Peachtree Corners Magazine - August / September 2022 by Peachtree Corners Magazine

INSIDE: Multi-Use Development Overview

OFFICIAL CITY NEWS ►

PEACHTREE CORNERS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE 22 ■ LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

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LOCAL COMPANY, FUSUS, TO ENHANCE CRIME PREVENTION HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH P16 & 68

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Celebrating 20 Years

of young at heart! Celebrate our 20-Year

commitment to extraordinary hospitality, service and care.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY

Peachtree Corners Company to Enhance Local Crime Prevention

DOING GOOD

PHOTO FEATURE

for Chillin’ in 42 ‘Scouting’ 38 Wholesome Peachtree Youth Corners Activities

FIRST UP

Local events

COMMUNITY

Seasons of Change — New Multi-Use Development Along Peachtree Parkway

NOURISH 10

ART & ENTERTAINMENT

PTC Anchors ATL Unlocked Event

Local Author Spotlight: Ellie Raine’s Successful Story in Self-Publishing

A Little Italy in Peachtree Corners Makes Extending an Olive Branch a Symbol of Health 30 City and Business Association Work Together for Community Success

In the Beginning…

All My Rowdy Friends

KNOWLEDGE

Emmy Award Winning Filmmaker Calls Peachtree Corners Home

BUSINESS

MOVE

ART & ENTERTAINMENT

More than a Taco

COMMUNITY Embracing Multiple Cultures: Hispanic Heritage Month

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

ABOUT THE COVER Chris Lindenau is the CEO of Fusus headquartered in the city he lives in, Peachtree Corners. Photography by George Hunter.

The Secret to Israel’s Start-up Ecosystems Success Through the Eyes of a PTC Local

Fun with Science

Expand Your Kids’ Knowledge with Great Field Trips

OFFICIAL CITY PAGES

PEACHTREE CORNERS The official city news and updates

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

PEACHTREECORNERS EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY EDITOR EMERITUS

KATHY DEAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE RICO FIGLIOLINI

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

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.

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.

Publisher & Executive Editor

RITA FIGLIOLINI

KATHY DEAN

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!

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.

Editorial Consultant

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS

Contributing Editor

Editor Emeritus

julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

JULIE DAVIS

PATRIZIA WINSPER

Account Executive

Writer

HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR

GEORGE HUNTER

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 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.

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.

Graphic Designer

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

PEACHTREECORNERS

KAREN HUPPERTZ

Photographer

TRACEY RICE

Writer

Karen Huppertz is a freelance journalist with the AJC, content writer and volunteer with the International Dyslexia Association. When not posting gardening images or writing to meet a deadline, she is advocating for individuals struggling to learn to read.

PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. P. O. BOX 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

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.

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.

IVY CLARKE Writer

Ivy Clarke is a writer, editor and artist currently studying English literature, creative writing and art at Mercer University. She also writes and edits for The Mercer Cluster, The Dulcimer, Macon Magazine and Mercer University Press.

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. August/September 2022 issue Volume 4 Number 22 ©2022 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

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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www.evremodelinginc.com

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

FIRST UP

EVENTS Forum Fit Wednesdays, August 3 through October 26. 6-7 p.m. The Forum August, space between Aomi and Soma Intimates September and October, under the clock tower 5155 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 theforumonpeachtree.com Admission is free; no registration required. A weekly fitness session is led by Club Pilates. Each class combines strength conditioning, cardio and mindfulness. For every class completed, earn a loyalty stamp; collect five and receive exclusive swag. Be sure to bring a yoga mat.

Trains, Trucks & Tractors Friday-Sunday, August 5-7 Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.4 p.m., and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth 30096 770-476-2013, train-museum.org Museum admission is Adults, $18: seniors (65+), $15; kids ages 2-12, $12 Visitors will see a range of

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do antique tractors and vehicles not generally on display at the museum during the Trains, Trucks & Tractors special event. Musical guests include Harm’s Way on Friday, Blackfoot Daisy on Saturday, and Andy and Amanda on Sunday. On Saturday, the museum will offer a limited number of cab rides on its restored Southern Railways EMD E8a #6901. Advance tickets are required for the cab rides. There will also be wagon rides (for a small donation) and food available for purchase. Food vendors include Bill’s Grills on Wheels on Friday and Saturda y, and Cassie’s Kitchen on Sunday. Please note that visiting exhibits arrive and depart at different times throughout the event, and event offerings are contingent upon the weather. Check out the website for additional events, like the Georgia Cool Cruisers Car Show on September 3, and the 2022 Steak Cook Off on September 10.

Friday Night Live Fridays, August 5 through October 28. 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Forum on Peachtree Parkway 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 theforumonpeachtree.com Admission is free. Groove into the weekend with live music by local artists. August performer schedule below; September and October performers TBA. Coolers and outside beverages Bring your own tailgate chairs. Drinks available for purchase that the Ted’s Montana Grill onsite pop-up bar. Outside coolers and beverages are not permitted, but takeout from onsite restaurants is encouraged ■ August 5: James and Julia ■ August 12: Hughes Taylor Trio ■ August 19: Chris Cauley ■ August 26: The Bourbon Brothers

Peachtree Farm Stand Saturdays, August 6, 13 and 20. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Peachtree Farm 356 Research Ct., Peachtree Corners 30092 770-366-9589, peachtreefarm.org Peachtree Farm Stand is opening at a new location. A nonprofit that provides jobs and training to adults with disabilities, Peachtree Farm provides fresh tomatoes, peaches, corn and more.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Light Up the Corners

Blended and Blessed Wednesdays, August 10 through October 5. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Light Up the Corners Glow Run & Twilight Trot

Peachtree Corners Baptist Church

Saturday, August 20. 6-11 p.m.

4480 Peachtree Corners Circle, Classroom D-302, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-448-1313, pcbchurch.org/ events/blended Admission is free. Registration is requested.

1K Twilight Trot starts 8 p.m.; 4-Mile Run starts at 8:30 p.m.

This group is for anyone leading a blended family. Using a curriculum created by stepfamily expert Ron L. Deal, participants will learn to apply the seven fundamental steps to blended family success and share practical, realistic solutions to the issues you face as a blended or stepfamily. Join at any time. Each meeting covers a specific topic and is self-contained. Childcare is provided. Email the Children’s Minister, Susan Rutledge, at susan.rutledge@pcbchurch.org to register for childcare.

Peachtree Corners Photography Club Group Meet Up Thursdays, August 11, September 8, October 13. 6:45-8:15 p.m. Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 pcphotoclub.org Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at Atlanta Tech Park and/or online. Photographers of all skill levels are invited to arrive at 6:15 p.m. for fellowship and social time.

peachtreecornerslife

Awards and after-party, 9-11 p.m. The Forum 5155 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 lightupthecorners.com Admission is free to spectators. Participant registration, August 1-18, is $40; August 19 & 20, $45. Discounts are available for teams. The eighth annual Light UP the Corners has two events, a 4-Mile Run and 1K Twilight Trot. The races are less about how fast you are and more about much fun you’ll have. Blinking lights illuminate the course and participants carry glow sticks and wear glow necklaces and other glow bling to light up the course. All proceeds benefit less fortunate children and families in the community by giving them the chance to participate in programs and activities at the Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA. Prizes will be awarded to several of the participants who glow, flash and sparkle the most.

Carnival of the Animals Saturday, August 27. 7-8:30 p.m. Family Life Center, Simpsonwood UMC 4500 Jones Bridge Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092 Reservations and info, eventcreate. com/e/carnivaloftheanimals Donate at carnivaloftheanimalsdonate.com. Admission is free; donations are welcome. peachtreecornerslife

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

23: Shredding and Recycle Event at City Hall 9am-12pm

7: Flicks on the Green - Racing Stripes 14: Night Music - CBDB The Tony Howard Show 21: Sports on the Screen 28: Summer Concert Series - Spin Doctors 30: Memorial Day Ceremony

4: Flicks on the Green - Black Panther 11: Night Music - Blair Crimmins & the Hookers 18: Kids Event 2pm-5pm 25: Summer Concert Series Brotherhood (Doobie Brothers Tribute)

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

1-3: Peachtree Corners Festival 2: Flicks on the Green - Big Hero Six 9: Night Music - Sailing to Denver 16: Bark at the Park 23: Sports on the Screen 30: Summer Concert Series Everclear

6: Flicks on the Green Megamind 13: Night Music - Wildflowers (Tom Petty Tribute) 8pm 20: Light Up the Corners Run 20: Sports on the Screen 27: Summer Concert Series Stayin Alive (Bee Gees Tribute)

3: Flicks on the Green - Captain America 10: Night Music - The Artisanals 17: Sports on the Screen 24: Summer Concert Series Vertical Horizon

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

1: Flicks on the Green - Lego Batman Movie 8: Night Music 10th Anniversary Concert - Marcy Playground 15: Sports on the Screen 22: Summer Concert Series - The Purple Xperience (Prince Tribute) 29: 2nd Annual PTC Decathlon 29: Sports on the Screen

5: Sports on the Screen 11: Veterans Day Ceremony 12: Sports on the Screen 19: Sports on the Screen 26: Sports on the Screen

1: Holiday Glow 6pm-8pm 3: Sports on the Screen 10: Sports on the Screen

TIMES Flicks on the Green: 7pm Night Music: 7pm (Aug 13 8pm) Summer Concert Series: 7pm

Yoga on the Green (by Sun Dragon Yoga): Tues 8am (May-Sep) CrossFit (by PPG CrossFit): Thurs 10am (May-Sep) Cornhole ATL League: Wed 6:30pm (Jan-Oct)

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

This family-friendly concert is divided into musical sections, each representing an animal or group of animals. The narration is based on poems by Ogden Nash. The orchestra is made up of extraordinarily gifted young instrumentalists and, in Act II, songs from various Broadway and film productions will be performed by talented vocalists. Reservations are required.

On Golden Pond September 9-25 Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross 30071 404-919-4022, lionhearttheatre.org Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors/students. A classic comedy/drama, On Golden Pond centers around love and family. Compelling characters and witty dialogue make the story entertaining as well as inspirational. On Golden Pond debuted on Broadway and became an Academy Award winning film.

JapanFest Atlanta Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18 Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gas South Convention Center 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth 30097 japanfest.org Tickets are $15 until Sept 16; on the day of the event, $18. Two-day ticket (available before the day of the event only) are $20, and parking is $5. Explore Japanese culture with performances, vendors and foods. Japanese Businesses in Georgia (JBig) will showcase Japanese companies in the area.

Town Green Calendar 5140 Town Center Boulevard Peachtree Corners 30092 peachtreecornersga.gov

Important Note: All city events are subject to postponement or cancellation due to current health and safety concerns, as well as other mitigating factors. Please check the city website and calendar for updates and COVID protocols. If reservations, masks and other precautions are required, the city’s website will include all necessary information at least one week before the event. Check peachtreecornersga.gov. For the safety and convenience of all guests the following items are prohibited on the Town Green: glass containers; fires or barbecue grills; hard-sided or large coolers; large or over-sized bags/backpacks, luggage, or duffel bags; fireworks or sparklers; smoking, vaping or use of any tobacco products; illegal substances or drugs; pets or animals, with the exception of service animals; flying objects, including but not limited to sports balls, flying discs, beach, balls or drones; tents, tables or staking. No items can be affixed to any park infrastructure.

2nd Annual Peachtree Corners Decathlon Registration Open Register now for the decathlon on Saturday, October 29 peachtreecornersga.gov/265/ PTC-Decathlon-2022 Email Alex Wright at awright@peachtreecornersga.gov with questions. Registration fee is $20 and includes t-shirt. Men and women ages 18+ are invited to register for the second annual Peachtree Corners Decathlon to be held on the Town Green Path to Fitness. Sixty participants will compete in 10 events, including wall climb, sandbag carry, rope climb and run. Awards will be presented in several categories.

Fall Cornhole League Registration open through August 22. Play starts Wednesday, August 31. cornholeatl.leaguelab.com/ league/52593/details, info@cornholeatl.com CornholeATL, Georgia’s largest and fastest growing cornhole league, is back at Peachtree Corners Town Center for seven weeks of fun this autumn. The fall league offers four different divisions of play to accommodate all levels. Registration required.

CrossFit at the Green Thursdays through September 29. 10-11 a.m.

Captain America, the Marvel superhero. He must stop the Red Skull’s plan for world domination.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

August 4, 11, 18 and 25. September 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Get fit with a free workout offered by Terrance Fox with CrossFit PPG. Everyone is invited, regardless of age or fitness level. This program relies on movements performed at high intensity to achieve a health and fitness level that sustains any lifestyle.

Yoga on the Green Tuesdays through September 27. 8-9 a.m. August 9, 16, 23 and 30. September 6, 13, 20 and 27. Taught by David Penn from Sun Dragon Yoga, this free yoga class will help with flexibility and balance. Bring water (no glass containers), a small towel or two, and a mat if you have one; be sure to wear comfortable clothes.

Flicks on the Green Saturdays, August 6, September 3 and October 1. 7-9 p.m. Admission is free. Bring the family, along with a cooler and blanket, to enjoy a movie on the Green. August 6: Megamind — A highly intelligent supervillain, Megamind, is depressed after he finally defeats Metro Man, his nemesis, so he creates a new superhero. Things go awry when the new “hero” becomes a bigger threat than Megamind ever was. September 3: Captain America: The First Avenger — During World War II, Steve Rogers is transformed from a frail man into

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October 1: Lego Batman — In this computer-generated superhero comedy, Batman needs to overcome his fear of losing his friends to stop the Joker’s evil plans.

Night Music Saturdays, August 13, September 10 and October 8. 7 p.m. Admission is free. Every month through October, bands and tribute take to the stage on Town Green. August 13: The Wildflowers — The Wildflowers are America’s premier Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers tribute band. With a passion for Petty’s music, they bring music lovers the songs they adore. Be sure to go to peachtreecornersga.gov and click on the calendar for details. September 10: The Artisanals! with Rosey — The Artisanals! are missionaries of rock and roll that bring their explosive live show to stages around the country. Rosey is a singer-songwriter and rock ‘n roll soul siren who has toured with Morcheeba and Melissa Etheridge. October 8: Anniversary Celebration with Marcy Playground — 90s alternative rockers Marcy Playground are most known for their 1997 platinum album that included the hit “Sex and Candy,” but they also have noted songs on soundtracks for movies such as Cruel Intentions and Antitrust.

Sports on the Screen Saturdays, August 20, 7:20 p.m. September 17 and October 15, time TBD. Admission is free. Bring friends and a loaded cooler to enjoy sports on the Town Green screen. August 20 — Braves vs Astros September 17 — TBD October 15 — UGA vs Vanderbilt

PTC Summer Concert Series Saturdays, August 27 and September 24. 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. Head over to Town Green on the last Saturday of the month for good times and great music.

peachtreecornerslife

August 27: Stayin’ Alive with the Mike Veal Band — The quintessential tribute band to the Bee Gees, Stayin’ Alive giving audiences the sights and sounds of a full Bee Gees playlist with hits like “How Deep Is Your Love” and “Jive Talkin’.” The Mike Veal Band opens the show with a hot combination of blues, rock, funk and fun.

September 24: Vertical Horizon with All the Locals — Vertical Horizon’s song “Everything You Want” sold over two million copies and became the most played single of 2000. Today’s Vertical Horizon has evolved and added to their sonic tapestry. The Atlanta-based band All the Locals kicks off the evening at 7 p.m.

Business Organizations and Events Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092

470-482-1800, atlantatechpark.com ATL Unlocked Thursday, September 22. 5-7 p.m.

Gwinnett County Parks gwinnettcounty.com

Sing & Shake

Scavenger ART Hunt

Saturday, August 20, 2-4 p.m.

Saturday, September 17. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct.. Norcross 30093 bit.ly/SIngandShake, Call 678-225-5400 for registration assistance. Admission is $7 for residents, $14 for non-residents. A celebration of good times, Sing & Shake invites people aged 50 and up to dance to some of their favorite tunes. Participants are welcome to bring their own refreshments or purchase some for a small fee.

Kids Night: Pizza and Puzzles Fridays, August 26 and September 23. 5:30-8:30 p.m. One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross 30093 bit.ly/PizzaAndPuzzles, 678-225-5400 Admission is $12 for residents, $24 for non-residents Kids from 7 to 12 gather to share their favorite games with friend for a night of pizza and fun.

Family Lip-Sync Battle Friday, September 16. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross 30093 678-277-0860 Admission is free for competitors; fee is $6. Please submit music by September 7. The whole family, all ages, is invited to battle it out for the best “band.” Light refreshments are available, and prizes will be awarded to winners.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 4758 South Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners 30071 678-277-0920 Enjoy a scavenger hunt with an artistic twist. Participants are invited to stop by the Rec Center to get a list of items to gather; bring them back to get the rest of the things needed to build crafty creations at home.

Reservations required. atlantatechpark.com/product/atlunlocked-event-ticket/ ATL Unlocked brings together creators, innovators, founders and entrepreneurs so they can thrive. Learn more about what Atlanta Tech Park offers and why Peachtree Corners is the #1 Smart City in the country.

Peachtree Corners Business Association 4989 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 215, Peachtree Corners 30092 678-969-3385, peachtreecornersba.com

Shorty Howell Park 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth 30096 678-277-0900 Experience Hispanic history and culture and while enjoying music and concessions.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration Friday, September 30. 5:30-7:30 p.m. One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross 30093 678-225-5400 Admission is $8 for residents, $16 for non-residents. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural music, games, crafts, swag bags, performance and light refreshments.

Thursday, September 22. 5:30-8 p.m. Atlanta Marriott Peachtree Corners, 475 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 Registration is $50. Early registration, before August 19, is $40 for members, $45 for guests. Sponsorships are available at various levels. Peachtree Corners Business Association hosts its annual charity event to raise money for three outstanding organizations: Corners Outreach, Paint Gwinnett Pink 5K and A. Worley Brown Boys & Girls Club. The festivities include live music, tailgating cuisine, a live auction and a silent auction.

Rotary Club of Peachtree Corners Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center

PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup

10 College St., Norcross 30071 770-330-7477, peachtreecornersrotary.org Rotary Club Meetings

Hispanic Heritage Fiesta Saturday, September 24. 12-4 p.m.

PCBA Celebrating 10 Years & Touchdowns Charity Party

Mondays, August 8, 15, 22 and 29; September 12, 19 and 26; and October 3. 12-1 p.m.

