Knob Trail,
PEACHTREE CORNERS MAGAZINE
EDITORIAL
EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER
RICO FIGLIOLINI
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
SHAWNE TAYLOR
EDITOR EMERITUS
KATHY DEAN
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT
RITA FIGLIOLINI
ADVERTISING
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
JULIE DAVIS julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com
SHAY THOMAS shaythomas@mightyrockets.com
instagram.com/peachtreecornerslife facebook.com/peachtreecornerslife twitter.com/peachtreecrnrs www.pinterest.com/ PeachtreeCornersMagazine
PEACHTREECORNERS
PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. P. O. BOX 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com
Peachtree Corners Magazine is published six times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines.
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2025 issue Volume 7 Number 37 ©2025 Peachtree Corners Magazine
The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com. This publication is independently and privately owned, and managedby Mighty Rockets LLC
/ MARCH
RICO FIGLIOLINI
Publisher & Executive Editor
Rico Figliolini is a creative director and social media strategist, three-time magazine publisher and podcast host. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and is a political junky, sci-fi and anime fan, and avid reader and movie binger.
RITA FIGLIOLINI
Editorial Consultant
Rita Figliolini has lived in PTC for 23 years with her husband and life partner, Rico Figliolini. Proud mom of 3 — Jason, Kinsey and Jack. Former Managing Editor of the original Inside Gwinnett, she’s now Advisor to PTC Magazine. Telling stories is in our blood!
JULIE DAVIS
Account Executive
Julie Davis is an accomplished sales rep with over 20 years of experience in the telecom industry. When not working or spending time with friends and family, Julie can be found melting glass, as she is an avid fused glass artist.
HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR
Graphic Designer
Harry J. Pinkney, Jr is an accomplished Graphic Designer with over 25 years of experience. A Philadelphia native who now calls Atlanta his home. He enjoys his dog, Chloeé, working out, movies, and running his own freelance graphic/ web design business.
GEORGE HUNTER
Photographer
George Hunter is an IT professional from Alaska by way of Texas. His primary hobby is photography, covering a wide range of subjects from pets to cosplay, sports to fashion. Volunteering and fostering dogs brings him much joy. George, his wife Lila and their rescued dogs have made their home in west Gwinnett for almost 20 years.
KRISTEN CORLEY
Writer
Kristen Corley is an Atlanta native with over a decade of experience in content creation. She lives in Historic Norcross with her family and writes “Young Norcross,” a weekly newsletter that focuses on building community and local engagement.
PEACHTREECORNERS
April/May 2025 | Deadline March 17
SHAWNE TAYLOR
Contributing Editor / Newsletter Editor
Shawne Taylor is an experienced writer/editor specializing in travel, lifestyle and arts & entertainment. In her spare time, she’s learning Japanese and enjoys reading, anime, music, gaming and K-dramas. She’s lived in PTC with her family since 2014.
ARLINDA SMITH BROADY
Senior Writer
Arlinda Smith Broady is of the Boomerang Generation of Blacks that moved back to the South after ancestors moved North. With 30 years of journalism experience, she’s worked in tiny newsrooms to major metropolitans. She brings professionalism, passion, pluck, and the desire to spread news.
KATHY DEAN
Editor Emeritus
Kathy Dean has been a writer and editor for over 20 years. Some of the publications she has contributed to are Atlanta Senior Life, Atlanta INtown, Transatlantic Journal and The Guide to Coweta and Fayette Counties.
PATRIZIA WINSPER
Writer
Patrizia hails from Toronto, Canada where she earned an Honors B.A. in French and Italian Studies at York University, and a B.Ed. at the University of Toronto. This trilingual former French teacher has called Georgia home since 1998. Catch her reporting about our vibrant city on the Peachtree Corners Network.
RAINA LOGAN
Podcast Production
Raina Logan is a highly accomplished audio engineer, music producer, and talented writer. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience as the owner of an esteemed audio production company, Raina seamlessly merges her creative writing skills with her technical expertise, shaping unforgettable auditory journeys.
TRACEY RICE
Photographer
After a long career in global marketing for Fortune 500 companies like The Coca-Cola Company and Texas Instruments, Tracey earned a degree in Commercial Photography and now owns her own photography business. She specializes in portraits, events and real estate photography. She is the President of the Peachtree Corners Photography Club.
• THE HOME ISSUE 10 Neighborhoods and Properties You Can Call Home
• Summer Camp, Faces of Real Estate, Bike Month (MAY)
May/June 2025 | Deadline April 17
• Reflection on Motherhood and Leadership
• Commericial Real Estate Overview, The Summer Outdoor Guide
FIRST UP - EVENTS Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do
ONGOING
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Saturday & holidays: 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.;
Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.
Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville vangoghexpo.com/atlanta
Tickets: Adults (ages 13+), $39.90; children (4-12), $23.90; seniors (65+), students (13-26) and military, $33.90; VIP tickets and group or family bundles available.
Visitors of all ages are invited to step into Vincent van Gogh’s paintings in this touring immersive art exhibit. Van Gogh’s most compelling works are displayed as two-story projections filling 20,000 square feet. The sight-and sound-experience lasts about 60 to 75 minutes.
Titanic: An Immersive Voyage
Monday, Thursday and Friday 10a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Closed Tuesday & Wednesday.
Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville
Tickets: $22.90-$44.90; VIP tickets and group or family bundles available.
expo-titanic.com/atlanta
Visitors of all ages are invited to hop aboard the Titanic and walk through life-sized recreations of parts of the ship. Discover an impressive collection of artifacts related to the Titanic. VIP ticket holders can also explore the ship’s underwater wreck site in an exclusive VR experience.
Peachtree Corners
Photography Club Group Meet Up
Thursdays, February 13 and March 13. 6:45-8:15 p.m.
Atlanta Tech Park
107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org
Admission: free
Photographers of all skill levels are welcome to attend these monthly meetups; come early at 6:15 p.m. for social time.
FEBRUARY
The “Much More” of Our Faith
February 5, 12, 19 and 26. 10-11 a.m. or 6-7 p.m.
Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church 5100 South Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross mtcarmel-umc.org, 770-449-4498
Four-week study of the book of Romans, chapters 1-5, with discussions on the topics of repentance, justification and righteousness. Participants may attend the morning or evening meetings.
Lunar New Year
Lion Dance
February 8. 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Gwinnett County Public Library —
Norcross Branch
5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154
Admission: free
All ages are welcome to celebrate the Lunar New Year as the talented students of FASCA Atlanta perform with a shadow puppet show and lion dance.
Presidents’ Day Weekend
February 15-16. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 12-5 p.m.
Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth train-museum.org, 770-476-2013
Admission: $18 adults; $15 seniors (65+) and students (13-21 with ID); $12 ages 2-12,
There will be docent-led tours of two Presidential Pullmans — the 1911 Superb used by President Warren Harding and the 1927 Marco Polo used by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
Author Talk with Marie Benedict
February 18. 1-2 p.m.
Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main St., Duluth gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154
Admission: free; registration is recommended.
