Peachtree Corners Magazine - Feb/March 2023

COME SHOP AT CORNERS TO SEE WHY EVERYBODY LOVES ROB.

experience a new approach to spirits

First Lady Debbie Mason

PEACHTREECORNERS

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER RICO FIGLIOLINI

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

EDITOR EMERITUS KATHY DEAN

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS

julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE

RICO FIGLIOLINI

Publisher & Executive Editor

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

RITA FIGLIOLINI

Editorial Consultant

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

JULIE DAVIS

Account Executive

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

HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR

Graphic Designer

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

PEACHTREECORNERS

PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC.

P. O. BOX 923207

Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

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

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

February/March 2023 issue

Volume 5 Number 25

©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

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.

RICHARD PHILLIPS

Photographer

Richard Phillips, an avid photographer since high school, is now a professional photographer. He specializes in casual or formal portraits, engagement photos, and small weddings as he photographs our most beautiful world. rlphillipsphotography.com

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

Contributing Editor

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

KATHY DEAN

Editor Emeritus

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

PATRIZIA WINSPER

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

GEORGE HUNTER

Photographer

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

NATHAN DEEN

Writer

Nathan Deen is a freelance journalist and content marketer, author and aspiring screenwriter. Nathan has written for Savannah Morning News, The Brunswick News and the Bayonet and Saber.

FIRST UP

Yielded Men

Fridays weekly, 7-8 a.m.

Moe’s Original Barbecue

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

“Light Is Hope” Juried Exhibition and Artists’ Talk

Saturday, February 25, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch 5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners 30092 | gwinnettpl.org

Admission: free

One hundred photos were selected under the theme “Light Is Hope” for the Peachtree Corners Photography Club’s first juried exhibition. You will see them around the branch starting in mid-January. Hear from the artists about their experience in making the photos, and the decisions they made when submitting to the exhibition.

Theatre

Peachtree Corners Photography Club Group Meet Up

Thursdays, February 9 and March 9 6:45-8:15 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 30092 pcphotoclub.org

Meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at Atlanta Tech Park and/or online. Photographers of all skill levels are welcomed at 6:15 p.m. for social time.

LENCKE THEATER

portunity elsewhere. They need to decide whether to hang on, adapt or let go.

Madagascar Jr.

March 24-26

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

Based on the DreamWorks movie, Madagascar Jr. follows the friends as they escape from the New York’s Central Park Zoo and journey to King Julien’s Madagascar.

Little Women

March 30-April 1

Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners

wesleyanschool.org

Wesleyan High School students perform a musical based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott.

peachtreecornerslife

a Wolf Players Production of

Author: Kate Hamill

Adapted from the novel by Louisa May Alcott Directed by Stephanie Simmons

5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com/events

Scan QR for more information ►

Galentine’s Day at the Forum

Monday, February 13, 5-7 p.m. Round up your girl gang for a Galentine’s celebration with treats, deals and raising a glass with your gals. Featured retailers’ offers include: 20% off the whole store + a complimentary goodie bag from fab’rik; a complimentary swag item from Providence Women’s Healthcare; and 15% off all services (reservation recommended) and complimentary champagne and light bites from Sugarcoat Beauty.

Luck of the Forum

Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights

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

Candy Heart Coding

Thursday, February 9, 3-4 p.m.

Kids ages 8+ celebrate Black History Month and explore binary code. They’ll learn about pioneering Black computer scientists with a fun candy experiment.

Celebrate Black History Month: Tell Your Story

Tuesday, February 14, 1 p.m.

Adults are invited to share their memories about different historic moments in the journey of African American experience.

Celebrating Katherine Johnson: NASA

Computer

February 18, 3-4 p.m.

Admission: free

Children will learn about the remarkable life of Katherine Johnson, one of the women at NASA, featured in the Hidden Figures story, who helped put a man in space.

Wearable Circuits: Glow Pin

Saturday, March 4, 2-3 p.m. Sew with conductive thread and tiny electric components to make a glowing pin. Registration is required.

Celebrating Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Saturday, March 11, 3-4 p.m. Find out about the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

Pi Day Celebration

Thursday, March 16, 6-8 p.m.

Feeling lucky? Stop in for a purely gold St. Patrick’s Day celebration at Luck of The Forum, featuring music, dancing and Irish flair. More details coming soon.

Bunny Hop at the Forum

Saturday, April 1, 10-11 a.m.

Stop in at Peterbrooke Chocolatier for a morning of Easter fun at the Bunny Hop. It kicks off with outdoor games and crafts with the Easter Bunny, followed by an egg hunt.

Important Dates

FEBRUARY

Black History Month

Groundhog Day | February 2

Lincoln’s Birthday | February 12

Valentine’s Day | February 14

President’s Day | February 21

MARCH

Women’s History Month

Ash Wednesday | March 2

Purim | March 17

St. Patrick’s Day | March 17

A Date with a New Book Using NoveList

Tuesday, February 21, 6-7 p.m. See how to use the digital resource NoveList to help you find a new book to read and love.

Sewing Basics

Wednesday, February 22, 5-6 p.m. Not sure how to use a sewing machine? This program is for you! Registration required.

Doggie Tales

Saturday, March 4, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Children ages 5 to 10 can practice reading with a friendly dog. They gain confidence and build their reading skills by reading aloud to trained therapy dogs.

Tuesday, March 14, 4-5 p.m. Children will learn about Pi using hands-on activities — and celebrate Albert Einstein’s birthday.

Cricut: Stencils and Cards

Wednesday, March 15, 5-6 p.m. Teens, adults and seniors learn to make stencils and greeting cards with the Cricut Maker.

Science of Dot Art

Saturday, March 18, 10-11 a.m.

Discover dot art and make your own creation.

DIY Weather Vane and Compass

Monday, March 20, 4-5 p.m.

Learn to create and use a DIY weather vane and compass.

Celebrate Women’s History Month: Tell Your Story

Tuesday, March 30, 4 p.m.

In honor of Women’s History Month, attendees will tell about a woman who has inspired them in the past or present and how it has impacted their life.

GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS

gwinnettcounty.com

Kid’s Night: Pizza and Play

Friday, February 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m. OneStop Norcross

5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross

678-225-5400

Cost: $12 for Gwinnett residents, $24 for non-residents.

It’s kid’s only, ages 7-12, for pizza, board games and brain teasers, as their parents enjoy a night out.

Mardi Gras Bingo

Luncheon

Wednesday, February 15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center

4758 Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross 678-277-0920

Cost: $10 for Gwinnett residents, $19 for non-residents

Adults aged 50+ are invited to a traditional New Orleans-style lunch and Bingo. Register by Feb. 9.

Adventure Days Out Camp

February 13, 16, 17 and 20 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center

4758 Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross, 678-277-0920

Lucky Shoals Park

4651 Britt Rd., Norcross, 678-277-0860

Cost: $18 a day per camper

Kids, ages 5-12, will have an amazing experience trying new games, exploring new skills, making new friends and having fun. Campers should wear closed-toe shoes and pack two healthy snacks, a lunch and a labeled water bottle.

Exhibits and Events

Winter Warmth, a collaborative show

Through February 25

Fine Art, With Love, a juried show March 2-April 15

Meet the Artist of the Month

February 22 — Larry Hall

4:30-6:30 p.m.

45 South Café

45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross

Opportunities

Figure and Portrait Study Sessions

Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m.

Cost: $16 members, $22 non-members; package prices available

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

Evening Open Studio

Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., starting February 15

Cost: $5 members, $10 non-members

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

Studios

Daytime Open Studio

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

Cost: $5 members, $10 nonmembers

Moderator: Anne Labaire, labaireart@gmail.com

Open Critique Sessions

Monday, March 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Thursdays, February 23 and March 30, 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cost: $5 cash or check

Moderator: Larry Hall, Leader, larry.hall@yahoo.com

Bring one or more works to an upbeat, relaxed, friendly discussion led by an experienced instructor/artist. Everyone is invited to contribute constructive help and observations.

Classes

Selling Yourself as an Artist Part 2

Wednesdays, February 15 and 22, March 1 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost: $135 members, $155 nonmembers

Instructor: Larry Hall, larry.hall@yahoo.com

With the end in mind: continuing practice describing your work to clients and patrons with including

your 30 second ‘elevator pitch’, artist’s biography and statement.

Depth with Dimensional Grounds in Acrylic

Saturday, February 18 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: $120, includes all supplies

Instructor: Micah Goguen, micahgoguenart@gmail.com

Cost: $135 members, $155 non-members

Instructor: Larry Hall, larry.hall@yahoo.com

Learn and practice painting techniques for a more ‘painterly’ effect, such as deciding what to focus on and what to simplify, using more decisive brush strokes, being less stressed. Oil and acrylic painters are welcome.

Ethereal Monoprint Landscape in Acrylic

Saturday, March 4 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost: $60, includes materials and use of supplies

Instructor: Micah Goguen, micahgoguenart@gmail.com

Get Looser in your Painting

Wednesdays, March 8, 15, 22 and 29 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL AT ONE HEART CHURCH

VBS 2023 is all about Twists & Turns™, a fantastical celebration of games of all kinds. Kids will play their way through VBS in fun locations such as the Bible Study Game Room, Wild Card Crafts, Multi-player Missions, and Skip Ahead Snacks! But more importantly, they’ll see Jesus through the eyes of one of His closest friends and discover that trusting Jesus as Savior and following Him changes the game entirely! Following Jesus changes everything!

Register before April 15 and get a free T-shirt. To register use the QR code or go to https://oneheartchurch.org/ministries/family/kidsevents/

When: Monday, June 5th - Friday, June 9th

Where: One Heart Church, 706 N. Peachtree Street, Norcross, GA 30071 Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Who: Pre-K- 5th Grade

Using Strong Color in Your Painting

Wednesdays, March 8, 15, 22 and 29 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Cost: $135 members, $155 non-members

Instructor: Larry Hall, larry.hall@yahoo.com

Freshen up your painting style using strategically placed strong colors and practice applying through creative painting assignments. Oil and acrylic painters are welcome.

Peachtree Corners Launches

Nonprofit Emergency Relief Grant Program

The City of Peachtree Corners has launched a Nonprofit Emergency Relief Grant Program that uses ARPA funding the city received as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, signed into law in March 2021, the city received funding in two disbursements. This program will be used to distribute funding to qualified nonprofit service providers who assist residents of Peachtree Corners with needs such as:

■ early childhood learning services,

■ literacy,

■ childcare,

■ mental health counseling,

■ housing assistance,

■ utility assistance and

■ food insecurity.

“We have worked to ensure the application process is as simple and seamless as possible and will benefit those residents that need our help the most,” said Cory Salley, the city’s Finance Director. “With funding from the federal government, there are restrictions on how the funds may be allocated and specific requirements that must be followed to receive funding. The details are included in the applications which are accessible through the city’s website.”

This program differs from the city’s small business and nonprofit operating grant program 2021 as qualified nonprofits will be required to use the funding to provide direct services to residents. Funding will not be available to nonprofits seeking to replace or bolster operational funding.

“We are very pleased that the city can present this grant program to our nonprofit service providers. It will be the mechanism we use to distribute these monies into the hands of nonprofits who support those who need it the most,” said Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason.

“The council and I believe we must notify our nonprofit service providers of this grant program as soon as possible to distribute the funds as quickly and efficiently as we can,” he added.

Learn more about the program and the corresponding grant application on the City of Peachtree Corners’ dedicated web page, ARPA Nonprofit Emergency Relief Grant, at peachtreecornersga.gov/264/American-Rescue-Plan-Act (or scan the QR code.)

In addition to the application available through the website, and to assist applicants, Peachtree Corners will host a webinar on February 1 at 2 p.m.

The grant application process launched on January 20 and ends on Wednesday, February 22 at 4:30 p.m. For questions, please email grants@ peachtreecornersga.gov.

Peachtree Corners’ First Lady Debbie Mason

Debbie Mason, Peachtree Corners’ first First Lady, passed from this life into the history books on January 4, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. She has been fondly remembered by her friends and family — including her husband of 49 years, Mike Mason, the Mayor of Peachtree Corners; sons, Matt Mason and Nick Mason; and granddaughter, Clara Mason — for her warm smile, infectious sense of humor and intense dedication to her family and community. Debbie put much of her time

in the service of others, whether gathering signatures to get sewers installed in a neighborhood or helping start and organize the Peachtree Corners Festival. City officials released a statement that included: “To many in the community, Debbie Mason represented the best of Peachtree Corners.”

Her page on the Cromwell Brothers Funeral Home website lists many of Debbie’s accomplishments and some of the organizations she was involved in. It states: “If Debbie Mason believed in a cause, she could be counted on to work toward it tirelessly. Debbie was known to her family as a full-time

mom, part-time Wonder Woman and occasional miracle worker. To her friends and community, she was a professional volunteer, fearless leader and perpetual truthteller.”

When she became First Lady of Peachtree Corners, Debbie embraced the role and was committed to “help make memories” in the City. She herself has become one of its brightest and most enduring memories.

Intro and editing by Kathy Dean

Photo by George Hunter

Debbie Mason in her garden. The photo was shot in July 2021 for our feature article “ Stay Positive, Debbie Mason’s Journey with a Daunting Diagnosis.”

Photo by Tracey Rice

My husband Bob and I had the pleasure of volunteering with Mike and Debbie Mason for at least two decades. We worked alongside them volunteering with middle and high school drama projects and volunteered as chaperones for the 2004 NHS drama trip to NYC.

She supported Bob’s Crooked Creek clean-up efforts where he served alongside Debbie on the City’s Green Committee. In 2012, Debbie approached me to volunteer with vendor call marketing projects with the Peachtree Corners Festival. Subsequently Debbie asked me to serve as board secretary, capturing meeting minutes and assisting her further in vendor projects. She was an amazing community volunteer all the way around!

