Peachtree Corners Magazine - Dec. 2019/Jan. 2020

FITNESS & FRIENDSHIPS FOR THE WIN!

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

PEACHTREE CORNERS DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020 ISSUE 6

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LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

MAILED TO EVERY HOUSEHOLD IN THE CITY!

20 UNDER 20

YMCA HONORS RESIDENT WITH NEW PLAYGROUND PAGE 44

MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY FOODS & DESSERTS PAGE 40

POSTAL CUSTOMER

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US Postage PAID Monroe, GA Permit #15

GROWING BETTER, NOT JUST BIGGER.

Northside Hospital and Gwinnett Medical Center have joined forces to bring better health care to the communities we serve. We don’t take this mission lightly.

That’s why our new system unites our many convenient locations, our broad network of distinguished physicians and extensive array of comprehensive services. Because exceptional health care isn’t any one thing. It’s everything.

Welcome to your Northside.

northside.com

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December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

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CONTENTS EVENTS

First Up

8

BUSINESS LIFE

Tandem Bank—Working Together with Businesses to Move Forward

11

KNOWLEDGE

Education & Experiences

16

MOVE

Exercise Groups in Peachtree Corners— Fitness & Friendships for the Win! 20 BELIEVE

Walk Through Bethlehem Showcases Christmas Spirit

29 20 UNDER 20

28

Simple Gifts, Treats for Breakfast and Other Ways to Celebrate the Holidays 38 COVER STORY

20 Uunder 20

29

Up and Coming

37

NOURISH

My Favorite Holiday Foods & Desserts 40 COMMUNITY

20 FITNESS & FRIENDSHIPS FOR THE WIN!

YMCA Honors Peachtree Corners Resident with New Playground

44

Changing Inmates’ Lives with Man’s Best Friend

46

Veterans Day Service at Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument

50

SPACES

Fiserv Property Sold to Local Builder for 55+ Development

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OFFICIAL CITY NEWS

Inside Peachtree Corners

On the Cover Our 20 Under 20 students. You may notice 21 on the cover and that’s because two brothers submitted together. Photos submitted by parents or guardians.

44 YMCA Playground Honoring Manning

Top row, left to right: Savannah Whitmer, Camille Hollier, Cem Altikulac, Cimone Jefferson, Georgia Whitmer Second row from top, left to right: Trey Dixon, Braden Thorne, Smit Patel, Heather Flanagan Third row from top, left to right: Aubrey DeAugustinis, Alp Altikulac, Nadia Jones, Kate Fuhr, Lizzy Stainback, Myra Wu

Changing Inmates’ Lives 46 with Man’s Best Friend

My Favorite Holiday Foods 40 & Desserts

Bottom row, left to right: Melina Jackson, Evan Johnson, Charlotte Burts, Riley Keller, Elle Dougherty, Kaitlyn Williams Photography of 4 cover images by George Hunter, with assistance by Blue.

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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PEACHTREECORNERS EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

KATHY DEAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

CHARLENE ROMEO charlene@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

JULIE DAVIS

Account Executive

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

CHARLENE ROMEO Account Executive

Charlene is very accomplished in advertising sales. She started her career selling newsprint and later sold television advertising for 20 plus years in the Atlanta market for all the cable networks. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends attending concerts, biking and playing racquetball.

PEACHTREECORNERS PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. 4305 River Stream Circle, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678-358-7858 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com Peachtree Corners Magazine is published four times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine.

The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission.

Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines.

December 2019/January 2020 issue Volume 1 Number 6 ©2019 Peachtree Corners Magazine The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@ livinginpeachtreecorners.com.

This publication is privately owned and managed.

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THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE RICO FIGLIOLINI

KATHY DEAN

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.

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.

Publisher & Executive Editor

Contributing Editor

PATRIZIA WINSPER

RITA FIGLIOLINI

Writer

Editorial Consultant

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.

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!

JOE EARLE

DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS

Veteran newspaperman Joe Earle has covered Georgia and Atlanta and its suburbs since the 1980s. Before that, he worked for newspapers in Kansas and South Carolina.

Donna Williams Lewis is a freelance journalist who covered metro Atlanta for decades as a writer and editor at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

GEORGE HUNTER

JASON GETZ

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.

Jason Getz is an award-winning photojournalist with a career of more than 15 years. Most recently, he was a staff photographer with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Getz’s photographs are published by the Associated Press, New York Times and Washington Post among others.

Writer

Writer

Photographer

Photographer

KRYSTAL MOBLEY

REMI DELONG

Peachtree Corners based visual artist, Krystal Mobley works in many mediums and explores and produces her work on many surfaces.

When she’s not creating she enjoys spending time with friends and family, working out, and gallery hopping.

Remi DeLong is a student at Norcross High School, aspiring to be a special education teacher in the future. In addition to her studies, she is a part of the yearbook staff and is a varsity cheerleader. Her main hobbies include photography and raising her two pet goldfish.

Visual Artist

FAMILY OF PODCASTS |

Photographer

Capitalist Sage, Peachtree Corners Life, Prime Luncheon with the City Manager, The ED Hour

KARL BARHAM

ALAN KAPLAN

Karl Barham’s company, Transworld Business Advisors, specializes in M&A and business valuations. For fun, Karl and his family can be found enjoying the family amenities around Peachtree Corners.

Alan Kaplan is a Realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes, Sotheby’s International Realty and a Peachtree Corners resident for 18 years. He is married with two young boys who are working actors and students at Peachtree Elementary School.

Co-Host on the CAPITALIST SAGE

Co-Host on the ED HOUR

THE PODCAST PRODUCTION TEAM KINSEY FIGLIOLINI

QUINN WATCH

Kinsey Figliolini just graduated from Berry College in Psychology with a minor in German. She has competed on the college’s Western Equestrian team for all four years.

She considers herself a crazy cat lady and bookworm.

Quinn Watch is a senior at Paul Duke STEM High School. She is a competitive diver with Georgia Dive Club. In her spare time, Quinn enjoys watching stand-up comedy, photography and traveling.

Director and Videographer

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Director and Videographer

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COME, JOIN THE FUN AT PEACHTREE CORNERS 1ST

Holiday Glow ON THE GREEN AT THE TOWN CENTER!

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6TH 6 pm – 9 pm ON THE TOWN GREEN AT THE PEACHTREE CORNERS TOWN CENTER

5200 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE CITY’S FIRST TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA. CELEBRATE THE SEASON DURING THIS FREE EVENT: • Holiday Performances • Sing-Along • Special guest from the North Pole • Tree Lighting • Kids – ride on a trackless train, take pictures with Santa • Pedestrian Parade

THE SCHEDULE: Peachtree Corners Baptist Church Performance: 6 pm - 7 pm (Sing-a-long from 6:30 pm - 7 pm) Light Up Pedestrian Parade: 7 pm - 7:30 pm Tree Lighting: 7:30 pm Santa, Train Rides, Community Performances: 7:30 pm - 9 pm

THE FINE PRINT: many children as possible get to enjoy the Santa experience, we ask that everyone limit the number of photos they take to 2 (two) photos per visit.

December 2019/January 2020■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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FIRST UP

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do

39th Annual Nutcracker December 6-22 Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 infiniteenergycenter.com More than 100 professional and student dancers appear in the holiday classic presented by Gwinnett Ballet Theatre.

Town Green Calendar

5140 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners 30092 peachtreecornersga.gov

Holiday Glow on the Town Green

T’ai Chi for Seniors

T’ai Chi is an effective exercise regimen that can improve balance, increase flexibility and relieve pain. Classes are offered on Thursday mornings, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Peachtree Corners Presbyterian Church, 5918 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092.

The next session will run for 8 weeks and starts on January 9. The cost is $48 per person for the entire 8-week session.

To try one class at no charge, call instructor Mr. Ernest Choi at 404-324-2004 or Ann at 770572-8725.

The Fugly Sweater Party December 6 & 7, 7:30 p.m.

Lionheart Theatre Company December 6, 6-9 p.m.

10 College Street, Norcross 30071

Come out for the Town Green’s first tree lighting and a visit by a very special guest from the North Pole. Kids are invited to ride a trackless train and get photos with Santa. Holiday performances by community groups include a sing-along with Peachtree Corners Baptist Church.

678-938-8518, lionhearttheatre.org

The adults-only, R-rated sketch comedy show includes an ugly holiday sweater contest, so be sure to wear your worst.

37th Annual 11Alive Holiday Can-a-Thon December 6, 5 a.m.-1 p.m.

Arena Parking Lot at Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 infiniteenergycenter.com Bring cans of food to help the Salvation Army feed the hungry during this televised event

Cookies with Santa Saturday, December 7, 1-3 p.m.

Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA 5600 Jones Bridge Road, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-246-9622, facebook.com/FowlerY The community is invited to visit Santa, decorate cookies and participate in holiday arts and crafts.

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Christmas Pops Concert December 9, 7 p.m.

Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 infiniteenergycenter.com Enjoy the sounds of the season, including favorite carols and pop tunes, with Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

Emmanuel Cantata December 23, 7 p.m.

Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 infiniteenergycenter.com The annual concert brings together different assemblies of Christ to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Chinese Opera Spring Festival Gala January 18, 4 p.m.

Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 infiniteenergycenter.com The Atlanta Drama Club presents the most beautiful and pure Chinese culture.

Winter Cornhole League Registration The seven-week outdoor winter cornhole league is held on Wednesday nights at Town Center. The season begins January 9, but anyone interested in participating must be registered

by December 30. To find out more, contact Marjie Foley at info@cornholeatl.com or 404-771-1010.

Hosted by the Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA and Nancy Minor Real Estate.

Important Dates

58th Atlanta Model Train Show and Sale January 18, 9 a.m.

Infinite Energy Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097 | infiniteenergycenter.com Six large working layouts will be featured at the show, as well as more than 350 vendor tables.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Hanukkah—December 22-30 Christmas Eve—December 24 Christmas—December 25 Kwanzaa— December 16-January 1 New Year’s Eve— December 31 New Year’s Day—January 1 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day— January 20

peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights

Pinckneyville Park Calendar

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

Peachtree Corners SLAPS December 5, 1 p.m., Create Your Own Greeting Cards January 2, 1 p.m., Zumba Demonstration Peachtree Corners Senior Library Activities and Programs (SLAPS) is designed for seniors. On the first Thursday of the month, older adults are invited to enjoy planned programs.

Drinks and Dessert with Authors Iris & Roy Johansen January 7, 7:30 p.m.

The writing duo of Iris and Roy Johansen have hit #1 on the New York Times Bestsellers list and received the Edgar Award. Autographed books will be for sale, and there will be a silent auction and complimentary wine and dessert. Peachtree Corners City Hall, Community Room, 310 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard Berkeley Lake 30096 678-277-0920 | gwinnettcounty.com To register for events, call or go to the website, click on Departments, scroll to Parks and Recreation, then click on Events.

Parents’ Day Out: Shop ‘Til You Drop December 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Drop off your kids, aged 5 to 12, and get your holiday shopping done. The kids will enjoy a creative movement dance session, game show with prizes, crafts, movie, lunch and snacks. $31 per child. Register early!

Jr. Create: Rainbow Fish January 16, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Children aged 2 to 7 are invited to explore their creative side by painting a clay fish after a story time that features the book “Rainbow Fish.” $4 per child.

The Big Freeze January 24, 6:30-8 p.m.

Meet Bestselling Author Brad Taylor January 11, 7 p.m.

Brad Taylor has sold more than 2 million books and his Pike Logan series has consistently hit the New York Times bestseller list. Brad served over 21 years, retiring as a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Free and open to all.

Dessert, Wine & Celebration with Bestselling Author J.T. Ellison January 14, 7 p.m.

A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 20 novels, J.T. Ellison also co-authored the “A Brit in the FBI” series with #1 NYT bestselling author Catherine Coulter. Free and open to the public.

Complimentary refreshments and auction items offered courtesy of the Friends of the Library. Books will be available for sale and signing. The event will be held at the Community Room in Peachtree Corners City Hall, 310 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092.

Ages 3 and up will discover ways to play and create with ice. There will be games, crafts—and they’ll even get to make ice cream. $4 per child.

Wesleyan School Announces Winter High School Musical Tuck Everlasting: The Musical Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence, but not until she becomes unexpectedly entwined with the Tuck Family does she get more than she could have imagined.

When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life.

As her adventure unfolds, Winnie faces an extraordinary choice: return to her life or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey.

Based on best-selling children’s classic by Natalie Babbitt and adapted for the stage by Claudia Shear and Tim Federle, Tuck Everlasting features a soaring score from Chris Miller and Nathan Tysen.

The five-show run is scheduled as follows: Wednesday, February 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 6 at 7 p.m.

Friday, February 7 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, February 8 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, February 8 at 7 pm.

The shows are open to the public and tickets are $10. Shows will be presented in Wesleyan’s Powell Theater located on campus with free parking. Tickets can be purchased at www.wesleyanschool.org/tickets.

December 2019/January 2020■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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on stage line Radio

Weekly On

Show

PODCASTS Alan Kaplan

Co-Host of the ED HOUR

Rico Figliolini

Podcast Host

Brian Johnson

Monthly guest on Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager

Miracle on 34th Street

In Bethlehem Inn

December 6 & 7

December 13-15

Duluth Wildcat Theatre 3737 Brock Road, Duluth 30096 770-4765206 duluththeatre. weebly.com

Lionheart Theatre Company 10 College Street, Norcross 30071 678-938-8518 lionhearttheatre.org The light dinner/theatre event starts with the audience enjoying dinner with the innkeeper and his family. After they’re interrupted by Joseph and Mary seeking to find shelter, they watch as the birth of Jesus unfolds.

A young girl learns about love and faith through her encounter with Kris Kringle.

Disney High School Musical

Catch Any of Our Podcasts on these Sites

Apple Podcasts ■ Spotify ■ iHeartRadio ■ Google Podcasts ■ FACEBOOK livinginpeachtreecorners.com

December 12-15 Norcross High School Auditorium 5300 Spalding Drive, Norcross 30092 770-447-2667, nhs-drama.com Two high school juniors from rival cliques are at the center of this popular musical.

Wesleyan School Winter Admissions Event Dates Wesleyan School will host the following admissions events this winter: Family Open House (grades K-12) Saturday, January 11, 2020 at 1 – 3:30 p.m.