Join New York Times bestselling author Marie Benedict as she discusses her newest novel, “The Queens of Crime.” Books will be available for sale and signing from Johns Creek Books. Ages 19 and up.
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
February 19-March 16. Multiple showtimes & venues
Virtual streaming is available ajff.org
Tickets: $13-$50 depending on showtime/event; $240 for virtual streaming pass
This year’s festival will present 50 films — 22 documentaries and 28 narrative works — that celebrate the diversity of Jewish experiences around the globe. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, screenings, receptions, special events and a closing
Scan the QR Code to view this year’s movie trailers.
night awards show will take place at multiple venues throughout metro Atlanta.
Storytime Special:
African Folklore
February 27. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154
Admission: free
Children are invited to listen to African Folklore tales told by professional storyteller Sharon Riggs in celebration of Black History Month.
MARCH
GriefShare Support Group at Christ the King Saturdays, March 8-May 24. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Christ the King Lutheran Church 5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
ctklutheran.org, 770-449-1211
Admission: free
A safe, welcoming space to help individuals navigate the difficult emotions of grief, the group will meet on Saturdays for 13 weeks starting March 8. Register at
Building Champions: GAC’s Game Plan for Athletics
March 9. 3 p.m.
Greater Atlanta Christian School, Hoover Field House 1575 Indian Trail Road, Norcross greateratlantachristian.org, 770243-2000
Athletics Open House hosted by GAC admissions. Open to prospective rising 6th-12th grade families. RSVP if you plan to attend.
Ladies Spring Event
March 10. 6-8 p.m.
Peachtree Corners Baptist Church 4480 Peachtree Corners Cir., Peachtree Corners
pcbchurch.org, 770-448-1313
Join Caroline Saunders, author of the recent Lifeway Bible Study, “Come Home,” for an evening of dinner and engaging discussion. Registration opens February 1.
The Caboose!
March 13. 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth train-museum.org, 770-476-2013
Admission: $20 participating child + adult; $15 per additional child or adult
Part of the Second Thursday preschool program, this month’s focus is the caboose. Admission includes a caboose-themed story, arts & crafts, social activity, a walk through a historic caboose and a ride on the park train.
Shamrock ‘n’ Roll
March 15. 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Mary
February 5-8
Computer Museum of America
5000 Commerce Pkwy, Roswell revvedupkids.org/events/shamrock
Tickets: $110-$175; sponsorship packages are also available Vegas-style casino night with games, food and drinks, hosted by Peachtree Corners nonprofit, Revved Up Kids. Money raised will go towards furthering their mission of protecting children and teens from sexual abuse and trafficking.
Local Theatre & School Performaces
Wesleyan School Powell Theatre
5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org, 770-448-7640
About the show: The Wolf Players present this play based on the Disney musical. Magical nanny Mary Poppins takes her charges, Jane and Michael Banks, on memorable adventures and teaches them valuable lessons. But the children aren’t the only ones who feel the profound effect of Mary Poppins.
PDS Band February Concert
Monday, February 26. 7 p.m.
Paul Duke STEM High School 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-3600
Admission: free
The Paul Duke STEM High School Orchestra performs a winter concert.
The Little Mermaid
March 7-9
Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross greateratlantachristian.org, 770-243-2000
About the show: Based on the 1989 Disney film and the Hans Christian Andersen tale, the Little Mermaid is a musical about a mermaid who trades her voice to become human and find true love. Presented by the GAC High School drama department.
The Man Who Came to Dinner
March 7-23
Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.
Special matinee Saturday, March 22, 2 p.m.
Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022
Tickets: $18 adults; $16 for seniors/ students/military ID
About the show: Critic, lecturer and radio orator, Sheridan Whiteside, having dined at the home of the Stanleys, slips on their doorstep and breaks his hip. The result is a tumultuous six weeks of confinement as he turns the Stanley household upside down, forcing everyone in town to cater to his egotistical demands.
Chicago Teen Edition
March 27-28, 6 p.m.; March 29, 2 p.m.
Paul Duke STEM High School 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-3600
Tickets: $10 students; $12 adults; $7 ages 5 and under
About the show: This high school production of the legendary and award-winning musical, presented by the PDS International Thespian Society, tells the story of fame, fortune and acquittal with modified, more age-appropriate content. Best for ages 11 and up.
Poppins
Town Green Calendar
5140 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov
Scan QR for Calendar ►
Bark at the Park
March 15. 2-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Enjoy a day filled with carnival-style games, vendors showcasing the latest dog treats, toys and accessories and an exciting lineup of activities and challenges that will keep you and your canine companions entertained.
PTC Arbor Day Plant Sale & Swap
March 29. 12-5 p.m.
Admission: free
More details coming soon.
Toddler
Time
CrossFit Thursdays (March-November)
8 a.m.
March 6, 13, 20 and 27
This strength and conditioning program uses functional movements performed at high intensity to help you achieve good health and better fitness. Led by Terrence Fox with CrossFit PPG.
5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com/events
Scan QR for more information ►
Galentine’s Day
February 13. 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Admission: free
Enjoy special treats, refreshments and great deals with your favorite girl friends on The Plaza. There will be a craft station, pop-up bar, complimentary massages, rom com on the LED screen, photo opportunities and more for an evening of fun.
Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights
5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-978-5154 | gwinnettpl.org
Admission: free
February 4, 11 and 18; March 4, 11 and 18. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Admission: free
For kids ages 2 and under. The program includes simple stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and movement activities to introduce story time to little learners in a fun way.
Preschool Storytime
February 6, 13 and 20; March 6, 13 and 20. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Admission: free
Open to kids ages 3-5 and their caregivers. The program includes simple stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and movement activities to introduce story time to little learners in a fun way.
READing Paws
February 6. 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Admission: free
Children ages 6-11 are invited to practice reading skills with trained therapy dogs. Please see a staff member to sign up early!
Knitted Together
February 12 and March 12. 6-7 p.m.
Join us in knitting and crocheting while connecting with other community members! All skill levels are welcome.
Get Moving with Zumba
February 13. 1-2 p.m.
Admission: free
You are invited to join us for a free, fun and motivational Zumba class. Come with an open mindset to explore traditional Latino dances as you exercise. No dancing experience needed. Registration required.
Great Backyard Bird Count
February 13. 4- 5 p.m.
Admission: free
Want to join the Great Backyard Bird Count? This workshop will help you prepare for the event. Participants will also make a simple bird feeder.
Chess Boards & Checker Crowns
February 13 and 27; March 13 and 27. 6-7 p.m.
Admission: free
Learn how to play, learn more about or just enjoy the classic board games
of chess and checkers. All games are friendly matches and open to all skill levels.
Hearts & Tints: A painting lesson
February 14. 1-2 p.m.
Admission: free
This tints and shades painting lesson for kids is an excellent hands-on introduction for young artists! Ages 6-11. Registration required.
Hibernation: Who does it? And how?
February 17. 1-2 p.m.
Admission: free
Bears hibernate but who else? Come and learn more about hibernation and the critters that do it, and make a fun little cozy critter to take home with you! Ages 6-11.
Pocket Libraries: Build Your Own Mini-Library
February 17. 3-4 p.m.