Tuesdays, August 9. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners 30092 Free admission for PCBA members and their guests. Please register online since space is limited. Connect over coffee on the second Tuesday of the month and have conversations with other PCBA members and business professionals who want to share business in a positive atmosphere. Business cards will be shared with all attendees.

Some meetings welcome special guests. On August 29, State Representative Mary Robichaux, D-Peachtree Corners, will speak about her re-election race.

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Office in Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 470-482-1899, southwestgwinnettchamber.com

PCBA Lunch Club Wednesday, August 17. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. PCBA members are encouraged to join the PCBA lunch club to enjoy a great meal, at a 15% discount, while networking with other PCBA members. Register online and bring your confirmation email to the restaurant on the day of the lunch.

SWGC Coffee Connections Fridays, August 12, 19 and 26. Free admission for SWGC members and visitors. Coffee and conversation with local business professionals is the perfect way to start Friday morning. Join the Southwest Gwinnett

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Chamber of Commerce for this networking event created to expand professional relationships. Meet SWGC members and share business cards with all attendees. The meetings are held in the large meeting space behind the SWGC office at Atlanta Tech Park.

31 to reserve a spot. Kimberly Beaudin, CEO of the College Football Hall of Fame, will speak at the breakfast; the program will start at 8 a.m. Admission includes breakfast, coffee and juice.

Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-978-5154 | gwinnettpl.org

First Friday Breakfast with Kimberly Beaudin

Sew Your Own Pencil Pouch

by listening to a bilingual story time featuring a Vox Book.

Friday, September 2. 7:30-9 a.m.

Monday, August 8, 6p.m.

Admission is $28 for members and $35 for non-members. Register before noon on August

Get ready for back to school by making your own pencil pouch at the library. Registration required.

Homemade Tortilla Demo

American Citizenship Clinics at Gwinnett County Public Library Friday, August 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Lilburn Branch, 4817 Church St., Lilburn 30047 Pre-register at gwinnettpl.libnet.info/event/6849028 Friday, September 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Duluth Branch, 3180 Main St., Duluth 30096 Pre-register at gwinnettpl.libnet.info/event/6957311 Friday, November 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Lawrenceville Branch, 1001 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville 30046

Great Toilet Paper Shortage: Causes and Consequences Saturday, August 13, 2 p.m. Celebrate National Toilet Paper Day by learning about the causes of the great toilet paper shortage of 2020. Demonstrate the consequences of substituting toilet paper with other items.

Weekend Family Storytime

gwinnettpl.org

Saturday, August 20, 10:30 a.m.

This year, the Gwinnett County Public Library is holding three Citizenship Clinics in partnership with Asian Americans Advancing Justice — Atlanta (AAAJ — Atlanta). These clinics provide free assistance with the preparedness of the naturalization form for citizenship. This is a hybrid program with pre-registration online and an in-person legal review for those who qualify. The live application for August is available at: https:// docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdVOb-q-GKJt9uZs3p_x6FBzmXTMx5Yf_b8pPOVzF3Gt9eYrg/viewform. Or scan the QR CODE

Stop in for a special story time for ages 3-5.

Applicants who complete the pre-registration form and qualify will meet with an AAAJ — Atlanta legal representative for a naturalization application review and legal assistance. For questions and assistance, contact AAAJ at 404-890-5655. Eligibility Requirements: ■ Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. ■ Be a permanent resident (have a “Green Card”) for at least 5 years or 3 years if you adjusted through marriage. ■ Show that you have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you apply. ■ Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years. ■ Show that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years. ■

Be able to read, write and speak basic English.

■

Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).

■

Be a person of good moral character.

Accessibility for Seniors

Thursday, September 15, 1 p.m. Learn how to make homemade tortillas.

Banned Books Week Trivia Saturday, September 24, 2 p.m. Wrap up Banned Books Week by testing your knowledge of banned and challenged books.

Tea Blending for Stress Relief Monday, September 26, 6 p.m. Sample different teas and create a personalized blend while learning about tea’s benefits.

Experience Oobleck Saturday, October 15 at 2 p.m.

Thursday, August 25, 1 p.m. Do you or someone you know experience a challenge when reading standard print or getting to the library? This show and tell teaches about the resources available through the library to help resolve these challenges.

Create Your Own Board Game

Experience oobleck— a substance that breaks the laws of science!

Driver’s License Practice Exam Monday, October 17 at 6 p.m. Are you studying to get your driver’s license? Take a practice exam and test your knowledge.

Saturday, September 3, 2 p.m. Demonstrate critical thinking skills and creativity by creating your own board game.

Bilingual Storytime with a Vox Book Saturday, September 10, 10:30 a.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

SEPTEMBER 9 - 25 FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM

By Ernest Thompson

Directed by Scott Rousseau

SUNDAY AT 2 PM

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10 College Street Norcross, GA 30071

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Children 6 & under Free!

Gas South Convention Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth Live Music & Dance Performances Martial Arts & Cultural Workshops Japanese Food & Beer Garden Children's Games & More!

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Saturday, September 17, time TBA Mitchell Road and Price Place, Norcross 30071 Go to norcrossga.net and check the Events Calendar for updated information.

678-225-5400, GwinnettParks.com Admission is $8 for residents, $16 for non-residents. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural music, games, crafts, swag bags, performance and light refreshments.

rent art from Latin American artists and discover how visual art has been used to advocate for social and political justice.

Homemade Tortilla Demo Thursday, September 15, 1 p.m.

The City of Norcross celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month and invites the community to immerse in music, foods and traditions from a variety of Hispanic countries around the world.

Hispanic Heritage Month Events with Gwinnett County Public Library

Hispanic Heritage Fiesta

Bilingual Storytime with a Vox Book

Peachtree Corners Branch, 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-978-5154, gwinnettpl.org Learn how to make homemade tortillas.

Trazando tus raices: Genealogia

Saturday, September 24. 12-4 p.m.

Saturday, September 10, 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, September 29, 7 p.m.

Shorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth 30096

Peachtree Corners Branch, 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092

Norcross Branch, 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross 30071

678-277-0900, GwinnettParks.com Experience Hispanic history and culture and while enjoying music and concessions.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration Friday, September 30. 5:30-7:30 p.m. One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross 30093

770-978-5154, gwinnettpl.org Listen to a bilingual story time featuring a Vox Book.

Latin American Art for Hispanic Heritage Month Thursday, September 15, 5 p.m. Norcross Branch, 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross 30071 770-978-5154, gwinnettpl.org Learn about art history and cur-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

770-978-5154, gwinnettpl.org Se recomienda registrarse. Este programa será en persona. Registration is recommended. This program will be in-person. Celebra el mes de la herencia hispana descubriendo tus antepasados y familiares latinos. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning how to search for your Latino family and ancestors. Aprende a superar los desafíos de investigar la genealogía latina a través de un recurso digital de genealogía disponible en la biblioteca. Este programa sera presentado por nuestra bibliotecaria, Lenin Argueta. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning how to trace your roots using one of the library’s genealogy digital resources. This program will be presented by our Library Associate, Lenin Argueta.

peachtreecornerslife

The Quinceañera: More than a Tradition Saturday, October 15, 12:30-2 p.m. Norcross Branch, 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross 30071 770-978-5154, gwinnettpl.org The popular Quinceañera party is a staple in Latin American traditions. Come and learn about the history behind this tradition and admire the artwork of Quinceañera dresses art designed by some of our community members. This program is for the Gwinnett community to learn about and celebrate our multicultural traditions in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The Norcross community has a large Spanish-speaking community and GCPL invites them to share their creative designs of a Quinceañera dress as we all learn about the history and the art behind such a popular Hispanic tradition. The entire community is invited to join in celebrating, not just our diverse community, but also the things we all have in common: family and cultural traditions.

Authors & Dessert in Duluth Thursday, October 20, 7:30 p.m. Duluth Branch, 3180 Main St., Duluth 30096 Author Marisela Martinez-Cola discusses her book “The Bricks before Brown: The Chinese American, Native American, and Mexican Americans’ Struggle for Educational Equality” — a look at the diverse history of litigation that preceded Brown v. Board of Education.

peachtreecornerslife

FUN LOOK AT ALL THE

WE HAD THIS

SUMMER! As we head into the school year, let’s take a look back at all of the fun kids and teens had with Gwinnett County Public Library’s Youth Services! Learn more about Youth Services and all of our library events at gwinnettpl.org.

START THE SCHOOL YEAR

STRONG! As students head back to school, some new subjects may be difficult or confusing. Don’t wait to consider some tutoring to get them up to speed. At Gwinnett County Public Library we offer a range of tutoring services for FREE. Students can meet with a library staff member at the branch or online. We also offer all sorts of tutoring with our partner, Tutor.com. Get details at gwinnettpl.org. August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

COVER STORY

…We’re not just talking about being able to solve crime faster, we’re talking about possibly interdicting, actually responding to an incident, in real time. Chris Lindenau, CEO, Fusus

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Company to Enhance Local Crime Prevention

Fusus, a leader in crime-tracking technology, has joined with local law enforcement to better utilize community assets.

A By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by George Hunter

n attempted carjacking on July 10 resulted in the victim being shot and killed by the suspects. It has left the people of Peachtree Corners feeling devastated that such a crime could happen in the peaceful bedroom community. As seemingly “big city” mayhem is making its way to the suburbs, authorities are seeking ways to reverse the trend.

One such solution is new technology that helps speed up police investigations. Peachtree Corners-based Fusus has created a platform in which cameras owned by any entity, public or private, from any manufacturer, can be part of a greater system that the police department can gain access to. This allows law enforcement to investigate, monitor criminal activity and prosecute criminals more efficiently.

Left, Chris Lindenau Above, an image taken at a recent visit to Oxford, AL RTCC. The Oxford Police Department utilizes Fusus Technology. (Courtesy of Fusus)

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Protecting people and privacy In a recent interview on the Peachtree Corners Life podcast, Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson explained that the city has signed a deal with Fusus to utilize that technology right here. “The owners of each of these cameras can voluntarily enroll their camera in two different levels,” said Johnson. “The first is merely to register your camera by telling the police department, again using the Fusus platform, that ‘I have a camera. This is my

He went on to explain that police will contact the homeowner by phone or email and ask for access to the registered camera during a specific period of time. If the resident is agreeable, Fusus can quickly download the data into the cloud and the police have access to it immediately. Any time police want access to video, they have to get the owner’s permission. It goes to the Fusus platform, which then gives access to the police. At no time does law enforcement have access to the individual’s person-

Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson

name. Here’s my contact information.’ …And that’s all it is. That is just registration. There’s no access or anything.” If an incident occurs and police need access to video footage quickly, they can look at a location and know that Joe Smith has a video doorbell camera there. “And why that’s important just at the most basic level is, without knowing that there’s a doorbell camera nearby, police officers then have to canvass the neighborhood and potentially go door to door and ask, ‘Do you have a camera? And if so, can we take a look at the video feed? Do you store the data, and can we take a look at it for a particular timeframe that we’re interested in?’” said Johnson. “That takes time, and oftentimes when investigating a crime, time is not your friend.”

al data. “That’s a very important point if you do this. And we really encourage people to do this, because all you’re doing is letting police know that at your location, you have a camera and you are willing to entertain, on a case-by-case basis, whether you would like to push them historical video feed over a period of time,” said Johnson. That’s the basic level, but there is a more advanced level that is set up for commercial establishments. Not only is the camera registered, but police have access to the video in real time. “It’s not like the police are in a room watching the camera. But with real time, they can pull historical data from the camera whenever they want,” said Johnson. He gave an example that the

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

owner of a shopping center that houses Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target and Publix has cameras on the buildings and in the parking lot and may want Gwinnett Police to have access to them so that if there’s a rash of car break-ins in the parking lot, the police can pull the data immediately. The police don’t have to contact the owner for permission in that case.

The man behind the platform Although Fusus is right here in Peachtree Corners, its reputation is nationwide. Law enforcement agencies from several cities and counties in California, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Winston-Salem and, locally, in Cobb County and the City of Atlanta have endorsed the company’s Real-Time Crime Center platform. More than 120 cities and counties around the country are already connected through Fusus. In a podcast of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini spoke with Fusus CEO Chris Lindenau. They discussed the company’s long-term vision regarding public safety, especially as it relates to public-private partnerships, how it will roll out the technology in Peachtree Corners and why Fusus chose to set up the corporate headquarters here. Lindenau founded his company with a focus on developing advanced Real-Time Crime Center capabilities for law enforcement and public safety agencies. He has 14 years of experience with launching and growing video surveillance and software technology companies in the public safety, commercial and defense markets. A native of Columbia, Maryland, Lindenau holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the United States Naval Academy and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Georgia Institute of Technology. During his six years on active duty as a Navy diver, Search and Rescue swimmer, and as a supply officer, he was deployed to the Middle East to assist the U.S. effort during Operation Enduring Freedom and the global war on terrorism. After the military, Lindenau served as the chief peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

revenue officer for Utility Inc., a manufacturer of hardware and software solutions for mobile connectivity, body camera and in-vehicle video systems for first responders and the director of global sales and marketing for Moog Sensor and Surveillance Systems, a division of the company’s space and defense group. He currently resides in Peachtree Corners with his wife Rachel and five children.

A tool for stopping crime One misconception about Fusus is that the system is only good for solving crimes after they’ve happened. With real-time technology, it is possible to respond to an incident in progress. “I was with an agency the other day, and they used Fusus in an urban area,” said Lindenau. “They tracked a homicide suspect as they went from camera to camera to camera. And then they followed that homicide suspect as they exited their vehicle into a business. And then through that business and the request for video from that business, they were able to identify the facial image of that suspect. …We’re not just talking about being able to solve crime faster, we’re talking about possibly interdicting, actually responding to an incident, in real time.” He explained that police refer to the first 48 hours of a crime — especially a homicide — as the “golden hours.” Obtaining evidence and information in those first 48 hours allows for the highest probability of solving the crime. “Well, let’s talk about the first 48 minutes,” said Lindenau. “Think about how much we can do in real time, if information is shared appropriately while, of course, also maintaining people’s right to privacy.”

Connect Peachtree Corners Locally, the Fusus program is called Connect Peachtree Corners. Not only are business owners able to join into the network or the cloud with other private companies and city cameras, but home residents can add their security cameras and Ring cameras peachtreecornerslife

— all the cameras that might be facing outward to roads and public byways. “If something happened in the neighborhood, police could know exactly where [video information] is, versus canvassing 100 homes to find out if any of them had a camera and if any of them are working,” Lindenau explained. But, he stressed, that’s where private citizens’ commitment ends. “The other component which is important to note is that we’re not talking about cameras inside people’s living rooms; we’re not talking about doorbell cameras facing off the side of someone’s home facing a neighbor’s home. “We’re really talking about major thoroughfares, parks, public areas, areas that are already under surveillance, where the officer may, in the past, had to physically go to that location to acquire video. Now they have the ability to use that data in real time,” he said. With ConnectPeachtreeCorners.org, Fusus plans to enroll willing participants in the public-private partnership. The program is really targeted towards the business community, Lindenau said. “In phase one, and at least for the foreseeable future, this is really not to bring homeowners’ Ring doorbell cameras into the network. It is really more designed for Peachtree Parkway, Spalding, the businesses that kind of line those roads,” he added. The city isn’t just relying on businesses and residents for surveillance. There are about 80 cameras at Town Center and officials have approved funding to add more throughout the city. “There are a bunch of cameras going down Peachtree Parkway and other intersections. And there are even cameras the city is willing to pay for and put on outside streets, like near subdivisions and such,” said Lindenau.

Creating collaboration Another important aspect of the Fusus system is that it allows multiple jurisdictions to share information seamlessly. If a crime is committed in Gwinnett County and the suspect

flees to Fulton County or DeKalb County, it could take a lot of time to share data and evidence with the other law enforcement officials. “The jurisdiction that [the suspect] lives in may be different from the jurisdiction that they commit the crime in. For years and years and years, technology was siloed. Camera A didn’t speak to software B, or software system A did not speak to software system B,” said Lindenau. “What the Fusus system has done is eliminated that. We basically created bridges between all these disparate systems so that, among other things, law enforcement agencies can have inter-department collaboration. They call that mutual aid.” He pointed out that when it comes to catching criminals or responding to a life safety situation, it may be that the closest available law enforcement or emergency resource is actually in a neighboring jurisdiction, and “that’s where this inter-agency collaboration through Fusus is so powerful.”

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Perfectly at home in Peachtree Corners Creating that level of technology and keeping it cutting edge doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes talent and resources. That’s why locating the company to Peachtree Corners was a no-brainer for Lindenau. “What I really love about Peachtree Corners is, first off, it’s a very friendly community. The mayor and the city manager, Mike and Brian, they were very supportive of us setting up shop here,” said Lindenau. “It’s also a very technologically forward leaning city. …This Silicon Orchard is the East Coast equivalent of Silicon Valley. …So if you think about where you want to be as a technology company, and where a wealth of talent will potentially locate themselves, well, Peachtree Corners is a great place.” To learn more about the Connect Peachtree Corners program and/or to register, go to ConnectPeachtreeCorners.org. ■

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BUSINESS

Seasons of Change By this time next year, the local landscape will have a new look if the bevy of development proposals receive City Council approval.