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Kindergarten through Fourth Grade Student Shadowing Wednesday, December 11, 2019 from 9 – 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, January 22, 2020 from 9 – 10:30 a.m.

Parent Preview Day (grades K-12) Tuesday, January 28, 2020 from 9:45 – 11:15 a.m.

To learn more about each event and to see campus tour dates, please visit www.wesleyanschool.org/events.

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BUSINESS LIFE

Tandem Bank—Working Together with Businesses to Move Forward

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n September, a new bank nology to help individuals and opened in the Peachtree businesses with their banking Corners and surrounding area. needs while providing the style Tandem Bank, a full-service of personalized service expectcommunity bank, has its flagship ed from a local bank,” Gratwick location in Tucker and a secondary location in Peachtree Corners.

Tandem Bank is the first new bank in Georgia in eleven years.

“We’re here to fill a need in Peachtree Corners and the surrounding area,” said Weare Gratwick, Tandem Bank’s Market President for Peachtree Corners/ Gwinnett County. His career spans more than Weare Gratwick 30 years of commercial and real estate banking in the Atlanta market.

His commitment to community is explained. He noted that there is a evident in his local involvement, deposit market share of $2.2 Billion including being a member of the in Peachtree Corners, and there are Peachtree Corners Rotary club, over 1,200 local businesses in the Mayor Pro-Tem on the Peachtree city.

Corners City Council, Chair of the Small to mid-sized businesses Southwest Gwinnett Chamber and are just the clients that Tandem Chair-Elect of the Steering ComBank is looking for, and those same mittee for Leadership Gwinnett. clients have a need for the kind of “Tandem Bank has been created service Tandem offers,” he said. with the client in mind. The focus In fact, it’s a market that has of the bank is to leverage techbeen underserved. Due to consol-

idation, community banks in the Atlanta market have declined by 60% over the last 10 years, and no new banks have been formed in Georgia since 2008. There’s a strong need for a local bank that is focused on helping businesses and people succeed, Gratwick said.

“Because of the way technology has advanced, business owners no longer need to leave their businesses and go to a traditional branch location,” he added. These days, most banking can be done online with services like bill pay and mobile deposit through computers and devices. “What they do need is a local banker with a strong understanding of the market and local decision-making authority.”

And that’s just what Tandem Bank offers.

Charles DeWitt, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Tandem Bank, believes local banking is a sign of community strength. He has more than 30 years in the banking industry and previously served as founding CEO of Resurgens Bank, which sold to Charter Financial Group in 2017.

“At heart, we are entrepreneurs, just like many of our customers,” DeWitt said. “Our success is all about leveraging a good idea, in

this case a new type of community bank, into a lasting enterprise that makes a difference in people’s lives. Our growth will be fueled by investing in the community and creating a positive customer experience at every turn.”

According to Gratwick, when DeWitt saw the need for a new bank in the area, he started getting his organizers together with the goal of raising $18 Million in capital. The bank has more than 300 individual investors, and several are residents of Peachtree Corners.

“It’s exciting. We just closed our equity offering well over our goal, with $21 Million,” Gratwick reported, “so we’re off to a tremendous start.” ■

Lab will help these companies advance their technology and bring to market a broader and more robust suite of communication services to market.”

Since its beginning in 1949 as a local telephone company, Savannah, Ga.-based Hargray has grown to an industry telecommunications leader, offering a wide variety of internet, TV and phone services throughout the southeast.

Hargray Fiber will continue its expansion in the Peachtree Corners market and bring its full suite of communication products that includes enhanced data,

voice and video services including Hosted Unified Communications, Metro-Ethernet, multi-gigabit symmetrical circuits and video services all delivered over Hargray’s 100% fiber-optic network.

“As Hargray Fiber continues to expand its southeastern presence, we’re excited to offer leading fiber services to Lab users,” said Betsy Plattenburg, executive director of Curiosity Lab. “With Hargray Fiber’s support, companies moving to Peachtree Corners and operating in the Lab will benefit from quick, easy connectivity.” ■

Tandem Bank Locations Peachtree Corners/Norcross 107 Technology Parkway Suite 413 Peachtree Corners 30092 470-482-1818 Tucker 2356 Main Street Tucker 30084 770-281-9880 Find out more at tandem.bank.

Hargray Fiber Partners with Curiosity Lab

In October, Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners announced a strategic partnership with Hargray Fiber to provide critical infrastructure for the Lab and the innovators that use it.

Throughout Curiosity Lab, Hargray’s fiber optic cable will serve as the key infrastructure backbone, with all services using or connected to the Lab’s network.

“Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners is a one-of-a-kind location for innovative smart city, wireless and autonomous vehicle companies to test and demo their technology,” said Chris McCorkendale, Senior Vice President, for Hargray Fiber.

“Our partnership with Curiosity

December 2019/January 2020■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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SWGC Volunteers at Junior Achievement On October 29, volunteers from Southwest Gwinnett Chamber served as mentors and personal business consultants for the day at Pinckneyville Middle School. The volunteers shared their life experiences and coached the students throughout the day in a JA Finance Park simulation.

JA Finance Park helps students make the connection between their education and career, career and income, and ultimately their income and lifestyle. “It’s really an eye opener to see how much the kids get involved running a business or experiencing their first family budget,” said Bill Brown, SWGC, Marketing and Operations. ■

MY SALON Suite Holds Official Grand Opening at Town Center

Lea Harwell

MY SALON Suite in Peachtree Corners celebrated its grand opening on Oct. 21 at its new location at Town Center. Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason was on hand to perform the ribbon cutting, and residents were invited in to tour the salon and enjoy refreshments.

A wide range of beauty and personal care services are available at MY SALON Suite, including hair, make-up, skin care,

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microblading, eyelash extensions and massage therapy. MY SALON Suite provides expansive private salon suites, luxurious décor, elite furnishings and custom amenities to member professionals, who operate their salon businesses independently.

To learn more, visit mysalonsuite.com/peachtree-corners. ■ Photos by Remi DeLong More grand opening photos on the next page ►

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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First Friday Breakfast

SWGC’s Taste of the Holidays

features a notable speaker at our monthly breakfast. Our December 6th speaker will be Nick Masino, President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber, who will provide a preview of what to expect as Gwinnett County’s population approaches 1.5 million residents.

ct e n con age g n e e a ce k a m eren diff

Connect Over Coffee is our weekly morning networking group at the Atlanta Bread company at 8:30 – 9:30 am every Friday except the First Friday of each month.

Join us for a casual networking session with other business professionals from around the Southwest corner of Gwinnett County.

Our December Business After Hours – networking the easy way will feature finger food from several of our local restaurants.

Admission is either a new unwrapped Toy or a donation for our Toys for Tots campaign. See our website for details.

Looking for a place to eat?

Just check your phone. No app to download.

Just scan the QR code (or type SWGCga.life in your browser) to go right to the interactive list of local restaurants.

For details on these and other events contact Southwest Gwinnett Chamber www.southwestgwinnettchamber.com | 678-906-4078

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2020■ ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine December 2019/January 2020

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►Business Briefs Peachtree Corners Business Association 4989 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 678-969-3385 peachtreecornersba.com

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

World-Class Marketing | World-Class Service We take great pride in using our expertise, resources and global connections to perfectly unite extraordinary homes with the extraordinary buyers who will cherish them as we do.

107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 678-906-4078, southwestgwinnettchamber.com

First Friday—Nick Masino ▼

Passionate about serving our community.

Passionate about serving you!

Connecting Over Coffee

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

The Flying Biscuit Café, 5270 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092

Year End Celebration & Member Appreciation Gala

Enjoy breakfast and a special update from Nick Masino, Chairman & CEO of Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. Time for networking is set for 7:30 to 8 a.m. before the meal and presentation begin.

Admission is $40. Registration is required.

December 12, 5:30-8 p.m.

Northside Hospital, 3805 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth 30096

Southwest Gwinnett WordPress MeetUp

PCBA celebrates the companies, people and events that contribute to the success of PCBA and its impact on the Peachtree Corners community. Network with peers, meet VIPs and sample delicious food. Canned goods will be collected for the new pantry at Norcross Cooperative Ministry.

Registration is $25.

Hosted by the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, the meetup is held the third Tuesday of every month and is open to anyone interested in developing their WordPress skills.

Lunch Club

December 18, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location to be announced.

PCBA member restaurants offer special savings.

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December 6, 7:30-9 a.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Peachtree Corners 30092

December 17 & January 21, 7-9 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park, 107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092

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Twice a month we feature entrepreneurs & experts that speak to the real-world life of doing business, sharing their sage advice & tips to improve yours.

December Business After Hours—Taste of the Holidays December 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park, 107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092

Join SWGC to celebrate the holiday season and help collect donations for Toys For Tots. Member restaurants will provide a taste of some of their best holiday dishes.

PODCAST

Start the day with an opportunity to have conversations with other PCBA members and business professionals who want to share and experience business in a positive atmosphere. There’s no admission cost for PCBA members and their guests; no registration required.

ALAN K A PLA N

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December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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KNOWLEDGE

Education & Experiences

Signing Day for Senior Student-Athletes at Wesleyan On Nov. 14, eight Wesleyan School seniors made their college intentions official. Each signed a national letter of intent to attend and play a sport at a NCAA Division I college or university.

Commitments included: • Lanni Brown—basketball at the College of William and Mary • Avyonce Carter—basketball at the Georgia Institute of Technology • Madison Kerpics—softball at the University of Georgia • Jahni Kerr—softball at Florida State University • Will Stakel—golf at West Virginia University • Charlie Taylor—baseball at the University of Tennessee • Hannah Wasmuth—swimming at Villanova University • Holden Wilder—baseball at Wofford College

GAC Students Earn National Merit Scholarship Recognition Nicolas Veltmaat of Duluth, a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School, was named as a National Merit Semifinalist in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Nicolas has been named among approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 65th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Semifinalists are selected from about 1.6 million high school students who took the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during their junior year. These semifinalists are competing for 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $31 million.

Those scholarships will be announced in the Nicolas Veltmaat spring of 2020.

Nicolas is a 4-year Varsity soccer athlete who plans to pursue a career in biomedical engineering. “I contribute my success on the exam to my GAC school courses, which helped me to expand my knowledge and develop my problem-solving skills,” he said.

GAC also announced four of its seniors have been named as National Merit Commended Scholars: Melissa Lucht, Alexandra Maynard, Navya Sarikonda and Kaitlyn Williams. ■

Alexandra Maynard

Kaitlyn Williams

Melissa Lucht

Navya Sarikonda

Remember NHS Foundation for Excellence on Giving Tuesday Giving Tuesday is an annual day set aside to encourage people to contribute time, money and resources to worthy organizations. This year, Giving Tuesday falls on December 3.

For Norcross High School Foundation of Excellence, the date marks the beginning of their end-of-year donation campaign. Help

16

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

them continue to support excellence in academics, arts and athletics for all students at Norcross High School.

Make your contribution of any amount by visiting their Facebook page—facebook.com/nhsfoundation/—or website norcrosshighfoundation.org/donate/. ■

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Paul Duke STEM Students Take Honors at Reflections Nine Paul Duke STEM High School students placed at Area 2 Gwinnett County Council Reflections. First and Second place winners were honored at the Area 2 Gwinnett County Council Exhibit at Hudgens Center for the Arts on Nov. 10 and their entries will advance to State Level Competition.

Film/Video Production Cameron Swann, 10th grade—1st place Music Composition Sarah Jane Von Hagen, 9th grade—1st place Joshua Sellem, 11th grade—1st place Nathan Haynes, 12th grade—2nd place Literature Rohan Pai, 9th grade—1st place Kasha Salia, 10th grade—1st place Visual Arts Vanessa Frausto-Limone, 11th grade—1st place Edlawit Mitiku, 11th grade—2nd place 3D Visual Arts Maddy Strudwick, 10th grade—1st place The Reflections Program provides students with an opportunity to engage in the arts through their creativity in visual arts, photography, literature, musical composition, dance choreography and film/video production. The program is open to all students at all grade levels. First place winners in each category in each grade are advanced to Gwinnett County PTA for its competition. County winners advance to the state PTA level, and state winners advance to the national PTA competition. â–

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December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

17

Wesleyan School Faculty Members Named GISA Master Teachers

Leah Baughn

Kevin Kadzis

VEX Robotics Team Reaches Semifinals Paul Duke STEM High School’s VEX Robotics team 13073A—with members Richard Lee, Dylan Rayfield and Connor Baltich— placed 9th in the qualifying matches, then made it all the way to the semifinals at VEX Robotics competition on Nov. 9.

North Metro Academy of Performing Arts Students Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Lisa McNearney

Madison Thomas

The Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) has named four Wesleyan School faculty members GISA Master Teachers. Leah Baughn (middle school modern and classical languages), Kevin Kadzis (high school social science), Lisa McNearney (lower school music) and Madison Thomas (third grade lead teacher) were selected after completing a detailed application process through GISA this past spring.

“We are delighted that GISA has acknowledged the hard work of these committed educators through the new Master Teacher program,” said Chris Cleveland, Wesleyan Head of School. “Leah, Kevin, Lisa and Madison are outstanding classroom teachers and have been impacting the lives of Wesleyan students for many years. They are each deserving of this honor.” ■

Some students from the North Metro Academy of Performing Arts in Norcross took to the stage recently to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. The 4th and 5th grade students sang and performed for nearly 100 people at the 2019 Gwinnett County Hispanic Heritage Month Recognition and Reception. The annual event recognizes and honors the contributions of the county’s Latino community and is in line with north metro Atlanta’s focus on inclusion and celebration of diversity.

North Metro Academy of Performing Arts Diversity also embraces diversity. This year, the number of Hispanic students who enrolled at the school has doubled, and students at the school have learned about several different Hispanic cultures, their differences, their similarities and how to respect and honor them all.

North Metro Academy of Performing Arts engages students in instruction that integrates the academics and performing arts in ways that address the unique needs and interests of each student, while intentionally developing confidence, imagination and collaboration. Find out more at northmetroacademy.org. ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has recognized nine Wesleyan seniors. Meredith Mangum, Braden Thorne and Andy Yang were named National Merit Semifinalists, an honor that only 1% of seniors (about 16,000 total) nationwide receive based on their PSAT scores. These students will submit essays in the hope of becoming finalists and earning scholarship money; finalists will be announced in February 2020.