Create your own charming tin box library filled with your favorite books and share your love for reading in a fun and creative way. Perfect for all ages!
Painting Like Alma Thomas
February 19. 4-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Learn about the vibrant colors of Alma Thomas’s paintings. Create your own painting inspired by her work. Ages 6-11.
Luck of The Forum
March 15. 4-6 p.m.
Admission: free
Experience a purely gold St. Patrick’s Day celebration on The Plaza, featuring music, dancing and Irish flair.
Homeschool Hangout:
WPA and African American Artists
February 20. 11a.m.-12 p.m.
Admission: free
Our monthly get together for homeschooling families. This month we are learning about the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and African American Artists. Registration required.
Author Talk |
Laura Elizabeth
February 21. 12-1 p.m.
Admission: free; registration is recommended.
Join author Laura Elizabeth as she discusses her newest book in The Island Mysteries series, “A Special Kind of Heartache.” Books will be available for purchase and signing. Ages 19 and up.
The Forum North Plaza
Design a Parachute
March 5. 2-3 p.m.
Admission: free Fly into spring by learning how to make your own paper parachute. Ages 6-11.
Malala’s Magic Pencil
March 5. 4-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Hear the story of Malala’s Magic Pencil. Kids will make their own artwork about what they would do with their own magic pencil. Ages 6-11.
Introduction to Raspberry Pi: Explore, Learn, Create
March 6. 2-3 p.m.
Admission: free
An engaging intro to Raspberry Pi, a fun mini-computer that lets you create amazing projects! Discover its capabilities, explore exciting projects, and learn how this versatile tool can enhance your creativity and problem-solving skills. Ages 6-15.
Simplest Machines; Big Innovation
March 11. 4-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Did you ever wonder how a simple triangle can hold a large door open? That’s simple machines at work! Come see how each and every machine helps us and how you too can use simple machines. Ages 6-15.
Women’s History Month: Inspire Inclusion
March 13. 1-2 p.m.
Admission: free
Norcross Gallery and Studios
116 Carlyle St., Norcross | norcrossgalleryandstudios.org, 770-840-9844
Check their website for costs and up-to-date information.
Exhibits
Abstract Ideas
Through February 8.
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: free
Showcasing varied works and approaches and featuring outstanding representations of abstract ideas designed to provoke viewers to discover a new appreciation of the genre.
Limitless
February 13-March 22
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: free
Special juried exhibit show featuring work from local artists.
Ongoing Sessions
Figure and Portrait Study Sessions
Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m.
Cost: $16 for members; $22 for non-members; package pricing available
Organizers: Lynda Ellis, lyndaellis@ gmail.com; Anne Emerson Hall, annehallstudio@yahoo.com
Daytime Open Studio
Thursdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: free for members, $5 for non-members
Organizer: Anne Labaire, labaireart@gmail.com
Saturday Open Studio
Saturdays, 1-4 p.m.
Cost: free for members; $5 for non-members
Organizer: Kathy Collins
Let’s celebrate women in honor of Women’s History Month! Join us as we applaud and acknowledge the powerful influence they’ve had in building community through education, mentorship and leadership. Ages 19 and up.
Recycled Engineering: Bridge Building
March 13. 4-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Use engineering, problem solving and math skills to design and build a bridge that can support weight. Supplies are provided but limited. Ages 6-15.
Saint Patrick’s Day Agamograph
March 17. 4-5 p.m.
Admission: free
Learn a brief history of Saint Patrick’s Day. Make an agamograph, an optical illusion picture. Ages 6-11.
Homeschool Hangout: Birthdays Around the World
March 20. 11:00 a.m.-12 p.m.
Admission: free
Monthly get-together for homeschooling families. This month we’ll learn about birthdays around the world. Ages 6-11.
Hiking: Adventures on the Trail
March 20. 1-2 p.m.
Admission: free
Guest Speaker Robert Bobinski, Appalachian Trail outreach director, will inspire you to get outdoors and on to a hiking trail. He will share numerous facts and fascinating experiences about his life changing adventures on the trail. Ages 19 and up.
Historic Norcross
Movie Mondays — Art of Love
February 10. 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
About the film: After learning that the art thief she has been chasing is her ex-lover, an officer working for Interpol concocts a plan to catch him red-handed. TV-MA. Running time: 1hr 39m.
Valentine’s Night to Remember
February 14. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Downtown Norcross 5666 Buford Hwy., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Share a romantic evening carriage ride, renew your vows and capture the magic with a complimentary photo. Then enjoy a cozy dinner at one of the local restaurants offering sweet Valentine’s specials.
Valentine’s Father-Daughter Dance
February 15. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: $35 per father-daughter pair; $5 per additional daughters Celebrate the special bond between fathers and daughters with a magical evening filled with dancing, delicious appetizers, drinks and a few sweet surprises.
Movie Mondays — Harriet
February 19. 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
About the film: The film covers the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Rated PG-13. Running time: 2h 5m.
First Friday Concert — Grains of Sand Band
March 7. 7-9 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free; RSVP required
About the band: A 7-piece Carolina Beach ensemble, Grains of Sand Band brings soulful Motown and classic hits to life with powerful vocals, smooth rhythms and an infectious groove.
Irish Fest
March 8. 12-5 p.m.
Downtown Norcross 5666 Buford Hwy., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Experience Irish delights with music, dancing, face painting, balloon twisters, food and more.
Movie Mondays —
Irish Wish
March 10. 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts
Clay Creations
February 13. 6-8 p.m.
and Community Center
10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
About the film: When the love of Maddie’s life gets engaged to her best friend, she puts her feelings aside to be a bridesmaid at their wedding in Ireland. Rated PG. Running time: 1h 33m.
Day of Play
March 14. 5-6 p.m.
Lillian Webb Park Downtown Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
The City of Norcross and Live Healthy Gwinnett invite you to a free evening of games, activities and community fun for all ages.
Movie Mondays — Rez Ball
March 24. 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center
10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net
Admission: free
About the film: The Chuska Warriors, a Native American high school basketball team from New Mexico, must band together after losing their star player if they want to keep their quest for a state championship alive. Rated PG-13. Running time: 1h 51m.
Pinckneyville Park Community Center
4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Berkeley Lake Open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920
Ongoing events
Bridge Act II
Admission: $12 per person
Enjoy a uniquely creative evening learning the basics of clay hand-building, and create your own work of art. Light refreshments will be served. Ages 16 and up.
Mardi Gras Bingo Luncheon
February 28. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Admission: free for Gwinnett residents; $20 per non-Gwinnett resident
Join the Krewe for a traditional New Orleans-style lunch and bingo. For ages 50 and up.
Crafternoon
February 10. 2-3:30 p.m.
GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS
gwinnettparks.com
Glow Skate Party
March 7. 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross 678-225-5400
Admission: $5 for Gwinnett residents; $15 per non-resident Wind down and get creative! Bring a friend or make new friends as we explore the creative process using a variety of art media. Supplies included. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. No previous art experience required. Ages: 50 and up
Greenwood Culture Festival
February 22. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lucky Shoals Park 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross 678-277-0860
Admission: free
Bring the whole family to celebrate Black History Month with music, food and a parade.
