Peachtree Corners Magazine - December / January 2024 by Peachtree Corners Magazine

Host the Perfect Holiday Party P34

OFFICIAL CITY NEWS P73 ►

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ISSUE 30 ■ LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

FACES OF PEACHTREE CORNERS PAGE 20

POSTAL CUSTOMER

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

MORE THAN BOOKS 2

See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Your Dental Experience Awaits You 149

New Patient Special Exam • Radiographs • Cleaning $496 Value

Emergency Visit Exam • Radiographs $264 Value

Link Dental Care 214 Years Combined Experience! MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED WE ALSO OFFER IN-OFFICE DENTAL PLANS & CARE CREDIT

Schedule Your Appointment Online or Call Today!

www.LinkDentalCare.com | 770.796.5640 6270 Smithpointe Drive, Peachtree Corners/Norcross DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Renew. Refresh. Reface. Redefine Your Space

Before

After

FREE In-Home Estimates

Family Owned & Operated

Services • We use 1/8’ solid hardwood facing vs. laminate that others may use. • All facing, doors & drawer fronts are painted in our shop, no mess at your house! • We use only Sherwin Williams professional paint • New facing is applied to all exposed cabinets with solid wood cabinet doors and drawer fronts.

• New European soft close door hinges are added. • Large selections of New deep drawers, glass panels, storage accessories, etc., are available. • Completed Installation under one week. No fumes, gases, or mess! • Kitchen is fully functional during installation. • Financing options are available.

Award Winning Service Without Disrupting Your Life

FREE Trash Roll Outs Please present this coupon at time of your visit and use Code PCM23

3291 Laventure Drive, Chamblee, GA 30341 • info@kitchenfrontsofga.com

770.455.3139 • www.KitchenFrontsofGA.com

Future-Proof Your Business with 100%

Fiber Internet

100% Fiber. Super Fast Speeds. Real Results. Combined voice and data on a single network

Process multiple customer transactions quickly

Customizable plans to fit YOUR budget and needs

Run cloud-based apps, services, and backups — simultaneously

LOCAL sales and support team

Download videos, large images and reports seamlessly

Connect with your local team in Peachtree Corners!

www.clearwavefiber.com/BizFiber Clearwave Fiber Internet service plans feature unlimited data with no data caps and no overage charges. Intentional speed reductions may be triggered at the customer-level when an individual customer drives network congestion that negatively impacts other customers. Service not available in all areas. Broadband speeds may not be available in all areas, are not guaranteed, are subject to a number of factors and are measured via direct connection (not via Wi-Fi). ©2023, Clearwave Fiber LLC; logos are registered trademarks and as such, protected property of their respective companies; all rights reserved

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY

Faces of Peachtree Corners

Host the Perfect Holiday Party

PHOTO ESSAY

In Motion

First Up Events

Is a Pickleball Complex on the Horizon for Peachtree Corners?

Holiday Events 2023

Personalized Medicine: Finding the Root Cause of Symptoms

Every Patient is Family at Innovative Smiles

Knowledge: Stripling Elementary Sets Sights on STEM Certification

Local Students Shine as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Doing Good: Holiday Faith Events

Business: MAGISNAT Introduces Community to the Power of Polyphenols at Wellness Event

Solis Peachtree Corners Breaking Ground

North American Properties Invests in Security Technology at the Forum Peachtree Corners

Business Organizations and Events

Peachtree Corners Traffic Improvements Will Continue into 2024

New City Marshals Sworn In During November City Council Meeting

Curiosity Lab Hold 10th Annual SMART Community Exchange

Nourish: New, Fast Casual Tex-Mex Restaurant Capital Tacos Has Something for Every Taste

ABOUT THE COVER Jim Gaffey is one of our 20 Faces of Peachtree Corners. He is pictured with his wife Carol. (Photo courtesy of the Gaffeys.)

PEACHTREE CORNERS The official city news and updates

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

PEACHTREE CORNERS MAGAZINE EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY EDITOR EMERITUS

KATHY DEAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE RICO FIGLIOLINI

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

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

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

Publisher & Executive Editor

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING

RITA FIGLIOLINI

KATHY DEAN

JULIE DAVIS

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

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

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

Editorial Consultant

PATRIZIA WINSPER

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.

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.

PEACHTREECORNERS PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. P. O. BOX 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com Peachtree Corners Magazine is published six times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines. DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 issue Volume 5 Number 30 ©2023 Peachtree Corners Magazine The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com. This publication is independently and privately owned, and managedby Mighty Rockets LLC

Writer

HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR

ANNA DELVILLAR

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

Anna is a contributor to Peachtree Corners Magazine. She graduated with a B.A. in English Composition from Georgia State University and has five years of experience performing multimedia writing, editing, and publishing for automotive, small business, and general assignment media.

Graphic Designer

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

Editor Emeritus

JULIE DAVIS

Account Executive

Contributing Editor

Writer/Newsletter Editor

TRACEY RICE

KRISTEN CORLEY

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

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

Photographer

Writer

BRUCE JOHNSON

GEORGE HUNTER

Bruce has been a resident of Gwinnett County for over 30 years and is heavily involved in the Southwest Gwinnett community. A former General Manager of the Hilton Atlanta Northeast hotel, he is active with the SWGC, PTC Business Association and Norcross community meetings/events. Currently, he works for Explore Gwinnett.

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.

Photographer

RAINA LOGAN

CAROL CASEY

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

Carol Casey is an experienced writer and digital marketer and loves learning about how businesses and individuals build their success stories. She is the published author of a series of children’s books and a resident of Peachtree Corners.

Writer/Podcast Production

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Writer

peachtreecornerslife

WHERE EVERYDAY IS A HOLIDAY! 5242 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 www.hwsteakhouse.com hwsteakhouse #CelebrateEveryday

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

FIRST UP - EVENTS

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do

ONGOING

December

Senior Bridge Club Every Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Norcross Gallery and Studios Silent Auction

Pinckneyville Park

Through Saturday, December 9

4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920 Admission: free

Norcross Gallery and Studios 116 Carlyle St., Norcross norcrossgalleryandstudios.org, 770-840-9844

The club meets every Thursday for ages 50 and up. Please call for availability.

Yielded Men Fridays weekly. 7-8 a.m. Moe’s Original Barbecue 5005 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 810, Peachtree Corners yieldedmen.org Admission: free Yielded Men (YM) is a weekly safe, small discussion group focused on building relationships and encouraging men in their walk with God. Each week the group addresses a specific issue that most men face in life. All are welcome.

Gwinnett Chess Club Every other Saturday. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Pinckneyville Park 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920 Register with Tom Emch, 770-605-0429, ibemch@charter.net Admission: free Ches

The gallery is open Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. The silent auction features many original works that are small, affordable and perfect for gift giving. A colorful, abstract painting by international artist Chitra Ramanathan, valued at $1000, will be raffled off. The gallery is a 501(c) (3) organization and the auction supports community outreach programs such as Annandale Village and C.H.E.E.R. Homeschool Social Program. Art lovers may view and bid on paintings any time until the final closing reception and final bidding on December 9.

Sports on the Screen — SEC Championship Saturday, December 2. 4 p.m. Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Green Blvd., Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov Tailgate and cheer on your favorite teams. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own coolers or purchase food and drink from one of Town Center’s many restaurants.

Music Open Mic with Derek Important Dates DECEMBER 6 Saint Nicholas Day 8-15 Hanukkah 24 Christmas Eve 25 Christmas Day 26-Jan. 1 Kwanzaa 31 New Year’s Eve JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day FEBRUARY Black History Month 2 Groundhog Day

Tuesdays, December 5 and 19 and January 2 and 16. 7-10 p.m. Kettlerock Brewing 6025 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 1, Peachtree Corners kettlerockbrewing.com

10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022 Tickets: $18; students and seniors, $16 About the show: Set in Atlanta, Georgia in December of 1939, this romantic comedy / drama follows the exploits of an upper class Jewish family as they try to find a suitable husband for their unpopular daughter.

Sports on the Screen — Army v Navy

January

Bring along friends to cheer for your favorites. Bring a cooler or pick up some food and drink from a Town Center restaurant.

Euchre Meetup Thursdays, December 14, 28 and January 11, 25. All day. Kettlerock Brewing 6025 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 1, Peachtree Corners kettlerockbrewing.com Admission: free Meet with friends and play Euchre. All experience levels are welcome.

Thursday, December 14. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Lionheart Theatre

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Green Blvd., Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov

Guitarist Derek hosts an open mic that showcases local musical talent.

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

Thursdays, December 14 and January 11. 6:45-8:15 p.m.

Saturday, December 9. 3 p.m.

Second Thursday

December 7-17

Peachtree Corners Photography Club Group Meet Up

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

Admission: free

The Last Night of Ballyhoo

ber’s program features Freight & Passenger Trains.

Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth train-museum.org, 770-476-2013 Tickets: Adults, $18; seniors 65+, $15; children ages 2-12, $12 An interactive education program for parents and children aged 2 to 4, Second Thursday features games, crafts and stories related to the vehicle of the month. Decempeachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Cornhole League January 11-February 22. 6-9 p.m. The Forum 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com Cornhole ATL has grown to be the home of over 400 cornhole players. Cornhole is an easy-to-play social game with a league at The Forum. The seven-week Winter League includes a season-ending tournament with prizes and a Championship Trophy. Note that players must be registered with Cornhole ATL to compete. For further info, email info@cornholeatl.com.

Annie JR. January 25-28 Norcross High School Auditorium 5300 Spalding Dr., Norcross nhs-drama.com About the show: peachtreecornerslife

Adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical Annie, Annie JR. is a 60-minute version of the show that’s been adapted for younger performers.

The Radio Play Disaster January 26-February 4 Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022 Tickets: $18; students and seniors, $16 About the show: In this short comedy, self-proclaimed genius Harlan Bean is ready to make history with his science-fiction radio masterpiece Battle of the Planets. But when the broadcast is in the hands of an ambitious actress with her own vision for her character, several terrified last-minute replacements jump in, and a disgruntled sound engineer is out for revenge. The mayhem in the studio makes an alien invasion look like a piece of cake.

Godspell January 31-February 3 Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org, 770-448-7640 About the show: The show is structured as a series of parables primarily based on the Gospel of Matthew. The music largely consists of lyrics from traditional hymns set to music.

Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA

ELIZABETH KAY PINDER, REALTOR®

As a 26-year resident of Peachtree Corners and a real estate professional, I have in-depth knowledge of our local market.

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

Lifelong Learners Every other Friday, 12:15 p.m. For ages 50 and up, Lifelong Learners offers seniors the chance to come together and enjoy guest speakers, local field trips and spirited cultural discussions. Held in the Senior Center. For more information, contact Rob Wilson at robertw@ymcaatlanta. com.

Whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, or if you’d like to hear more about local market activity, let’s chat!

YOUR PERSONAL ADVOCATE IN REAL ESTATE

SCAN

ElizabethKay.Pinder@HarryNorman.com ElizabethKayPinder.HarryNorman.com

to connect to my website

Atlanta Perimeter | 4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30338 | HarryNorman.com

Grief and Loss Support Group Every Monday, 11 a.m. Grief and loss are two of the most difficult emotions to face, but you don’t have to face them alone. This is a safe and caring environment for participants. Held in the Senior Meeting Room. For more information, contact Ellie Garrett at ejgarrett@gmail.com.

Caring for Those Who Care Every Tuesday, 11:45 a.m. The YMCA’s weekly Caregivers Group provides a dedicated meeting space for caregivers to offer and receive emotional support. If you are providing care for a loved one, or want to learn more about long term caregiving, this group is for you. The group offers practical information while respecting confidentiality and encouraging camaraderie. Held in the Senior Meeting Room.

International Charter Academy of Georgia ear 2024-2025 School Y

Open House & Scho for the ol To s U ur 1.10 or 2.8 or 3.13.2024 Join Kindergarten to 5th grade English-Japanese Dual Immersion State Charter School Open to all Georgia children who meet age requirements!

3705 Engineering Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-604-0007 info@internationalcharteracademy.org

Garage Door Repair

Replacement Since 1935!

For more information, contact Mary Crawley at mcrawley@wans.net.

Other Senior Activities include: ■ Canasta — Every Monday, 2 p.m. in the Senior Meeting Room; and ■ Dominoes — Every Thursday, 10:45 a.m., in the Senior Meeting Room.

404-USA-DOOR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Overhead Door Company of Atlanta™ A Company

5105 Avalon Ridge Parkway NW Peachtree Corners, GA 30071 OverheadDoorAtlanta.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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

Doggie Tales

Hibernation! Who Does it? And How? Monday, December 18. 1-2 p.m. Admission: free Learn about hibernation and the critters that do it — and make a cozy critter to take home. Ages 6-11 are welcome.

Saturday, December 2. 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Code Collaborators: Draw with Code!

Admission: free

Friday, December 8. 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Learn How to Write a Letter

Admission: free

Tuesday, December 19. 4-5 p.m.

Artists aged 12-18 will learn about pair programming and have fun coding their own masterpieces.

Admission: free

Children 5-10 are invited to practice reading skills with trained therapy dogs.

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

Kids aged 6-11 will learn how to write a letter for any occasion and find out how letters travel throughout the United States.

Admission: free

Robotics: EV3 Color Sensor

Stories, songs and simple rhymes for children 2 and under and their caregivers.

Wednesday, December 6. 5-6 p.m.

Fun for preschool children, ages 3-5, with stories, games and songs.

Gingerbread Engineering Thursday, December 7. 4-5 p.m. Admission: free Kids aged 6-11 will use engineering skills as they make simple structures out of gingerbread, icing and candies.

Meet Author Paige Watts Thursday, December 7. 7-8 p.m. Admission: free; registration recommended Travel Writer and Atlanta local Paige Watts will talk about her new book, “What’s With Atlanta?”, where she dives deep into the history and culture of Atlanta. Adults 19+ are welcome.

Learn about the importance of making healthy eating choices and make your own healthy snack.

Legal Resources at the Library (Bilingual) Tuesday, January 9. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Admission: free Find out about free legal resources that can be accessed at the library; presented in English and Spanish.

Painting for Seniors Thursday, January 11. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Admission: free Unwind and learn how painting can promote a healthy lifestyle.

Admission: free

Everyone ages 6 and up can learn the basics of 3D Printing and how to troubleshoot problems.

Admission: free

Thursday, January 18. 4-5 p.m.

Admission: free

Thursdays, December 7, 14, 21 and January 11, 18, 25. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Monday, January 8. 4-5 p.m.

Chess Boards and Checker Crowns

Intro to 3D Printing

Preschool Storytime

Healthy Snacks

Enjoy and learn how to play classic board games like chess and checkers.

Robotics: EV3 Color Sensor Sunday, December 10. 2-3 p.m. Admission: free Kids 6-15 years old will learn how to code a pre-built robot to sense colors.

Sewing Machine Basics Wednesday, December 13. 5-6 p.m. Admission: free; registration required Anyone aged 12+ can learn to set up and operate a sewing machine.

Homeschool Hangout: Candy Cane Engineering Thursday, December 14. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Admission: free; registration requested

Winter Break Storytime with Stuffed Animal Sleeper Wednesday, December 20. 6-7 p.m. Admission: free; registration required Children aged 0-11 will enjoy a Winter Storytime with their favorite stuffed animal, then tuck in the critters for a night of adventures at the library. Stuffed animals can be picked up the next day.

Meeting Elephant & Piggie!

Thursday, January 18. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Admission: free This month’s get together for homeschooling families will focus on eyes, eyesight and Louis Braille.

Modern Messaging Tea Party Friday, January 26. 3-4 p.m. Admission: free Celebrate Lewis Carroll’s birthday with tea and discuss ways to improve your emailing skills.

Tuesday, January 2. 1-1:30 p.m. Admission: free This is a special story time, for kids ages 0-11, that features Gerald and Piggie from the popular “Elephant & Piggie” books by author Mo Williams. For kids ages 0-11.

Kids aged 6-11 use engineering, problem solving and math skills to design a structure that incorporates candy canes.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Homeschool Hangout: Eyes

peachtreecornerslife

DIY Calming Activities for Children Wednesday, January 31. 4-5 p.m. Admission: free Learn how to make fun sensory activities for children with sensory integration needs.

peachtreecornerslife

HISTORIC NORCROSS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE November 11 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Downtown Norcross

CARRIAGE RIDES

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

December 1 - December 22 Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Downtown Norcross

December 1 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Thrasher Park

Funk Cake

HISTORIC NORCROSS CHRISTMAS VILLAGE December 1 - 3 Downtown Norcross

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

December 6 - December 22 Every Wednesday & Friday 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Downtown Norcross

aplacetoimagine.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Norcross Gallery and Studios

Eddie Owen Presents Red Clay Music Foundry

3116 Main St., Duluth | eddieowenpresents.com

116 Carlyle St., Norcross | norcrossgalleryandstudios.org, 770-840-9844

Meet the Artist of the Month December — Gail Lenahan 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Evening Open Studio Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members

45 South Café, 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross

Moderator: Patty Grewe-Mullins, pgrewemullins@gmail.com

Ongoing

Workshop

Live Model Sketch Group

Painting with Fabric

Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m. Cost: $16 for members; $22 for non-members; package pricing available Moderators: Lynda Ellis, lyndaellis@gmail.com; Anne Hall, annehallstudio@yahoo.com

Daytime Open Studio

Stand Up Comedy Night Hosted by Yoshee! December 1, January 5, February 2. 8 p.m. The first Friday of the month features a night of comedy, hosted by Yoshee So. The Atlanta-based comic says he was raised by immigrant parents and TV sitcoms of the 80s and 90s.

Saturday-Sunday, December 2-3. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

End of the Line: Allman Brothers Tribute Band

Cost: $100 for members; $120 for nonmembers

December 8. 8 p.m.

Instructor: Gail Lenahan, gaillenahan@comcast.net Create artwork using combinations of printed colorful fabric glued to canvas. Once it is glued, beads, twine and other embellishments can be applied. Students will start with simple fish to learn the technique. All supplies are included except a pair of small, pointed, sharp scissors.

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

Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members Moderator: Anne Labaire, labaireart@gmail.com

The band provides a comprehensive and authentic musical experience that recreates the sound and spirit of the Allman Brothers Band.

Hot Licks & Rhetoric: Steely Dan Tribute January 13. 8 p.m. HL&R is an Atlanta-based ninepiece group that showcases and celebrates the timeless music of Steely Dan.

Musical Chairs with Sonia Leigh with Adam Mac and Angie K January 26. 8 p.m. Sonia Leigh made her country catapult in 2011 with a major debut record 1978 December. Her single “My Name Is Money” landed #36 on billboard hot 100 charts.

Jackson County Line January 6. 8 p.m. ►An Atlanta five-piece band, Jackson County Line has a distinctive Americana brand of music with ear sticky songwriting laced with cello, ambiance and power grooves.

Wesleyan School Family Open House

Wesleyan Wolf Players Present “Godspell”

Saturday, January 6 1-3:30 p.m. Parents and children are invited to attend this Open House designed with students and their families in mind. Attend the seated program at 1 pm to hear the head of school’s address. You can also explore the campus, ask questions to administrators, visit athletic practices, talk to teachers and coaches, and experience performances by student ensembles.

January 31-Febraury 3 (by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak) Powell Theater Shows are open to the public and tickets can be reserved here www. wesleyanschool.org/arts.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Walk-In s Alway s Welcome! rum

ive

T ac he F htr or ee um Co rne rs

Why Choose Atlanta Urgent Care?

ach

tre

ark

Experience the best urgent care from your local doctor-owned urgent care. Serving Atlanta since 2008. Walk-ins are always welcomed! We accept most insurance and offer the convenience of affordable self-pay.

CMX CinéBistro Peachtree Corners

Atlanta Urgent Care - Peachtree Corners

5246 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

HOURS

Chase Bank

Monday–Thursday: 8AM–8PM | Friday: 8AM–7PM Saturday-Sunday: 9AM–6PM

www.AtlantaUrgentCare.com 770.464.6400 | 5246 Peachtree Parkway • Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

Atlanta Urgent Care at Peachtree Corners is located at the northeast corner of Peachtree Parkway and Peachtree Corners Circle. In the Georgia Clinic building, next door to Chase bank. Across the street from J. Alexanders Across the street from the Forum on Peachtree Parkway.

Experience the difference of Doctor-Designed Care • Insurance and Cash Patients Accepted • Walk-ins Always Welcomed

Peachtree Corners’ newest coworking space Dedicated desks and private offices

Meeting and event space

Free coffee, drinks and snacks

Podcast and production studios

24/7 Access

Free parking

Book a tour at ASBNcoworks.com

(770) 766-8323

420 Technology Pkwy, Suite 300 Peacthree Corners, GA, 30092

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Is a Pickleball Complex on the Horizon for Peachtree Corners?

These measurements were gleaned from a stakeholder meeting back in June, and SFA condensed them into three major points: The first is to create a best-in-market hub for pickleball tournaments and events that attract non-local visitors to Peachtree Corners. This hub must make an economic impact, including hotel room nights and direct spending to adjacent businesses. The second point is to leverage revenue-generating opportunities and spaces to create a business model that limits ongoing subsidy requirements. Lastly, to develop an adaptable, flexible facility and operating model that maximizes use for pickleball tourism. “So, what does that look like?” asked Reeder. “We actually look at three different options.”