There is nothing permanent except change. — Heraclitus

ness owners and stakeholders of Peachtree Corners.

hese words from a Greek philosopher who died more than 1,500 years ago ring as true now as they did then. And nobody knows that better than the residents, busi-

Pay attention and speak up

By Arlinda Smith Broady

In his most recent newsletter, City Councilman Eric Christ pointed out that change in the city that just celebrated its 10th birthday is coming in droves. “It’s summertime and many people are vacationing, going to the pool — in general paying less attention than normal to events around them,” Christ wrote. “I would encourage you to pay attention this summer as the combined impact of the proposed [mixed-use developments] MUDs (and there are most certainly even more coming that we don’t know about yet) will have

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

a profound impact on the future direction of our community.” During a recent Peachtree Corners Life podcast, Christ talked about how he keeps up with social media, and when misinformation is being shared, he often weighs in to set the record straight. “Everybody is entitled to their own opinion about whether a particular project is beneficial to the city. But I think it’s important that …everybody has the facts,” he said. “And so, if we’re on Nextdoor, on Facebook — setting aside whether what they’re building is good or bad — if it’s not accurate, …on the size … or the number of units being developed, you often see me chime in and provide the facts.” peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Christ said that during his first year in office, he was surprised that so many people he spoke to had no idea about items coming before the City Council. “People need to, I want them to, know things are being voted on. Because if …no one shows up for a public hearing, I guess there are two …potential reasons,” he said. “One is no one politically cares about that particular development, they know it’s O.K., or they do care, but they didn’t know about the meeting.” He added that City Council doesn’t always have the best ideas, and hearing from the community members is an important part of the process. peachtreecornerslife

Info on upcoming project requests “We’re seeing a lot of requests right now in the city to change from various types of commercial zoning to what’s called mixed-use development. And under our ordinance, mixed-use requires three or more different kinds of uses,” said Christ. Mixed-use zoning can include residential, whereas commercial zoning does not. With housing shortages across the country,

developers are looking for solutions like what’s going on up and down Peachtree Parkway or on Holcomb Bridge Road. They come up with lots of ideas for lots of different types of uses. But residents can’t live where it’s zoned commercial. It’s allowed to build a hotel on commercial property, but not a permanent residency. “That’s why we’re seeing a lot of requests for residential developments,” he said. Like most cities, Peachtree Corners has a Planning Commission comprised of members appointed by the City Council. They act as an additional filter of sorts, by making recommendations to City Council. Christ talked about several major projects on the agenda for July.

The Forum at Peachtree Corners The Forum has a mixed-use request to rezone 44 acres from commercial to allow for new mixed-use development at 5131 through 5185 Peachtree Parkway. Owner North American Properties (NAP) wants to include a 381-unit apartment building, retail space, a hotel and additional parking to the existing 99,050 square feet of office space and to reconfigure the existing 415,350 square-foot shopping center.

The Forum as imagined by North American Properties (NAP) (renderings from the current rezoning request) Left and top renderings of proposed multi-family units along Peachtree Parkway and the entrance. Above, a site plan that shows the layout of the proposed multi-family and hotel. Right, City Councilman Eric Christ

The Planning Commission recommended approval with certain conditions including: ■ The building permit for the apartments won’t be issued until the permit for the hotel is issued. ■ The developer must build a pedestrian bridge from the Peachtree Parkway Bridge to the hotel. ■ The developer must build a multi-use trail system through the property. ■ Buildings can’t be higher than 90 feet. Those located within 200 feet of existing residential proper-

ties can’t be higher than 50 feet. • There can be no drive-through businesses on the property. • Business hours are to be limited, from 7 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends, with the exception of coffee / bagel shops that may open 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day. “When staff researched this, they discovered that The Forum was … zoned light industrial back in the day. So, in the late 90s, it was converted into …a mid-level commercial, and they did include a condition that there would be no hotels,” said Christ. “So, North American Properties …has taken feedback from the community meeting and they’ve requested two changes. One is changing conditions to permit a hotel and the second is to rezone the 44 acres. That doesn’t actually mean that they’re going to redevelop every piece of that. That’s just how big it is. And they want to change its zoning from commercial to mixed-use, which is what the Town Center is zoned. So, [that includes] the restaurant and the retail and the movie theater and even the townhomes.”

Innovation Lofts The project called Innovation Lofts, also owned by North American Properties, has requested to add 4.4 acres to the existing 20.6acre Town Center mixed-use zoning district by rezoning 4.4 acres from commercial to mixed-use with an associated variance to allow for a new apartment building at 5246 Peachtree Parkway and 4936 Peachtree Corners Circle. The Planning Commission recommended to approve the request with certain conditions that include: ■ The site may be developed with up to 249 studio, one- and two-bedroom, multi-family units. ■ The developer must contribute $200,000 by Dec. 31 toward the construction of the Town Center Corners Connector Trail and other associated features in exchange for residential density credit. ■ The developer must construct a pedestrian bridge connecting its property to the Town Center. ■ The developer must provide sidewalk connectivity between all buildings and dedicated trails within the site and to all public streets adjacent to the site. ■ The property will have a resort-style swimming pool and courtyard, but no children’s playground equipment is allowed on the property. The apartments versus condo-

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Innovation Lofts

miniums question came up during a community meeting hosted by the United Peachtree Corners Civic Association. It’s obvious that under the previous owners, there were at least a dozen empty store fronts and North American Properties wants to build density on The Forum property. Popular opinion is that the residential with apartments has a better turnover, and that is a better for retail versus equity ownership. “Tim Perry [Managing Partner of North American Properties] is looking to create a vibrant retail restaurant shopping center and maintain it,” said Christ. “We sometimes get bored with the same restaurants. … With apartment turnover every two

or three years, you have new potential customers.”

Town Center Another Town Center rezoning request is for a mixed-use office and retail development. The request is to add 2.31 acres to the existing 20.6-acre Town Center MUD zoning district by rezoning the 2.31 acres from commercial to mixed-use to allow for a new office and ground floor retail development at 3847 Medlock Bridge Road and 5100 Peachtree Parkway. The rezoning also includes the existing Piedmont Bank property. The 5100 Peachtree Parkway

property is currently occupied by the bank with associated parking located at the southeast corner of the intersection of Peachtree Parkway and Medlock Bridge Road. The 3847 Medlock Bridge Road property is a vacant parcel located behind the bank at the corner of Medlock Bridge and Town Center Drive. The property is directly next to the Town Center development, which is already zoned for mixed-use development. The property was the subject of numerous past zoning cases. One was the rezoning in 2013 by the city to the current commercial district to allow for commercial / retail development. Previous requests for

apartments, a gas station with auto repair and office buildings were never constructed. The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions that include: ■ Retail and/or restaurant use must be located on the ground floor of the office building. ■ The remnants of the former driveway to the bank site along Medlock Bridge Road must be fully removed. The sidewalk must be returned to standard condition and the unimproved yard area must be landscaped.

Town Center, PIedmont Bank

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Left clockwise, Sun Court multiuse rendering, a typical unit, driveway entrance.

of coalesce more than it did in the past to where we’ve now started to see exactly where we are going to weave it through some of these developments. And as a result, we’re requiring some of them to have the trail be part of their property,” said Christ. “I think this trail system is going to come to life a lot quicker than we thought it could have even as recent as a year ago.”

Changes are inevitable, so make sure they’re positive

Change is one constant in the world. Peachtree Corners won’t remain static. However, considering one of the main reasons we became a city was to, at a minimum, maintain our existing ownership to rental split, I have felt it very important to ‘walk the walk’ when it comes to doing just that. Eric Christ, City Councilmember Sun Court A foreign limited partnership out of North Carolina, according to its Georgia business license, has requested to rezone 9.68 acres from light industrial to mixed-use development to allow for a new mixeduse development at 2 Sun Court. The Sun Court project will consist of an existing four-story office building, a new mixed-use apartment building which will contain 170 residential units, ground-floor retail space and an extension to the public trail system.

The Sun Court property currently consists of a large office building and associated surface parking located near the southeast corner of the intersection of Spalding Drive and Engineering Drive. The site has some wooded areas remaining along its periphery; however, the remainder of the site is developed with the office building and parking lots. Access points exist on Spalding Drive and Sun Court. The property does not include the International Charter Academy school located at the immediate corner of Spalding and Engineering.

The property is across Spalding Drive from the Intuitive Surgical corporate campus. Adjacent to the east along Spalding is the Peachtree Corners Post Office. To the south and west are additional Technology Park office park buildings. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request with conditions that include: ■ The property must retain the existing office building in its existing configuration, square footage and use. ■ A minimum of 4,935 square feet of retail and/or restaurant uses must be located on the ground floor of the apartment building. The entirety of the space must be occupied and operational (as evidenced by a business license) before a Certificate of Occupancy for the apartment building will be issued. ■ The trail must be completed before a Certificate of Occupancy for the apartment building will be issued. Ensuring that the trail system be completed has been a major concern of City Council. “We’ve become pretty bullish on that, you know, on the trail system. We are starting on our master plan of 11 plus miles of trails, …the exact location and how we do it is starting to really kind

At the end of the day, Christ reminds residents and businesses that Peachtree Corners can’t remain the same. “Change is one constant in the world. Peachtree Corners won’t remain static,” he said. “However, considering one of the main reasons we became a city was to, at a minimum, maintain our existing ownership to rental split, I have felt it very important to ‘walk the walk’ when it comes to doing just that.” He added that all the projects that have come before City Council have had their merits. “But ultimately, the ones I voted against I didn’t believe had favorable prospects for being a long-term value creator for our community,” said Christ in his newsletter. “Just because something will be better than what is there right now, doesn’t mean we should vote to approve something.” Similar sentiments were expressed by noted author Victor Hugo more than a century ago when he wrote, “Change your opinions, keep to your principles; change your leaves, keep intact your roots.” ■

Editor’s note: On Thursday, July 28, 2022, the Peachtree Corners City Council denied the rezoning request for the Dilweg project. The Town Center project was approved, and Council agreed with the Planning Commission recommendations. The Sun Court project was also approved by Council, but there were some modifications to the Planning Commission’s recommendations. The developer is required to work in conjunction with the city to determine the exact path of the trail system through the property. Also, within 30 days of the issuance of land disturbance permit, the developer must contribute 50% of the base cost of a pedestrian crossing from the property to the Intuitive campus across Spalding Drive as part of the trail system expansion.

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

PTC Anchors ATL Unlocked Event One of the ‘smartest’ cities in the world welcomes start-ups, entrepreneurs and innovators to join the future. By Arlinda Smith Broady

Despite inflation, labor shortages, and cost of capital increases, the small business M&A market remains strong in 2022 driven by baby boomer retirements. According to the Q2 BizBuySell Market report, the services sector continues to lead businesses for sale transactions. Among buy-ers surveyed, these businesses are the most sought after (40%), followed by retail (29%). More specifically, buyers are seeking ‘recession-proof’, essential ser-vices, such as auto repair shops,

healthcare businesses, cleaning services, and financial services. Transworld Business Advisors see a strong 2022 1st half of the year with 13% YOY growth in business sale and 64% growth over 2020 pandemic year levels. You may want to consider talking to a Transworld Business Advisor for a complementary valuation while the market is hot. Explore your options by giving us a call today at 770-766-9855 or email atlantapeachtree@tworld.com.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Anyone who knows anything about technology has heard of Silicon Valley. But how many people, especially those right here in Metro Atlanta, have heard of Silicon Orchard? Did you know that you are in the midst of it? Peachtree Corners has become the epicenter for smart technology startups and is one of the few locations in the world where smart city technology — including driverless cars, smart cameras, an artificial intelligence-controlled infrastructure and millions of internet-of-things sensors — come together in one place. And the technology is not just in a lab; it’s being deployed throughout the city. There’s an autonomous shuttle that takes riders on a 1.5-mile loop through Technology Park. Even the electric scooters, which anyone can borrow to get around town, automatically show up when called and then drive back to their home base after their human riders have been dropped off. So it’s no wonder that Peachtree Corners is the last leg of the ATL Unlocked event. ATL Unlocked is a groundbreaking partnership between the Metro Atlanta Chamber and the region’s leading innovation and entrepreneurship centers. It transforms metro Atlanta into an accessible ecosystem where creators, innovators, founders and entrepreneurs thrive. It opens the doors to the region’s diverse community and connects people, resources and spaces, according to organizers. As it does, ATL Unlocked encourages knowledge sharing across diverse perspectives and greater access to the vital resources our region has to offer. Literature explaining the event said that ATL Unlocked is activated through the ATL Unlocked Tour, a series of events that invites entrepreneurs to experience different innovation centers and districts across the metro and connect with the people within them. Entrepreneurs visit centers outside of their home space so they can get to

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know the offerings and communities of different innovation centers and districts while building familiarity and mutual trust. “We are honored to host the final leg of ATL Unlocked in Peachtree Corners. This event showcases metro Atlanta’s innovative ecosystem of which we are proud to be a leader,” said Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason. “I look forward to welcoming the diverse group of innovators, entrepreneurs and business owners to the wonderful things we are doing in Peachtree Corners and at Curiosity Lab.”

The Tour Buckhead: Hosted by Atlanta Tech Village The tour kicked off on May 23 in Buckhead, home to the fourth largest entrepreneurial and startup tech community in the country. Atlanta Tech Village (ATV) is a thriving innovation community that has launched two unicorns. The area has deep connections to Atlanta’s business and investment community and is engineered to increase a startup’s chance of success.

Downtown / Westside: Hosted by Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs This area is becoming home to numerous global technology companies, including Microsoft, and to major universities, including Georgia State University and historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) located in and around the Atlanta University Center (AUC). It hosted the second part of the tour on June 21. It’s the heart of Black entrepreneurship in the south. The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) is at the center of this area, providing an economic mobility engine that offers space and resources to help Black entrepreneurs and small business owners innovate, grow and build wealth.

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Midtown Atlanta has been called the hottest innovation neighborhood in America. The third stop on the tour took place here on July 21. The area mixes technology and creativity. It’s home to countless startup, corporate innovation centers and incubators — and top ranked universities, including Georgia Tech and SCAD. ATDC, Georgia’s technology business incubator, is fostering technological entrepreneurship through curriculum, coaching, connections and community. Create X extends that support to Georgia Tech students, empowering them to launch successful startups.

Alpharetta: Hosted by ech Alpharetta Located just north of Atlanta, the Alpharetta suburb is a thriving corporate innovation, e gaming and technology community that includes nearly 35% of ‘Where Georgia Leads’ technology companies. The fourth installment of the tour takes place here on August 18. At Tech Alpharetta, some of the leading technology companies in

the district are working together to shape the future of the technology industry in the region.

Peachtree Corners: Hosted by Atlanta Tech Park A suburban community where infrastructure and local government have facilitated innovation for years, Peachtree Corners rounds out the tour. Curiosity Lab is an economic development city initiative to provide space and resources to advance intelligent mobility, IoT and smart city technologies. Neighboring Atlanta Tech Park is a collaborative workspace and accelerator that offers connections, advising and resources for growth phase companies.

ATL Unlocked at Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Parkway Northwest, Peachtree Corners 30092 Thursday, September 22, 5-7 p.m. Admission is free. Reservations are required. Register at atlantatechpark.com/product/atlunlocked-event-ticket/.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

A Little Italy in Peachtree Corners Makes Extending an Olive Branch a Symbol of Health

onceivably, one day soon, we’ll be driving through Peachtree Corners taking in views reminiscent of the Italian countryside. As our gaze falls upon stretches of olive groves, we may think we’re in Italy for a second — until we realize this phenomenon in our ever-avant-garde metropolis is due to its ideal geographic location, favorable to the cultivation of olive trees, and the ingenious collaboration of forward-thinking Italian and American researchers working to extract from olive oil its most beneficial molecules, a

By Patrizia Winsper

gift as precious as gold for our health.

The newest virtual member of Atlanta Tech Park is the brainchild of Dr. Matteo Bertelli, founder and president of the Italian MAGI Group since 2006. MAGI specializes in the research, diagnosis and treatment of rare genetic diseases. His spin-off at Atlanta Tech Park, MagisNat, unites academics on opposite shores of the Atlantic in a promising mission to combat disease using natural molecules.

Capitalizing on health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet Applying molecular genetics and metabolomics in the study of natural substances extracted from foods typical of the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet), MagisNat is finding ways to zero in on its long-known health benefits and make good use of its disease-preventing properties. The active components of polyphenols and flavonoids found in olives, tomatoes and citrus fruit

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

for example, can be extracted to produce dietary supplements scientifically proven to prevent an array of pathologies. The fledgling company has already produced two supplements which will be available soon, Garlive Oral Spray and Garlive Recovery tablets with vitamins, both formulated with hydroxytyrosol derived from olive extracts to support a healthy immune system.

out opportunities like those provided by this business incubator, small companies like ours could never start,” he said. “I cannot express how grateful I am to those who conceived and developed this organization called Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners.”

The international launch

Let’s begin with what it’s not. It’s not a rigid, calorie-counting, restrictive fad diet, but rather a modo di vita, or a lifestyle approach consisting of more traditional meal preparation using a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods, and the prioritization of physical activity, social gatherings and relaxation. The MedDiet was actually coined in the 1950s by American physiologist Dr. Ancel Keys. Keys was dedicated to studying the influence of diet on health. After his famous Seven Countries Study, he concluded that replacing dietary saturated

On June 23, 2022, a MagisNat conference took place in the press room of Palazzo Montecitorio, seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies in Rome, Italy. Atlanta Tech Park simultaneously hosted the event stateside. Professors from both sides of the pond spoke at the official launch about this promising collaboration to further investigate the disease-preventing properties of the MedDiet. Bertelli said he appreciates the staff at our local accelerator whose role he considers invaluable. “Withpeachtreecornerslife

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We’ve all heard about the health benefits of the MedDiet but what exactly is it?

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Opposite page, the medical and business participants of the virtual conference stream at Atlanta Tech Park Below, one of the slides presenting to during the presentation

fat with polyunsaturated fat reduces cardiovascular heart disease. In 2013, the MedDiet was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity because of how and what the diverse populations along the Mediterranean Sea Basin eat. In turn, the World Health Organization has classified it as a diet that protects against cardiovascular disease. Apparently, coming together with a network of family and friends to enjoy meals consisting of fresh, seasonal and local food, mostly fruits, herbs, whole grains, nuts, vegetables, legumes, fish and seafood and olive oil with moderate amounts of milk and wine — mainly red, with meals — improves heart health, body mass index and cognitive function, while decreasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and even certain cancers. It’s also important that sugar, red meat and processed meat are consumed sparingly. Perhaps the old adage needs a little tweak: “You are what and how you eat.”