Fourth Monday of the month. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Admission: free
For more information, contact JoAnne Leisen at 571-330-4730.
Senior Bridge Club
Thursdays. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Admission: free
Experienced Bridge players ages 50 and up are invited to participate in this trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck.
To register, contact Mary Fender at 678-357-6709 or maryrfender@yahoo.com.
Pinckneyville Park 4758 South Old Peachtree Road, Peachtree Corners
678-277-0920
Admission: free
Bring your skates, wear neon outfits and have loads of glow-in-the-dark fun at the inline hockey rink. There will be a DJ, art, food concessions and more. Free skates available for use; first come, first served.
Resale Market
March 8. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross 678-225-5400
Admission: free; vendors fee is $25 Hunt for bargains at this outdoor sale or do some spring cleaning and sell your wares. Interested vendors must sign up in advance.
Robert D. Fowler
Family YMCA
5600 W. Jones Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners facebook.com/FowlerY/ | 770-246-9622
Active Older Adults Schedule
Coping with Grief & Loss Support Group
Mondays. 11 a.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.
Grief and loss difficult to face, but you don’t have to face them alone. This is a safe and caring environment.
For more information, contact ejgarrett@gmail.com.
Caregivers Group
Tuesdays. 11:45 a.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.
The YMCA’s weekly Caregivers Group provides a dedicated meeting space for caregivers to offer and receive emotional support. The group offers practical information
while respecting confidentiality and encouraging camaraderie.
For more information, contact mcrawley@wans.net.
Lifelong Learners
Every other Friday. 12:15 p.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.
For ages 50 and up, Lifelong Learners offers seniors the chance to come together and enjoy guest speakers, local field trips and spirited cultural discussions. Held in the Senior Center.
For more information, contact AbigailS@ymcaatlanta.org.
Other senior activities: Canasta — Mondays, 2 p.m. in the admin office, second floor Dominoes — Thursdays, 10:45 a.m. in the admin office, second floor
For more information, contact lorri504@gmail.com.
Stand Up Comedy at the Clay!
First Friday of the month
February 7 and March 7. 8 p.m.
Stand-up comedians take to the stage each month. February features
Alex Gettlin and Rachel Laforce, with host Mookie G. March is hosted by Atlanta-based comedian, Yoshee.
Matthew Kaminiski’s Mondo Hammondo
February 8. 8 p.m.
Jazz organist Matthew Kaminiski has been the official organist for the Atlanta Braves since 2009. Mondo Hammondo allows him to dive into more the obscure musical genres of Exotica, Bachelor Pad, Space Age Pop and Lounge Jazz.
3116 Main St., Duluth eddieowenpresents.com
This is an abridged list of events for this venue, please check their website for the full calendar of events
The Third Stream Big Band: A Love Story
February 15. 8 p.m.
Led by emcee and Maestro Jim Basile, the 3rd Stream Big Band will accompany dynamic vocalists to deliver an evening filled with visuals and amazing music.
Tony Trischka’s EarlJam with Special Guest Woody Platt
February 19. 8 p.m.
Tony Trischka, a consummate banjo artist, honors the music of Earl Scruggs, pioneer of the three-finger banjo style and one of the most important musicians in bluegrass.
Yacht Rock Schooner
February 21. 8 p.m.
The eight-man Yacht Rock Schooner specializes in the smooth sounds of the late ’70s and early ’80s.
Robyn Hitchcock
February 22. 8 p.m.
With a career now spanning six decades, Robyn Hitchcock remains a one-of-a-kind artist: surrealist rock ’n’ roller, acoustic troubadour, poet, painter and writer.
Those Pretty Wrongs
March 8. 8 p.m.
Jody Stephens and Luther Russell
have more than 10 years together as a touring band.
Shawn Mullins Birthday Shows
March 14 and 15. 8 p.m.
Annual birthday celebration performances from local, indie singer-songwriter (and Grammy-nominated artist) Shawn Mullins.
Keith Harkin
March 30. 8 p.m.
Lead singer of Celtic Thunder for a decade, Harkin pays homage to his Irish roots, playing songs from the group as well as some of his solo work.
Crafting Success: Vox Pop Uli’s Impact on Local Business [Podcast]
Andrew and Daniel Hajduk, father and son of VOX-POP-ULI, discuss their family business specializing in custom printing, embroidery and laser engraving with host Rico Figliolini. The Hajduks share their journey through the evolution of printing technology and their approach to creating impactful branding for businesses.
Discover how this family-owned business adapts and thrives in a rapidly changing industry. Don’t miss their insights into the power of branding and the joy of bringing client visions to life. Join us to learn how a commitment to quality and community shapes the future of a business.
Hosted by Rico Figliolini. Scan the QR to watch
Hosted by Rico
People of all ages and fitness levels are discovering the new modality of Assisted Stretching and the buzz is growing louder by the day. But what makes it so special? Does getting stretched by a professional really deliver benefits you can’t achieve on your own? Can’t a good solo stretch session do the trick? Let’s dive into the science, the experience, and the unique advantages of assisted stretching to uncover why it’s becoming the go-to wellness practice for so many.
What Does it Mean to Get Stretched?
Stretching is the act of extending or lengthening muscles through specific movements or positions. Assisted stretching takes this a step further, involving a professional (Flexologist) who helps you achieve deeper, more effective stretches.
Unlike solo stretching, which requires active effort, assisted stretching is mostly passive. Your Flexologist moves your limbs and controls the stretches to target areas that can be
hard to reach on your own, delivering a more focused and impactful experience.
While solo stretching is essential for daily maintenance, combining it with assisted sessions can significantly enhance flexibility and mobility in less time.
Why Assisted Stretching Stands Out
Assisted stretching offers unique benefits beyond what you can achieve on your own. Here’s how:
1. Achieve deeper stretches.
2. Hold stretches longer.
3. Relax completely while a professional handles the work.
A key technique in Assisted Stretching is Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF). This involves a pushand-release method where muscles are contracted and then stretched further. PNF helps improve flexibility and range of motion, and with a Flexologist providing resistance and control, the
results are even more effective.
At StretchLab, every session incorporates PNF stretching. Our Flexologists work closely with each member to understand their needs, design personalized plans, and ensure every stretch is both safe and effective. Members can relax knowing they’re in expert hands, receiving the full benefits of this transformative experience.
By Patrizia Winsper
Exciting Day Trips from Peachtree
Adip in temperature may have you battling the wintertime blues, even in Peachtree Corners. Sometimes exploring surrounding areas can provide a much-needed change of scenery and pace.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff or just in need of a little adventure, Peachtree Corners offers the perfect launching point for remarkable day trips. From charming small towns to outdoor escapes, there’s no shortage of amazing places just a short drive away.
So, buckle up and get ready to explore the top 10 day trips to consider from Peachtree Corners!
1. Dahlonega
Strike gold in Dahlonega, Georgia! Visit the Consolidated Mine’s tunnels on a walking tour
By Patrizia Winsper
200 feet underground and travel back to a century ago when miners were busy at work extracting gold from quartz. Then, do some gold panning of your own.