Examining the possibilities

n the past few decades, a sport with a kind of silly name has been sweeping the suburbs. Pickleball uses a smaller version of a tennis court with a plastic whiffle-type ball and a racquet that’s not unlike a ping-pong paddle. Reports have shown that people enjoy the sport because it’s not as strenuous or expensive to play and doesn’t require the same skill level as

By Arlinda Smith Broady

tennis. Yet, finding a place to play has become increasingly difficult.

Pickleball in Peachtree Corners Always keeping its finger on the pulse of the community, the city of Peachtree Corners may be considering a major facility for players and spectators alike. “As you all remember, a number of months ago, we were in preparation for getting to a point where we might be able to make a decision on this phenomenon, we all know is pickleball,” said City Manager Brian Johnson. “How big is it here in Peachtree Corners? What might the city be involved in facilitating? Would it be of value to us? How much would it cost?” he asked. With those questions in mind, the city of Peachtree Corners contracted with Sports Facilities Advisory (SFA) in April to produce a five-year

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

financial forecast for developing a pickleball complex. The findings were presented at a city council work session on Sept. 12.

Key criteria for the complex The city asked for several models, including indoor and outdoor facilities, a possible full-service restaurant and basic concession offerings. Multiple models were considered based on their ability to complement, rather than compete with, national scale pickleball events currently scheduled at nearby facilities. For the city to consider such a costly endeavor, several “measurements of success” were required for it to be feasible. “We want to attract non-local visitors to an area and drive that economic impact with hotel room nights and direct spending,” said Suzanne Fisher Reeder, an account executive and project manager for SFA.

peachtreecornerslife

The first option was a local model with a 12-court facility with six indoor and six outdoor courts to support local play (ALTA and USGA). The next model was a mid-level option with 24 courts. There would be 12 Indoor and 12 outdoor covered courts. It would support local play and tournament play. “That would be weekend play and three-to-five-day tournaments,” said Reeder. The largest was a national tournament model with 60 courts, 48 indoor and 12 outdoor courts covered. “It could host very large national tournaments but also support your local players,” said Reeder. Once the options were presented, SFA took a Goldilocks approach in its recommendation. The lower-end option would be suitable for local play. It could accommodate those in Peachtree Corners looking for a

peachtreecornerslife

facility, but it would not be large enough for tournaments or attracting tourism. The high-end option wouldn’t be as cost-effective and could compete with existing businesses. Most concerning, it wouldn’t be utilized enough to account for the expense. The mid-level option appeared to be the sweet spot. “The 24-court pickleball indoor/outdoor [model] … is about 55,000 square feet of indoor [space], 35,000 square feet outdoors, seven total acres to build, and we have a full breakdown of the model,” said Reeder.

Economic impact The breakdown included food and beverage options, an outdoor event area, an indoor upstairs bar-type restaurant, a membership lounge, a parking lot and other things needed for regional tournaments and to support local players. “When we look at revenue, we look at all of the potential business units that could take place within the facility,” said Reeder. SFA calculations showed that the complex could generate about $8 million in the first four years, with year five at close to $9 million. After operating costs, profit would be

around $5 million annually. Looking at economic impact, Reeder said they expect the typical outof-towner would spend an average of $120.72 per night on food, lodgings and miscellaneous expenses. Overnight stays would start at around 4,000 hotel rooms in the first year, growing to about 16,000 rooms by year five, depending upon the number of tournaments. “We’ve also projected the number of tournaments starting at nine, leading up to 16. Including everything from one or two-day tournaments up to five-day tournaments,” said Reeder.

More work to be done The mid-level model seemed to fulfill the three requirements for success mainly because it would be operationally sustainable and wouldn’t require a subsidy. The discussion continued after SFA’s recommendation. Concerns about public and private partnerships, competition in other parts of metro Atlanta, the longevity of the concept and acquisition of property arose. The issue is far from being resolved, and the city council has a lot more research ahead. ■

TWO EXCITING PLAYS! L I O N H E A RT P R E S E N TS

L I O N H E A RT P R E S E N TS

Ira Levin’s

DEATHTRAP

NOBODY LIKES A

DIRTY HOUSE We’ll keep yours Tidy&Clean OUR SERVICES: STANDARD CLEANING

AIRBNB

DEEP CLEANING

POST CONSTRUCTION

MOVE IN/MOVE OUT

PERSONAL ORGANIZER

FREE ESTIMATE

15% OFF YOUR FIRST CLEANING (Limited offer only)

(248) 835-3714

tidyecleanservices.com

NEIGHBORS

I AM MAGGIE DIAZ, YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE GUIDE.

AS YOUR FELLOW NEIGHBOR AND PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE AGENT, I KNOW THE REAL VALUE OF WHAT THE NEIGHBORHOOD OFFERS. WHETHER YOU ARE SELLING OR LOOKING TO INVEST IN THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE AND RAISE YOUR FAMILY IN, I WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND MY SERVICE IN PROVIDING YOU WITH EXPERT ADVICE AND SUPPORT WHILE MAKING THE PROCESS SMOOTH AND STRESS- FREE.

Let’s

connect!

(470) 429-4684

“INTEGRITY, HONESTY AND EXCELLENCE IN REAL ESTATE” (770) 495-5050 ext 7981

MAGGIE@REALTORMAGGIEDIAZ.COM

WWW.REALTORMAGGIEDIAZ.COM

178 S MAIN ST. STE 100, ALPHARETTA, GA 30009

A Comedy Thriller

Directed by Scott Rousseau

NOVEMBER 3-19 2023 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 PM SUNDAY 2PM

Directed by Myrna Feldman

DECEMBER 7-17, 2023 THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 PM SUNDAY 2PM

Produced through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. Produced through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

TIX $18/$16 SENIORS/STUDENTS

404.919.4022

404.919.4022 10 College Street - Norcross, GA 30071

LIONHEARTTHEATRE.ORG

10 College Street - Norcross, GA 30071

LIONHEARTTHEATRE.ORG

DEATH, TWISTS, MURDER AND LAUGHTER!

A CHARMING PLAY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

NOVEMBER 3 - 19

DECEMBER 7 - 17

TICKETS: $18 FOR ADULTS, $16 FOR SENIORS/STUDENTS DESSERT INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION! RESERVE TICKETS ONLINE AT lionhearttheatre.org

Your Hometown Chocolatier The Forum at 5135 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 930, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

(770) 817-8118

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Holiday Events 2023 Holiday Celebration Friday, December 1. 5:30-8:30 p.m.

real snow playground and snowslide!

Thrasher Park, Norcross 93 Park Dr., Norcross norcrossga.net

Santa Paws Pics

Admission: free

Graves Park 1540 Graves Rd., Norcross gwinnettcounty.com, 678-277-0860

There will be choirs singing carols, the Grinch, Santa Claus and merriment as the switch is flipped to light up the town for the holidays. It’s a family-friendly event that features treats like hot cocoa and surprises throughout the evening.

Carriage Rides December 1-22 Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Departs from 45 South Café 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Sleigh the holiday season with a festive journey through Downtown Norcross.

Historic Norcross Christmas Village

Saturday, December 2. 6-8 p.m.

Admission: $5 Pet parents are invited to bring their furry friends for a photo with Santa.

Photos with Santa December 6-22 Wednesdays and Fridays. 6-8 p.m. 45 South Café 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Make the holidays unforgettable by snapping a photo with Santa Claus.

Gingerbread Engineering Thursday, December 7. 4-5 p.m.

Saturday, December 2. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch

Downtown Norcross 5666 Buford Hwy., Norcross norcrossga.net

5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154

Admission: free

Families are invited to go back in time and enjoy old-fashioned merriment that includes costumed characters, live music, food trucks, merchant specials, street vendors, face painters and live animals. St. Nick himself will be there!

Kids aged 6-11 will use engineering skills as they make simple structures out of gingerbread, icing and candies.

Deck the Hall

Friday, December 8. 5-8 p.m.

Saturday, December 2. 2-7 p.m.

Shorty Howell Park Activity Building

Downtown Duluth 3167 Main St., Duluth duluthga.net Admission: free Duluth kicks off the holiday season with holiday lights, photo ops with Santa, live entertainment and crafts for kids. There will even be a

S’mores & Santa Sing-Along

2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth gwinnettcounty.com, 678-277-0900 Admission: $6 per Gwinnett resident; $11 per non-resident The whole family is invited to celebrate the season with songs, games and s’mores with Santa.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

This is a calm, therapeutic event for members of the community of all ages with differing disabilities and their families.

Walk Through Bethlehem

Little Clara’s dream comes alive in Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s 42nd annual production of The Nutcracker. Join Clara as she is swept away into a magical land of adventure.

Beary Merry Day

Friday-Sunday, December 8, 9 and 10

Saturday, December 9. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 7-9 p.m.; Sunday 6-8 p.m.

One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross gwinnettcounty.com, 678-225-5400

Simpsonwood Park 4511 Jones Bridge Cir., Peachtree Corners simpsonwoodumc.org Admission: free Simpsonwood United Methodist Church revives the village of Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth. Families can stroll through the candlelit outdoor nativity scene, stop in shops and encounter shepherds, wise men, angels, Roman guards and live animals.

Admission: $2 per Gwinnett resident; $4 per non-resident Ages 12 and under will be able to adopt a teddy bear, listen to a story and take home a story book to read to their new pal.

Menorah Lighting at the Forum

The Nutcracker December 8-17 Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays, 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth gassouthdistrict.com, 770-813-7500 Tickets: $20 and up peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

The Forum 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com Admission: free The Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett cohosts this Chanukah celebration. Guests are invited to kick off the first night of Chanukah with a Menorah lighting ceremony, family-friendly activities and entertainment.

Cookies & Cocoa with Santa Saturday, December 16. 10-12 p.m. Duluth Festival Center 3142 Hill St., Duluth duluthga.net Admission: free This get together with Santa is just for the little ones. Arts and crafts will be available for kids (while supplies last) and children can bring their letters for Santa to take back to the North Pole.

Lionheart will introduce children, ages 6 to 16, to the poetry of Shel Silverstein and bring his words to life, including The Giving Tree and A Light in the Attic. Students will work on memorization, character building, design, props, costumes and music for a performance at the end of the week that friends and family are invited to attend.

Circuit Playground Express: Holiday Lights Tuesday, December 19. 1-2 p.m. Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free; register online Kids ages 6-11 learn how to use the Circuit Playground Express by programming holiday lights and sounds.

A Christmas Carol Reimagined Tuesday-Friday, December 19-22. 7 p.m. Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth gassouthdistrict.com, 770-813-7500 Tickets: $45 and up The timeless tale of Scrooge is told in this magical live performance by by STORYBOOK Theater that includes soul-stirring music.

Ugly Sweater Bingo Thursday, December 21. 12-2 p.m. Lucky Shoals Park Community Room 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross 678-277-0860 Admission: $5 per person Everyone aged 50 and should bring their holiday spirit and ugly sweaters to join in a game of bingo. ■

Holiday Gift Away Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve Sunday, December 10. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 16. 6-8 p.m. Lucky Shoals Park 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross gwinnettcounty.com, 678-277-0860 Admission: free

Tickets: $49.75 and up

Kids aged 4 to 18 are invited to join in for a night of Christmas music, holiday games and treats. Everyone is asked to please bring a non-perishable donation item in exchange for a gift.

The holiday concert features the best of TSO and more.

Family Snow Day

Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth gassouthdistrict.com, 770-813-7500

Menorah Lighting at the Forum Sunday, December 10. 4-5 p.m.

Sunday, December 17. 1-3 p.m. Pinckneyville Park 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross gwinnettcounty.com, 678-277-0920 Admission: $6 per Gwinnett resident; $12 per non-resident. Register by December 9. Winter break kicks off with a fun all-ages family outing. All ages are invited to put on the holiday PJs for an epic “snow” ball fight, games, crafts, contests and a hot chocolate / popcorn bar. Dress in matching jammies to be extra festive.

Holiday Camp 2023 December 18-22 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022

Eddie Owen Presents Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth eddieowenpresents.com https://eddieowenpresents.com

MetroMusicMakers Winter Showcase

December 2. 11 a.m., 1:30 and 4 p.m. This special event offers talented students a chance to share their musical achievements with family and friends during the festive holiday season.

A Celtic Christmas with Emmet Cahill

December 13. 8 p.m. Acclaimed Irish tenor and Celtic Thunder star Emmet Cahill returns to the U.S. with his Celtic Christmas concert.

Canyonland and the Hot Toddies

December 15. 8 p.m. Canyonland plays the greatest 70s country rock songs of Laurel Canyon. The Hot Toddies are a swinging and crooning Christmas group known for providing holiday merriment.

Joe Gransden Holiday Special

December 21. 8 p.m. Swing through the holidays with four horns, piano, bass, drums and special guest Robin Latimore.

A Banks & Shane Christmas

December 22. 8 p.m. Banks Burgess and Paul Shane formed a folk and Americana-influenced music group in the Atlanta area in 1972 and have entertained audiences ever since.

Gimme Springsteen Christmas Show

December 23. 8 p.m. The Springsteen Christmas sing-along show features Ben Wade and the band. Santa will be available for photos in the lobby. •

Cost: $125 per student DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Faces of Peachtr COVER STORY

eachtree Corners, recognized as a top place to live and work in Georgia, owes its accolades to its residents. Here are 20

individuals known to embody the heart and spirit of the community. They share what they love and how they contribute to the city’s desirability and uniqueness. From a caring veterinarian and proactive city council members to innovative entrepreneurs and gifted students, these are the faces that shape our city. Discover the Faces of Peachtree Corners and see how each person’s unique contribution creates an extraordinary community.

Jim Gaffey In 1980, Jim Gaffey and his young family found their home in Peachtree Corners. Influenced by his service-oriented Irish immigrant parents, Gaffey immediately began shaping the community we love today. Gaffey reminisced, “Growing up, I witnessed my parents, particularly my mother, immerse themselves in community service. Their dedication instilled in me the value of community, and as Peachtree Corners developed, I channeled their spirit to usher in positive change.” One of his early accomplishments was helping to stop the East Jones Bridge Rd expansion. Gaffey’s leadership drove residents to attend a Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners meeting in Lawrenceville, where their overwhelming presence ensured the board’s rejection of the project. By stopping the expansion, Gaffey helped preserve land for town staples like The Forum and Simpson Elementary School. He also led the creation of the Peachtree Corners Swim & Racquet Club in 1985, addressing a growing need for local pools. His efforts didn’t stop there. Gaffey’s influence brought the YMCA to Peachtree Corners, initiated a marathon training program and backed community-building festivals and races. Perhaps one of the most challenging tasks he pursued was campaigning for schools in Peachtree Corners. It was a journey filled with numerous state, county and community meetings. Yet, Gaffey didn’t back down from the challenge. He gained the community’s support, which led to solidifying Peachtree Corners as a nurturing environment for growth and learning. Mayor Mike Mason is a long-time friend of Gaffey’s and one of his biggest fans. “In a time of narrow tribal alliances and polarization, he has surprised me more than once with the breadth of his life experiences,” Mason shared. “His generosity and focus on the common good mark him, in my world, as a true old-school gentleman. He is unfailingly polite, doesn’t speak loudly when a whisper will do, and generously gives credit to others while accomplishing his goals. I am proud to call him my friend. He is a role model for young people everywhere,” he added.

His dedication to Peachtree Corners never waned, even as life took its course. “I helped support a group of church-based women, who had formed a prayer group, as they worked to establish a mission church here,” said Gaffey. “My late wife, Terry, helped form that prayer group.” Gaffey collaborated with the prayer group and helped in successfully bringing a mission church to town in 1994, which now hosts 1,000 families. Mary Our Queen recently finished its beautiful traditional sanctuary on The Corners Pkwy NW. Recently, he shared his expertise with the Chabad of Gwinnett as they looked to build an Enrichment Center in Peachtree Corners. Gaffey married his second wife, Carol, a former Simpson Elementary teacher. The duo continues to champion community causes, most notably with the Assistance League of Atlanta, where Carol served as President during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gaffey reflected on his journey: “It was about taking lessons from those who came before me and pouring that legacy back into the community.” Through decades of unwavering commitment, Jim Gaffey stands as a testament to the power of community spirit, laying the foundation for Peachtree Corners’ bright future.

By Kristen Corley

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

ree Corners Bill Diehl

William “Bill” Diehl is chairman of the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and president of the Peachtree Corners Rotary Club. He’s been instrumental in leading initiatives to strengthen community ties and support local families in need. Under Diehl’s leadership, the Chamber supported meal preparation and delivery for families facing economic hardships. They accomplished this by partnering with local nonprofits such as the Alliance and Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries. Diehl initiated Career Exploration Night for the Rotary Club. The evening grants high school students the opportunity to learn about various professions and scholarships. “What sets this event apart is that we try to find professionals and careers that many students may not have considered or even known existed. It’s neat to see the wheels turning as kids hear about possibilities they never knew were there,” he shared. As a board member of Revved Up Kids, Diehl helps promote the organization’s mission. The program helps prevent child abuse through educational programs for children and parents. Diehl and his wife, Kassie, reside in Norcross with their two children. Diehl, a land use and commercial litigation attorney, is heavily involved in Peachtree Corners and values the area’s diverse range of experiences. For example, historic landmarks, modern technological advancements and the variety of dining options from global cultures. “This area has Gwinnett’s second oldest city and its newest. It has a historic train depot and a worldwide leader in automated transportation systems only two miles apart from each other,” said Diehl. A well-known figure in Peachtree Corners, Diel is a testament to fostering community where you live. Although he recently accepted a new role outside of the city, the roots Diehl and his family have planted here are sure to remain strong.

Dr. April Coleman, Psy.D. Dr. April Coleman, Psy.D. is the contract psychologist for the International Charter Academy of Georgia. Her lifelong commitment to community service stems from her childhood, influenced by her parents’ involvement in charitable acts. “I watched my parents in their roles with the United Way, our church, and their social and civic organizations participating in holiday toy drives,” she said. I watched them feed the homeless and lead several other initiatives. It just made sense to me that as I grew older, I would continue this same drive and passion for community involvement,” she added. This dedication continued through her college years, where she was actively involved in organizations like Key Club International, Circle K International, the National Council for Negro Women (NCNW), and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Dr. Coleman’s passion for community service has only grown since college. She is a board member of the Spectrum Autism Support Center and actively contributes to the Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties. Dr. Coleman serves in various roles at Trinity AME Church and in the Sister2Sister Mentoring program. She also continues her advocacy work at the Georgia State Capitol. “My drive for giving back and helping others comes from a deep sense of compassion and empathy. When I see someone in need or a cause that resonates with me, I feel a strong desire to make a positive impact and improve their well-being,” she reflected. Dr. Coleman contributed to the establishment of a permanent SPECTRUM location in Gwinnett County. The organization supports individuals and families impacted by autism. She advocates for mental health through the Junior League by focusing on challenges faced by women and girls. Her efforts include mentoring programs and initiatives to provide essential products to those in need. Dr. Coleman also aims to alleviate the mental health effects of poverty and resource scarcity. Dr. Coleman confronts challenges like the stigma of seeking mental health support. She sees the rise in anxiety and depression among children post-pandemic. To help, Dr. Coleman advocates improving the number of school resources for mental health needs. She addresses the need through educational seminars, panel discussions, community events and professional development training for teachers. Her efforts extend to sharing resources, contributing to publications and authoring a children’s book on anxiety. Dr. Coleman’s work exemplifies a commitment to enhancing the well-being of the Peachtree Corners community and beyond.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Jaime Cho Jaime Cho has made it her mission to bring a sense of family and personalization to local veterinary care. “I’ve always had a love for animals. I daydreamed about nursing animals back to health and releasing them back into the wild,” she recalled. “During my freshman year of college, I listened to a professor talking to pre-vet students about the UGA veterinary medicine program. The more he talked about it, the more it piqued my interest. I distinctly remember him saying how difficult and competitive it was to pursue veterinary medicine,” Cho shared. “It was at that moment that a light switch went off in my head. It never crossed my mind to pursue a career in veterinary medicine,” she added. Her dedication to animal welfare and the animals she treats in the community has since created a river of care and trust that extends beyond the walls of her practice. Cho’s vision for Peach Paws was clear from the onset. She aimed to build a clinic that didn’t just know its patients by their medical records, but one where personal stories were shared and remembered, and where each visit felt like coming home. Cho remarked, “It wasn’t until 2019 when I realized I wanted to open my own practice. I didn’t know it then, but ultimately, my mother inspired me to open my own practice one day.” Within this inviting space, Cho and her team have worked tirelessly to embody integrity, empathy and compassion, values that clients recognize and appreciate.

“I wanted to bring back that family-feel type of business where you could walk in the door of our hospital and we would know you, your family and pets by name,” Cho said. Beyond her career as a veterinarian, Cho is deeply invested in nurturing future generations. By providing internships and hospital tours for high school students, she aims to light the same spark in young minds she felt years ago. “I told myself if I ever were in a position of influence, I would use that opportunity to pour into the younger generations by encouraging, challenging and teaching them through vet medicine,” she asserted. Cho’s influence stretches across Peachtree Corners, where she’s become a cornerstone of empathy and guidance. She stands with families as they welcome new furry members and holds their hands through heart-wrenching farewells, embodying the poignant beauty of the human-animal bond. “I feel honored that people trust me with the care of their beloved companions. It’s a responsibility I cherish deeply,” she expressed. The families of Peachtree Corners have a place to care for their pets and a place that cares for them, where every face is familiar, and every story is cherished. Through the doors of Peach Paws, Cho continues to live out her dream of healing and unity, paw in hand.

