Peachtree Corners Magazine - June/July 2019 by Peachtree Corners Magazine

PEACHTREE CORNERS FESTIVAL

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

PEACHTREE CORNERS JUNE/JULY 2019 ISSUE 3

â&#x2013;

LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

MAILED TO EVERY HOUSEHOLD IN THE CITY!

SWIM MEET A Summer of Rivalries, Friendships & Family

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION Local groups help businesses come and grow

IB Programme takes local schools to an international level

POSTAL CUSTOMER

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

MORE THAN

42K ATHLETES

With the most sports medicine fellowship-trained surgeons in the state and one of the largest teams of certified athletic trainers in the country, GMC Sports Medicine has built one of the top programs not just in Georgia, but in the nation. Our team cares for more than 42,000 athletes annually, including hall-of-famers, elite high school recruits and everyday athletes. It’s this experience that we use to get athletes of all kinds not just back to the playing field, but back to peak performance.

gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/numbers peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

678-312-7880 peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

June / July 2019 â&#x2013; Peachtree Corners Magazine

770-350-7373 Meredith Blinder

Atlanta natives professionally connecting families to homes for 30+ years

Kellie Frazier

Maria Licata

Maria Licata & Associates 770-861-1009 marialicata@remax.net

Associate Broker

1835 Lockeway Dr Suite 306 Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-549-9371 www.nloans.net Neighborhood Mortgage Inc, #16837 A GA residential mortgage licensee NMLS 138234

6340 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 200 Duluth, Georgia 30097 404-566-4535 www.basattorneys.com

PEACHTREECORNERS THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS RICO FIGLIOLINI

KATHY DEAN

Publisher

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 — thanks Netflix :).

Contributing Editor

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.

DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS Writer

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

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!

JOE EARLE

MEREDITH BLINDER

Writer

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

Writer

Meredith Blinder is a Realtor with RE/MAX Around Atlanta and a native of Peachtree Corners. When she’s not serving her clients, Meredith enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading and trying out all of our community’s great restaurants.

ALAN KAPLAN

KINSEY FIGLIOLINI

Writer

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

Writer & Photographer

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

JASON GETZ

Photographer

JULIE DAVIS

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

EDITORIAL

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.

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI

Account Executive

KATHY DEAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

CONTENTS 6

EVENTS FIRST UP

BUSINESS LIFE Taking Care of Business

14 16 17 18 20

PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. 4305 River Stream CIrcle, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678-358-7858 | editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com Peachtree Corners Magazine is published four times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or or does not fit in our guidelines. June/July 2019 issue / Volume 1 Number 3 ©2019 Peachtree Corners Magazine The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com.

This publication is privately owned and operated.

Swim Meet: A Summer of Rivalries, Friendship & Family Swimmer Profile: Aidan Rickaby Swimmer Profile: Emma Sass MOVE Norcross High School Graduate Inducted into Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame KNOWLEDGE World-Class Education

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE Norcross HS Foundation for Excellence Gala

PEACHTREE CORNERS FESTIVAL PULLOUT Peachtree Corners Festival Brings Smiles and Lasting Memories

COMMUNITY A Place to Remember and to Interact with History

BELIEVE Important Lessons

KNOWLEDGE Pinckneyville MS Kids Headed for Odyssey of the Mind World Championship

SPACE The Mansions at Sandy Springs Opens Soon

OFFICIAL CITY NEWS

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE Peachtree Corners Town Center Opening

JULIE DAVIS julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

COVER - MOVE

Inside Peachtree Corners

June/July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

FIRST UP IMPORTANT DATES Father’s Day — June 16 Independence Day— July 4

Peachtree Corners Festival June 7-9

6025 The Corners Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-367-3127 peachtreecornersfestival.com

A Friday night concert kicks off the 9th annual Peachtree Corners Festival. The weekend features arts and crafts, classic cars and motorcycles, tasty food, live music, carnival rides and more.

Voice of Hospitality

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do a wooden keepsake together. Pre-register by June 10 (code: PVP31407) or call 678-277-0920. $12 for father and son; $6 each additional child.

Southwest Gwinnett WordPress Meet Up Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Parkway Northwest, Peachtree Corners 30092 404-797-1221 atlantatechpark.com Hosted by the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, this group meets the second Tuesday of every month to help and support people who use WordPress at any level.

The Princess and the Pea July 10-14

Lionheart Theatre Company 10 College Street, Norcross 30071 678-938-8518 lionhearttheatre.org

Veterans Monument Games on the Dedication Green

Atlanta Tech Park

June 15, 10 a.m.

107 Technology Parkway Northwest, Peachtree Corners 30092

The Town Green monument that remembers and honors our veterans opens with a dedication.

404-797-1221 atlantatechpark.com Innovations Domain, LLC, in partnership with Atlanta Tech Park and Score Publishing, hosts the second meetup in a series on how to identify, explore and tackle strategic business problems that can be fixed through the Acceleration + Application + Adoption of “Voice First” Innovation.

June 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Pickneyville Park

4758 South Old Peachtree Road, Norcross 30071

Family Field Day June 15, 2-6 p.m.

Get out for a day of fun in the sun with family and friends. This free event features activities like tug of war, sack racing and inflatable ax throwing. After a prince is unable to find a princess to marry, one comes knocking at the front door. The queen is doubtful and sets a test for the would-be princess bride. Will she pass or fail? The classic Hans Christian Andersen tale has been adapted for the stage by Pat Rosenthal. ■

678-277-0920 GwinnettParks.com Share a special evening and light refreshments while creating

Throughout the summer, Town Green will be central to a host of activities — from concerts and films to fireworks and yoga. Town Green - 5140 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners 30092 peachtreecornersga.gov

June 18 & July 16, 7-9 p.m.

June 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Father-Son Woodworking Night

Town Green Calendar

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Yoga on the Green Tuesdays through August 27, 8-9 a.m.

Sun Dragon Yoga (sundragonyoga. com) invites everyone, from beginners to experienced yogis, to attend a free class. Wear comfortable clothes, bring water, a small towel and a mat, if you have one. After class, relax with snacks provided by Sleep Number.

peachtreecornerslife

Fridays, June through August, 8-11 a.m.

Residents are invited to get together and enjoy playing cornhole, checkers and more every Friday morning through August.

Flicks on the Green First Saturdays, June through October, 7 p.m. June 1 — The Little Mermaid July 6 — Stuart Little August 3 — The Incredibles Bring a blanket or low-profile lawn chair and experience movies under the stars. Everyone is invited to carry in a picnic basket with food from their favorite Town Center restaurants. Vendors will be selling popcorn and other treats. peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights

Summer Concert Series Last Saturdays, June and July, 5:30-10 p.m.

June 29 Concert on the Green: Queen Nation, and Fireworks Queen Nation, a tribute band, performs Queen classics including “We Will Rock You” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” At dark, fireworks light up the sky in celebration of Independence Day.

July 27 — Departure The most respected Journey tribute band in the nation brings the best of the 80’s rock supergroup to Peachtree Corners. Food vendors and lawn games open at 5:30 p.m. Opening act starts at 7 p.m. and headliner hits the stage at 8 p.m.

It’s a Puppet Show!

Check out the website, gwinnettpl.org, and click on the Calendar link for more.

Harry Potter Astronomy Class

Gwinnett County Public Library, Peachtree Corners Branch 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-978-5154 gwinnettpl.org

Summer Reading Kick-off: Science Tellers

July 13, 1:30 p.m. The GCPL Puppeteers perform a hilarious, antic-filled puppet show for kids aged 4+.

July 24, 4 p.m. Teens in grades 6 to 12 learn about the 88 recognized constellations as they make an LED embroidered constellation.

To the Moon and Back Magic Show July 25, 3 p.m.

June 6, 10:30 a.m.

Live on the Green Series

Monthly, Saturdays through October, 7-9 p.m. June 22 — ◄ Emily Hackett July 20 —

dishes and craft beer off their back patio.

Things really heat up at the library during the summer months. Besides the Summer Reading Program, there are shows, clubs, classes and other activities to keep everyone’s mind active.

▼The Mar-Tans Enjoy the music of up and coming artists while visiting with friends on the Town Green. Farm Burger will be selling their favorite

The Summer Reading Program continues through August 12. To participate, sign up/log in to Beanstack at gwinnettpl.beanstack. org/reader365 and join the Summer Reading Program 2019. Participants will read books and attend events to earn points that can be redeemed for prizes throughout the summer. Everyone who reaches their personal goal is invited to come to the branch for the completion prize and to enter the Grand Prize drawings.

SAVE THE DATE

Summer Chess Club

Thursdays starting June 6 through the summer, 6 p.m. Learn the basics of chess and improve your game. All ages and skill levels welcome.

Underground Gwinnett Please check the city website for up-to-date schedule of events https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov Please note that the Town Green public restrooms are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Comedy magician Ken Scott brings music, magic and more to this performance for kids ages 5 and up.

June 17, 1-3 p.m. Archeologists from the Georgie Department of Natural Resources will discuss archeology and historic preservation in Gwinnett County.

Gwinnnett County Public Library Foundation will hold their annual fundraising gala, Puttin’ on the Litz, on October 19 at the Infinite Energy Center in Duluth. To find out more, go to eventbrite.com and search for ‘Puttin on the Litz’.

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BUSINESS LIFE

Taking Care of Business Local groups help businesses come and grow

ith more than 2,300 businesses, including some of metro Atlanta’s top firms and the regional headquarters of national and international companies, the Peachtree Corners/ Norcross area is in the top 10 economic engines in metro Atlanta. So says the chairman of the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce (SWGC), one of two local organizations devoted to keep that engine roaring. SWGC works to build a healthy economy and

By Donna Williams Lewis FEATURE PHOTOS BY MARK MCGOVERN

improve qualiutive founding ty of life in the member. Most of tri-cities area Peachtree Corof Peachtree ners’ businesses Corners, are small, with Berkeley Lake 50 employees or and Norcross. less, Proctor said. “The “We realize chamber was they don’t have founded on all the resources the ABC’s,” the Fortune 500 SWGC Chaircompanies have, man Weare so we are buildGratwick said. ing networking “Advocate, and member opWeare Gratwick Build and portunities that Connect.” will bring those The other organization, the resources in,” she said. “We are Peachtree Corners Business Astrying to build real relationships, sociation (PCBA), was launched rather than just that drive-by with five key initiatives, includnetworking event.” ing giving businesses a unified Both of these organizations voice and making it easier for the began in 2012, the same year business community to interact Peachtree Corners was incorpowith the city, said Lisa Proctor, rated. The city born of technology the group’s president and execsays its robust business commu-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

nity is one of the reasons it can offer a full-service government that charges no property taxes — residential or commercial. PCBA and SWGC are working to keep it that way.

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

SWGC Chairman Weare Gratwick is regional president-Atlanta of Colony Bank and Mayor Pro Tem on the Peachtree Corners City Council. He’s been a city resident for 24 years. Except for its paid director of sales and member services, Beth Coffey, the chamber is a volunteer organization with currently about 170 member companies. Its 23-member Board of Directors meets quarterly. A dozen of those members serve on an executive committee that meets monthly with Gratwick and Coffey. peachtreecornerslife

Jason West, program manager of the Gwinnett County Environmental Heritage Center, as Button Gwinnett in celebration of the county’s bicentennial, spoke at First Friday at the Hilton with SWGC members. (Photo by SWGC member Bruce Johnson)

There are two ways There are two ways to sell a business. to sell a business. The hard way.

The Transworld way.

Steven Carse, CEO of King of Pops, was the featured speaker at a PCBA event. From left are Lisa Proctor, Sharon Knox-Tucker, Steven Carse, Allison Reinert and Darrell Creedon. (Courtesy of Peachtree Corners Business Association.)

The chairman is especially July’s first Friday will be a proud of the group’s continuity of Mayors’ Panel, featuring the mayleadership. Every one of its past ors of all three cities in the SWGC chairs, who serve one-year terms, region. has remained involved on a past Twice a year the chamber chairs board. provides a leadership program SWGC promotes area business“for business owners and loweres, represents them at governor mid-level rising stars” in small ment meetings and brings them to mid-sized companies, Gratwick together in a variety of ways. said. “We want to fill those gaps Weekly where compaConnect Over nies may not Coffee meetings provide those are informal services directnetworking ly,” he said. sessions where SWGC probusinesses can vides an avenue learn about for volunteereach other. ing, supports “First Friday community Breakfast” programs and meetings usuhas aided a vaally draw about riety of school 50 to 100 people programs such and feature as, along with Lisa Proctor speakers that PCBA, the have included Rotary Club Gwinnett County Public Schools of Peachtree Corners’ Career Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks; Exploration Night for high school Gwinnett County Commission seniors. Chairwoman Charlotte Nash; and Through its Project Curb Jason West, program manager Appeal, the chamber has taken on of the Gwinnett County Envitwo medians on Peachtree Indusronmental Heritage Center, who trial Boulevard — from Holcomb spoke to the chamber as Button Bridge Road to Paul Duke STEM Gwinnett in celebration of the county’s bicentennial. Continued on page 10

Sell Your Business the Transworld Way.

we do. Good entrepreneurs do it themselves.