Bob and Lori Howard

It is with heavy heart that I say goodbye to our City’s first lady, Debbie Mason. She always had a smile for the camera. From the first time I photographed her, back in 2014, she was always kind and exuberant. Words are not my strength, so I wish to share just a few of my photos.

Ludwig Keck, Photographer

Words cannot express how deeply sorry I was to learn of Debbie’s passing. The thought of not seeing her smiling face again makes me so very sad.

Debbie brought, and leaves behind, a great light and legacy to our City and to all who had the pleasure to know her. I am blessed to have been able to call Debbie my friend and will forever think of her with love in my heart and the memories of her will always bring a smile to my face.

Alan Kaplan

Being a community leader is not an easy task. She faced the conflict between responding to the needs of her family and the collective needs of our community. Debbie was always able to balance these needs and to secure the resources necessary to accomplish the task at hand.

She engaged the support of her family in everything she did and made them a part of the solution. That made her a magnet for any task needed. She not only showed the way, but she made things move. Being friends and neighbors for 38

years, it was a privilege to work together on projects you championed. You will be greatly missed, dear lady, but never forgotten for all the gifts you gave us of time, talent and treasure. Rest in peace.

Lorri Christopher

I first met Debbie early on in researching the City’s history. I’ll never forget her enthusiasm and love for Peachtree Corners, or her razor-sharp memory of the events that culminated in the YES campaign. Mrs. Mason was a true community hero.

Carole Townsend

I met Debbie Mason in February of 2011 when we were brought together by a mutual friend to discuss the idea of organizing a festival for Peachtree Corners. Although neither one of us, nor any of the people we brought into the project, had any idea how to put on a festival, we found a way.

Debbie and I always had a great relationship and not just because of the festival. We learned so much together.

I always admired her work ethic and principals. She taught me “You can’t fix stupid,” and she was sure right about that. I was lucky enough at the 2021 Peachtree Corners Festival to find a plaque from one of our vendors with that very saying, and I got it for her.

Debbie absolutely loved the Peachtree Corners Festival. This photo exemplifies how much fun she and her adoring husband Mike had every year. No one had a bigger smile.

I will always miss her.

Linda O’Connor

Debbie Mason was a great and enthusiastic leader and supporter of the Gwinnett County Public School system during the years her two sons were students in our schools and for many years after they graduated.

As parents in the school system, Debbie and Mike Mason were co-presidents of the Pinckneyville Middle School council, leaders in the development of the Norcross

News Year Eve (2021), Nick Mason with his mom (2022) and Debbie and Mike Mason tour the Peachtree Corners Festival.

High School Foundation for Excellence, and among the parents who went with Mrs. Gina Parish and her student actors to see live theatrical performances in New York City. Whatever the need in the schools, [the mayor and first lady] worked to meet it. They supported scholarships for Norcross High School students through the United Peachtree Corners Civic Association.

They supported the naming of Paul Duke STEM High School and the opportunities provided to Duke students to experience internships with businesses in Norcross and Peachtree Corners.

Debbie Mason served our community in many roles, but never in a more important role that as a supporter of public education for all students and their families in Norcross and Peachtree Corners. We will miss her greatly.

Mary Kay Murphy, Ph.D., District 3 School Board Member

I met Debbie in July 2021 when Rico sent me to take photos of her for a feature article they were writing. She shared her story with me about her recent diagnosis, and her hopes and fears for her future. I felt as if I had always known her.

We enjoyed roaming through her luscious garden and stopping to take pictures as we went. She was wearing a bright green sweater that complemented the colors in the garden perfectly. Her smile was beautiful, and her sense of determination came through in every photo.

It was a very special time, and I had no idea that one of those photos would become what Mike Mason calls her “signature photo.”

Tracey R. Rice

There was no cause too great and no task too small for Debbie Mason. She was always ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work without a thought as to whom would get credit. She was in the foreground when necessary, but also a humble and diligent worker behind the scenes.

Debbie often said, “You can get a lot done if you don’t care who gets the credit.” What she accomplished through the gift of her time and tireless efforts on behalf of our City will live on in perpetuity.

Lewis and Amy Massey

I had the good fortune to interact with Debbie a number of times for a number of different reasons. Debbie was a shining light in our community and meant so much to so many. Debbie was, and always will be, The First Lady of Peachtree Corners!

Gene Witkin

City resident since 1994

Debbie was an incredible individual whose presence lit up every room and created an amazing environment for everyone. We learned at her funeral service that Debbie had an army of resources at her disposal.

But what is remarkable for me was her gift of love that she showered to her team of volunteers — and the community at large. Debbie was generous and gave to us without hesitation whenever we asked. She welcomed us to Peachtree Corners and made us feel like family. I am blessed to have known her and I will forever miss her.

Thank you so much, Debbie Mason. We lost an angel.

Helen Odundo-Wanda, CPA, MBA

I had the privilege and honor of volunteering with Debbie for more than 20 years — UPCCA Board, PTC Tour of Homes and the PTC Yes Campaign. We sat around many tables together. It was a joy to work

For 19 years before Peachtree Corners became a city, the United Peachtree Corners Civic Association (UPCCA) was the de facto government for land use in our area.

Debbie Mason was unquestionably one of the engines in UPCCA that drove our pride of place and quest for our ultimate cityhood in 2012. One of UPCCA’s big successes was to improve the look of the ragged highway medians along Peachtree Parkway. Debbie, herself a consummate gardener, administered that detailed landscape job for six years. She dreamed up the Peachtree Corners Festival, believing deeply that we all needed a space and time to celebrate Peachtree Corners and make memories.

Her thousands of volunteer hours were distributed in so many more places.

Gay Shook

PTC has been my home for my entire life and where we now raise our children. Debbie has been a fixture of Peachtree Corners for many years, and throughout my life, starting at about 15 years old as a freshman in NHS Theatre.

Nick [Mason, Debbie’s son] was a role model for me as an aspiring actor, but more importantly, as a respectful and high-integrity young adult. Over the years, it became more and more obvious where Nick got his kind and charismatic nature.

Debbie was always so supportive of our theatre troop and continued to be a comforting smile and source of inspiration until the end. Her presence will be missed by many and remembered by all.

Sam Hoover, Brazilian Wood Depot

Debbie had many titles, some official and some unofficial, but after wife, mother and grandmother, she was proudest of being the first First Lady of the City of Peachtree Corners.

She and Mike were true partners, and she was instrumental in creating the vibrant community in southwest Gwinnett that became the City of Peachtree Corners in 2012. For the past 10 years, Debbie has supported the development of the City in many ways, both large and small.

Debbie will be missed deeply by the entire PTC community.

Eric Christ, Council Member, Post 2

with her. You knew if Debbie said she was going to do something, she did and gave 110%. And she was an A+ hostess who made the best lasagna. RIP, dear Debbie.

Pat Bruschini

For those of us fortunate enough to know Debbie Mason, it is impossible to overestimate her contributions to our community and city. She was involved at some level with so many worthwhile organizations that make this area such a wonderful place to live. It was my privilege to work with Debbie on the Peachtree Corners

Sam Hoover and his wife Vanessa with Debbie Mason (center) during a Peachtree Corners Fall Festival

Debbie and Mike Mason with former Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux

Festival committee, the festival she helped to found. She was always thinking of ways to make the festival more fun and meaningful for our attendees, vendors and sponsors.

If I had to describe Debbie in one word, it would be “selfless.” She knew so many people in our community and she knew how to get things done. She is truly irreplaceable.

Dave Huffman

The City of Peachtree Corners has lost a shining light. Our first lady, Debbie Mason, lost her battle against cancer, and we lost a great lady. Watching Debbie accomplish goal after goal was not surprising because she had such a positive attitude and a strong belief in others. When she spoke, you were compelled to act.

Many times, I would see Debbie quietly working in the background to do something that would benefit our community. Long before there was a city, and long before there was a title of First Lady, Debbie was working to improve the neighborhoods we love. I remember Saturday mornings, Debbie giving of her time to clean 141.

Anytime Debbie was asked to be involved, she did so with great enthusiasm. Christmas Parades and The Peachtree Corners Festival are both a result of her strong desire to create a better community. There is no question about her love for family, friends, and our city. It was evident in all that she did. She will be missed by all, but her imprint on our hearts and our great city will remain forever.

Nancy Minor

Debbie Mason has had a tremendous impact on the City of Peachtree Corners. She was the type of person who was willing to not only get involved in a project, but also take a leadership position to help it be more successful.

She sacrificed much of her time and effort to bring growth and progress to our community. She did so much for others and had a burning drive to bring about positive change. She was a hard worker and knew how to make things happen!

Debbie was also a great wife, mother and grandmother. She was very devoted to her husband Mike, and it was rare to see one without the other. I’m grateful to have known Debbie and for the positive example she represented to me and many others.

Phil Sadd, Council Member, Post 1

I wish to send my sincere condolences to Mayor Mike Mason. I regret I never got to meet Debbie! Mike Mason is a great mayor and I assume the First Lady of Peachtree Corners was very supportive of her husband and his activities on behalf of Peachtree Corners residents. May Debbie rest in peace!

Clément Desaulniers

Debbie Mason was a person of courage and leadership, who demonstrated a “can do” attitude and a never ending love for her family and friends. Once Debbie set her mind to getting something done, she believed failure was not an option, and she would rally the people and resources around her until she got the job done. Her footprint laid part of the foundation for the City she loved so much. She will be remembered for the love, guidance and support she showed for her family and friends. The Peachtree Corners Community will continue to grow and develop because of the seeds she planted and shared with us all.

Lisa Proctor, President, Sanford Rose Associates –Lake Lanier Islands

Scan the QR code to listen to our podcast interview from 2021. Its about how a simple test, mentioned to her as part of a promise, revealed she had carcinosarcoma, and how that turn of events affected her life and world view.

Photos courtesy of Bob and Lori Howard and Ludwig Keck.

Peachtree Corners Homes Remain Highly Desirable

Over the past few years, the real estate market in the metro Atlanta area has become very strong. A combination of low interest rates and limited available housing have caused home prices

By Kathy Dean

to skyrocket.

While there are signs that things are beginning to taper off, it’s still a very active scene. Interest rates have been bumped up, causing prices to stabilize. However, the tight inventory means that the cost to buy a home remains on the high end, especially in desirable locations like Peachtree Corners.

What’s happening now

“The current trend is a leveling out of the housing market,” said Alan Kaplan, Realtor, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty.

“I see the market, overall, being

less aggressive and more balanced between buyers and sellers,” he continued. “This shift manifests itself primarily in offers providing less aggressive terms and lower propensity for bidding wars for an average property.”

Laura Hayes Reich, Associate Broker with The Terri Hayes Team reports that homes in the area are selling quickly, if they are updated and priced correctly.

“We are still seeing bidding wars on desirable homes as inventory is low,” she said. “There is a large number of buyers who prefer Peachtree Corners due to many factors, including desirable location, lower taxes, award-winning schools, communities that have a wonderful family feel and upper

Photos of local homes courtesy of Terri and Laura Hayes and Alan Kaplan.

Right, Laura and Terri Hayes

Opposite page, Alan Kaplan

Peachtree Corners 2022 Real Estate Trends

scale restaurants at The Forum and Town Center.”

According to Terri Hayes, Broker/Owner of The Terri Hayes Team, there are two distinct groups that are setting the current residential trends.

“You have the 30- to 40-year-old age group with young families who want the community / neighborhood lifestyle with larger homes that are updated or have great bones to be renovated,” she said. “The second group is the empty nesters / baby-boomers whose children are in college or are grown. They want to downsize to a smaller home with upscale amenities similar to the homes they are leaving.”

She added that, due to all the wonderful lifestyle amenities of Peachtree Corners and Southwest Gwinnett, older adults want to stay in the area in downsized, but high quality, homes that are much smaller.

“Detached single-family homes continue to be in high demand

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because of the increasing number of jobs in our community and our excellent schools,” said Brian Johnson, Peachtree Corners City Manager. “As more companies, such as Intuitive Surgical, relocate and grow their work force, single-family homes will be in even shorter supply.”

Rental properties also are in demand, Johnson noted, because many people at different life stages — young adults, empty-nesters, single parents, etc. — don’t want to be homeowners and prefer a managed residential lifestyle.

What to expect in 2023

Johnson predicted that with the limited availability of land and high land costs, “…the trend will likely be for smaller units in both the ownership and rental product categories. This means more townhomes and condos instead of the traditional single-family detached homes on 1/3 of an acre.”

He said he also expects to see more mixed-use developments that integrate the living and working environments as more people want to do both in the same location.

“Ultimately, the city’s goal is to increase the housing stock in a managed, thoughtful way,” Johnson said. “To that end, we’ll be having community meetings — the first one is scheduled for February 23 at 7 p.m. in the Community Chest room at City Hall— to get citizen input on the best way to accommodate the city’s future housing needs.”

The metro Atlanta residential housing market should continue to outperform the National Housing market, Kaplan said, largely due to the demand for housing.

“This demand is fueled by strong population growth — 14% in the last decade — as a result of Atlanta being one of the more affordable metro cities on the national level

for cost of living and housing,” he added.

He said that a big draw is the strong employment sector, as companies see Atlanta as a great market for their businesses. “I don’t see significant shifts in the current trend,” Kaplan said. “While interest rates are elevated from where they were a year ago, they are still historically low.”

He also foresees an enduring high demand for older, lesser expensive neighborhoods, which are particularly attractive to first time homebuyers.

“There will also be high demand for these price points as high rental rates outpace mortgage rates,” Kaplan stated. “The high rental cost will likely result in many people shifting from the rental to homebuyer market, further putting pressures and demand on homes with more affordable price points.”