Cleveland identifies innovation as the primary challenge and opportunity for education in Peachtree Corners. He underscores the need for schools to adapt quickly to societal changes while focusing on children’s needs. “Schools need to remain focused on the needs of children. This is becoming increasingly difficult as schools continue to feel the pressure to do more and more for children, including things for which schools were not designed,” Cleveland explained. “Finally, in the midst of new initiatives and innovative curricula, we can never lose sight that education is about the development of children, which demands

the personal investment of loving and caring adults,” he continued. With increasing pressures on schools to take on roles beyond their traditional scope, Cleveland pushes back. He insists that schools must remember that education is fundamentally about the development of children. To be successful, education requires personal investment from dedicated adults. Under Cleveland’s leadership, Wesleyan School aims to embody these principles, playing a vital role in the community’s youth support and development.

Chris Cleveland Chris Cleveland, a native Atlantan and long-time Peachtree Corners resident, witnessed the transformation of Peachtree Corners first-hand. He observed how the growing desire to reduce commuting times has expanded the community. And now, the sleepy town he once knew has become a vibrant hub. Peachtree Corners has become a place where people can work, live and enjoy leisure without extensive travel. As the headmaster of Wesleyan School since 2002, Cleveland has contributed in his own ways to the city’s transformation. He views the school not only as an educational institution but as an integral part of the city’s development. “What I appreciate about the people of Peachtree Corners is the expressed desire for this to be a true community. Authentic community can’t exist at arm’s length. We must take the time to get to know one another and to work, volunteer and serve with each other,” he explained. Despite the demands of his role, Cleveland finds ways to engage with the local community through family activities, dining and shopping. He considers Peachtree Corners a true home where his social networks come alive. Cleveland’s educational philosophy is shaped by his experiences and the leaders he’s encountered throughout his career. He emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in education and warns against the impersonality that can accompany technology. “Our world is becoming increasingly impersonal. While advancements in technology have served us well in terms of efficiency, if we aren’t careful, we lose sight of the need to invest in each other,” he asserted.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Josh Whitlock Josh Whitlock, a technology teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy, has made a profound and fun-filled impact on youth sports. Since moving to Peachtree Corners five years ago, Whitlock brought an innovative and inclusive method to coaching. His special approach? He emphasizes enjoyment and teamwork over competition and winning. He believes that each player, regardless of skill level, should be actively involved and have an equal opportunity to play. Whitlock also challenged his sons to assist every player on their coed team in scoring a goal. The experiment resulted in nine out of twelve players scoring, some for the first time.

Michael Pugh

Michael Pugh is a vital part of Peachtree Corners’ community fabric. Pugh, now a partner and shareholder at Thompson, O’Brien Kappler & Nasuti, P.C., joined the firm in 2010 as an associate attorney. At that time, the firm was known as Thompson, O’Brien, Kemp & Nasuti, P.C. After working in Peachtree Corners for the last 13 years, Pugh understands the tight-knit community atmosphere. This sense of connectedness, he finds, is shared by residents and businesses alike.

“I like to design special trick plays to get some less experienced players a chance to score. We had one called Preston’s Special Delivery that got a kid several touchdowns last flag football season,” he explained. Whitlock is also known for his unique coaching activities. His teams enjoy face painting with their team colors, creating creative team chants and awarding unconventional trophies to highlight individual achievements. “I give secret missions to my players before the game. This may be something like, ‘Tell the other team, nice shot,’ or ‘say thanks to the ref at the end of the game,’ or ‘high five every player on our team,’ or ‘make five strong passes,’” he explained. “These are ways for kids to have a goal that fits their skill level, try hard to meet that goal and celebrate the success of meeting that goal,” he said. Aside from his role as a coach, Whitlock is deeply involved in his community. He leads the worship for children services at Perimeter Church and has a significant presence at Cornerstone Christian Academy. His passion for helping others feel seen continues at Cornerstone, where he can name over 400 students. His impact on the community is a testament to his dedication to making sports a positive and inclusive experience.

“The most appealing thing about Peachtree Corners for me is the overwhelming sense of pride in the community shared amongst residents and businesses. I also love the feeling that Peachtree Corners is a large-small town,” said Pugh. “By that, I mean it is not usual to bump into neighbors, friends, acquaintances, colleagues and clients whether out to dinner in one of Peachtree Corners’s many restaurants or shopping,” he explained. Pugh’s community engagement is marked by his roles in the Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) and the United Peachtree Corners Civic Association (UPCCA). His involvement with the PCBA includes contributing to business growth initiatives and community outreach. In the UPCCA, Pugh enhances residents’ quality of life, including hosting events and debates and awarding scholarships. Pugh’s legal acumen, especially in bankruptcy litigation, extends beyond professional realms into community service. He participates in speaker panels, shares insights in his field, and does pro bono work with Gwinnett County Legal Aid. In addition to his board roles, Pugh contributes to the community through his law firm’s involvement in local fundraisers and events. His expertise in estate planning further assists residents, providing vital legal services in preparing wills and handling probate matters. Michael Pugh’s dedication to Peachtree Corners is evident in his diverse roles and contributions. From providing legal expertise to engaging in community initiatives, he embodies a balance of professional excellence and community commitment.

James Chien Chef James Chien has become a culinary staple in Peachtree Corners. Chien’s path to the kitchen was surprisingly nontraditional. He started as an art student, transitioned to fashion illustration and then into design. His journey brought him to the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City. To support his studies, he drove a taxicab, all the while harboring a passion for culinary arts. “I drove for two and a half years. But I always knew I wanted to be involved in the culinary industry, which to me was another art form,” he said. Bringing a rich blend of flavors and experiences to the local food scene, chef Chien’s journey in the area be-

gan before Peachtree Corners was formally established. His first restaurant venture, Some Like It Hot, opened in 2001. Specializing in New Orleans cuisine with an Asian twist, chef Chien pioneered the “Asian Cajun” concept. Although the restaurant closed in 2006, it left a lasting impression. Next, chef Chien spent seven years as an executive chef for various hotels. However, corporate life left him yearning for the creativity of running his own establishment. He opened his third restaurant, Eating Americana, in Peachtree Corners, and his loyal customers followed. Chef Chien draws inspiration for his dishes from his extensive international travels. He also uses his professional experiences, including working under a chef who trained with the late chef Paul Prudhomme. This diverse background informs his unique approach to “chef crafted foods,” familiar American comfort foods reimagined and elevated. “Unapologetically American. Every meal that you’re familiar with growing up but better! What I do is not necessarily genius. But the idea of the genius behind great food,” he asserted. Beyond the kitchen, chef Chien emphasizes connecting with his patrons. Contrary to the stereotype of the aloof chef, he believes in the power of personal touch. He walks the dining room, meets customers, expresses gratitude and remains accessible. This philosophy of community and connection has made chef Chien a beloved figure in Peachtree Corners.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Bobby Cobb

Louis Svehla

Scott Hilton

As City Communications Director, Louis Svehla has dedicated himself to the well-being of the Peachtree Corners community, touching on aspects from local business support to safety initiatives. In his role, Svehla is responsible for overseeing various communication channels — from websites and social media to newsletters and public communications. He ensures that information is accessible, honest and easy to comprehend. Svehla’s enthusiasm shines when discussing the Choose Peachtree Corners Shop Local app he helped to implement. The app allows residents to earn points, which can be redeemed later, for shopping at local businesses. This initiative encourages a symbiotic relationship between local businesses and residents, creating a supportive ecosystem within the community. “There is no cost to the public or the business, and

Upon relocating from Phenix City, Alabama, Bobby Cobb found purpose in the community spirit of Peachtree Corners. This was a pivotal time in Cobb’s life, as he was relocating during the pandemic. He soon felt a true sense of belonging. That support, along with the city’s inclusive leadership, spurred him to establish Cobb Global Outreach (CGO). An organization that focuses on decreasing the wage gap through scholarships and financial literacy for youth. “Our mission is to decrease the wage gap by providing scholarships and education about financial literacy to youth. We believe that equipping students with knowledge about finance can help narrow the wealth gap and empower future generations,” said Cobb. CGO’s initiatives, like the “Start to Success Backpack Campaign” at Norcross High School, have shown measurable success. In fact, he provides increasing support to families each year. Partnering with local organizations, CGO also conducts “The Future Is Yours,” a program offering holistic development tips to students. In addition to CGO, Cobb supports Project Kids and actively participates in the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Peachtree Corners Business Association, contributing to various local causes. “By working together, we can create a supportive, nurturing environment that empowers every student in Peachtree Corners to reach their full potential,” Cobb shared. “Yes, I’m a dreamer. But I’m also a doer. And I’m committed to doing everything I can to make this dream a reality for the students of Peachtree Corners,” he added. His vision for the students of Peachtree Corners is comprehensive and includes academic success, secure living and well-being. Cobb emphasizes collaboration across sectors as the key to realizing this ambitious goal.

both parties benefit,” Svehla shared. “It emphasizes supporting local small businesses, which leads to the businesses supporting the residents.” Among the lesser known but highly impactful initiatives Svehla has assisted in is the Camera Registration program called Connect Peachtree Corners. This program allows residents to register their home cameras into a database accessible by law enforcement. While it doesn’t grant real-time access, the registered information aids in quick evidence collection, contributing to the overall safety of the area. Looking forward, Svehla is excited about the expansion of the Town Green, which includes a custom-designed tot lot playground focused on children six and under, as well as a 9,000 sq. ft. off-leash dog park. Svehla and his team are also excited about providing family-oriented events at no cost, such as live music shows, the Curiosity Lab Criterium cycling race and the Atlanta Sci-Fi Film Festival. Svehla is deeply invested in the community. Through his work, he aims to enhance the quality of life in this diverse and welcoming city, one project at a time. Whether promoting local businesses, ensuring public safety or adding to the community’s recreational outlets, Svehla is pivotal in making Peachtree Corners a great place to live.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Scott Hilton and his family moved to Peachtree Corners in December 2011. As a Georgia State Representative, he has played a significant role in the community’s development. During his term in the Georgia General Assembly, Hilton championed school choice and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities. His legislative efforts, particularly the passage of House Bill 787, led to the establishment of the Paul Duke STEM School. The bill also created the International Charter Academy in Peachtree Corners, a new Japanese-English dual-language immersion school. These institutions have broadened educational options in the community. “As the father of three children, I’ve witnessed firsthand how every child learns differently. Students and families should be given an educational option that best fits their needs,” he stated. Hilton advocates for reducing government regulations and taxes to spur small business growth. “The reality is that small businesses are the economic engine of Georgia, employing more than 70% of all workers in our state,” he asserted. “My wife, Meredith, is an amazing small business owner and local attorney. She provides estate planning services for many in our community. I see daily the government red tape, taxes and hurdles her business faces.” Currently, his focus includes collaborating with the Georgia Department of Economic Development to attract quality companies and high-paying jobs. He believes revitalizing Technology Park in Peachtree Corners is a significant first step. Hilton holds leadership roles at the Robert D. Fowler YMCA and the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. “Long before I considered a run for the State House, I worked as a community volunteer serving on our HOA Board, United Peachtree Corners Civic Association (UPCCA), and the Fowler YMCA,” Hilton explained. “These roles taught me so much about what’s important to our community and what makes it tick. I absolutely love Peachtree Corners, and my goal is to keep our city one of the best places in Georgia to live, work and raise a family,” he concluded.

peachtreecornerslife

Bob Ballagh In 1991, Bob Ballagh, posted to Fort McPherson by the Army, and his wife Ella began their search for a new home in the Atlanta area. After exploring different neighborhoods, the charm and potential of Peachtree Corners felt like home. Friends from Ballagh’s army days pointed him toward a new subdivision named Riverfield and thus began the journey of owning a home after 27 years of Army accommodation. Bob shared, “We were drawn to Peachtree Corners because of the excellent schools and the overall community ambiance.” With roots starting to deepen, Ballagh became an active community member. He said, “Being among the initial residents of Riverfield, I naturally involved myself in the HOA and the emerging Fields Club, serving on the inaugural boards of both.” Speaking on his military experiences, Ballagh shared, “Military communities thrive on volunteer-

Veterans Monument Association, Ballagh recalled how the community showed up to support the occasion. “We had significant contributions by Charlie Roberts, Doug Heckman, Gina Bryant, Lisa and Bob Cheeley, the city of Peachtree Corners, Barbara & Brad Howard (Suzanna’s Kitchen), and Fisher Sculpture, and Kent Feuerbach who built the monument,” he explained. “We had nearly 1,000 donors who gave donations ranging from $100 for a brick to $75,000,” he went on the say. On the horizon, Ballagh is optimistic about the association’s evolution from focusing solely on the monument to becoming a broader service organization for Veterans. Offering advice to fellow Peachtree Corners residents, Ballagh stated, “There is an abundance of opportunities for you to continue to make the city a great place to live — volunteer for scouting programs, at the YMCA, for food lockers, or at schools. Peachtree Corners is only as good as the people who live here. We have a great legacy — let’s keep it that way.”

ism. From coordinating large youth sports programs to assisting on-base services, my time in the military emphasized the essence of community service. It’s this spirit that translates seamlessly to civilian life.” After his Army retirement in 1993, life took Ballagh on a brief detour to Croatia for four years. On returning in 1998, his commitment to Peachtree Corners resumed, securing a role at CheckFree and re-engaging with the community organizations. Discussing his efforts for the Peachtree Corners

William Susskind and Rohan Kumar

Rohan Kumar and William Susskind are two award-winning Paul Duke STEM High School students. Together, they developed DoorBully, a device designed to counteract the threat of school shootings. Kumar, a life-long resident of Peachtree Corners, attributes the development of DoorBully to the community-oriented atmosphere of the suburb. He also credits the collaborative culture at Paul Duke. The project received positive feedback following its presentation at the National Invention Convention. “The school’s culture of collaboration, empathy, innovation and diversity has made it almost second nature to think about creating products that benefit our community. It’s at Paul Duke that I’ve acquired invaluable skills, both technical and social, which have been essential in developing DoorBully,” Kumar said. Susskind, also a lifelong resident, was motivated to join Kumar in creating DoorBully after becoming aware of the prevalence of school shootings in the United States.

The engineering and mechatronics studies at Paul Duke were pivotal in the invention process. “I was fortunate to immerse myself in engineering and mechatronics, which honed my technical skills to bring our concepts to fruition. The commitment of our teachers allowed us to engage in numerous competitions and present our ideas to influential figures, furthering our project’s reach and impact,” said Susskind. The invention has received local media attention and led to establishing a student club focused on innovation. The implementation of DoorBully in Peachtree Corners schools indicates the broader potential for student-led safety initiatives. “As for the future of our invention, we’re not only eyeing local implementation but also global expansion. DoorBully is in place at Fulton Science Academy, and discussions are underway with Bryan County. This is just the beginning of its journey to enhance community safety everywhere,” said Susskind. Kumar and Susskind’s efforts have been recognized

by the community, including the Norcross Police Department and local educators. The students advise peers interested in innovation to embrace failure as part of the learning process and to engage in the community. “My advice to other young innovators in Peachtree Corners is not to fear failure. Embrace it because failure is an extraordinary teacher,” shared Kumar. “Each setback is an opportunity to learn and refine your ideas, and each success will only fuel your passion further. So, keep inventing, keep iterating and stay committed to creating solutions that positively impact our community,” he added.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Bertrand Lapoire Bertrand Lapoire, originally from France, found a warm welcome in the community of Peachtree Corners. Attracted to the beautiful landscapes and great schools in 2013, his family knew they had found their home. A true Frenchman, Lapoire owns Neodistributing, LLC in Norcross. The company is an exclusive distributor of Enomatic Wine Serving Systems for 18 states in the eastern and southeastern U.S. The company serves customers like the Ritz Carlton, Kroger, and REGAL Cinemas. Lapoire has contributed to the growth of the French American Chamber of Commerce (FACC) in Peachtree Corners since 2012. Currently Vice Chairman, he moved the FACC office from the French Consulate to Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners. This decision was driven by the support and opportunities offered by the city and Curiosity Lab. “Thanks to key people I met at the city and at Curiosity Lab who showed immense support and interest in having the FACC join the ecosystem, coupled with the ability to grow our operation and host international interns in the facility, our decision was easy to make,” he said. “We immediately benefited from the constant

Suzanna Martinez

Suzanna Martinez’s journey from Denver, Colorado, to Peachtree Corners, Georgia, in June 2020 is a story of purpose and passion. The search for a new home brought Martinez and her family to a place where the community’s energy was palpable. With a personal history in the Professional Employer Organization (PEO) industry, Martinez identified an opportunity to enhance corporate operations across sectors. “I assist my clients in achieving purchasing power for health insurance, workers’ compensation and other HR solutions. A PEO enables company leaders to concentrate on their bottom line. Consolidating the backend of HR operations saves time and money and provides a unified system for enhanced efficiency,” Martinez shared. Her enterprise has become integral to the local business landscape, enabling her to invest deeply in the community through the Peachtree Corners Business Association and scholarship initiatives.

During Lapoire’s tenure as the Chairman of the Peachtree Corners Downtown Development Authority, he made tremendous strides to revitalize Technology Park. He focused on improving amenities and daily life for employees and residents, bringing new energy and focus to the board. “I spent a few months as the Chair of the DDA be-

activity at Curiosity Lab and the support of the city as a partner and member of the Chamber. This even led to a delegation trip to visit different incubators and mobility research hubs in France early this year,” he added. The move has proven beneficial, enhancing the Chamber’s operations and fostering international connections.

“As a business owner, I invest time in serving the local Peachtree Corners Business Association and am involved in our community outreach for nonprofit grants and college scholarships,” explained Martinez. Martinez’s roles, including her position on the Peachtree Corners Business Association Board and her ambassadorship for the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, create movements that bolster community and economic development. She views her work with nonprofits and educational institutions as vital for nurturing the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs in Peachtree Corners and the broader Hispanic community. Her influence extends to arts and culture, mainly through her involvement with the Georgia Latino Film Festival. Martinez firmly believes in the arts’ power to create inclusivity and serve as launching pads for local talent. Martinez has played a pivotal role in philanthropic efforts that resonate throughout Peachtree Corners. Through PCBA’s charity events, she has helped raise significant funds for various organizations and created avenues for local businesses to gain visibility and support. Martinez envisions first expanding her company to provide jobs and further support to the community. Additionally, her sights are set on completing “La Luchador,” a memoir reflecting her journey from hardship to success, which she hopes to see adapted into a film, celebrating the rich tapestry of Latino culture and the spirit of Peachtree Corners. As Peachtree Corners grows, Martinez stands at the forefront, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurial innovation and cultural inclusion. With a heart set on fostering a community where business and culture converge, her upcoming initiatives promise to enrich Peachtree Corners even further.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

fore joining the Economic Development team for the city. I’m still proud of being able to insufflate a new energy on the board for a few months during which we have started to focus on the amenities and activations that would help improve Technology Park and the everyday life of the employees and citizens,” he explained. Lapoire is an enthusiastic traveler, looking forward to visiting family in France and exploring Italy and Germany next summer. He also has a long-term goal of traveling to Japan. Lapoire’s journey from France to Peachtree Corners exemplifies a successful integration into American life while maintaining strong ties to his roots. His professional life and community involvement highlight his commitment to fostering relationships and development. He is a truly valuable member of the Peachtree Corners community.

Ora Douglass Freshly elected to the Peachtree Corners City Council, Ora Douglass brings a rich history of service and community engagement to Peachtree Corners. Douglass and her husband moved from Norcross to Peachtree Corners 25 years ago. Drawn by the community-focused environment and amenities like the Robert D. Fowler YMCA, Peachtree Corners was a natural fit. Douglass’ first job out of nursing school was as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. She credits the Army, and her stint at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu for her values of discipline, respect and cultural sensitivity. “As an officer, it was my responsibility to demonstrate leadership at all times. There were many rules to be followed; the first was to represent the U.S. Army in a respectable manner at all times,” said Douglass. “As a nurse, I had to lean on the ethical principles of justice, beneficence, nonmaleficence, accountability, fidelity, autonomy and veracity. These principles shaped who I am as an individual. I believe being an Army Officer and a registered nurse enhanced what was already there,” she explained. After serving two decades in hospital administration, Douglass returned to federal service. She led a significant expansion of the home-based primary and palliative care program at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. Douglass also successfully secured a $10 million grant to extend services to rural areas, providing comprehensive care to veterans. As the chartering president of the Peachtree Corners chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Douglass has led community-focused initiatives. “The fundraising component of our chapter is a 501c3., Georgia Pearls of Service Foundation (GPOS). GPOS raises funds each year to support community service programs and organizations such as Backpack Buddies and the YMCA,” Douglass continued. “I firmly believe that to whom much is given,

peachtreecornerslife

Taylor Hammett

Taylor Hammett, who serves as the Lead Pastor at North End Collective, founded Launch Local Network, which describes itself as incubating good works by equipping others to launch hyperlocal, small-scale, redemptive initiatives in their city. Hammett and his team envision a community where individuals, regardless of their faith or nonfaith, can unite to make a meaningful impact right where they live. Each role gives Hammett a unique perspective as he identifies opportunities for “good work” in the vulnerable pockets of Peachtree Corners. While North End Collective has always worked in these spaces, Launch Local Network extends this vision to the broader community, inviting everyone to contribute to the common good. Hammett is excited about several projects, but the current concession stand and mobile coffee cart initiatives are particularly impactful. “For the past six months, we’ve been running a concession stand and a mobile coffee cart to engage with the social desires of our city, snacks and coffee, and to help meet the social needs of our city, which are food, clothing and shelter,” Hammett shared. “It’s amazing the depth of conversation that can happen between two people or a small group in the time it takes to make someone’s caramel oat milk latte!” he said excitedly.