In addition, six Wesleyan seniors were named National Merit Commended Students. Approximately 2% of seniors nationwide receive this recognition. Wesleyan’s Commended Students are Isaiah Erb, Lindsey Mains, Adam Rogers, Jacob Walton, Abby Weatherly and Holden Wilder. ■ peachtreecornerslife

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December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

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MOVE About to head out for a ride 11.12.19 Councilman Weare Gratwick with longtime friend and exercise partner, Dr. Gene Witkin.

(Courtesy of Weare Gratwick)

We’ve had many deep conversations on these rides: everything from business decisions that we’ve both faced, to personal things going on in our lives. It’s been something that I’ve always enjoyed and a big part of both of our lives for many years.

Weare Gratwick, Senior Vice President of Tandem Bank

By Patrizia Winsper

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Exercise Groups in Peachtree Corners—Fitness & Friendships for the Win!

H

ow wonderful to live in our contemporary world brimming with technological and cultural conveniences like cell phones, computers, online shopping for anything from furniture, to clothes, to daily grocery necessities. We can work from home in the comfort of our pajamas and not see a soul all day.

Fortunately for us, living in Peachtree Corners with its active residents, well-maintained public spaces, infrastructure, beautiful residential areas and relatively mild weather, provides plenty of opportunities to combat the sedentary and solitary trends of today’s daily grind. Several social groups meet in our city, from those with interests in gardening to knitting to board games. I decided to investigate some active local groups and learned that for both leaders and members alike, the value of these alliances favoring connections and mutual support extends far beyond the exercise.

PC3 About to leave for a Saturday morning ride October 2019 (Photo by Patrizia WInsper)

December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

21

FITNESS IS NOT JUST PHYSICAL We’ve long been aware of the physical benefits of exercise. Yet have you ever considered that the friendships formed in exercise groups are just as important to your overall health as the exercise itself?

If joining a group for comradery and exercise seems intimidating, a group of two will do! A partner to keep you accountable and to be your confidant can provide the same benefits for your health.

Weare Gratwick, Senior Vice President of Tandem Bank, also serves as mayor pro tem on

the city council for Peachtree Corners. He likens his exercise regime three to four times a week with longtime friend, Dr. Gene Witkin, to mental health therapy.

“We started running together in 1992. As we got older, running got a little more painful, so we switched to riding bikes. We have several routes throughout Peachtree Corners. It’s as much for physical exercise as it is for mental health. … We’ve had many deep conversations on these rides: everything from business decisions that we’ve both faced, to personal things going on in our lives. It’s been something that I’ve always enjoyed and a big part of both of our lives for many years.

Hopefully we’ll be able to con-

tinue that. At some point I guess we’ll get too old to bike and then perhaps we’ll walk. We’ll see. Ha! Ha!” If you live in Peachtree Corners, people walking, jogging, or cycling for fitness is not an unfamiliar sight.

“It really is great that we’ve got a community where there are so many people who are able to participate in exercise activities.

They’re out and about. The city, I know, is working very hard to extend both sidewalks as well as our multi-use trails throughout the city. As we continue to expand those that’s going to provide more opportunities for people to walk, jog and ride bikes,” said Councilman Gratwick.

If you’re looking for trail ideas, scooters and bicycles are allowed on Technology Park’s Curiosity Lab, the test track for autonomous vehicles.

“That’s really the genesis of the multi-use trails because we’ve widened sidewalks to 12 feet throughout Tech Park… I know we’re working to connect to a couple of lakes back there. … You can canoe or kayak on the lakes.

Our multi-use trail will… continue the loop around the city… It’s high on our priority list.”

You can find Gratwick and Witkin riding their bikes in Simpsonwood Park, which is also a great place to run and walk.

They enjoy riding through neighborhoods like North Manor and Amberfield as well.

PC3 (PEACHTREE CORNERS CYCLING CLUB) Randy Bailey, a software sales executive and resident of Peachtree Corners since 1986, well before its incorporation as a city, heads up PC3, a diverse group of road biking enthusiasts who have been riding on Saturday and Sunday mornings, and on Tuesday and Thursday evenings since the early 1990s. He took his love for spin class, which he taught for several years, out on the road.

Andrew Hebert helps him orchestrate the club. You can find them riding with anywhere from five to 25 people. On busy days there can be 50 to 60 riders.

The group is comprised of cyclists in their teens to those in their 70s, from a multitude of backgrounds, representing an array of professions: long-haul truckers, people in technology, teachers and doctors. It’s anchored in Peachtree Corners, but they draw members from Roswell, Dunwoody and Johns Creek.

“It’s a great, central location Continued on page 24

Andrew Hebert and Randy Bailey head-up PC3 (Peachtree Corners Cycling Club) (Photo by Patrizia Winsper)

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Continued from page 22 where people can get together and ride.”

“There are tons of athletes in the group, people who do other kinds of riding, like mountain bike riding and gravel biking.

We’re primarily a road biking group but we support all those other disciplines. It’s a pretty broad sport. There are some who are triathletes so they’re runners too. I’ll have people come back from a ride, put their bikes in the car and then go for a run,” explained Bailey.

Gulp… If like me, you hear that and feel leery about joining a group of hard-core athletes, PC3 is welcoming to all levels. They have some beginners, people who just came out of spin class and want to try it on the road, people who are apprehensive about it.

Some, like Bailey, become cyclists because it’s more forgiving on the joints than running and impact sports.

They all coexist harmoniously, even with members on the other extreme, who are nationally recognized racers joining PC3 on their “rest days.”

“There’s quite a bit more to

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it than just the exercise. That’s important and it’s definitely worthwhile, but it is a lot broader than that.” Bailey conveyed the important social factor of the group. They participate in several activities outside of their shared passion for riding. Stories of great weight loss, support for members having arrived from different countries and personal growth have all come out of this band of cyclists.

IT’S AMAZING HOW EASY IT BECOMES Member Jenny Johnson shared “PC3 has been one of the biggest reasons I was able to recover so strongly from my knee replacement and the three surgeries following. … I had to start from ground zero in building strength and confidence on the bike. ... PC3 was patient enough to allow me to ride, even when I was so slow and in pain those first few months … after surgery.

I’ve logged over 1,600 miles on the bike since my knee replacement and all but about 100 miles of those were with PC3.”

When I met with PC3 before a

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Saturday morning ride, member Dena Gaddie told me she was the kid no one wanted on their team because she was not in good shape. She got into cycling as an adult and has gone from being “in the absolute worst physical shape” to being “just one of the pack—good enough to hang with the group. I’m steadily improving.

Now I can do 100-mile bike rides. … It’s done a world of good for my well-being, my self-esteem, my social life and my overall outlook on life.”

For more information about PC3 visit pc3cycling.com.

THE RENEGADE RUNNERS This is a troop of about 40 individuals who range in age from their late 30s to age 60. Primarily female, about 80%, some are stay at home moms and several are professionals: doctors, business executives, teachers, real estate agents.

A Waffle House executive by day, John Fervier spearheads the running group he joined 15 years ago when it was still known as Gwinnett Galloway. Galloway

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had gotten too regimented—it’s a very formal run/walk process— so they disbanded and formed The Renegade Runners. Their apropos motto is “Do whatever the hell you want.”

They still employ the Galloway method of repeated running and walking intervals. For example, they’ll run for five minutes and walk for one. At its inception, it was primarily a marathon training group. Now it’s primarily a social group of people who like to run an array of races.

“We wanted more freedom with our training programs,” explained Fervier. They meet on Saturday mornings at the Ingles parking lot; 7 a.m. in the summer Continued on page 26

Left, Denver marathon group October 17, 2010 (photos this page courtesy of John Fervier pictured 2nd from left)

Right, Kirsten’s 50th marathon state

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December 3, 2019

A global day of giving to kick off the charitable season and the Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence (NHSFE) end-of-year giving campaign Even a small donation can make a big difference in a student’s life Hasta una pequeña donación puede marcar una gran diferencia en la vida de un estudiante

Please help by donating today!

• Text “NHSFE” to 56651 • Facebook Fundraiser: find page for “Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence” • Website: bit.ly/NHSGives

$5

$25

$50

$100

$200

Pens and Pencils for a student in need

Games for Geometry class or a backpack for student in need or medical supplies for the Clinic

A set of books for English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) or building supplies for Drama

Advanced Placement test prep books, lab supplies for Science, or new music for Band

A Chromebook or sensory room supplies for Special Education

Through community involvement and support we can positively impact all Norcross High School students. NHSFE is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that raises funds to provide resources that ensure the success of all students. Through a tax deductible donation, community members like YOU ensure we can continue to improve NHS facilities, promote equality among all students, and increase access to technology in the classroom.

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Continued from page 24 and 7:30 a.m. in the winter.

There are different subgroups based on pace.

■ The Slackers: 2:1 (They run for two minutes and walk for one.)

■ The Renegades: 5:1 ■ Lazy Sux: 7:1. They’re the fastest and they participate in a lot of races.

Some are not training for anything. Some have run over 50 marathons, one in each state.

Others are striving to accomplish that goal.

“There is nothing strict about us. We’re a social group that likes to run, or a running group with a drinking problem. We’ve been known to have some mimosas after a run,” Fervier said.

RUNNING IN PEACHTREE CORNERS Fervier and his group can be seen running on the streets and sidewalks in neighborhoods like Amberfield. In the summer, they may run along the shaded path by the river in Roswell.

They’ve developed 50 different

routes over the years, running primarily around Peachtree Corners. They’ll also dart to downtown Norcross and back or up to North Berkley Lake.

A member since 2006, Donna Esau shared how they’ve named and memorized all the routes since they’ve jogged them so often. There’s the “Old Lisa,” “The Infinity,” “The Donut,” and “Three Friends,” to name a few.

Fervier sends an email every weekend containing route, start time and weather information.

Routes may differ depending upon which races they’re training for.

“There are great areas for running around here with little traffic. We have hills instead of just straightaways, which helps a lot with training. It’s pretty much a perfect place. And there are great restaurants to go to for breakfast afterwards,” Fervier said.

RUNNING BUDDIES “We’ve all become really close friends. We’ve traveled across the country together running races.

We’ve traveled to California, to Hawaii. We have Christmas parties, we celebrate together,

and we support each other when we’re going through difficult times,” Fervier explained.

“Typically, our Saturday runs last one to two hours,” he continued. “When you spend five to six hours running with people— training for marathons, we run 20 miles or more—or several hours on the road heading to different marathons, you learn a lot about them.”

Fervier knows of some relationships that sprang from the group. He also described how members can count on one another when dealing with illnesses or during difficult times at home. “You learn a lot about their personal lives and what they go through. When I’ve had my own illnesses, I’ve leaned on my friends in the running group to help me through it,” he said.

To show their support when a member is preparing for longer marathons, some people in the group will run the first 10 miles with him or her, then another set of people will go along for support on the next 10.

“We like people that get along with other people. Those are the people who stay with our group and enjoy it. No drama, no fighting,” said Fervier.

BGR (BLACK GIRLS RUN) I met with Director of Research/Electrical Engineer and BGR lead Prudence Franklin, who explained that there are BGR groups across the country trying to encourage women of all fitness levels to get out and become more active.

While there were BGR groups in Atlanta, there wasn’t one in Peachtree Corners, so Franklin decided to get a team of women together of varying sizes, shapes and capabilities. She posted an ad on the Nextdoor website and women from all over Peachtree Corners, Berkley Lake and Johns Creek answered the call.

BGR meets three days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the summer and 7 p.m. in the winter.

Saturdays at 7 a.m. “We try to get out there and do our thing,” said Franklin.

Since August of this year, 30 women inquired about BGR. Initially, 12-14 came out to participate. Now there are about four or five regulars. “We meet at the Dunkin Donuts in the Ingles Plaza,” Franklin said.

Their ages range from late 20s to 70s and all levels are welcome: some are runners, some prefer to walk and others run/walk.

Despite the group’s name, Franklin stressed that women of all ethnicities are welcome to join them. Just as Peachtree Corners is diverse, so too is their BGR group.

While the origin of the movement was meant to help improve the health of African American women who statistically have had higher rates of hypertension, diabetes and heart disease, it’s not exclusively for black women.

It’s about empowering all women to be healthy. “We want all women out there running and being health-conscious,” said Franklin.

Left, BGR in the Ingles shopping center.

(Photo courtesy Prudence Franklin)

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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walkers. Everyone waits until the last people come in. I can attest to this, as on the night I joined them, Franklin could clearly run circles around the rest of us, but she gracefully fell back, doubled-backed, checked on us and brought us headlamps for running at night, likely going three or four times the intended distance.

“We wait for and celebrate everyone upon their return,” Franklin said.

When I thanked her for her efforts and for the great things she’s doing in our city, Franklin replied, “This is Peachtree Corners, we have to keep it vibrant, alive and a good place to live.”

Indeed. ■

AT YOUR OWN PACE— IN COMPANY I joined the ladies one evening on a run to Simpsonwood Elementary and back to Ingles.

Initially, I feared my speed would not be up to par. I met members Corinda Billington and Tavia Anderson that night. Billington is 70 and in much better shape than I am. She also plays tennis on two different teams. She links up with BGR often and said she enjoys the workout and company since having lost her husband.

It was a relief when Franklin explained, “The whole point of BGR is so women would not be intimidated. The walkers walk with each other, the runners run together and we have the motto: No woman left behind.”

In the end, the runners get back first and they wait for the

A selfie with the girls before the run.

(Photo selfie by Patrizia WInsper)

Stay tuned for our December podcast on Exercise Groups in Peachtree Corners!

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27

BELIEVE

Faith, Belief & Purpose

Walk Through Bethlehem Showcases Christmas Spirit

T

COURTESY OF SIMPSONWOOD UMC

his year, the annual Walk Through Bethlehem will be presented

by Simpsonwood United Methodist Church over three evenings, Dec. 13 through 15. Visitors are invited to stroll through the candlelit outdoor nativity scene, complete with wise men, shepherds, angels and live animals.

This is the 29th year that Simpsonwood UMC has recreated the streets of Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth—and over the years, more than 56,000 guests have visited them.

Simpsonwood UMC volunteers will begin construction about a week earlier as they transform a field in Simpsonwood Park into a living town of Bethlehem, complete with shops and shopkeepers, grape stompers, tax collectors, census takers, money changers and Roman guards.