As demand for housing in the Peachtree Corners market continues to outpace supply, and the shortage of new medium to large buildable tracts of land, Kaplan expects to see an increased need for dense “for sale” multi-family developments.

Hot spots

Johnson reported that the City is driving significant resources to the Holcomb Bridge Road corridor. “Expect to see improvements along Peachtree Corners Circle, which should help to incentivize new residential development and result in upgrades to the existing residential developments in the area,” he said.

The planned improvements to The Forum shopping center should also attract significant attention due to the added residential and hotel component, he noted.

“In addition, the City is coordinating with the owners of The Forum on event management in order to develop activities that will provide the community with entertaining ways to ‘Spend the day in downtown Peachtree Corners’,” Johnson said.

Updated, move-in ready homes are most desirable for many buyers who want ‘no fuss, no muss’ when purchasing a home, particularly with the high cost of remodeling, Laura Hayes Reich said.

“With remodeling costs on the rise and [the increase in time] of getting projects completed, buyers are willing to pay more for homes when everything is all updated,” she said. “All custom-built home

Market figures and data supplied by Alan Kaplan with Atlanta Fine Homes, Sotheby’s International Realty and generated by Trendgrafix

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communities, as well as Waterside — the newest development in Peachtree Corners — have much to offer to all buyers in every age group.”

Don’t hold back on investing in a home

Kaplan said that he often hears that people are considering waiting until interest rates decrease, but he doesn’t advise that.

“Because our housing market continues to appreciate at a strong pace, waiting for a change in interest rates could have a net neutral effect on buying power,” he explained. “While a lower future rate may make borrowing less expensive, the increase in home prices between now and that anticipated

rate change will likely result in little to no change in buying power.”

By buying now, prior to a home’s further appreciation, buyers maintain the ability to refinance if or when there is a rate decrease, he said.

Terry Hayes stressed that, through good and bad economic times, real estate will always be a great investment in the future.

“When you invest in real estate in Peachtree Corners and neighboring areas of Southwest Gwinnett, the quality of your family life is heightened since you reside in a wonderful place that has so much to offer,” she said.

“I’ve lived in Peachtree Corners and raised my family here since 1980. I can’t think of a better place to be!” ■

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Atlanta REALTORS® December 2022 Market Brief

Getting the best price - Brokers have experience negotiating with buyers when it comes to selling a company and can maximize your profit by getting the best price for your business while avoiding potential pitfalls during the sale process.

Having a professional to guide you can help ensure the sale goes smoothly and you maximize your profit. Our service, dedication, and drive are your guarantee that if you are prepared to sell your company, we are ready to sell it for you. Explore your options by giving us a call 770-766-9855 or email atlantapeachtree@tworld.com today!

■ Residential sales: 3,973, down 40.2% from 2021

■ Median sales price: $389,000, up 3.5% from December 2021

■ Average sales price: $462,500, up 4.4% from 2021

■ Atlanta area inventory: 10,547 units, up 45.9% from December 2021

■ New listings: 3,845, down 26.0% from December 2021, and down 23.3% from November 2022

■ Inventory: 1.9 months

According to Atlanta REALTORS® President Michael Fischer, “The Atlanta real estate market has been rebalancing over the last several months, with the number of listings increasing and the total number of sales cooling from the records set last Spring.”

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The Atlanta REALTORS® December 2022 Market Brief, compiled by First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), is a regionally focused synopsis of monthly sales and home prices for residential properties in Metro Atlanta. This summary covers 11 counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Paulding, and Rockdale.

KARL BARHAM KBarham@tworld.com

COMMERCIAL REAL ESATE Fricke and Associates Relocates to Peachtree Corners Location

Fricke and Associates, a certified public accounting firm, has relocated two locations, bringing 25 new jobs and $800,000 capital investment to the City of Peachtree Corners. The firm signed a 9,000-square-foot office lease at Peachtree Ridge, located at 3500 Parkway Lane.

“By combining two offices into a larger, more centralized space, we can better serve our clients,” said Fricke and Associates Managing Partner Ted Fricke.

Formed in 1999, Fricke and Associates provides generalized and specialized accounting, tax, auditing and business consulting services for individuals and businesses. The company is also known for its dedicated community involvement.

“Professional service organizations play a vital role in our economy, providing valuable expertise for other businesses,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Nicole Hendrickson. “We welcome Fricke and Associates to our vibrantly connected community.”

Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason said the city is proud to welcome Fricke and Associates to Peachtree Corners. “Not only are they bringing a successful firm and valuable service to our city, but also their strong support of community organizations and our local nonprofits through their dedication to community service,” he noted.

Partnership Gwinnett Associate Project Manager Madeline Lester managed the project in collaboration with Gwinnett County Government and the City of Peachtree Corners.

NAC International Signs New Lease at 2 Sun Office Building

A world-leading provider of nuclear fuel cycle technology and consulting solutions, NAC International, has signed a lease at 2 Sun in Peachtree Corners. The company is leasing 23,000 square feet lease in the Class-A office building.

The 98,040-square-foot property in Technology Park recently underwent significant renovations to add amenities. 2 Sun now offers an outdoor tenant patio, campus-wide Wi-Fi and food delivery service for tenants.

Lincoln Property Company Southeast, one of the U.S.’s largest diversified commercial real estate companies, and Redline Property Partners made the lease announcement. Lincoln’s Senior Vice President Michael Howell, Vice President Matt Fergus and Senior Leasing Associate Seabie Hickson represented the landlord, Redline Property Partners. Cory Hall and Bo Keatley of Savills represented the tenant.

“Peachtree Corners is one of the premier business atmospheres in metro Atlanta, and 2 Sun offers a range of first-rate amenities both on and near the property,” said Lincoln’s Fergus. “The recent capital improvements allow 2 Sun to capture growing demand in the submarket.”

Northeast Atlanta continues to outperform other submarkets over the past couple of years, boasting the lowest vacancy rate among major metro Atlanta areas at just 15.9% across all property classes.

The office submarket also saw positive absorption of 5,117 square feet in Q3 of this year, marking the fifth quarter in the past six with positive absorption, according to a report from Lincoln. ■

“Professional services comprise more than 20% of the businesses in Gwinnett County,” said Partnership Gwinnett Vice President of Economic Development Andrew Carnes. “We look forward to Fricke and Associates continuing to grow to support our county and region.” ■

Peachtree Corners’ Prosperity Hinges on Technology

Curiosity Lab and the innovation it attracts may be the most significant economic driver in the area.

In Peachtree Corners, where economic development and business endeavors are in constant change, it’s important get periodic updates on what’s going on in city government. That’s why the Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) invited Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson

as the evening’s speaker at its January Business After Hours event.

Johnson prefaced his talk by pointing out that PCBA is the same age as the city itself and that government isn’t the only driver in a municipality’s prosperity.

“Cities are only as good as the activity, the involvement that we

get in all facets of the city, whether it’s the business environment, recreational, whatever — and we can’t do it without people like you who are taking your time to try to make your community a better place,” he said.

Through that kind of community and business support, Peachtree Corners remains the second largest municipality in Georgia with no city property tax, Johnson added.

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by Richard Phillips

“One of the reasons that we can do that is because of our very healthy business environment and the synergy that it generates,” he said. “And the more successful the companies here are, the more revenue we get from lots of different things.”

Johnson cited occupational

tax, business license fees and sales tax from people shopping, eating and lodging in the city as big contributors. “It’s one of the main reasons that we can do it,” he explained. “So, the city is very bullish on economic development.”

City’s appeal

Peachtree Corners’ appeal has lured many from far and wide. Part of the interest in the city

Above left, Matt Bettis, Lisa Proctor, Brian Johnson

Above, Nancy Minor, Erin Griffin, Tiffany Ellner, Lauri Rogers, Lisa Proctor

comes through Curiosity Lab, which is a very important asset as it has become a magnet for business activity coming to the city.

“Four years ago, we sat down and really looked hard at the city and said, ‘Economic development activity is important so that we don’t have to collect property tax, but are we doing everything we can to make sure that this community stands out from other communities?’” Johnson remembered.

Peachtree Corners is in a very competitive market when it comes to attracting and retaining businesses. Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Alpharetta are all in the running when companies look to expand or relocate. The city kept coming back to the

same conclusion to attract tech industries.

Vision continues expanding

“Back in the late 60s, a Georgia Tech grad turned developer named Paul Duke decided to do something about what, at the time, was a brain drain of Georgia Tech graduates having to leave metro Atlanta because there were not enough tech jobs in the area to keep them,” said Johnson.

Duke had been to the Research Triangle Park area in North Carolina and seen a concept of building office parks under a theme. The occupants of those office buildings were all together and all focused on the same industry — biomedical, energy, etc.

Inspired by that idea, Duke started speculatively constructing office buildings about 20 miles from downtown Atlanta and only filling them with tech companies. Today, it has grown into Technology Park, covering more than 500 acres and filled with over 10,000 people.

Over the years, some amazing discoveries have been made in that space.

■ In April of 1977, the first PC modem was created by a Georgia Tech alumnus.

■ The color printer was invented in Technology Park.

■ Scientific Atlanta, now Cisco, was also founded there.

Moving forward, the city couldn’t just rely on its reputation. Similar technology-themed business parks were cropping up in other areas of metro Atlanta — Johns Creek, Buckhead and downtown near Georgia Tech — as well as in other states.

City leaders started looking at what they could offer technology companies that they couldn’t get everywhere else. “We noticed that technology goes through an evolution in which brand-new technological gadgets or widgets are created. The first place that it gets tested is in a closed laboratory environment,” Johnson said.

Once it’s ‘perfected’ in the lab, it needs an intermediate step before it’s released to the general public. For example, an advanced vehicle would be tested on a closed course without people and other vehicles around. Once it passes that level, it needs another step before it’s completely ready —

limited interaction with the ‘real world.’

“Maybe we take all of those roads that the city owns inside of Technology Park, and we open it up to companies to test or demonstrate technology of any sort,” said Johnson.

The city investigated and found that nowhere else in the world had this. “So, we set out in creating Curiosity Lab,” he said. Its three-mile stretch of roadway offers 32 places that new technology can interact with cars and everything else involved in dayto-day traffic.

Major economic driver

The city isn’t only looking to attract automobile technology. Four years ago, it partnered with

to afford them an opportunity to interact with companies, or even use some of the technology, here that they wouldn’t have had elsewhere,” said Johnson.

The company took over a vacant building and brought about 150 employees initially.

Another success story is Intuitive Surgical, a California-based company that makes robotic assisted surgical systems. The most notable right now is called DaVinci. The company is looking to expand aggressively because it’s the only one with FDA approval for this type of device.

Intuitive was looking for east coast operations and had narrowed its selection to Peachtree Corners or Durham, NC.

“What pushed them over the

Sprint, now T-Mobile, to set up a 5G deployment — one of the first in metro Atlanta.

“This has become a very powerful magnet for companies to come here, even if it’s just for a little while. When we created it, … we decided to reduce some of the barriers to entry, and one of them is money,” said Johnson.

There is no cost to use the facilities, but the companies spend money in hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other local businesses while they’re here. So, Curiosity Lab is now an economic driver for the city and the entire area.

Once companies see the possibilities, some decide to move their operations here. One such company is Brightree, a technology company that provides solutions to post-acute care providers. It was looking to relocate and ultimately chose Peachtree Corners.

“The tipping point was that the ecosystem we created was going

edge was Curiosity Lab’s ecosystem in Tech Park,” said Johnson. “They said the partners and users we have are what they want to be around and be able to interact with.”

Intuitive is currently building a $600 million medical campus, creating 1,500 jobs with an average salary $150,000. It will also bring 19,000 overnight hotel room stays per year from visiting surgeons who come here for training on the DaVinci device. It’s the largest economic development project in Gwinnett County and the second largest medical economic development project in Georgia.

Johnson added that the vision of city leaders has afforded Peachtree Corners residents to enjoy an outstanding quality of life with no city property tax, thanks to Curiosity Lab. He hinted that other big announcements will be made in the coming months and encouraged everyone to enjoy the ride. ■

Cities are only as good as the activity, the involvement that we get in all facets of the city, whether it’s the business environment, recreational, whatever — and we can’t do it without people like you who are taking your time to try to make your community a better place.

Brian Johnson

PCBA Announces Focus Charities for 2023

Scholarship applications are available through March 8

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) kicked off the new year by awarding its final donation of 2022 to the Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence (NHSFE). At the January Business After Hours event, the nonprofit received a $500 check to help it further its mission of supporting students by bridging the gap between state and county funding.

NHSFE plays a pivotal role in generating the funds and resources necessary to cultivate the level of excellence and education desired for all students at Norcross High School (NHS) in the areas of academics, arts and athletics. Established in 2001, the foundation has

helped more than 2,700 students and raised more than $2.6 million. Co-presidents Tiffany Ellner and Erin Griffin accepted the funds on behalf of the foundation.

“We are so thankful for the Peachtree Corners Business Association. One of the very special things about Norcross High School is the community, and the support that we have from our business association is a huge part of that,” said Ellner. “We have really benefited from the partnership.”

She added that the opportunities that exist right in Peachtree Corners with Technology Park and other economic drivers are the perfect incentives to keep the talent of local students at home.

“I think about myself and my neighbor two doors down who are

Norcross High School graduates who chose to stay here. We chose to have our children in this community and be involved and to see the continued support. And we know that there are opportunities for my children and the students around them to come in and stay here as well,” she said.

2023 PCBA charities

PCBA President Lisa Proctor also announced the charities it will be contributing to this year.

■ Rainbow Village has a mission to transform the lives of families experiencing homelessness by providing help, hope, housing and healing in order to instill initiative, self-development and accountability to foster meaningful growth in all who enter.

■ Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett is a nonprofit committed to caring for the uninsured and underinsured working poor in the community. Its mission is to demonstrate the love of Christ through providing quality, affordable and accessible health and dental services to the poor and uninsured.