You’re an entrepreneur and used to doing things

Great entrepreneurs delegate efficiently.

yourself. But some things are better left to the

The best entrepreneurs enlist help from Transworld.

experts. At Transworld Business Advisors, we

Call for a free business valulation. Transworld

Sell Your Business maintain a pool of buyers in search of the right the Transworld Way. opportunity and a large inventory of available

Business Advisors — Experts in the business of business ownership.

businesses. We’re experienced and great at what

You’re an entrepreneur and used to doing things yourself. But some things are better left to the experts. At Transworld Business Advisors, we |maintain a pool of buyers 800.205.7605 tworld.com in search of the right opportunity and a large inventory of available businesses. We’re experienced and great at what we do. Good entrepreneurs do it themselves. Great entrepreneurs delegate efficiently. The best entrepreneurs enlist help from Transworld. Call for a free business valuation. Transworld Business Advisors Experts in the business of business ownership.

ANN BARHAM

KARL BARHAM

770-766-9855

■

kbarham@tworld.com

Website: www.tworld.com/atlantapeachtree Facebook: @TransworldBusinessAdvisorsAtlantaPeachtree Twitter: @TBAAtlantaPeach

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Continued from page 9

High School — for more maintenance and beautification than the county can provide. “We would like to expand that program north on Peachtree Industrial through Berkeley Lake,” Gratwick said. “We’re filling needs in business and the community and helping support our local schools.”

Peachtree Corners Business Association

PCBA President Lisa Proctor is the president and CEO of executive search and consulting services firm Sanford Rose Associates — Lake Lanier Islands. She’s lived in Peachtree Corners for more than 25 years. PCBA is all-volunteer, with about 200 member companies and 575 company representative members across metro Atlanta. In addition to connecting its members, the group recommends member businesses to others and seeks to promote integrity — all through networking meetings, social events, member education and a speaker series. One recent speaker was Steven Carse who co-founded the King of Pops frozen treats business with his brother Nick in 2010 after he was laid off from

his corporate job during the Great Recession. PCBA also supports community activities and charitable organizations. “We’re not a civic organization, but this is a great way for a lot of us to be involved with our community,” Proctor said. “At least once a month we hand out a check to one of our local scholarship recipients or local 501C3s that need support.” PCBA keeps metrics on membership trends, including why businesses close or move out of the city. “We’re not going to solve every problem in the world, but … we want the group to be accessible and for companies to feel comfortable, so we understand the resources they need,” Proctor said. One of those problems led to a new program called the PCBA Lunch Club, which was launched in May. Proctor knows of one restaurant whose owner said sales dropped by more than $3,000 a week after the city’s new Town Center opened in April, with Farm Burger, Marlow’s Tavern and Firebirds Wood Fired Grill among its current and “opening soon” tenants. Through the Lunch Club, PCBA member restaurants are

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

filling empty seats by offering discounts to fellow PCBA members and their guests, Proctor said. “We have to be Switzerland,” Proctor said. “We cannot play favorites with any of the businesses. “Everyone’s so excited about the new Town Center, and that’s good,” she said. “We’re making sure that we are listening to the established restaurants and (working on) what we can do to encourage people not to forget them.” ■

peachtreecornerslife

PCBA Board and Committee members, from left, include Jeff Fairchild, Siobhan Seidner, Laura McMichael, Sharon Knox-Tucker, Lisa Proctor, Allison Reinert, Janice Crosby, Maria Chininis and Darrell Creedon. (Courtesy of Peachtree Corners Business Association)

Gwinnett County Commission Chairwoman Charlotte Nash (center) (add space here) spoke to SWGC members at a recent First Friday event at the Hilton. (Photo by SWGC member Bruce Johnson)

peachtreecornerslife

SOUTHWEST GWINNETT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

World-Class Marketing | World-Class Service

107 Atlanta Technology Parkway, Suite 412, Peachtree Corners 30092 Phone: 678-906-4078 Web: southwestgwinnettchamber.com

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

Upcoming events: Friday, May 31 — Connect Over Coffee - A networking event held weekly on Fridays from 8:30-9:30 a.m. except on the first Friday of the month. Free admission. Atlanta Bread Company at The Forum, 4880 Peachtree Corners Circle, Peachtree Corners. No registration. Friday, June 7 — First Friday Breakfast featuring Stan Hall, executive director of the Gwinnett Sports Commission and the Gwinnett Championship Foundation. Monthly speaker event held mainly on first Fridays from 7:30-9 a.m. Hilton Atlanta Northeast, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners. $30 members; $40 non-members; $5 early registration discount; $20 discount for “first timers.” Register at southwestgwinnettchamber.com. Tuesday, June 11 — Launch Your Membership Marketing - A free class for members on how to expand their business visibility and maximize their membership. The class is held, by reservation, on second and fourth Tuesdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the chamber’s office. Register at southwestgwinnettchamber. com.

Passionate about serving our community. Passionate about serving you!

PEACHTREE CORNERS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

ALAN K A PLA N

4989 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 200, Peachtree Corners 30092 Phone: 678-969-3385 Web: peachtreecornersba.com

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

Upcoming events: Thursday, June 6 — PCBA Business After Hours Networking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at CMX Cinebistro. $30 on day of the event. Advance registration is $20 for members, $25 for guests. Includes appetizers and drink. Register at peachtreecornersba.com.

©MMXIX Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Second Tuesdays monthly — Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup. This networking event is held from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at varying locations. Free admission. Thursday, July 25 – PCBA Business After Hours Networking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Details at peachtreecornersba.com/events. Thursday, Aug. 22 — Sixth annual Island Castaways’ Beach Charity Party. 5:30-8 p.m. Location to be announced. Sponsors, volunteers and silent auction items needed. Benefits graduating students at Paul Duke STEM High School; concussion care for survivors of domestic violence living in area shelters; and local homeless families through Norcross Cooperative Ministry. For info, send an email to meetings@peachtreecornersba.com.

CMY

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BUSINESS LIFE

More Momentum in Technology Park An office portfolio consisting of three office buildings in Peachtree Corners is experiencing growth, according to CBRE First Vice President Heather Lamb. Located in the Technology Park area of Peachtree Corners, the buildings include 6625 The Corners, 5707 Peachtree and 3585 Engineering Drive. Lamb and Peter McGuone, also of CBRE, lead the leasing and marketing efforts for these buildings. According to CBRE, this new surge of activity is led by the signing of CarMax at 5707 Peachtree Parkway for more than 38,000 square feet. The space will utilize more than a third of the building for a customer experience center which will bring more than 300 jobs to Peachtree Corners. Market Force Information has expanded its global headquarters in the area. The marketing research company settled into almost 23,000 square feet at 6625 The Corners, expanding its Peachtree Corners presence by over 40 percent. LS Cable & System U.S.A. opened a new 7,000-square-foot space, also at 6625 The Corners, marking its latest expansion into this growth market. These three recent announcements account for more than 67,000 square feet of office leasing activity, as well as commitments for hundreds of new jobs in Technology Park in 2019. “Compared to neighboring markets like Central Perimeter or North Fulton, Peachtree Corners has seen relatively moderate Class-A rental rate increases over the last few years,” Lamb said. “This affordability, along with the pro-growth business environment, new retail in the area and presence of affordable housing options, make Peachtree Corners and excellent value. Activity is up in Peachtree Corners and we expect the momentum to continue.” ■

TJ Ware, founder of Single Mom Network (SMN), has experienced first-hand the challenges of growing a business while raising a child full-time. For an entrepreneur, the demands are high and non-stop. As a mother, the job is 24/7 — and for single moms, resources are very limited. Based on her experiences, TJ started the Single Mom Network to provide the resources to help other single moms grow and prosper while facing adversities. The Single Mom Network will host seminars on creating financial freedom, professional development, career building, entrepreneurship, counseling, coding and more. “Single Mom Network will be a place where dreams meet opportunity for a lot of single moms. We are committed to growing and providing a network of resources to single moms from all backgrounds,” Ware said. Get info and get inspired at facebook.com/singlemomnetwork. ■

RISE Athletic Club — Peachtree Corners Now Open Keith and Jennifer King held the grand opening of their new fitness facility, RISE Athletic Club — Peachtree Corners on May 11. “Five years ago, we decided to start on our fitness journey and take back our health,” Keith said. He and his wife were overweight and suffered from back pain. They made positive changes, which led to them dropping weight and relieving their chronic pain. Keith said it was like discovering the fountain of youth. “We found a new passion for fitness and wanted to work in an environment where we could help other people take back their health like we did,” he said. RISE Athletic Club — Peachtree Corners, 6315 Spalding Drive, Suite A, Peachtree Corners 30092, is in a location that once housed a Gold’s Gym. The Kings have done more than change the name; they’ve made improvements and brought in new equipment. To learn more, call 770209-9955 or visit facebook.com/riseathleticclubpeachtreecorners. ■

770.599.7979 Noblefin.com

$39 WHOLE

LOBSTER DINNERS

Local Business Owner Launches Program Assisting Single Moms

APM Peachtree Corners 2019 Final copy.pdf 1 3/22/2019 12:40:45 PM

APPETIZER ● LOBSTER ● DESSERT

FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS JUNE & JULY

CMY

5260 PEACHTREE PARKWAY PEACHTREE CORNERS, GA 30092

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

River Lot

New Listing

4624 River Court, Riverview Estates | $799,999

4546 Graywood Trace, North River Crossing | $465,000

Active

Under Contract

399 Holcomb Bridge Road, Historic Norcross | $335,000

5657 Cadwell Court, Peachtree Station | $475,000

3930 E. Jones Bridge Road, Suite 100, Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092

Renee Reddic

Julie Barnash

678-578-2700

770-317-3500

404-384-4886

First Friday Breakfast features a notable speaker at our monthly breakfast. Upcoming dates and Speakers:

t nec

June 7

Stan Hall, Executive Director, Gwinnett Sports Commission

July 12

The Mayors Panel, Berkeley Lake, Norcross, Peachtree Corners

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

Connect Over Coffee is our weekly morning networking group at the Atlanta Bread company at 8:30 – 9:30 am every Friday except the First Friday of each month. Join us for a casual networking session with other business professionals from around the Southwest corner of Gwinnett County.

The southwest Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors welcomed J. Alvin Wilbanks, CEO and Superintendent of the Gwinnett County Public Schools to our May First Friday Breakfast

Peachtree Corners Festival

Looking for a place to eat?

Stop by and visit us at the Peachtree Corners Festival. The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber tent will be loaded with local businesses and will have a “cool” give away for each visitor. Put your name in our bucket for a raffle prize.

Just check your phone. No app to download. Just scan the QR code (or type SWGCga.life in your browser) to go right to the interactive list of local restaurants.

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

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

COVER STORY

SWIM MEET T

A Summer of Rivalries, Friendships & Family

he start of summer can be marked by a handful of familiar sounds: water splashing, kids squealing from the chilly temperatures, coaches’ whistles, parents hustling and that infamous heat-opening honk. Yes, it’s time for summer swim team. Peachtree Corners is fielding five teams, together including hundreds of swimmers, for the Gwinnett Swim League’s competitive — but still fun — Western Division. Bragging rights, along with a sportsmanship award and invitations to the county meet, are on the line for the Fields Club, the Rapid Barracudas, the Peachtree Corners WaveRunners, Peachtree Station Piranhas and Spalding Corners Sharks, along with the Berkeley Hills Barracudas from Duluth. For Susan Brooks, Peachtree Station’s head coach, there is no better way to spend Thursday nights in the summer than when the people of the community draw her back to the pool year after year. “If I didn’t love y’all, I wouldn’t keep doing this,” Brooks said as she prepared for her 20th swim team season. Brooks was not alone in her sentiments, which echoed across teams and generations in

By Meredith Blinder Photography by Jason Getz

Peachtree Corners. Many swimmers now in high school recalled fond memories of starting swim team in their early elementary school days. Swimmers evolve and grow, becoming junior coaches and mentors to their peers. Some even become head coaches. “I’m looking forward to bringing the experience and enthusiasm that helped me stick with swim team all these years,” said Colton Kryski, who started swimming with the Rapid Barracudas about 14 years ago. He is now entering his inaugural season as the team’s head coach. “I hope to leave something behind that will stay past my years as coach.”