In addition to the actors and shopkeepers, many other important roles are filled by the more than 300 volunteers. They serve hot chocolate at the hospitality tent, assist with directional signs and parking, and set up and maintain the more than 1,200 luminaries.

Simpsonwood UMC invites the Peachtree Corners community to visit Bethlehem and discover the true meaning of Christmas.

When: Friday & Saturday, Dec. 13 & 14, 7-9 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 15, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Simpsonwood Park, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092 Admission: Free; canned food donations will be collected for Norcross Cooperative Ministry.

More info: simpsonwoodumc.org

Believe continues on page 38 ►

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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20 UNDER 20

Peachtree Corners is home to extraordinary families and schools which are nurturing bright, tal-

ented and community-minded young people. We sent out requests for nominations of students who find the time to make the world a better place despite their busy school schedule.

Not surprisingly, we were flooded with responses. So in addition to our “20 Under 20” selection, we’re including a list of “Up and Coming” teens who are making positive differences in peoples’ lives.

Cem and Alp Altikulac

Brothers Cem and Alp Altikulac help teens on the autism spectrum learn ways to cope with the world.

“Cem and Alp volunteer their time through countless service projects and fundraisers to support autism awareness,” wrote Carolyn Tully, a volunteer coordinator who works with the brothers. “They serve as peer models, demonstrating the skills that teenagers and young adults with autism need to be successful in the community and play pivotal roles in motivating and mentoring.”

Cem, who’s 18 and a freshman at Georgia State University, and Alp, who’s 16 and a junior at Norcross High, work with teens on the spectrum to master life skills such as how to manage a shopping trip or how to play a videogame.

“There was one kid who was 14 and I was teaching him to play [the videogame system] Wii because his mom wanted him to play Wii to connect with his brother, like other siblings, which is a natural skill for any other 14-year-olds,” Alp wrote. “But for him, it took two months of hard work and one broken TV screen to learn to play one simple Wii game.

This memory always reminds me how we take everything for granted which we should not.”

Cem recounted teaching a teen who was on the spectrum how to go shopping. “We started with Walmart to teach him to shop for his basic needs and wants. The skills we planned to teach were reading off a list, finding the right aisle, identifying different brands, finding the price and paying at the cashier. He had a lot of difficulty to perform any of the skills at first, but after weeks of repetition of going to Walmart … he can go shopping for any groceries and find it in the store without much hesitation now. This memory gave me a warm heart because I impacted another person’s life who sometimes doesn’t get the same opportunities as me.” ■

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Aubrey DeAugustinis

Aubrey DeAugustinis, a 17-yearold senior at Wesleyan School, serves on the Teen Council at Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities and was named Top Fundraiser for the Teen Council in 2018. She also interned with the organization in the summer of 2018, supporting the marketing, finance and management services departments. Aubrey has worked with another Wesleyan student, her cousin Lizzy Stainback, to lead after-school enrichment classes, where lower school students learned about Ronald McDonald Charities.

“In our Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Enrichment club, we got the opportunity to visit one of the houses and take a tour,” Aubrey recalled. “I loved seeing the faces of the kids in this club as we entered the house that they had been learning about all year. We had taught

them about the mission of ARMHC and done various service projects, but it was so special to see the mission in action.”

At Wesleyan, Aubrey has participated in high school theater productions, as a varsity cheerleader, on the prom committee and she has served as a Wesleyan student ambassador working with prospective families.

In ninth and 10th grade, she served on Wesleyan’s honor council. She also has volunteered to play with lower school students before school every other Wednesday morning and will take part in a mission trip to Guatemala this spring.

Aubrey has been awarded the bronze medal on the National Spanish Exam and was awarded the Female Overall Achievement Award at Wesleyan in both ninth and 10th grades. ■

By Joe Earle and Kathy Dean December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Kate Fuhr

Kate Fuhr started figure skating at age 8. After a year and a half, she switched to ice hockey.

Now, at age 14, the Cornerstone Christian Academy eighth grader has been a member of the Atlanta Fire Ice Hockey Developmental Team for the past three years. She is one of only a handful of girls in the organization, and one of only three girls playing at “14 and under” Bantam level at the Cooler in Alpharetta. Kate is also starting her second year on the Junior Atlanta Thrashers, the Women’s Travel Ice Hockey Team.

“I’ve been part of the coed ice hockey team for three years,” Kate said, “and one thing that I’ve learned from Cornerstone Christian is how to get out of my comfort zone and make new friends.”

She’s interested in music, too. She has studied piano for five years, taken voice lessons for the past year and started playing the guitar and writing songs this past summer. She’s been a member of the Cornerstone Chapel Band for four years and a member of the Cornerstone chorus for two.

“I learned the importance of service from my parents, grandparents and other influential people in my life,” Kate said. “When trying to recall a memorable moment of service, the people around me stand out more than any one event. I think about one very special teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy, Mrs. Katie Trapani.”

Unfortunately, Mrs. Trapani passed away in 2018 after a courageous battle with cancer. “She took us to the Ronald McDonald House, an organization that was very dear to her,” Kate remembered. “I learned first-hand what an impact we, even as kids, had on the lives of families supporting seriously ill children in the hospital.” ■

Charlotte Burts

Charlotte Burts, who’s 17 and a junior at Norcross High, plays violin, rides horses, serves as a vice president of the Spanish Honor Society, is a member of the school color guard and is working on her Gold Award through Girl Scouts. She is an active member of Simpsonwood United Methodist Church and has taken part in five weeks of mission trips.

“One of my most memorable moments was when I had the opportunity to help Peachtree Corners Baptist Church and the Norcross Co-op with the Merry Market,” Charlotte recalled. “This program allows countless underprivileged families to give their children a nice Christmas free of charge. Many of these families do not primarily speak English, so it was also an amazing experience to be able to use Spanish to do something good for

my community. This allowed me to contribute in ways that I normally wouldn’t be able to and see the kind of impact I had on the lives of others.”

According to Cathy Loew, a parent volunteer with Norcross High band, she always noticed the same girl helping at band events.

“She helped at the band registration table, she helped with food at band camp, she helped with the uniforms.

She seemed to be everywhere and happy!

“My daughter was new to color guard and she informed me that the girl was Charlotte Burts. When I asked if she was always so helpful, my daughter replied, “Yes, she helps me all the time in guard.” Charlotte is exactly the type of person who will make the world a better place.” ■

Cimone Jefferson

At age 17, Norcross High senior Cimone Jefferson already has seen success in business. She founded and owns a skin-care product business (GloKit)—featuring a line of natural body scrubs—that came in First Runner Up in the inaugural 3DE program’s Business Creation Simulation.

According to Cimone, her most memorable moment so far has been creating the skin-care business in her 3DE business class at Norcross High School. “This opportunity has helped me uplift young ladies to be confident, so that they can feel they can accomplish anything they put their mind to,” she said. “This brings me great pride in helping my community!”

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In her junior year, Cimone was appointed Vice President of Media Coordination for the Future Business Leaders of America. She attended the National Student Leadership Conference for Business and Entrepreneurship at Yale University in the Summer of 2019. At the conference, she pitched an idea that won the award for best usage for technology.

Also in 2019, Cimone was named Norcross High’s Homecoming Queen. Active in cheerleading throughout high school, she acted as Cheer Captain and earned a spot as an All-American Cheerleader all four years and represented Norcross High at the Disney World Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Cimone has also served as a Junior Coach for the Freshman Cheer Squad since her sophomore year.

“Cimone has been a terrific ambassador for Norcross High School (and Peachtree Corners) and will continue to do so in the future,” Norcross Business Education teacher Twoey Hosch wrote. ■

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Georgia Whitmer

Georgia Whitmer’s teachers rave about her. The Norcross High senior draws high marks from her mentor on a summer research project as a NASA intern, who praised her “outgoing and confident personality” and predicted the 17-yearold will be successful “through her work ethic and willingness to learn and contribute.” Her physics teacher calls her one of the Top 10 students he’s taught in a 30-year career that has included about 3,500 students.

Jonathan Crymes, her International Baccalaureate Physics Higher Level 2 teacher wrote. “Her grasp of physics is extraordinary and difficult problems prove little challenge for her work ethic. But she does not get by on just her mind.

She works hard and she works tirelessly, and she is self-motivated and self-reliant. I’ve never said this before: she’s the perfect student.”

Georgia is active outside the classroom, too. She is on the com-

munity swim team, made the USA Swimming Southeastern Sectionals when she was 12, tutors other students voluntarily, is president of a service club called Dumbledore’s Army and participates in Technology Student Association Projects, Crymes wrote.

“My goal is to encourage others

to go after their dreams and aspirations,” Georgia said. “I do this through leadership. As president of the Technology Students Association at Norcross High School, I help others to go after their goals in technology. Dumbledore’s Army gives others the opportunity to develop their own ideas about the world by offering them unbiased information.”

Her internship project, titled The Urban Green Space: A Habitat for Mosquito Breeding All Across the United States, incorporated NASA satellite imagery, GLOBE land cover and mosquito habitat data and her citizen science data observations, wrote Cassie Soeffing, her mentor on the project. “We were impressed with her timely completion of assignments, thoughtful and articulate analysis of the comparative study assignments, collaborative nature during this virtual project and her final project presentation,” Soeffing wrote. ■

Evan Johnson

Elle Dougherty

Elle Dougherty has been curious about the ocean since she was little. She has other interests—competitive swimming, the Norcross High band’s color guard and Girl Scouts among them—but she has been so committed to ocean conservation that during a family vacation to the beach she spent time working at the Jekyll Island Turtle Sanctuary.

The 16-year-old now volunteers regularly at the Georgia Aquarium, and she was chosen to work summer and fall internships there. Elle’s favorite experience at the aquarium, she said, involved a family with young daughters.

“It was a quiet morning, so not many guests were in the building. I was in Ocean Voyager, the largest exhibit, with the whale sharks, … and a family of four came through. … The family was awestruck, which made me smile because I feel the same way every time I see it. …I began to talk to [the] daughters, who told me that they were interested in sharks and had never seen whale sharks up close before. They quickly began asking me questions about all of the animals and about the aquarium itself.

“One question that I vividly remember was when the youngest one asked me how big they get. When I told her that they could get to be about 13 times her height she was shocked. … I love being able to give people unique experiences as well as provide interesting information and awareness about the oceans.” ■

As drum major of the Norcross High band, Evan Johnson does more than merely keep the beat, according to Jen Elliott Ehrhardt, a neighbor and friend who calls herself “Evan’s other mother.”

“His legacy to the marching band transcends the podium,” she wrote. “Evan promotes inclusion, leadership, and connection by living it.

The 17-year-old senior’s leadership extends beyond the band. “As junior class president, then student body president, Evan’s platform has been inclusion,” Ehrhardt wrote. “Anyone can be kind, and Evan makes compassion cool.

“Scouting offered another context to prioritize engagement and giving back,” Ehrhardt wrote. Evan honored servicemen and servicewomen, as well as first responders, through a letter-writing campaign culminating in his Eagle Scout ranking earlier this year.

“I asked Evan why he’s spent so many hours volunteering. ‘Two reasons,’ he explained. ‘First, I love to help people. It’s a huge passion of mine. And second, I want people to feel like they matter.”

One of Evan’s memorable moments happened at a fun activity called Reverse Trick or Treating hosted by the Norcross High Student Council, he said. “We visit an elderly home in our community to give them candy and chat. As we were leaving the home this year, an elderly woman pulled me aside and thanked me profusely, telling me how this event made her entire week. It brought me joy to know that we were able to bring them a bit of happiness. I strive in everything that I do to make the lives of those around me better.” ■

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Kaitlyn Williams

After researching food insecurity, Kaitlyn Williams proposed that her school, Greater Atlanta Christian School, could find an outlet to donate excess food from lunch to those in need. She and a group were tasked with making the idea a reality, which required school and food services administrative approval, health department criteria and transportation options.

Since formally launching and partnering with Food for Thought/Second Helpings in August 2017, GAC has continued to donate surplus food every week to the metro Atlanta area.

The 18-year-old senior has contributed to her community in other ways, too. She organized a candy drive for orphans in the Ukraine, has tutored elementary age students who speak English as a second language and has been a team member for mission trips to Guatemala and Ecuador.

During the past two summers, Kaitlyn was a volunteer coach at Tavani Soccer Camp, a camp she attended when she was younger and where she shares her passion for the game with younger players. “I not only loved to coach the kids during the summer,” she said. “but when I see the kids during the fall season and they say, “Hey Coach Kaitlyn!” then I know I have made an impact on them.” ■

Braden Thorne

Wesleyan School senior Braden Thorne has excelled in school as a National Merit Semifinalist and member of the National Honor Society and in the community as an Eagle Scout. Also, Braden, who’s 18, and a friend recently pitched an online retail business concept to Atlanta Tech Village, a startup community in Midtown, and they will be launching the concept in the coming months.

At school, Braden is a member of the National Honor Society, has won two National French Exam awards and is a member of the math team. He is a member of the Wesleyan marching band, where he is serving as the drum major for the second year; has participated in multiple productions in the Wesleyan theater department; is a member of the high school chapel band; serves as a student government representative; and serves as a Wesleyan student ambassador

working with prospective families considering Wesleyan each year.

This spring, Braden will serve on a Wesleyan mission trip to Costa Rica.

For his Eagle Scout project, he organized construction of two picnic tables at the trail by Tech Lake Park.

“It was such an awesome experience to lead nearly a dozen other scouts in the construction and installation process,” he recalled. “I was so humbled to see many others jump in and unify with the common goal to serve the community.” ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Lizzy Stainback

Lizzy Stainback, a senior at Wesleyan School, serves as president of the school’s chorus leadership committee, takes part in the high school chapel band and has participated in plays and musicals with the school’s Wolf Players.

Her interest in music continues off-campus, too. The 17-year-old recently volunteered as a counselor with Camp CreARTive at the George Center for Music Therapy.

And every week, Lizzy volunteers with the Salvation Army Church in Lawrenceville as an assistant choir director. She works with children aged 6 to 12.

“As I started working at the Salvation Army, I didn’t know what to think,” she recalled. “I wasn’t sure if I’d be accepted by the kids and parents as I was a late addition in

their chorus season. I was pleasantly surprised as I was welcomed with open arms, literally.