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by Richard Phillips

■ Corners Outreach equips metro Atlanta’s underserved students of color and their families to

lead full lives through educational development and economic opportunities.

“We’re really excited about the three charities that we’re raising money for this year,” said Proctor as she encouraged members to renew memberships, register for events and invite others to join.

“You’re gonna hear me begging a lot for that this year,” she said. “For those of you who’ve never been here before, one of the things we have is the privilege …as business owners and business leaders in the community, to give back and participate in the community in a meaningful way. One of the things that I applaud the Business Association for doing is, 10 years ago, they created an Outreach Committee.”

PCBA raises funds to donate to the nonprofits through memberships and sponsorships, Proctor added.

“We take a portion of those dollars, and we take the dollars from our annual charity event and donate those back to the community,” she said. “We’ve been able to fund 15 scholarships over the last 10 years. …We’ve donated $128,600 into our community, and we’re very proud. It’s not because any one person did it, but it’s what we’ve done as a community.”

The PCBA scholarship program is now open and accepting applications through March 8. The application and details are online at peachtreecornersba.com/community-outreach. ■

Peachtree Corners Business Association

peachtreecornersba.com

678-969-3385

From left to right, Michael Pugh PCBA Board; Donna Linden PCBA Board; Allison Reinert PCBA Board; Lisa Proctor PCBA Board; Erin Griffin NHSFE; Tiffany Ellner NHSFE; Suzanna Martinez PCBA Outreach; Matt Bettis PCBA Outreach

Business Organizations and Events

Peachtree Corners Business Association

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

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 southwestgwinnettchamber.com

PCBA Lunch Club

Thursdays, February 9 and March 9

11:30-1:30 a.m.

Marlow’s Tavern

5210 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Open to PCBA members and their guests. Online registration is required.

Meet up with PCBA members for enjoyable networking and save 15% off your lunch check.

space is limited.

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

PCBA Business After Hours Speaker Series

Thursday, February 23

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park Café, 107 Technology Pkwy. Peachtree Corners

Event registration is $35. Advanced registration is $25 for members and $30 for guests. Registration includes appetizers and drinks.

PCBA Connecting Over Coffee

Morning Meetup

Tuesdays, February 14 and March 14

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

February’s Speaker Series event focuses on Economic Outlook and Market Trends for 2023. Toby Anderson, Senior Financial Advisor with SGL Wealth Management Group, will interview guest speaker, Brian Girten CIMA® CRPC® Vice President, Senior Advisor Consultant with Franklin Templeton.

SWGC Coffee Connections

Friday, February 10 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Free admission for SWGC members and visitors.

Meet up with local business professionals to enjoy coffee or tea and conversation to expand professional relationships. Meetings are held in the large meeting space behind the SWGC office at Atlanta Tech Park.

Rotary Club of Peachtree Corners

Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College Street, Norcross 30071 peachtreecornersrotary.org

Rotary Club Meetings

Mondays, February 13, 27 and March 6, 13, 20, 27 12-1 p.m.

Special guests speak at some meetings. Upcoming meetings feature:

■ Beth Coffee, Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 6,

■ J.T. Wu, Preface Project on Feb. 13,

■ Author Conrad Hall on Mar. 6,

■ Milford W. McGuirt, CPA on Mar. 20, and

Atlanta Tech Park

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

Gwinnett Young Professionals — Continuing the Conversation with Emerging Entrepreneurs

Tuesday, March 21

11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Hear from previous winners of the Emerging Entrepreneurs award — such as Anthony Chen, Ali Jamal, Naveed Tharwani and Elizabeth M’balu Oke — as they share their tips and tricks to take you from side hustle to start-up to seasoned business owner. The event features a panel discussion and Q&A with these award winners as a continued conversation from the Gwinnett Chamber’s Small Business Awards. For more information visit, 107atp.com/members/atp-events

■ Erin McCormick, GM of Gwinnett Stripers, AAA Minor League Baseball team on Mar. 27.

Rotary Means Business at Kettlerock

Brewing

Thursday, February 16 5-7 p.m.

Kettlerock Brewing

6025 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 1, Peachtree Corners

“Light Is Hope”

A Juried Exhibition by The Peachtree Corners Photography Club

The very active and growing Peachtree Corners

Photography Club is hosting its first juried print exhibition. The theme of the exhibition is “Light Is Hope,” and it is displayed at the Peachtree Corners Library, 5570 Spalding Drive.

The exhibition consists of 100 beautiful photographs that were selected from the call for entries

By PTC Staff

by the judge, Amanda Gardner. Amanda is co-owner of a wedding and corporate photography business. She received her degree in Commercial Photography from Gwinnett Technical College in 2010 and has been an instructor at the Atlanta School of Photography since 2012.

Sixteen people worked six hours on a Saturday to install 100 photos for the exhibit. Top left, L to R Tracey Rice, Joey Straka, and Darren Straka (Photo by Tracey Rice) Top, top to bottom Darren Straka, Joey Straka, and Theresa Phillips (Photos by Richard Phillips)

Above left, Amanda Gardner

Above, front to back Vipul Singh, MD, Vicki Skurski, Marcia Brandes, and David Schilling

SATURDAY

APRIL 29

10AM-2PM

GWINNETT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

FREE event with over 60 vendors, summer camp info, door prizes, stage presentations, kids activities and more! The first 300 kids in line will receive a string backpack filled with goodies!

CO-PRODUCED BY:

The Gwinnett County Public Library will be kicking off their Summer Reading Program at the door! Stop by to learn more and sign up!

According to the Club’s President, Tracey Rice, “We felt that after the long pandemic and all the strife in the world today, we could use the power of photography to shine a light on images that convey a sense of hope and optimism. The images in the exhibition are unique works of art created by 30 local artists, taken close to home and far away, of widely varying subject matter in distinctly different styles.”

When asked about the decision to host the exhibition at the Peachtree Corners Library, Tracey said, “We knew we wanted to exhibit the work in a public space within Peachtree Corners. The library is large, centrally located, is open to the public every day of the week and has lots of empty wall space. The librarians are very excited to have 100 large prints of art filling their walls, especially ones of such high quality from local artists.

“It gives people yet another reason to visit the library,” she continued. “We also love it because there are still a lot of people who don’t know about our club, and the exhibition will introduce us to more people who may have a passion for photography.”

The library is set to host the “Light Is Hope” Grand Opening and Juror’s Talk on Saturday, February 4. Visitors will hear the juror talk about her process of selecting the photos from those submitted. Amanda will also lead a walk through the Exhibition and discuss many of the photos on display.

Exhibition Artists’ Talk set for February 25

On Saturday, February 25, there will be an Artists’ Talk at the library, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Visitors will be able to roam through the exhibition and talk with the artists whose work is displayed. They’ll learn the backstories of the photographs — where the photos were taken, what attracted the photographers’ eyes to take the photos, how they took them and how they edited them to make original pieces of art.

“Light Is Hope”

As photography clubs go, the Peachtree Corners Photography Club is relatively young, having been founded in 2017. The group’s purpose is to educate, encourage and expand the photographic knowledge and capabilities of its members.

Club meetings and other events

The photography club hosts a monthly meeting at Atlanta Tech Park on the second Thursday of every month. Meetings are free and open to the public. The club also holds a virtual technical webinar on the fourth Tuesday of every month for paid members, and it hosts guided field trips, meetups and workshops throughout the year.

The Peachtree Corners Photography Club has grown substantially in the last three years, and it became a recognized 501(c)(3)

non-profit organization last year.

Tracey said, “I am always amazed at the large number of very skilled photographers we have in and around Peachtree Corners, and the number seems to be growing exponentially every day! Our club is a wonderful resource for photographers of all skill levels, from beginners to pros, to continually grow their skills and share their love of photography with other like-minded people.” ■

Featured Exhibition Artists

• Gary Beck

• George Kaffezakis

• Eric Richter

• Marcia Brandes

• Mario Lombardi

• Chanel Saliah Soares

• Bob Chadwick

• Linda McLaurin

• David Schilling

• Chuck Cimarik

• Anna Niziol

• Tom Simpson

• David Dunagan

• Joseph Peake

• Vipul Singh

• Ken Esser

• Paul Peterson

• Jim Skurski

• Margaret B. Gallagher

• Richard Phillips

• Darren Straka

• Rafael Garcia

• Jody Pollack

• Bob Walker

• Robert Gates

• Andrew Potts

• Mike Walker

• Philip Hart

• Tracey Rice

• Brian Walton

Exhibition Sponsors

• The HP Graphics

Experience Center

• The Gilman Brothers Company

Year-Round Sponsors

• Aristo J. Shyn, DMD, Link Dental Care

• Atlanta Tech Park

• Mad Gillz Fishing

• Peachtree Corners

Business Association

• Peachtree Corners Magazine

• The UPS Store, 7742 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners

■

Bob Chadwick - Family Stroll

Brian Walton - Ethereal Drama

Marcia BrandesBasking in the Warmth

Richard Phillips - Walking Across A Thermal Pool

Darren Straka - Chillin Anywhere

Summer Camps Rebound and Keep Getting Better

allow for building friendships and lasting memories.”

Kelly Weatherly, director of auxiliary programs and outreach at the Wesleyan School, said summer camps bring a sense of normalcy to a child’s summer break, and now that camps have returned, kids appear to appreciate them even more. Wesleyan also saw a new attendance record in 2022, she said.

“We are delighted to be back to normal,” Weatherly said. “A major part of the camp experience is running around, playing and being close with friends, new and old. COVID limited us from those experiences, but we have come back better and stronger, and I genuinely think the kids see it and are grateful for the closeness and the normalcy we are able to bring to their summer. People seem more anxious than ever to sign up for camp in 2023, and we are ready for them.”

Summer camps are bouncing back in Peachtree Corners. And in some places, they never went anywhere.

For two years, COVID-19 lowered summer camp attendance, shut them down entirely or required a virtual option for kids to participate. But if 2022 attendance numbers are any indication, the

popularity of summer camps has boomed, and camp providers could see a record turnout in 2023.

As early as January registration for many camps was already open and some are filling up fast.

Back and stronger than ever

“This past summer demonstrated we have fully recovered from the pandemic,” said Bob Hagan, owner of Club SciKidz, a technology and science focused summer camp offered in multiple locations in metro Atlanta, including Notre Dame Academy in Duluth. “We set a sales record for our summer camps.”

By Nathan Deen

Club SciKidz offers more than 60 STEM themes for children in pre-kindergarten through seventh grade, as well as Marvel-themed,

zombie-themed and Lego-themed programs.

For Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), the pandemic didn’t cause much change. The school shut down from March to May 2020, but following proper guidelines, they hosted in-person camps that summer. The only thing affected has been attendance, but that changed in 2022, said GAC director of community relations Margie Asef. Last year, GAC saw a record attendance.

GAC will host more than 30 specialty camps, along with weekly camps that include a field trip in the metro Atlanta area.

“Our dynamic array of classes and choices allow for the maximum benefit for our campers and their parents,” Asef said. “Day camp is a fun filled day that will

In 2021, Wesleyan only hosted camps for Wesleyan students and family members before reopening to the public in 2022.

“We are constantly watching trends and looking for new ideas to make camps interesting,” Weatherly said. “Wesleyan has been offering camps to the community for over 25 years. We also never leave campus. We believe this makes us unique. What you see is what you get, and what better way to experience Wesleyan than by coming to camp?”

Many camp options available

Here is a compilation of some of the summer camps available in the Peachtree Corners area.

Club SciKidz

Camp Invention

Location: Berkley Lake

Elementary School, 4300 S Berkeley Lake Rd., Duluth

Camp Dates: June 5-8

Cost: $275

Ages: Grades K-6

Website: invent.org/programs/ camp-invention

An initiative of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Camp Invention has more than 1,000 camp programs nationwide. The mission of Camp Invention is to inspire innovative thinking among youth. The program will help grow campers’ confidence, boost problem-solving skills, and learn about innovative role models.

The 2023 theme of Camp Invention is “Summer of Wonder.” Activities include “Pop-up Venture,” in which campers learn how to become entrepreneurs and design their own pop-up business, and “Catching Air,” in which kids use design engineering to build their own skate park.

Club SciKidz

Location: Notre Dame Academy, 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth

Camp Dates: June 12-July 17

Cost: $349

Ages: Grades PreK to 7th Grade

Website: atlanta.clubscikidz.com

Club Sci Kidz is an Atlanta-based, STEM-focused camp that offers creative venues for participants with themes such as Marvel Movie Maker, Special Effects & Zombies, and Nintendo Labo. Each participant receives a specialty

made welcome box full of stuff related to their camp theme.

Club SciKidz has been a popular camp choice in the Atlanta area since it was founded by Bob and Sue Hagan in 1997. They’ve have hosted more than 100,000 children since then. Camps are held at eight locations across metro Atlanta.

Future Blue Devil Cheerleading Camp

Location: Norcross High School, 5300 Spalding Dr., Norcross

Camp Dates: June 6-8

Ages: Pre-K to 6th Grade

Website: norcrosshighcheer.weebly. com

Spend the afternoon learning from current Norcross High cheerleaders and head coach Chandler Williams.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

UNFORGETTABLE CAMPS

UNFORGETTABLE KIDS

Summer will be here before you know it. Make it the best one yet with Summer Academy at UGA.

Over 50 STEM and arts camps, including zoology, photography, drones, and more.

Hands-on learning to support your middle or high schooler’s future career goals

Claim your spot now through February 28 to save with Early Registration, and add your Peachtree Corners discount at checkout for an extra $5 savings

Don’t delay—spots are filling quickly!

To claim your discount, scan the QR code or visit georgiacenter.uga.edu/youth/peachtree

Get started now and make this summer one to remember.