Natural molecule-based treatments show promise across a variety of diseases In Rome, Italy, Dr. Pietro Chiurazzi, affiliated with the University Polyclinic Foundation A. Gemelli, discussed how olive mill wastewater (OMW) could be used to create supplements containing powerful antioxidants. Instead of the idiomatic expression, ‘Don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater,’ think: ‘Don’t throw out the hydroxytyrosol with the OMW.’ Chiurazzi studies the treatment of the rare, late-onset neurodegenerative disease FXTAS, characterized by tremors and an ataxic (uncoordinated) gait. At the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Catholic University of the Sacred Heart) Institute of Ophthalmology, Dr. Benedetto Falsini has a pilot study underway to rescue retinal cells before they succumb to inherited degeneration. In Sacro Cuore’s Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Amerigo Iaconelli aids patients with met-

abolic syndrome, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, osteoporosis and obesity. Dr. Sandro Michelini of San Giovanni Battista Hospital scrutinizes pathologies that cause lymphedema, a blockage in the lymph system causing swelling of the arms or legs. The President of the Macula & Genoma Foundation in New York, Dr. Andrea Cusumano, employs this new and unusual approach to rescue photoreceptors in a pursuit to prevent and reverse blindness. Cusumano advances the field of ophthalmology in Italy, Germany and the U.S. Bertelli credits Dr. Stephen T. Connelly with getting this venture off the ground, “He devoted an enormous amount of time to the birth of this spin-off,” Bertelli said of Connelly, Associate Clinical professor at the University of California San Francisco, who is eager to embark on the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease. Emory University Dr. Peng Jin chairs the Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine in Atlanta. He too examines neurodegenerative disorder treatment, especially Fragile X syndrome with tremor/ataxia. “Professor Peng Jin agreed to test the effects of olive tree polyphenols on fruit fly models in preventing FXTAS,” Bertelli shared, extending a personal message of thanks to Jin. Dr. John Paul SanGiovanni of U. Arizona’s BIO5 Institute explores chemistry of Mediterranean foods linking this information to receptors in the body that keep cells working optimally, showing promise for those afflicted with blinding age-macular degeneration (AMD). He’s identified links between the AMD-related MMP-9 protein and ferulic acid, a chemical found in fennel, oregano, olives and chickpeas. With locations in Tucson, Arizona and Beverly Hills, California, Medical and Research Director Dr. Karen L. Herbst of Total Lipedema Care, is passionate about helping patients with connective tissue disorders. Lipedema is an inflammatory disease resulting in the deposition of fibrotic subcutaneous adipose tissue characterized by excess fat accumulation in the lower part of the body. As varied as their areas of expertise and as geographically dispersed as all the participating researchers may be, they’re linked in the intent to employ the science behind MagisNat, the application of natural molecules to cure maladies and improve patient health.

Under the Georgia sun There’s much yet to be discovered about the beneficial effects of using these natural molecules in living organisms, but the stage is set and conditions are promising for fascinating developments in science and research at MagisNat in Peachtree Corners. Consider the MagisNat spinoff, yet another component of la dolce vita in our innovative city. Mangiate bene (eat well) and let’s toast to medical breakthroughs that once seemed like science fiction becoming a reality on our own turf. Salute! (Cheers!) ■

Without opportunities like those provided by this business incubator, small companies like ours could never start. I cannot express how grateful I am to those who conceived and developed this organization called Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners. Dr. Matteo Bertelli

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

City and Business Association Work Together for Community Success Peachtree Corners Business Association celebrates 10 years of making us better!

sking which was established first, the City of Peachtree Corners or the Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) is kind of like asking which came first, the chicken or the egg. While philosophers, religious scholars, scientists and the like ponder the chicken and egg question, there is a correct answer to the former. PCBA is a few months older than the city itself.

That’s significant because they are interdependent. “When the City of Peachtree

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Corners was founded in 2012, the PCBA and the city recognized the importance of having an organization focused on our business community,” said President Lisa Proctor. “The PCBA was established as an integral part in growing and developing our business community with all businesses that want to do business within

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

our community.” Peachtree Corners Business Association is a business membership organization that focuses on innovative approaches, programs, shared resources, community outreach and opportunities for its member businesses and professionals to connect, develop, grow and prosper.

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Above left, Lisa Proctor and Toby Anderson receiving proclamation from Mayor Mike Mason (right) Other pictures are from across several years of community involvement in charities, business and local issues.

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Just like its motto says, it’s “Where Businesses Come to Grow!”

Local businesses strengthen the community Any Economics or Political Science course will point out the symbiosis of local businesses and local governments. Cities need businesses to contribute expertise

and resources in support of public/private funding solutions for special projects. Locally owned businesses provide many economic benefits to a community, such as: ■ Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community and are less likely to leave. They are more invested in the

community’s future. ■ Increasing local businesses means creating more jobs to encourage more people to stay in the area. This not only allows people to work closer to home, but also improves the quality of life for the community by increasing city revenue, creating a more self-sustainable community and connecting the community together. ■ Locally owned businesses also build strong communities by sustaining vibrant town centers, linking neighbors in a web of economic and social relationships and contributing to local causes. The list of positives can go on and on. It’s important to note that these benefits from supporting local businesses are at risk of being measurably reduced by the

increase of national chain competition.

PCBA strengthens local businesses and the city The PCBA is made up of businesses of all sizes and types who want to expand their reach and grow their business within Peachtree Corners and the greater metro-Atlanta area. According to its website, PCBA affords its members the opportunity to: ■ Gain exposure and brand awareness for their businesses, ■ Highlight their businesses, ■ Generate new customers and forge relationships, ■ Support local businesses, and Continued on page 34

Focus on Local Charities The Peachtree Corner’s Business Association is proud to focus its fundraising efforts on three local charities. Corners Outreach has a mission of equipping Atlanta’s underserved students of color and their families to lead full lives through educational development and economic opportunities. It offers three paths to impact the community: volunteering, donating and becoming a customer. All three paths change lives and are accomplished through: Corners Academy — early learning, elementary tutoring and teen development; Workforce Development — basic needs, life skills, job skills and educational advancement; Family Engagement — adult workshops, food assistance and health services; and Corners Industries & Staffing — sustainable living wage and career advancement certification. More at cornersoutreach.org. Paint Gwinnett Pink 5K is a celebration of survivorship, while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer programs at Northside Hospital Gwinnett. Community support and donations fund Northside Hospital Institute cancer patients in Gwinnett County by providing improved access to

cutting-edge imaging technology for earlier diagnosis, mamograms, transportation and other assistance needed for cancer treatments. Funds raised in 2022 will go to the installation of additional imaging units. The event is the largest 5K supporting breast cancer in Gwinnett County. The annual Paint Gwinnett Pink 5K Walk/Run is held at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville every October. The 2022 event will be held on Saturday, October 15. More at paintgwinnettpink.com. A. Worley Brown Boys & Girls Club provides an environment where all youth feel safe and secure to dream, discover and develop. It works with hundreds of kids and teens each year to help them reach their full potential. The programs focus on helping kids succeed in school, live healthy and become leaders. The club focuses on a variety of programs including culinary arts and gardening, STEM, computer coding, music studio/music production, photography/ film production, visual and performing arts, fashion and design, creative writing/comic book creation, science, career readiness, a Diplomas to Degrees program, tutoring and homework support, toastmasters, sports and character and leadership development clubs. More at bgcma.org/club/aworley/.

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Continued from page 33 ■ Give back to the community. That last item on the list, giving back to the community, is a huge part of what the Peachtree Corners Business Association does. Through its Community Outreach Program, it has donated over $115,000 and awarded 15 scholarships to deserving charities and students over the last 10 years.

10th anniversary celebration To celebrate its 10-year anniversary, PCBA is pulling out all the stops to raise as much money as possible to help three more charities. “This year, we’re focusing our fundraising efforts on local charities that are addressing three important needs — community, health and education,” said Proctor. The annual charity event, Celebrating 10 Years and Touchdowns Charity Party, is set for Sept. 22 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. “It’s going to be our best one yet and we would love for [everyone in the community] to be a part of it,”

said Proctor. “There will be plenty of time for business networking, enjoying tailgating activities including a cornhole tournament, a live auction, drawings, food and adult beverages as we raise money for three great causes and award a check that evening to another local charity.” Tickets for the fundraiser are on sale now and there are sponsorship opportunities. Perhaps best of all, a silent auction is underway that features one-of-a-kind items, such as a football signed by Peyton Manning and another signed by Rob Gronkowski; a boxing glove signed by Mike Tyson; trips to Hilton Head, The Biltmore and more distant destinations like Sydney, Australia and Greece. There are also adventures, including a supercar driving experience and a chance to swim with sharks. Visit peachtreecornersba. com/about-charity-event to get details, register for the charity party or place bids for the silent auction. ■

Proclamation for PCBA The PCBA was awarded a proclamation for its 10 years of service from the City of Peachtree Corners on May 24 during the regular city council meeting. It read: “A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF PEACHTREE CORNERS, GEORGIA RECOGNIZING THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PEACHTREE CORNERS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION WHEREAS, Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) is a business membership organization that focuses on innovative approaches, programs, shared resources, community outreach and opportunities for member businesses; and WHEREAS, over the past ten years, PCBA has focused on opportunities for business professionals to connect, develop, grow and prosper; and WHEREAS PCBA continues to facilitate interactions and business relations between members; promotes member businesses to others; and fosters strong relationships with local government and the community to achieve a healthy local economy and quality of life. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Peachtree Corners that the Peachtree Corners Business Association is hereby congratulated on its tenth anniversary and commended for its decade of success in our community. SO PROCLAIMED AND EFFECTIVE, this the 24th day of May, 2022.” Board member and secretary Donna Linden was proud of the association’s recognition but wasn’t surprised that it was honored by the city. “I love the true charitable heart of the PCBA and the support that they give to businesses,” she said. “It is truly an organization that is dedicated to supporting businesses and giving back to the community.” Another board member, Quentin Moses, agreed. “PCBA is a true blessing to our community. It provides a means by which local business owners can help and support each other. In addition, it contributes to many nonprofits that really need our contributions in the current times. I am and have been a proud member for several years and will continue to be,” he said. ■

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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In the Beginning… Peachtree Corners Community Development Director and first full-time city employee Diana Wheeler recounts the early days.

By Diana Wheeler

Ten years ago, when I was offered the opportunity to become Peachtree Corners’ first employee, I eagerly accepted because I thought that with over 25 years of government experience, I could make a real contribution to this new city. I didn’t realize until I visited the first City Hall building for the very first time that I would be contributing more than just my knowledge and experience. I would also be contributing my cell phone, car, laptop and credit card. The fledgling city of Peachtree Corners had a framework for

governance in place and several part-time consultants to manage operations, but there were no other permanent employees or much of anything else. The space that had been leased for City Hall was an old, empty building with glass walls and a poor ventilation system. I had my pick of any empty office I wanted. With my architectural training and an understanding of the building’s orientation, I could tell immediately that I would have a choice of either being too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer. (I went with too cold in the winter and invested in a space heater.)

Setting, and resetting, priorities

From top left clockwide,

I spent that first morning in August 2012 making a list of everything that needed to be done and then got to work on my list. The first item was a call to the cable company to sign up for internet service. There was only so much I could do on my phone. Without computers and internet, there would be no way to start up this start-up. Next on my list was a trip to a

John Wheeler plays the national anthem at the first City Hall Grand Opening, January 2013 Diana Wheeler addresses the audience in the first City Council chambers, March 2014 City Council cuts the ribbon to City Hall at the Grand Opening, January 2013 Mayor Mike Mason unveils the city name and logo at the first City Hall Grand Opening, January 2013 (Photos courtesy of the City of Peachtree Corners)

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Get Connected The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is a more than a place to network...it’s a place to belong! The SWGC is a catalyst for businesses, organizations, and cities to work together, network, and positively impact our communities. Choose an upcoming opportunity where you can learn more about what it’s like to be part of the SWGC!

Join Us Monthly for breakfast networking and guest speakers

August 5 Tim Perry North American Properties Passionate about the power of community building, as well as transit and workforce development- Tim will present the latest information on redevelopment plans for The Forum in Peachtree Corners.

September 9 Kimberly Beaudin, CEO Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame Beaudin is responsible for driving sponsorship, philanthropic development, marketing strategy, and PR for one of the nation's premiere sports and entertainment destinations. Her leadership, experience, energy and enthusiasm will be a great kick-off to football season!

EACH FRIDAY at 8:30 am (Except First Fridays)

Members & non-members are invited—businesses, non-profits, and community leaders—for networking over FREE coffee!

Interested in membership?

For details and registration requirements for these events and more, visit our website:

www.southwestgwinnettchamber.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

used furniture store to see about buying desks, chairs, file cabinets and other essentials. There was no time to order new furniture and wait for delivery. I needed to buy things that were on-hand — or second hand. Fortunately, six matching office sets were found, and I told the salesperson that I would take them all. I was feeling a great sense of accomplishment until he asked how I wanted to pay for them. I told him that the furniture was for the City of Peachtree Corners and asked if he could create an account for the city. He said he never heard of Peachtree Corners, but he could set up an account if it was tied to a credit card or a bank account. Well, of course, Peachtree Corners had neither, so I contributed the use of my credit card and hoped that the purchase cleared. Luckily, it was the beginning of the month, so the transaction was approved — and I was off to my newly re-prioritized next destination: the bank. All went well there, but I thought it might still be prudent to call my credit card company and see if they would raise my card limit. They did and that made me happy until I started to think about explaining the next month’s credit card bill to my husband.

Challenges and accomplishments Over the next few weeks, I worked to secure office equipment, including copy machines, a plotter (for maps and plans) and AV equipment, as well as basic office supplies. Fortunately, my credit card with its increased spending limit was up to the challenge and carried us over until the bank issued the city a line of credit. Meanwhile, without the benefit of coworkers, I often needed to find creative solutions to routine challenges. For example, when trash got dumped along Peachtree Corners Circle, I reached out to Gwinnett’s Sheriff Department and made arrangements for an inmate work crew to pick it all up. And when deliveries were made to City Hall that I couldn’t physically manage, a

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staffing agency sent folks with strong arms to assist. I even put my family to work. Large tables and file cases with drawers were needed for building plan review and large format projects, so my husband Robert and son John assembled big IKEA dining room tables and cabinets that were later outfitted with glass tops. They worked hard interpreting Swedish instructional hieroglyphics over the course of a weekend, and I supplied a picnic lunch of peanut butter sandwiches, because a refrigerator hadn’t yet been purchased for the break room.

Celebration for the new city One of the biggest challenges came at the beginning of December 2012 when the City Council announced that there would be a Grand Opening of City Hall with an open house in January — and the entire community would be invited. It seemed like an impossible goal, but the City Council had just hired City Clerk Kym Chereck and that made all the difference. The two of us worked with a consultant, developed an action plan, delegated assignments — and everyone got very, very busy. We worked up until the very last minute. A Boy Scout troop was even recruited to raise the flag at City Hall on opening day. It didn’t occur to me until the week before that the national anthem should be played when the flag is raised for the first time. It was too late to solicit a volunteer, so again, I pressed my good-natured, trumpet player son John into service. He did an admirable job and set the tone for a jubilant day. The highlight of the Grand Opening came when Mayor Mike Mason unveiled the city name and logo on the wall of the new Council Chambers. The unveiling generated a standing ovation and marked the realization of a dream for all those involved and for a brand-new city. It was a truly remarkable achievement. And 10 years later, we’re still living the dream. Happy Birthday, Peachtree Corners! ■

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Chillin’ in Peachtr

ven in the long, hot days of summer, chilling in Peachtree Corners is a breeze. Kids dance in the refreshing fountain at Town Center, get “snow-bubbled” at the annual festival, feed the geese in the Chattahoochee or laze in a swimming pool. Adults enjoy outdoor recreational activities, concerts and social time, and succumb to the occasional afternoon nap. Pets find ways to chill out too, in water and shady spots, and love extra time with their humans. Enjoy these photos of the lazy, hazy days of summer from members of the Peachtree Corners Photography Club. The monthly meetings of the Club are open to everyone, from beginners to pros. For more information about the Club, go to their website at pcphotoclub.org. ■

Scan QR to find out more about the club.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

This page. Left, Alfonso Caycedo, by the river Top down, Anna Niziol, Volunteers; Eric Richter, Fun Flying the Drone Opposite page. Left column top down, Anna Niziol, Pickleball Elaine Bullard, Foam Kids Tracey Rice, Lifeguard at River Station Pool Far right column top down, Singh Vipul, Wave your hands in the air Richard Phillips, Peachtree Corners Festival Richard Phillips, Practicing Robotic Surgery at the Intuitive Robotics Mobile Van peachtreecornerslife

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ree Corners

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

First Column top down: Tracey Rice, Cooling off at Town Center Alfonso Caycedo, Reading by the river shore Tracey Rice, Weekend Break Above, Elaine Bullard, Foam at Peachtree Corners Festival Second column top down: Eric Richter, Watching Youth Baseball Singh Vipul, On daddys shoulder Eric Richter, Shopping the Festival Booths Third Column top down: Jim Worthington Anna Niziol, Tai Chi Tracey Rice, Napping Richard Phillips, Car Shows Main Attraction

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Gwinnett County Public Library Photo Annual Exhibition Invitation: Jumping Through Time

Open to submissions now, submission deadline is August 15. Information and entry form at gwinnettpl.org/news/photoannual22/ or scan the QR CODE

Exhibition is free to enter; each entrant can submit up to five images. The Gwinnett County Public Library invites photographers to submit to the GCPL Photo Annual. Selected photographers will have their work exhibited and published during the Atlanta Celebrates Photography festival in October. Entries are juried by Coco Conroy, the Director at Jackson Fine Art Gallery in Atlanta. Explore the past, the present or the future in this year’s theme, Jumping through Time. Judges are looking for broad interpretations of the theme, including fictional narratives, emotional landscapes, literal translations, altered timelines and more. Any photographic, lens or light-based images are welcome for entry. Please note that artworks cannot contain nudity, drug use or violence. Submissions are collected through Google Forms. Accepted photographers will be notified September 9. The exhibition will open October 14 and close November 18. On October 22, there will be a juror talk with Coco Conroy.

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

DOING GOOD

‘Scouting’ for Wholesome Youth Activities Scouts learn many life skills while have fun doing it.

ith school starting for most students this month, it’s time to start thinking about signing up for extracurricular activities as well as educational ones. If scouting is on your radar, it’s possible you’ll be signing your child up for something recreational that

By Arlinda Smith Broady

imparts life lessons as well.

Peachtree Corners Troop 525 out of Simpsonwood United Methodist Church has been proving that Scouts BSA (formerly Boy Scouts of America) is still relevant these days, even when kids can have busier schedules than their parents. Chartered with eight boys in August 1984, the troop prides itself on being boy-led, meaning that the youngsters are trained and then allowed to put those lessons to the test. Although now is the best time to sign up and get in with the troop as the school year starts, boys are welcome all the time, said Scoutmaster Scott Donaldson. There may not be as many boys signing up now as there have been in the past, but they aren’t hurting for recruits.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

“We’re at around 65 boys right now,” said Dave Burns, Committee Chair and Merit Badge Counselor. He’s the father of Will Burns, Eagle Scout #177, now a rising freshman at the University of Alabama. He also has another son/scout in the troop, Christian Burns. The troop had more than 100 scouts just a few years ago and as large groups age out, large groups join.