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Friendly competition

Spalding Corners has recently dominated the swimming landscape in Peachtree Corners: Over the last six seasons, the team has amassed a 36-0 record under co-coaches Willie Hildebrand and Kailyn Dunn. But for many in the area, even the coaches, the sport is more about personal bests and camaraderie. It’s made possible, in part, because the neighborhoods are so close together geographically, with five of the division’s six teams sharing a ZIP code. “The rivalries are more for the kids,” peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

said Jessica Sapough, the registrar for the Peachtree Corners WaveRunners. “Peachtree Corners is like a small town, so you have a meet with 350 kids, but all the kids go to the same school or are friends with the kids they’re swimming against.” Coaches said their top priorities for swimmers were to see improvement in the pool and in the kids’ confidence. Nothing, they said, beats the joy of watching young swimmers sharpen their strokes, or the celebration of a relay team that crushed its record. “It’s just as good to watch the 4- and 5-yearold make it across the pool for the first time as

it is to watch a kid going off on a college scholarship and Olympic trials,” Sapough said.

Community wide

Swim season is more than a series of summer meets; planning for the teams starts as early as January, long before people are even thinking about getting in the water, and Gwinnett Swim League requires more volunteers than many others. “It doesn’t work without the parent volunteers,” said Melanie Willenborg, team manager

“The rivalries are more for the kids,” said Jessica Sapough, the registrar for the Peachtree Corners WaveRunners. “Peachtree Corners is like a small town, so you have a meet with 350 kids, but all the kids go to the same school or are friends with the kids they’re swimming against.” Jessica Sapough Peachtree Corners WaveRunners

Continued on page 16 June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Swimmer Profile

Aidan Rickaby

Age 18 School Greater Atlanta Christian School Team Peachtree Station Piranhas Years of experience I started with them when I was 5 or 6 years old. Favorite event 100m butterfly Favorite stroke Butterfly Favorite swim meet snack Clif Bar. I eat those daily and before every meet. My favorite flavor is the mint chocolate chip or brownie flavor. What keeps you coming back each summer? The people; it’s a really good atmosphere. Peachtree Station has a phenomenal team and Coach Susan is great at what she does. It’s a great place to hang out and have fun over the summer. Favorite memory I started coaching a few years back, which was neat. After you’ve been swimming so long you get to coach the kids [in the age groups] that you used to be a part of.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Continued from page 15

for the Fields Club. “They’re the key element to make the whole team experience flow: the starter, the timers, bullpen volunteers and so much more.” Jason Erb, head coach of the Field Club and Lower School Principal at Wesleyan School, said he would love to see the former swim team parents come back and be involved. Even though their kids are grown, he hoped they might like to volunteer again and reinvest in the community where they have fond family memories. And for new families, the swim season can be a valuable way to quickly plug into the community. Come summer, it’s often a safe bet that neighbors with kids will be at a meet on a Thursday night. Those nights often give way to a common bond among families as they cheer on each other’s kids, summer after summer. “It’s like a giant tailgate party for kids,” Sapough said. “They’re eating candy and sitting on towels hanging out and doing their thing, and then they go swim. What’s not to like?” peachtreecornerslife

Swimmer Profile

Emma Sass

Jason Erb

Character building

Parents and coaches alike see swim team as one of the most valuable ways for children to spend their summers. Not only are the kids learning a skill that could prove life-saving, they’re getting exercise, hanging out with kids of all ages, contributing to a team and developing the talents that can improve their performances. “Our mission is to build community and character through competitive swimming,” said Erb, adding that he focuses on resil-

Age 15 School Norcross High School Team Jones Bridge/ River Station Rapid Barracudas Years of experience This is my 7th year on swim team. Favorite event I really like the 100m butterfly and 100m backstroke. Favorite stroke Backstroke Favorite swim meet snack Normally I eat watermelon during the meet and lots of candy because it’s summer swim team and that’s what it’s all about. Sour patch kids are my favorite. What keeps you coming back each summer? I get to hang out with my friends and it’s not as competitive as yearround swimming. I also coach on my team and I really like helping the younger swimmers, too. Favorite memory A few years ago, my relay made it to the top 10 seed for the county meet, and that was fun because not a lot of relay teams make it that far.

Continued on page 18 June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

MOVE

Sports & Recreation

Norcross grad David Saville poses for a picture with Clemson coach Dabo Swinney. (Special Photo)

Continued from page 17

ience and overcoming hurdles through hard work and self-improvement. Those lessons go beyond the pool, but so does the talk about sportsmanship and swimming etiquette. “We encourage our swimmers to stay on the pool deck until all

relays are finished and stay in the water until the race is over and shake hands afterward,” said Spalding Corners co-coach Dunn. As the swimmers age through the program, there are also opportunities for them to mentor the younger kids and become junior coaches, offering new ways to grow and be challenged. “We want to make every kid feel important,” Hildebrand said. “We want to make the pool a second home to them. The swimming will go, but it’s the memories of having fun that will go beyond.”

Fun for the whole family

Peachtree Station coach Susan Brooks

Unlike most youth sports, age and gender matter only so much. “Swim team is an equalizer because a 5- or 6-year-old can earn just as many points for a team as an 18-year-old about to go D-1,” said Kryski. “It’s a good environment for the older kids to set a good example for the younger ones and push them to be better.” For year-round swimmers, the summer league is a chance to cut loose while staying in shape. But for many families, swim team is about participating in a sport that celebrates individual and group efforts — while adding in the fun of obstacle courses, greased watermelons, parent relays and occasional pie-ings of the coaches. “It’s great to win,” Brooks said, “but it’s more fun to enjoy the spirit of the team and the cheers.” ■

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Norcross High graduate inducted into Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame David Saville, a Norcross High School graduate who grew up in Peachtree Corners, was inducted into the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame on May 1. David has been the football equipment manager at Clemson University for eight years. Saville began his career as a manager at Norcross, then received national acclaim for his involvement with the Clemson football program as equipment manager and as a graduate of the ClemsonLIFE, a program that prepares students with intellectual disabilities (Saville has Down syndrome) for employment and independent living. His positive outlook and energy earned the Walter Camp Football Foundation’s American Hero Award earlier this year.

GAC Alumni Chosen to Captain U.S. Navy Football Team Two recent Greater Atlanta Christian School alumni have been chosen to captain the U.S. Naval Academy football team for the 2019 season. GAC graduates Paul Carothers of Flowery Branch (Class of 2015) and Ford Higgins of Peachtree Corners (Class of 2016) are seniors at the Naval Academy and will lead the team side-by-side, just as they did while they were Spartans. GAC Athletic Director and head football coach Tim Hardy said, “It is a tremendous honor to be named Captain of the Navy Football Team. The team is compeachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

Ford Higgins

Paul Carothers

peachtreecornerslife

prised of some of the most outstanding young men in the nation. I am not surprised that both Ford and Paul were chosen. These are two of the absolute finest young men to graduate from GAC,” adding, “Both of them are elite competitors who confront any challenge with strength and total commitment. Their effort, attitude, and determination give courage and confidence to those around them.” Navy football coach Ken Niumatalolo noted that Higgins earned two varsity letters and started all 13 games in 2018. Higgins will anchor the line for the second year at the center position. Carothers, a linebacker, has been a Navy special teams player, seeing action in nine games a year ago and making six tackles. He had an outstanding spring and made a strong push to be a starter in the fall, according to Niumatalolo.

Wesleyan Soccer Sweeps Girls and Boys Varsity State Championships

In one night and in a matter of hours, the Wesleyan School soccer program added two more accolades to a program that has seen its share of recognition in recent years: two state championships. Playing back to back games, both the girls and boys varsity soccer teams capped off their seasons with championships. The girls won 3-1 over Pinecrest Academy, while the boys defeated Whitefield Academy 2-1 for their respective titles. This is the second state title for each program.

Future Blue Devil Cheer Camp 2019 Aspiring cheerleaders aged 4 to 12 years are invited to jump, cheer and stunt with the Norcross High School Cheerleaders on Saturday, July 20, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Norcross High School Commons. The cost is $40, and a snack is included. Registration forms can be printed online at norcrosshighcheer. weebly.com. Payments and forms can be mailed in or dropped off in the NHS front office. For more information, contact Coach Kyne at Stacey_kyne@gwinnett.k12.us.

Catch our podcasts & Facebook Live streams about the city, education, business and local politics. It’s easy...

Photos by Brian L. Morgan

Peachtree Corners Life features interviews with local writers, artists, political figures and more during it’s weekly podcasts and Facebook Life streams.

Catch most of our podcasts on these platforms, or visit peachtreecornerslife.com for more information.

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

KNOWLEDGE

Education & Experiences

World-Class Education

IB Programme takes local schools to an international level

Several Gwinnett Public Schools in Peachtree Corners offer an innovative, challenging program to eligible students — the prestigious International Baccalaureate® (IB) Programme. The Programme is respected worldwide and has become a factor in drawing corporate interest and talent to the area. Developed in 1968, the IB Programme was designed to establish preparatory school standards recognized by European universities and to prepare students for higher level studies. The program has been in authorized American schools since 1980. What’s different about the program is that it promotes inquiry and encourages students to think critically and challenge assumptions. And it’s cohesive. Courses in the IB Programme don’t stand alone; critical thinking builds between subjects and looks at the whole curriculum. This approach encourages students to consider subjects in local, national and global contexts.

By Kathy Dean

Peachtree Elementary School was authorized as an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) school in May 2010. It was one of the first public elementary schools to achieve the authorization in Georgia. Brian Ginley, IB Coordinator at Peachtree Elementary, explained that the IB Programme is a framework for organizing curriculum and instructional practices. Designed for students aged 3-12, the PYP challenges students to think for themselves and take responsibility for their learning as they investigate local and global issues. “It’s not a specific curriculum,” he said. “Peachtree Elementary organizes the Gwinnett County Academic Knowledge and Skills in transdisciplinary units that are conceptually based. The PYP promotes the use of inquiry as an instructional tool to foster student questioning and taking ownership of their learning.” Earning the authorization created a continuum from Peachtree Elementary to the Middle Years Programme at Pinckneyville Middle School and Norcross High School, and the Diploma Programme at Norcross High School. That means students can attend classes in the IB Programme from Kindergarten through 12th grade to earn an IB diploma, which is recognized and respected by the world’s leading universities. Sloan Roach, Gwinnett County

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

When a first grade class at Peachtree Elementary School noticed that a storm drain at their school was covered with debris, they took action and cleared it to protect the environment. (Courtesy of Peachtree

Photos above, IB students at Norcross High School

Elementary School.)

Courtesy of Gwinnett County Public Schools

Public Schools Executive Director of Communication and Media Relations, said that Norcross High School began offering the IB Programme in 1999 as a means of providing additional rigor to its students. “As a leading International Baccalaureate school, Norcross High offers the Diploma Programme and Middle Years Programme,” Roach explained. “Both Pinckneyville and Summerour middle schools participate in the Middle Years Programme and Peachtree Elementary offers the Primary Years Programme, providing a K-12 IB opportunity for students in the Norcross Cluster.” The school system also offers IB opportunities in the Shiloh Cluster, she added. Students at Norcross High

peachtreecornerslife

School who participate in the IB Programme throughout their school experience have an extremely high success rate when compared to the state, national and world passage rates, according to Roach. “At Norcross in May 2018, 95% of our students received a passing score on IB exams compared to 61% in Georgia, 69% in the U.S. and 78% in the world,” she said. Norcross High Principal Will Bishop and his IB team shared their insights. They said that students who have been through the IB Programme, when they return from college, report how well prepared they are compared to their classmates, even those who are going to elite colleges. “They believe they’re getting Continued on page 22 peachtreecornerslife

>>Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence Gala a Success Nearly 500 guests attended the annual Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence Gala on May 3. The event raised 9% more than last year, bringing the Foundation total to over $2.2 million since it began in 2001. The money goes back to the school to fund programs that support excellence in arts, academics and athletics.