Greater Atlanta Christian School

Location: 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross

Camp Dates: June 5-July 28

Cost: TBD (registration opened Jan. 30)

Ages: 4-18

Website: greateratlantachristian. org/campus-life/summer-camp/ summer-camp

GAC offers three types of camp categories: Grow Day Camp, Thrive Day Camp and Specialty Day Camp. Grow is designed for fourth and fifth graders, while Thrive is designed for grades 6-8.

In addition to weekly field trips, campers can look forward to using the new GAC clubhouse, which offers ping pong, air hockey, board games and arcade basketball. Thrive participants can look forward to attending local sporting events, going to the movies and an indoor skating party.

Gwinnett County

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

Camp Dates: June 12-July 28

Cost: $121-$151

Ages: 5-13

Website: gwinnettcounty.com/

Among the most cost-efficient options for kids this summer, Gwinnett County offers camps at most of its community centers, including Pinckneyville Park. The county’s Summer Adventure offers eight programs: Campers Got

Talent, Get into Character, Into the Wild, Let’s Explore Georgia, Let’s Try It, Make a Splash and Once Upon a Time. A $151 registration fee is good for an entire day’s worth of adventure.

i9 Sports Multi-Sport Camp

Location: Bunten Road Park, 3180 Bunten Rd., Duluth

Camp Dates: June 5-9 and July 24-29

Cost: $160

Ages: 5-10

Website: i9sports.com/atlantayouth-sports-leagues

The i-9 Sports Multi-Sport Camp gives kids a chance to learn the basics of flag football, soccer and baseball by working with local coaches and instructors. i9 hosts camps nationwide for more than 3.5 million kids per year. i9 also offers youth sports leagues for kids of all skill levels ages 3 and up.

Kids 4 Coding

Location: Paul Duke STEM High School, 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross

Camp Dates: Weekly full- and halfday programs, June 5-July 28

Cost: $400 half day / $690 full day

Ages: 7-14

Website: kids4coding.com

The Kids 4 Coding in Duluth offers courses in programming languages such as Scratch and Python, as well as game development courses involving Roblox and Minecraft. The camps also provide courses in artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous cars and aug-

Greater Atlanta Christian

mented reality. Available in Georgia and Massachusetts, Kids 4 Coding covers a broad foundation of STEM education programs. The student-teacher ratio is 7 to 1, and instructors are recruited from top computer science and engineering programs such as Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, Harvard and MIT.

MJCCA Summer Day Camps

Location: Marcus

Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody

Camp Dates: May 30-Aug. 11

Cost: $415 member / $490 community

Ages: Pre-K through 9th grade

Website: mjccadaycamps.org/register

The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta offers camps on and off its 52-acre campus in Dunwoody. Participants can enjoy day camps at MJCCA or enjoy nature at Camp Isidore Alterman, which has activities such as bumper boats, outdoor cooking, ropes course, canoeing, fishing, sports, free swim, STEAM, drama, dance and arts and crafts.

MJCAA also operates a separate outdoors camp called Camp Barney Medintz in the North Georgia Mountains.

PGA Camps

Location: TPC Sugarloaf, 2595

Sugarloaf Club Dr., Duluth

Camp Dates: June 6-July 28

Cost: $600 half day / $1,000 full day

Ages: 7-16

Website: pgajuniorgolfcamps.com

TPC Sugarloaf in Duluth offers a premiere golf camp in which junior players will be able to hone their skills on a 10-acre practice facility. Campers are instructed by certified PGA professionals with a low student to instructor ratio of 6 to 1.

Half-day camps are recommended for beginning golfers, while full-

day camps are designed for intermediate to advanced skill levels.

Wesleyan School

Location: 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners

Camp Dates: June 12-21

Cost: $175 half day / $400 full day

Ages: 3-13

Website: wesleyanschool.org/programs/summer-camps?siteId=1161

With a full range of camps from

sports to STEM to arts, Wesleyan School has more than 50 camps to choose from, all of which take place on the Wesleyan campus. Camps are designed to offer a balance of strong content and organized play time.

Each camps finds time to be inside and outside with structured time as well as free time. Registration is now open, and camps for younger kids tend to sell out early.■

Wesleyan School

North Metro Academy of Performing Arts Settles into Peachtree Corners

Gwinnett County’s first themed elementary school aims to incorporate arts education into a robust, imaginative and collaborative environment.

“The arts are an essential element of education, just like reading, writing and arithmetic. Music, dance, painting and theatre are all keys that unlock profound human understanding and accomplishment.”

— William Bennett, former US Secretary of Education

Those words were declared many decades ago, long before students and even some staff members at North Metro Academy of Performing Arts (NMAPA) were born. But the sentiment rings as true today as it did then.

Gwinnett County Public Schools’ first themed elementary school, NMAPA is still somewhat of a hidden gem. Dr. Rodriguez Johnson, principal since the school was established in 2014, along with students, staff and the community

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by George Hunter

are working to change that.

“It’s amazing that we have over 40 different elementary schools represented in our community here. We have kids that come from Lilburn and Lawrenceville and Duluth and all over to attend our school, and it’s really about that close knit family community,” said Johnson.

“We have our kids learning the same curriculum that they do at every other elementary school,” he continued. “I think it’s just really our personal connections that really separates us from our sister schools.”

The purpose of the K-5 school, open to every Gwinnett County resident, is to give students the opportunity to develop unique interests, uncover hidden talents, experience satisfaction in accom-

plishments, gain a sense of responsibility and pursue education as a way of life through educational programs tailored to their own specific needs, according to the school website.

This hidden gem didn’t pop up overnight. It has been a dream of lifelong educator Beauty Baldwin. After decades of dedication to educating students in Schley, Muscogee and Gwinnett counties, Baldwin retired in June 1994 as the first Black female superintendent of Buford City Schools, as well as the first in the entire state of Georgia.

Her commitment to education and her community are evident with a school and a municipal building named for her. In 2016, the Gwinnett County Board of Education dedicated Baldwin Elementary

Opposite page, students of North Metro Academy of Performing Arts

Top left, Brian Bryant the music teacher working with second grade students.

Middle above, Rodriguez Johnson working with second grade students during Art Specials

Left, Brenda Scott, SDMC

Baldwin served as Hopewell’s administrator for 16 years until it became a Gwinnett County Charter School. The move to the public school system came with a name change — North Metro Academy. In May 2021, the Gwinnett County Board of Education approved transitioning NMAPA from a public charter school to GCPS’s first themed elementary school. But the work doesn’t end there.

Room for everyone

North Metro Academy of Performing Arts engages students in instruction that integrates the academics and performing arts in ways that address the unique needs and interests of each student, said Dr. Johnson. He added that, unlike the fictional school of the arts in the movie “Fame,” there’s no auditioning for a spot at NMAPA.

There is currently no wait list and no child within Gwinnett County is turned away.

considered a more affluent area than many other parts of the county, the student body is quite diverse and there’s a place for everyone.

“I think a lot families choose us because they know that when they come here, we are an extended part of their family and there is no judgment. Every kid is one of our students and we make sure that we build a rapport with all of them,” said Johnson.

“We have such a small staff that I think that really helps us build those relationships, too,” he added. “Our parents know the teachers and we treat everyone like family.”

The first group that started kindergarten at NMAPA will be transitioning from fifth grade to middle school at the end of the academic year.

He said he gets requests from parents who want to see the theme extended to middle school, and perhaps even high school. However, Johnson is focusing on the ones in his care and preparing them for their best futures.

“Right now, we’re just trying to embrace our new space and continuing to grow our program,” he said. “Hopefully, one day, we will have so many students on the waiting list that we’ll have to have a bigger building.” ■

School

Perhaps her passion for edu-

cation and commitment to children and the community is most evident in the former Hopewell Christian Academy that opened in 1997, shortly after Baldwin thought she had put away her educator hat. Many years later, she admitted that one never stops being a teacher.

“Before we moved onto this campus, we had around 320 students. We expect to continue to increase our enrollment each year,” Johnson said. “We’re really excited about our future and our continued growth. And we’re extremely excited about being here in Peachtree Corners and Norcross.”

Although Peachtree Corners is

in Norcross in her name. In 2020, a ceremony was held to dedicate Gwinnett County’s newlyrenovated elections office as The Gwinnett Voter Registrations & Elections Beauty P. Baldwin Building.

SWGC Recognizes Local Student with Character Award

The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber (SWGC) recently held its monthly First Friday breakfast at Peachtree Corners’ Atlanta Tech Park, the organization’s signature monthly networking event drawing local business professionals.

During the breakfast, SWGC presented its Character Award to Wesleyan School’s Alexandra Edgar. Chamber Board President William Diehl gave the award to Alexandra, who was joined by her parents, James and Jennifer Edgar, and her Wesleyan High School Principal, Joseph Koch.

“Alexandra was chosen as a leader because of her kindness to others, ability to follow through with commitments, and setting positive examples,” said Principal Koch. “She co-founded a club at Wesleyan that focuses on encouraging and serving different groups each month and over her high school career she has participated in several additional service organizations.

“This year, she was selected by the faculty to be a peer leader for the freshmen class,” Koch added.

Since beginning high school, Alex has focused on attending the Naval Academy or a college where she

can participate in Navy ROTC with her goal to join the Navy following graduation. Alex is a leader in all aspects of her life, whether on the volleyball court, in the classroom or participating in her many service organizations.

The Character Award

The SWGC created the Character Award to recognize outstanding area high school students whose attitudes and actions embody the chamber’s mission, passion and commitment to excellence and community action.

The award celebrates a student’s outstanding character, with a special focus on the following characteristics at home and in his or her community.

1. Respect: listens to others, appreciates differences, can state opinions without denigrating those of others.

2. Citizenship: observes rules, does their fair share, is respectful of authority at home, school and the community.

3. Caring: takes time to extend themselves to others, acknowledges the feelings of others, treats everyone fairly without regard for their

gain or loss of social standing.

4. Trustworthiness: truthful, sincere, honest, stands up for their beliefs, does not spread rumors, returns what is borrowed, keeps promises.

5. Justice/Fairness: treats everyone with equal respect and fairness, does not take advantage of others’ mistakes or shortcomings, takes only their fair share, waits for their turn.

6. Responsibility: thinks before acting, accepts consequences of decisions (no excuses), tries hard and does not quit.

Each month, a selected student is recognized at a chamber event and presented with an award. Applications for Character Award consideration can be made by submitting a completed form to william.corbin@ norcrossqa.net. ■

Partnership Gwinnett Celebrates Gwinnett County Students and Teachers

event that honors the highest-achieving seniors and their most academically influential teachers.

“Gwinnett County boasts some of the best schools in the nation,” said Partnership Gwinnett Economic Development Vice President Andrew Carnes.

On January 26, Partnership Gwinnett hosted the Student Teacher Achievement Recognition Reception, sponsored by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators and PAGE Foundation and presented by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, at the John C. Maxwell Leadership Center in Duluth.

More than 200 students, teachers and guests attended the annual

“We are proud to celebrate and congratulate these talented students who represent our future workforce and the teachers who have made a difference in their lives.”

The presentation recognized 76 recipients from 32 schools, including Greater Atlanta Christian School, Notre Dame Academy, Providence Christian Academy, and Wesleyan School.

Honorees from our local area and related schools include:

Gwinnett County Public Schools

Duluth High School

Mandy Xu and Mr. Jonathan Roy

Gwinnett Online Campus

Jackson Lee and Ms. Kristen Brigmond

Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology

May-Jann Wong and Mr. Donny Thurston

Norcross High School

Jordan Katz and Mr. Corey Fair Sean Zhong and Ms. Michelle Larate

Paul Duke STEM High School

Nathan Chen and Mr. Andrew Wright

Rohan Pai and Dr. John Mobley

Private Schools

Greater Atlanta Christian School

John Alsobrook and Dr. Derek Wilson

Greater Atlanta Christian School

Jackson Rosero and Mr. Samuel Vernhes

Notre Dame Academy

Riddhi Akshara and Mrs. Elena Ouimette

Providence Christian Academy

Lydia Panek and Mrs. Renee Sargent

Wesleyan School

RJ Devlin and Mr. Joseph Cooper

The PAGE STAR honors the highest-achieving high school seniors and their most academically influential teachers. Students must have the highest score on any single SAT taken through the November test date of their senior year with their SAT scores equal to or higher than the 2022 national average scores on the evidence-based math and reading and writing sections, as well as rank in the top 10% or top 10 students of their class based on their GPA. ■

Left to right, Joseph Koch, Jennifer Edgar, Alexandra Edgar, James Edgar and William Corbin.

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive WHY WESLEYAN? Scan to learn more!

International Floriculture Industry Leader Chooses Peachtree Corners for Headquarters

Garcia Group recently located its main office and showroom for Flora Mart in Technology Park.

Pete Garcia, a recent inductee and recipient of the highest floral honor in the industry from the Society of American Florists Floriculture Hall of Fame, doesn’t mind that he’s not a household name. But anybody in the floral industry — retailers, suppliers, manufacturers, growers, wholesalers, importers and event florists, as well as floral students,

educators and researchers — have probably heard of the man who has been a major player for more than 60 years.

His contributions to the advancement of floriculture and his never-ending advocacy for floral research, scholarships and grants are why the highest honor of the floral industry was bestowed upon him.

During his acceptance speech,

Garcia acknowledged the hard work and dedication of his family and staff. “We hope that we have left a footprint in the industry and that we’re all successful through what we have accomplished together,” he said.

Besides his strong work ethic and business savvy, Garcia hopes to encourage younger people to take advantage of opportunities like he did.

Flowery path to success

With his son, David Garcia, now at the helm, Pete has relinquished control of the Garcia Group and Pete Garcia Co. The firm does business across the U.S. and North America as well as Europe.