When it comes to day trips, Dahlonega seems to be front of mind for many PTC residents, like Susan Scally. Elizabeth Forester Croft recommends a visit to wine country. “The vineyards in Dahlonega are fun. We like Wolf Mountain during the week. [It] gets super crowded on the weekends,” Croft advised.
Nina Maria Sparks seconds Dahlonega as a place to visit for its “great wineries.”
Johanna Martinez specifically mentioned the Tuscan-style Montaluce Winery & Restaurant which boasts both a restaurant and an Italian trattoria on the property.
There are several wineries to discover in and around this area, each with its own unique personality. Enjoy tastings while taking in sprawling mountain views.
Wineries stretching from Ball Ground (Feather’s Edge Vineyards) to Ellijay (Chateau Meichtry Winery) are interesting places to enjoy a nibble with a flight or two and spend a warm, sunny day listening to live music. Visit during the autumn explosion of colors for breathtaking views.
Warning: Lightweights like me can’t sample more than one tasting. Make sure to have a designated driver or use a car service when visiting the wineries so you drink responsibly.
Combining a hike with a subsequent visit to
Peachtree Corners: Adventure Awaits!
this small town was the recommendation of Thomas Christie. He suggested a trek to Amicalola Falls followed by a visit to Dahlonega.
Realtor Amy Fuchs enjoys the town square which transports you back in time with its great restaurants and local shops. She likes the area’s beautiful scenery, great hiking and charming homes. Fuchs noted the development of high end homes in the region, citing places like Achasta Golf Club and Community.
A quick jaunt away from the Dawsonville Outlets, Dahlonega is a nice getaway about an hour away from Peachtree Corners.
2. Chattanooga
If you meet Craig Rethwilm, inquire about the best place to get onion rings in the south. He swears it’s somewhere in Chattanooga, Tennessee, “a very nice place to visit.” Rethwilm is joined by Gerrie Wydeven (pictured above), Wiletha Williams, Missy Thurlow, Darlene Highsmith and Renee Videlefsky in voting for this daycation.
Located approximately two hours northwest
of Peachtree Corners, Chattanooga is a lively city along the Tennessee River surrounded by picturesque peaks. Outdoor adventures, cultural attractions and a rich history make Chattanooga a thrilling outing.
Lookout Mountain offers striking views and attractions like Rock City Gardens, where visitors stroll along captivating gardens and witness the famous “See Seven States” view. Ruby Falls, a stunning underground waterfall, is another must-visit with guided tours that take you deep into the caverns.
The Tennessee Aquarium located on the downtown riverfront is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. It features exhibits showcasing marine life from around the globe. The River and Ocean Journey buildings offer immersive experiences that are both educational and entertaining.
For a leisurely stroll, head to Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. It connects downtown Chattanooga with the North Shore. Take in jaw-dropping vistas of the river and city skyline. The North Shore offers eclectic shops, eateries and Coolidge Park.
3. Helen
Gene Russell proposed Helen, Georgia, “a little Bavarian-type town,” for the “fun experience” of immersing yourself in another culture. Prudence Franklin and Muzna Mirza also enjoy
Husband Daycare
Helen,
Helen, GA. (Photo courtesy of Prudence Franklin) Bottom, Chateau Meichtry Winery, Ellijay GA. (Photo by Patrizia Winsper)
a little escape to Helen’s flowering window boxes, hiking trails and waterfalls.
Full disclosure: Helen was a declining logging town in the late 1960s when local leaders plotted its revitalization by way of transforming it into a replica of a German village.
We don’t really worry about the how or why; we just embrace the fairytale vibes when surrounded by Disney-like alpine building facades, bowlfuls of mouthwatering spätzle and lederhosen and dirndl-donning Oktoberfest attendees just two hours northeast of Peachtree Corners.
Don’t miss the spectacular fall foliage as you explore the town center’s European flair, boutiques, bakeries and cozy restaurants. Stroll the cobblestone streets, sample German treats and browse an assorted mix of antiques and souvenirs.
During the summer, enjoy the refreshing water and peaceful surroundings from an inflatable tube while floating through the scenic town on the Chattahoochee River. Notes: You do need the stick; pay extra for the only aid you’ll have to get unstuck along the banks of the river and in shallow waters. Wear protective footwear as the river rocks are slippery and sharp.
Just outside of town, Anna Ruby Falls boasts a stunning double waterfall surrounded by lush forest. It’s an easy hike to the falls — a perfect way to experience the splendor of the Appalachian Mountains.
From far left, Wolf Winery (Photo by Patrizia Winsper) Helen, GA (Photo by Patrizia Winsper) Patrizia Winsper at Montaluce Winery North Georgia (Courtesy of Patrizia Winsper)
in
GA. (Photo by Patrizia Winsper)
4. Highlands
Continuing northeast from Helen, more mountain restaurants, arts, culture, festivals, shopping and outdoor activities await under three hours away from Peachtree Corners in Highlands, North Carolina. Reese Tompkins and Carol Jacobs , who adores the scenic
in a pie at a cozy cafe and maybe even spot a majestic bald eagle soaring above. Highlands is calling!
5. Callaway Gardens
A mini break to Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia is a favorite of Missy Thurlow, Teri Girardeau, Caroline Manning and Suzanne Holton , whose friend gives free organ concerts on Fridays and Saturdays in the garden chapel. Hi ghtail it about two hours southwest from PTC to Callaway Gardens in the springtime!
drive, both called out Highlands as an ideal expedition from PTC.
A jaunt to Highlands in the Nantahala National Forest is a game-changer! Forget traffic-choked interstates, this mountain escape is a breath of fresh air. Imagine swapping the hustle and bustle for the tranquility of cascading waterfalls, charming shops brimming with local crafts and hiking trails that whisper secrets of the Blue Ridge mountains. Here, you ditch the city along with your stilettos and Oxfords for sturdy boots and trade the boardroom for breathtaking views. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, indulge
This isn’t your grandma’s botanical garden (though she’d love it too). Think zip lines screaming through the pines, butterflies fluttering about like confetti and enough blooming beauty to make your Instagram explode. Pack a picnic, rent a bike or just wander through the wildflower meadows — it’s the perfect dose of nature-fueled fun, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Atlanta suburbs. Your soul (and your social media feed) will thank you.
6. Booth Western Art Museum
Mosey on over to the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, where the spirit of the Wild West is alive and kickin’ according to Dick Reese, NormaRee Lueders and Kevin Hinson. This museum, just a smidge over an
Above,
(Photo
Bottom left, Callaway Gardens.
(Photo by Patrizia Winsper)
Right, Mr. and Mrs. Vipul Singh in Helen, GA. (Photo courtesy of Vipul
hour’s drive from PTC, showcases cowboys, Native American heritage and landscapes that’ll make you feel like you’re ridin’ on the open range. It’s a boot-scootin’ good time for the whole family.
But Cartersville isn’t a one-horse town! After you’ve explored the Booth, dawdle on over to Tellus Science Museum where you can dig up dinosaur bones and explore the wonders of science. A treasure trove of unique finds and vintage goodies await you at Dillard’s Antiques and Art.