D A - Co-Presidents Tracy O’Leary (left), Sandy Green-

stein (right) presenting Angie Hembree (center) with Hall of Fame plaque. Angie coached at Norcross High School for 10 years. She led the Lady Blue Basketball team to four state championships, two times state runner-up, and the Final Four in 2012. The longtime coach had over 500 wins and was also a great mentor and advocate for the kids.

B - Hall of Fame honorees Bob Chapin (left) and

Jenny Chapin (right) longtime NHSFE board members, past co-President.

C - Hall of Fame honoree Dawn Muchow (left) and her

husband Robin Muchow (right). Dawn was an NHSFE board member for seven years, past treasurer and co-President. Dawn led the Foundation through its two highest revenue producing years, raising over $450,000, led completion of the Foundation’s Strategic Plan, implementation of a Contact Management System and was instrumental in getting the Foundation ready for grant writing.

D - Presenting sponsor and 2010 NHS alumni, Jordan Sandler CEO and President of Frenik Marketing Group.

E - Sam Gorham (left), Rinda Ilustrisimo (center), and Pat O’Leary (right) purchasing Wish Bricks.

F - Left to right: Challengers Elizabeth Gross, Jenny Chapin, Adam

and Diane Cabibi donated $1000 to support Norcross High School. This year NHSFE had 67 Challengers.

G - 2019 Gala co-Chairs Elizabeth Magana (left) and

Rinda Ilustrisimo (right), missing in photo is Kim Hartselle.

H - Left to right: Michelle Minor, Erin Scalese, Heather Bizzell,

Christy Andrews, Rachel Kelly and Kim Hartselle (front) enjoying a great night.

I - Leah Bilz assisting during live auction. Live auction items included beach vacations, wagon of wine and bucket of spirits. These items along with silent auction items raised $10,000.

J - NHS teachers enjoying a great evening.

I J June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Continued from page 20

W E S L E YA N

SUMMER CAMPS

a top-notch education at Norcross High School,” they said. “Like the students, parents feel that their children are well prepared to perform at top-level colleges. They believe critical thinking applies to life beyond school.” And what do the teachers think about the IB program? Teachers enjoy the inquiry approach to learning. “I make the doing easy, but the thinking hard,” said teacher Natalie Dixon. The community at large benefits, too. As sophomores, Norcross High students have the opportunity to complete a personal project. In fact, several projects have turned into events that improve local communities, such as the Blue Devil Run. The IB Programme PYP also encourages elementary school students to take action and make positive differences. Ginley gave an example from one of Peachtree Elementary’s first grade classes. “This spring, during a recess, the students observed that the storm drain was covered by debris from a recent rain. They wondered if this might have a negative effect on animals,” he said. “The students took action by clearing the debris from the storm drain. This is just one example of our students looking to make Peachtree Elementary and our world a better place for all.” ■

Paul Duke STEM Students Attend ICDC Three DECA students from Paul Duke STEM High School — Braeden Baltich, Gavin Pandha and Katherin Aldana-Vasquez — recently attended the International Conference in Orlando, Fla. They received the Gold Certification award for the school store competition and presented the material they developed to a panel of judges.

Wesleyan Senior Receives Georgia Tech’s Highest Scholarship Honor

Wesleyan School senior and Peachtree Corners resident Jennifer Nolan has been awarded the prestigious Stamps President’s Scholarship at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The top-level scholarship covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, books, and supplies, and carries other benefits including priority housing, a stipend toward international academic experiences and unique mentoring opportunities. Stamps President’s Scholars represent less than one percent of the freshmen applicant pool and are selected via a Continued on page 36

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Peachtree Corners Festival Brings Smiles and Lasting Memories By Kathy Dean In Peachtree Corners, the second weekend in June is reserved for creating good memories while having fun with family and neighbors. The ninth annual Peachtree Corners Festival is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, June 7-9. It will be held at The Corners Office Park, and traffic will be blocked off along a half mile of The Corners Parkway, from Holcomb Bridge Road to Mary Our Queen Catholic Church. This year’s festival brings back all the things that have made it so popular — good food, quality entertainment, car shows and top-notch arts and crafts — but there are some new surprises coming as well.

The price of admission? Free, of course! Debbie Mason, festival vice president and the city’s first lady, said that back when the people of Peachtree Corners were starting to think about incorporating into a city, she realized that she was tired of going somewhere else to enjoy herself. “Our citizens should be able to make their memories right here,” she explained. “As the first lady, that’s my focus — to create events to create memories.” As one of the founders of the Peachtree Corners Festival, Mason has achieved that goal. “The festival has something for everyone, and everyone leaves happy,” she said. “We want to see smiles on everybody’s faces… and we do.”

Sounds of the Festival Friday june 7

Saturday Sunday june june 8 9 The Sock Hops

Lilac Wine

Oldies | 10 a.m.

Traditional & Trendy 12:00 p.m.

Double Take

Bulletproof

Rock | 11:15 a.m.

Mary Kate Farmer

RUMOURS

Country Rock | 12:30 p.m.

Shaky Jane

Last Chance Riders

Country/Rock/ Bluegrass | 2:30 p.m.

Rock | 1:45 p.m.

Clear Redemption

A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE Classic Rock | 3:15 p.m. With special opening guest: RUNNIN’ DOWN A DREAM

R&B, Inc.

On the web

Hours

Phone

Friday concert 7-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 12 noon to 5 p.m.

The Nowhere Men Beatles Tribute 3:45 p.m.

Rhythm, Blues & Soul 4:45 p.m.

Dates

Friday to Sunday, June 7-9.

Classic Rock | 1:15 p.m.

peachtreecornersfestival.com. 770-367-3127

Dogs

6025 The Corners Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092.

Allowed if leashed, but organizers urge against bringing dogs. Last year’s pavement temperature was measured at 110 degrees.

Free parking

Friday night concert

Location

Comcast parking lot, 6234 Crooked Creek Road. Handicapped parking in the main lot and at Wells Fargo, 3374 Holcomb Bridge Road.

Picnic baskets and coolers welcome. No alcohol can be brought in. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased from food and drink vendors.

Cost

Free admission. No charge for Kids Korner rides.

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Peachtree Corners Festival Brings Smiles and Lasting Memories Kids Korner now free!

“One big change in this year’s festival is that we’re subsidizing all of our kids’ rides,” said Dave Huffman, president of Peachtree Corners Festival. “You can come out and ride everything as much as you want, and it won’t cost you a cent.” Features of Kids Korner include a zip line, swing ride, fire engine train, bungee jump and ballistic ride as well as many other attractions. “I look forward to seeing a lot of action there!” he said.

Car shows

The Classic Car & Motorcycle Show on Saturday is free of charge for spectators, and everyone is encouraged to bring their camera. For anyone who’d like to participate in the show, the on-site registration fee is $15. Awards will be presented Saturday for top cars and bikes. There’ll also be food vendors, door prizes and a DJ spinning some tunes. “The British car show returns on Sunday and folks are still talking about it from last year,” Huffman said. The 36th Annual Atlanta British Motorcar Day brings out about 200 cars for the public to view. Visitors will find spectacular and classic Rolls-Royces, Jaguars, Land Rovers, Triumphs and Minis. But that’s not all. There are also Morgans, Lotuses, Aston Martins, MGs, Austin Healeys, Sunbeams and Jensens. In fact, 14 Atlanta area British car clubs sponsor this annual charity event. British Motorcar Day will be held Sunday, June 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Last year was the first time the car show was held as part of the Peachtree Corners Festival, and it’s found a cozy home here. Even if you’re not passionate about cars, don’t miss the parade of British cars at 2 p.m.!

Sounds of the festival

The festival kicks off on Friday with a free concert at 7 p.m. Runnin’ Down a Dream, a band that plays all the Tom Petty classics, will take the stage as special opening guest. The good times roll on into the night with the pop-

ular Rumours as they re-create the experience of Fleetwood Mac at the height of their career. Live music continues all through the weekend. On Saturday, festival-goers will enjoy six acts and a variety of music styles from top talents. The Sock Hops perform favorites from the 50s, 60s and 70s in four-part harmonies. Georgia Country’s 2017 Female Country Artist of the Year Mary Kate Farmer brings her personal style of country rock to Peachtree Corners. Rock and roll party band Clear Redemption performs high-energy covers that feature dueling lead guitars. Double Take lets everyone experience great music when they put their own twist on 1980s rock. Inspired by groups like Led Zeppelin, The Allman Brothers Band and AC/DC, The Last Chance Riders deliver timeless rock and roll with an explosive rhythm section. Eight-piece R & B, Inc. is well-known throughout Atlanta for their feel-good rhythm, blues and soul music.

On Sunday, four more acts will appear on stage. Tucker-based Lilac Wine ▲ and their combination of popular songs from the last 50 years is presented in a way that’s sweet, skillful and adventurous. The crowd will rock, roll and sing along with Bulletproof as the group plays classic rock and dance hits. The great sounds of Shaky Jane cover a spectrum of genres and styles, including country, rock and bluegrass. Get ready for the feel of a British invasion when The Nowhere Men take to the stage and play all those Beatles’ hits we love.

Tastes and treats

During the Friday night concert, there will be food trucks on-site to serve up some delicious meals, such as Southern Crust Pizza, Cousins Maine Lobster, The Mad Greek and Freddy’s Hamburg-

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

ers and Fries. Fair food and desserts are offered courtesy of Wacky Tomatoe, Blue Cow Creamery and King of Pops; they’ll be around throughout the festival. No one goes hungry on Saturday or Sunday, either. There’s plenty to eat with worldclass barbecue from Williamson Brothers BBQ, mouth-watering variations on the potato at Ma’s Irish Kitchen, authentic Greek street food from The Mad Greek and tasty dishes courtesy of Red Hills Catering. For some sweet fruit flavors, try delicious Georgia peaches from Pearson Farms or drink some of Sweet Mama’s Lemonade. Cool down with an ice-cold treat from Kona Ice or Snowie Days Shaved Ice.

Arts and crafts

More than 60 arts and craft vendors will display their wares at the festival, according to festival arts director Linda O’Connor. ◄ Sue Shefts Designs has been with the Peachtree Corners Festival since the beginning. Sue creates stunning handmade beaded jewelry that attracts many repeat clients who visit her at the festival. “I have a range of prices, from $14 for petite sterling silver earring designs, going up from there, so I can fit the budget of someone looking to treat themselves on a fun day and also appeal to the person looking for an incredibly unique artful piece of jewelry to add to her collection,” she said. Sue has been exhibiting in art shows and festivals for many years, and said, “The organi-

peachtreecornerslife

zation of the event and the ease of load-in and load-out are primary considerations for me. The volunteers at the event are quite helpful,

making it an easy decision for me to apply year after year. Peachtree Corners Festival is one of the best!” Many other quality artisans will also be there, bringing a wide variety of handcrafted items to show and sell. “We insist that every vendor’s items are handmade,” Debbie Mason said. Here’s a sampling of some of the vendors exhibiting this year. The unique wood and metal home décor at ◄BTC Custom Designs is the perfect way to personalize a home or commemorate a special occasion. Their monograms and keepsakes fit perfectly anywhere in the home, from the bedroom or nursery to the kitchen. There are even

custom designs that add a touch of personality to any office. Since 2009, Tom and Janet Jenkins have been making Simply Fragrant Home ▲ soy candles. They hand pour each candle, using 100% soy wax. The Jenkinses say that they believe every home should be filled with “love, lots of laughter and lasting memories.” They

Illustrative Map by Jane Nah June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

offer their wonderfully scented, eco-friendly candles as a way to add beauty to their customers’ homes. ◄Celtic Falcon Woodturning offers a beautiful selection of handmade wooden bowls, in medium and large sizes, as well as platters. Each item is crafted so the beauty of the wood is featured. And the master artisan uses a variety of stains to complement any décor.

Since 1998, ▲Smack Yo Mama Gourmet BBQ Sauce and Rub has been supplying local gourmands with premier sauces and a savory all-around dry seasoning. Whether you prefer sweet, smoky, tangy or spicy, you’re sure to find something to excite your tastebuds. But what you won’t find is gluten, MSG or high fructose corn syrup in their sauces and seasonings.

soap is mixed in small batches from natural ingredients that gently cleanse the skin without the addition of harsh detergents and chemicals. The soaps are scented with phthalate-free fragrances and essential oils, and each bar is made with body-safe natural clays, micas, oxides and pigments.