“After just over six months of operations, our board of directors has already set aside our first $10,000 disbursement to give to organizations addressing food insecurity, housing, education and addiction recovery.” Though the organization is relatively new, Hammett looks forward to leveraging his experience in business and non-profit work to help others in the community bring their ideas to life for a positive impact. Launch Local Network welcomes volunteer involvement, particularly in running concessions at Pinckneyville Park. The organization will also host events next year aimed at helping community members explore and act on their ideas for “good works.” Interested parties can contribute financially through the Launch Local Network website at www. launchlocal.network/give, ensuring that donations go toward amplifying the excellent work already happening rather than just sustaining the organization. To stay in the loop, community members are encouraged to follow Launch Local Network on social media or reach out directly to Hammett via email at taylor@launchlocal.network.

Zoey Schlueter

much is required. Even though I was orphaned at 18 months, I’ve been given very much, as evidenced by being Councilwoman Elect for post 5. I plan to coordinate with the city and other service organizations to offer community events for Peachtree Corners,” she confidently asserted. She envisions festivals celebrating diverse cultures, health fairs, job fairs and more, reflecting her commitment to inclusivity and community welfare. Douglass’ efforts in securing resources for veterans, addressing childhood hunger and planning community events showcase her commitment to making Peachtree Corners a better place for all its residents.

Zoey Schlueter, involved with the National Charity League since the seventh grade, has woven her commitment to philanthropy into the very fabric of her life. Her early initiation into the world of service with the National Charity League ignited a passion for volunteering, highlighting charity work’s profound impact on local communities. As co-president of Greater Atlanta Christian School’s Beta Club chapter, Schlueter has led numerous initiatives, but she finds the organization of the Special Olympics particularly rewarding. “Special Olympic events are extremely impactful because Beta Club members can work directly with the Olympians throughout the day. I love organizing this event because it is so much fun for both the Beta Club members and the Olympians, and it creates a deeper understanding of the disability community for the Beta Club members involved,” she shared. Holding the prestigious role of Head Prefect, Schlueter’s leadership extends into enhancing student culture and addressing community issues. “I work with Maddie Burrough, Greater Atlanta Christian’s Service Prefect, to highlight service opportunities that go beyond Greater Atlanta Christian School and connect with our broader Norcross community,” Schlueter continued. “Specifically, one thing that the prefects work closely with is Can-A-Thon, a collection of cans for the Salvation Army, helping fight against food insecurity. It is exciting to see the impact that we can make not only at GAC but in the Atlanta area, too!” she beamed. Schlueter’s insights into the community spirit of Peachtree Corners were sharpened through her summer internship at Peachtree Corners Magazine. “Being able to meet the people I was writing about face-to-face and hear their stories and experiences gave me perspective on the importance of the community around me,” she reflected. “Peachtree Corners has so many individuals who positively influence the world around us daily and being able to see that over the past summer was incredible, and I am so grateful for that experience,”

she continued. Schlueter’s journey is a testament to the younger generation’s potential to lead with heart and vision, creating ripples of change that can grow into waves of community transformation. As she prepares to take the following steps in her career, one thing is clear: she wants writing to serve as a catalyst for good, continuing her unwavering commitment to the service she nurtured in Peachtree Corners.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Papa Mensah

Born and raised in Peachtree Corners, Papa Mensah is currently a senior at Wesleyan School. While in school, he was integral in fostering the development of a Student-Led Worship program. “My faith in Jesus influences every aspect of my life, especially my perspective on community service. Some verses that I cherish are Galatians 6:2 and 1 Peter 4:8-10,” said Mensah. “The 1 Peter verse emphasizes deep love and using our gifts to serve others. It mirrors my approach to organizing worship services and how I view community service,” he explained. “It’s not just about doing good deeds; it’s about genuinely caring for one another. This idea of being faithful stewards of God’s grace has made me more aware of the diverse needs in our community,” he continued. He contributes heavily to the Peachtree Corners community and beyond. GIVE Charity, co-founded with his brother Nana, reflects Mensah’s dedication to educational equity and addressing global issues. The Mensah brothers spent three years living with family members in Ghana as children. This experience, along with their mother’s teaching services in Ghana, inspired the charity. The initiative refurbishes and repurposes technology for schools in Subi, Ghana. It addresses the

educational resource gap, inspired by his mother’s educational bond in Ghana and his own in Peachtree Corners. “I am very aware of the privilege I have in attending a school like Wesleyan, but I also recognize my educational foundation, which was built in Ghana. Not everyone has this same experience,” he said. “My older cousin Mimi who lives in Ghana, my older brother Nana and I had a vision to reach out to local technology companies in the metro Atlanta area. We look for companies with surplus or slightly outdated devices that could be repurposed for classroom use in Subi,” he remarked. He credits his family, particularly his parents and brother Nana, for their support and exemplifying excellence. Their sacrifices have been a motivating force behind his commitment to GIVE Charity and his broader goals. Mensah plans to integrate technology with community service further. He aims to develop machine learning software for disease detection, targeting underserved communities. “We hope to continue growing GIVE to have a greater impact in the number of schools in Subi reached, the number of devices repurposed, and the number of people inspired to take action in their communities,” he asserted.

Alex Wright Councilman Alex Wright’s connection to Peachtree Corners began in 2003. A Georgia native, he returned to the state in 2001 after serving in the military. He was drawn to Peachtree Corners by job proximity but quickly felt at home. “Peachtree Corners is like a small town, with a tight-knit community feel, but it’s free from the usual limitations of small-town life,” he said. Wright’s motivation to enter local politics stemmed from a desire to protect and guide the city’s future. “My goal when I was running for Council in 2012 was to prevent Peachtree Corners from becoming another city where people say, ‘Yeah, that area used to be nice.’ No, let’s stay here and fight to keep it nice,” Wright added. “In fact, let’s make it better! That really was what motivated me to get involved. Be part of the solution, not the problem,” he went on to say. When considering recent projects in the city with impact, the Veterans Monument and the redesigned playground at the Town Center stand out. These projects aren’t just amenities;

they’re symbols of what local government in touch with its citizens can achieve. “The origin story of the idea behind the playground also shows the advantages of local government. A resident with a great idea helped jump-start a project that has been an absolutely huge success story.” Drawing from his diverse background in the military and finance, Wright approaches his role on the Council with a focus on problem-solving. “Though the military and the finance worlds are quite different in most ways, there are some similarities that have influenced how I approach being a member of the Council,” said Wright. “Both heavily emphasize problem-solving skills. More specifically, they both emphasize having a solution or end result in mind. Working backward from there to determine a route to achieve the desired result,” he asserted. Wright believes that most residents evaluate their government based on safety, economic well-being and minimal unnecessary intervention. These principles guide his decision-making, especially in matters like land development, where he weighs the community’s safety and long-term economic benefits. Wright’s journey reflects a life dedicated to service, problem-solving, and a steadfast commitment to the community he calls home. ■

Through tragedy and triumph film brings us together. As a magazine publisher, we’re honored to sponsor a celebration of such impactful storytelling.

Alex Wright with wife Loreen

Over the years Peachtree Corners Magazine has sponsored events or festivals including JapanFest, Light up the Corners, the Sci-Fi Film Festival, Wesleyan Artist Market, Lionheart Theatre, Peachtree Corners Festival and more.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Chuck Waters

My greatest source of satisfaction is serving others, both in real estate and in my community.

Medicare First Timers Period & OpenJANEnrollment 1–MAR 31 *

u Medicare: Medigap,

u u Whether you are looking to make our community your new home, moving locally or across the world, I am proud to offer the highest level of service. As a real estate expert who understands market trends, I am passionate about leveraging my acumen and the unrivaled marketing and resources of Sotheby’s International Realty® to achieve the best value for your investment.

World-Class Marketing | World-Class Service.

Alan Kaplan c. 404.909.6000 o. 770.442.7300 alankaplan@atlantafinehomes.com atlantafinehomes.com | sir.com

u u

Advantage and Part-D Plans Cancer, Heart Attack, and Stroke Home Care and Recovery Care Final Expense Life Insurance Dental and Vision

What’s the Right Plan for You?

No Fee or Obligation

Avoid costly Medicare mistakes Bob can take the confusion out of Aging into Medicare and the Annual Open Enrollment process. Contact Bob Today!

Bob Smith

Health and Life Insurance Advisor Since 2009

404.593.9663 Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

www.BobCaresForYou.com

*Note: If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan you may be able to change your plan.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

WHOLISTIC HEALTH | A Comprehensive and Individualized Approach to Healthcare

Personalized Medicine Finding plained symptoms. It is the same with sex hormones. EPM will take a detailed look at a patient’s testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone levels. Thyroid and sex hormones are a just a small part of the comprehensive lab panel each new patient has drawn before their first visit. EPM can often find, diagnose

Lee Strickland DC Chiropractor

and help manage treatment for unexplained weight gain, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, menopausal symptoms, low testosterone for men, brain fog and chronic fatigue — just to name a few. And it is always done with a personalized touch.

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by Jessica Ly

lite Personalized Medicine’s typical patient is usually someone who has symptoms that their primary physician or physician specialist can’t seem to resolve. Labs and other tests have come back “fine”, yet they feel something still isn’t quite right. There are still unexplained symptoms.

A recent patient review reads: “The doctor I spoke with was very knowledgeable and so down to earth. She never made me feel bad about myself, and I didn’t feel like just a number.”

Patients often find Elite Personalized Medicine when they do not get answers or justification for their symptoms. This is what makes Elite Personalized Medicine different. EPM performs much more extensive testing to find the root cause of concern.

Elite personalized medicine approach The time and attention given to each patient is a standard but crucial part of EPM’s approach — as equally important as the detailed bloodwork required prior to your first visit. Initial bloodwork includes sex hormones, a full thyroid panel, blood sugar response, inflammatory markers, vitamin deficiencies and all of the standard cardiometabolic markers.

Personalized is part of the name for a reason — there are no one-size-fits all treatments. Every treatment plan is created for that specific individual. For example, if a patient feels there may be thyroid issues, the center will run tests for the entire thyroid — how it is working and if it is a potential cause for unex-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Once bloodwork is completed, the patient will be scheduled for a 60-minute, one-on-one visit with a medical provider. EPM will also peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Chuck Waters

SPONSORED FEATURE

vative Smiles ing in the field, Dr. Talley’s initial experience was working as a dentist during his stint in the Navy.

From a military career to a private practice “I’m from Arkansas, so I went to a small Methodist school in Arkansas called Hendrix College,” said Dr. Talley. After that, he attended Meharry Medical College in Nashville. Then came the Navy. “I was a Navy dentist and did my residency in the Navy in Virginia Beach. And then I was in Japan for two years on a ship,” he said. “Working on Marines and Navy Seals and that whole group is very different from here at a private practice.” One of the biggest advantages of being a military doctor is that no procedure was “out-ofnetwork” or unapproved by an insurance company. “There are no restrictions on what you need to do for somebody because money and insurance are not a question. So, whatever they have, you can work on it. You get a lot of good experience. And you get to work with a lot of good technology,” said Dr. Talley. maintenance pays off in fewer dollars and less pain. “If we can keep you out of my chair, that’s the best. Unfortunately, most people only come in when there’s a problem, and once it’s hurting, it’s usually a little bit more costly, and dentistry doesn’t get cheaper if you ignore the problem,” he commented. While much of his knowledge comes from constant training and keeping up with what’s happen-

“I got to put my hands on a couple of things that I probably wouldn’t have been able to do if I went to a private practice at the time, and then just couldn’t afford that piece of equipment,” he added. His last assignment in the Navy was at Kings Bay Naval Base in St. Marys, GA. His best friend in dental school was from Atlanta and convinced him to try the area. As luck would have it, a former employee during her working interview realized he’d be good son-in-law material and introduced him to her daughter. “And three kids later, here we are,” he said, adding that his kids often help around the office and are active in sports and other extra-curricular activities in local schools.

Oral health relates to overall health Through the years, Dr. Talley has honed his skills, driving the point home that all health leads back to the mouth. “Everything that’s happened in your mouth is connected to the other parts of your body,” he said. “So, if you have high blood pressure or diabetes and you have infections in your mouth, they work hand in hand.” For example, someone with clogged arteries probably suffers from a lot of plaque build-up on their teeth. “That same calcium or tartar can go through your blood vessels, and it can harden your blood vessels. That’s why it’s related to high blood pressure and heart disease. And when it comes to infection, it doesn’t just stay in your mouth— everything’s connected from your head to your toes,” he explained. So, if patients grumble about filling out a form for their entire medical history, to get their teeth cleaned, there’s a good reason for it. “We have advanced cancer screening that we can do where we often catch things early. And, when it comes to more prevention, we talk about brush techniques, floss techniques and things like a Waterpik for people who don’t like to floss,” said Dr. Talley.

Innovative Smiles by the numbers

DENTIST

HYGIENISTS

3,500

PATIENTS SERVED

17 plus YEARS AT THE SAME LOCATION

125 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE SCAN THE QR CODE FOR YOUR PERSONALIZED MEDICINE

Meeting people where they are is a cornerstone of Innovative Smiles’ approach to dentistry. ■

Innovative Smiles at the Forum 5185 Peachtree Parkway Building 1200, Suite 201 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-763-7470 gwinnettdentist.com DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Host the Perfect Holiday LIFESTYLE

esides being one of the greatest painters in the history of art, conceiver of futuristic inventions and scientific discoveries, did you know Leonardo Da Vinci was also a party-planning genius? He was commissioned to execute elaborate celebrations in courts across Europe. Most of us fret over the holiday gatherings that are bound to fill our calendars but hosting one of our own comes with added levels of stress and anxiety. Assuming you’re willing to brave pushing complicated family dynamics aside long enough

By Patrizia Winsper

to celebrate the holidays together, hosting a gathering is still an overwhelmingly daunting task. Allow me to provide you with some words of encouragement and hugely helpful pointers that will embolden you to throw a holiday shindig equal in gusto and moxie to one of Da Vinci’s legendary events – maybe minus the robots he created to amuse his wealthy patrons. Plan to entertain and enchant your family and friends with a feast for the senses. We may not be creating mechanical lions that offer lilies to kings like Da Vinci did, but your guests will admire and appreciate the thoughtful touches you put into hosting the perfect holiday party. No need to feel panic-stricken. Read on!

Leading up to the holidays, tackle one room at a time and perform a deep clean. Freshen walls with water and white cleaning vinegar. Try a product like White House All-Natural Cleaning Vinegar in lavender scent. Mix one part vinegar with one part water, sponge your walls with the solution from top to bottom. This mixture is a great multipurpose cleaner for a variety of household uses, including sparkling windows. Wash your curtains or have them dry-cleaned. Have your rugs professionally washed. Alpha Omega Carpet Cleaning is a great local choice; call them at 678-772-6661. Dust the furniture, the blinds and all the nooks and crannies, decluttering as you go so your holiday decorations can take center stage.

Mom is right — clean the house!

Deck the halls

Delight your guests with the sights and fragrances of a tidy, clean house but don’t try to take on the whole home at once. That would make anyone feel overwhelmed.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Once the home is clean and tidy, you’ll be ready to spring your holiday decorations from storage. Consider your favorite holiday trimmings as built-in party décor. Enlist some help carrying the peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

boxes and containers to a central location in your home. Then, blast your favorite carols as you carefully unbox and set them out. Some people begin this task right after Halloween, some reserve it for Thanksgiving Day and others don’t feel right about starting before December. I would encourage you to do this earlier rather than later, especially if you plan to host a holiday party. However, make your move whenever you hear your inner Mariah Carey voice calling to you in her whistle register, “It’s tiiime!” Outside, make sure the landscaping is neat. Install some winter flowerbeds or fill your flowerpots with holiday greenery and ornaments to greet your guests and neighbors with holiday cheer the minute they see your home. Put up holiday lights and any outdoor decorations you love. Nothing conveys Christmas magic like twinkling lights. Make sure yours are in working order before your event. Warm white lights (yellow or peachtreecornerslife

Party

Opposite and this page, Holiday chic decor at the Winsper home. Left bottom two photos this page Christmas decor at My Secret Garden.

Live stimuli for the eyes and nose

golden) evoke a cozy, traditional Christmas look that complements red and gold decorations. Cool white bulbs, with their blueish tinge, lend themselves to a more modern, frosty esthetic and silver decorations.

Seasonal smells Transport your guests to memories of happy holiday celebrations gone by and brighten their mood with Auburn Candle Company’s Fall/Winter collection at the Forum. Fill the house with the woodsy scent

of fresh cut pine trees, whether you have a fake tree or a real one you’d like to enhance. Try their Balsam Fir, Pine Needle or Woodland Spruce soy candles. Then walk across the bridge to Buff City Soap at Town Center where you’ll find plenty of ways to treat guests to more seasonal aromas. Bonus: The fresh air and exercise will be invigorating and ease some stress. Stock guest bathrooms with their Holly-Day scent in foaming hand soap, bar soap, body butter and body oil. Wash the holiday linens with the same scented laundry soap or use wax melts to infuse your whole space with a holiday party vibe. Holly-Day will envelop guests with a warm welcome — it’s the scent of homemade cookies with notes of honey, lemon and vanilla. Maybe you’d prefer the Peppermint Bark scent of candy canes, white chocolate and hot cocoa, available in all the products listed above.

Awaken the holiday spirit within your visitors when they lay eyes on your décor. Sonya Harrison of My Secret Garden suggests we take a moment to think of the “story” we want to tell our guests and then carry it throughout our home for a cohesive look. A fan of the outdoorsy smell of crisp greenery, Harrison recommends we use as much of it as possible to fill our homes with that “Christmas smell.” It starts at the front door where she proposes hanging a classic wreath dripping with ornaments and berries to match our holiday colors and theme. Don’t forget an oversized bow. “I like to layer solid and patterned ribbons to make hand tied bows,” Harrison said. Use them to adorn the garland on handrails as well as to provide accents at the front door. “Incorporate fresh magnolia, cedar and forced blubs like paperwhites and amaryllis,” Harrison added. My Secret Garden sells an array of fragrant plants for a seasonal spruce-up of your home. They make custom arrangements and wreaths upon

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

request. Find fresh cut Frasier firs, wreaths, garland and a collection of swoon-worthy holiday treasures like mouth-blown glass and hand painted ornaments. In the bathroom, Harrison recommends fresh orchids in red or white containers with a small bow in your color scheme. Candles and greenery at the base add interest. Guest bedrooms scream Christmas with the addition of a small wreath hung with ribbon on the dresser mirror and poinsettias in coordinating containers and bows on the nightstands. “We do help decorate and set up Christmas decorations. That is planned in advance of the holiday season,” Harrison shared. Book them for next year to enlist professional help with live décor and more from My Secret Garden. Visit mysecretgarden.com.

pink to subtle pastels, pick your favorite playful shade and have fun with it. A woodland whimsy theme brings the outdoors in with a focus on forest creatures and nature that adds a sense of warmth to your home. “Think faux fur tree skirts, pinecones, rustic wooden ornaments and garlands made of twigs and berries,” Mitchell blogged. Finally, the writer suggests a white Christmas tree which can be styled in any theme to serve as a striking backdrop for ornaments in metallic shades, softer colors or bold jewel tones. Let your imagination run wild — but stick to a budget. Things can easily get out of hand if you decide to revamp all your Christmas décor. Still popular is the granny chic style characterized by a modern spin on classic, ornate design elements like tassels and trims, or your grandmother’s fine china, wallpapers and patterns. Ransack mom’s attic and mix heirloom with more modern pieces in a not-too-cluttered fashion. Don’t forget to bake grandmother’s Christmas cookies! Grandpa chic is gaining in popularity too. It’s the same idea, born out

of nostalgia for homes with more character than modern, white boxes. Vintage and antique treasures are assembled in a contemporary way. Dark colors like forest green and tobacco brown typify grandpa chic, along with leather accessories, wood accents and Christmasy, but masculine, plaid textiles.