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by George Hunter

Garcia’s passion and determination are just as strong as when he first drove a delivery truck for wholesale flower company in

Jacksonville, Fla. “My older brother went to college to be an electrical engineer and the pressure was on me to do something else. I was going to be an architect, but I hated school,” said Garcia.

When he and his first wife were

Left, Dave and Bev Garcia, Brenda and Pete Garcia, and Kathy and Jim Headlee

Top, Claudia Sutton, Sean Ferris, Marsha Seiloff, Brenda Garcia

Above, Kathy and Jim Headlee, Hernan Caraballo

Opposite page, the showroom with seasonal product

expecting a baby, he just needed a job. So, in 1956, history was made when he decided against college. He took his creativity and earnestness and applied them to the floral industry.

“Our family was very detailed by nature,” he said.

Garcia’s father came to the U.S. from Spain when he was 16. A skilled cabinetmaker, he was a genius who devised floating staircases and other marvels. Garcia Sr. was so dedicated to his craft that his tools have a place of honor in the Flora Mart building.

Garcia applied that same type of ingenuity to his career, and he

eventually became an assistant manager for the florist company Carlstedt.

Call it luck or the right opportunity for the right man, but several years later, Pete Garcia found himself a salesman for the eastern zone of the U.S. selling floral supplies. In his first year, he increased the business by $1.2 million. When the owner died four years later, Garcia took over the business.

A year later, 1970, he incorporated the Pete Garcia Co. He’d realized that there was nobody supplying florists with mouth-blown glassware on a large scale. Garcia worked out agreements with sev-

eral suppliers to smooth out the supply chain.

Peachtree Corners location fits perfectly

After 46 years in Chamblee, the company now has a 30,000 squarefoot showroom in what many consider the gateway to north metro Atlanta. The sophisticated, stateof-the-art operation in Peachtree Corners is unique in that it fills the needs of virtually everyone in the floral industry around the world and provides convenient access for domestic and international clients.

“We chose this spot because we didn’t need to be in a retail environment,” Garcia said. “We only sell to wholesalers and growers and creators of the products themselves.”

Although 2023 had just kicked off, the headquarters was already bustling with clients looking to place orders for next Thanksgiving and Christmas. ■

Related links: facebook.com/PeteGarciaCompany garciagroupinc.com

Solving Space Problems and Making a Home Easier and More Enjoyable to Live In

EV Remodeling focuses on a 25-mile radius around Peachtree Corners to give top-notch, personalized service.

Although Eliad Vaknin started EV Remodeling at the end of 2019 in Peachtree Corners, his years of experience and dedication to the craft go well beyond that.

“I started my business years ago, but it was a different name because I had a business partner,” he said. When Vaknin decided to strike out on his own, he made a vow to give clients personalized and individual attention. “I consult with clients throughout the project, connect them to the right archi-

By Arlinda Smith Broady

tects, get the proper permits and help them choose the designs and items that are right for them,” he said. “I’m here for them every step of the way.”

Although home remodeling has seen a measured increase in the last decade — especially since the pandemic hit — the process can be daunting. Vaknin said he often hears horror stories from clients about contractors who left them frustrated and wary of ever taking on another home improvement project.

“For us it’s more than just another project,” he explained. “Our clients deserve our time, care and attention to detail. It’s my personal goal to make sure that everyone is not just happy, but ecstatic, at the end of the remodel.”

Above and beyond customer service

Vaknin recalled a customer who wasn’t completely satisfied with a tile job almost two years after a bathroom remodel was finished. Of course, any kind of warranty would

have expired by then.

“I contacted the subcontractor and had him fix the problem — at my cost,” he said. “In my business, customer satisfaction is the most important thing. I learned early on that being able to see someone’s face as they watch their house transform into their dream home is among one of the best joys in life.”

It cost Vaknin about $150 out of his pocket, but the client was so pleased with the results and the seamless, hassle-free interaction, that he contracted with EV to completely redo the main level of his house.

“Since those early days I have made it our mission to make sure that everyone we work with has an enjoyable experience from beginning to end. After all, upgrading your home is something that should be exciting for you throughout the entire project,” he said.

Filling a need

Nowadays, homeowners have more time to think about improving their dwellings, but a trade

labor shortage has been impacting the industry for several years. It’s made home renovations take longer to complete — or impossible to complete altogether — and cost more money than usual.

Since around 2018, the U.S. has seen a shortage of tradespeople for projects like kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, flooring and electrical work. In addition, necessary supplies — including wood and metal — aren’t always available due to a materials shortage.

Although he doesn’t have any magic powers to keep those problems from plaguing his business, Vaknin said he treats suppliers, contractors and customers with respect.

EV Remodeling isn’t the cheapest contractor in the area, but it’s certainly among the most reliable. That’s a value that Vaknin brought with him when he immigrated from Israel in 2009.

“My father was a contractor, and I learned the trade from him. It’s always been in my veins,” he said.

Vaknin started out in new home

Photos of a bathroom renovation by EV Remodeling (Photos by IMOTO)

Opposite page, Eliad Vaknin; right with his family, wife, Shiran Ankave, and children, Adell (10) and Ariel (7) (Photos by Oshrit Hakmon)

construction, building about 60 houses ranging in price from $500,000 to $1.5 million. However, he said he prefers the personal connections he has made working with existing homeowners.

“You might not ever meet the person that you built a home for,” he said. “This way, I know the customer is getting exactly what they want.”

Vaknin said he thinks of himself as a problem solver. “A lot of times, when you come into people’s homes, they have problems that they need you to solve,” he said. “It’s either the kitchen is too small, the family has grown and they need additional room, or stuff like that. …I help people solve problems and make their lives easier.”

Focus on family and community

Although 2020 saw $420 billion spent by Americans on home improvement projects, subsequent years are projected to surpass that, according to a study last year from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. That same research shows that homeowners are also willing to spend more on home improvement projects.

The pandemic forced many to stay inside for months and a lot of Americans have been reluctant to return to offices. For them, having a functional, comfortable and livable home is a top-priority — even in the face of higher material costs.

Vaknin continues to see a rise in remodeling projects for office space and home entertainment, but his bread and butter is still kitchens and bathrooms. That’s why he said he likes to keep his business in a tight radius, about 25 miles with Peachtree Corners as the epicenter.

It has helped him give his clients the time they need since he’s not spending so much time traveling around metro Atlanta. “Maybe that’s what makes me different than other contractors because

…I’m controlling my schedule and my time. I really can give each client the attention that they need,” Vaknin said.

He recalled a family who wanted to add a bathroom for their four teenage daughters who had been sharing one bathroom. Most contractors said the only solution was to add a bathroom to the basement, although the girls’ bedrooms were on the second floor.

“It was doable, but it wouldn’t be convenient to have them go down three flights to get ready,” said Vaknin. “I’m sure there would still be fights and arguing every morning.”

He consulted with his best subcontractor and they came up with a solution to add a bathroom upstairs without increasing square footage. “It required kind of a complex work with plumbing,” said Vaknin.

Everyone was happy with the solution.

Vaknin knows how important a happy home is. He has two children — a 9-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old son. He said that he and his wife, a real estate agent, hope to pass on their values to their kids.

“I will let them decide if they want to someday take over my business,” he said. “But I want them to know why I do it and what it means to be a good businessman and a good member of the community.” ■

Related links:

evremodelinginc.com

houzz.com/pro/evremodeling/ ev-remodeling-inc

Commercial Roofing Company Continues Legacy of Excellence

Parsons Roofing recently moved its headquarters to Peachtree Corners to remain close to family and poised for growth in the southeast U.S.

Those familiar with local history know that the Parsons surname is synonymous with development in the area. The Parsons Family Stores were staples for more than a century. Calvin Parsons and his wife Kate inherited her father’s general store that began in 1876

By Arlinda Smith Broady

as a single trading post outside of Lawrenceville. Parsons grew the business to several stores throughout north Georgia that sold everything from groceries, clothing and dry goods to hardware and building materials.

Today, the Parsons name continues its legacy of quality service in the southwest Gwinnett County area. Parsons Roofing Company recently moved operations to Peachtree Corners. Its owner, Jay Thornton , is the great grandson of Calvin Parsons.

In the 1960s, the building supply division moved to a separate location south of downtown Duluth and was operated by Jay Thornton’s grandfather. One of the Duluth location’s mainstays was selling roofing products.

The present-day Parsons Roofing company is a commercial roofing contractor and no longer sells roofing products. The company now focuses on the installation, repair and restoration of commercial roofs.

As a fifth-generation member of a family dedicated to hard work and forward vision, Thornton noted that Parsons Roofing Company has grown into a regional business with clients across the southeast.

Thornton started a residential shingle roofing company out of his grandmother’s basement 10 years ago. His work ethic and dedication to quality helped his

Before Before

business take off. He gained a partner in Eric Abell and eventually turned the focus to commercial projects.

“I started this company with a strong belief that consumers need a roofer they can trust. Before I started Parsons Roofing, I had worked in the roofing industry for years and was disheartened. Every company I worked for cared about money first and the customer second,” Thornton states on his company website.

“I felt that it should be the opposite. I believe that if you are honest and take care of the customer first, everything else will fall into place. So that’s what

we’ve built our business on here at Parsons As our customer, you’ll feel the trust and respect for your needs from us right away.”

Growing the business

Abell and Thornton opened up their first office in the Chamblee area as Prestige Roofing in 2018. The business model was so successful, they outgrew the space. As it turned out, they continued to outgrow their accommodations so they’re now in a space on Medlock Bridge Road in Peachtree Corners.

The move is perfect for many reasons, said Jennifer Sudderth, director of sales and marketing. It’s near family and the community that the company wants to be a part of, it’s in the heart of metro Atlanta — one of the hottest commercial building markets in the country — and it’s centrally located to other growth areas where Parsons plans to extend

business, like Nashville, Orlando and Raleigh.

The company already has major projects in the works in Nashville with plans to open an office there by the end of the year. Next

will be satellite offices in Orlando and Raleigh, keeping a manageable distance from home base.

Although the pandemic may have had adverse effects on many businesses, Sudderth said Parsons Roofing barely felt the impact.

“Roofing is a need, not a want,” she said. “If you’re a commercial operation with a leaky roof, there’s not an option to put it off.”

And supply issues didn’t plague the business, either. Most roofing companies don’t keep a lot of inventory, and commercial roofing doesn’t come in a variety of styles and colors. It was possible to store enough supply to get through rough patches when goods weren’t being transported on time.

Even though Parsons Roofing isn’t going to be a household name, the company believes in community connections and family ties. It has joined local chambers of commerce and other business organizations and is involved in philanthropic endeavors locally.

Although Peachtree Corners is the largest city in Gwinnett County, it has a small-town, homey vibe, said Sudderth.

That hometown connection, along with expanded technology, economic development and business growth, should keep Parsons Roofing in the area for another century. ■

Related links: parsonsroof.com @parsons.roofing

... I had worked in the roofing industry for years and was disheartened. Every company I worked for cared about money first and the customer second.

Jay Thornton

Opposite page (left to right) Jay Thornton & Eric Abell at Parsons Roofing new office ribbon cutting. BlueLinx Completion (with before images below) The Clifton Completion (with before images above)

Before Before

Providence Group Completing Framing of Clubhouse at Waterside Community

Atlanta homebuilder and developer The Providence Group and its joint venture partner East Jones Bridge River Holdings, LLC have announced that framing is nearing completion on the clubhouse in their Waterside community. The neighborhood is located one mile from The Forum on Peachtree Parkway.

The Providence Group is completing the framing of the 7,000+ square-foot community clubhouse

that features a large gathering area, card room, catering kitchen and conference room on the first level. The basement level has a state-ofthe-art fitness center, aerobics room and massage rooms.

Additional amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, pickleball courts and walking trails that wind along the .7 mile frontage of the river and throughout the community.

“Waterside is the epitome of luxury and lifestyle near the heart of Peachtree Corners Town Center,” said Ty White with East Jones Bridge River Holdings. “We are thrilled to celebrate the construction progress of the community clubhouse for this community.”

including The Forum and Peachtree Corners Town Center.

Waterside’s initial phase of development focused on single family detached homes as well as two-story front entry townhomes and three-story rear-entry townhomes. The single family homes feature owners’ suites on main, or offer optional elevators, and are priced from the $700s. There are three quick detached home move-in opportunities.

Several of the townhome designs also include optional elevators. There are eight quick move-in townhome opportunities priced from the $600s.

condo prices start in the mid $400s to the high $500s.

A future phase of the Waterside community is planned to include independent living, assisted living and memory care facilities for owners 55 and older. ■

Related links: watersidepeachtreecorners.com/ lifestyle-amenities/

By PCM Staff

Set along the shores of the Chattahoochee River, Waterside is designed to provide multiple housing options for those looking for true age-in-place living. It is located just off East Jones Bridge Road, so the community is convenient to quick interstate access as well as shopping, dining and entertainment venues,

Construction is nearing completion on the first condominium building, featuring unique one-, two- and three-bedroom condos with private garages and no shared corridors. These homes range from 1,500 to 2,500 square feel, all on one level, with open concept designs.

Model homes showcasing these home designs are planned to be completed in March. Waterside

Renderings of the clubhouse and amenities at Waterside.

(Courtesy of The Providence Group)

Tim Perry

Peachtree Corners State of the City Address

A decade of good management has resulted in brighter prospects and bigger plans.

As one of the most substantially enhanced playground systems in the county, it has spiral slides, bridges, game panels and obstacle climbers, according to the manufacturer. The size of this commercial-grade structure permits it to entertain groups of more than 100 children.

The multi-leveled playhouse section boasts six slides: five tube slides and one open-aired spiral slide. Kids can dash between the slides along the various bridges. When they’re not involved in high-octane activity, they can make music on the chime panel or marvel at the gear panel.

“There are places for parents to sit, and there will be a permanent shade structure once it comes in,” said Gratwick.