“Every Thursday after a long drive to Lawrenceville, I’m greeted with glowing smiles from 30 kids all shouting ‘Miss Lizzy! Miss Lizzy!

I missed you.’ They are always interested in the events of my life and the cool things I’ve learned in school. I only hope that I bring as much joy to their lives as they bring to mine, and I’ve made as much of an impact on their lives as they’ve made on mine.”

And her community and school activities extend beyond music.

She’s a member of the National Honor Society, the Teen Council and serves as a board student leader with Atlanta Ronald McDonald Charities. ■

“Every single person I know who is successful at what they do is successful because they love doing it.”

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December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Nadia Jones

Myra Wu

Although she’s just 11 years old, Myra Wu has built quite a resume. She’s an A student at Pinckneyville Middle School, performs on piano and French horn, and competes in the swimming pool and on the tennis court.

“Myra’s drive and ambition to compete individually and with her teammates is outstanding,” family friend Tanya Ayers wrote. “Her dedication during the school year and through summer vacation shows her passion and drive is unwavering as she sacrifices her time to practice and help others.”

Myra, who started playing tennis at age 5, according to robotics coach Hayley Hanson, ranks 35th in the G12 USTA Georgia standings.

She recently volunteered to be a ball girl at a Special Pops Tennis tournament, a competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. “It was great to help those with disabilities play the sport that I love—tennis,” Myra said. “Seeing their smiles made the experience well worth it.” ■

Riley Keller Riley Keller, a 17-year-old junior at Wesleyan School, plays varsity softball, basketball and lacrosse.

She has played on two state championship softball teams and has been a counselor at Wesleyan summer camps for her three sports.

But ask her favorite memory

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Nadia is passionate about helping and encouraging others.

The Norcross High School student has collected blankets, hats and gloves for the charity Hosea Feed the Hungry. She’s collected new and gently worn shoes for recycling and provided Socks 4 Seniors.

She led a coat and toy drive with donations going to Norcross Cooperative Ministry.

She started a Girl UP Club in her middle school to build self-esteem, fight against bullying and encourage girls to be great. At 16, Nadia has been a Girl Scout for 11 years and now is serving a two-year internship with Girl Scout USA. She has committed hours to working on G.I.R.L. 2020, a conference expected to bring thousands of girls and their supporters to Orlando, Fla. next year for inspiration and to encourage their empowerment.

Bernina Jones, her mother, says Nadia said has been sharing her Christian faith with others in the local community and in downtown Atlanta through prayer, play and by spending many Saturdays visiting neighborhoods to deliver fresh bread and pray for strangers. She’s also sung carols at homes for senior citizens.

“A moment I will never forget is visiting a senior citizens home while on Christmas break,” Nadia wrote. “The holidays can be a difficult time of year for many, so to lighten the hearts of senior citizens in the community, who often don’t get to see their families, I visited them. It was an amazing time of fellowship and in those few moments, I shared smiles, laughs

and she recalls a birthday snow cone that led to an off-the-cuff effort to help people in need.

Her story goes something like this: “My parents rented a snowcone machine for my birthday.

It wasn’t due back until after the weekend, so we gave out free snow cones to kids in our neighborhood.

All of the kids could have purchased a snow cone, but it was amazing how much joy it brought to people that we gave them away for free.

“This sparked the idea to give away snow cones in exchange for canned goods to stock the summer shelves at the Norcross Co-op. The number of Peachtree Corners families that participated in our Cans4-Cones over the years is unknown, but there were a lot of smiles and we collected hundreds of pounds of

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

and prayers with many people who often didn’t get to experience them. As a small gift for the seniors, I gave them new fuzzy socks and I will never forget the bright smiles and a few teary-eyed responses of the people who received them.

“That glimpse of joy sparked from giving back to a community that so willingly embraced me is an incomparable experience that I will carry with me as I continue to faithfully serve my community. You never know how much of a change you can make in the world until you understand that just a little bit of service has the potential to change the lives of people around you forever.” ■

food from a simple snow cone.”

That wasn’t her first charity effort. Through the National Charity League—which she has served as president, vice president of programs, attendance coordinator and chair of the Caring for a Cause event committee and other committees—she has worked with various philanthropies.

Riley is a member of Wesleyan’s Omicron Service Team, where she and other students serve organizations throughout the community, and she has been involved with mission trips to Alabama, Tennessee, the Dominican Republic and Ecuador. Riley also volunteered with Hope Heals Summer Camp to support families affected by disabilities. ■

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Smit Patel Lee Conger, local school technology coordinator at Paul Duke STEM High, recalled the first time he met Smit Patel. Smit, then a sophomore, was interested in drones.

“Smit walked into my office, introduced himself with a firm handshake and a steady gaze, and asked if I was helping to launch a program [at Paul Duke] focused on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).

I told him I was … After speaking with Smit for just a few minutes, I found out he was heavily involved in JROTC and the Technology Student Association, and he served in a leadership role in both of those

organizations.

Now, as a senior, Smit has become one of the leaders of his class, Conger says.

“He is one of only 11 students participating in the joint cybersecurity venture between Mercer University and the FBI. In addition to being on the First Robotics team, Smit has been a student leader on the team which provides free aerial photography to schools in Gwinnett County Public Schools. He also led the team responsible for the unique drone ribbon-cutting ceremony at Curiosity Lab of Peachtree Corners last month.”

Smit plans on attending college and then the Air Force where he can use his knowledge of UAVs and robotics to serve his country. “It’s important to me to help other people.

The drone club has helped us—me and my classmates—to begin to realize the opportunities that drones have for us,” Smit said. “I’d like to pursue a career in drone technology, most likely in the Air Force where I could fly drones on missions to assist and protect troops. The club has also been able to help two fellow students who are looking to start their own drone business.”

Conger said that when he thinks of students who will make Peachtree Corners proud, “Smit Patel is certainly at the top of my list.” ■

Savannah Whitmer Savannah Whitmer, a 17-yearold Norcross High senior, is an award-winning member of the Technology Student Association, captains the school swim team and is percussion section leader in the Norcross High School Band. “Savannah’s work ethic and care for her

“They relied on community members for donation of materials: Many people gave fence posts for bordering, used Realtor signs that could be painted and displayed, an old owl figurine to add a magical element to the garden. To know that Savannah was one of the master-

peers makes her a standout from those around her,” Assistant Band Director and Percussion Director Corey Fair said.

She also is a Harry Potter fan.

With her mother, Marilyn Whitmer, and her twin sister, Georgia, Savannah helped create the Harry Potter Garden at Peachtree Elementary School, which was inspired by the magical books that have attracted millions of readers. “Savannah and her sister designed and laid out a plan for the garden, including creative scenes based on details from the books to keep students interested,” Fair wrote.

minds behind this amazing service project shows her passion for education and for people.”

Savannah herself says she’s proudest of her work with the school marching band. “These past four years I have learned how to be a strong leader for my peers,” she wrote. “I had the privilege of being the one to make them smile when they were feeling down and to watch them grow into leaders themselves. Together we are a family, strong and unbreakable.“ ■

Trey Dixon Trey Dixon sets the bar high for himself. The 18-year-old Greater Atlanta Christian School senior is a runner who helped lead the school’s team to the state meet. He’s a musician who plays piano and guitar.

He shoots photographs of campus activities and helps devise sets and lighting designs for school events.

Trey also leads worship on Sunday mornings, tutors underclassmen and runs extra laps to encourage younger runners.

“One of my most memorable moments giving back to the community was through running the Peachtree Corners’ “Light Up the Corners” race along with my entire family,” he said. “I have run the race every year for the last three years, but I especially enjoyed this year because I was able to bring my friends to run the race with me and it supports a great cause right within our community.” ■

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Heather Flanagan

Heather Flanagan helps younger girls find joy through dance. The 17-year-old Norcross High junior helps host free weekly after-school ballet classes for first graders at Beaver Ridge Elementary who might not be able to take dance instruction otherwise. “At the end of the school year,” writes Cheryl Flanagan, Heather’s mother, “they join in a recital with Perimeter Ballet to perform a dance and show off their brand-new ballerina costumes.”

Heather says one of her favorite memories of the program was the day of the recital, when the young girls performed for an audience of several hundred people.

“One of the girls started to cry right before she went on stage, so one of my co leaders took the time to kneel next to her, give her a hug, and encourage her until she was ready to go on stage,” Heather said.

“She went on to dance beautifully.

The smiles on all of the girls’ faces, after they finished the dance, were so joyful. I love being a part of something that brings that kind of joy to people.”

Dance isn’t her only interest, her mom says. Heather’s also active at church, is an officer in two clubs at Norcross High, started a ballet exercise class for her peers, and is writing a book. ■

Camille Hollier Camille Hollier is passionate about art and service. A student at Greater Atlanta Christian School for 13 years, the 17-year-old Camille recently won a Scholastic Art Silver Key National Award and is creating an AP Art portfolio called “Unexpected” to show everyday objects in unusual ways to demonstrate the people shouldn’t be judged on appearances.

She also is planning her third mission trip to Honduras through Honduras Outreach Incorporated, which addresses the physical and spiritual needs of the residents in order to have a long-term effect on the lives of people in that country.

“I can honestly say that one of the most memorable experiences of my life has been the opportunity to serve the Honduran people in their community,” Camille wrote. “This has impacted me on

so many levels that it’s difficult to even put into words. Graciousness, kindness, gratefulness, dedication and love were just a few of the things I observed and experienced while there.

“Understanding the impact this has had on me makes me cognizant of the fact that there’s always a place where I can and must help and serve others—whether it’s down the road in Peachtree Corners or halfway around the world.” ■

Melina Jackson Melina Jackson’s father suffered with Parkinson’s disease for many years before he passed away when she was 10 years old. As a fifth grader, she decided to take action to honor her father’s memory.

The first year, Melina’s goal was to raise awareness about Parkinson’s. She arranged for a representative from the PD Gladiators, a Norcross foundation that helps people cope with the disease, to speak to students at her school on April 11, 2018, World Parkinson’s Day. Melina surveyed the students to find out what worked best. She then arranged for a school-wide Parkinson’s awareness event called “Pancakes for Parkinson’s.” She also arranged presentations so students

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could learn about Parkinson’s and what they could do to help friends or family who are suffering from a serious disease.

This school year, the 12-yearold seventh grader at Cornerstone Christian Academy plans to build on that, continuing to raise awareness, not just at school, but in the community, and possibly add some fundraising for Parkinson’s Research.

“The most memorable moment that I have of serving in my community was seeing how I had influenced my classmates,” Melina wrote. “After discussing with my school about different ways people could raise awareness to less-talkedabout diseases such as Parkinson’s,

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

a few of my close friends hosted a fundraiser for the disease at a local park. This encouraged me and my drive towards my goal for Parkinson’s because it showed me that what I had provided to the people around me was positive and impactful.”

Her work has impressed people around her, including Helen West, a teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy. “If you spend any time at all talking with Melina, you will immediately be impressed by her poise and intelligence,” West wrote.

“Although she has experienced great grief, she has demonstrated great initiative and maturity, far beyond her years.” ■

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Up and Coming

Choosing just 20 students from the many accomplished nominees proved to be a real challenge. It’s no surprise that there are far more under-20s in Peachtree Corner who deserve to be honored, so we’ve added this list of Up and Coming students.

Alec Reynolds, 17: The Mount Pisgah Christian School varsity soccer player volunteers with Meals on Wheels and the Georgia enAble Organization and started his own car-washing business. He has twice received his school’s Citizenship Award. On national holidays, Alec and his dad place small American flags next to mailboxes throughout the community to honor those who have served.

Andrew Petit, 16: The Norcross High student plays baseball, runs cross country and is active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and in his church. He took part in a mission trip to Costa Rica in 2017. Michael McLaughlin, a youth group leader at the church, said Andrew “just thinks of others all the time and acts way more mature than his age … while still being a goof ball!”

Asliee Pena Cabrera, 16: The Paul Duke STEM High senior, who was born in the Dominican Republic, takes part in organizations ranging from the CyberPatriots to the Student Government Association to the French Club. She helped start the Latin Dance club at the school and is learning her third language, French, to supplement with her Spanish and English.

Caroline Cammack, 19: As a student at Norcross High, Caroline was on the Georgia High School Advisory Council, captained the school’s Relay for Life team, completed 500 hours of community service, and took part in student council and band. She won the Atlanta United Peachtree Corners Civic Association’s Rising Star Award for 2019 and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Cup. She now is a freshman at Samford University.

Connor Kenworthy, 15: Connor excels in computer science. He was among the founding freshmen at Paul Duke STEM High and among the first students to study cyber security there. “He is a very creative student who likes to think outside of the box and can created amazing games and programs,” wrote his teacher, Philip Peavy. Connor also has a black belt in karate.

Emmeline Smith, 17: Emmeline, a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School and a captain of the school’s varsity cheerleaders, loves animals.

She has taken part in horse-riding competitions for eight years. She rides in hunter-jumper competitions, has two horses of her own and captains an equestrian team. She hopes to become a veterinarian.

Gary Gordon, 16: Gary stays busy playing music. The Norcross High junior has played in the school’s marching band for three years, including two as its principal percussionist. He’s also played in the school’s wind symphony for three years and its jazz band for two. He has been named to the District 13 Honor Band (for three years), the Georgia Music Educators’ Association All-State Band, the Gwinnett County Youth Symphony and the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Hannah Creedon, 15: Hannah serves as sophomore class president at Duluth High. She also is a member of the Beta Club, where she regularly performs community service activities. She excels at volleyball, is performing in the upcoming school musical and, during the summer, leads a Vacation Bible School class at Christ the King Lutheran Church.

J.D. Chipman, 17: J.D., a junior at Wesleyan School, is a three-sport athlete.

He competes at the varsity level in football, basketball and lacrosse. He also works with younger athletes as a volunteer counselor in the school’s enrichment programs in lacrosse and flag football. Off the field, he was named Top Dog of the Young Men’s

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Service League for three consecutive years after contributing the most service hours for his class.

Jessie Connor Morris, 14: Jessie volunteers at the Norcross and Peachtree Corners libraries, is active in Boy Scouts, takes part in band and school musicals and is an ambassador for 3DE at Norcross High. “Jessie was the very first student I met, as I arrived for my first day of work,” wrote Sharnissa Dunlap-Parker, the school’s 3DE director. “He greeted me with an awesome smile (that lit up the room) and excitedly extended his right hand to introduce himself to me. Jessie immediately, at only 14 years of age, made me comfortable and I knew I would love working at Norcross High School.”