At the Wooden It Be Lovely ▲ booth, Hal and Brenda Jones sell handmade, colorful wooden puzzles that delight children — and adults. “We started making puzzles for our daughter when we couldn’t find wooden puzzles to buy for her,” they say. “Then the neighbors wanted us to make puzzles for their kids and the ‘lightbulb moment’ happened.” That was back in 1992, and they’re proudly creating puzzles for the next generation. “I love to help promote the Peachtree Corners Festival because it’s a family-friendly, fun event right in our backyard, with great food trucks and lots to see,” Sue said. “I love to buy the fruit from the local farm that’s always there and to see what the other artists have been up to. And it’s always fun to see families enjoying the kids’ area and to hear the performers on the stage all weekend. I look forward to it every year!”

Community connection

As president, a big part of Dave Huffman’s job is to coordinate all the activities and make sure that the committee members who handle specific aspects of the festival — music, food, arts, etc. — all understand the overall vision for the festival and have what they need to do their job. He has come to rely on the roughly 60 volunteers who help keep things organized and moving

Day Kennedy, the artist behind ▲Daylight Glassworks, is a self-taught stained glass artist who was born and raised in Atlanta. She primarily uses the “Tiffany” copper foil method as she creates modern home décor in a medium that is often considered to be traditional. Each piece is skillfully designed and handcrafted by Day in her home studio. The folks at Johns Creek Soap & Sundries ► have been producing handmade artisan soaps since 1999. Their cold-process

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

every year. “We have such a good group of dedicated volunteers that I had no qualms about doing what I could to lead the group,” he said. “They make it much easier for me.” One aspect of Debbie Mason’s position is securing sponsorships. “The thing I enjoy every year is talking to people,” she said. “It’s hard raising money, but I’ve met a lot of great people over the phone. I learned that there’s always someone who wants to help.” It costs about $80,000 to $100,000 to stage the nonprofit festival, and that is covered almost entirely by sponsors, including the City of Peachtree Corners. Other major sponsors include Jacobs Engineering Group, and Golden Productions, Inc.

A Platinum Sponsor, CMX CinéBistro Peachtree Corners▲, will have a festival presence with a carpeted area, theater seating, a large screen presenting trailers and food samples from their scratch kitchen. Huffman said that while it’s hard to pick a best part of his job, “the mission of our non-profit festival corporation is to use any proceeds to enhance local education and beautification projects here in our area, so when I get to present a pretty substantial check to a school group to further the students’ educational experience, it’s a good feeling.” Still, he added, his favorite part of the festival is seeing all of the families come out and have a good time right here in their backyard. “I especially enjoy our very popular Friday night concerts and seeing everyone enjoying friends, food, and music in a beautiful setting,” he said. “This year’s concert will be one to remember, I’m sure.” ■

peachtreecornerslife

The Area’s Preferred Dentist! DR. PHILIP TALLEY & FAMILY

Accepting NEW PATIENTS Free whitening for new patients!

Call Today! 770.368.1110

Located above Trader Joe’s 5185 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 201, Building 1200, Peachtree Corners Gwinnett Dentist.com

Innovative Smiles At The Forum, P.C.

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

COMMUNITY

rom the start, the people planning Peachtree Corner’s new monument honoring America’s veterans wanted it to do more than simply stand there silently. “It’s always had an interactive component,” Bob Ballagh, executive director of the non-profit Peachtree Corners Monument Association, said one recent morning as he checked on construction of the new monument on the city’s Town Green. “It’s had that from the get-go.” So once the half-million-dollar, 2,800-square-foot bronzeand-stone monument is completed and dedicated, visitors will not only be able to see a group of sculptures depicting soldiers from all periods of U.S. history, they’ll be able to hear and see videos of the veterans themselves, or members of their families, talking about their service. Ballagh, a retired U.S. Army colonel himself, said that the monument commission wanted to make something special. Many civic monuments end up just being concrete or granite that can be ignored or fade from use, he said. The Peachtree Corners monument is intended to offer something different. “From the very beginning, we wanted something that would mean more than just a piece of rock,” Ballagh said. “We wanted the veterans of Peachtree Corners to be real live people, for their families and for schoolkids.” As part of the development of the monument, about 140 videos have been made to record the memories of people who served or memories of them

Above, Bob Ballagh checks out construction. Opposite page, video terminals that will allow visitors to interact with the monument.

A Place to Remember and to Interact with History 28

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Article & Photos by By Joe Earle

peachtreecornerslife

Thomas Ross

from their children, grandchildren or even, in at least one case, a great-grandchild. Jim Stone, producer-director for Tytan Pictures, which is making the videos, said more of the three-to-five-minute videos may be made before the project is complete.

Digital Kiosk

“It’s very emotional talking to these guys …,” said Stone, who conducts the interviews. “Their stories are incredible. All of them are interesting. All have a story to tell … All of them are very proud to have served our country, and it means a lot to recognized. It’s not like, ‘Look at me!’ It’s just gratitude in being recognized.”

Stone pointed to an interview with a former U.S. Army Special Forces officer named Thomas Ross. Ross describes a mission in Vietnam in 1968 in which he helped evacuate a village he said had been held captive for years and its residents abused by Viet Cong and North Vietnamese soldiers. The story made the CBS national news at the time. “I never wanted to be a hero,” Ross said at the end of his video, “but I thought being gallant was special.” The veteran’s monument does feature statues, too. Bronzes displayed at the monument portray an eagle astride a globe and flanked by statues of men and women who represent various branches of the U.S. military as well as the reserves, the National Guard and Merchant Marines. On its website, the memorial commission describes the figures as “an honor guard” for the eagle. The four-foot-tall statues, by Pennsylvania artist Chad Fisher, are to be arrayed within a brick-and-stone ellipse set on high ground on one edge of the new Town Green, located at 5200 Town Center Boulevard. The figures are designed to refer to various demographic groups that make up the services, Ballagh said, and include a U.S. marine who honors the Native Americans who worked as “code talkers” during World War II and a female U.S. Air Force fighter pilot. The monument also features six benches. Five are engraved with the names of periods of American history and the wars

the United States fought during those periods, from its earliest days (the Revolutionary War) to the Cold War Period (Korea and Vietnam) to the Post-Cold War Period (Iraq and Afghanistan). The sixth bench has been left blank for future inscription. A pair of metal boxes with video screens stand guard at the entrance to the monument. They are computer terminals that can provide visitors with information about the monument and play videos of people interviewed as part of the monument project, Ballagh said. Visitors can also download an app that will let them watch the videos on their smartphones. Visitors using the interactive elements of the monument will be able to learn the history and makeup of the American armed forces as well as features of the monument itself. The video terminals will offer information such as the location of any of the 700-plus pavers in the monument that are engraved with

the names of individual servicemen or servicewomen or sponsoring individuals or businesses. “Each part of the monument has a story to it that you can look up,” Ballagh said. Ballagh said that planning the monument began in 2015, just a few years after Peachtree Corners was incorporated. “Every town in America has some sort of veteran’s memorial, even if it’s just one statue or a big plaque,” he said. The Peachtree Corners commission decided their city needed something more. The commissioners, he said, wanted a place that would demonstrate the pride the city took in its veterans, that would allow schoolchildren to learn about veterans and that would provide a place veterans groups could hold ceremonies in the future. They wanted a place to remember. ■

MARTELL HOMES

PROVIDES PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES TO RESIDENTIAL BUYERS, SELLERS AND INVESTORS

678-758-4138 Bob@martellhomes.com www.martellhomes.com DOWNLOAD MY FREE SEARCH APP 3930 East Jones Bridge Rd., Suite 100 Peachtree Corners, GA. 30092

by texting KW1IZYEJI to 87778

Ga. License# 366606

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Successful Clean-Up at Crooked Creek More than 28 volunteers took advantage of the warm, sunny weather on the morning of May 18 and participated in the Crooked Creek Clean-Up. Volunteers included eight employees from Veritiv Corporation and four elected officials: State Senator Sally Harrell, State Representative Beth Moore, Councilman Phil Sadd and Councilman Eric Christ. Also in attendance were Bob Howard, Lori Howard, Nancie Allen, Bob Allen, Jim Gaffey, Drew Kendall, Bob Nebel, Charles Levinson, Matt Yarbrough, Cherlon Mathias Day and Jason Day. The Knights of Columbus of Mary Our Queen Church graciously provided breakfast for the volunteers. Crooked Creek is the principal watershed for Peachtree Corners, and the annual event is a project of Peachtree Corners Green Committee and Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful. Bob Howard coordinated the project on behalf of the City of Peachtree Corners with Jennifer Howard. ■

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Book Notes

What Our Neighbors Are Listening to These lists of the most often circulated library audio books in Peachtree Corners is provided thanks to Elissa Checov, Manager of the Peachtree Corners Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library. The information covers March and April 2019.

The mission of the Norcross High School Foundation for Excellence (NHSFE) is to ensure the success of ALL students at Norcross High School by building community support and raising funds to cultivate excellence in academics, arts and athletics. Since its inception in 2001, the NHSFE has raised more than $2.2 million to elevate teaching and learning in the classroom, expand the fine arts opportunities and support athletic programs and extracurricular activities. Thank you to our generous sponsors and everyone that supports NHSFE.

TOP TEN FICTION BOOKS ON CD CIRCULATED IN MARCH AND APRIL 2019 1.

Look Alive Twenty-Five by Janet Evanovich

The Reckoning: A Novel by John Grisham

Long Road to Mercy by David Baldacci

The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand

The Other Woman: A Novel by Daniel Silva

Camino Island: A Novel by John Grisham

Cottage by the Sea: A Novel by Debbie Macomber

Every Breath by Nicholas Sparks

Holy Ghost by John Sandford

10. Lethal White by Robert Galbraith

TOP TEN NON-FICTION BOOKS CIRCULATED MARCH & APRIL 2019 1.

The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2019 by Bob Sehlinger

Europe Through the Back Door: The Travel Skills Handbook by Rick Steves

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance

A Simplified Life: Tactical Tools for Intentional Living by Emily Ley

Frommer’s EasyGuide to London by Jason Cochran

Fodor’s London

Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris

Medical Medium Thyroid Healing by Anthony William

Arthur Frommer’s Europe

Tied for tenth place on the list: •

Entreleadership: 20 years of Practical Business Wisdom from the Trenches by Dave Ramsey

•

Fodor’s Big Island of Hawaii by Karen Anderson

•

Everyday Dorie: The Way I Cook by Dorie Greenspan

•

I’ll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman’s Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer by Michelle McNamara

•

Things I Wish I’d known Before We Got Married by Gary D. Chapman

Presenting Sponsors Frenik Marketing Group Gwinnett Medical Center

Signature Sponsors City of Norcross City of Peachtree Corners

Host Sponsor Danskin Creative

Partner Sponsors Atlanta Tech Park Calumet Bank Farm Burger Innovative Smiles: Dr. Phillip K. Talley

Norcross First United Methodist Church Peachtree Corners Festival The Legacy Group of Atlanta at Morgan Stanley

The Snider Team, Merrill Lynch: Harvey, Luke & Sam Snider United Way of Greater Atlanta

Friend Sponsors Arbor-Nomics Turf, Inc. Barnash and Reddic Realty, Keller Williams Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia Debbie Timm, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Jennifer Holley Realty, LLC

Michelle Wilson, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Peachtree Corners Business Association Suburban Medical Center/ Suburban Med Spa WordPlay with Jen Elliott Ehrhardt

Community and Auction Donors 1 Rep at a Time Bootcamp Black Diamond Motor Sports Black Walnut Brainstorm Escape Games Buckhead Yard Greetings Bob and Jenny Chapin Chef David Catering Diane Fisher, College is Next

Firebird’s Wood Fired Grill Rebecca Lasley Line 39/Brian Stephenson Marlow’s Tavern Meadows and Ohly NHS Class of 1969 in memory of Bill Bryant NHSFE Board Members Noble Fin Osteria di Mare

Paul Bartholomai and Les Hudson, Peachtree Station Tennis Club Peachtree Growler Pub Ten Sharp Haircuts Spalding Animal Hospital Taqueria del Mar Ten Bistro

2018-2019 Challengers

Meet Libby, the App for ebooks Did you know your local library has thousands of ebooks and audiobooks? You can borrow them, instantly, for free, using just the device in your hand. Meet Libby, the Gwinnett County Public Library’s easy, fresh way to borrow and read from the library. The app for ebooks and audiobooks is available for download through the Apple App Store, Microsoft and Google Play. Go to gwinnett.overdrive. com to learn more.