Residential, retail development

With a decade of smart growth and responsible stewardship under its belt, the city of Peachtree Corners released its annual State of the City address online, just before the end of 2022. As a leader in incubating new technology, it’s no wonder that one of the most prosperous fruits of what is quickly being called the “Silicon Orchard” has decided to use a new method of disseminating information about its future.

Through a video link, shared through email addresses of residents and stakeholders and accessible through the Peachtree Corners website, officials provided information about the city’s growth and development. They included transparency about issues that have emerged and how they are being dealt with.

Everyone is invited to take a tour of the city with Mayor Pro Tem Weare Gratwick and learn more about the construction, recreation, infrastructure, education and redevelopment projects that have been completed — and to find out what is on the horizon for Peachtree Corners.

“We’ve been a city for 10 years and have a lot to show for it,” said Mayor Mike Mason in the video’s introduction. “For those of you who

remember the “PTC Yes!” campaign, the theme was ‘We’re at the tipping point,’ meaning we needed to act to give our community the tools to control our own destiny.

“At that time, our city was literally at the tipping point of decline,” he explained. “Property values were stagnant, companies were moving out, and the area was starting to show its age. There were still a lot of great things about Peachtree Corners, and by focusing on a balanced approach to redevelopment, public safety and quality of life, we’ve tipped things back towards progress and continue to maintain a zero-city tax rate for all of us.”

Mason and other city leaders don’t take all the credit for the city’s success.

“There’s a lot to be proud of. And it’s not just due to a great city council, but to the balanced approach to new development and redevelopment that we followed for the past 10 years,” Mason concluded.

Updated vision

“As most of you may know, most of the development in this area was done by a gentleman named Paul Duke during the 70s and 80s. After 50 years, things were starting to look a little in need of redevelop-

ment,” said Mason. “So that’s why, since the very beginning, we’ve adopted a balanced approach, with some new development and some redevelopment to our efforts.”

The enhanced park is just one amenity that encourages increased residential, and therefore retail and commercial, growth. Gratwick pointed out that The Forum, a hub of development has become the city’s largest revitalization project.

“It is really hard to believe The

Mason pointed out that nothing stays shiny and new forever, and that’s why carrying out the vision and adjusting it as needed for the future is a cornerstone of economic development in Peachtree Corners.

Gratwick started his city tour at the Town Green where the new playground equipment was installed this year. To say it has been a big hit is an understatement. It was designed for children aged 5 to 12 and includes some equipment specifically for special needs children.

Forum is over 20 years old now and in need of some attention. Vacancies had gotten to 25% and were threatening to go higher. Everyone agreed we needed to do something to save it,” he said.

After North American Properties purchased the site, there was a difference of opinion about the role housing should play in the redevelopment plan, specifically apartment housing.

Continued on page 64

Mayor Pro Tem Weare Gratwick (left) and Mayor Mike Mason

The Forum top left, Town Center right.

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Advocating in a Different Way

Lorri Christopher will not seek reelection, but will remain active in the community and wants to pave the way for the next generation of local leadership.

When it comes to Peachtree Corners City Post 5 Councilmember Lorri Christopher, her actions speak for her. Not one to raise a ruckus, her four decades as a resident of the area before it became a city had been chock full of leadership in business, education and community service.

With all she has accomplished, it shouldn’t be a surprise that this 80-year-old woman with the stamina of the Energizer Bunny has decided she won’t be running for re-election when her term expires in 2024.

“I’m not going to stop advocating for the city,” she said. “I’ll still be Lorri Christopher. I just won’t be a city councilmember.”

A life filled with achievements and successes

Christopher’s bio on the Peachtree Corners website points to a career brimming with numerous titles. Here are a few:

■ Principal in CAP Associates, a human resources consulting firm,

■ Computer Information Systems (CIS) Faculty Program and IA Director at Gwinnett Technical College,

■ Trustee of the Gwinnett Senior Leadership program,

■ Former IT Project Manager for the 1996 Olympics,

■ High school Math and Science teacher,

■ Management Information System (MIS) Director and CIS Program Chair at Trident College,

■ COO of Atlanta Desktop,

■ Co-president of United Mortgage Company,

■ Marketing Director of Right Associates,

■ Vice President at Midland Associates,

leadership positions at DCA and Burroughs/Unisys, and

■ Founding Director of Paces Bank & Trust.

Christopher has been well recognized through the years. She is a recipient of the 21st Century Award from The International Alliance, Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) award and the Triumph Inspiration 21st Century Woman Award. Christopher is also a member of the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Academy of Women Achievers. Her accomplishments include service for community, business and charity organizations. Christopher served on the leadership committee for the Center for the Study of the Presidency, chaired the Gwinnett County March of Dimes and served on the Georgia Alliance for Children Board.

She is a member of several chambers of commerce, including the Gwinnett, Hispanic, Southwest Gwinnett and Atlanta chambers, as well as the Gwinnett Village Alliance Board. Christopher is a past officer of Fox Hill homeowners’ association and a member-volunteer for United Peachtree Corners Civic Association (UPCCA), Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) and the Peachtree Corners Festival.

Then there’s her education. Currently a Ph.D. candidate in Information Systems at Nova Southeastern University, Christopher holds an MBA in Business and Finance at Emory University, an MBA in Global Ecommerce from Georgia State University and a BA in Mathematics and Chemistry from State University of New York. She has additional graduate studies in CIS at Georgia Tech and Education at Hofstra University — and she holds a number of professional certifications.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Photo by George Hunter

■ Vice President of Finance and Management Information System (MIS) for Edwards, Inc.,

■ Marketing and technical

“I worked in Peachtree Corners in the 70s and 80s in the Summit Building. Our technology firm, Boris, was located there where we developed financial applications for the world …we had over 400 people

in that facility,” she told Peachtree Corners Magazine in a 2019 podcast. “So, I’ve seen Tech Park when it was at its heyday. I’ve seen it since, and it is so exciting with what’s happening now.”

She added that seeing the vision that she and several others had for the area during the cityhood movement more than a decade ago now coming to fruition makes the hard work worth it.

A vision that’s blossoming

Besides the business growth and economic development, Christopher said she is proud that the city has remained one of the few that doesn’t collect property taxes from its homeowners. And instead of building a city hall right off the bat, Peachtree Corners officials chose to turn the Town Center property into a place for people to gather and be together.

“We’ve worked really hard at keeping the millage zero and being fiscally responsible,” she said.

Christopher is a pioneer in her own right, blazing a path in Information Technology when women were often relegated to administrative support roles instead of heading departments.

After college, she’d gone back home to Charleston, S.C. and was offered a position as Chief Financial Officer and IT Director for a chain of stores where she’d worked as a cashier in her youth. Even back then, Christopher realized that she didn’t have to tell anyone what she could do — she just had to show them.

That’s what she hopes for the future of Peachtree Corners. She doesn’t want future leaders judged by anything more than their cre -

dentials.

It’s that kind of stewardship that Christopher said she’s looking for in her successor. She has someone in mind but insists that she’ll back anyone who has the knowledge, passion and energy to continue the work that was begun more than a decade ago.

Christopher hopes someone will bring Peachtree Corners into its next phase with diversity and inclusion. “I’d like there to be more people who don’t look like me involved in city government,” she said. “I think it’s important that we do everything we can to make sure that we’re an inclusive city.”

Passing the baton

From the outside looking in, many people may not see the pockets of need in this seemingly affluent area.

Christopher would like the city to start receiving federal funds to pay for things like a homeless shelter.

“We don’t have a plan for people that are indigent,” she said recalling a section of Spring Drive that had no streetlights for seven years. “It took too long to get lights there and that subdivision has over 200 homes,” she said.

Even though it’s impressive to gather a list of titles, Christopher stressed she does what she does because it’s the right thing to do — and she wants to see the city continue doing what’s right.

“I don’t want to be one of those people who die in office,” she said. “The City of Peachtree Corners is going to go on long, long after I’m gone. I see my decision as making room for another person.” ■

Lorri Christopher in 2021 received the “Rotarian of The Year Award” and within days she was one of seven winners (out of 90 finalists) named in Gwinnett Chamber’s annual Moxie Awards. Lorri received the “Greater Good Award” from the chamber in August 2021. (Photo courtesy of the City of Peachtree Corners)

Sports Bar Celebrates 10 Years of Community Commitment

Three

Dollar Café’s quality, service and dedication have kept it a staple throughout metro Atlanta for 40 years and locally for a decade.

Don’t come to Three Dollar Café expecting cheap food. The name doesn’t reflect the prices or the quality, but the desire of an immigrant to find his piece of the American dream.

Joe Woo, a co-owner of the Peachtree Corners location, is the son of the original Mr. Woo who

came to America in 1979 with three dollars in his pocket. (See what he did there?) By 1983, Mr. Woo opened his first restaurant in Sandy Springs. To pay homage to his struggles and commitment to keep the business going, he named it Three Dollar Café.

Although the Peachtree Corners location isn’t the original, it has the same family-oriented spirit and commitment to fresh, well-made pub grub as the first restaurant founded 40 years ago.

There are currently nine locations with a tenth one set for

By Arlinda Smith Broady Photos by George Hunter

Buford in the near future.

Café grows with the city

When the restaurant on Peachtree Corners came online in February 2013, Peachtree Corners had just become a city. The strip mall location was being re-imaged from a Kroger grocery store and some nearby landmarks, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Since then, Three Dollar Café has grown with the city and served many metro Atlanta favorites, like its famous, award-winning wings and a variety of burgers, sandwiches, wraps and appetizers — all made fresh.

“It was cool that someone purchased this property and had a vision to make it what it is now,”

said Joe Woo. “They realized that there was a lot of traffic on 141 and that if people had a place to stop, it could be a good fit.”

As the city grew, the location grew, and so did the relationships with families in the area.

“We’ve just always been here. And as part of the community, we participated in community events like the Peachtree Corners Festival,” Woo said.

Quality and consistency earn high ratings

Although a decade may not seem long, it is in the restaurant industry. One of Three Dollar Café’s testaments to longevity is its quality and consistency. When others were scrambling to keep the

doors open during the pandemic, Woo said he and his staff stayed focused on good food and good service.

“I think the neighborhood appreciates that we kept things consistent. Our goal is to provide really good, high-quality food with good service by getting food out really quick,” he said. “I think how we fared during the pandemic is indicative of the quality of service that we provide, but it’s also indicative of the quality of food we provide.”

Woo pointed out that followers of digital media brand Eater Atlanta have rated Three Dollar Café’s chicken wings best in the metro. He added that the restaurant also gets consistently high marks from

food blogs and media outlets.

He added that, at the end of the day, Three Dollar Café is just a casual place where people can sit down, whether for a lunch meeting, dinner with a family or later in the evening to catch a game and have a drink at the bar.

Using successes to move forward

Although he just recently came on board, Woo’s partner Jeff Jang agreed wholeheartedly. The décor reflects hometown sports favorites, whether they’re pros, colleges or local high schools.

“We see a lot of kids come in with their families in their baseball or soccer uniforms and it’s nice that we may see them in a

few years bringing their own kids in with similar uniforms on,” said Jang.

Woo is turning more of the dayto-day operation to Jang, who has renewed vision for the establishment. “During the pandemic we did a lot more take out, and we’re looking to maintain that,” said Jang.

“We’re also looking into more catering. There are so many businesses and office parks nearby, our menu can easily accommodate more catering,” he added. ■

Related links and information:

Three Dollar Café Peachtree Corners 6050 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners 770-441-8520 facebook.com/ThreeDollarCafe141

Opposite page, James Woo and Jeff Jang

Great Spaces for Your Next Event

Two great local restaurants that were featured in Southwest Gwinnett Magazine

Aomi Japanese Restaurant

aomijapanese.com

ple can be accommodated in the restaurant. A buyout option is contingent upon the size, start time and duration of your party.

Manager Scott Choi suggested grouping guests according to food allergies or sensitivities so one grill can prepare vegetarian meals only, for example. Business hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; they’re open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Aomi often delivers to places of business during the week.

Imperial Fez Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge

imperialfezrestaurant.com

Aomi at the Forum serves up dinner and a show, consisting of chefs skillfully wielding spatulas during a sort of live cooking show enhanced by a pyrotechnic performance as guests look on tableside. It’s Japanese cuisine on fire — literally. Hibachi means “fire bowl.” Watch as steak, chicken, salmon and lobster are prepared on the hibachi grill with fried rice.

A sushi bar is also part of the Aomi experience during both lunch and dinner. They prepare all your favorites like sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri and udon noodle dishes.

“What’s special about a hibachi party is the social aspect of a large group getting together to have really amazing food and creating memories at the same time. It’s entertainment. We provide the best quality we can,” said Manager Kenny Park.

Gather by the fire to eat and drink

You can have up to 110 guests around different hibachi tables sectioned off for your private event. Parties of up to 140 peo-

After a 30-year stint in Buckhead, Imperial Fez Mediterranean Restaurant moved to Berkley Lake. The OTP crowd gained a sensory escape to the faraway sights, sounds, aromas and flavors of North Africa.

Loyal Buckhead patrons willingly head northeast now for the unique ambiance, authentic Moroccan cuisine, excellent service and exotic entertainment they’d long enjoyed. What an exciting and surprising way to be able to fête in Southwest Gwinnett!

Have your next meeting or celebration at Imperial Fez and journey to Morocco for two hours with up to 125 of your dearest friends and loved ones. Private rooms are available for your special occasions, like The Rabat for intimate gatherings of up to 15 people or The Marrakesh room for a party of 30-35 guests. Larger parties of up to 70 can be accommodated in The Casa Blanca room.

Patio space is also available. Sit on low, lounge-style seating with pillows and sofas or at regular tables, chairs and booths.