From boys to leaders Each scout is required to hold leadership positions as he advances in rank. “I was in Cub Scouts, did all Cub Scout stuff, got finished with Cub Scouts and was very much done with it,” said Joshua Farley. He was encouraged to give

peachtreecornerslife

Scouts BSA a try. “When I got to the troop, I immediately loved it,” he said. Where Cub Scouts involves younger boys in a parent-structured environment, older scouts get the opportunity to flex their leadership muscles and make most decisions themselves.

peachtreecornerslife

Opposite page, Finishing Eagle Scout project – benches for Norcross High School tennis courts Clockwise from bottom left this page, Proclamation from city of Peachtree Corners in April with Mayor Mike Mason and City Councilman Eric Christ

going to be over here. And then they go and drink coffee and make up stories about how cool they were when they were young,” West said.

Official Troop 525 Scouts at Camp Woodruff Scout Camp in Blairsville, GA in July Boy Scout Leader Dave Burns at Camp Woodruff Scout Camp in Blairsville, GA

Fly high as an Eagle

“We go camping once a month, and it’s totally boy-led,” said Farley. “We get to decide what camp we want to go to, what …to eat on a campout — it’s a lot of fun.” Fellow scout Andrew West, agreed. “When we go and camp out, the adults kind of point and say, ‘Hey, you’re over there. We’re

Some of the scouts go on to earn the highest possible rank of Eagle Scout. Requirements include actively serving in positions of responsibility, earning a total of 21 merit badges and leading a service project from planning to completion. West slid in just before the deadline with his Eagle Scout project. “I built a picnic table for a local neighborhood HOA’s garden. I was originally planning on two, but the price of wood isn’t cheap and they were happy with the one. They like it and they enjoy it,” said West. “Honestly, it was a spur of the moment thing because I was coming down to the wire in terms of my aging out. It was May and I aged out in June.” Farley didn’t play it as close. “I got my Eagle back in 2018. …I built

Andrew West works on his Eagle Scout project, a picnic table for a local neighborhood HOAs garden. Joshua Farley earned his Eagle Scout rank in 2018.

some shelves for a dog rescue,” he said. “They were some pretty massive shelves. I think they were eight-foot by six-foot by four-foot shelves. Originally, they were designed to fit dog crates. The last time I was there, they were using them to store dogs inside of dog crates, as well as giant bags of dog food that they order in bulk. So they’re still getting used a lot.” Unlike most boys, Farley was still in eighth grade when he earned his Eagle Scout rank — 13 years and 10 months old. “I would say that out of the past

340 Eagle Scouts, two or three maybe fall in that category,” said Donaldson. And again, not to say anything at all negative about this, but Andrew chose the more common path, which we jokingly referred to as the ‘Hard Tech Eagle,’ which is basically, ‘I’ve got the merit badges. I turn 18 in 30 days, and I’ve got to get this done.’ So, it’s basically ‘get the project done.’”

Growth through adventure Even though earning that ultimate rank is a major accomplishment, the troop leaders were quick

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Scouts at Camp Woodruff Scout Camp in Blairsville, GA Replacement Windows and Doors

to point out that scouting is about much more than earning badges and achieving ranks. “I went to my first camp out in Cub Scouts …in an eight-man tent on two blow-up mattresses. And it was like 30 degrees and we’re like ‘How is it that we’re so cold?’” Farley recounted. Both he and his dad were novices at camping but liked the outdoors and the camaraderie of scouting. “This summer, I backpacked about 105 miles in 10 days out in New Mexico at the Philmont Scout Ranch with our crews,” Farley said. “I’ve totally come full circle since then. Obviously, that was my first camp out. When I first joined the troop, I was showing up with a sleeping bag that came up only a little past my waist. “…A lot of the kids, they show up in their first year and they’ve got either these giant tents or they’ve got this super-duper high-tech backpacking tent that their parents got them from REI. They have no idea how to set it up. Then as they’re in it, they figure it out,” he added. Joshua’s dad, Paul Farley, the Outdoor Chair and Merit Badge Counselor, nodded in agreement. He has another son/scout in the troop, Patrick Farley. They both grew together in the Scouts experience. Although movies may portray all scout leaders as outdoorsy types, many learn along the way with their children. Paul Farley enjoyed it so much, he signed on to volunteer — and he kept volunteering. Now he’s in charge of logistics. He went along on the 105mile hike, carrying a backpack to summit a 12,400-foot-high peak. “I also went to Sea Base Camp in Florida, where they get to paddle a war canoe out five miles to barrier

island. There’s no power and you carry everything out with you,” said Paul Farley. “My job in the troop as the Outdoor Chair is to do the behind-the-scenes stuff so that the boys have the opportunities to have these adventures and experiences.”

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When it comes down to it, one of the most amazing things about Scouts is that the teens learn life skills, leadership skills and coping skills without realizing they’ve learned them. Burns shared a story about a 12-year-old scout whose house caught on fire. “The stove caught fire,” he said. “He called 911, got the dogs out of the house and got the fire extinguisher and gave it to his mom and she put the fire out. We’re actually in the process of submitting him for a reward recognition for keeping a calm head and using his scout skills.” Boys of 11 and 12 enter the troop as nervous tweens. They learn how to set up tents, cook over campfires, coordinate with other boys to get chores done and tie a bunch of knots — and they come out as confident, caring and cognizant young men.

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Basic info Scout BSA Troop 525 meets on Mondays, 7:30 p.m., at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church, 4500 Jones Bridge Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092. To learn more about the troop, go to troop525.org . ■

sooniandtommi.com August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

MOVE

Sports & Recreation

All My Rowdy Friends

It may be debatable how much of a sport cornhole is, but you can play with a beer in one hand – how bad can that be?

anging out with friends and co-workers after a long day can involve more than eating and drinking. With the CornholeATL Cornhole League hosting games four times a year at Peachtree Corners Town Center, you can add tossing bean bags at a small hole to the mix.

The state’s largest and fastest

ByArlinda Smith Broady

growing cornhole league is back for another season of fun. CornholeATL’s Fall League starts in August and, as always, there four different divisions of play to accommodate all skill levels.

Make friends and have fun Jeff Brawand, owner of CornholeATL, moved to metro Atlanta from Cincinnati, Ohio in 2007 to work for Delta Airlines. “Growing up in Ohio, cornhole is everywhere,” he said. “When I moved to Atlanta, I was looking for a way to meet people.” He tried kickball games and soccer and things like that, but as he got older, he was looking for an outlet where he wouldn’t get hurt or seriously injured. “I got to the point where I said to myself, ‘I don’t need to be sliding anymore. I’m just trying to meet new people

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

and meet new friends.’ And so, I started the cornhole league, CornholeATL, in 2011,” he said. The league started in Virginia Highlands in a public park. A few years later, Brawand said he “pivoted to playing at bars, mixed use developments and open green spaces.” He likes the fact that players are surrounded by different sorts of restaurants at Town Center and there’s plenty of space to spread out and have fun. “It’s a lot easier than having to play in a public park where people are bringing out coolers,” Brawand said. “It’s easier to play at a venue where people could just buy drinks, buy food and kind of spend their money on site.” One of the first mixed-use developments where CornholeATL set was Avalon in Alpharetta. “They love it because we’re bringing peopeachtreecornerslife

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ple on a night where it might not be as busy,” noted Brawand. “But now people are coming out playing cornhole. They’re grabbing dinner with their friends beforehand; they’re grabbing drinks during and after the games. So it kind of just built up the area a little bit more.” The league came to Peachtree Corners about three years ago, when teams started forming outside the Perimeter. “It’s been really successful outside the city,” Brawand said. “There’s a lot of stuff to do already [in Atlanta] and so it does great here because people might not have as much to do. And when they get home, they probably don’t want to have to go downtown. They want to be able to stay in their area.” When North American Properties General Manager Tim Perry presented his company’s vison for The Forum, events like the cornpeachtreecornerslife

Opposite page starting from left, Alan Dickherber, Joe Benincasa, Jackie Adams, Karen Wilkins, Bruce Kolbinsky (L-R) with branded board Alan Dickherber, Joe Benincasa, Chad Schloerke, Jackie Adams, David and Findley the Mascot Dog! Throwing the cornhole bag Karen Wilkins and Amy Schlosser – Girl Power showing team name “Shut up and Throw”

hole league were what he said the property will endorse. Brawand stressed that working with the Town Center staff has been a great experience and the seasons have been quite successful.

How it works Each season of CornholeATL lasts seven weeks and there are four cornhole seasons a year. “We do it spring, summer, fall and winter,” Brawand said. “The first six weeks are the regular season, and the last week – week seven — is the playoffs for that location.” Each league has four divisions: beginner, intermediate, intermediate-plus and advanced. That way people with similar skill levels compete against each other. It would be kind of like having Charles Barkley or Michael Jordan playing pick-up basketball.

“You basically can go to our website and kind of see the skill level you would be best suited,” Brawand said. “If you’re barely hitting a board, then you’re probably a beginner. But if you’re getting all four in the hole or on the board, then you’re probably advanced.” At the end of the day, the goal is to have fun, said Brawand. “That’s our focus. And that’s why we call it a cornhole league as opposed to a tournament. The word tour-

is quite attractive. “The company reimburses us for our registration, and we have t-shirts made every season,” said Adams. “And since the teams are so small, we always have enough people to play.” Within the six weeks of regular play, a team needs at least two people to be present to play or the game will be forfeited, Brawand explained. After two forfeitures, the team is out of the league. “We don’t

nament kind of has a negative vibe that might be a little bit more competitive. “So it’s a league; it’s a social league. The beginners will only play beginners all season long, even when it comes to the playoffs. Beginners only play the beginners in their division in the playoffs so you’re never playing up or down, which makes it a little bit more approachable.” Jackie Adams, Senior Director of Operations of New Franchise Development at Floor Coverings International has been on a CornholeATL team at Peachtree Corners Town Center since the league came there. “It’s super chill and a good way to relax and unwind with friends after work,” she said. In an era when not as many companies sponsor bowling or softball, the relatively small cost to pay for employees to form a cornhole team

want to waste people’s time,” he said. “It’s a commitment, but a small one.”

Championship play After a winner is declared for each division within a league, the winning teams move on to the state championship to play the winners of the other leagues. Right now, there are 45 leagues in the state from as far east as Athens, as far west as Carterville, as far south as Fayetteville and as far north as the outlets near Cumming. The farthest leagues could be a couple of hours’ drive from Atlanta, so the championship games are rotated around the area, although they’re usually held in the city. “We just did the spring tournament in Woodstock, and the summer one will be in Acworth,” said Brawand. Last year one of

the championships was held in Peachtree Corners. “It’s a blast. Everyone comes out from around the whole state,” he continued. “There are usually around 350 people playing and they all bring some spectators because it’s a big event with big prizes and big trophies.” Some of the coveted prizes have been tailgating chairs that say “Champions” on the back, which

can be pretty cool when you’re hanging out at a Bulldogs or Falcons game. “We pride ourselves on being a social league and having those divisions,” said Brawand. “It’s more of a social thing than a sport. You come out and have a good time. And you can toss the bean bag with one hand while you have your choice of beverage in the other.”

Sign up now to play cornhole this fall Registration for the CornholeATL Fall League is open until August 22. Sign up at cornholeatl. leaguelab.com/league/52593/detail. For more info, email info@cornholeatl.com. ■

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

KNOWLEDGE

The Secrets to Israel’s Start-up Ecosystems Success Through the Eyes of a PTC Local UGA entrepreneurship students seek the secrets to Tel Aviv’s startup success.

“I’m Tirzu, Ein Zo Agadah” translates into English as, “If you will it, it is no dream.” An Israeli Saying

bout 6,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean, perched on the easternmost part of the Mediterranean Sea, lies Tel Aviv, Israel, a seemingly small entrepreneurial society that has transformed the start-up ecosystem worldwide.

Israel has attracted large multinational companies such as Google, IBM, Apple and Fujitsu to their nation due to their start-up success, and it’s continuing to grow today.

The successful start-up nation attracted University of Georgia’s first study abroad group of Entrepre-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

neurial students to spend time and learn about the ecosystem of entrepreneurship. They spent weeks studying the social and institutional infrastructure that supports one of the world’s busiest start-up hubs. By visiting companies such as Monday.com and Overwolf, the students peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

received an abundance of entrepreneurial knowledge from CEOs and employees in the tech sector. “I wasn’t sure what to expect in Israel. However, I was so overwhelmed with the amount of knowledge I was able to grasp in three weeks,” said Stevie Bramble, a rising UGA fourth-year student studying marketing and entrepreneurship. “Everyone in the cohort was excited to learn about this unique business environment, and the community was willing to teach us about it.” Bramble was one of 28 students who participated in the study abroad Maymester in Tel Aviv, partaking in two courses: The Study of Diverse Entrepreneurship and Innovation Ecosystems. Although the majority of students are pursuing a degree through the Terry College of Business, the trip included all majors. Some other students are majoring in engineering, fashion merchandising, communications and international affairs. The program peachtreecornerslife

ensured a mix of people from all over UGA’s campus to embrace differences.

Survivalist engine According to Shahar Sorek, Israel is a “survivalist engine.” Sorek is the CMO of Overwolf, one of the businesses the students visited, and he spoke on Israel’s ecosystem. He mentioned that the Israeli people have persevered through hardship and furthermore, have produced a community of assertive and risk-taking individuals motivated to work hard and survive for the future. Adding on to this, Bramble learned that Israel has a military service that all Jewish men and women are required to partake in, called the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). After their 18th birthdays, they must serve for two to three

years before pursuing any secondary schooling or leaping into the workforce. While Americans cringe at the words ‘mandatory military time,’ Israeli’s embrace it. “The army brings people together because everyone in Israel has to do it,” said Hannah Laskow, the influencer marketing manager of Overwolf. “ Israel is only 74 years old so it is pretty small, creating a tight community that is willing to lean on one another.” Laskow met with Bramble oneon-one during the trip to discuss Israel’s ecosystem in depth. She mentioned that the IDF has different sectors, including, but not limited to, a tech sector and a combat sector. The tech sector is where most of the multinational companies such as Google and IBM recruit. It’s imperative to Israel’s ecosystem to require the IDF due to the massive

amount of talent being injected into society constantly. In the Study of Diverse Entrepreneurship course, the students had the opportunity to create a plan to maintain Israel as a major hub for start-ups. One of the groups came up with a plan to create technology boot camps for individuals coming out of the IDF who participated in non-tech sectors to gain tech knowledge and fix the lack of talent issue. The students were able to solve some real-world issues happening around them, and it was reported to be one of their favorite projects. In Israel, to be risk-tolerant is to survive. That’s why the majority of individuals are able to go anywhere and meet others who share an entrepreneurial mindset with ideas and thoughts like their own. Bramble and the rest of the group met with creators of start-

Opposite page, The group in Masada National Park and near the Dead Sea Top left, At the Overwolf Office in Tel Aviv. Top row: Lindsay Mangum, Alex Boulogne, Kaleb Thibodeaux, Laura Neely, Ben Brown and Nina Boone; bottom: Stevie Bramble. Top right, Shahar Sorek, CMO at Overwolf Above from left, Room mates Nina Boone and Stevie Bramble on the first night in Tel Aviv Ayobami Olubadewo and Stevie Bramble in Jerusalem The first night in Tel Aviv with the whole group and the professors

ups, ranging from small local incubators to larger global companies, including Monday.com and Overwolf. Some of the speakers had taken multiple businesses public

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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and now run large tech incubators. The group took away key points toward understanding the ‘survivalist engine’ they call Israel.

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According to the students, there was one standout speaker. Yuval Tal, founder and president of Payoneer and BorderFree, made time in his busy schedule to talk to the UGA students about his new tech incubator, Team8, and how to survive in a fast-paced start-up nation like Israel. The student’s key take-away from his speech was the acceptance of failure. Tal mentioned that startups take risks, and with risks comes failure. He drove home the point that success doesn’t come without many failures. “Having the drive to keep going is what matters the most,” said Tal. The students presented him with questions about Israel’s ecosystem, teamwork and his own personal failures. Tal mentioned his biggest failure was letting go of people and regretting it down the line. Tal hinted that one person he let go went on to start their own business and become successful in the sector he was working in himself. The lesson for the students was that it takes courage to work with and hire people who are smarter and better than yourself. However, it is imper-

ative to do it because it will make your business better. He also stated that “courage is over intelligence,” meaning that it takes a person to become bigger than their ego to keep going forward even when it seems difficult. The take-aways from Tal were the importance of believing in yourself, having courage and accepting failure. After considering Laskow’s insights about the IDF, it is clear how Israel has become a high-demand place for multinational companies to set up research and development centers. The riskiness ingrained into the Israeli people from birth is beneficial in their workplace life, especially after their experiences in the IDF. The IDF fosters a place where people must fail and learn from their mistakes to survive. It seems that Israel has mastered its survivalist engine perfectly. As many say “I’m Tirzu, Ein Zo Agadah” which translates into English as, “If you will it, it is no dream.”

Future trip planned The University of Georgia plans to host another trip to Tel Aviv, Israel in 2023 through the Entrepreneurship Program. For more information, please visit terry.uga.edu/ entreprenuership. ■

Wesleyan’s Druw Jones ’22 Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks Wesleyan School graduate Druw Jones ’22 was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks as the second overall selection in July’s Major League Baseball draft. A Wesleyan evergreen who attended Wesleyan from kindergarten through twelfth grade, Jones completed his high school baseball career alongside his teammates and coaches when the team won the state championship in May of this year. This summer, Jones was named the Gatorade Georgia Baseball Player of the Year, and he is a two-time Gwinnett Daily Post high school baseball player of the year. Jones currently holds Wesleyan School records for career and single season batting average, as well as most hits.“Coaching Druw in high school has been a delight,” said Brian Krehmeyer, Wesleyan’s varsity baseball coach. “Not only is he an incredibly gifted player, but he is also a great teammate. I could not be more thrilled for Druw and his family.” In his senior season, Jones finished the season with a .570 batting average, 13 homeruns, 72 runs, and 32 stolen bases.