Discover the fascinating history of Native Americans at the Etowah Indian Mounds. Saddle up and head downtown to the Cartersville Historic District for a stroll through pleasing streets where art, history and adventure await.
7. Greenville
Bill Harrier and Becky Spurr Beam put a pin on the map on downtown Greenville, South Carolina, approximately 2.5 hours northeast of PTC. Harrier advises going in the morning and returning in the late afternoon as the Atlanta commuters are going the opposite direction.
Greenville is renowned for its revitalized city center, scenic parks and colorful arts scene. Urban amenities and natural beauty make for an ideal day tour. Harrier appreciates the restaurants and rambling through the downtown area, the zoo, the museum and Swamp Rabbit Trail, a draw for outdoorsy people.
The 22-mile multi-use trail follows the Reedy River, connecting several parks and attractions, providing a scenic route to explore
Left, The Neely Farm Garden Club visiting Callaway Gardens. (Photo by Patrizia Winsper)
Quaint shops in Madison, GA.
by Patrizia Winsper)
Sing)
the city’s natural beauty whether biking, walking or jogging.
Falls Park on the Reedy, a stunning urban park, features the Reedy River Falls, lush gardens and the iconic Liberty Bridge — a pedestrian suspension bridge that offers captivating views of the falls. The park is a perfect spot for a picnic or photography session.
Downtown Greenville bustles with stores, restaurants, art galleries and theaters. Stroll along Main Street to discover local boutiques. Enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries and catch a show at the Peace Center or the Warehouse Theater.
will lead you to the enchanting town of Madison, Georgia. Known for its antebellum architecture, beautiful gardens and small town hospitality, Madison is an idyllic destination for sightseeing tours.
Amy Fuchs and Becky Spurr Beam consider Madison to be a classic Southern town. Fuchs referenced events being held in the boutique and B&B-lined square. “The homes are amazing,” she added, referring to the mix of old world charm with modern conveniences. Many of them are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
8. Cherokee
Try your luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in North Carolina. Giannina Della Sera and Shenequa Williams bet on Cherokee for a memorable day trip. Williams recently planned a trip to Knoxville through the mountains and the Cherokee reservation.
This small town in the Smoky Mountains is a great place to escape city life and enjoy some peace and quiet whether you golf, go shopping for souvenirs, clothing or art, chase waterfalls, fish, swim, go camping or whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River. You can also visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which tells the story of the Cherokee people. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have a good time in Cherokee.
9. Madison
A 50-minute drive southeast
History enthusiasts delight in a visit to the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center which hosts exhibits, performances and educational events. Heritage Hall, one of the oldest buildings in town, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in the region. Catch the self-guided spring tour of homes May 16-17, 2025, to get a close-up view of some of the city’s finest residences.
10. Tallulah Gorge
Nature lovers, prepare to be awestruck by the sheer power and beauty of Tallulah Gorge State Park, about 90 minutes northeast of Peachtree Corners. Avid photographers like Vipul Singh love capturing the grand views here.
Marvel at the cascades and the dramatic rock formations of a 1,000 foot deep, narrow canyon carved by the Tallulah River. Hike along the easier rim trails for breathtaking vistas or descend into the gorge for a truly unforgettable experience.
For the daring, the swaying suspension bridge provides a thrill. Take in six beautiful waterfalls. The best time to visit is after rainfall when the falls are at their most impressive.
Hit the road, Jack, then come back to PTC!
From outdoor adventure to cultural experiences and historical exploration, Peachtree Corners is an ideally situated home base for some truly exhilarating discoveries. Whether you’re looking to
relax with a glass of wine, hike through lush forests or dive into Georgia’s rich history, these destinations within a two to threehour drive provide a wealth of inspiring experiences. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can find
hidden gems, experience unique cultures and create lasting memories within a short drive from home. Check official websites for up-to-date information, then hit the road and go explore the sweet Peach State!
Happy travels! •
Other Day Trip Extravaganzas:
Recommended by Your Neighbors Location
Gerrie Wydeven – PTC Columbus
Caroline Manning –Cumming
Sandra K. Hutto – PTC
• Rome
• Cartersville
• Milledgeville
• Macon
• Lake Oconee Ritz Carlton
• “Athens Great restaurants, lovely town, lots of antebellum homes and history!”
“Lakeview at Fontana Soaking Cabana Resort
An amazing place!”
Amy Baggett – Brookhaven High Hampton Resort in Cashiers, NC
Becky Spurr Beam – PTC
“The Haven Zoo in Lavonia, GA
An animal rescue facility founded by a former Neely Farmer.”
Vipul Singh – PTC Helton Creek Falls
“Susan Scally – PTC
Mary Ann Downing – PTC”
Johanna Martinez - Buford
“Little White House in Warm Springs, GA
The FDR historic site and museum.”
• Maggie Valley, NC
• Cataloochee Ranch Resort in Maggie Valley, NC
Faith Harding – PTC “Lake Martin, AL
Aric Bacon – Conyers
Mistletoe Bough B&B”
• Birmingham, AL
• “Gadsden, AL, It has a great winery. There are some wonderful restaurants and even a zoo.”
Dick Reese – PTC Savoy Automobile Museum in Cartersville, GA
Jeanine Best – PTC Waynesville, NC
Main Street is super cute with breweries and shops. 15 minutes from Cataloochee ski area and Maggie Valley which also has a snow tubing area. The cabin has a hot tub, mountain views, arcade, ping pong, foosball, firepit and sleeps up to 12. Airbnb.com/l/KxVHtWVv
Nina Maria Sparks – PTC
Patrizia Winsper – PTC
“White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, GA
A 158-year-old family farm. They conduct tours and explain regenerative farming.”
• Serenbe in Chattahoochee Hills, GA
• Georgia Museum of Art, Athens
• State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Athens
• Augusta, GA
• Stone Mountain Park
• Chateau Elan Winery & Resort
• Lake Lanier
• Ellijay, GA
Suzanne Holton – PTC The Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, GA
Sue Robbins – PTC Senoia, GA
Laura Rickman – PTC
• High Falls State Park in Jackson, GA
• Indian Springs State Park
• Lake Juliette
• Jarrell Plantation in Juliette, GA
Stay Local, Play Big: Top Picks for Summer Camps Close to Home
For many, summer camp brings to mind happy feelings of childhood — sunny days spent outside running, playing, hanging out with friends. For others, it’s a way to connect to a favorite sport or hobby in a deeper way. And for the rest, camp may represent an opportunity to try something new and avoid the boredom of long weeks without structure or plans.
Whatever your reasons, choosing the right summer camp can be the difference between a good summer break and an awesome summer break.
With fun to be had, new friends to make and full days of connection and activity before you, we’ve pulled together a list of some of the best summer camps in the area to help your family find a favorite way to stay local and play big in
2025.
Keep in mind that summer camps fill up quickly. Most open registration in January or February. So, sign up as soon as you can to hold your child’s place.