Page and Lisa Aspinwall Adam and Mindy Appel Erik and Nancy Balkan Will and Lyn Bishop Jim and Kristina Blum Charles and Lucinda Burts Adam and Diane Cabibi Bob and Jenny Chapin David Chen and Chenchen Hsiao Eric Christ and Maureen McIvor Jason Day and Cherlon Mathias-Day Ty and Jennifer Dealy Jed and Carrie DeLong Jatin and Hetal Desai Bob and Gretchen Gartin Weare and Amber Gratwick David and Sandy Greenstein Paul and Elizabeth Gross David and Suzanne Grosswald Brad and Kimberley Hale Kevin and Lisa Hallam Tye and Stephanie Hanna Bill and Kim Hartselle

Wade and Cindy Hatcher Bryan and Kara Herron Michael and Shannon Howe Dave and Laura Huffman Eric and Rinda Ilustrisimo Mike and Kim Janis Howard and Sally Jetmundsen Shane and Alison Johnson Bill and Shari Kent Kyle and Jane Kotake Kenji and Rachelle Kuramoto Josh and Rebecca Lasley Russ and Tina Little Aaron and Jan Lupuloff Sergio and Elizabeth Magana Eric and Jordan Mai Jimmy and Laurie McLeroy Don and Barbara Mettler Donald and Bettilee Miller Robin and Dawn Muchow Pat and Tracy O’Leary Stephan and Deanna Oster Anthony Parker and Tia Owens-Parker

John and Kristy Parent Harris and Purvi Patel Ken and Darlene Penner Jeff and Kelly Pettit Eric and DeeDee Portman Bo and Renee Reddic David and Trish Reifenberger Richard and Tara Ryan Phil and Stephanie Sadd Kevin and Jessica Sapough Bob and Diane Saville Mark and Erin Scalese Adam and Marsha Shapiro Joe and Becky Siech Henry and Jennifer Skurpski David and Bettina Smalley Kevin and Meredith Smith Andrew and Taylor Sword Jeff Thomas and Katarina Relja-Thomas Gary and Diana Volino Mark and Wendy Willis

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Fun Facts Councilmember Graduates Leadership Gwinnett Class Phil Sadd, Peachtree Corners City Councilmember who About the GCPL represents Post 1, is among the 39 local leaders to graduate from the Leadership Gwinnett Class of 2019. Sadd was selected last Peachtree spring for the prestigious nine-month program that began in Corners Library August 2018. “I entered into the leadership Gwinnett program already in a leadership position and feeling like I was doing the most I could,” said Sadd. “Leadership Gwinnett was the key to unlocking my additional growth. Because of the connections I’ve made and things I’ve learned, my potential has expanded.” The Leadership Gwinnett program is designed to educate, equip and engage diverse leaders and inspire civic involvement. During the program the class participated in two major retreats, eight monthly study groups and seven learning days. “We are proud that Phil was selected to be part of the Leadership Gwinnett Class of 2019,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “I know he benefitted immensely by participating and undoubtedly, the city will benefit as well.”

in April 2019

23,029 items were circulated, 6% increase from April 2018

6,709

requests for items were placed, the third highest in the library system!

12,150

visits were made to the library, up 20% from April 2018. GCPL has circulated a total of

1,446,962

items through April 2019.

Summer Meals for Kids and Teens Through the summer, free meals are provided daily for children and teens, ages 18 and younger, at three Gwinnett County park locations. The meals are available Monday through Friday, June 3 to 28 and July 8 to August 2, while supplies last. Please note that no service will be provided July 1-5. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and a snack is available from 2:30-3 p.m. The participating park locations are: Best Friend Park, 6224 Jimmy Carter Boulevard in Norcross (678-277-0222); Rhodes Jordan Park, 100 East Crogan Street in Lawrenceville (678-277-0890); and the Lilburn Activity Building, 788 Hillcrest Road in Lilburn (678-2770875).

Norcross and PTC Police Part of Golf for a Good Cause Norcross/Peachtree Corners police officers (l-r) Vincent Cardwell, Robert Branud, Todd Bureta and Marcus Sales took part in Assistance League of Atlanta’s second annual “DRIVING FOREWARD” golf tournament on May 6 at Bear’s Best Atlanta. They, along with over 40 of their fellow first responders from around the community, enjoyed a complimentary day on the links due to generous public donations and sponsorships. The charity golf event raises funds to support Assistance League’s, AssistanceLeagueATL.org, mission of helping children and adults in need.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Precision Pain Relief Center Spine & Injury Center

Dr. Capoferri has served the Peachtree Corners area since 1982, helping thousands with accurate diagnosis, prognosis and treatments for auto accidents, sports injuries and slip and fall injuries. Spine and Injury Center utilizes the most high-tech proven equipment and methods to achieve the best outcomes in the most challenging cases. Dr. Capoferri has developed a team of dedicated specialists including neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons and pain management specialists that work together to accomplish better outcomes.

Call or go online today for your expert care: 770.448.4742 or drcapoferri.com “Spine pain management without dangerous opioids, Neurosurgery without the knife” 6316 Spalding Drive, Suite 1, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

Donald A. Capoferri, D.C., DAAMLP, BCN, FSBT ■ Fellowship trained in Spine Trauma ■ Fellowship trained in Spinal Biomechanics ■ Fellowship trained in Spinal Neuroradiology

Peachtree Corners Business Association “Where Businesses Comes To Grow”

The Peachtree Corners Business Association is the premier networking organization for Gwinnett County and its largest city, Peachtree Corners. PCBA hosts networking events, keynote speaker series, Connecting Over Coffee, grand openings/ribbon cuttings and more. In addition, PCBA actively supports charities, nonprofit organizations, and student scholarships, donating over $75,000 since 2012.

PCBA offers membership levels starting at just $125 / year. Become a Sponsor for our August 22nd Island Castaways Charity Party or Donate Items for our Online Silent Auction! Contact us at sponsorships@peachtreecornersba.com or call 678-969-3385.

Want some cool savings for summer PCBA Business After Hours? Use Promo Code “PCBAPCM” for $2 OFF when you register for the June 6th or July 25th events. 678.969.3385 www.PeachtreeCornersBA.com

Pms 350 c Pms 369 c

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

BELIEVE

Faith, Belief & Purpose

Important Lessons

Local churches offer Vacation Bible Schools and other summer fun for kids Registration is open now, and there’s a free music CD/download for those who register by July 1. The cost is $5 per camper, with a family maximum of $15. For more information and to register, visit ctklutheran.org or call 770-449-1211.

Peachtree Corners Baptist — In the Wild

Many of the churches serving the Peachtree Corners community are providing ways to help students develop spiritually, socially, physically and academically while school is out. In addition to Vacation Bible Schools, there are

By Kathy Dean Photos courtesy of Peachtree Corners Baptist Church

camps, sports clinics and other activities on the calendar.

Christ the King Lutheran — YeeHaw Weekend

YeeHaw Weekend Vacation Bible School at Christ the King Lutheran Church is a stampede of fun that celebrates God’s greatest gift — Jesus. The Vacation Bible School will be held Friday through Sunday, July 26-28. Friday, 5:30-8:30 p.m., and features a Chick-fil-A dinner. The Saturday afternoon program runs from 2 to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday morning, 9-11 a.m., includes a Waffle House breakfast.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

This year’s Vacation Bible School at Peachtree Corners Baptist Church is In the Wild. The free community event is open to children who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade. The program runs Monday through Friday, June 10-14, 8:45 a.m. to 12 noon each day. Registration is open and can be accessed through pcbchurch. org. To accommodate working parents, After-VBS Camp is available Monday through Friday, June 10-14, 12 noon to 5 p.m. The camp is for students who’ve completed 1st to 5th grades at a cost of $150. There will be fun games, as well as trips to Glow Galaxy, Monkey Joe’s, West Gwinnett Aquatic Center and Chuck E. Cheese. Please note that limited space is available. Several other kids’ events are offered at Peachtree Corners Baptist Church this summer, too. There’s a Sports Camps and Clinics for kids and teens in June and July. The list includes Basketball Camp (June 3-6 and July 22-25), Baseball Camp (June 24-26 and

peachtreecornerslife

July 8-10), Pitcher and Catcher Day (June 27 and July 11), Dodgeball Day (July 26). For specifics on sports camps, go to pcbchurch. org, scroll over ‘Connect,’ click on ‘Sports’ and then ‘Camps and Clinics.’ Kids Night In, on Wednesday, June 19 from 6 to 9 p.m., invites students who’ve completed kindergarten to 5th grade for a movie night in the Collide Studio. After a pizza dinner, there will be popcorn to snack on while everyone watches the animated movie “The Lion King.” Children are encouraged to wear PJs and bring their pillow and blanket. Kids Night In is free and no registration is required. Visit pcbchurch.org or call 770582-2450 for information and to register for VBS, camps or special events.

Simpsonwood UMC— ROAR: Life Is Wild — God Is Good VBS This summer, the theme of Vacation Bible School at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church is ROAR: Life Is Wild — God Is Good. The program is offered exclusively for children from 4 years old (as of Sept. 1, 2019) through students who have completed 5th grade. ROAR runs Monday through Friday, July 15-19, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Simpsonwood UMC, 4500 Jones Bridge Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092. Go to simpsonwoodumc.org or call the church at 770-441-2181 for details or to register.

Mary Our Queen — Cool Kingdom Party

At Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, kids are officially invited to spend a royal week with the King and Queen of Heaven and Earth. Children participating in Cool Kingdom Party, a Catholic Vacation Bible School, will learn all about Mary and how she leads people closer to her Son, the King of Kings. peachtreecornerslife

dren will be able to discover who they are and connect with God through the Bible. For older kids, aged 8 to 18 years, Landmark Church offers AOTM (All Over The Map) Drama Troup Camp Tuesday through Saturday, June 18 to 22, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. They’re invited to come to develop drama skills and discipline, experience

teamwork and commitment and build friendships while enjoying games and learning to walk with Christ Jesus. The camp ends with a special cast party! Landmark Church, 3737 Holcomb Bridge Road, Peachtree Corners 30092. Find out more and get registered at landmarkchurch.org or by calling 770-449-5956. ■

TAKE A TOUR | 770-417-8838

This royal week is offered for children aged 4 years old (by June 1) to 5th grade, and is offered Monday through Friday, June 24 to 28, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost is $40 per child; families of three or more children should contact the church for possible family discounts. Each child requires a separate registration. Mary Our Queen Catholic Church is located at 6260 The Corners Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092. Call 770-416-0002 or go to maryourqueen.com to register and get additional info.

Spiritual Writing Class at Unity Atlanta Writing Within, a spiritual writing class facilitated by Toyia McCormack uses fast writing techniques to allow people to reach deep into themselves, past the inner ego and critics to discover who they really are and what’s important to them. The class is held on Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m. An offering of $25 is suggested. RSVP to toyia.denise@ gmail.com. Unity Atlanta, Room 109, 3597 Parkway Lane, Norcross 30092. Find out more at UnityAtl. org or by calling 770-441-0585.

An Invitation to Classes at Peachtree Corners Presbyterian Church T’ai Chi is an effective exercise regimen that can help improve

Landmark Church — Supernatural Kids: Bringing Heaven to Earth

An exciting and fun-filled Vacation Bible School, Supernatural Kids: Bringing Heaven to Earth will be presented at Landmark Church. It’s an awesome opportunity for children, aged 5 to 12 years old, to experience a supernatural encounter with God. The week-long experience runs Monday through Friday, June 10-14, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Through Supernatural Kids, chil-

Echo Lakeside is an exciting 295-unit modern apartment development featuring high-end amenities that include a pool, boat dock, hiking/biking trail, cyber cafe, fitness facilities great pet emenities, professional and friendly staff, gym, dog park and more than we can list here. LEASING NOW - Check out floor plans & amenities at echolakeside.com 510 Guthridge Court, in Peachtree Corners, GA | 770-417-8838

balance, increase flexibility and relieve pain. Peachtree Corners Presbyterian Church offers a T’ai Chi classes for senior adults on Thursday mornings, 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Instructor Ernest Choi has many years of experience practicing and teaching T’ai Chi. The 8-week class cost is $48 per person for the entire 8-week session. For more info, call the church office, 770-263-7005, or Mr. Choi at 404324-2004. Every second and fourth Sunday throughout the summer, Peachtree Corners Presbyterian Church will host a supper and study of the Book of Acts, taught by the pastor. The supper and study are held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in June, July and August. There’s no cost and no need for reservations; just show up! Childcare is provided for adults who attend the study. Peachtree Corners Presbyterian Church, 5918 Spalding Drive, Norcross 30092. Find out more at 770-263-7005 or pcarpchurch.org.