Amidst the ethnic décor of richly colored fabrics and intricate patterns, you’ll encounter traditional Moroccan cuisine and hospitality.

I spoke to Chef and Owner Rita Benjelloun, who along with her husband, fellow Chef and Owner Rafih, takes great pride in sharing their customs.

Leave your shoes and worries at the door. Your five-course meal begins with a tableside washing-ofthe-hands ritual. Using a “tass,” an ornate sliver kettle and bowl set, a server pours warm rose water from the kettle onto your hands as you wash. The matching silver bowl catches the water below. Utensils are abandoned in favor of using your hands to consume the savory meal.

Shake it up

Indulge in dishes like Lamb Tajine, Chicken Kabobs, Couscous, Lemon Pepper Crispy Pompano and Roasted Pheasant with pomegranate sauce. Enjoy the meal as belly dancers move fluidly about with travel-

ing steps and turns, entertaining diners as they accent the beat of the Middle Eastern music with staccato hip movements and relaxed shoulder shimmies. For all that may seem foreign at Imperial Fez, familiar favorites like a full bar and VIP tables are also available. “A wide range of foods, including Caesar Salad and Mediterranean dishes with an Italian and Spanish influence, are also on the menu. It’s not just Moroccan food,” Benjelloun said.

Special dietary needs, including Halal, can be accommodated. Benjelloun recommends at least three to four days’ notice for a weekday event, and as much advance notice as possible for weekend parties, as that is when they’re busiest. Imperial Fez is open Wednesday to Saturday, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and parties can be booked on any day. ■

This excerpt was published in the September/October 2022 issue of Southwest Gwinnett Magazine. Writing by Patrizia Winsper and photography by George Hunter.

Continued from page 56

“In the end, a majority of the council felt additional housing was necessary to create the energy needed to support and improve our shops and restaurants at the Forum and offset the headwinds of changes in retail that have been accelerating since the pandemic,” said Gratwick.

■ Phase one of North American Properties’ plan includes enhancements to the middle of The Forum where it will relocate parking and create interactive community spaces, including a small green space and a food hall with outdoor seating.

■ Phase two will include new apartments which will be located behind the landscaping off Peachtree Parkway. This landscaping will remain in place with apartments behind where the pavement stops.

■ Phase three will include a new boutique hotel.

Public Meeting: Peachtree Corners Comprehensive Planning

The City will be hosting a community meeting to solicit input from the public on its 2045 Comprehensive Plan.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, Feb. 23rd at 7 pm in the Community Chest room at City Hall, 310 Technology Pkwy.

Meeting topics will include Housing (Apartments, Single and Multi-family Homes, Rental Properties, etc.), Trails, Transportation, and Land Uses.

This will be the first in a series of meetings. A subsequent community meeting will be held at the Peachtree Corners Town Center on Saturday, May 13th.

Gratwick went on to emphasis that a city can’t have a “no apartments zone” and that Peachtree Corners City Council is looking at every proposed housing project on it individual merits and how it fits into the city’s master plan.

“There is a state mandated requirement that every city rewrite its land use plan every 10 years,” said Gratwick. The city is in the midst of a development survey and needs as much input as possible. There will be community forums

annually in Peachtree Corners. While that is a huge boon to the city, it means a lot to the surrounding area as well.

“We are approaching a point where we will have more jobs in the city than residents, which is a sign of a healthy, vibrant community,” said Gratwick. “Of course, with that comes challenges; we will need to continue …to meet the right balance of growth and preservation of things that make us the great city to live in now.”

To add to the employment growth, the city created Curiosity Lab as a smart technology incubator. It has attracted numerous businesses and thousands of jobs.

took over half of Curiosity Lab’s design space to further develop its SkyTy drone solution, according to a press release. The goal is to tie reinforcing bar (rebar) at construction sites almost two and half times faster, 32% cheaper and with 84% less labor than manual rebar tying.

Gratwick also highlighted Pipedream Labs, a company that is testing an innovative underground delivery system. The company has leased space in the development and will be testing the delivery of packages and food.

Quality of life

and online surveys where residents and stakeholders are encouraged to learn more about the process.

Jobs here help neighboring economies

Perhaps the most highly anticipated project in recent years is Intuitive Surgical bringing its East Coast headquarters to Peachtree Corners. The robotic-assisted surgery technology company is bringing more than 1,200 jobs with an average salary of over $130,000. It is investing more than $600 million to create a state-of-the-art medical campus that will bring visitors who will fill the 19,000 hotel rooms used

“Curiosity Lab was founded when our staff discovered there was a missing second step in the evolution of technology, particularly with autonomous vehicles,” said Gratwick. “There was the initial phase, the controlled lab, the crawl space, if you will, and the run space which would be active in users, but there wasn’t a place to test with variables in place.”

Curiosity Lab sets Peachtree Corners apart from most other cities because of its 5G enabled living laboratory for testing and developing smart city Internet of Things (IoT) and mobility. Gratwick mentioned two companies that are making important strides.

SkyMul has created software to provide drones with the ability to remotely tie together rebar in construction projects. The young company, headed by CEO Eohan George,

In the video, Gratwick pointed out that the city has almost completed the 1.74 mile stretch of multiuse trail along east Jones Bridge Road.

“If you recall the mayor’s presentation from last year, when he talked about the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Chattahoochee RiverLands project, this will be part of a 150-mile stretch of multi-use trails from Buford Dam all the way down to Newnan,” said Gratwick. “Our project will have a pedestrian crossing at Johns Creek.” He added that discussions are already underway with the city of Johns Creek.

Gratwick wrapped up the presentation by pointing out efforts to improve the quality of life in Peachtree Corners. Parks, trails and retail developments are obvious, and they are projects that are highly visible. He added that just as important are the components you can’t see.

“If you’ve been in Simpsonwood Park lately, you’ve probably noticed the Wolf Creek Lift Station improvement,” said Gratwick. “While this is a county project and not a city project, it is a much-needed upgrade to the sewer that serves the northwest quadrant of our city. …This is not a sexy project, but it is one that will ensure that we will have ample sewer capacity and no interruptions to service.”■

Intuitive Surgical

SkyMul

Planned entry monuments at 141 and Peachtree Industrial Blvd split.

The City has Partnered with Fusus to Launch Connect Peachtree Corners Camera Registration and Deliver New Innovative Public Safety Services

I am proud to announce that the City has partnered with a local Peachtree Corners Company, Fusus, to provide enhanced public safety services to local businesses and residents. This new partnership begins with the launch of Connect Peachtree Corners, a user “opt-in” camera registry system.

Fusus is a nationally recognized public safety technology provider that has operated out of its headquarters in Peachtree Corners since 2019.

While they may be new to us, Fusus is known in the law enforcement and public safety world for its leading-edge Real-Time Crime Center platform. In fact, it is currently in use by over 100 agencies nationwide including the Atlanta Police Department. Fusus has continued to expand its footprint due to overwhelming demand for its platform, and we are proud to be part of its expansion.

In 2020, Fusus was recognized as one of the hottest new companies in Atlanta and named one of the “50 on Fire’ by Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Atlanta Inno.

The City’s partnership will increase the efficiency of law enforcement and public safety responses, by building a community-based public safety ecosystem that allows residents and businesses in the area to directly network and contribute to the safety of our community.

According to Fusus CEO Chris Lindenau, the company is just as excited as we are about the partnership. He has stated that as a growing high-tech hub, Peachtree Corners was an obvious choice for our headquarters, and now they’re looking forward to giving back to our local community.

Connect Peachtree Corners is a tool that allows residents to voluntarily register the location of their private home security cameras. The registration of a camera does not give access to the camera to anyone. The camera registration simply allows for the creation of a city-wide camera location map for use by law enforcement. If a crime occurs in the city, law enforcement will be able to reference the map, and if they feel it is beneficial, they may contact a homeowner or business to request access to footage.

I encourage all residents to visit https://connectpeachtreecorners.org/camera-registration/ to learn more about the program, check out the frequently asked questions, and register your security cameras.

City Manager Brian Johnson has said it best when he says that as a city government, there is

nothing we take more seriously than public safety. Providing a safe environment for our citizens to live, work, learn, and play is a sacred responsibility to us. This type of partnership and camera registry program will allow us to support law enforcement with a new technology tool and will lead to increased public safety throughout the City.

The new Fusus platform and our Connect Peachtree Corners camera registry will serve as a central point for our local law enforcement and first responder agencies. It will bring all personnel and emergency operations centers under one umbrella that will provide them with video and data information and will integrate directly with 911- Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems.

As part of the Connect Peachtree Corners option for local businesses, local law enforcement will be able to geolocate their officers who will have the ability to live stream video in the field, track calls for service and better coordinate their resources.

As we move forward, the city will also be able to integrate smart cameras with artificial intelligence, a mass notification system, automated license plate readers, a multi-media community safety tips text messaging system, and a host of other utilities designed to promote community safety and collaboration with public safety resources.

We look forward to our continued partnership with local law enforcement and are proud to offer this program to our residents and allow you to become a part of our public safety community.

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.

Mike Mason, Mayor

Stay safe, Mike Mason, Mayor

Temporary Closures of Portions of the Peachtree Corners Town Center Parking Deck Through Late Spring

Beginning February 1st, 2023, portions of the parking deck located in the Peachtree Corners Town Center will be closed to perform maintenance and area improvements.

On February 1st, portions of the lower-level southernmost sections of the deck will be closed. This closure will affect the entrances immediately in front of Lazy Dog Restaurant, the entrance entering the lower deck closest to the CineBistro parking lot, and the southern ramp section in the area of the electric vehicle charging stations.

The entrance closest to CineBistro is expected to be reopened mid to late April. The remainder of the closures will continue through late Spring.

During this time, the vehicle charging stations will also be inaccessible.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Aging in Place: Helpful tips for Baby Boomers in preparing your home for physical changes

As baby boomers reach the golden years, (I’m almost there) they will need homes that will accommodate their physical challenges such as bad knees, feet, back, well you get the gist.

Here are some tips on how to design and remodel your home to meet your needs today and in the future:

■ Don’t wait until the last minute, make a plan: If you intend to live in your home into your 60s, 70s and beyond don’t wait until health challenges force you to make changes to your home. Instead, create a plan that can be implemented over time to spread the costs of your remodeling investment.

■ Get an expert opinion: Seek out licensed builders. Let them know what your particular needs may be. Licensed builders and remodelers are knowledgeable in building and remodeling homes that meet the needs of aging baby boomers or other folks with disabilities.

■ Plan for one-level living: As you remodel your home, create a plan so that everything you need is on one floor and easily accessible. This includes a bedroom, a bathroom with shower, washer and dryer, kitchen and dining area, and access to technology and communication.

■ Low-maintenance: Maintenance projects, like painting a home, cleaning the exterior side of windows, or sealing cracks and seams in your siding are physical-

ly challenging and time-consuming. When remodeling your home use low maintenance products.

■ Zero-step entry: Whether you’re maneuvering a stroller through the front door, carrying a load of groceries, or navigating a wheelchair, invest in a new, wider front door system. Consider a low-maintenance fiberglass door frame, door and lever-type handle (not door knob) for easier entry.

■ Task lighting: Add more lighting for close-up tasks such as cooking, reading, hobbies and working from home. Utilize LED lighting to minimize utility fees.

■ Remodel the bathroom: Create a ground-level bathroom for guest of any age by installing a zero-entry threshold shower base, a handheld showerhead and shower grab bars. Don’t forget to give the shower a nonskid floor treatment and to add anti-scalding protection to the sink and shower. Before you start any project in your home please contact the city’s building inspections department to verify if building permits are required. Contact the Peachtree Corners Building Department at 470-3592891

These are some basic tips, your needs may vary, remember the most important tip is to make a plan and carry it out over time.

Mark Mitchell CBO, MCP

Illicit Stormwater Discharges: You Can Prevent Stormwater Pollution In Your Neighborhood

Stormwater runoff flows from rooftops, driveways, paved roads, bare soil, and lawns into stormwater drainage systems, which include catch basins, yard inlets, pipes, ditches, ponds and streams. From the stormwater system, water is directly discharged into our creeks, rivers, lakes and ecosystems. Stormwater can pick up and transport pollutants directly to our waterways. It is important we do not put anything into the stormwater system that isn’t solely stormwater runoff.

What is an “Illicit Discharge?”

An illicit (illegal) discharge is any discharge to our stormwater drainage system that is not composed entirely of stormwater. Disposal of anything other than stormwater in storm sewers is illegal!

■ Septic Tank Seepage / Illegal Sanitary Connections

■ Washing Car & Laundry Wastewater / Detergent

■ Improper Waste Oil or Automotive Fluids Disposal

■ Home Improvement Waste (concrete, paint, solvents, sealers)

■ Pesticides and Fertilizers

■ Pet Waste

■ Pool / Spa Discharge

■ Cooking Grease / Household Waste

■ Trash and Debris

You Can Protect Water Quality by:

Never dump anything down storm drains

■ Use lawn and garden chemicals sparingly

■ Repair vehicle leaks; cover spilled fluids with kitty litter then sweep into household waste

■ Pick up after your pet

■ Plant ground cover to control soil erosion

■ Keep grass clippings, leaves, litter, and debris out of street gutters and storm drains

■ Direct downspouts onto grassy areas

■ Wash your vehicle on grass instead of the driveway

■ Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints and other household chemicals in an approved manner

To report a suspected stormwater discharge violation, call 770-513-5700, or online at: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/residents/report-an-issuefix-it

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The Best of Peachtree Corners, a Readers’ Choice Award is coming back for our June / July issue, which means our survey will begin on March 15th

Check our website, or scan the QR code to follow us on social media, where we’ll be sharing more information about the upcoming survey.

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“YES, IT’S COMING BACK.”

“FOUND ANY NEW FAVORITES?”

Jae Choi pictured left and G.Gavin pictured right