John Boyd III, 17: John, a junior at Norcross High, is training to be a certified property inspector so he can move into the family business, Boyd Property Inspections, and earn money for college in order to avoid student loans. He plans to major in video game development while managing the family business in Georgia as it expands into other states.

Nathan Haynes, 17: Nathan, a senior at Paul Duke STEM High, has worked with the tech team for a student-led conference for about 1,000 students Each summer he puts in about 200 hours programing lights and stage sound. He also has packed backpacks for local school supply drives, gone on mission trips to Guatemala and taught piano to younger students. Most recently, he won the Reflections contest for Gwinnett County for his song dedicated to his grandfather’s upbringing in Africa (his grandfather passed away on June 28, 2019). His song finished second in the state contest.

Sophia Faure, 12. For Sophie, a seventh grader at Pinckneyville Middle School, ballet brings joy. “I see the excitement and energy in her eyes because for Sophia, dance is not work, it’s her passion and her dance studio, Academy of Ballet, is her second home,” wrote her mother, Elizabeth Orth. Sophie practices 14 hours a week to prepare for her role of Clara in The Nutcracker.

Stephanie Lopez: Both a full-time student at Norcross High School and a full-time employee at Taqueria Del Mar at Peachtree Corners, Stephanie never misses a day at work and she always goes above and beyond in her duties. “She’s an amazing team player full of positive attitude and charisma,” wrote co-worker Eliza Nunez.

“She’s one of the hardest workers I’ve met.”

Tatum Lowe, 17: Tatum is the oldest of four sisters and has always been taught to care for people in any way she can. She is involved in Beta Club, National Honors Society, the varsity softball team and National French Honors Society at Greater Atlanta Christian School. She is president of the French Club, where she works to make the club fun and recruit as many students as possible, whether they take French or not. ■

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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BELIEVE

Faith, Belief & Purpose

Simple Gifts, Treats for Breakfast and Other Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

By Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks, Senior Minister, Unity Atlanta Church, Peachtree Corners During the holidays, years ago, as I prepared to drive from my home in northern Virginia to visit family in New Jersey, I reminisced over my fondest memories of our times together. What came to mind was a morning breakfast of leftover pie and ice cream, before we made omelets and toast. It was part of our celebration, savoring another holiday treat together before we went our separate ways.

Creating sacred celebrations is what holidays are really about. When we feel pressure to meet others’ expectations or outshine our neighbors, we end up saying, doing and buying things that stress our bodies, minds, spirits and bank accounts.

Here are some ways to stress less and celebrate more this holiday season: ■ Consider what renews us most. This includes determining who’s most important. A beloved, aged relative who affirms our purpose or an ill BFF who needs a boost gets priority over another cocktail party.

■ When gathered with a mixed group of varying beliefs and opinions, we can strive to listen, rather than convince. We also can choose to gently disengage. When someone, especially a loved one, wants to debate, we can say something like: “I love you. Let’s agree to disagree on this one.”

■ If we can’t be physically present with loved ones, we can still call or video-chat. Schedule a specific, uninterrupted time of at least 20 minutes to connect and share.

■ Limit social media highlights to 10 minutes, once daily, so we enjoy ourselves without comparing our holiday to others’.

■ Remember: the true purpose of these holidays is celebrating rich harvests, miraculous blessings, new life, restored light and new intentions for better living. When we maintain this perspective, we often feel

more grateful for what we have and hopeful about the future.

■ Ignore trendy gadgets billed as the “must-have item” of the season.

Instead, choose lovely, simple gifts which honor the heart and mind of our loved ones. This may include movie tickets, a gift card to their favorite restaurant or 6 months of car washes.

■ Enjoy preparing a favorite treat—cakes, candies, cookies, pies, or puddings—together. And, of course, eat some of them for breakfast.

Faith Events Christmas Parents Night Out

December 6, 6-9 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Baptist Church 4480 Peachtree Corners Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-448-1313, pcbchurch.org Kids will enjoy a night of Christmas -themed fun, while parents can enjoy some time for a date night, shopping, peace and quiet, etc. Open to babies through 5th graders. Registration required. For more info, contact Julie Southern @ julie.southern@pcbchurch.org.

Breakfast with Santa

December 8, 10-11 a.m.

Unity Atlanta December events Unity Atlanta, 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-441-0585, unityatl.org For kids of all ages. Share your wish list and have your picture made with Santa, enjoy Christmas crafts and a continental breakfast. More information: unityatl.org/events/breakfast-with-santa-3/

Merry Market

December 11-14, 2-3:30 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Baptist Church 4480 Peachtree Corners Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-448-1313, pcbchurch.org Peachtree Corners Baptist Church hosts the Norcross Cooperative Ministry Merry Market. Join with the Peachtree Corners and Norcross communities in filling the Merry Market with toys and clothes for kids of all ages. More info: pcbchurch.org/events/merrymarket

Christmas Family Fun Fest Please join us as we celebrate the wonder of the Christmas season.

Sunday, December 8 - 10 a.m.

What Sweeter Music: A Festival of Carols Christmas cantata Christmas Eve, December 24 Worship Services: 4 p.m. – Family Worship 6 p.m. - Contemporary Candlelight 8 p.m.- Traditional Candlelight Christ the King Lutheran Church 5575 Peachtree Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 ctklutheran.org 770-449-1211

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

December 15, 2:30 p.m.

Perimeter Church 9500 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek 30097 678-405-2000, perimeter.org Fun for the whole family! Pre-show activities start at 2:30 p.m. and include live reindeer and sleigh for photo ops, cookie. A singalong begins at 4 p.m., followed by an animated film, “The Star.” All events are free; no registration required.

Family Chanukah Dinner and Celebration

December 15, 5-7 p.m.

Beth Shalom 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody 30360 770-399-5300, bethshalom.net Get together to celebrate Chanukah with food and friends. A silent auction will also be held to benefit Alefbet Preschool.

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Christmas Eve Candlelight Services

December 24, 1, 3, 5 & 9 p.m.

Perimeter Church 9500 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek 30097 678-405-2000, perimeter.org Drop in at Perimeter Church for a special evening of powerful music, thousands of lit candles and a message of joy and hope. Childcare is available for children, infants to 5 years, at all services except 9 p.m. No registration required.

Christmas Schedule December 15 6:30pm A dramatic reading of A Christmas Carol Donation requested for Norcross Cooperative Ministry

Christmas Eve Concert, Readers Theater and Candle Lighting Service

December 24 4:30pm Pre-service music followed by Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist Service & Children’s Pageant December 24 10:30pm Christmas Eve pre-service Sing-a-Long followed by Holy Eucharist with incense

December 24, 4:30 p.m.

Unity Atlanta December events Unity Atlanta, 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-441-0585, unityatl.org A beautiful concert of Christmas music followed by a multi-generational, delightful reader’s theater “Finding Christmas Joy” and a traditional Christmas Eve candle lighting service beginning at 5 p.m. More information: unityatl.org/events/traditional-candle-lighting-and-readers-theater-service/

December 25 10:0am Christmas Day Holy Eucharist Service Janauary 5 7:00pm Twelfth Night Burning of the Greens Refreshments

Watchnight Service

December 31, 8 p.m.-January 1, 12 a.m.

Landmark Church 3737 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Peachtree Corners 30092 landmarkchurch.org Everyone is invited to pray and praise in the New Year.

400 Holcomb Bridge, Norcross, GA 30071 770-447-1166 ccnorcross.org

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December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

39

NOURISH

My Favorite Holiday Foods & Desserts The Bramble Family Kyra, Cliff, Stevie, Reid Owner of Noble Fin

Peanut Butter Cookie Kisses

“One of the joys of making this dessert during the holidays is not the actual eating of these cookies, but the pure look of excitement in our kids’ faces. The excitement of gathering all of the ingredients, and the fun of pouring the ingredients into the bowl, making a mess and watching the kids be filled with so much excitement as the cookies get placed into the oven.” ■

Executive Chef Ken Hampton Hilton Atlanta—Peachtree Corners “I have been Executive Chef at the Hilton Atlanta—Peachtree Corners Hotel, known as the “Castle on the Hill,” for the past nine years, and I’ve seen tremendous growth in the area. Over the years, several local companies have held their holiday celebrations at our hotel. The holiday season is my favorite time of the year—I love to see the joy and happiness of our customers celebrating the season with co-workers and family.

“Our holiday collection this year includes Red Velvet Cheesecake with Bourbon Eggnog Crème, Warm Salted Caramel Vanilla Bean Cake with Peppermint Ice Cream, Cranberry Pumpkin Pie with Berry Coulis and Pearls Sugar Waffles with Mini Cider Donuts.” ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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COURTESY OF CLIFF BRAMBLE

Gina Solomon Wesleyan Artist Market

Harvest Salad “This is, hands down, a sure hit—even for those who typically do not enjoy a salad. The combination of sweet and savory is a crowd pleaser every time. Crisp green apples, toasted pecans and dried cranberries make it a seasonal specialty.”

Jeanne Aulbach Peachtree Corners City Council Jeanne likes to keep it basic.

“Generally, if I’m hosting for the holidays, I just roast a turkey and fix some candied sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and succotash.

No recipes needed!” ■

●

The salad ingredients include:

●

mixed greens lettuce

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sliced red pepper

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cubed Granny Smith apples

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sliced red onion

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toasted pecan halves

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dried cranberries

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crumbled blue cheese

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salted bagel chips and

●

homemade dressing of oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, dried mustard and poppy seeds.

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Chef Donte Youmans Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Peachtree Corners If turkey isn’t your style, Chef Youmans has a suggestion: try a halfpound lobster tail and a 7-ounce applewood-smoked, bacon-wrapped filet seared over glowing embers of Firebirds’ 100% wood fired grill.

“Our Surf and Turf is a special entree combining a flavorful hand-cut filet with a juicy lobster tail grilled to perfection.” ■

Debbie Mason Peachtree Corners First Lady While Debbie is involved with many of the city’s activities, including the Peachtree Corners Festival, she takes time to bake for her family. She shares this favorite holiday recipe.

Debbie’s Sour Cream Pound Cake 2 sticks butter, softened 3 cups sugar 6 eggs 3 cups flour

½ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.

In a different bowl, sift together the flour and baking soda. Then add the flour mixture, alternating with adding the sour cream, beginning and ending with flour. The batter should have taken on a different sheen when

it’s ready.

Add the vanilla and blend well. Pour into a greased and floured tube pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees for 90 minutes.

Enjoy! ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

►Nourish Briefs BurgerIM Opening at The Forum Gourmet burger restaurants are popping up in the area, but this one is something different. The name means “many burgers” in Hebrew, and the Israeli gourmet hamburger franchise offers halal-certified burgers.

The classic menu features mini-burgers with 3-ounce patties and sesame seed brioche-like buns in batches of two or three. Choose your bun—BurgerIM’s own, lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun—and patty— Angus beef, lamb, grilled or crispy chicken breast, turkey or the plantbased Impossible Burger.

The best thing is that you can mix and match, so you get several tastes in one order. For folks with a big appetite, BurgerIM has added 1/3-pound and ¼-pound burgers with additional patty choices of falafel, Hawaiian salmon, Spanish beef and dry-aged beef.

Burgers come with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, American cheese and house sauce. However, premium toppings are available, including bacon, avocado, pineapple, jalapenos, Swiss or cheddar cheese and red cabbage, as well as sautéed onions and mushrooms.

Side orders include the signature BurgerIM fries, onion rings and sweet potato fries, and milkshakes choices are vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and cookies & cream.

There are kids’ meals available. Or you can feed the whole crew with a family box: eight burgers, chicken wings, fries and onion rings. Find out more at burgerim.com. ■

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Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen Opening This Fall Things are happening fast at Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen. It’s expected to open soon at Town Center in Peachtree

There’s authentic Sicilian Pizza, too, but it’s only available on the weekends. The thick crust pizza is topped with tomato basil sauce, oregano and Italian breadcrumbs—choose a slice or party tray.

Some Bianca (non-tomato sauce) pizzas are on Fire & Stone’s menu, too, as are paninis, antipasti and salads. For dessert, there’s cannoli, lemon ricotta, tiramisu, limoncello cake and crème brulee cheesecake—and an impressive selection of beers will be on tap.

Keep up with the latest at fireandstonekitchen.com. ■

Corners.

The pizza kitchen’s menu features Napolitano and New York style pizzas. Napolitano choices include marinara, margherita, delicatessa and the hot-and-spicy diavolo. For New York style, the usual suspects are here—cheese, mushroom, pepperoni and sausage—but you’ll also find clam, carnivore, herbivore, Greek and Philly versions.

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December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

43

COMMUNITY

YMCA Honors Peachtree Corners Resident with New Playground

A local man who devoted his life to his church and his community, and especially to children, will be memorialized with a new playground to be built in his honor at the Fowler Family YMCA. On Nov. 8, balloons flew over Peachtree Corners as about 100 people celebrated the launch of a fundraising campaign for the Manning Playground.

John Manning, (pictured above) a 30-year Neely Farm resident, died about a year ago in a tragic accident. He was remembered on what would have been his 72nd birthday. Manning gave children’s sermons as a volunteer for more than 30 years at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church.

At a young age, he became a volunteer YMCA counselor. Over his lifetime, he served on countless YMCA boards and committees, including at the Fowler Family YMCA. Mark Thornell, executive director of the Fowler Family YMCA, said the organization is excited to continue Manning’s legacy. “Through our after-school care program, summer day camps and family memberships, our YMCA sees hundreds of kids each year at our facility,” he said. “With a new educational-based creative playground that has STEM components, we have an opportunity to better serve these children.”

To donate to the playground, visit ymcaofmetroatlanta.givingfuel.com/john-manning. ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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A

D A | Sarah Manning Locke, John Manning’s daughter, speaks to the crowd about her Dad and the importance of continuing his legacy with the YMCA and what a gift it is to be able to honor him with a playground.

B

B | Eric Christ, Manning Playground Co-chair and PTC City Councilman presents opening remarks.

C | Lauren Koontz, CEO of YMCA, provides remarks on the YMCA’s mission and how a playground can impact children’s lives.