June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

KNOWLEDGE Continued on page 22

rigorous interview process. “We are very excited for Jennifer,” noted Wesleyan’s Director of College Advising Ken Connor. “This recognition certainly acknowledges Jennifer’s hard work over the course of her high school career, both in and out of the classroom.”

Greater Atlanta Christian High School Names AP Scholars At Greater Atlanta Christian’s Academic Awards Night, held the end of April, the high school presented awards to students who have performed at the highest level in the AP Program. Thirty-three AP Scholars with differing distinctions were recognized. Among the GAC students who received the awards, four are from Peachtree Corners. Mary Grace Manton, Navya Sarikonda and Kaitlyn Williams were named AP Scholars, an award granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. Sam Collins was named an AP Scholar with Honor, an award given to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of the exams. “These accomplishments are not only indicative of the caliber of students we have but of the quality of our faculty as well,” said GAC Principal Shane Woodward. “Our teachers put a lot of effort into making these scores a possibility for our students and I couldn’t be more grateful for their efforts.” ■

Check out our podcast “The ED Hour” discussing educational issues. You can find it at LivinginPeachtreeCorners.com.

Education & Experiences

Gwinnett County Public Schools Teachers of the Year

For the 2018-2019 school year, the Teachers of the Year in Gwinnett County Public School include:

■ Darrell Cicchetti, Norcross High School, Grade 9 Language Arts ■ Amy Cordova, Simpson Elementary School, Grade 2 ■ Melissa Dorsey, Duluth Middle School, Grade 7 Language Arts ■ Amanda A. Eady, Peachtree Elementary School, Grade 3

■ Dawn Frazer, Berkeley Lake Elementary School, Grade 1 ■ Chandra Harmond Brandel, Coleman Middle School, Grade 6 Mathematics ■ Charlene R. Jackson, Pinkneyville Middle School, Grade 7 Mathematics ■ Becca Rackley, Summerour Middle School, Grade 6 Language Arts

■ Lauren O’Connor, Paul Duke STEM High School, Grade 9-11 Marketing & Journalism ■ Allison Sunderberg, Stripling Elementary School, Grades K-5 Spanish, and ■ Jordan T. White, Duluth High School, Grade 9 AP Human Geography and World Geography. ■

Pinckneyville MS Kids Headed for Odyssey of the Mind World Championship Last year the current Odyssey of the Mind (OotM) team from Pinckneyville Middle School finished at the top of the Elementary school ranking in their category. From there, they finished first in the World Finals for OotM ahead of 72 teams from 11 countries. This year, the team from the school will be heading to the World Finals again. The Pinckneyville MS team is composed of seven students, six sixth-graders and one fourth-grader — Addie, Claire, Elisa, Emma, Kylie, Molly, and Sophie. They’ve created an original play, including writing the script and making the costumes, sets, props and make-up, all without help from adults and using a budget of only $125, as is demanded by the OotM rules. Odyssey of the Mind is an international program that allows teams of students to solve problems in a creative manner. Each year, the teams are given long-term problems that they will solve with certain criteria included in the solution. Earlier this year, the Pinckneyville MS team won First Place at both the regional competition in February and

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

the Georgia State Finals in April, despite being the youngest competitors in the middle school division. They said, “It’s an honor once again to be one of the teams from all over the world that will be competing at the World Finals and to represent Peachtree Corners, Gwinnett County Public Schools, and the state of Georgia!” ■

peachtreecornerslife

Above, (left to right) back row: Emma, Sophie, Claire and Molly; front row: Elisa, Kylie and Addie. Below, a view from last year’s Odyssey of the Mind Finals.

peachtreecornerslife

Summer Tech Camps

New Location!

SPECIALTY SUMMER CAMPS

PEACHTREE CORNERS PROTOTYPE PRIME

Nationally Recognized Early Bird Special

Alpharetta Lawrenceville Peachtree Corners

KIDS4CODING.COM

Roswell

An unforgettable experience awaits! These popular camps for teens and pre-teens are filling up fast.

SMART Girls Summer Camp 2019

• Fashion Design

June 17 - 21 June 24-28 July 8-12 July 15-19

HOURS Morning Care: 7:30 - 8 am Drop-off: 8:00 - 8:30 am Camp: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm Pick-Up: 3:45 - 4:15 pm Aftercare: 4:15 - 5:30 pm

• Cyber Academy • University Prep Program • Engineering • Explore Environmental Sciences • Culinary Skills • Fibonacci Math • Screenwriting Reserve your child’s spot:

www.ugasummer.com

https://atlantagirlsschool.org/camp

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

VI S I T C A M P U S T O D AY ! F I N D O U T M OR E AT: W W W. W E S L E YA N S C HO O L . O R G / A DM I S S I O N S June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

SPACES

Real Estate & Home

HOME SALES

The Mansions at Sandy Springs Opens Soon By Kathy Dean The Mansions at Sandy Springs Assisted Living & Memory Care community is scheduled to open around the beginning of July. While the name says “Sandy Springs,” the actual location is in Peachtree Corners. “The new community is perfectly located and draws heavy interest from Dunwoody, Peachtree Corners and lower Alpharetta,” said Jyl Batterman, Marketing Director for the Mansions at Sandy Springs Assisted Living & Memory Care. The assisted living community’s homelike setting is bright and offers wide, roomy hallways and many spacious, senior-friendly gathering rooms. Apartments include granite countertops in the kitchenettes and bathrooms, and walk-in showers. The wide

Market Snapshot By Alan Kaplan Home Sales remain robust throughout Metro Atlanta. Based on recent jobs numbers released by the Federal Government, unemployment is at its lowest level since 1969 at 3.6%. And, for the first time in seven years, wages have grown at the same rate as home prices. These numbers, along with lower interest rates, should continue to fuel the strong home

variety of price points and living options that are available have been designed to meet the financial and care needs of many residents. “As a continuum of The Mansions’ respected reputation in Georgia, there’s a strong focus on caring service and wellness for all residents,” Batterman said. The FOX Wellness Program, found only at The Mansions properties, features FOX therapists who establish high levels of wellness; the program is offered at no extra cost to residents. Wellness also extends into the restaurant-style dining room. The chef designs the menu to include fresh food and seasonal choices, so everyone enjoys freshly-made meals. The Mansions Assisted Living & Memory Care stresses quality of life for memory care residents and has allocated nearly 50% of the building to the Daybreak neighborhood. “The Daybreak program addresses all residents as individuals with attention to various stages of dementia,” Batterman explained. A large, beautiful outdoor space allows residents to enjoy nature and fresh air. “Included in our desire to meet our residents’ needs is 24/7 care, housekeeping, transportation and a full range of activities, in the building and off campus,” Batterman said. In addition to planned social activities, church and synagogue services and educational programs are available for residents. ■

buying trend we are currently experiencing. At time of publication, Mortgage Rates are as follows: ■ 30-year fixed at 4.125%, down 0.625% from this time last year, ■ 15-year fixed at 3.5%, and ■ Jumbo Loans, which are traditionally higher than 30-year fixed, fell to 4.0%. Based on a $400,000 sales price, the lower interest rate on the 30-year fixed rate would save a borrower $148 per month or would allow them to qualify for a $30,000 higher purchase price. ■

Avocet

Neely Farm

(Entire Subdivision, Peachtree Corners and Dunwoody) February-April 2019

February-April 2019

Homes for Sale: 16 Homes Sold: 4 New Listings: 15 Avg. For Sale Price: $631,000 Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $150/ft Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 40 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 95% Median Sold Price: $599,000 Months of Inventory: 3.5 months

Homes for Sale: 3 Homes Sold: 1 New Listings: 2 Avg. For Sale Price: $370,000 Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $76/ft Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 2 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 100% Median Sold Price: $289,000 Months of Inventory: 0.3 months

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

23.1%

▲

FOR SALE Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $132/ft Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 72 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 97% Median Sold Price: $318K Months of Inventory: 2.8 months

peachtreecornerslife

21.8%

▼

SOLD

5.5% ▲44%

▲

0% 0% ▲55.1%

Gwinnett County Feb-April 2019 vs. Feb-April 2018

21.8%

▲

FOR SALE Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $107/ft Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 59 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 97% Median Sold Price: $248K Months of Inventory: 2.5 months

3.3%

▼

SOLD

3% ▲9.3% ▲

1% 0% ▲25.5% ▼

Metro Atlanta Feb-April 2019 vs. Feb-April 2018

23.2%

▲

Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $139/ft

Lockridge Forest

Feb-April 2019 vs. Feb-April 2018

FOR SALE

NEIGHORHOOD SALES SPOTLIGHT

Homes for Sale: 8 Homes Sold: 5 New Listings: 5 Avg. For Sale Price: $374,925 Avg. Price Per Sq. Ft. Sold $156/ft Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 46 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 98.5% Median Sold Price: $335,000 Months of Inventory: 0.8 months

Peachtree Corners

Avg. Continuous Days on Market: 61 days Sold vs. Orig. List Price: 96% Median Sold Price: $279K Months of Inventory: 3 months

peachtreecornerslife

3.9%

▼

SOLD

4% ▲8.9% ▼1% 0% ▲29.9% ▲

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

From the Mayor’s Desk

Town Center Grand Opening, a Day to Remember dren told me that we need to expand the play area since it was crowded. We appreciate your feedback and will follow up on your suggestions.

The last Saturday in April turned out to be a picture-perfect day to celebrate the grand opening of our new Town Center. It was six years in the making to get to this day, and all of us on the council and city staff worked tirelessly to create a unique venue that would serve as a gathering place for the community. As part of the grand opening event, the Town Green officially opened with great fanfare featuring a ribbon-cutting, a parade, led by the Norcross High School Marching band, a Children’s Plaza dedication, and recognition of the city’s Veterans’ Monument. The afternoon and evening was filled with strolling musicians, stilt-walkers, balloon sculpture artists, food and drink, a live concert and ended with a remarkable drone show. The crowd of approximately 4,000 was primarily families having a great time. The teak deck overlooking the Green has plenty of comfortable seating and the grassy area in front of the stage is a perfect place to set up lawn chairs and enjoy the concerts that will take place throughout the coming months. You can find a complete listing of upcoming events posted on the city’s website. Click on the link marked Town Center Events near the top right side of the homepage. Be sure to bookmark the page to keep up with all the activities. The Town Green features a children’s play area that has a play structure and a giant slide along with lawn games such as Connect Four, Cornhole and others. I walked around most of the day and got lots of compliments and feedback. Several parents want more seating in the kids’ play area so they don’t have to stand. Two chil-

We also heard that the slide, which was a tremendous draw, gets hot during the middle of the day despite the mats. The slide isn’t quite complete as a shade structure will soon be installed which should address the issue of the hot surface. The concert was well-attended, and everyone enjoyed the sound system and viewing screen. A couple of citizens felt the performance stage was too low from where they sat so we will look at ways to make the stage area more visible. Thanks for your feedback, after all, this space is the “city’s backyard.” Our staff will be tweaking and perfecting the Town Green from now on for any issues that arise. Still to be added is the botanical garden walk that will run along the creek that divides the Town Center from the developments to the south. It will feature a walk along a wooded path that leads to the Town Green. We will update you as this second phase of the Town Center moves along. Council members Phil Sadd, Eric Christ, Alex Wright, Jeanne Aulbach, Lorri Christopher, Weare Gratwick and I would like to thank you for your support in the development of the Town Center which will be a tremendous asset to the city, not only for all who live here, but for the future economic growth of our city. This was a monumental project for our young city that has yet to reach its 7th year anniversary. Please contact us with your feedback and suggestions for the Town Green. Our contact emails and telephone numbers are listed on the city’s website. Use the link at the top of the homepage labeled “Contact Us” to access a complete list of contacts. We look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Mike Mason, Mayor

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

Mike Mason, Mayor

Gwinnett County’s newest and largest city, Peachtree Corners, was founded July 1, 2012 and is located along the Chattahoochee River in the southwest corner of the county. The city is home to over 40,000 residents and 2,300 businesses.