Community Camps
Camp Autrey Mill
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, Johns Creek
May 27– August 1
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$350 per week for members; $380 for non-members
Camp Autrey Mill provides one-of-a-kind experiences focused on nature, science, history and wildlife. They offer themed weeks from May through August for kids ages 5-11. And each session includes arts & crafts, games, outdoor activities and exploration of the 46-acre nature preserve. Early care and after care hours are available for an additional fee. Registration opened January 15 for members and February 1 for non-members.
For more info: autreymill.org/programs/summer-camp
By Shawne Taylor
MJCCA Summer Day Camps
The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, Dunwoody
May 27–August 1
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
$465 per week for members; $540 for non-members
MJCCA offers a wide variety of fun, inclusive summer camp options for kids and teens from pre-K to 9th grade. Weeklong theater and drama camps; gymnastics, volleyball, pickleball and other sports camps; themed camps for younger kids; and teen camps focused on improv, exploring Atlanta, cooking and more are just some of the exciting sessions you can choose from. Registration is open now.
For more info:
mjccadaycamps.org/camps-programs
YMCA Day Camps
Robert D. Fowler YMCA (and other locations)
May 27–August 1
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
$208 per week for members; $258 for non-members
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta provides weeklong summer camp sessions at all 18 of their locations. Designed to encourage kids to con-
MJCCA Summer Day Camps Wesleyan School
nect, engage and be active, each local Y offers full- and half-day options, pre-school camps and extended care hours. Traditional camps, sports camps and specialty camps are available for kids ages 6-12 who are interested in arts, athletics, esports, drama and more. Registration opened February 3.
For more info: ymcaatlanta.org/camp/day-camp Camp Kingfisher
ative play for kids ages 5-12. Each day provides the opportunity for games, arts & crafts, music, movement and hand-on activities. A STEAM lab, robotics, water park, foreign language study and karate are also offered. Full-and part-time care is available.
For more info: cremedelacreme.com/locations/ peachtree-corners-ga/summer-camp-in-norcross-ga
Chattahoochee Nature Center, Roswell
May 27–July 31
9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$256+ per session for members; $316+ for non-members
The Chattahoochee Nature Center offers a halfday Owlet camp for four year olds and full-day programs for kids ages 5-12, with one-week or two-week sessions. Sorted by age, each camp includes activities such as archery, arts & crafts, canoeing and swimming. There are also specialty camps planned for kids interested in science, gardening and developing survival skills. Partial camp scholarships are available based on financial need. Registration opened January 20.
For more info: chattnaturecenter.org/education/ camp/summer-camp
School Camps
Summer Camp at Crème de la Crème
Crème de la Crème, Peachtree Corners
May–August
6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Crème de la Crème’s summer program features weekly themes, recreational adventures and cre -
Wesleyan Summer Camps
Wesleyan School, Peachtree Corners
June 2–July 18
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (half-day camps will be morning or afternoon only)
Wesleyan School’s summer offerings include a range of academic, athletic, art, enrichment and life skills camps for ages 3-14. From basketball, cheerleading, lacrosse and wrestling to creative crafts, photography, game design, theater, a babysitting boot camp and so much more, there’s something for just about every interest. Registration opened January 22. For more info: wesleyanschool. org/camps-clinics/2025-summer-camp-offerings
GAC Summer Specialty Camps
Greater Atlanta Christian School, Norcross
June–July
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (for most camps); after-care available
Though GAC’s Grow Day Camp will only be open to current GAC families this year, the school’s Specialty Camps remain open to the public. With more than 30 summer programs in athletics, arts and academics to choose from, the half-day, specialized camps offer a balance of play and learning, with time to socialize and make friends. Each camp is unique, with special offerings for kids from pre-K to 12th grade. Baseball, tennis, dance, art, LEGO® building, robotics and chess are a few of the sessions you can choose from. After-care hours are also available. Registration opens March 3.
For more info: gac.org/summercamp
Art, Music and STEM-focused Camps
Discover Science Camps
Discover Science Center, Roswell
May 27–August 1
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
$300–$360 per week (sibling discount available)
Discover Science Center has been introduc-
ing kids to science for over a decade with day camps, homeschool classes, workshops and more. Their summer camp programs incorporate hands-on science learning with fun themes and creative projects that make each week different and interesting for kids ages 6-11. Rocks, dinosaurs, 3D printing, space, mad science and tech are just a few of the session options to choose from. Registration is open now.
For more info: discoversciencecenter.com/dayand-summer-camps
Club SciKidz
Notre Dame Academy, Duluth/Johns Creek (and other locations)
June–July
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
$325 (half-day); $375 (full day)
With locations throughout metro Atlanta, Club SciKidz offers a wide range of camp options for kids of different ages. At the Duluth/Johns Creek location, younger campers can enjoy week-long “Little Engineer,” “Little Space Explorer” or “Jurassic” sessions; kids in grades 1-3 can have fun with “Jr. Coder,” “Makebot” and “Minecraft” camps; and older kids in grades 4-7 can dive into “Emergency Vet,” “Zombie Special Effects,” “Forensic Detectives” and other unique camp sessions. Registration is open now.
For more info: atlanta.clubscikidz.com/programs
Spruill Summer Art Camp
Spruill Center for the Arts, Dunwoody
May 27–August 8
9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$320–$420 per session
The Spruill Center offers 11 weeks of summer art camps (for ages 5-10) and studio arts (for rising 6th-9th graders). In each immersive session, campers will explore the world of art and design, working with one dedicated instructor in the morning and a second instructor in the afternoon. Younger kids can sign up for things like “Art Around the World,” “Myths & Legends” and “Space Odyssey,” while pre-teens and teens enjoy specialized sessions in animation, storyboarding, painting, sewing, jewelry making and more. Registration is open now.
For more info: spruillarts.org/camps
School of Rock Music Camps
School of Rock, Johns Creek (and other locations)
June 2–July 25
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$400–$500 per camp
Budding musicians will enjoy rocking out at the summer camp sessions offered at School of Rock. Themes range from 80s rock, songwriting, recording & production and pop legends to a beginner’s “Rock Camp 101” and a fun, “4-day Green Day Camp.” For ages 8 to 17. Registration is open now.
For more info: schoolofrock.com/locations/johnscreek/music-camps
Greater Atlanta Christian
Sports Camps
adidas Summer Tennis Camp
Georgia Gwinnett College, Lawrenceville
July 7–July 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $469 per person
The adidas Tennis Camp at Georgia Gwinnett College is open to kids and teens ages 8-18, regardless of skill level. Each camper’s ability will be assessed on the first day to ensure they are grouped with others of similar age and skill level. The week-long camp will feature drills, games, match-play, individualized training and lots of fun. Daily lunch is included, and each camper will receive an adidas Tennis Camp t-shirt during the week. Registration is open now.
For more info: tenniscamper.com/camps/georgia/georgia-gwinnett-college
Nike Basketball Camp
EHB Basketball Club, Chamblee
May 27–July 31
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (half-day camps will be morning or afternoon only)
$225 (half-day); $355 (full day)
The Nike Summer Basketball Camp at EHB Chamblee is open to players of all skill levels, ages 6-17. Sessions will be offered weekly from the end of May through the end of July, with different focuses to choose from. Campers may opt for full-day, “Complete Skills” or “Select” camps or half-day “Intro to Hoops,” “Shooting” or “3-On-3.” Boys, girls and co-ed options are available. Lunch is not provided, but a concession stand will be open for food purchases or campers may bring lunch and snacks from
home. Registration is open now.