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Fun with Science

Some of Curiosity Lab’s shining stars visit Peachtree Corners Library to show practical lessons about STEM.

dults often think that kids automatically know a lot about technology. Just because they know what all those weird emojis on your phone are supposed to represent and they can text faster than they talk, much of the new stuff out there is just as amazing to them as it is to the rest of us.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

That’s why the folks at Peachtree Corners Curiosity Lab decided to pack up a few goodies — two very awesome robots — and head over to Peachtree Corners Library to show some young patrons how the center of Silicon Orchard is growing and

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

setting the standard in several industries. One of the coolest things at Curiosity Lab — one that’s too big to fit into the library — is the shuttle that circumnavigates Curiosity Lab’s 1.5-mile autonomous vehicle test track along Technology Parkway. Launched on Oct. 1, 2019, two Olli electric vehicles will someday shuttle Peachtree Corners residents and workers to shops, office buildings and more. “Have you guys seen the trams, the shuttles on Technology Parkway?” Louis Svehla, communications director for the city of Peachtree Corners, asked the several dozen children present. As hands shot up, he told them peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Louis Svehla speaking to kids about Curiosity Lab at the Peachtree Corners Library.

something they probably didn’t know. “Those are driving themselves,” he said. “Nobody’s driving those and that’s part of the test vehicle that we’re using. …We have cameras, we have radar — you guys heard of radar, right? — and radio waves. You turn on your station and you can listen to radio; it runs on radio waves. And now we have a brand-new thing that’s called LIDAR. What that is, really, is the radar that allows a car to see everything around it, up and down, peachtreecornerslife

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

started, it only went five miles an hour,” he said. “And now, thanks to all of our testing, we have it up to 12 miles an hour. And then hopefully in the next few months, we’ll have it up to 25 miles an hour.” That didn’t seem to phase the audience. The idea of a driverless car still sounded like a great adventure.

Robot Stars

and can even tell what is coming in front of it, and whether it’s a car, a person or an animal.” The surprised looks from the children and the adults in the room prompted Svehla to invite them to come try the shuttle. “Hopefully you guys will come by Curiosity Lab and take a ride in some of our vehicles and see everything that we have going on there,”

he said. “These shuttles run every Monday through Friday, from 10 in the morning to 4:00. I don’t have to be there for you to ride it. If you go sit by one of their stations, you can get on and ride the shuttle.” “Cool!” one of the kids said in a stage whisper. But Svehla warned that it wouldn’t be like a speedy amusement park ride. “When we first

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Then Svehla introduced the star of the afternoon: Pepper, a humanoid robot who’s been programmed for human interaction. Pepper was not working up to her full potential that steamy July afternoon, but she showed that robots have come a long way since the no-name Robot Model B-9 on Lost in Space. “Pepper’s not as good as she should be right now because we continue to work and program her,” said Svehla. Her malfunctions were evident when she failed to give a high five but she made up for it with a fist bump and, later on, some dance moves that looked a little like twerking. Her speech was limited to answering a few rudimentary questions, but at least she never uttered, “Danger, Will Robinson!” Robots like Pepper have been used in airports and are still in development by companies like T-Mobile — and who knows? They may soon get to the level of Rosie on the Jetsons. (I’m still waiting for a robot to clean my house.) Perhaps the biggest star of the day was Gita, a storage robot that allows you to put stuff inside and can follow you around. Svehla said it was originally designed for use in airports, but it moved too slow for the quick pace and busy shuffling of passengers. peachtreecornerslife

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“You could put your luggage or different things [inside this compartment] and when you run to your plane, it could follow you,” said Svehla. “They found out very quickly that that doesn’t work when there are a whole lot of people around running to their planes. So what they do with this one, and what we use it for sometimes, is we take it out to Town Center when we have Fun Days or Kids’ Days — and we can give out water and popsicles and other stuff with this.” He demonstrated how the robot “learned” who its person was and would follow them wherever they went. The children had a blast playing a technology-enhanced game of “Follow the Leader.” At the end of the day, the demonstration was a fun way to encourage kids to get interested in STEM subjects and, perhaps, one day test out their start-up invention at the hometown laboratory. For more info on what’s happening at the Curiosity Lab, visit curiositylabptc.com. ■

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Expand Your Kids’ Knowledge with Great Field Trips By Ivy Marie Clarke

Whether your family is full of history buffs, granolas, thrill-seekers or scientists, there is tons to do around Gwinnett County this fall to spark your kids’ imagination and expand their minds.

nonprofit natural history museum, it shows indoor, outdoor and special exhibits related to dinosaurs, human culture and STEM subjects. Its giant screen theater plays award-winning science documentaries every day. WildWoods and Fernbank Forest are 75 acres and open year-round, fascinating people of all ages with its natural diversity. And this is all without mentioning Fernbank’s themed events. If you haven’t been yet, you’re sorely missing out!

Southeastern Railway Museum

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center Location: 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford 30519 Hours: Sunrise to sunset Website: exploregwinnett.org/directory/listing/environmental-heritage-center What makes it great: With over 233 acres of property, there’s plenty to do at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Your kids can experience educational fun with the Water Ways diorama and Discover H2O. For some adventure, try the Treetop Quest ropes course or wander on five miles of walking trails. Finish your trip with a tour of the charming 1850s Chesser-Williams Historic House.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Southeastern Railway Museum Location: 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth 30096 Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-6 p.m. Website: train-museum.org What makes it great: The Southeastern Railey Museum proudly stands as Georgia’s official museum of transportation history. It boasts the largest collection of locomotives in Georgia, including historically significant cars, buses and trains, as well as railroad artifacts. Kids will enjoy the old, real, larger-than-life vehicles and train rides.

McDaniel Farm Park Location: 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth 30096 Hours: Sunrise to sunset Website: exploregwinnett.org/directory/listing/mcdaniel-farm-park What makes it great: Georgia’s rural farming history goes back 200 years at this location. It was owned and maintained by the McDaniel family for 140 years — and much of the property has been preserved as it existed in the 1930s. When your family visits this farm, they’ll roam the fields of Gwinnett’s past, walk the halls that the McDaniels lived within and hear the chirping birds and gurgling water that generations of a farming family coexisted with for so many years.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Location: 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta 30307 Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: fernbankmuseum.org What makes it great: Well, what’s not great about Fernbank? As a

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Chattahoochee Nature Center Location: 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell 30075 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 12-4 p.m. Website: chattnaturecenter.org What makes it great: “Get your nature on” at this 127-acre nature destination on the Chattahoochee River. With dozens of activities available to experience, everyone’s in for a natural, fun time. Hike or canoe with your child down the river or take a walk and admire the beautiful scenery. Learn about backyard habitats and birds of prey together or zipline through the tree canopy. There are always special and seasonal events happening, so no matter when you visit, your family is sure to have a blast.

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Tellus Science Museum

Tellus Science Museum Location: 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville 30120 Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: tellusmuseum.org What makes it great: The Tellus Science Museum succeeds in making science exciting and engaging. In addition to the permanent fossil collection, the museum contains three special exhibits that change biannually: one for archaeology, the second for locomotives and the third for fun facts and brain games. Right now, Gear Up: The Science of Bikes is displayed in the Discovery Garden, so you and your family can learn about the technology, history and cultural impact of bicycles. You can also learn about our solar system at the Bentley Planetarium and view the night sky in the state-of-the-art Tellus Observatory. Tellus Science Museum

Illuminarium

Illuminarium Location: 550 Somerset Terrace NE, Atlanta 30306 Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thursday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. / 7 p.m.-11 p.m. (Illuminarium After Dark) Website: illuminarium.com/atlanta/ What makes it great: Illuminarium is an incredibly unique Atlanta attraction. Although entirely indoors, 4K laser projections, audio beams, in-floor haptics and scent effects combine to totally immerse visitors in realistic cultural experiences. Depending on the show you choose to attend, you may fall down into Wonderland, adventure through an African safari or be transported beyond our world and into the amazing galaxy swirling all around us in the SPACE experience. The sensory features of these experiences are intense and enriching without being frightening, so it will be thrilling for all ages. Bigger kids (ages 21+) can consider trying the After Dark or O’Keefe immersive settings for date night or an outing with friends.

Zoo Atlanta Location: 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta 30315 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Website: zooatlanta.org What makes it great: For classic family fun, check out the zoo. Zoo Atlanta was opened in 1889, making it Atlanta’s first and oldest zoo, and it still stands up as an outstanding experience. Two hundred animal species from all corners of the world call this zoo home, bringing to life your childrens’ storybooks and dreams. But Zoo Atlanta doesn’t stop at showing visitors these gorgeous creatures; the zoo works to protect them through various conservation efforts, including its notable commitment to giant panda conservation, and invites visitors to take action themselves. Still, there’s so much more to do at the zoo, like feed giraffes, engage with educational presentations and participate in scavenger hunts. Coming up, Zoo Atlanta will host two Nightcrawler events, in August and October, where families with children ages six and up can spend the night at the zoo, play team challenges and interactive games, take tours and learn even more about wildlife. You don’t want to miss it!

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

NOURISH

More than a Taco

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by seeking out cuisine from a diverse mix of Latin counties – you won’t be disappointed.

M Víctor Melendrez

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

any Americans aren’t aware of the complexities of many cultures across the globe. For example, not all Latin food is spicy or comes in a tortilla. As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, please don’t think of Taco Bell as the place to sample the cuisine of more than 60 million people on the planet.

With Spanish being the second most spoken language in the world, the Pew Center estimates that there are more than 500 million Hispanophones across the globe. That is, people who speak Spanish — whether natives or those for whom it is their second language. To honor the diversity within the peachtreecornerslife

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Latinx culture, Peachtree Corners Magazine met up with Victor Melendrez at his restaurant Tortuga Cuban Grill in Peachtree Corners. He was working on a big catering order for a client who was looking for authentic Cuban fare. “That’s what you get here,” he said, adding that during the holiday season he’s overrun with orders for lechon asado (roast pork), arroz congri (Cuban rice and black beans) and yuca con mojo (cassava with garlic sauce). Melendrez has been in the food service industry for more than 25 of his 53 years. He and his family emigrated from Guadalajara, Mexico when he was young. The family settled in California, like many Latinos

peachtreecornerslife

From left Mariana Castro, Víctor Melendrez and Berenice Garcia

looking for a better future. In 2005, Melendrez visited family in Georgia and realized that the cost of living was a lot lower than in the Golden State. “At one point, the economy was getting really bad, especially real estate,” he said. “When I found out that you can buy a house for $130,000 here, I was ready to move.” His first Georgia restaurant was in Buford where he had a partner in a different Cuban restaurant. He chose that cuisine because it was in the Caribbean style that he enjoyed. Besides, there are so many Mexican restaurants everywhere, he wanted to stand out. The business relationship didn’t go well, and he decided to venture

out on his own. “Partnerships are tough,” he said. “I’m not sure that’s something that I’d do again.” Researching potential areas, Peachtree Corners appeared to have the demographics he was looking for: high disposable income and not overrun with restaurants. But before he could find success, Melendrez had to educate his customers.

An introduction to Cuban cuisine “I noticed right away that not a lot of people are familiar with Cuban food,” he said. “At the beginning, especially at this location, a lot of our customers said the food was excellent, but ‘we never got our

chips and salsa.’” Melendrez smiled at this. He tried to explain the difference between different Latin American cuisines, but many patrons wrongly assumed that they were all similar to Mexican food. He explained that it was like expecting chips and salsa at an Italian restaurant. It still didn’t always sink in, but he didn’t let that frustrate him. He decided to let the food do the talking. If you asked people what they know about Cuban cuisine, they’ll mention the Cubano — a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that usually includes pickles and roast pork. It more likely originated in cafés catering to Cuban workers in Tampa or Key West than on the

island nation itself. “I like to talk to customers. And with some regulars, I try to get them to order something besides the sandwiches,” he said. “I’ll describe the ingredients and how it’s prepared, and most will try something they’ve never had before. I’ve never had anyone who said they didn’t like the new dish.” Now, after a few years, he doesn’t have to try so hard with most dishes, but on occasion he brings out samples of something like oxtails or empanadas filled with guava and cream cheese. Those have become such a hit that he sells more than 60 pounds of oxtails a week and the sweet empanadas are outselling the savory ones.

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Authenticity and commitment keep the business strong Melendrez is convinced that sticking to authentic ingredients, authentic methods and refusing to cut corners has kept him doing well in spite of the COVID pandemic. “We had to close for a few months, like everyone else,” he said. “But we are doing well now.” Food, supplies and staff are costing much more, but Melendrez said he’d rather bring in a lower profit than sacrifice service or quality. It would cost less in food and manpower to purchase pre-made empanadas, or frozen or canned ingredients, but he insists on using fresh. “I can tell,” he said. “It doesn’t taste like Mama or Grandma made it.” And he has the same philosophy with people. He’s gone up in pay for his loyal employees rather than turn the restaurant into a revolving door. “I don’t want a customer to say the same dish they had last week tastes different today,” he said. Melendrez takes his cooking seriously. In addition to hiring a Cuban chef who stressed the training he had already, he has traveled to Cuba and learned from restauranteurs and home cooks alike. “I spent days with people cooking and getting more involved with the culture and the ingredients, and that’s why a lot peachtreecornerslife

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of the people come here,” he said. “When they compare us to other Cuban restaurants — even though I’m not Cuban — they always go, ‘Oh my god, this reminds me of grandma’s cooking’ or ‘…mama’s cooking.’ It’s because, basically, I’ve been learning from mamas and grandmas from Cuba.” He added, “I don’t want a native Cuban to come in and say that this doesn’t taste like home.”

Right where he belongs The restaurant’s décor is subtly Cuban. Pictures of the streets of Havana, as well as popular beaches and famous nationals, adorn the walls. He even has a photo of a former chef with President Jimmy Carter at the entrance. “When President Carter went to Cuba, he was one of the main chefs who served their meals,” said Melendrez. On weekends, he brings in live music to help with island vibe. These days, Melendrez spends almost all his time at Tortuga Cuban Grill. “It’s good I just live two miles away,” he said. And, he added, it’s a labor of love. Before the pandemic hit, he may have thought of expansion, but Melendrez said he’s content feeding the people of Peachtree Corners the most authentic Cuban cuisine this side of Havana. “I can’t see myself doing anything else,” he said. ■ Tortugas Cuban Grill 3466 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Suite AA, Peachtree Corners 30092 470-275-5599, tortugascubangrill@gmail.com

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ART & ENTERTAINMENT

Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker Calls Peachtree Corners Home Unlikely bond between a Braves player and Mets fan earns local filmmaker an Emmy.

A By Karen Huppertz

s the 20-year anniversary of 9/11 approached last year, Kevin Allison and Bally Sports South/ Southeast Braves knew the best way to mark the solemn occasion was to look back on the singular importance one baseball game made toward the first steps of healing. When the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets took to the field for the first sporting event after the September 11 attacks, it was about much more than winning or losing.

The 7½ minute short documenta-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

ry, More Than A Game — Braves at Mets — 9/11 Remembrance, recently won a Southeast Regional Emmy Award from the Southeast chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Peachtree Corners resident Kevin Allison edited and produced the film, along with chief photographer Gregg Therieau.

Healing through sports “During the pandemic in 2020, there were a lot of discussions about missing sports and how sports help in the healing process,” said Kevin. “We were doing a lot of historical conpeachtreecornerslife

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tent at the beginning of the pandemic. A lot of former players — Chipper Jones, Brian Jordan, Tom Glavine, a lot of those guys — would refer back to their time during September 11 and how sports helped people process the tragedy.” Knowing that a year later was going to be the 20th anniversary of those tragic events, Kevin began doing a lot of research, looking at old photos and raw footage from the Braves versus Mets game that took place just 10 days after the historic terrorist attacks. He kept coming across photos of Brian Jordan with a Mets family whose hero father/ peachtreecornerslife

Opposite page, Kevin & Jaclyn Allison at the 2022 Emmys. Kevin Allison accepting the Emmy Left, Allison Family (Photos courtesy of the Allison family)

Kevin’s dream career and life

husband had perished during the World Trade Center attacks. With one iconic image of Jordan embracing the overcome-with-emotion widow, Carol Gies, Kevin knew he had found the storytelling connection he needed. “Come to find out, they had stayed in touch a little bit through the years,” said Kevin. “During the making of the feature, we actually reconnected the two of them as well.” Gies remembers the night and the painful memories surrounding those early post-9/11 days, but credits Jordan with helping her family tremendously by coming over and saying the kind words that he did.

Connecting stories to the human element Piecing together a story and finding the personal connection is what Kevin seems to enjoy most about his work. From the time he began filming interviews for the feature film to editing those 7½ minutes took about a month of work. Before beginning

interviews, from the time research began, was closer to a year. Most Braves fans will remember a Mets homerun sealed the game for the home team that night. Most fans also accept that Mets win as how the game needed to end. When asked about his approach to documentary filmmaking, Kevin stated, “For me, it has always been: what’s the connection and how do I connect the storytelling to get the human element? Especially when it comes to sports, you can be fans of the team, but how do you find the human interest for an individual?” Kevin’s wife, Jaclyn Allison, is often the first audience to judge that emotional connection. As Director Marketing, Communications and Events at Partnership Gwinnett, Jaclyn understands the subtleties of good communication and, for her job, how to create events that will draw on an individual’s or group’s desire to engage.

Jacklyn’s work with Partnership Gwinnett Partnership Gwinnett is a public/ private initiative designed to drive “economic prosperity by attracting, expanding and retaining quality businesses; aligning and developing diverse talent; and contributing to

the exceptional quality of life in Gwinnett County.” “We have three different goal areas,” explained Jaclyn. “We focus on business development, recruiting and retaining business in our community, talent development — so we work with the university and school systems to build up our talent pool, and then our community development — working a lot with entrepreneur development and small business culture. Within our goal one, business development, we focus on five target sectors: manufacturing, supply chain, technology solutions, health sciences and services and then corporate and professional services. Anything that falls within those sectors we focus on and work with our community to bring here.” Jaclyn works on a number of events that target those sectors. She’s currently working to bring The State of Technology Summit to Peachtree Corners November 10 at Atlanta Tech Park. It will bring together keynotes and speakers to talk about trends and best practices in the technology sector. She’s also very proud of her husband’s work and was the first to share that his latest Emmy is not his first. In fact, this is his eighth Southeast Regional Emmy Award.