D | Mark Thornell, Fowler Family YMCA, Executive Director, speaks about the importance and need of this playground for the children of the YMCA and PTC.

C

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Changing Inmates’ Lives with Man’s Best Friend

S

usan Jacobs-Meadows looks beyond the bars that confine men and the cages that hold cast off dogs. Reaching for the good that she believes they all hold, she brings them together for mutual rehabilitation.

The Peachtree Corners resident is the founder and executive director of Canine CellMates, a nonprofit program that pairs Fulton County jail inmates with dogs caged up on potential death rows.

Since its start six years ago, more than 350 men have completed the program and more than 140 dogs have been adopted.

For her program’s efforts, Jacobs-Meadows was recently named a Mercedes-Benz USA Greatness Lives Here hero. The award recognizes unsung heroes making a difference in Atlanta, where MBUSA is headquartered.

It came with the gift of a promotional video filmed at the jail that shows inmates training, playing and just sharing some unconditional love with the dogs.

“I think dogs are a gift,” Jacobs-Meadows says in the video.

“My belief tells me that God gave dogs something he didn’t give other animals. He gave them the ability to look inside a human being and find the good that exists in there, and then he gave them the ability to help that person see that in themselves.”

Through her program, fueled with the help of 45 active volunteers, thoroughly assessed dogs from Fulton County Animal Services are selected to live in the jail for 10 weeks. Six dogs cycle through pairs of inmates

By Donna Williams Lewis

46

Right, Susan Jacobs-Meadows Photos courtesy of Canine CellMates

who work with Canine CellMates trainers to make them better candidates for adoption through socialization and obedience training.

The men also attend classes six days a week to focus on resume and interviewing skills, personal development, trauma support, resilience training and basic computer literacy. Speakers are brought in to motivate and inspire them, and Jacobs-Meadows advocates for them in court.

“What I knew would happen is I would fall in love with these dogs. What I didn’t know was I would fall in love with these men,” Jacobs-Meadows said. “We tell them, ‘While you’re here, you’re our family, and for as long as you want us, when you leave,

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

you will still be our family.’”

Upon their release, Canine CellMates will help the men with everything from food, clothing and loaded MARTA cards to help finding drug rehab programs and transitional housing. The program also keeps up with the adopted dogs, some of whom can be seen on the “Happy Tails” page of the program’s website.

Jacobs-Meadows’ immediate goals include acquiring office space and creating a Canine CellMates how-to guide so the program can be replicated by others. Longer term, she hopes to see Canine CellMates offer its own transitional housing.

The program is funded solely through donations and sponsorships, and visual images are key peachtreecornerslife

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to telling its story, Jacobs-Meadows said. “I think one of our most important jobs in Canine CellMates is to humanize these men in the eyes of the public,” she said. “When you share their words and their faces, people almost have to start considering them as human beings.”

Learn more

Canine CellMates seeks donations, sponsorships and a wide variety of volunteers. For more info, and to see dogs available for adoption, visit canineCellMates.org. See the Greatness Lives Here video at youtube.com/ watch?v=TsQQSc_gCpQ&feature=youtu.be. ■

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COURTESY OF JEANINE BEST

Little Library Opens in Amberfield A new Little Free Library is supplying free books to readers at the Amberfield neighborhood pool in Peachtree Corners. Its official ribbon cutting was held near the end of October.

Many people were involved in the project. Jeanine Best sponsored it and members of Girl Scout Troop 3009 volunteered time and hard work constructing it as part of their work toward earning their Silver Award.

“Our goal with this library is to “Take A Book and Share A Book,” and to share the love of reading with our neighbors,” said Best, who also had a big thank you for the families who donated books. “This wouldn’t be possible without everyone’s help!”

Little Free Libraries are found throughout Gwinnett County and in several Peachtree Corners neighborhoods, including Wedgewood Chase. ■

Book Notes

Peachtree Corners Library | What Our Neighbors Are Reading TOP TEN ADULT FICTION TITLES FOR SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2019

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarity The Night the Lights Went Out by Karen White Unsheltered: A Novel by Barbara Kingsolver All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin Comfort and Joy by Kristin Hannah The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See The Guest Book by Sarah Blake Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine: A Novel by Gail Honeyman The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

TOP TEN NON-FICTION TITLES FOR SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2019

1. Whiskey in a Tea Cup: What Growing up in the South Taught me

about life, love and Baking Biscuits by Reese Witherspoon 2. Barefoot Contessa Foolproof: Recipes You Can Trust by Ina Garten 3. The Bronte Cabinet: Three Lives in Nin Objects by Deborah Lutz 4. Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave

by Joanna Gaines 5. The Last Castle: The Epic Story of Love, Loss, and American Royalty

in the Nations Largest Home by Denise Kiernan 6. What Color Is Your Parachute? 2019: A Practical Manual for

Job Hunters and Career-Changers by Richard Nelson Bolles 7. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade

by Robert Cialdini 8. Ottolenghi Simple: A Cookbook by Yotam Ottolenghi 9. The Fat for Fuel Ketogenic Cookbook: Recipes and Ketogenic Keys to

Health from a World Class Doctor and an Internationally Renowned Chef by Joseph Mercola 10. I’ll be Gone in the Dark: One Woman’s Obsessive Search for

the Golden State Killer by Michelle McNamara

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December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

49

COMMUNITY

Veterans Day Service at Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument Every year, Veterans Day gives us a chance to pause and honor the sacrifices, courage and patriotism of the men and women who have worn the military uniform.

Peachtree Corners residents had an opportunity to honor its own November 11 at the Veterans Monument located on the Town Green at the Peachtree Corners Town Center (5200 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092).

The ceremony included music by the Norcross High School Band and A Capella Chorus, posting of colors by Norcross High School JROTC and guest speakers. Film actor Daryl Keith Johnson recited an article titled, “A French Soldier’s Impression of Americans.” The ceremony concluded with taps to honor all veterans and active service members who have died in the past year and retirement of colors. ■ Photos by Peachtree Corners Resident Jason Getz

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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December 2019/January 2020 â– Peachtree Corners Magazine

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SPACES

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he 115-acre property formerly owned by Fiserv has been sold to The Providence Group of Georgia. The sale brings construction on the long-anticipated home development for residents 55+ on East Jones Bridge Road one step closer.

The Providence Group of Georgia, based in Suwanee, announced it expects to begin construction in January with the first homes available for sale in the fourth quarter of 2020.

The new development is a joint venture partnership between The Providence Group, a subsidiary of Green Brick Partners, Inc., and East Jones Bridge, LLC, which originally purchased the land to develop the community.

The 55+ development will offer condominiums, townhomes and single-family homes for active adults in a community of up to 916 mixed age-restricted residential units. Plans also includes age-restricted independent, assisted living and memory care components. The gated community property will feature 4,000 feet of frontage along the Chattahoochee River.

“This is welcome and important news for our community,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “As Peachtree Corners’ population ages, we want to make sure that housing for our citizens is available. This project will provide that housing option while respecting the sensitive river corridor and tree canopy.”

Residents of the planned development will have easy access to the 30-acre Jones Bridge Park, located within walking distance, and the city’s new Town Center, which is less than a mile and a half from the planned East Jones Bridge development.

For information about residential sales or rental options, contact The Providence Group of Georgia at 678-475-9400. ■

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Peachtree Corners Business Association “Where Businesses Come To Grow” Celebrating $86.5K in Total Giving The Peachtree Corners Business Association is proud to support the community through charitable giving and student scholarships. Additionally, we’re committed to helping businesses grow. PCBA hosts Networking Events, Keynote Speaker Series, Connecting Over Coffee, Lunch Clubs, Ribbon Cuttings and more. Visit our website to learn more.

PCBA offers membership levels starting at just $125 / year.

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Register today for the PCBA Year End Celebration on December 12th.

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December 2019/January 2020 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Lidl, a German discount supermarket chain, has announced plans to open a new store next year at The Forum, according to a city official. The grocery store is to be located at 5270 Peachtree Parkway, in space formerly occupied by the Earth Fare store.

City Manager Brian Johnson discussed the company’s plans in a recent Peachtree Corners Life podcast, stressing that the announcement wasn’t coming from the city.

“All I can confirm is Lidl has officially announced that they’re opening a couple locations in north metro Atlanta, and one of them is the Earth Fare space, so it’s probably fair to say that that’s what’s going to go in there,” Johnson said, in the podcast.

Lidl also plans to open stores in Brookhaven and Dunwoody next year, according to published reports.

Johnson described Lidl as a “boutique grocery store.”

“It’s a competitor of Aldi, and, in fact, if you actually go way back, there are three grocery store chains now that have all splintered off of the very first one that were owned by brothers,” he said. “Aldi, Lidl and Trader Joe’s are all grocery store chains that have come out of the very first chain, which was Aldi.”

The first Lidl store opened in Ludwigshafen, Germany in 1973. Lidl now operates 10,800 stores in 32 countries, according to its website. The company established its U.S. headquarters in Arlington, Va., in 2015. Its first store in Georgia opened in Augusta in 2017, and this year, new Lidl stores opened in Snellville, Austell and Mableton. ■

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From the Mayor’s Desk

Multi-Use Trail Update, Name-the-Trail Winner Announced and More I’m delighted to report that a portion of the city’s multi-use trail that will ring Technology Park Lake in Tech Park is near completion and is expected to open by the end of the year. We will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony and announce the date and time in advance so all may attend and take an inaugural walk along the new section.

It will be an enjoyable stroll that also includes a scenic overlook of the 8-acre lake. You will be able to access the new trail section on Technology Parkway and Technology Parkway South; the path runs behind the old Recall building (now the future home of ASHRA’s world headquarters). The new trail section ties in with the current 12-foot wide trail that runs along Technology Parkway.

Spalding Drive to Peachtree Parkway. The study is expected to be finished by next summer and funded by a $300,000 ARC grant with a $75,000 City funds match for a total of $375,000. The project is designed to encourage redevelopment in the Holcomb Bridge Road-outer Peachtree Corners Circle corridor.

Our community has ranked multi-use trails among the most valued and desirable community recreational assets, and the City is committed to adding and connecting additional miles of multi-use trail network to neighborhoods and destinations. Watch for more announcements in the coming months inviting public input on the Crooked Creek trail concept.

Selfie Contest

On another topic, Local Motors, the developer of the Olli shuttle, is sponsoring a “Ride Olli The new 1/3-mile section of the multi-use trail runs Selfie Contest.” This behind the old Recall building. This section is part is a fun opportunity of the city’s planned 11.5 mile trail system that will to submit photos of wind through the community. you and your friends and family members having fun riding on the autonomous vehicle that runs weekdays along the new Curiosity Name the Trail Contest Results Lab’s test track in Technology Park. Please watch When we began the plans for the multi-use trail, for more information from Local Motors on this we also wanted to give it a special name. We ran contest. a “Name-the-Trail” contest and received over 150

Mike Mason, Mayor

Eventually, the 11.5-mile multi-use trail will wind through our entire community connecting neighborhoods, businesses, shops, restaurants and the Town Center. All sections of the trail will be ADA compliant.

entries! Resident Randy Gilbert came up with the winning name, “Corners Connector.” The new trail name suggests a connected community, which is just what the trail is designed to accomplish. The name “Corners Connector” will be the name of the city’s entire multi-use trail system. A big thanks to all of you who submitted trail name suggestions.

This new section that runs along the lake is about 1/3 of a mile long (1,500 linear feet). Trail signage with “Corners Connector” will be installed along this portion in the near future.

New Trail Along Crooked Creek

We are also conducting a feasibility study to construct another section of the multi-use trail in the vicinity of Crooked Creek.

The City Council and I appreciate your support, and as always, we are available and happy to meet with you or chat by phone on any concerns or questions you may have.

Our contact information is listed on the city’s website, www.peachtreecornersga.gov in the “Contact Us” link at the top of the homepage.

The Council and City Staff wish you and your family the happiest of holidays.

Sincerely, Mike Mason, Mayor

The proposed 2.4-mile trail would run from

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

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 40,000 residents and 2,700 businesses.

Peachtree Corners City Hall 310 Technology Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Telephone: 678-691-1200 December 2019/January 2020 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Construction on Pedestrian Bridge Underway

The Peachtree Parkway Pedestrian Bridge is now under construction thanks to the recent permit approval from Georgia Department of Transportation. Construction is scheduled to continue for the next 14-16 months until completion.

It will be a steel, thrust arch bridge connecting the multi-use path on the west side to the east side of State Route 141 which separates the Town Center and Forum developments. The design of the pedestrian bridge is intended to be a tribute to Jones Bridge, which stretched across the Chattahoochee River for decades and serves

as a namesake for many of the amenities and roads in the Peachtree Corners community.

Concrete barricades have been installed along northbound and southbound Peachtree Parkway that provide protection between the construction work zone and vehicular traffic.

Lane closures or traffic interruptions are not anticipated, but any construction activities that require impact to the vehicular lanes will be kept to a minimum during off-peak hours only, and no permanent or long-term lane closures will be involved.

Initial construction for this project will

involve driving piles for the foundation of the structural towers on each side of the bridge.

The structure itself is being manufactured now and it will be delivered and installed in Spring 2020.

The installation process will require lane closures over a weekend, and information on that process and plans for detours will be disseminated as that information is finalized and the calendar approaches the scheduled dates for the work. For questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 678-691-1200. ■

Peachtree Corners Wins Redevelopment Award for Curiosity Lab For the second time in just two years, the City of Peachtree Corners was recognized for its redevelopment efforts, this time winning the Metro Atlanta Redevelopment Summit (MARS) award for Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners.

The city’s Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners was selected by a panel of economic developers for its forward-thinking approach in creating a real-world testbed with 5G connectivity and a 1.5-mile autonomous vehicle test track and intelligent mobility incubator. Set in a 500-acre commercial office park, the test track interacts with people and vehicles going about their daily business.

“It’s exciting to see Peachtree Corners, and more specifically Tech Park, win a redevelopment award, its second in just two years,” said Councilmember Alex Wright, who first introduced the idea of developing an autonomous vehicle program. “I believe the creation of Curiosity Lab is a major step forward in the continuation of revitalizing Tech Park, putting it on the tech map not just locally, but nationally and internationally, and more importantly, helping us further realize Paul Duke’s vision of Peachtree Corners - one of the country’s original Live, Work, Play developments centered around a cutting edge Technology Park.”