Can’t commit? “I think people are gravitating towards the classic, traditional Christmas themes. Santa and Frosty ornaments seem to be trending. To shake it up, add whimsy with fun fabric ribbon. I love peppermint stripe ribbon or fun picks for your tree. They add a little flair to the classic color palette,” Harrison said. A pop of lime green makes the reds appear brighter, according to Harrison. She feels a more modern take on Christmas décor includes bright blue, blush pink or a natural, monochromatic palette against the dark green branches of a Christmas tree. The possibilities are endless! Can’t decide on one theme? Setting up vignettes throughout your home on bars, buffets, mantles and tables allows you to embrace more than one style. My mantlescape and living room tree are elegant in gold, silver and white, but the colorfully decorated tree bejeweled

What’s your story? Holiday themes abound. Selecting one can be unnerving, but there’s a look to suit every personality and style. Generally, if your home is modern, go with sleek, contemporary, minimalist holiday décor. If your home is traditional, a more classic Christmas style works best. Or use what you already have, add some new favorites and embrace an eclectic Christmas! On the oldworldchristmas.com website, Rachael Mitchell lists some 2023 Christmas decorating trends. Convey elegance and tranquility with soft neutrals. Retro and vintage-inspired nostalgic kitsch honors the charm of yesteryear. You can add an unexpected twist by going pretty in pink. From blush

Peachtree Corners Magazine

in peacock-patterned blue ribbon in the formal living room reads granny chic. My “fragile” lamp from the Christmas Story movie is kitschmas cute. The dining room is woodsy with a pinecone and bird printed tablecloth. Part of an oak tree trunk, DIY sanded and glazed in clear acrylic, serves as a yuletide base for my centerpiece. Rounding out the woodland themed tablescape are napkins embroidered with stylized stag antlers in dark brown, Christmas tree patterned plates and glossy white stags sporting flocked wreaths around their necks. Live magnolia branches adorn the mirror above the buffet, intertwined with brown silk ribbon. Like mine, your home may have more than one Christmas story to tell after decades of collecting and curating décor. Feel free to break any rules and do what kindles your Christmas spirit. However we choose to deck the halls in holiday finery, the important thing is we’re setting the scene to create new memories with our loved ones.

Tablescapes Set your table several days in advance. Harrison has fun, whether dressing it up or keeping it casual. She pictures lanterns in varying sizes, with candles or ornaments inside, placed atop fresh greenery. Layering garlands, berries and small poinsettias is an easy way to achieve a classic look. Chef and caterer Melissa Gunderson of Morsels by Melissa loves to artfully assemble lavish fabrics on the table with some magnolia or evergreen branch accents. She completes the scene with candles and flowers.

Continued on page 44

Above, Melissa Gunderson. Left, Strawberry tarts with sweet crème fraîche, flourless chocolate cake bites with whipped cream, peanut butter mousse parfaits with Oreo crumble and whipped cream peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Upper School – Wednesday, January 17, 9:30 a.m. Lower School – Wednesday, January 24, 9:30 a.m.

EXPLORE WHY FAMILIES IN PEACHTREE CORNERS CHOOSE GAC. Infant- 12th Grade GAC.org 770-243-2273

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

In Motion Peachtree Corners, known for its technological prowess and intellectual vigor, is also a nurturing ground for artistic talents. In this hub where scientific innovation meets artistic creativity, the Peachtree Corners Photography Club stands out for its visual storytelling. Capturing the essence of motion, this series of images taken by more than 14 photographers showcases objects and people in motion as well as the motion of creativity and expression that flows through the community. The images range from fleeting moments of everyday life to the orchestrated movements of performing artists. The collection is a testament to the club’s commitment to exploring and celebrating all facets of motion. Each photograph in this series is a narrative in itself and tells a story of movement and change. The Peachtree Corners Photography Club, comprised of members from varied backgrounds and a range of expertise levels, embodies the spirit of continuous learning and artistic evolution. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a budding photographer or a seasoned pro, you have a place in the Peachtree Corners Photography Club. The club welcomes all to its monthly meetings, which serve as a melting pot of ideas and inspirations. Dive into the vibrant world of Peachtree Corners through the lens of its talented photographers. For more details about the club and its activities, visit pcphotoclub.org. ■

Top row, Paul D. Peterson—Hockey Anna Niziol—Bike ride for two Aldridge Murrell—Turbulence Tracey Rice—Power Serve Second row,

Scan QR to find out more about the club.

Brian Walton—Eco-Friendly Salon Service Goes the Extra Mile Eric Richter—Cooling Off Under the Water Jim Worthington—Dueling Guitars Marcia Brandes—Catching Dinner Bottom row, Vipul Singh—Town Center Splash Rafael Garcia—Let’s Go! Philip Hart—Traffic Under the Bridge

Peachtree Corners Magazine

peachtreecornerslife

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Top row, David Schilling— Paddle Board on Chattahoochee David Dunagan— Playful Soccer Kick Second row, Joby Peake— Speed, Jurgen Kohler— Sprucing Up Third row, Nicol Brna—Dog Anna Niziol—girl dancing Brian Walton— Kendall

Far left, Vipul Singh—Winter Freeze Walk Tracey Rice—I Thought This Would Be Easy

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Top row, Paul D. Peterson—Skater Eric Richter—The Big Hair Flip Second row, Jurgen Kohler—Take a peak Joby Peake—Soaring Third row, Marcia Brandes—Climbing down is harder David Dunagan—Hawk Spread Fourth row, Philip Hart—Landing near the shoals Jim Worthington—Lax Ball Scramble

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive

VISIT TODAY!

Scan to learn more!

EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

HomeGoods are great places to find warm, cozy throw blankets and holiday pillows to layer on seating, complementing your decorating scheme while indulging your guests’ sense of touch.

Sounds of the season Your company will hear uplifting echoes of laughter, clinking glasses and Christmas carols. I’ve looked into the highest-rated musicians for you. Elite Strings offers duo, trio and quartet booking options for your holiday parties. “Last year we worked with a group of carolers Erica Ransbottom and Tiffany Watson for a candlelight sing-along Ray, Founders of Elite Strings. Photo courtesy of Elite Strings. of Christmas favorites,” co-founder Erica Ransbottom shared. With a snow Continued from page 36 machine, an appearance from Santa himself and lights illuminating the garden, Ransbottom said of the party For a buffet display, Gunderson what we all hope to hear about ours, recommends creating different levels “It was magical.” Visit EliteStrings. using robust containers under black, com. cream or white fabric. “Bunch colorBlue Sky Atlanta Music & Enterful, themed linens around each level. tainment has been America’s most reThen, place greenery, décor and canferred entertainment company since dles around the corners of each level 1991. Concierge talent Jim Tiernan and between the food,” she advised. represents some of the best available I propose an all-white Christmas for any occasion. village like the Mark Feldstein & Tiernan shared some options for a Associates 31-Piece Porcelain TableChristmas party: “Favorites include top Winter Village (found on Amazon. classical string players, traditional com) lit with battery-powered tea Christmas carolers, solo lights, sprawling across the length of pianists and guitarists, the table atop a mountainous, snowy jazz trios and quartets.” base, complete with bottle brush evFind more at BlueSkyAtergreens in varying sizes. Use sturdy lanta.com. boxes of assorted heights to create the landscape. Then cover them with a faux snow blanket table runner like the PREXTEX Large Artificial Snow Roll, available through Amazon. Tip: Get better quality tea lights with remotes for ease of use. The ones that come with the set don’t last long. But any Christmas village you have will make a charming tablescape. At Pottery Barn, find gingerbread figural houses. Make them glow by tucking tiny string lights inside. Nestle a combination of small, tall and wide homes atop a white table runner and include holiday foliage and garland along the length of the runner for a nostalgic centerpiece.

A soft touch Pottery Barn, T.J. Maxx and

carols 24/7. There’s also a YouTube video to play on your smart TV; it’s a crackling hearth, garlanded for the season, and eight hours of mellow, instrumental holiday music at youtube.com/ watch?v=32-t79ls3rM. Try two hours of original songs over a cozy fire from artists like Michael Bublé, Ed Sheeran, Dolly Parton, Elton John, Coldplay, Sia and more at youtube.com/watch?v=oeZmH5jR-ss. As music plays in the background, the best sounds of all will be the merriment of everyone partaking in your holiday banquet.

A festive feast What’s the perfect holiday menu? “Variety is key,” Gunderson said. The chef believes it’s important to know your guests. Some will crave red meat; others prefer chicken. Offering a little of both is a splendid option. Gunderson suggests comforting sides like mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables. For hors d’oeuvres, five to seven items make for a nice buffet. Consider meat options like pepper-seared filet with horseradish cream and chicken skewers with a mouthwatering sauce, a few starchy items like mac and cheese bites or twice-baked mini potatoes, some vegetarian options like hot spinach and artichoke dip with fresh vegetable crudités and perhaps some cucumber cream tea sandwiches. Of course, one must round out every good menu with dessert. If it’s a hot dinner buffet, Gunderson

Budget-friendly music options Looking for something more low-key? Have your smart speaker play holiday tunes or create a free playlist on Spotify. Some of us still own CDs we’ve collected over the years. If you don’t mind DJing while entertaining, play your treasured favorites for guests. There’s a certain joy in anticipating each next song because you’ve memorized their order. Not that I’d know… Or find a TV channel that plays holiday music. For DirectTV subscribers, channel 858, All Xmas, plays fun Christmas

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

suggests bread pudding with a caramel-bourbon sauce or a warm peach crisp. For an hors d’oeuvres menu, serve sweets like flourless chocolate cake bites, key lime squares and banana pudding. Time-saving tip: Most everything can be prepared a few days in advance and oven-finished the day of the party, warmed and served. Cold items can be stored in containers and placed on platters right before guests arrive. “Definitely do your prep before the day of your event. Otherwise, you’ll be worn out and unable to enjoy your party,” Gunderson warned.

More time for guests and glam Want extra time to primp and tantalize partygoers’ taste buds without slaving in the kitchen? Morsels by Melissa can do the cooking for you! “We make anyone’s event much easier by providing a scrumptious buffet. Let Morsels do the work. You reap the benefits,” Gunderson smiled. Whether you want a delicious spread dropped off — or set up and served while a skilled team busses tables during your event — Morsels will cook everything to perfection, have everything running smoothly and make your party the talk of the town. Since they provide full service, they’ll clean up, place your packedup leftovers in the refrigerator and leave you more than satisfied. While buffets are easiest on hosts, a simple, plated meal or family-style platters are also an option. Learn more at morselsbymelissa.com or email Gunderson at morselsbymelissa@gmail.com.

Cheers!

Rob Ramos GM Corners Fine and Spirits gave terrific tips about stocking our holiday bar to our writer Patrizia Winsper

peachtreecornerslife

Interesting beverages will wet the whistle, complement the tasty meal and deliver more delectable flavors to your guests. I picked the brain of the knowledgeable and helpful Rob Ramos, general manager at Corners Fine Wine & Spirits, for some direction. For a well-stocked bar, Ramos suggested, “Have the basic spirits: bourbon whiskey, vodka, tequila, gin, brandy Cognac, champagne or other sparkling beverages and liqueurs.” For the winter, he

peachtreecornerslife

pointed me towards wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Shiraz and Chardonnay. Packaged hard seltzers or ready-to-drink liquor (RTD) is premixed, eliminating the need for any bartending skills. Seasonal picks of the Corners Fine Wine & Spirits team include Christmas at Biltmore wines and celebratory ales like Samuel Adams Beers for Cheers seasonal variety pack of six festive styles: Winter Lager, Holiday White Ale, Old Fezziwig, Cold IPA, Boston Lager and Oaked Vanilla Porter. Yuengling Hershey’s Chocolate Porter is another popular beer choice. General Manager Jonathan Gorman sharing his recipes with Patrizia Winsper

The holidays are a fun time to try limited edition Canadian whiskey, Crown Royal Salted Caramel, and Jack Daniel’s Winter Jack — a spiced apple cider whiskey liqueur, best served warm to enhance the aromas of warm apple cider, orange peel, cinnamon, clove, toasted oak, vanilla and whiskey. Bacardi Coquito, a cream-based liqueur, is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday cocktail. It’s made with Bacardi Superior Rum, dairy cream, coconut milk (“coquito” means little coconut), sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, cinnamon and cloves. Liqueurs like gingerbread and peppermint are popular at Christmas. You can’t go wrong with cocktails like Bailey’s espresso chocolate, espresso martinis, screwball eggnog, mudslide and white Russian RTDs.

Tips for the bar To avoid a mad dash on the day of your party, Ramos advises preparing the drink cart or bar in advance.

“It’s good to have mixers, stirrers, shakers, straws, napkins, wine openers and bar towels. Ice down beers and RTDs, designate a space for decanters, drinkware and ice,” he said. Drink identifiers like tags for glasses are helpful when you’re receiving a crowd. Garnishes can include cherries, lemon or lime wedges, olives, mint leaves and orange peels. To elevate cocktails, create a velvety texture and frothy cap that serves as a canvas for your garnishes by making foam using egg whites. First, do a dry shake to emulsify the egg; add the liquid drink ingredients, the egg whites — but no ice — and shake vigorously. Next, add the ice, shake again and voilà, you’ve added a little richness and magic to your cocktails. Corners carries a selection of holiday-themed novelty items like napkins, kitchen and bar towels and cards, as well as an extensive selection of wine and spirits. Check out cornersatl.com.

Grinch away

A holiday drink a day keeps the

Warm wishes At some point during your gathering, take a moment to survey the results of your efforts. Go ahead, smile like Mona Lisa while soaking in your own multisensory masterpiece. Take pleasure in your favorite folks being titillated by the orchestration of sensory inputs. They will have seen your adornments, smelled the pleasing odors wafting from candles and the kitchen, heard pleasant music and banter, felt your warm hugs and couches made even comfier with snuggle-worthy throws and pillows and savored the taste of food and beverages that tell the story of our heritage. The perfect holiday party may be an elegant soirée, a casual, multigenerational affair with family games or it can be a cookies and cocoa experience. It might be as simple as watching holiday movies while sharing a

charcuterie board and wine with friends. Choose what’s perfect for you. However you celebrate with those you hold closest in life, I’m sending warmest wishes with my final item in this aide-mémoire: Christmas comes but once a year, so make it a point to enjoy yourself! ■ *Find these recipes and more online at livinginpeachtreecorners.com.

Check the website for Delectable Food and Cocktail Recipes for Your Holiday Festivities LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Patrizia Blushing Under the Mistletoe Martini Ingredients • •

2 oz. Grey Goose vodka 1 ½ oz. PAMA lime sour mix (equal parts PAMA liqueur, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and cranberry juice)

Directions 1. 2. 3. 4.

Combine all ingredients in a shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass with a sugar rim. Garnish with a lime wheel, a lime twist or fresh cranberries.

Despite coming up with several delightful holiday cocktail recipes for me, from Patrizia’s Pink Pajamas to Winsper Wassail*, serving two to three signature drinks at an event is more than enough, according to Ramos. He recommends making batches ahead of time and chilling the cold ones in pitchers for easy refills. Corners Fine Wine & Spirits partnered with Stäge to create some holiday drinks. I requested a festive, refreshing, delicious drink and general manager Jonathan Gorman delivered by whipping-up a signature cocktail for me at Stäge. Made with PAMA liqueur, a blend of all-natural California pomegranates, premium vodka and a touch of tequila, my Blushing Under the Mistletoe Martini will make your occasion feel like a celebration. Since it’s the season of giving, I’m sharing the recipe with you. Just substitute my name with yours to make it your own.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

KNOWLEDGE

Stripling Elementary Sets Sights on STEM Certification

Principal Dr. Molly McAuliffe

he World Economic Forum, a not-for-profit foundation headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland focusing on entrepreneurship, recently cited three critical skills students will need for tomorrow’s work world: problem-solving, collaboration and adaptability. Those broad concepts can be challenging to come by. That’s why many education institutions lean toward a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) curriculum.

In Georgia, STEM and STEAM (the ‘A’ stands for arts) education is an integrated curriculum driven by exploratory project-based learning and student-centered development of ideas and solutions.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Photos by George Hunter

How a STEM curriculum impacts the community Stripling Elementary Principal Molly McAuliffe was aware of the benefits such an educational focus can have for all students, especially her student body of 800. With 84% of them qualifying for free or

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

reduced-price lunch, it is a Title I school. That means the Georgia Department of Education provides technical assistance, resources and program monitoring to ensure all children have a “significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable and high-quality education and to close educational achievement gaps.” “We like to say that [free and reduced-price lunch] classification is about how students pay for their meals. It has nothing to do with how they learn,” McAuliffe said. “Our goal is to provide a high-quality education for all students. And we believe here at Stripling that our kids can do anything they put their minds to.” Located in the Norcross Cluster, Stripling serves families from Peachtree Corners and Norcross. The school has had a close relationship with Paul Duke STEM High School and Norcross High School. “We’ve had student leaders from both schools come over and sort of mentor our kids in different ways,” peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Rebecca Phillips

said McAuliffe. The Norcross Robotics team was involved with the school’s STEM night in the past, and Paul Duke students who are part of the Society of Black Engineers have put together learning sessions for the elementary kids. “Paul Duke also has a mentoring program this year where they work with third-grade students,” she said. “They come over on Fridays and mentor some of our third graders to get them excited about school and learning and specifically about what they can learn in the STEM fields.”

A worthwhile endeavor With a student appetite for a new kind of learning, McAuliffe and her staff decided to become one of the few STEM-certified elementary schools in the county. Of Gwinnett County’s 88 elementary schools, three have state STEM certification. “We looked at [our school mission] as a team and updated it this past summer with our instructional

leadership team. When we looked at our vision about students becoming responsible, empathetic and driven world-class leaders, we thought about how we can achieve that,” said McAuliffe. “Things like encouraging effective communication, critical thinking and innovative problem solving among our student body were at the forefront,” she added. McAuliffe said that the school’s science director shared a fascinating statistic recently: 65% of the jobs that their students are going to be doing …do not yet exist. “We can’t be giving them specific facts or figures or little bits of knowledge. That is not going to help them. What will help them is if they know how to think critically, problem solve, be creative and effectively communicate with one another.” Those are all components of a STEM-based curriculum. Assistant Principal Frank Rodriguez and teacher Rebecca Phillips, now the school’s STEM coordinator, agreed to take on the STEM specials

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Principal Dr. Molly McAuliffe

class and lead the initiative for the school. “We’re at the beginning of this process, and we know it’s going to take about three to five years for us to get the STEM certification from the state,” said McAuliffe. “We know it’s challenging, but we also believe our kids deserve it.”

Getting students engaged As the STEM specials teacher, Phillips said she gets the “absolute wonderful privilege of teaching every single student in the school.

Just to see the kids spark up and get excited about the problems around us in the world, and maybe coming up with some solutions to solve them, is really what drives me.” STEM uses project-based learning where children are encouraged to use their natural curiosity and creativity to solve problems. “Kids that might just be sitting in the back of the classroom kind of bored and not interested get engaged when they have something that they can relate to and want to solve because, I think, kids in general

$20.00 ic raph sg thi

to redeem discoun t.

OFF FIRST EXAM

For New! Clients

Offer expires 1/31/2024

HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7AM–6PM Saturday: 8AM–6PM • Closed Sunday

Mu st

pre s

DR. KATIE DIPIETRO

Now Taking New Clients

Dr. DiPietro joined Peachtree Corners Animal Clinic May 2023 and is now taking appointments and surgical bookings. She joins us from South Carolina and is honored by the trust placed in her, not only by her patients, but also by the people and families that love them.

DR. ABBY PARSONS

just want to solve problems,” said Phillips. “They’re much more creative than adults, in my opinion, and they’re able to break out of that box that sometimes we get put into,” she elaborated. She said this is especially true for non-native English speakers since project-based learning requires students

to work in groups. “It requires them to communicate, and then it gives them so much more of a desire to work to acquire that English language,” said Phillips. “I watch them being so brave and working through that kind of quiet phase a little bit more quickly because they are dying to express themselves and communicate with their teammates.” The classes use grade-level-appropriate problems — and the students work out solutions. Recently, fifth graders were working with magnets when a student realized their STEM education could help a real-world issue. “One kid’s dad would always get flat tires. He worked in construction and there are always nails around,” said Rodriguez. “He invented a machine that used magnets to pick up the nails in the parking area.”

Bringing staff on board Although Stripling has just one teacher dedicated solely to STEM, it’s a concept that covers just about every subject. “Right now, we have been trying to get more teachers involved in the STEM process,” said Phillips. She employs the same techniques with educators that she uses to keep the kids engaged. For the past few months, several teachers have volunteered for what they call “sip and STEM” sessions. “In October, we took on a Halloween theme and added flavored syrups like peach and blueberry to a base of Sprite,” she said. “We gave them names like Dragon’s Blood.” Phillips also gave teachers and administrators a STEM challenge — how one might use light to scare people in a haunted house. “She taught us quickly how to build a circuit to light up light bulbs. Then she gave us cardboard boxes and a lot of fun materials like aluminum foil. We had to build the circuit and get it to light up in 40 minutes,” said McAuliffe. Those kinds of sharing experiences drive the point home and bring the other staffers — teachers and non-teaching staff — into the world of STEM. “We’re still in the process of learning all of the steps we’re going to need to go through,” said McAuliffe. “But we have submitted an intent to seek certification form with the State Department of Education.” Following the established rubric, McAuliffe is confident that Stripling will be able to add the STEM seal to its school accomplishments before the end of the decade. ■

Primrose School of Peachtree Corners

NOW REGISTERING! Limited Spaces Available for the 2024–2025 School Year Inquire Today! 770.409.8732

Now Taking New Clients

Dr. Parsons is a graduate of the University of Georgia Veterinary School. Her passion is being able to help her community and interact with owners! She loves spending time with her yellow lab mix Kali and her two cats Tito & Kronk, which she spoils rotten (as they should be).