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

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Veterans Monument Dedication June 15 Mark your calendars for the formal dedication of the Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. on the Town Green. Sculptures representing the five branches of the Armed Forces and a sculpture of an eagle atop the central pillar will be unveiled as part of the ceremonies. Visit the Veterans Monument website for more information: https://www.ptcvets.net/

Holiday Trash and Recycle Pickup Schedule

Two upcoming national holidays will affect when your garbage and recycle carts are picked up. This year Memorial Day is observed on Monday, May 27, which means there will be no garbage and recycle pickup on this day. And Independence Day falls on Thursday, July 4. As a result, the pickup dates for these two weeks will change. Memorial Day: The week’s schedule will shift one day. If your pickup day is Monday, it will be moved to Tuesday and so forth. Those residents scheduled for Friday pickup will receive service on Saturday. Independence Day: The Fourth of July holiday falls on a Thursday this year. There will be no pickup on this day. Residents scheduled for Thursday will receive service on Friday and residents with a Friday pickup schedule will receive service on Saturday. For questions Contact Waste Management by email at southatlantic-cs@wm.com or by telephone: 404-794-6707.

Keep Up With Upcoming Events at the Town Green Now that the Town Green is open, you may expect a slate of activities, concerts and other events to take place on the Town Green throughout the year. Events are posted on the City Calendar which is located on the City’s website. To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the upcoming events, sign up to receive email reminders. It’s easy to subscribe. On the city’s website (https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/ home), click on the link at the top of the page labeled “Notify Me!,” select eNotifications, then select the topics you are interested in. Email notices are sent out six days in advance of the event.

PEACHTREE CORNERS

Expect Evening Lanes Closures on Section of S.R. 141

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ June/ July 2019 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

For those who travel on S.R. 141 south of Holcomb Bridge Road, please be aware of overnight lane closures. Georgia DOT is repaving S.R. 141 between Holcomb Bridge Road and I-285; work will occur between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Please use caution and expect traffic to slow while the work is done. The road improvement project includes milling, inlay and resurfacing -- the work is expected to be complete by the end of August barring any weather delays. Before heading out, call 511 or visit www.511ga.org to get the latest on traffic conditions.

PEACHTREE CORNER

peachtreecornersga

PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Free Photo and Video Classes for Residents

Annual Summer Open Burn Ban Began May 1 The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) imposes a total ban on outdoor burning in 54 Counties – including Gwinnett County - annually from May 1 to September 30. The Georgia EPD imposes a ban on outdoor burning to comply with Federal Clean Air Regulations. During the summer months in Georgia, the ozone in the air we breathe can reach unhealthy levels. The Georgia EPD has identified open burning as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone. Consequently, open burning in metro Atlanta and larger counties must be restricted during the summer months. From May 1 – September 30, the Open Burning Ban prohibits citizens and businesses from burning yard and land-clearing debris. This rule is in addition to the year-round state ban on the burning of household garbage. If you suspect someone is improperly burning, please report it by calling 770-513-5700. For additional information, please contact the Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services at 678-5184980 or go to the Gwinnett County Fire Marshal website at www.gwinnettfiremarshal.com or call EPD Metro Atlanta District Office: 404-362-2671 (Carroll, Clayton, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Heard, Henry, Rockdale, Spalding counties).

The City is working with Tytan Pictures, an Emmy-award-winning company, to provide instruction on a variety of photography and video topics. The classes cover everything from camera basics, lighting techniques and landscape photography to tips for advanced photographers. Check the city calendar on the city’s website, www.peachtreecornersga.gov for upcoming classes and information on how to register, location and times. Classes are available only for those who live or work in the city.

What are the Benefits of Building Green? Building green means living better, smarter and healthier. Just by choosing energy-efficient building materials and supplies, homeowners can make positive changes to both the inside and outside environments, creating homes that are better for you and our world. Building green does not necessarily mean starting from scratch or spending more money. There are many ways to improve the green factor in existing homes by using longer-lasting and sustainable materials ■ Use energy-efficient light bulbs, turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use. ■ Seal air leaks. ■ Install programmable thermostats. ■ Upgrade windows, heating and air conditioning equipment. ■ Change filters frequently. ■ Install more insulation in walls, floors and attics.

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

■ Choose energy efficient appliances. ■ If you are building new, consider the best position on the lot for trapping light and energy, and make use of energy-efficient foundation, framing, plumbing, wiring and HVAC systems now available. ■ Green homes are also healthier homes, reducing mold, mildew and other allergens that contribute to asthma and other significant health issues. Below are tips for keeping your home dry and mold-free: ■ Keep it dry: install a drain pan under the water heater; place dehumidifiers in basements and other damp areas; position downspouts away from the house; repair any water damage. ■ Keep it clean: use track-off mats at all doorways; clean up dust to eliminate contaminants such as lead dust and allergens. ■ Keep it ventilated: install or replace exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens (make sure they vent to the outside). ■ Keep it contaminant-free: use wire shelving that doesn’t collect dust; have your home tested for radon and lead-based paint. For questions contact Mark Mitchell, Building Official, mmitchell@peachtreecornersga.gov

June/ July 2019 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS How to Prevent Illicit Discharge from Entering Stormwater Drains Stormwater runoff flows from rooftops, driveways, paved roads, bare soil, and lawns into stormwater drainage systems, which includes catch basins, yard inlets, pipes, ditches, ponds and streams. It picks up pollutants and transports them directly to our waterways where they are discharged with no treatment and hurt our environment.

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 including: ■ Septic Tank / 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: ■ Never dump anything down storm drains ■ Use lawn and garden chemicals

■ Direct downspouts onto grassy areas ■ Wash your vehicle on grass instead

sparingly; sweep up any excess from paved areas

of the driveway

■ Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints

■ 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

and other household chemicals in an approved manner

To report a suspected stormwater discharge violation: ■ Use the City’s Fix-It App, ■ Access the city’s website, under the

“How Do I” tab select “Report an Issue, or

■ Call: 770-513-5700

■ Keep grass clippings,

leaves, litter, and debris out of street gutters and storm drains

City Earns 2nd Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

Recycle-Shredding Day Results

Peachtree Corners has been honored with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the second straight year. The award was presented by the Government Finance Officers Association, a national association focused on government finance policy and management. The award represents a significant achievement by the city’s Finance Department and its Finance Director. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff in meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. It is the 6-year-old city’s second time applying for the award and signifies the city’s commitment to transparency in its budgeting process. “The city is dedicated to fiscal responsibility at every level and this award proves our commitment,” said Brian Johnson, City Manager. “The award also illustrates the city’s commitment to communications in the budgeting process.” To receive the budget award, the city had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for

The City’s recycle-shredding day was a big success.

effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well the city’s budget serves as: • A policy document • A financial plan • An operations guide • A communications device Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, and in the 14 mandatory criteria within each of those categories to receive the award. “This is an important award that validates Peachtree Corners’ commitment to responsible and successful budgeting,” said Brandon Branham, Finance Director. “We strive for excellence in all financial matters and appreciate this national recognition for our ongoing efforts.” The Government Finance Officers Association is a non-profit organization serving the needs of more than 19,000 government finance professionals throughout North America. The association is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with offices in Washington D.C.

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ June/ July 2019 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

peachtreecornersga

17,400 lbs.

of paper was shredded

14,321 lbs.

of electronics were collected for recycling. The event takes place each April to coincide with Earth Day and is open to Peachtree Corners residents only.

peachtreecornersga

PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS City Celebrates Arbor Day at Paul Duke STEM High School Construction Underway to add AV Test Track on Technology Parkway

Orange barrels line portions of Technology Park as work gets underway to reconfigure the road to accommodate two extra lanes for an autonomous vehicle test track that will run the length of Technology Parkway. The track is expected to be complete by mid-summer. Please use caution while driving through Tech Park. When complete, the 1.5-mile intelligent mobility track, called “Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners,” will feature Sprint’s 5G and IoT technology. This state-of-the-art living laboratory will offer a real-world testing site for autonomous and advanced vehicle technologies. Prototype Prime, the city’s startup incubator, will be the headquarters for this exciting project. For questions, contact Betsy Plattenburg via email at betsy@prototypeprime.com. The startup incubator is located at 147 Technology Parkway.

Coding and Data Science Classes Offered at Prototype Prime The first Coding Boot Camp was so popular, Prototype Prime, the city’s startup incubator, is again collaborating with Georgia Tech to offer a second Coding Boot Camp. The 24-week classes begin on May 28 and covers front-end and back-end technologies. Visit the Prototype Prime website, www.prototypeprime.com, for more details and to register for the class. Additionally, Georgia Tech will be offering two Data Science Boot Camps beginning in early August. More information on these classes are posted on Prototype Prime’s website as well. For questions, please contact Betsy Plattenburg at Prototype Prime at betsy@prototypeprime.com or call (470) 550-1727.

On Friday, April 26, the Peachtree Corners Community joined Paul Duke STEM High School students, faculty, the mayor and councilmembers to celebrate its fourth Arbor Day event. The festivities took place on the school grounds and included planting three Serviceberry trees. During the event students learned proper tree pruning techniques and guidelines for watering newly planted trees. The event was hosted by the city of Peachtree Corners. Mayor Mike Mason and councilmembers Phil Sadd, Eric Christ and Jeanne Aulbach joined the celebration. The Arbor Day event included the winner of the biggest-tree contest. Residents Carol and Mark Reifenberger located the largest tree, found growing at Simpsonwood Park. The tree measured 67 DBH (diameter breast height). The Reifenbergers won a gift certifi-

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

cate to Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. Arbor Day is set aside for schools, civic clubs and other organizations, as well as individuals to reflect on the importance of trees in our state and across the nation. “Trees are an essential part of the city,” said Councilmember Jeanne Aulbach. “A healthy urban forest provides benefits including air and water pollution mitigation, habitat for wildlife and storm water runoff reduction.” All who participated had the option of taking home a little “Arbor” in the form of wildflower seeds and tree seedlings. Peachtree Corners was recently recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA. There are 155 Tree Cities USA in Georgia and nearly 30 percent of the state’s population resides in a Tree City. Nationwide there are more than 3,400 Tree City USA communities.

June/ July 2019 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

>>Peachtree Corners Town Center Opening Brings the City Together More than 4,000 residents, guests and dignitaries gathered on April 27 to celebrate the official opening of the Peachtree Corners Town Center. Peachtree Corners residents had the opportunity to experience the 2-acre Town Green, the neighborhood gathering place that serves as a centerpiece of the 21-acre Town Center development. Everyone took in the sights, listened to music, watched their children enjoy the play structures and visited with neighbors. “Our vision, simply put, was to create a place where our citizens could make memories together. A place where parents can be confident that their children can play safely while they enjoy music, or a movie, a meal with friends,” said Mayor Mike Mason at the ribbon-cutting. When complete, the Town Center development will include 15 restaurants, numerous shops, office space and 73 townhomes adjacent to the Town Green.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

Have you done your research? Use our School Comparison Guide to help you decide if GAC is a fit for your child. Visit bit.ly/choosewell2019

Come immerse yourself in our faith-infused, academically rich community. Schedule a visit at bit.ly/tourgac.

Suburban Med Spa The Latest procedure in microneedling and dermaplaning

20% OFF

Deep collagen induction therapy

Customized for your personal needs

EXPIRES JULY 31, 2019

Microneedling

Yes, Even for Our Current Clients

Massage

Yes, Even for Our Current Clients

4989 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

(678) 282-0051 SurbubanMedSpa.com June / July 2019 â&#x2013; Peachtree Corners Magazine

PEACHTREE CORNERS HAS A NEW PLACE FOR A DATE NIGHT.

The VIP Dinner-And-A-Movie experience is NOW OPEN at Peachtree Corners Town Center. Book your tickets at cmxcinemas.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ June / July 2019 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

peachtreecornerslife

JENNIE H. 100 lbs. lost with Profile

DIETS DON’T WORK. PROFILE DOES. Discover a new you! Centered around 1-on-1 coaching, personal nutrition plans, and DNA testing, Profile makes losing weight simple, effective, and most of all sustainable. Come in for a free coach consultation and find out how you can lose 3x more weight with a coach.

P rofil e b y S a nf ord

N orc ros s - P eac h t ree C o rn er s, GA 6135 Peachtree Pkwy Suite 201-A Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

(770) 830-2837

www.profileplan.com

CALL OR STOP IN TO OUR PEACHTREE CORNERS LOCATION & START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY! June / July 2019 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

You never knew senior living could look like this. Bungalows

Cottages

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Learn more about our additional locations, services and amenities at villageparkseniorliving.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine â&#x2013; June / July 2019 â&#x2013; LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Memory Care

VILLAGE PARK PEACHTREE CORNERS 5701 Spalding Dr. Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-416-0502

Village Park Senior Living offers a carefree lifestyle where you can uncover new passions and enjoy doing more of what makes you happy.

peachtreecornerslife