It all comes from an honest place. Kevin Allison has been a huge sports fan his whole life and he readily admits he just enjoys TV. Combining those passions into a career is the dream. For “More Than A Game – Braves at Mets – 9/11 Remembrance,” he took a lot of care. “For something that impacted so many people, even if it was 20 years ago — and out of respect for Carol who was still willing to tell this story 20 years later — for me the goal was what’s the most respectful way to tell this story,” Kevin stated. Kevin was proud and happy this film was recognized, not so much for the personal accolades, but because of the story and the people involved. “I work with Brian Jordan every day and he is one of the best people to work with and one of the kindest people in this community,” said Kevin. Being able to share Carol and Brian’s story meant being able to recognize two of many special individuals who made a difference in those very challenging days post 9/11. Introducing you to Kevin and Jaclyn would not be complete without sharing that their Peachtree Corners family is currently a busy one, with three young children ages one, three and four. The little ones haven’t been to see the Braves play yet, but it’s inevitable. We anticipate you’ll also be seeing each of those young ones on the ballfields in and around Peachtree Corners soon. Allow yourself seven and a half minutes, grab a tissue and be inspired by More Than A Game – Braves at Mets – 9/11 Remembrance (https://twitter.com/bravesonbally/ status/1436826842791620617?s=21). ■

Scan the QR Code to view the seven and half minute video

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Kevin Allison’s Nine Emmy Awards ■ 2022, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Sports Story — News, More Than A Game — Braves at Mets — 9/11 Remembrance | Bally Sports South/Southeast (formerly Fox Sports South/Southeast) ■ 2021, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Sports Program — Live — Series, Community Heroes Week | Fox Sports South/ Southeast ■ 2016, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Documentary: Topical — Driven: Michael Waltrip Racing — Life in the Pits | Fox Sports South/Southeast ■ 2014, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Television News and Program Specialty Excellence Category: Sports Program Series — DRIVEN: THE CHIPPER JONES STORY | Fox Sports South/Southeast ■ 2013, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Television News and Program Specialty Excellence Category: Sports Program Series — DRIVEN: Tougher. Faster. Stronger.

The 2013 Bobcats Draft | Fox Sports South/Southeast ■ 2013, College Sports Media Award: Outstanding Achievement, Regional/Local Networks: Program Series — Under The Lights: Southern Miss Baseball | Fox Sports South/Southeast ■ 2013, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Television News and Program Specialty Excellence Category: Sports Program Series — Under the Lights: Southern Miss Baseball | Fox Sports South/Southeast ■ 2009, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Television Programming Excellence Category: Interview/Discussion — In My Own Words: Charles Barkley | Fox Sports South/ Southeast ■ 2007, Southeast Regional Emmy Award: Outstanding Achievement, Television News & Program Specialty Excellence Category: Sports News Program — University of Tennessee Hoops Preview | Fox Sports South/Southeast

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Submit a photo of you with your pet for our PETS & THEIR PEOPLE issue of Peachtree Corners Magazine. Follow us on social media or sign-up for our newsletter. You and your pet could be our next PET STAR @peachtreecornerslife. There may even be a prize or two in there somewhere!

PHOTO SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPT 15TH u LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com/PetsTheirPeople2022

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August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Local Author Spotlight: Ellie Raine’s Successful Story in Self-Publishing

llie Raine is a Peachtree Corners resident with nine book titles to her name, most notably the NecroSeam Chronicles, which consist of a series of five epic fantasy novels and two prequels. Her writing has earned her recognition as a two-time winner of the Readers’ Favorite in the International Book Awards and first place in the fantasy division for Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published Book Awards in 2019,

as well as a couple other awards.

The NecroSeam Chronicles even have their own website, necroseam. com, which is themed around their fantastical namesake. There, Raine regularly engages with her active fanbase on her blog, posts her own artwork (and fanart, coming soon), sells merchandise, promotes her upcoming events and provides notes and a glossary on the world she’s built. There’s even a personality quiz you can take to find out what knight you are! (I’m a BladeSworn.) But who is Ellie Raine? How did her writing expand beyond her series to build a fantastic universe?

A visionary from the beginning

By Ivy Marie Clarke

Raine explained that her love of magic goes back to her childhood. “I was a huge fantasy nerd, like the rest of my family,” she said. “I grew up on Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, books with dragons, Harry Potter, King Author, Final Fantasy, Zelda, tons of anime, the Hobbit, Lord of the Rings — you name it. If it

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

didn’t have knights in shining armor, magic sorcerers and fire-breathing dragons, I wasn’t interested.” The joy she found from video games, storytelling and fantasy led her down the path of video game art and design, so she enrolled at the Art Institute of Atlanta to gain an education in that field. While she was enrolled, she took a creative writing course and started telling the story of the game she was developing. She found that she liked the writing format better than video game development, so she switched fields. “It was so much more fulfilling. It was like something just clicked, and I’ve been writing ever since,” Raine said. Today, that video game turned creative writing assignment has turned into the NecroSeam Chronicles.

The NecroSeam Chronicles It took Raine over 10 years to write the epic, gothic, high fantasy series for which she is best known. In addition to Terry Pratchett, Raine said she peachtreecornerslife

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draws inspiration from Rachel Aaron and Brandon Sanderson (notable for his creation of the Cosmere fictional universe) as well as from her own life. “Being present in the moment is probably the most effective tool for sparking creativity, especially for fantasy. I have a lot of fun asking, ‘what if things worked this way instead?’, and those are the questions that usually prompt a new story,” Raine said. The Necroseam Chronicles have been described as “[i]f Tim Burton had written Lord of the Rings” by Vincent E.M. Thorn, author of the Dreamscape Voyager Trilogy. “They are an epic fantasy series about twin necromancer brothers who were born with split abilities to control the dead,” is how Raine described the NecroSeam Chronicles in a TikTok video. “One resurrects corpses, the other puts souls inside them, so together, they kind of make one necromancer. But one of the brothers gets his soul ripped out of his body and trapped inside his brother, so they go on a journey to figure out what happened to the othpeachtreecornerslife

er brother’s body, and on the way, as they’re crossing over all these other kingdoms, they run into demons, they run into dragons. So, it’s a lot of fun. It’s magic-adventure.” The series contains so much lore and worldbuilding that it spills out of its own pages. Raine has created an oracle deck based on the series (similar to a tarot deck, it’s a loose collection of cards that assist in self-reflection) that she often performs readings with during interviews and at conventions. There are maps (because all the best fantasy novels have maps), songs sung in the audio versions of the books using the language that Raine created and explanations of how her fantasy world operates — its laws, symbols and belief systems. The process of creating this series was a “passion project” in itself for Raine. Though the first two books were traditionally published, the author decided to self-publish her third book onwards. “It was a wildly different experience, but to be honest, there’s

something freeing about learning what exactly goes into publishing. The logistics can be dizzying, but eye-opening for why traditional publishers make the decisions they do,” she said. With self-publishing, Raine said she’s become educated on market trends, book advertising and marketing. She’s also built close relationships with her cover artists and audiobook narrators, and the latter have their own profiles on the NecroSeam Chronicles’s website (www. necroseam.com/audiobooks.).

More Ellie Raine Though the NecroSeam Chronicles

are complete, Raine said she does have plans in the works for projects that exist in the same universe: one is a standalone NecroSeam novel with different characters in a different part of the same universe, another is an epic fantasy novel that plays with shadow-magic. An audiobook of “Pearl of Emerald,” the third NecroSeam book, is scheduled to be released this fall or winter. For younger readers or those who don’t have a taste for violence, Raine has also created a children’s illustration book that she originally wrote and illustrated for her then-two-year-old daughter. It’s called “Ballad of the Ice Fairy,” and it’s “[a]n enchanting children’s illustration book with beautiful colors and a lovely story of courage, magic and healing,” according to its description. “Honestly, writing the series and the noir novella was insanely easier than the children’s illustration book, mostly because I’m much slower at creating visual art than I am at writing. It was a huge part of why I switched over in college,” Raine explained. “It took years to finish the children’s book, instead of my (previously) usual six-month turnaround for novels. But I’m still insanely proud to have finished it, and I definitely plan to do another one when I have another concept to obsess over.” In addition to finding new genres and new subjects to try her hand at, Raine’s had to adjust to a new routine as a mother in her 30s and post COVID-19. While she used to pull all-nighters writing, fueled by caffeine and hyper-fixations, she said that nowadays her daughter keeps her awake all day, especially with the reduced childcare availability caused by the pandemic. “The progress is drastically slower than the old days, but one of the most important mantras to keep in mind for any writer is ‘Any pace is

Opposite page, Author, Ellie Raine This page, far left, Raine’s children’s book Left and down, Raine’s merchandise Above, a sampling of her books

better than no pace,’” Raine said. For aspiring writers, she also loves to share this piece of advice: “You can’t edit what doesn’t exist, and you can’t take care of your story if you don’t take care of yourself first.”

Keep up with the author Raine is currently hosting a NecroSeam fanart competition through July 30. All entries will be featured in the website’s upcoming fanart gallery as well as across Raine’s social media channels; winners will be awarded special additional prizes. Find more information on her blog on the NecroSeam website. You can also catch her live in the upcoming months, including the Savannah Mega Comic Con on July 30-31, the Key City Steampunk Festival on Aug. 12-14, the Multiverse Fandom Convention on Oct. 14-16, Anime Weekend Atlanta on Oct. 27-16 and CONjuration on Nov. 4-6. In the meantime, follow Ellie Raine on TikTok and Instagram, like her Facebook page, subscribe to her YouTube and bookmark both her personal website, ellieraine.com, and the NecroSeam website, necroseam. com. You can purchase her books directly from her online store or listen to them on Audible. ■

Scan the QR Code to visit necroseam.com and find out more about Ellie Raine Peachtree Corners Magazine

COMMUNITY

Embracing Multiple Cultures: Hispanic Heritage Month Latina author, publisher, educator and entrepreneur encourages everyone to embrace Hispanic Heritage Month, no matter your race or ethnicity

hen Nury Castillo Crawford sought a publisher for her children’s book based on her life immigrating from Peru to the United States, she realized that her vision

By Arlinda Smith Broady

wasn’t met with open arms. Like many industries, publishing is dominated by White males.

Many book publishers utilize a formula or algorithm for predicting successful sales. Even though in the last few decades, books that didn’t necessarily fit the old standards have been huge blockbusters, many companies aren’t willing to take the risk. “When I was ready to release my book, I had some interest because at that time there was a lot of chatter around immigration and immigrant status,” she said referring to then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s push for tougher

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

immigration laws. But there was no assurance that she’d have much control over the final product. “I couldn’t get any guarantees that the title would stay the same. And the title was actually personal for me,” she said. “The characters [might not stay] as I imagined them to be because the story was based on my journey as an immigrant, and they didn’t know why I needed the girl and the mom, etcetera, to be brown. I didn’t need them to be lightened up. Some of those things were very important to me. I needed the book to be bilingual and they told me that bilingual didn’t sell.” peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Faith and conviction lead to a publishing business It was a hard decision for Crawford to make — compromise her standards or take a chance that the book deal wouldn’t happen. After much soul-searching, she decided to step out on faith. “I was like, well I’m not changing it because it doesn’t fit your box,” said Crawford. “And I pretty much resolved to myself that even if I sell not one copy, at least this will be a little bit of a biography for years to come. So when I die, my great-great-grandkids could still look at the book and be like, ‘Oh this is the journey of my family peachtreecornerslife

Present at the grand opening were GCPS teacher Ainsley Clarke, Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, President Veronica Maldonado Torres and many others.

to focus on multilingualism. She started out with Spanish and branched out to other languages such as traditional Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and French.

Respecting and celebrating our variety of heritages

coming to this country.’” 1010 Publishing was founded as a result of her wanting to get a book published but being unwilling to sacrifice her values and her story. That was more than five years ago and Crawford, who is also director of Academic Support for Gwinnett County Public Schools and the president of the Georgia Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, has published several books since — those she’s written and those of other authors. Her vision for the company is

Crawford’s heritage is important to her, and she prides herself on being American as well as Peruvian. As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, she encourages everyone to embrace their roots, but also be open to learning about others. Asian populations are the fastest growing minority group in the United States, but Hispanics have been the largest minority group in the country for about 20 years — and the numbers continue to grow. There are census predictions that by 2025, 25% of children in this country will have Latinx roots. “Just like any other community, we need to be not only very diligent and committed to ensuring that we are being represented, but we need to hold onto our heritage,” Crawford said. A friend who had immigrated from Venezuela had told a story of her daughter who was reluctant to speak Spanish at school. She didn’t want to be singled out as different, even though there is a pretty significant population of Hispanic children there. Pop singer Justin Bieber had released a Spanish-language version of his hit song, Despacito, and several students were trying to sing the lyrics. The girl’s family mainly spoke Spanish at home and her command of the language was perfect. She helped her friends with the lyrics, and they were amazed at how “smart” she was. Although she shouldn’t need a popular song to boost her self-esteem about who she is, Crawford said those types of stories are commonplace. “We need our culture to be embraced by all of our leaders in every aspect, in every in every venue of our community, because research tells us that when people feel seen, heard and respected, you’re going to get the sense of community that you’re looking for,” she said. “Until people feel like

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Goals of equality and literacy

GCPS teacher and author reading to the kids on a Saturday.

they’re genuinely part of the [community], there is no real unity.” Jordan House, K-12 Chapel Leader at Greater Atlanta Christian School agreed that it is important to highlight other cultures as part of education. “God created humans in His image, and the fact that He created us with different characteristics represents His creativity and desire to have different aspects of His image shown,” he said. “Helping gain awareness of culture, appreciating it, celebrating it, pointing to

God as the creator [is an important part of education]. In years past, we’ve done a tour of countries and highlighted many aspects that are unique and beautiful.” He added that Hispanic Heritage Month is another way to teach God’s love. “From my viewpoint, the goal is to educate, gain awareness, gain appreciation, celebrate and honor specifically Hispanic culture. If we honor God by honoring His beautiful creation, then we’ve done our job!” he said.

It’s Back

Crawford said the challenge of putting everyone — not just minorities — on a parity with the status quo isn’t unique to Gwinnett County but does seem to be slow to overcome. “I feel like the change that we desperately need to see is not going to come forward as fast as we need to see it,” she said. “And that makes a lot of sense, you know in comparison to how African Americans have been a significant part of the United States population for a long time, but it was just a year ago that Juneteenth was recognized as a national holiday.” She pointed to states like California, Florida and Texas where many Latinx families have lived for several generations. They are business owners, government officials and citizens who are very active in how the community is run. “Many of the Hispanic and Latino families in Georgia are first or second generation,” Crawford said. “And most of them are not proficient in English. The majority of them are learning and there are different levels of acquisition of language.” That’s kind of where Crawford’s latest endeavor comes in. Earlier this year, she opened THE little BOOK SPOT, a multilingual bookstore with a focus on diversity

— diversity in ability, language, culture, ethnicity and race — in the Plaza Las Americas, perhaps the largest Hispanic-focused mall in the area. Currently the hours of operation are noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Find out more at thelittlebookspot.godaddysites.com. “One of the things that popped in my brain as I was talking to other Latino leaders was that when you go to a regular American mall… there’s always a bookstore inside it or nearby. It’s the opposite for our malls where mostly Latino people frequent,” she said. So Crawford made it a goal to increase literacy, especially in the Latino community. Although she mainly writes children’s books, the store has something for everyone. “I think we all need to be engaged and involved in learning and not leaving it up to somebody else. We should all try to be inclusive within our own lives,” she said. The titles in her store run the gamut and don’t just focus on Latino and Hispanic cultures. “If you can’t name one friend from another culture, that’s a problem to me,” she said. “We should all do our best to try to learn about other people.” And one of the best places to start is inside a book. ■

Books by Nury Castillo Crawford 3,585 Miles to be an American Girl (ages 4-7) — English and Spanish A Long Journey to Safety — English and Vietnamese

BE PART OF OUR

PETS&THEIR PEOPLE ISSUE

Hispanic Mentoring: A quick guide to jump start your own mentoring program I Love You No Matter What – English, Korean and traditional Chinese

OCT/NOV

Marisol — English and Spanish Plant the Seed Well…Expect Wonders: A Parents’ Guide to making sense of parenting in the 21st century — English and Spanish

Sofia and Vivi: A Bilingual Children’s Book: Big Sister — English and Spanish What is going on in the World? – English and Spanish Women Who Lead Featuring Latina Leaders: Featuring Nury Castilla Crawford — English and Spanish

PHOTO SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPT 15TH LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com/PetsTheirPeople2022

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

From the Mayor’s Desk

Update on the Corners Connector Trail System – We have come a long way Peachtree Corners is fortunate to have amazing outdoor amenities we can all enjoy, such as the Chattahoochee River, parks, streams, and a wonderful Town Center. Everyone who enjoys being outside takes advantage of these areas of our community. Additionally, according to the National Association of Realtors, recent studies have confirmed living near trails and greenways will likely raise your property value an average of 3-5% and sometimes even as high as 15%. Approximately seven years ago, the City began

work on a way to connect our City through the creation of our multi-use trail system, the Corners Connector. Through various state funding sources, several locations and feasibility studies have been completed that serve as the foundation of planning for the ultimate build-out of this trail. It began in 2015 with the completion of the Peachtree Corners Livable Centers Initiative, which was funded by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). This was one of the first projects that identified the base location for the final trail system. Over the years, several projects followed that in-

cluded studies for the Winters Chapel Road & Holcomb Bridge Road corridors, the Comprehensive Transportation Plan, Innovation Hub Master Plan, and the Innovative District Trails Study. This planning reinforced and further developed the idea of a master trail system in Peachtree Corners. Since that time, the city has continued to construct and expand the trail network, and when complete, it will consist of over 13 miles of trails that crisscross the city and provide connections to a variety of places people live, work, and play. Most recently, the ARC funded a study of feasibility on a specific segment and location of the Corners Connector along Crooked Creek from Spalding Drive east to Peachtree Parkway. The Corners Connector Crooked Creek project is a longrange plan that will ultimately provide nearly 3 miles of trail at a cost of approximately $13 million. This project involves environmental permitting and procurement of easements, so the timeline is extended. In the shorter term, the City is pursuing federal funding for a segment of the trail from Peachtree Corners Circle to Peachtree Parkway, which is approximately 7,400 feet. The hope is to obtain funding for planning, engineering, environmental permitting and construction of this segment as a first phase of the ultimate project that extends all the way to Spalding Drive.