770-448-0700 • AnimalDoctorofPeachtreeCorners.com 4020 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD | NORCROSS, GA 30092

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Chuck Waters

O PEN H O US E

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Local Students Shine as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Compiled and edited by Anna del Villar Officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of 80 Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) seniors and semifinalists in the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented students are part of 16,000 seniors across the U.S. who have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,140 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered next spring. Here are students from Peachtree Corners and its neighboring areas to receive the honor.

niors Kevin Liu and Akhil Sarikonda were named National Merit semifinalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Semifinalists must have outstanding academic records, a recommendation from a high school official, an essay submission and SAT or ACT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying PSAT test. Semifinalists are chosen from 1.3 million high school students who took the 2022 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during their junior year. “Kevin and Akhil are dedicated to their academics and pursue excellence both in the classroom and their many activities within GAC and out,” Dr. Paul Cable, GAC High School Principal, said. “We couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate the bright futures ahead for these exceptional students,” he added.

Scholarship semifinalist. He is also an AP Scholar with Distinction and an AP Capstone Diploma recipient, recognized by the Gwinnett Board of Education. His involvement in the Georgia Governor’s Honors Program and achievements in the Georgia Science and Engineering Fair highlight his scientific aptitude. Moreover, he has held leadership roles, such as the TSA President at Paul Duke STEM High School. He is a member of multiple honor societies, showcasing his well-rounded academic profile.

Lisa Van Ness

Josh Kavel

Kevin Liu

Peyton Harvey

Akhil Sarikonda

Kevin Liu and Akhil Sarikonda Earlier this October, Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) se-

This outstanding Paul Duke STEM High School senior exhibits remarkable academic achievements. He accelerated from sixth to eighth grade, making him the youngest in the 2024 graduating class. He scored an impressive 1570 out of 1600 on the SAT and 1490 out of 1520 on the PSAT, earning him a spot as a 2024 National Merit

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

hoping to become finalists and earn scholarship money from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Finalists will be announced in February. Additionally, seniors Alex Ebert, Kallaghan Freeman, Daniel Lim, Papa Ohemeng-Mensah, Junie Shin and Tengle Wang were named National Merit Commended students. Approximately 2% of seniors nationwide receive this recognition.

Dina Samson

Josh Kavel and Dina Samson The college advising office at Wesleyan recently announced that two of its high school seniors were recognized as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Seniors Josh Kavel and Dina Samson received the honor that only 1% of seniors achieve based on their PSAT scores. These seniors will submit essays, peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Lisa Van Ness National Merit Scholarship semifinalist Lisa Van Ness is a senior at Norcross High School. Van Ness excels in all academic areas but especially enjoys her STEM classes. Besides her success in the classroom, Van Ness is a member of the school’s color guard for the marching band and has spent three years on the cheer team. She is also an accomplished pianist and enjoys dancing, reading and baking in her free time.

More semifinalists from Gwinnett County Public Schools •

Archer High School: Brandon J. Woolfolk

•

Brookwood High School: Ella C. Chen, Dillon Grose, Katherine R. Johnson, Jake C. Lin, Mili N. Patel, Kapil Shankar, Scarlett I. Simmon, Aidan T. Stanley, Shayda E. Torab,

peachtreecornerslife

Matthew Xu and Calvin H. Zhu •

Collins Hill High School: Deborah Hwang

•

Duluth High School: Cassandra E. Norris

•

Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology: Gabriel M. Babb, Ipsita Bhattacharya, Rayna X. Chang, Iian M. Chen, Sunny N. Desai, Jason Dong, Bryan E. Ebagua, Harold H. Fu, Haven A. Hardy, Inhyuk Hwang, Kevin Jacob, Abhiram Kapaganty, Branden H. Kim, Hakimuddin H. Kitabwalla, Jade C. Lasanajak, Parv Mahajan, Diana E. Mawejje, Junmo Moon, Aayan M. Mukul, Seohyun Park, Anandita Pathak, Emily H. Phan, Sohaib Samad, Mitesh M. Shah, Kaylyn Shao, Elizabeth Singh, Shreya S. Srinivasan, Shivani H. Trivedi, Sohum Trivedi, Julian Varga, Nathan A. Wong, Eric Xu and Steven X. Zhou

•

Lanier High School: Cameron B. Lott

•

Mill Creek High School: Esther M. Jung, Alexander J. Vaitl

•

North Gwinnett High School: Lynden S. Baek, Dan Bratu, Ian J. Carsley, Yeseo Han, Aaron J. Kim, Philip Kim, Brennan D. Klingenberg, Jiali Liu, Eunice B. Maia, Keira C. Olds, Claire Park, Ethan S. Ro, Jonathan K. Schofield, Arjun R. Sheth, Noble L. Strickland, Jenny Thai, Jillian E. Vacha and Norman Wang

•

Parkview High School: Josie Chang, Grace M. Chiu, Aaron Qu, Alexis U. Solorzano, Devin A. Wright and Henney S. Wu

•

Peachtree Ridge High School: Rahul Pandit, Hailey Y. Park and Ananya Saxena

•

Seckinger High School: Hanvit L. Jung

National Merit Scholarship winners of 2024 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July 2024.■

Friends, Family and Fun

@THEFORUMPTC | THEFORUMPEACHTREE.COM

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BELIEVE

Holiday Faith Events make their way to Jingle Bell Beach for the famous Jingle Sing competition. When a storm ruins the contestants’ plans to get home in time for Christmas, things come to a head with a “Reindeer Rumble,” a spontaneous song competition to determine the winner of the year’s event. With the competition heating up, one of the contestants struggles to understand the meaning of Christmas. Others share the story of Jesus and the spirit of competition quickly transforms into the spirit of Christmas. Winterfest

Winterfest Perimeter Church

Join Christ the King for its annual Christmas concert, free and family friendly. A light reception will be provided before the concert.

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

KidsPraise Performance: Jingle Bell Beach!

Holiday Services & Events

Sunday, December 3. 6-7:30 p.m.; doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Unity Atlanta Church

Sunday, December 3. 2 p.m.

The community is welcome to this family-friendly event filled with a carol sing-along, activities for the kids, treat trucks and more. Join in the fun and stay for the tree lighting at dark.

Christmas Cantata at Christ the King Lutheran Church Sunday, December 3. 4 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church 575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners ctklutheran.org Admission: free

Peachtree Corners Baptist Church 4480 Peachtree Corners Cir., Peachtree Corners pcbchurch.org, 770-448-1313 Admission: free At the annual KidsPraise performance, Peachtree Corners Baptist kindergarten through 5th grade kids will perform Jingle Bell Beach. The evening includes an opening performance from the 4-year-old choir. About the show: Young vocal groups from around the country

December 3-January 7

3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org, 770-441-0585 Admission: free Unity Atlanta Church celebrates the holiday season with a variety of special services and activities. All Unity Atlanta Church Sunday morning services are held in person in the Sanctuary and virtually by livestream at unityatl.org/live-stream/. Youth Sunday School is held at 11 a.m. for ages 5 through 18. Childcare for infants through age 4 is available 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. All are invited to

attend. Check the website for more children’s activities. ■ First Sunday of Advent Service “Faith Keeps Watch” — December 3, 11 a.m. ■ Coffee House — Friday, December 8, 7 p.m. Held in Fellowship Hall. Celebrate Christmas and other spiritual and cultural holidays in December through sharing beloved traditions and music. A potluck meal is included. ■ Second Sunday of Advent Service “Peace Provides Security” — December 10, 11 a.m. ■ 2000 Years of Christmas — Sunday, December 10, 12:30 p.m. Held in the Chapel. Explore the holiday from multiple perspectives: sacred and secular, historical, traditionally, meanings and more. A 45-minute show from The History Channel is included. Bring your own lunch. ■ Third Sunday of Advent Service “Love Brings Comfort” and Remembrance Sunday with Flower Wreath Ceremony — December 17, 11 a.m. ■ Winter Solstice Sound Healing and Yuletide Celebration Service with Lighting of Joy Advent Candle — Thursday, December 21, 7 p.m. in the Chapel. In-person only. ■ Christmas Eve Sunday Morning Candle Lighting Service “Christmas Wishes Come True” — December 24, 11 a.m. ■ Burning Bowl Sunday Morning Service — December 31, 11 a.m. Release what needs to be released into the burning bowl and start the New Year afresh. Bring your letters to God of what you want to affirm for next year in a stamped, self-addressed envelope to be mailed back to you next December. ■ White Stone Ceremony Sunday Morning Service — January 7, 2024, 11 a.m. Take the opportunity to center into yourself and see who you truly are with the White Stone ceremony.

Nutcracker 2023 Friday-Saturday, December 8-9. 2 p.m. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Compiled by Kathy Dean

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Growing Leaders

peachtreecornerslife

Perimeter Church 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek peachtreecornerslife

Rev. Fr. Edgar Otero Joins Christ Church Episcopal in Norcross

perimeter.org, 678-405-2000 Tickets: $15 Perimeter Ballet presents The Nutcracker.

Hanukkah Celebration & Dinner Sunday, December 10. 4:30-7:30 p.m. Beth Shalom 5303 Winters Chapel Rd., Dunwoody bethshalom.net, 770-399-5300 Dinner cost: Adults (over 8 years) $10; children (7 years and under) $8; RSVP online by Dec. 6 The Beth Shalom family gathers for the annual Hanukkah Celebration with dinner, crafts for all ages, Hanukkah and Israeli dancing and collecting food for JF&CS pantry.

A Service of Lessons & Carols Friday, December 15. 7 p.m. Mary Our Queen Catholic Church 6260 The Corners Pkwy., Peachtree Corners

maryourqueen.com, 770-416-0002, Admission: free The service will feature Mary Our Queen’s Adult Choir, Schola Choir and Youth Choir, along with Organ and the MOQ Instrument Ensemble. Scripture passages recount the fall of mankind, the promise of the Messiah and the anticipation of the Nativity of Christ. Each lesson is followed by a choral piece, soloist or congregational carol to help everyone reflect on the Scripture message.

Christ Church Episcopal, off Holcomb Bridge Rd in Norcross, is pleased to announce that Rev. Fr. Edgar Otero will be joining the parish beginning January 3, 2024. Father Edgar was born in Puerto Rico and relocated to the mainland 23 years ago. He is married to Marycelis and has two children, Eliam Manuel, age 17 and Edgar Ezekiel, age 14. Father Edgar has a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico. He also attended Mount St. Mary’s University and Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD, and St. Vincent College and Seminary in Latrobe, PA, where he studied at a master’s level in Roman Catholic theology. Father Edgar graduated with honors, acquiring a master’s in divinity with a certificate in Anglican/Episcopal Studies from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta. Father Edgar served on the Vestry of St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, his home parish, as a seminarian at Grace Episcopal Church for four years, as a teacher and Chaplain at St. Benedict’s Episcopal School and as a Priest-InCharge of St. Anthony’s Episcopal Church in Winder, GA. ■

Coffee House Christmas Friday, December 15. 7-8:30 p.m. Simpsonwood UMC, Family Life Center Bldg. C 4500 Jones Bridge Cir., Peachtree Corners simpsonwoodumc.org, 770-4412181 Refreshments and music will be shared.

Annual Christmas Program Sunday, December 17. 10:30 a.m. The Father’s House Church 6060 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners thefathershouseatl.org, 770-840-0888 Admission: free Celebrate the season with traditional songs and dance. ■

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BUSINESS

MAGISNAT Introduces Community to the Power of Polyphenols at Wellness Event

Kevin Donato and Dr. Matteo Bertelli

hen Italy-based MAGISNAT launched its U.S. hub in Gwinnett County 15 months ago, it had four nutritional supplements and one wellness test under development. Today, it has 25 supplements and four welln¬ess tests that will launch early next year. At the heart of MAGISNAT’s work and research is a passion for

the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle and its benefits to health and wellness. The leading ingredient in the company’s formulations is olive leaf extract, one of the most potent antioxidants in the world. So, it was only fitting that MAGISNAT met with medical and wellness companies and residents interested in optimizing their health at VSOP

By Carol Casey

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Olive Oil and Vinegar Taproom in Norcross, GA.

The science behind the Mediterranean diet Biotechnology researcher at MAGISNAT, Kevin Donato, noted the polyphenol count in all the surrounding artisanal olive oils, underscoring the heart of the company’s research. “We have been researching polyphenols from Mediterranean diet food for 15 years. Citrus fruits, vegetables and particularly olive tree leaves contain polyphenols that help balance the body on a molecular level and provide micronutrients that curb inflammation,” he explained. Donato says the company’s wellness tests, developed through leading-edge OMICS research, help individuals understand their unique

peachtreecornerslife

Donato and Bertelli discussing their passion for the Mediterranian Diet with Medical Esthetician Chelsea Thaw

genetic setup, allowing for personalized diet, nutritional supplementation and physical activity plans. “Personal Health is finally personalized. Our tests also provide monitoring to determine whether lifestyle choices, including diet, nutritional supplementation and physical activity, are providing effective benefits, and if not, make corrections,” said Donato. VSOP Olive Oil and Vinegar Taproom co-founder William Mackson says the high polyphenol count and careful resourcing of the MAGISNAT supplements echo their own stringent standards. “The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil rely on optimal growing conditions, as well as careful harvesting and timely processing,” said Mackson. MAGISNAT supplements are available for purchase at VSOP.

peachtreecornerslife

The event attracted people in the medical community and residents interested in improving their health. Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor Dana Reynolds was interested in learning about the science MAGISNAT used to design their DNA wellness tests and formulations. “I believe in the importance of

nutritional supplements for my clients, and I am always looking for responsibly resourced options for my clients that can improve health and well-being. I also admire and respect Europe’s stringent standards in harvesting and producing supplements,” said Reynolds.

Food that fuels

Attendees of the event were treated to gourmet Mediterranean-style appetizers provided by Gathering Industries. Gathering Industries Chef Chris Hardaway said the demand for healthier options is growing. “We see an increasing desire from clients to provide menus that accommodate diverse dietary prefer-

ences, such as gluten-free, vegetarian or low-carb. Mediterranean-style food easily provides options to accommodate these preferences while also providing a delicious, well-rounded menu,” said Hardaway. MAGISNAT founder and President Dr. Matteo Bertelli says the company is passionate about bringing healthy Mediterranean-style

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

“We use these natural molecules in our supplements to provide people with a way to boost micronutrients they may be missing in their regular diet,” he continued.

HOW TO

Reduce Owner Dependence When Selling

Many business owners may think that the tough part is over once they make the call to sell their business. While there’s no doubt that decision can be hard, there is still work to be done. Owners must adapt their business environment to continue running without them.

Reducing Dependence on You An excellent place to start reducing dependence on you to run the show is by documenting processes for your business and ANN BARHAM ABarham@tworld.com delegating responsibilities. Here are some steps you can take to start to wean yourself away before you sell:

1 2 3

Build A Strong Management Team Boost the Confifiddence/Capability of Your Team Spend Less Time in the Offificce

A U.S. home in Peachtree Corners MAGISNAT has made Peachtree Corners the hub of their U.S. operations, working closely with a Gwinnett Country initiative to attract Italy-based Guests at the event were businesses to this area. treated to healthy “We are very pleased Mediterranean appetizers to call Peachtree Corners by Gathering Industries our home in the U.S. and Chef Chris Hardaway appreciate the warm welcome from the comeating and living to the U.S. munity. We look forward to further “When we give our bodies the connecting with medical practices, right micronutrients along with prinutritional and wellness consuloritizing socialization, engagement tants, and individuals looking to with art and music and proper sleep, improve their health and well-bewe provide our bodies with the fuel ing,” said Donato. ■ it needs to fight noncommunicable diseases that attack our brain, joints, Scan the QR Code for heart and gut,” he explained. information on purchasing The Mediterranean diet has reMAGISNAT nutritional ceived top honors for several years supplements and tests or from US News and World Report as for wholesale pricing. the #1 recommended diet in the U.S. “The Mediterranean diet is well known to researchers and the subject of substantial scientific inquiry. Our team of Italian and U.S. university researchers study natural molecules that provide critical preventative properties in Mediterranean diet plant food,” said Bertelli.

Prove To Buyers the Business Works Without You To ensure your business sells for the best possible price, KARL BARHAM you must prove to a new buyer that the company can operate KBarham@tworld.com without you. It may be hard to step away, but if you have done your job right, the company will have the tools to succeed independently. Some actions you can take to prepare yourself include delegating responsibilities to trusted employees, developing a succession plan, detailing your company’s processes and procedures, and implementing any necessary new technologies. Is it time for you to sell? Consider the experts at Transworld Business Advisors of Atlanta Peachtree. We can help guide you through the process from start to finish. Explore your options and receive a complimentary valuation by giving us a call 770-766-9855 or email atlantapeachtree@tworld.com today!

www.tworld.com/locations/atlantapeachtree

Visit Us Online

@TransworldBusinessAdvisorsAtlantaPeachtree @TBAAtlantaPeach https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/transworld -business-advisors-of-atlanta-peachtree

770-766-9855

atlantapeachtree@tworld.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Solis Peachtree Corners Breaking Ground A new apartment Rendering of the Solis Peachtree Corners development, Solis Peachtree Corners, will hold its groundbreaking ceremony on December 6 at 2:30 p.m. The event marks the addition of 249 luxury apartment units to the Peachtree Corners Town Center area. The ceremony will be attended by Mayor Mike Mason, who will deliver a keynote speech to celebrate this achievement. Key development team members will also be present to discuss the project’s vision and design inspiration. Solis Peachtree Corners represents a milestone for the Fortune-Johnson firm. This is the company’s 150th multifamily project since inception and its 15th collaboration with Terwilliger Pappas. Following the groundbreaking, a reception will be held at the Fortune-Johnson office, offering an opportunity for attendees to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages while networking and celebrating the occasion. Guests are encouraged to register for the event. For more information, contact Leah Singleton at 770-458-5899. ■ peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

North American Properties Invests in Security Technology at The Forum Peachtree Corners Streamlining critical communications with Fusus

Flock Safety Camera

ccording to the National Retail Federation’s 2023 National Retail Security Survey, external theft, including organized retail crime (ORC), accounted for an average of 36% of retail sales losses in 2022. Now more than ever, brands and landlords alike are seeking tools to mitigate this issue. Organizations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) are advocating for both through Congressional support for the INFORM Consumers Act and S. 140/H.R. 895, the bipartisan “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023.” In response to this rising threat, North American Properties (NAP) has invested in bridging software from two Atlanta-based companies, Flock Safety and Fusus, to enhance its security measures at The Forum Peachtree Corners. “With our ongoing commitment to revolutionizing the retail real estate industry through technology and innovation, we are proud to partner with local municipalities and law enforcement agencies on curating secure communities for our guests, tenants and employees,” said Jay Richard-Yu, NAP director of innovation and digital assets. “Technology has the power to automate workflows, and binding these

assets will provide management with an advanced, interconnected approach toward combating ORC at The Forum,” he added.

Flock Safety’s license plate recognition software Co-founded by Georgia Tech alumni Garrett Langley and Matt Feury in 2017, Flock Safety is an allin-one technology solution designed to eliminate crime and keep communities safe. Flock License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras provide objective evidence to help solve crimes, 70% of which are committed with a vehicle, and prevent potential issues, including shoplifting, parking lot break-ins and vehicle theft. The cameras capture license plates and vehicle characteristics, not people or faces, and send real-time alerts to security personnel and/ or law enforcement when a vehicle associated with a known offender or endangered person passes the camera. The Forum has been equipped with Flock LPR cameras for two years, and NAP bolstered the property’s security infrastructure this fall through a public-private partnership with the City of Peachtree Corners, adding 27 external cameras across the site.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

To further streamline surveillance and communication processes between the onsite security team and local law enforcement, Fusus has also been integrated into the multi-layered camera system through its proprietary CORE appliance. Fusus was Launched in Peachtree Corners during the summer of 2019 by U.S. Navy veteran Chris Lindenau, CEO, and U.S. Army veteran Anthony Baldoni, COO. Fusus is a cloud-based, Real-Time Crime Center and Security Operations platform that extracts and unifies live video, data and sensor feeds from public and private sources, enhancing the situational awareness and investigative capabilities of law enforcement agencies. Merging resources into a single, efficient and unified stream of information, Fusus allows for policy-based, intelligence-led policing and faster emergency response times.

Crime prevention in Peachtree Corners Recognized as this year’s 19th Best Place to Live for Families by Fortune Magazine, the City of Peachtree Corners recently implemented a Marshal Program to serve as a non-emergency force multiplier and liaison between the community and

the Gwinnett County Police Department. It has also deployed Connect Peachtree Corners, a new public safety program enabling local residents and businesses to register cameras within the community-wide network to aid local law enforcement in gathering timely evidence during active investigations. “The City has enhanced its camera program by deploying Automated License Plate Readers and cameras in strategic locations,” said Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason. “The City’s Connect Peachtree Corners program for residents and businesses to register their cameras has been very well-received. The inclusion of The Forum within the Fusus platform will expand our ability to provide a high level of public safety,” he explained. NAP acquired The Forum through a joint venture partnership with Nuveen Real Estate in March 2022 and has since increased its security coverage by 35% as part of an ongoing redevelopment effort. Learn more about the retrofit project at theforumpeachtree.com/redevelopment/. To view NAP’s mixed-use portfolio, visit leasing.naproperties.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn and X to keep up with happenings. ■ By Peachtree Corners Staff

Rendering of the planned renovation of southern end of The Forum

peachtreecornerslife

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Business Organizations and Events

Peachtree Corners Business Association Pms 350 c

Atlanta Tech Park

107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 404-797-1221 | atlantatechpark.com

Atlanta Tech Meet Up Tuesday, December 5. 6-8 p.m. Sponsored by Resolvit, the monthly meet-up is held on the first Tuesday of every month in the Atlanta Tech Park Café. Everyone is invited to network and join a good group of people discussing anything related to technology.