The MARS Awards, held annually, recognizes outstanding redevelopment projects in the region. Each year the Atlanta region redevelopment event brings together more

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The city’s Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners was selected to win this year’s redevelopment award for its forward-thinking creation of a real-world test bed with 5G connectivity and 1.5-mile autonomous vehicle test track and intelligent mobility incubator. Pictured are: Kathryn Kieser, Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors member, Peachtree Corners Councilmembers Lorri Christopher, Weare Gratwick and Eric Christ.

than 300 developers, commercial real estate brokers, elected officials, business leaders and community development experts. This year’s event was held Oct. 24, 2019. The summit allows attendees an exclusive look at the region’s current redevelopment projects as well as insight into trends and best practices in the industry.

Partnership Gwinnett, in collaboration

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

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with The Council for Quality Growth, presented the winners of the 2019 MARS Awards recognizing redevelopment projects in the region: ■ 2019 Neighborhood Redevelopment Award Winner – Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners ■ 2019 Redevelopment Award Runner-up – Willbrooke Connector, City

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of Duluth ■ 2019 Community Redevelopment Award Winner – Stockyards ■ 2019 Community Redevelopment Award Runner-up – Broadstone at Sugar Hill ■ 2019 Regional Redevelopment Award Winner – The Mill at Etowah ■ 2019 Regional Redevelopment Award Runner-up – Pittsburgh Yards “We are honored to be recognized for our revitalization efforts in Technology Park Atlanta,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “It is an important area not only for our city but for the entire region as it is the center of over 7,500 jobs and an important driver of economic development.”

Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners is a publicly funded living lab designed to provide a real- world test environment to advance next generation intelligent mobility and smart city technology. Additional information is available at www.curiosity-labPTC.com The city received its first MARS award in 2017 for its Echo Lakeside development in recognition of an outstanding example of redevelopment, following the demolition of two 38-year-old office buildings. The removal of the buildings made room for Echo Lakeside, a 295-unit high end apartment complex that offers interconnected hiking and biking trails, lake access with a dock and a dog park. ■

Christmas and New Year’s Day Trash and Recycle Pickup Schedule This year the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays fall on Wednesday which means there will be no garbage and recycle pickup on Dec. 25, 2019 or Jan. 1, 2020.

For residents who receive service on Wednesday, pickup for these two weeks will be moved to Thursday. For residents whose regular pickup day is Thursday, service will be moved to Friday. And residents who receive service on Friday, pickup will be moved to Saturday.

This change in schedule is for these two holiday weeks only.

For questions, contact Waste Management by email at southatlantic-cs@wm.com or by telephone: 404-794-6707. ■

The Story Behind the Making of the City’s Veterans Monument Have you visited the Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument on the city’s Town Green?

Do you know the story behind the efforts to build a monument to recognize all the men and women who have served or are serving our country?

Take time to watch this video which chronicles the history of the monument that took four years and countless hours by a group of very dedicated volunteers to complete.

Howell Upchurch, a PTC resident and videographer, has recreated this extraordinary story in a 39-minute video.

View the video on the city’s website: On the homepage, under the “About” tab, select “Videos” or watch the video on the city’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCmo7xkCpc3mhhkNOvKOisrg ■

Maintaining Your Home’s Gutters and Roof The leaves and pine needles are falling. Per City Code roof drains, gutters and downspouts need to be maintained in good repair and free from vegetation and obstruction.

The gutters on your home divert rainwater from the roof and siding.

However, if your gutters are clogged with dead leaves, pine needles and other outdoor debris, this can cause the water to back up in the gutter.

When this happens, many problems can result including water creeping up under the roof shingles and leaks in the ceiling which can then cause entire sections of the gutter system to sag due to the increased weight.

Inspecting and keeping your roof and gutters clean and clear can help you avoid possible costly repairs. ■

Free Photo and Video Classes for Residents The City is working with Tytan Pictures, an Emmy-award-winning company, to provide instruction on a variety of photography and video topics.

The classes cover everything from camera basics, lighting techniques and landscape photography to tips for advanced photographers. Check the city calendar for upcoming classes and information on how to register, location and times. Classes available only for those who live or work in the city. ■

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

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS The Real Dangers of Carbon Monoxide The clock is ticking toward fall again, and we must ready ourselves and our homes for cooler weather. With that we must have our heating equipment checked to be sure it is ready for a long and steady use. For those of us with heat sources that require the burning of fossil fuels to keep us warm, we should go that extra mile in making sure our systems are safe.

While all heating systems, electric and gas require monitoring for the possibility of fire, all fossil fuel systems such as natural gas, propane, kerosene, coal, etc. have another element of danger, Carbon Monoxide. The burning of the fossil fuel puts off another type gas (CO) that must be vented to the outdoors, with the exception of properly sized and installed unvented equipment such as but not limited to ranges, gas logs, space heaters and similar equipment not required to be vented by code.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly less dense than air. It is toxic to all animals that use hemoglobin as an oxygen carrier when encountered in concentrations at or above 35 ppm (parts per million) It is truly the silent killer in larger quantities.

Every year more than 500 Americans die from accidental exposure to carbon monoxide and thousands more across the U.S. require emergency medical care for non-fatal carbon monoxide poisoning. These products include but are not limited to, malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, ranges, water heaters, and gas and kerosene room heaters; engine-powered equipment such as portable generators; fireplaces; and

charcoal that is burned in homes and other enclosed areas. Still others die from carbon monoxide produced by non-consumer products, such as cars left running in attached garages. The CDC estimates that several thousand people go to hospital emergency rooms every year to be treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Some symptoms of CO poisoning could include, but are not limited to:  Dull headache  Weakness  Dizziness  Nausea or vomiting  Shortness of breath  Confusion  Blurred vision  Loss of consciousness

1. As you can see from the timeline above CO is a killer. The good news is there are systems designed to keep us safe and there are steps we can all take to prevent this from happening to us and our loved ones. The Residential code requires that all new homes have CO detectors installed, this is the first line of defense. If your home uses fossil fuels for heat, this is a must. If your home does not have a CO detector, you should have one installed or install one yourself before the next use of the system.

2. Next, the best advice is to have a licensed trained professional HVAC contractor examine your system every fall before use. Not all leaks are obvious, even if you have an outdoor unit, a crack may develop in the heat exchanger and allow CO to enter your home through the heat duct system. ■

Symptoms at certain levels (measured in parts per million) ppm are: • Short term early symptoms could occur in 8 hours at 50 ppm. • The same level of early symptoms within 15 minutes at 200 ppm. • Headache in 1-2 hours, life-threatening in 3 hours at 400 ppm • Headache, nausea in 45 minutes, death in 2-3 hours at 800 ppm • Headache, nausea in 20 minutes, death in 1 hour at 1,600 ppm • Headache, nausea in 5 minutes, death in 30 minutes at 3,200 ppm • Headache, nausea in 1 minute, death in 10 minutes at 6,400 ppm Two simple steps to ensure you and your family are safe

Do I Need Flood Insurance?

This is a public service announcement to bring awareness to the various resources provided by the City of Peachtree Corners for floodplain awareness. Peachtree Corners is bordered by the Chattahoochee River to the north and has numerous tributaries and streams throughout the City. Flooding damage can occur due to large rainfall events or when the natural flow of water is redirected.

A wealth of information may be found on the City’s Floodplain Management webpage that pertains to: ■ Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM): The only legal document allowed by lenders to write a flood insurance policy ■ Floodway Data: Properties located in or near the floodplain have special regulatory requirements for development. Prior to any building construction, please apply for a building permit.

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■ Special flood-related hazards, such as local drainage problems and areas predicted to be flooded in the future ■ Approximate Depth of Flooding: Information about how deep flood waters may be anticipated on a property can be provided.

■ Historical flood information: To find out if a property has been flooded in the past or is a repetitive loss ■ Wetlands and Natural Conservation Data: Areas mapped in the National Wetlands Inventory, critical habitat by the US Fish and Wildlife Services and areas receiving natural floodplain functions ■ Flood Insurance: It is mandatory for a property located in the Special Flood Hazard

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

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Area (SFHA) to purchase flood insurance.

Please visit the City’s Floodplain management webpage at https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/government/public-works/stormwater/floodplain-management Property Protection Advice: The City provides one-onone advice specific to your property. If you are concerned and have any questions pertaining to flood insurance or are in need of any flood protection advice, please contact the City’s Certified Floodplain Manager, Katherine Francesconi at kfrancesconi@ peachtreecornersga.gov to schedule an on-site appointment, a telephone call or an in-person meeting at City Hall. ■

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Preparing for the 2020 Census What is a Census and Why is it Important?

Take a Ride on Olli The self-driving shuttle is free and open for the public to ride

Once a decade, America comes together to count every resident in the United States, creating national awareness of the importance of the census and its valuable statistics. The decennial census was first taken in 1790, as mandated by the Constitution.

It counts our population and households, providing the basis for reapportioning congressional seats, redistricting, and distributing more than $675 billion in federal funds annually to support states, counties and communities’ vital programs — impacting housing, education, transportation, employment, health care and public policy.

Federal funds, grants and support to states, counties and communities are based on population totals and breakdowns by sex, age, race and other factors.

Your community benefits the most when

Tuesday, Oct. 1, was the official launch date for two driver-less shuttles which will make regular weekday trips along Technology Parkway.

The shuttle is free to ride but a signed waiver is required for each passenger. For more information including obtaining a waiver, a daily schedule, shuttle stops and more, please visit the city’s dedicated web page located on the city’s website (www. peachtreecornersga.gov): Click on the “About” tab and select “Ride Olli” in the pulldown menu.

Technology Parkway is now part of an intelligent mobility test bed and incubator called Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners.

You may expect other autonomous vehicles to use these lanes as they test their technologies.

The autonomous vehicles travel in specially dedicated outer lanes marked with blue chevrons. while regular traffic uses the two interior lanes. Do not use the outer lanes, these lanes are for autonomous vehicle traffic only.

Please use caution when making right and left hand turns from the interior lanes as you will have to cross over the AV lanes. These shuttle vehicles are carrying passengers.

For questions, please contact City Hall via email at info@peachtreecornersga.gov or by telephone: 678-691-1200. ■

the census counts everyone.

When it’s time to respond, most households will receive an invitation in the mail. Every household will have the option of responding online, by mail, or by phone. Depending on how likely your area is to respond online, you’ll receive either an invitation encouraging you to respond online or an invitation along with a paper questionnaire.

Look for more information in the mail in early 2020. ■

Find PTC Events, Restaurants and More on the City’s ‘Corners Connect’ App Have you downloaded the new Corners Connect app? Find events, dining and entertainment, bus routes, city information, news, weather and more.

You can also find a parking spot within the Town Center and get assistance navigating to the available parking locations.

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

Use the app to report a non-emergency police issue, traffic problem, find links, phone numbers to pay your water bill and county property taxes, or to register to vote. The FixIt app is also accessible through the Corners Connect app.

The City’s app is free and available for both iPhones (App Store) and Android (Play Store) users. Use “Corners Connect” to search for the app. ■

December 2019/January 2020 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Christopher Re-elected to City Council Seat City Councilmember Lorri Christopher prevailed in the Nov. 5 election retaining her Post 5 council seat.

Christopher was first elected to the Post 5 seat in 2012.

Christopher collected 978 votes while opponent, Cherlon Mathi-

The Peachtree Corners elections

as-Day, captured 681 votes. The final vote count included absentee

are held at a single polling location

and early voter ballots.

in the City Hall’s Elections Room. ■

The mayor’s seat and council seats for Posts 1 and 3 were also up for election this year, however only the Post 5 seat was challenged.

Proper ID Required for Door-to-Door Soliciting

Keep Autumn Leaves off the Ground and out of the Storm Drain It is that beautiful time of the year again, the season of Autumn when the tree leaves change from green to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. With this seasonal change, the deciduous trees begin to shed their leaves and consequently bestow more yard work upon every household’s lawn maintenance designee.

How do you handle and dispose of the leaves that fall on your yard? For a lot of people, the easy solution to clear their lawn from the influx of leaves is by raking or blowing the leaves into the street and therefore, directly into a stormwater inlet such as a catch basin or curb inlet.

What people do not know is that leaves, and landscaping trimmings, clog stormwater systems, preventing water from entering the drainage system. The redirection of the water flow, by preventing the stormwater runoff from entering its designed system, can cause localized flooding and damage to property and infrastructure. Not only can the improper of disposal cause flooding, but it can also impair our water resources.

Leaves in the stormwater system begin to decay, releasing nutrients that encourage algae blooms and therefore, depletes oxygen

content in water and suffocates aquatic life.

Advice: Never blow or dump leaves, grass clippings, needles and other yard waste into the street, stormwater drain, drainage ditch or surface water. Instead, dispose of yard waste by bagging them as solid waste. Alternatively, you can recycle this organic yard matter by using a mulching mower, adding them to your compost bin, or spreading them as a protective mulch. Don’t wait until after the storm to do your yard maintenance.

Remember – no one wants to be the one responsible for street flooding in their neighborhood. Do the right thing and keep our storm drains free and our waterways clear! ■

Did you know ... any person who solicits orders door-to-door or house-to-house for sales, subscriptions or conducting business of any kind must first file an application with the city and obtain an occupation tax certificate.

All solicitors are also required to have a work permit from Gwinnett County. The county issues a picture ID badge which must be prominently displayed.

However, bona fide charitable or nonprofit organizations whose field sales representatives are under the age of 15 are not required to obtain an occupational tax certificate, canvasser’s or solicitor’s permit.

The Gwinnett ID badge is a white laminated card with the solicitor’s name, photo, business name, and includes an expiration date.

The Gwinnett County ID incorporates a silver sticker located in the lower right corner that reads “GCPD permit.”

Call the Gwinnett County Police Department to report solicitors who do not have the proper credentials, 770-513-5700. ■

Do You Know a U.S. Veteran?

Contributing a paver is a great way to remember veterans who have served or are serving our

ORDER A BRICK PAVER FOR PEACHTREE CORNERS VETERANS MONUMENT

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Inside Peachtree Corners ■ December 2019/January 2020 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

country. Order a Brick Paver to be placed at the Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine â– December 2019/January 2020 â– LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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