Be sure to visit the city’s new YouTube Channel Peachtree Corners Network at Youtube.com/peachtreecornersnetwork

Mike Mason, Mayor

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.

Peachtree Corners City Hall 310 Technology Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Telephone: 678-691-1200

continued on page 72 August/September 2022 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS continued from page 71 The ultimate buildout of the Corners Connector is an exciting goal to look forward to over the coming years, but some segments of the Connector have already been completed. Corners Connector Tech Park Lake was completed in 2020 and includes over 1600 feet of trail around the lake adjacent to Technology Parkway and Technology Parkway South. This segment connects to over 4,300 feet of the Connector along Technology Parkway and Engineering Drive. Phase II of the Corners Connector around the lake is currently under development and when constructed, will complete the circuit around the lake with an additional 2,600 feet of trail. This will provide an even greater amenity to those residents who live nearby and to the office workers who enjoy direct access. Corners Connector Town Center is presently undergoing construction. This project is directly adjacent to the pe-

destrian bridge over Peachtree Parkway and the Lazy Dog Restaurant. This trail will connect those areas to the eastern most portions of the Town Center and Town Green, along with connections to Peachtree Corners Circle and the development to the south of the stream. Stream connections and a boardwalk along the stream’s banks are included, along with a skywalk segment that will provide a bird’s eye view of the stream below. It will add 2,400 feet to the Corners Connector system, and with its connection to Peachtree Corners Circle, the system will have a connection along Medlock Bridge Road and South Old Peachtree Road to existing multi-use trails in Duluth. The Burdell Branch segment is currently under development by the planning and engineering team. This portion of the system will connect Engineering Drive south to Woodhill Drive for approximately 4,900 feet of additional trail. An existing segment of Corners Connector currently ends at Engineering Drive and

Peachtree Parkway in front of the Corners Fine Wine & Spirits and RaceTrac, and this project will extend that trail infrastructure south to the Chick-fil-A area and its adjacent shopping centers. The City is finalizing the construction of the 9,200-foot segment of the Corners Connector Riverlands segment along East Jones Bridge Road. This segment connects Jones Bridge Park east to the existing multi-use trail along Peachtree Parkway. The project is part of the Chattahoochee Riverlands project (www.chattahoocheeriverlands. com), which includes a trail system that connects Newnan to the Buford Dam along the Chattahoochee River corridor. While the City would prefer to build each new segment in coordination with the completion of a previous segment, there are several barriers that inhibit that process. Construction, in general, comes with a variety of challenges including current construction in an area, environmental studies and assessments, archeological

studies, potential right of way acquisition, and funding. The City continues to investigate multiple funding sources including federal and state grants, direct City funding, and partnerships. For the future, the City is exploring the possibility of the construction of a pedestrian bridge that will span the Chattahoochee in or around the area of the original Jones Bridge. A project of this type requires a partnership with Johns Creek, and discussions have begun between our jurisdictions. As you can see, exciting things are underway and already in place for Corners Connector, and we continue to work towards many more amazing additions in the future.

typical driving behavior or driver expectancy are unsafe. Additionally, double parking is illegal in all circumstances. Double parking is the term used

for parking on the street side of any vehicle that’s stopped or parked at a curb. Other violations include prohibitions against parking in the

Stay safe, Mike Mason, Mayor

On-street Parking – Be safe, be courteous On-Street Parking means designated spaces where vehicles can be parked on a temporary basis, located on a public highway, street, avenue, parkway, or similar type of road. On-street parking spaces often provide direct access to residential, commercial, office, and other facilities. While on-street parking is legal on public roads, there are rules that must be followed. The State of Georgia requires that on any two-way road, all street parked cars must be parked with the right-side wheels parallel and within 12 inches of the curb. Do not park against the flow of traffic. While it might seem safe when the car is parked, you would need to drive on the wrong side of the road to park. The same applies when you pull out into

head-on traffic. This creates two potentially dangerous situations and sets up a scenario that is contrary to other drivers’ expectations. Most things contrary to

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ August/September 2022 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS following areas: ■ In a space on public or private property marked for vehicle parking for the handicapped unless you have the legal authorization and the plates or placards to prove it. ■ Within 25 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection, or sideline of a street or intersecting highway, except at alleys ■ Within 20 feet of a fire station without signs. If they post signs, you are not allowed to park within 75 feet of the station. ■ Between a safety zone for pedestrians and the adjacent curb or within 20 feet of the end of the safety zone ■ On the sidewalk or within 20 feet of a crosswalk ■ Within an intersection ■ In a crosswalk ■ In any tunnel ■ On railroad tracks or within

■ ■

■ ■ ■

50 feet of a railroad crossing unless you are loading or unloading Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant Within 30 feet of a stop sign, traffic light, or flashing signal In a bus stop zone In front of a public or private driveway Near properly marked street construction

In addition to illegal parking, there are other things that should be done to ensure the safety of your parked vehicle as well as the surrounding community. On limited-width feeder roads, cars should refrain from parking across from each other on opposite sides of the road. (See image). This is not only unsafe for pedestrians; it creates a bottleneck on the road that increases traffic conflict points.

Also, when cars are parked across from one another, the limited width of the road creates a safety hazard as it does not allow for the entrance and exit of school buses, sanitation trucks, construction vehicles, EMS and fire vehicles, or other larger vehicles into or away from the area. If your car has mirrors that will push inwards, towards the driver’s window, always do this before leaving your vehicle. This will prevent your mirrors from becoming broken or dislodged due to being sideswiped by a passing driver. Do not park your car on a street where no other cars seem to be parked. Even if there are no signs saying that you cannot park on the street, there may be a rule that the other drivers are aware of. If a street is completely devoid of parked cars, there is probably a reason why. Take the hint from other drivers and steer clear of it. Street parking that

seems too good to be true probably is. Do not block other cars. Leaving enough space ensures that everyone’s cars will stay free from dents and dings. If it doesn’t seem like drivers and passengers can move around freely once you park, find a different spot. Don’t take up two spaces on the street. In residential areas where the parking spaces are limited and not marked, always park as close to the end of the open space as you can. Often there is room for two cars between driveways. If you park in the middle, you make it impossible for another car to park in that space. Remember, safety is of the utmost importance. Street parking can be dangerous to vehicle owners, bicyclists, scooters, and walkers. Let’s all do our best to be safe and courteous.

Lightning Safety Tips for Homeowners It’s that time of year again when the clash of cool air from the north with warm air from the gulf gives us inevitable strong thunderstorms. These storms can cause untold damage to your home and the electronics inside. A few Lightning Facts: ■ Lightning is a powerful burst of electricity that occurs in all thunderstorms. ■ On average, a single lightning bolt is hotter than the surface of the sun and can reach temperatures around 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. ■ One-quarter of all lightning strikes are from the cloud to the ground. When lightning strikes the ground, it seeks out the shortest path to an object with a positive charge, this might be a tree, building, house, or even you.

What can you do to help reduce the chance of damage to your home or injury to you and

your family? The Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) recommends protecting your valuable electronic equipment by using dependable Surge Protectors listed for lightning protection for both the power and cable/phone, not the cheaper power strip, but the surge protection that is fused. The cost of point-of-use surge protectors will vary, but if you are interested in protecting your equipment this is your best bet. You can also ask Georgia Power

about their surge defender system that can be installed for a small fee each month. This will help protect your appliances and electronics but will not stop the threat of fire from a direct strike. To protect your property, it is recommended to install a Lightning Protection System (lightning rods on your roof). A good lightning protection system for the house can run from $2,500.00 to over $4,000.00. How Lightning protection systems work: A home lightning protection

Be sure to visit the city’s new YouTube Channel Peachtree Corners Network at Youtube.com/peachtreecornersnetwork

system consists of air terminals, conductor cables, and ground rods. The air terminals, which are also referred to as lightning rods, serve as the strike receptor. They come in many shapes and sizes. The conductor cables are heavy braided copper or aluminum cables connected to the air terminals and run across the top, edges of the roof and down the side of the structure to the ground rods. They carry the lightning current from the air terminals to the ground rods. The ground rods are thick heavy rods buried deep to provide the lightning strike a safe place for the energy to discharge and dissipate without damaging your structure. The cables and ground rods are the most important components in the system accomplishing the main objective of diverting lightning current safely past a structure. This system should always be installed by a licensed electrician. Hopefully, most of us will never have to deal with the effect of a lightning strike, however, it is best to be informed and prepared.

August/September 2022 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Curiosity Lab Offers A Very Unique Environment The future of smart cities and intelligent mobility innovation relies on the continued evolution of internet of things (IoT) technology, a market that is projected to grow to $555.8 billion in 2028, up from $383.1 billion in 2021. There is clearly huge potential here for both private and public entities to develop new IoT technologies and help create solutions that benefit consumers and businesses everywhere. Long aware of this growth potential, the City of Peachtree Corners began to explore opportunities to help the industry prosper a few years ago. City leaders noticed there was one key step missing in the development process for many IoT technologies: the opportunity to test the technology in a controlled, living laboratory environment. Peachtree Corners launched Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners in 2019 to fill this need and pave the way forward for the development of IoT technologies

autonomous vehicles). The track is part of an existing roadway through a commercial technology park. Cars and pedestrians cross over it in more than 30 places as they go to their homes or workplaces. More than 10,000 people work in this technology park, while another 2,000 people live here.

to park for advanced vehicles not actively testing. The 30-by-28-foot Innovation Garage offers drive-in access, a lift, work benches, electric vehicle charging stations, and 5G connectivity. The climate-controlled environment provides both privacy and an expanded workspace. Sitting right next to the autono-

that can support smart city and intelligent mobility innovation. Curiosity Lab’s unique facilities and infrastructure and its location within an existing 500-acre technology park create realistic conditions that enable robotics, artificial intelligence solutions, autonomous services, and countless more use cases to be optimized and ultimately scaled for the suburban and urban landscapes of tomorrow. For example, Curiosity Lab’s three-mile test track can accommodate advanced vehicle testing, from driver-assist concepts found in most cars today, all the way up to Level 5 technology (fully

This provides a real-world setting that is not controlled and thereby extremely valuable for companies who need to test their technologies in the wild. Companies also can use Curiosity Lab’s Ford-Edge-based test vehicle to develop advanced mobility and autonomous technologies. Companies working on fully autonomous driving systems, mapping, light detection/ranging (LiDAR), cameras/computer vision, radar, V2X systems, and/or data simulation can place their technologies on the vehicle and gather data as the vehicle interacts with pedestrians, other cars, traffic lights and more. Curiosity Lab offers a safe place

mous vehicle track, the Innovation Center is the ecosystem hub of Curiosity Lab. These 25,000 square feet of light colorful space is filled with early-stage startups, tech companies, and corporate innovation teams all testing new technologies and exchanging ideas. One of the main features of the Innovation Center are the multiple available workspaces. From individual desk space to full offices, the Center offers a variety of choices. In addition to workspace, there are several meeting room options from offices that seat two, to a conference room that seats 15. Additionally, there is a large event space that can host more than 100

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ August/September 2022 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

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people and can be used for corporate innovation offsite events, entrepreneurial classes, and technology community events. The event space includes a stage as well as access to the kitchen facilities for use by caterers. The Innovation Center houses open workspaces for companies and the Prototype Design Lab, a lab that offers bench space, handheld tools, and multiple 3D printers to help design, build and tinker with hardware prototypes. Additionally, companies may bring in any additional tools that they need to work on, modify, or complete their design work. The Innovation Center is perfect for coding bootcamps, technical training seminars, pitch practices, and more. Its special event space, which can host more than 100 people, is ideal for corporate innovation offsite events, entrepreneurial classes, and technology community events. The podcasting room is one of the latest additions, helping com-

panies enter the popular world of podcasting, which now has 424.2 million listeners worldwide. Curiosity Lab’s new and improved podcasting room includes a soundboard with four microphones and video capabilities to help users record content for target audiences. Users can leverage their own podcasting software in conjunction with this high-quality plug-andplay system. Innovation Center members are welcome to book the podcasting room to record & broadcast their technology news.

PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Warning for Pet Owners – Toxic Blue-Green Algae

Georgia Tech Coding Boot Camp Become a Web Developer in 24 Weeks Classes start on October 17th Part-Time Schedule / In-Person Format / Weeknight Classes Georgia Tech Coding Boot Camp equips learners with the market-driven skills needed for careers as full stack web developers. Participate in engaging classes — held in person at the Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners — and master the fundamental technologies behind front end and back end development. ■ IN-DEMAND SKILLS: Learn HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, jQuery, C#, ASP.Net, Bootstrap, Express.js, React.js, Node.js, Database Theory, MongoDB, MySQL, Command Line, and Git. Toxic Blue-Green Algae, or Cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms that naturally live in lakes and ponds. With a combination of warm weather, sunlight, and nutrients, still waters can produce large amounts of algae that can cover and discolor the water. Exposure to this type of algae can cause health issues in humans and animals when touched or ingested.

How to detect and avoid:

Dangers Associated

■ Rinse off your pet with clean water immediately ■ Do not let your pet lick their fur or paws ■ Call your veterinarian (If caught early enough, the vet can flush out most of the toxins) ■ Wear gloves to protect yourself and then wash with soap and water

The main danger linked with blue-green algae is it can be toxic or deadly to animals when consumed in high concentrations. Dogs are more susceptible due to their tendency to play in and ingest water containing these algae. Animals could die within hours of exposure to blue-green algae bloom. There is also no remedy for blue-green algae poison, so prevention is the most effective measure. The poison produced can cause rashes, cramps, nausea diarrhea, and liver problems in humans.

Signs that your dog may have BlueGreen Algae Poisoning Symptoms may show up between 20 minutes to 5 days after exposure ■ Vomiting or Diarrhea ■ Drooling ■ Disoriented or Weakness ■ Difficulty Breathing ■ Loss of consciousness

■ If the water has a blue-green, yellow, white, or brown paint-like appearance ■ Looks like ‘Pea Soup’ ■ If the water smells or tastes nauseating ■ Dogs are attracted to the smell and taste, so keep them leashed around detected waters

If you or your pet comes in contact:

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/ blue-green-algae/ https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/bluegreenalgae/faq.htm

■ PART-TIME SCHEDULE: Attend weeknight classes — three hours per class, three times a week — and continue working while you prepare for your next professional move. ■ HANDS-ON LEARNING: Team up with your classmates to get real-world experience, collaborate on complex projects, and build applications that demonstrate your knowledge. Rewarding Program Benefits ■ Build an impressive portfolio of web applications to showcase your technical proficiency and problem-solving skills. ■ Access a network of more than 250+ employers who are seeking candidates with strong full stack coding experience. ■ Partner with our Career Services team for personalized resume support, portfolio reviews, and one-on-one career coaching. ■ Receive a Certificate of Completion from Georgia Tech Professional Education. Learn more or apply today at bootcamp. pe.gatech.edu/coding/ or scan the QR CODE BELOW:

https://www.usgs.gov/centers/kswsc/science/ cyanobacterial-blue-green-algal-bloomstastes-odors-and-toxins-0?qt-science_center_ objects=0#qt-science_center_objects https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/bluegreen-algae-symptoms-tips/

Be sure to visit the city’s new YouTube Channel Peachtree Corners Network at Youtube.com/peachtreecornersnetwork

August/September 2022 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

Above clockwise, from the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber Mayor’s Panel, from left, Bill Diehl, Margie Asef, Mayors Mike Mason, Lois Salter and Craig Newton; the banquet room for the event at the Crown Plaza Atlanta NE - Norcross; Drakos Clinical Laboratories CEO Heather Drake Bianchi; Norcross City Council Member Matt Myers, Margie Asef and Bruce Johnson. Photos by Bruce Johnson

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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come party with the corners. more events coming soon. visit cornersatl.com to learn more. follow us on iG @cornersatl.

August/September 2022 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Welcome to Waterside. A gated, master-planned, age-in-place community situated along the shores of the Chattahoochee.

Waterside is a community where aging in place is not only possible, but desirable. With multiple housing options for a range of life stages and an abundance of both passive and active amenities that take full advantage of the stunning river vistas, Waterside is poised to become a destination, age in place community where

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residents can enjoy a high quality, low-maintenance lifestyle. The location sits within one mile of the shopping, dining

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and entertainment venues at The Forum and the new Town

Condos Coming Soon

Center at Peachtree Corners. The residential neighborhoods will include low maintenance single-family homes, townhomes and condos. A future phase of the community is planned to include independent living, assisted living and memory care facilities for owners 55 and older.

Amenities • Clubhouse with fitness center and kitchen • Multiple large lawn spaces for community gatherings • Resort-style pool • Large riverfront pavilion with decks and fire pit overlooking the river • Groomed walking trails along the river frontage and throughout the community • Gated entrance and private roads approved for golf cart access • 0.75 Miles of river frontage.

Join Our VIP List! 470.514.6999 WatersidePeachtreeCorners.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Kelly Kim T H E K E L LY K I M T E A M

c. 678.464.4929 | KellyKim@ansleyre.com

400 Buford Hwy - STE 1106 | Suwanee, GA 30024 404.480.4663

BUCKHEAD

I N TOW N

EAST COBB

M A R I E T TA

Equal Housing Opportunity

NORTH

S U WA N E E

Luxury senior living designed by you. Bungalows | Cottages | Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care Village Park Alpharetta

12300 Morris Road Alpharetta, GA 30005

Village Park Peachtree Corners

Village Park Milton

5701 Spalding Drive Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

555 Wills Road Alpharetta, GA 30009

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2022 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Magazine - August / September 2022

Articles inside

Embracing Multiple Cultures: Hispanic Heritage Month

Local Author Spotlight: Ellie Raine’s Successful Story in Self-Publishing

More than a Taco

Expand Your Kids’ Knowledge with Great Field Trips

Fun with Science

PTC Anchors ATL Unlocked Event

The Secret to Israel’s Start-up Ecosystems Success Through the Eyes of a PTC Local

A Little Italy in Peachtree Corners Makes Extending an Olive Branch a Symbol of Health

In the Beginning

City and Business Association Work Together for Community Success

All My Rowdy Friends