Holiday Ping Pong Tournament Tuesday, December 12. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. ATP will hold its 6th annual holiday ping pong tournament. Join the bracket and enjoy food catered by City Barbecue. Email maddie@ emnovate.com to compete or learn more.

of Vivify Solutions and Software Engineer, will delve into the world of Honeybook, an innovative platform designed to transform the way you manage your business.

Georgia AI Summit January 18-19. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The event that brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs and small business owners from various sectors to explore the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on small businesses. This summit serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking and discovering cutting-edge technologies that can drive the growth and success of small businesses.

Pms 369 c

4989 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners 678-969-3385 | peachtreecornersba.com

PCBA Business After Hours Year End Celebration

atmosphere on the second Tuesday of the month. Business cards will be shared with all attendees.

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

PCBA Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening: Second Story / A Private Office Collective

Hilton Atlanta Northeast, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners Event registration is $35. Advanced registration is $25 for members and $30 for guests. Includes appetizers and drinks. Celebrate the holidays and enjoy a fun evening of music with DJ Troy Cono and a variety of beverages and great food. Forsyth Business Radio X will be on-site conducting live interviews to capture the excitement of the evening. A check will be awarded to Corners Outreach, one of the three charities PCBA raised money for at the annual charity event.

PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup Tuesdays, December 12. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Free admission for PCBA members and their guests. Register online as space is limited. Meet with other PCBA and business professionals over coffee in a positive

Second Story, A Private Office Collective 3375 Oak Harbor Dr., Peachtree Corners; behind the residential building of Broadstone Peachtree Corners Admission is free; advance registration is required. Celebrate the grand opening of Peachtree Corners’ newest collaborative work environment.

PCBA Lunch Club Thursday, December 28. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Marlow’s Tavern, Peachtree Corners Town Center, 5210 Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Open to PCBA members and their guests. Advance registration is appreciated. Meet up with PCBA members for an enjoyable way to network and save 15% off your lunch check.

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce 107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 southwestgwinnettchamber.com

Gwinnett Women’s Chamber: Tech Talk

First Friday Breakfast

Friday, December 15. 12-2 p.m.

Friday, December 1. 7:30-9 a.m.

Admission: $15 for members; $25 for non-members. ▼Speaker Victoria Walker, founder

Atlanta Northeast Hilton, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners Admission: $28 for members, $35 for non-members; registration required. The speaker is Keith Jennings, Vice President at Community Impact Jackson Healthcare. He is responsible for the organization’s multi-faceted charitable outreach.

ATL Unlocked Wednesday, January 24. 6-8 p.m. The second annual ATL Unlocked features Dean Andrews, Head of Developer Relations at Intersystems discussing their Comprehensive Start Up Program. There will be networking, drinks and small bites.

SWGC Coffee Connections Thursday, December 7. 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Thursday, December 14. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Free admission for SWGC members and visitors. Meet up with local business professionals over coffee. Meetings are normally held in the large meeting space behind the SWGC office at Atlanta Tech Park.

Business After Hours at 45 South Cafe Thursday, December 14. 5-7 p.m. 45 South Café, 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross Details TBA. More info on the festivities will be released soon. Please watch the SWG website.

peachtreecornerslife

Get Con onnnect cteed Upcoming Events

DEC 1

December First Friday Breakfast

with Keith Jennings, Vice President Community Impact Jackson Healthcare Time: 7:30 AM–9:00 AM

Choose an event and learn about opportunities the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Offers Locally!

Coffee Connections Every Thursday

DEC 14

Location: Atlanta Tech Park | 107 Technology Parkway

DEC 7

8:30 AM–9:30 PM

After Hours Holiday Party

JAN 10

@ 45 South Café Time: 5:00 PM–7:00 PM

8:30 AM–9:30 PM

President’s Council

Chairman’s Circle

Executive Level

Inter eres estted in Member ersship? Visit Us Online for Updated Information on Events and Dates

SouthwestGwinnettChamber.com

@SouthwestGwinnettChamber @swgcga @southwest-gwinnett-chamber

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

COMMUNITY

Peachtree Corners Traffic Improvements Will Continue into 2024 Before, Spalding Road

After, Spalding Road widening.

The project was coordinated by Gwinnett County, the city of Peachtree Corners and the city of Sandy Springs, with an estimated cost of $10.8 million. It took about three years for the project to be completed. “Part of it is also connected to the intersection of Winters Chapel Rd at Spalding Dr where we added a right turn lane,” said Sadd. “If you’re in the line of traffic and someone in front of you is turning left before you just had to wait for that person to turn left. Now you can pop into the right-hand lane and keep going.” The fully completed development will have multi-use paths along Spalding Dr as part of the T-SPLOST project. Improvements will include a multiuse path along the south side of Spalding Dr, from Winters Chapel Rd to River Exchange Dr, and a sidewalk on the north side of Spalding Dr from Winters Chapel Rd to River Exchange Dr. The sidewalks will connect to the existing sidewalks on Holcomb Bridge Rd and provide improved accessibility to Crooked Creek Park and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Traffic circles are making the ‘rounds’

ith so much development in Peachtree Corners these days, District 1 City Councilman Phil Sadd hosted a town hall meeting on Nov. 2 to update residents on changes happening

in the city. One topic that garnered the most discussion was traffic projects. “There are many different projects we’ve been doing throughout the city. We’ve got major intersections where we can improve traffic flow,” Sadd told the audience of about 100. “There is no silver bullet to fix traffic, but we’re looking at where traffic exists at specific intersections and what we can do to improve the traffic flow,” he explained.

Widening of Spalding Dr and Crooked Creek Bridge

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Peachtree Corners Magazine

The first completed project Sadd touched upon was the widening of Spalding Dr over Crooked Creek,

which included a new bridge. As part of Gwinnett County’s 2017 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) program, Spalding Dr was widened from a two-lane road to a four-lane highway, spanning from Winters Chapel Rd to Holcomb Bridge Rd. “Before the project started … it was two lanes going across the bridge, not really a sidewalk on one section, no sidewalk on the other side. The street often flooded. There was no curb and gutters,” said Sadd. “It’s gone from two lanes to five lanes over the bridge. We got a center lane turning lane onto River Exchange,” he added.

peachtreecornerslife

Another significant development is the traffic circle at Medlock Bridge Rd and Peachtree Corners Cir. Although it’s completed, it is adjacent to intersection improvements at Medlock Bridge Rd and Bush Rd, which is expected to be finished in fewer than three months. Once residents get comfortable with traffic circles, it appears that there will be many more in the city’s future. With the traffic snarls leading into The Forum, the city is looking into putting in another traffic circle. “If you’re turning left out of The Forum by Trader Joe’s, it’s extremely difficult,” said Sadd. “And turning left into The Forum at that spot is also difficult. A traffic circle will help with congestion at that location.” peachtreecornerslife

Give Us Your Thoughts on Live Outdoor Theatre. It’s only a 2 minute survey with 6 questions. We’ll publish the results on our website and magazine livinginpeachtreecorners.com Scan the QR code to get started.

A possible design for a roundabout on Peachtree Corners Circle side of The Forum.

The preliminary design is underway now.

Holcomb Bridge Rd at River Exchange Dr project The Holcomb Bridge Rd, Spalding Rd, and River Exchange Dr project is a Georgia Department of Transportation initiative scheduled to start in the summer of 2024. The project was approved in 2019 and is expected to cost $2.7 million upon completion. Authorities hope the project will improve traffic flow, relieve conges-

tion and reduce delays at the intersection of SR 140, Holcomb Bridge Rd and Spalding Dr by enhancing accessibility and utilizing adjacent intersections to facilitate traffic. The plans are to remove the dedicated left-turn lanes along Spalding Dr at the intersection of SR 140 and Holcomb Bridge Rd and reroute them to existing intersections along River Exchange Dr and Wetherburn Way. The changes will primarily be minor street widening, milling and inlaying and concrete median installation. ■

Give a gift that keeps on giving! Sign up and bring an adult guest

SUCCESSFUL RETIREMENT STRATEGIES

A CLASS DESIGNED TO PUT YOU IN CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE Two Tuesdays Mar. 5th & 12th 6-9pm Classes held at: Sugarloaf Campus

Take your first step...

*Tuition includes you + 1 adult guest, class notebook, and an optional no-cost personal planning consultation

To register: Scan the QR code, visit www.RogerSGreen.com or call 770-931-1414

No time for class? Call Green Financial at 770-931-1414 or visit www.RogerSGreen.com to schedule your complimentary consultation, even if it's only for a 2nd opinion.

More than 35 Years of Helping People with their Money Let us help you with these, and more: When can I retire? Investment decisions Tax reduction/deferral Maximize 401k/403b IRA/Roth contributions Pension/Retirement decisions Harvesting assets in retirement Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP® Barron’s Top 1000/1200 Advisors Andrew Green, CFP®, AIF® 2009-2016 & 2019-2020 Michael Green, CWS® Investment Advisor Representatives offering securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Cetera Advisors and Green Financial are not affiliated. Gwinnett Tech does not endorse and is not affiliated with Green Financial Resources, its representatives, or Cetera Advisors. The information presented and materials distributed is are general and educational in nature; and are not intended to provide personal advice or counseling. Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results; nor as an endorsement by any client. No payment required to win. “Best of” winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, along with other available information. Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s is based on total assets (AUM), revenue, and other factors. Green Financial is located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 140, Duluth GA 30096.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

New City Marshals Sworn In During November City Council Meeting

s the city of Peachtree Corners geared up to celebrate its decennial, its proximity to the mean streets of Atlanta became evident. Crime had begun to rise sharply, and residents were demanding solutions from city officials. While many proposed that a city police force was necessary, others shuddered at the exorbitant costs such an endeavor would have on the municipality, considering it doesn’t levy residential property taxes. After much discussion and debate, a city marshal program became the

By Arlinda Smith Broady

answer. Now the newest and most populous city in Gwinnett County has another layer of law enforcement to protect and serve its residents.

Who are the chief and deputy city marshals? The three officers, Chief City Marshal Edward Restrepo, Deputy City Marshal J. L. Bing and Deputy City Marshal H. A. Mesa, were formally introduced to the public and sworn in during the Nov. 14 city council meeting. Mayor Mike Mason prodded them into a little on-the-spot public speaking. “I want to thank my family for coming out. I appreciate your support during this whole time. I also want to thank the mayor, the council, city manager Brian [Johnson] and everybody we work with daily. I appreciate your support, and [I’m] looking forward to the journey ahead of us,” said Mesa. Proving to be a man of few words, Bing agreed with Mesa and handed the mic over to Restrepo, formerly the West Precinct commander for the

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Gwinnett County Police Department. “I want to take this moment to give a special thank you to my fellow marshals. I just came on Nov. 1. I went on a little vacation because I recently retired from Gwinnett [police] and just returned this week. So today is technically my second day,” said Restrepo. “We have come a long way because of the hard work that these two gentlemen have put forth,” he said, gesturing to Mesa and Bing. “They have come in every day and done some incredible things. They have allowed me to walk into a good, easier position because they have been behind the scenes writing policies, getting cars, uniforms … writing intergovernmental agreements,” he added. All three men vowed to hit the ground running and improve the quality of life for those who visit, live, work and play in Peachtree Corners. peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

A safer community for all “This is a culmination of something that you’ve challenged me with for a while: are we doing everything we can to make the city a safe place?” City Manager Brian Johnson said to the mayor and council. “And you’ve approved a lot of measures, many in the technology area, for us to improve our ability to deter hopefully, but if not, prosecute and identify crime,” he elaborated. Even though technology is a powerful tool, it’s only as good as those wielding it. “There are instances where you end up needing to put human assets into the mix,” Johnson continued. “These marshals will be uniquely positioned to go where you need them to go. To deal with what you feel is the most important law enforcement

peachtreecornerslife

activity at that time. And given that Gwinnett [County] is still our police department, our officers can be additional assets to be utilized,” he asserted.

To serve and protect In an earlier interview, Restrepo added that he’s always had an affinity for this area of Gwinnett County and worked to get back to West Precinct in more than one job. Well before Peachtree Corners became a city, and well before the idea of forming another level of security came to fruition, Restrepo helped to protect the community. “We, the city, concluded that we needed to do something more than what we were doing at the time. That ‘more’ was going to involve people,” said Johnson. “In this case, we required post-certified law enforcement officers who have been through the police academy and are certified the same way.” Although they will carry similar weapons as police officers and have the same arrest authority as police

Edward Restrepo

officers, their primary directive is a little different. They won’t be answering dispatched calls. That is left up to Gwinnett County Police, who have been safeguarding Peachtree Corners residents since the city was founded. “While the differences may seem slightly confusing, they’re quite simple,” said Johnson. “There were a few areas that we’ll call gaps between code enforcement and the law enforcement that Gwinnett PD provides,” he said. “And we identified a few instances where Gwinnett PD could not enforce our city code.”

A win for the city “We went back and looked at our

J. L. Bing

budget, and we were able to staff a city marshal office without having to collect any additional revenue from our residents,” explained Johnson. “Oftentimes, when you have a need like this, you must raise taxes or charge a fee. We don’t have to do that. So that’s a huge value right there,” he went on to say.

Technology’s role in crime prevention Another plus Johnson pointed out is that Peachtree Corners has technology that Gwinnett County doesn’t have the resources to leverage at its fullest. “Everything from our videos and license plate recognition and the camera assets we have in the city

continue to grow,” said Johnson. “Overall, citywide, we’re pushing 150 [cameras] between the town center and various locations. … [We can] throw in extra resources like drones because of our partnership with Curiosity Lab.” Curiosity Lab is a H. A. Mesa catalyst for innovations like the private citizen cameras that have been utilized by law enforcement to solve crimes. The city lucked out again when seeking a leader for the new city marshals program. “We went through the process of interviewing, and we happened to get three [candidates] that are post-certified, have had long careers and spent time at West Precinct,” said Johnson. “They know Peachtree Corners and, in the case [of former West Precinct Commander Restrepo], he not only has the experience but was in charge of West Precinct for a period of time. He is also getting ready to finish his PhD on using technology for law enforcement purposes.” ■

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Curiosity Lab Hosts 10th Annual SMART Community Exchange Collaboration at its finest

“S

o how many of you are here that do not live in the state of Georgia?” asked Tana Torrano, co-founder of SMART Community Ex-

By Arlinda Smith Broady

change and host of the event at Peachtree Corners Curiosity Lab. Nearly half of the 100 or so attendees raised their hands. “Now, how many of you are not from the United States?” she asked. Most of the hands that were up previously shot up again. “Look at this diversity,” she said. “What a great opportunity to learn from each other, create opportunities and grow.” SMART Community Exchange is a public and private partnership that promotes SMART trade, investment, education, knowledge and cultural exchange.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

This type of gathering is becoming more and more commonplace in Gwinnett County’s newest and largest city. In his opening remarks, Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason touched upon the evolution of technology and collaboration that have given the area the moniker “Silicon Orchard.” “We have a fair number of international startups here from France, England, Taiwan, Israel and Canada,” he said. He recalled the spring when a Canadian delegation launched its first-ever 100% Canadian-built electric vehicle into the North American market. “I didn’t realize that we were a proxy for this kind of a market,” said Mason. “And without hesitation, they said, ‘Oh, we love what you’re doing here.’” The word is getting out that Peachtree Corners is innovation friendly. There is free 5G wireless infrastructure conducive to real-world testing and owned by the city. There are collaborations that don’t infringe upon intellectual property rights, some of the highest levels of cybersecurity one can find and proximity to some of the most scientific minds in the country.

Nordic Innovation Exchange moves in Minna LeVine, founder of the Nordic Innovation Exchange (NIE) and chair of the Nordic Business Council, announced that NIE’s new home would be at Curiosity Lab. With decades of leadership experience managing organizations, individuals and brands, she has grown established companies and built merchant businesses. She also acts as a liaison between international management teams. In those roles, she utilized her perspective on business and community operations to choose “Silicon Orchard” as the perfect place for the future growth of businesses peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

in her region. NIE was founded in 2006 with the goal of transferring technology from Europe to the U.S. To date, it has reached over 5 million globally, with operations on every continent. “Three years ago, we started a strategic partnership between Europe and the United States due to geopolitical situation. And we feel very strongly that the timing is right,” LeVine explained. “And it is very necessary for us to build partnerships between governments, enterprises, organizations, community leaders and individuals across the United States, as well as our allies,” she added. She expressed that a significant component of the SMART Community Exchange conference is to discuss several key initiatives to bring about more “smart cities.” “For the next three years … we are going to build smart and resilient communities. We must remember that when we build these technologies and deploy these projects, we focus on the safety and security of our people,” she said. Cybersecurity is another reason Curiosity Lab is such a great fit for this global initiative. “The partnership with Curiosity Lab will enable and accelerate the commercialization of new technology and provide innovators and investors access to resources and business ecosystems,” she continued. “They need to successfully prove new technology plans for new market expansion and scale up technology business,” LeVine concluded.

Made for innovation Following LeVine’s announcement, Assistant City Manager Seth Yurman commented on why the Metro Atlanta community has attracted global business leaders. With a little more than 1,600 square miles, Yurman explained why Peachtree Corners is so special. “We’ve got 45,000 residents, between 35,000 and 45,000 jobs—so a pretty good population, pretty good peachtreecornerslife

job ratio as well,” he said. He added that Peachtree Corners is the hub for multinational corporations, as well as the headquarters of large U.S. corporations. “Way before the city of Peachtree corners got established, there was some momentum here. So, Technology Park started flourishing. Then residential development happened because you have businesses people want to live close by,” he added.

I didn’t realize that we were a proxy for this kind of a market. and without hesitation, they said, ‘Oh, we love what you’re doing here.’

A desirable city to work and live

Mike Mason nett,” said Yurman. “Not only was there a new city, but it was incorporated with the knowledge and the city council that was elected at the time, many of which are still on council ten years later,” he continued. “[They] had a vision, especially the mayor, to turn this place into a technology hub to leverage this asset we have here [with] Technology Park and kind of take it to the next level,” he explained.

Curiosity Lab breathes new life into Technology Park About three years ago, Curiosity

Lab became an economic driver for the city. “At that time and still at this time, the technology surrounding electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, connectivity, mobility, Internet of Things, 5G and CB 2x are what we’ve been looking at,” said Yurman. “You’ve heard of Silicon Valley; we’re ‘Silicon Orchard.’ We wanted to create this kind of vibe here,” he said. Besides being a business incubator and a friendly environment for growth and development, Curiosity Lab is an economic development generator.

THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

THE HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL

JANUARY 9 – 14 FOX THEATRE BroadwayinAtlanta.com

©Disney

It was in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s when the residential side of Peachtree Corners started to take off. With about seven miles of frontage to the Chattahoochee River, the natural beauty was another incentive to live there. A desire to keep the best and brightest graduates from Georgia Tech and other local schools prompted leaders to support the original Technology Park and keep it growing along with other industries in the area. “The city still didn’t come around until 2012. So, a lot of this was happening in unincorporated Gwin-

These businesses don’t pay for the services at Curiosity Lab, but they stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, purchase goods and services from retailers in the area and perhaps decide to stay. They’ll need to find a home and an office. It’s a win for everyone. “When you think of Curiosity Lab, it’s not just this building. It’s the five-kilometer test track. It’s all the components on pretty much every light pole in here as you’re driving out,” said Yurman. “This entire ecosystem is the lab, and we’re looking to expand it.” There are plans to increase the 25,000-square-foot building to accommodate even more innovation and collaboration. “The folks that come here and invent stuff are the smart people. We provide the canvas, the ecosystem and the sandbox where those people can come and play. And so that’s kind of our goal here,” said Yurman. “We want economic activity. We love for companies to be like, ‘I want to be close to that.’ … We want folks here. Our pitch to you all is to spread the word,” he stated. ■

ON SALE NOW! DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

NOURISH

New, Fast Casual Tex-Mex Restaurant Capital Tacos Has Something for Every Taste

John Kenly, Manager

t’s no secret that Peachtree Corners residents, like most Southerners, enjoy well-prepared, flavorful fare. You could make that argument for anybody anywhere, but when one is challenged to “put a little South in their mouth,” expectations are high. That’s why bland food won’t cut it. And that’s why Capital Tacos is a welcome addition to the area.

A thriving franchise The corner taco shop turned nationally awarded Tex-Mex restaurant fran-

By Arlinda Smith Broady

chise, got its start in 2013 in Tampa, FL. Urged on by locals who’ve visited shops in other states such as Florida, North Carolina and Colorado, the owners brought their scratch-made, innovative flavors to the Peach State with a Johns Creek restaurant that opened in the spring. Its newest eatery here in Peachtree Corners opened this fall. “We thought there was a kind of a quality of Tex-Mex inventiveness in fast casual dining that wasn’t really out there yet,” said Josh Luger, co-founder of Capital Tacos. “10 years ago, there was Chipotle

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

starting to rise up in the fast casual markets and Taco Bell had been around and has proven the popularity of Mexican food, but we thought we’d elevate those basic flavors that people like … and blend Mexican and American flavors, cuisines and proteins. There’s a ton to work with there,” he explained. There are currently 14 restaurants in four states, with more in the southeast and across the country on the horizon.

Unique flavors for unique cities The brand offers signature flavors at its locations. Capital Tacos did its research because, in metro Atlanta, the signature flavor is lemon pepper. “We kind of reimagined what we do with the research,” said Luger. “We created our own version of the sauce and put it on a fried shrimp taco – it’s very creative, very neat.” The Lemon Wet Pepper Taco was unveiled as part of a digital pop-up last year and was promptly named ‘Dish of The Week’ by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

The Capital Tacos spin on the Atlanta classic features fried shrimp coated in garlic butter, topped with a signature creamy slaw, grilled onions and buffalo ranch, as well as its own lemon pepper seasoning mix. “It’s been our top-selling taco in Atlanta since we launched. It’s not in our Florida stores,” said Luger. “That’s what we do. We really do believe in serving folks and working backward on what they want.” Utilizing a real kitchen where food is prepared from scratch allows the restaurant to provide the variety that metro Atlanta craves. “Our menu is carefully crafted to provide that diversity no matter what age you are, what your flavor profile is, what time of day or week it is, what your appetite is, what your dietary preferences are. And that is what I think is unique in the Mexican and Tex Mex space,” said Luger. “We really want to be inclusive. There literally is something for everyone,” he said enthusiastically. Unlike many places that serve Mexican or Tex-Mex fare, Capital Tacos

peachtreecornerslife

Far left opposite page, Capital Taco Right, the recent soft opening of Capital Taco; left, to right, Louis E. Svehla, Communications Director for the City of Peachtree Corners; Shanley Cortez, Capital Tacos Operating Partner; Chris and Mark, Capital Tacos Corporate Directors; and Margie Asef, former chairperson of Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. Photos courtesy of City of Peachtree Corners

hasn’t forgotten its vegan and vegetarian customers. A protein called “Naked Beast” is made with marinated braised tofu. Another dish called “Cauliflower Dreamin” features fried cauliflower as the star and can be made into a taco, burrito, salad, rice bowl and more.

Come for the food, stay for the fun Once the explosive flavors pull you in, Capital Tacos doesn’t stop there. Part of its corporate strategy is to be an asset to the communities they serve. “The core of what we do is food, but it’s really about the experience. It’s about being able to interact with the people who bring that food,” said Luger. “We have an open kitchen. We want you to see what we’re doing, smell

what we’re doing, and ultimately taste what we’re doing and hear that sizzle off the grill,” he added. But it goes further than that. Even though Capital Tacos has online ordering for carryout, it prides itself on being an interactive and family-friendly space for those who want to dine in. “We want to be great at everything, and if people are going to come into the store, we want to give them a reason to do it,” said Luger. There are retro pinball machines that don’t cost anything to play. (No digging for quarters, mom and dad.) There are chalkboard walls where kids can do their own drawings and there are meals explicitly designed for kids. “We really want to be a place where folks can bring their kids and have a good time or bring their friends and … get a salad or tacos for lunch or … a

family meal for a Friday night dinner,” Luger added. If all that wasn’t enough to make you stop in, the staff regularly bakes fresh cookies and passes them out. “We’re happy to give an experience that’s a little bit different -- from the food and the experience. And that’s really what we’re about,” Luger added.

Eager to be a good neighbor “We humbly submit we have the best Tex Mex out there, but we also believe that’s not enough when you go to a community. Maybe some folks serve very good Tex Mex, but people love them because they’re a great part of the community, and that’s what you’re up against,” said Luger. “You’ve got to show folks that you not only can operate with good food, but there are other reasons to support the business,” he said.

Capital Tacos has already begun to form deep community ties by serving free meals to medical staff and first responders in the area. It is looking to sponsor spirit nights with local schools and provide catering and vending for local events. It already has a food truck agreement with Kettlerock Brewing. “That’s part of the localization approach we take,” said Luger. “What is the event of the year in Peachtree Corners? What is the thing that’s needed most? How do we become a part of that?” ■

Visit Capital Tacos in Peachtree Corners 5270 Peachtree Pkwy Unit 117A Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678-292-6419

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Taichi Bubble Tea Opens on Peachtree Parkway PLATTERS

GYROS SALADS ...and More Shah’s Halal Food

N OW O P E N

5450 Peachtree Parkway

I N P E AC H T R E E C O R N E R S 5450 Peachtree Parkway, Suite B Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

ORDER ONLINE

ShahsHalalFood.com

By Peachtree Corners Magazine Staff The first Taichi Bubble Tea opened in 2015 in Rochester, NY, and has since exploded in popularity across the United States. Now, with 40 locations (and more on the way), the brand has added Peachtree Corners to its list of stores. Located at 6135 Peachtree Pkwy Suite 200, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, near Aldi, Taichi Bubble Tea aims to bring the community the best bubble tea, healthy poke bowls and tasty ramen to everyone. Already, the location has amassed over 50 Google reviews and boasts a 4.8-star rating. In her review, local guide Francesca Clemenceau writes: “The ramen was very good and so was the bubble tea! Affordable, nutritious and delicious! And very quick service.” Connect with your family and friends while enjoying delicious drinks and food at Taichi Bubble Tea. For more information, contact 678-691-3577.

NOW OPEN

IN PEACHTREE CORNERS Fresh Roasted Coffee Breakfast Sandwiches Pastries & Desserts Deli Sandwiches & Sides Corporate Catering 5005 Peachtree Parkway, Suite #820, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 | 470-282-3349 HOURS: Monday - Saturday: 7:30 am–6:00 pm | Closed Sunday

www.henrisbakery.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

PLATTERS FULL BAR & PATIO SEATING

SANDWICHES

Ultimate Restaurant & Bar Experience in Peachtree Corners

Atlanta's Best Authentic Persian Cuisine BEST BBQ IN ATLANTA

AUTHENTIC SLOW COOKED BBQ Moe’s Original BBQ smokes meat fresh daily.

Gift Card Deals Bonus

$20 $10 Bonus

on $100 Purchase

Holiday Catering

Dine in • take out • delivery Reservations: 770.559.8799

Packages Available We serve up a tasty Southern BBQ experience. We look forward to serving you at your Holiday Celebration this year.

on $50 Purchase

Please present coupon at time of purchase.

MOESORIGINALBBQ.COM PEACHTREE CORNERS • 5005 Peachtree Parkway NW, Suite 810 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 • 770.696.2631

6385 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners

dibargrill.com

Hours

Mon–Thurs, Sun: 11am–9pm Fri–Sat: 11am–10pm

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

AB Fancy Food Mart Joins Corners Court Shopping Center By Peachtree Corners Magazine Staff The specialty foods sector, accounting for approximately 22% of total grocery sales, is poised for significant growth this year and is projected to exceed $200 billion, according to Lockwood Consulting. So, it is not a surprise that AB Fancy Food Mart is set to be the newest addition to the retail complex at Corners Court Shopping Center located at 3380 Holcomb Bridge Road. Suite 4 is currently undergoing renovations to accommodate this food store, with a footprint spanning 1,197 square feet. Nicolas Murr of Jay Maa Meldi LLC owns the space nestled between New A-Life Tropical Market and the Dream African Hair Braiding within the complex.

Giulia Bakery Begins Work The decision to move on to a new chapter in life can be a difficult one, because it’s not just when- it’s where. But with a thriving community where you’re cared about, not just for, we make that decision a little easier through Life, your way.™ This holiday season, give the gift of peace of mind by securing exceptional senior living for you or your loved one.

Now Touring!

Giulia, a captivating new Italian-inspired pasticceria and bakery, is beginning to take share at The Forum Peachtree Corners, bringing a slice of Italy to the heart of the community. Named after the Italian word for ‘youth’, Giulia promises to deliver an authentic and youthful vibe infused with traditional Italian charm. This bakery aims to charm with its array of handcrafted pastries, breads, and sweets, all made with the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. The décor will create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a morning espresso or a leisurely afternoon snack. ■

OFF

On Dine-In Orders $30 or more

(Sundays - Thursdays: Dine-In ONLY)

10595 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097

*Note: Applicable to Food Orders Only, Excludes Beverages. Valid Only at Peachtree Corners Location Expires: Jan 31, 2024

ThreeDollarCafe.com

6050 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 100 • Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Preserving Our Tree Canopy: “No, We Don’t Let Developers Cut Down Trees and not Replant Them”

Recently, a long-time citizen told me they loved what we were doing in the City, but they wished we wouldn’t “let developers just cut down trees and not replant them.” After taking a little time to explain that the statement wasn’t accurate, I realized that we’ve done a poor job of communicating about the City’s tree ordinances. To provide clarification, let’s talk about our tree canopy. It’s a bit technical but bear with me. Tree canopy is a percentage measurement that describes the layers of leaves and limbs that shelter the ground when viewed from above. The canopy is typically thought of as the top of the trees that help shelter and shade habitat below and moderate ground surface temperatures. Many suburban areas have a canopy between 30% and 60%, with the City of Peachtree Corners being higher than average in the upper 40s. It is commonly necessary for existing trees to be removed from the buildable areas of new developments, but in these cases, the tree canopy is preserved and often supplemented in other areas of the site. The city’s tree replacement requirements typically result in more and better-quality trees being replanted than originally existed on the site. The land used to construct many large and established neighborhoods in the city, such as Neely Farm, Amberfield, and Peachtree Station, was originally clear-cut during the construction phase of the project only to be supplemented at strategic locations with the replanted hardwoods that have matured into what you see today. As these newly planted trees mature, they often provide an increase in canopy compared to what was existing prior to development. As a result, the tree canopy within the city will continue to increase when assessed over time. This can be seen when looking at aerial photos over the years showing older developments with mature trees and comparing them to the pre-development tree coverage. The City’s tree ordinance governs how developers must treat our tree canopy. Here’s a basic overview of the process: ■ The intent of the tree ordinance is to ensure that a maximum number of trees remain or are replaced in a development. ■ There is a tree density standard that defines the specific number and size of trees that must be preserved or replanted to maintain the tree canopy. ■ The city emphasizes preservation so trees that are not removed count more than a planted tree of the same size. ■ Developers must submit a tree preservation and replacement plan prepared by an accredited tree professional that meets the tree density standard. ■ The City has the authority to stop work on a site and issue hefty fines where tree removal or damage occurs in violation of the approved tree preservation or replacement plan.

■ The City has a “Tree Bank” for developers to pay into if tree density requirements are not met due to a documented hardship (like not enough space on the site). ■ The funds in the Tree Bank are used by the city to plant trees on city-owned properties and rights of way. It’s understandable that some citizens have the impression that lots of trees are being cut down and are not being replaced. Development takes time, and it takes even longer for trees to grow. However, here are some facts on trees: ■ Since 2019, there have been over 5,000 trees planted on the development sites that received a land disturbance permit (LDP). ■ That’s an average of ~1,000 trees being planted per year through LDPs. Add in the previous seven years PTC has been incorporated and that extrapolates to ~12,000 trees planted. ■ There are an additional 1,100 trees that have been approved for planting through an LDP but have not yet gone into the ground. They will be planted or installed when current projects progress to the final landscape phase. ■ Waterside alone is required to replant ~1,400 trees, about half of which have already been planted. Waterside’s canopy calculation is ultimately required to be 60%, meaning that when the planted trees reach maturity, 60% of an aerial view of Waterside will be tree canopy. Peachtree Corners is proud to be a Tree City USA community. The city first received this designation in 2016 and has been recertified by an independent evaluation team from the Arbor Day Foundation every year since. With this designation, the City is recognized for having a strong tree ordinance, staff dedicated to tree protection, and funds dedicated specifically to the planting of trees. As a Tree City USA community, Peachtree Corners believes greatly in the importance of trees. As we move into fall and winter, and the leaves have fallen, we can sometimes see issues with our trees that we could not see when they were in full bloom. During the fall and winter months, the City receives an increase in calls ranging from fallen trees, dead and/ or hazardous trees, or tree debris that has fallen due to rain, wind, or ice. It is for this reason that the City has codes that address all these scenarios. City staff are also glad to meet with you on your property to provide guidance on trees. Our tree canopy is very important to us, and I hope this clarifies your understanding of how the City handles trees and development.

Stay safe, Mike Mason, Mayor

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

Mike Mason, Mayor

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

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

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

City of Peachtree Corners Swears In New Marshals During their November 14 City Council Meeting, Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason swore in the City’s new City Marshals. The incoming officials are Chief Marshal Edward Restrepo, Deputy Chief Marshal Johnnie L. Bing, Jr., and Captain Henry A. Mesa. The City Marshal Program is a non-emergency initiative to bridge the city and the Gwinnett County Police Department (GCPD), which will continue its primary policing duties. The City Marshals Department will handle specific city needs. This includes addressing crime hotspots, increasing patrol presence, and community interaction. They will also test and deploy new law enforcement technologies, in collaboration with Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners. The Peachtree Corners City Marshals are POST Certified and can perform all duties of any officer in Georgia. They are trained to handle criminal activities and will coordinate with Gwinnett County Police when needed. Residents and local businesses can directly contact the Marshal’s Office for extra patrols, crime prevention education, and community program participation. For more information, visit the City Marshal webpage at www.peachtreecornersga.gov/389/City-Marshal.

City Council Recognizes First Female Peachtree Corners Eagle Scout During their regular Council Meeting, the Peachtree Corners City Council

demonstration of citizenship, leader-

necessary to become an Eagle Scout are

achievement, commended for her com-

ship, and personal responsibility; and

the same ones needed to achieve the

mitment to Scouting, and congratulat-

highest level of citizenship in a commu-

ed for being awarded the rank of Eagle

nity;

Scout.

recognized Peachtree Corners’ first-ev-

WHEREAS, Sophia Lee, a senior at

er Female Eagle Scout, Norcross High

Pinecrest Academy has met all of the

School Senior, Sophia Lee.

Eagle Scout requirements including

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PRO-

A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY

performing the work associated with

CLAIMED by the Mayor and Council

OF PEACHTREE CORNERS, GEORGIA

Pinecrest’s 2015 senior class gift to the

of the City of Peachtree Corners that

RECOGNIZING AND CONGRATULAT-

school, a devotional area with a statue

Sophia Lee is hereby recognized for her

ING SOPHIA LEE FOR ACHIEVING

of Our Lady of Victory placed near the

THE RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT

athletic field; and

WHEREAS, Eagle Scout is the high-

WHEREAS, the City of Peachtree

est rank in Scouting and requires a

Corners recognizes that the qualities

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

peachtreecornersga

PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

City of Peachtree Corners Trail Updates PTC 22-04 Corners Connector Burdell Branch GDOT Project Number and Title: 0019213 Gwinnett, Innovation District Trail from Engineering to Woodhill-LCI Funding Received Use: Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program – Urban (>200k) (ARC) – LCI Set-aside for Implementation Amount Received: $480k for Preliminary Engineering Funding Source: Federal CFDA#20.205-Highway Planning and Construction Cluster Local Match: $120k Project Description: The proposed trail is approximately 1 mile long through a wooded area near a tributary to Crooked Creek, running parallel to SR 141/ Peachtree Parkway. The trail will start at Engineering Drive and end at Woodhill Drive, crossing Parkway Lane as well as Jay Bird Alley. Both the start and end termini will connect to the City’s existing Multi-use Trail System. Project purpose/justification: The trail will be a great avenue to expand the City’s trail network and provide a safe transportation alternative connecting numerous businesses, offices, and residents. The trail can also be utilized for recreational purposes and provides an aesthetically appealing nature walk for residents all over the city and region. Current Schedule: Engineering underway, ROW – FY 2024, Utility – FY 2025, Construction – FY 2025 Programmed fees: ROW-$100k, Utilities $0, Construction - $4 million

PTC 23-05 Crooked Creek Trail Phase I GDOT Project Number and Title: 0019799 Gwinnett, Peachtree Corners – Crooked Creek Trail from Spalding Drive to Peachtree Corners Circle Funding Received Use: Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-aside – Urbanized Areas with Populations over 200,000 Amount Received: $1 million for Preliminary Engineering Funding Source: Federal CFDA#20.205-Highway Planning and Construction Cluster Local Match: $250k Project Description: The proposed trail is approximately 2.5 miles through a wooded area along Crooked Creek running parallel to SR 140/Holcomb Bridge Road. The trail will start at Spalding Drive where it ties into an existing multiuse path and connects to Sandy Springs’ Crooked Creek Park. The trail will then continue along Crooked Creek and end at Peachtree Corners Circle where many of the city’s multi-family residential housing options are located. Project purpose/justification: The trail will be a great avenue to expand the City’s trail network and add connectivity to the region. The trail not only provides an aesthetically appealing scenic recreational amenity, but it also provides a safe transportation alternative connecting multi-family residents to businesses and churches. Current Schedule: PE-FY 2024, ROW – FY 2026, Utility – FY 2027, Construction – FY 2028 Programmed fees: ROW-$5 million, Utilities - $0, Construction - $8.75 million

Current Status: Under concept development to determine necessary environmental requirements for final design.

Current Status: Under procurement for an engineering consultant

Future Plan: Propose the project for the ARC’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) which allocates federal funds for use in the region. The TIP has a call for a project every 2 years with the next one in Spring 2024. The city plans to propose the project to receive federal fund-

Future Plan: Propose a project for the ARC’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) which allocates federal funds for use of the region. The TIP has a call for a project every 2 years with the next one being Spring 2024. The city plans to propose the project to receive federal funding for the cost of construction.

ing for the construction cost.

Corners Connector Burdell Branch

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

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Keep Autumn Leaves off the Ground and out of the Storm Drain How do you handle and

it can also impair our water resources.

dispose of the leaves that

Leaves in the stormwater system begin

fall in your yard? For a lot

to decay, releasing nutrients that encour-

of people, the easy solu-

age algae blooms and therefore, depletes

tion to clear their lawn

oxygen content in water and suffocates

from the influx of leaves

aquatic life.

is by raking or blowing the leaves into the street and

Advice: Never blow or dump leaves,

therefore, directly into a

grass clippings, needles, and other yard

stormwater inlet such as

waste into the street, stormwater drain,

a catch basin or curb inlet.

drainage ditch, or surface water. Instead, dispose of yard waste by bagging them

What people do not know

as solid waste. Alternatively, you can re-

is that leaves, and land-

cycle this organic yard matter by using a

scaping trimmings, clog

mulching mower, adding it to your com-

stormwater systems, pre-

post bin, or spreading it as a protective

venting water from enter-

mulch. Don’t wait until after the storm to

ing the drainage system.

do your yard maintenance.

The redirection of the wa-

It is that beautiful time of the year again.

sonal change, the deciduous trees begin

The season of Autumn is when the tree

to shed their leaves and consequently,

leaves change from green to vibrant

bestow more yard work upon every

reds, oranges, and yellows. With this sea-

household’s lawn maintenance designee.

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

ter flow, by preventing the

Just remember – no one wants to be the

stormwater runoff from

one responsible for street flooding in

entering its designed system, can cause

their neighborhood. Do the right thing

localized flooding and damage to prop-

and keep our storm drains free and our

erty and infrastructure. Not only can

waterways clear!

improper disposal cause flooding, but

peachtreecornersga

PtreeCorners

PARC AT DULUTH...

Home for the Holidays!

Imagine a staff

dedicated to extraordinary levels of hospitality, service and care

Imagine an engaging

lifestyle of stylish comfort

Imagine a genuine

community of neighbors and friends

Exceptional Senior Living! INDEPENDENT LIVING | PERSONAL CARE

Parc at Duluth

3315 Peachtree Ind. Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096

770.622.6880 parcatduluth.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BECOME THE WINE CONNOISSEUR YOUR WIFE HOPED SHE’D MARRY. A great sense of humor can only take you so far. Let our wine experts guide you through our extensive selection for the perfect bottle or visit cornersatl.com

5 7 3 0 P E A C H T R E E P A R K W AY, P E A C H T R E E C O R N E R S , G E O R G I A 3 0 0 9 2

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

(470) 242-3939

peachtreecornerslife

RELENTLESS COMPASSIONATE LEADER

Georgia Trial Lawyer

Seeking justice for injured families and individuals everywhere. Brandon Smith Law leverages its experience, hustle, and tact to help make a right out of a wrong. In your corner throughout the process.

BRANDON SMITH, ESQ

A Respected Attorney with Experience in The Industry ¡Hablamos Español! Follow us on Instagram

@BrandonSmithLaw

5425 Peachtree Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678-604-8314 | BrandonSmithLawFirm.com

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

c. 678.464.4929 | KellyKim@ansleyre.com

Thank you for a great 2023 $62M IN SALES & 149 TRANSACTIONS

NO.1 LARGE TEAM Companywide

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

INTOWN

EAST COBB

M A R I E T TA

Equal Housing Opportunity

NORTH

S U WA N E E