For more info: ussportscamps.com/basketball/ nike/nike-basketball-camp-ehb-basketball-academy-chamblee
Beyond the Neighborhood
These camps are a little farther away but are definitely worth taking a look at if you don’t mind the drive (or an international flight).
AIS Summer Camps
Atlanta International School, Buckhead and Sandy Springs
June 2–July 25
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (early drop-off at 8 a.m.)
$360–$450 per week
In addition to their traditional language camps, Atlanta International School also offers a wide variety of themed day-camps for kids and teens at their Buckhead and Sandy Springs campuses. From art, investing, chess, cosplay and Dungeons & Dragons for the older kids to things like “Fun in the Sun,” hands-on cooking and “Moana Camp” for the younger set, each weekly session is interesting and unique. Registration is open now.
For more info: aischool.org/community/summer-camps-2025
GolfHouse Summer Camps
GolfHouse Academy, Atlanta
June 2–August 1
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$500 per week; $125 per day
GolfHouse Academy on Zonolite Road in Atlanta offers week-long summer camps for kids ages 5-16, whether they are beginners or more experienced players. Camp sessions feature top-notch golf instruction, golf-themed games and challenges and opportunities to develop new skills and make friends. There will also be time for nature walks in nearby Zonolite park and other fun activities. Families can sign up for a full camp week or register and pay per day. Campers will be grouped by age rather than skill level. Registration is open now.
For more info:
golfhouseacademy.com/kids-camps
Summer Art Camp
High Museum of Art, Atlanta
June 2–August 1
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (drop off starts at 8:30 a.m.) $350 for members; $450 for non-members
At the High Museum’s Summer Art Camp, young artists will explore the museum’s galleries, learn about the collections and special exhibits and develop their own skills in drawing, painting and design. Campers are sorted by age — rising kindergartners through 8th grade — with each weekly session offering a fun theme or specialty focus led by experienced instructors. Registration is open now.
For more info: high.org/camp
Summer Safari Camp
Zoo Atlanta, Grant Park
May 27–August 1
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (drop off starts at 8:30 a.m.)
Zoo Atlanta’s popular Summer Safari Camp offers young explorers an opportunity to learn more about wildlife and conservation through STEAM-based projects, hands-on activities, animal encounters and more. Open to kids and teens ages 5-14, each weekly session features a different expedition theme, with campers grouped according to age. Registrations opened January 27.
For more info: zooatlanta.org/program/summer-camp
Tennis Camp in London
Premier Tennis Club
July 6–July 19
$2,495–$4,495 (flights not included)
This residential, summer tennis camp from Premier Tennis Club, in partnership with UKbased Ace Tennis Camps, offers a one-week and two-week option for campers. Aimed at junior players of all levels, the experience features a 1:4 staff-to-camper ratio, food and accommodations, expert coaching from an international team, a day-tour of London’s historic attractions, Wimbledon tickets and the opportunity to play on the grass courts at a prestigious club. Registration is now open.
For more info: premiertennisatlanta.com/summer-camps
Foodie Favorites: Southern Charm and Global Tastes in Peachtree Corners
Metro Atlanta’s food scene is a tapestry of flavors, cultures and culinary creativity. Long known for its traditional Southern fare, recent years have also seen an increase in the number of restaurants — both independent and franchise — showcasing international, fusion or new South cuisines opening throughout the city.
While the busy food halls and
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Words By Shawne Taylor
trendy eateries in Midtown and Buckhead may get a lot of press, the northern suburbs, including Peachtree Corners, Norcross and Duluth, are experiencing a culinary Renaissance of their own.
Dozens of new and exciting restaurants have opened in Peachtree Corners over the last few years, with more planned for 2025.
Reflecting the eclectic tastes of a growing community, places like Stäge, H&W Steakhouse, Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen and Jinbei West have joined long-standing favorites such as
J. Alexander’s and Taqueria del Mar in finding a following.
The upcoming scheduled openings of Golestan, Sei Ryu and the multi-restaurant lineup at The Forum’s new Politan Row has only added to the buzz around dining in Peachtree Corners.
With so many incredible places to choose from, figuring out where to enjoy your next lunch or dinner out can be a challenge. So, we turned to a few experts for help. And who knows the local food scene better than the influencers who get out, taste and
Dahlia’s Restaurant & Porch
@atlbestbites
One of Peachtree Corners newest restaurants, Dahlia’s Restaurant & Porch serves Southern American fare in the heart of the city. The setting is casual, and they often have live music in the evenings, which is a nice touch. They also have a beautiful patio, so be sure to dine outside when you can to truly enjoy the facilities.
On my most recent visit, I ordered the Bourbon Glazed Peach Pork Belly, Grilled Steak, Red Chile Glazed Shrimp and Bourbon Pork Tenderloin. The shrimp was crispy and flavorful, and you can’t go wrong with steak!
Dahlia’s Restaurant and Porch at Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 30092 dahliasrestaurant.com
H&W Steakhouse
@atlfoodiesofficial
share their thoughts on the latest and greatest spots in the city?
The following foodies answered the call to share some of their picks for must-try restaurants in Peachtree Corners and Norcross, with choices that offer something for just about every taste.
From Southern favorites to sushi, seafood, steak and more, these are a few of the local restaurants to check out — or revisit — in 2025.
One of the BEST meals we had in 2023 and one of the best new restaurants we’ve dined at overall is hands down H&W Steakhouse in Peachtree Corners.
This stunning, fine-dining steakhouse is located 30 minutes outside of Atlanta and is one of the most beautiful restaurants we dined at [last] year.
Serving everything from high-end steaks to luxury delicacies like caviar and A5 Japanese Wagyu, with over-the-top, tableside presentations, you will be absolutely blown away by your meal there.
You also have to end the meal with their famous Turtle Gelato Pie and Carajillo (a Spanish coffee cocktail made with espresso and liquor)! Both were absolutely phenomenal and a great way to end an amazing dinner.
H&W Steakhouse 5242 Peachtree Parkway, 30092 hwsteakhouse.com
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Lena Ahn
Adam & Cole
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Stäge Kitchen & Bar @lemaitravel
This was our third visit to Stäge Kitchen & Bar, and once again, it did not disappoint. The quality of the sushi here remains absolutely incredible. Every roll is fresh, flavorful and beautifully presented, showcasing the attention to detail that sets this place apart.
The consistency of the flavors and the impeccable service make it a standout spot. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or just starting to explore Japanese cuisine, Stäge delivers an experience that keeps you coming back. Highly recommend this gem for anyone seeking high-quality sushi in a welcoming atmosphere!
The Spider-man, Phoenix, Hotel California, Smoking Gun, Tsunami and Goku rolls were melt-in-your-mouth good! (My personal favorites were the Hotel California and the Phoenix.)
We loved their calamari and grilled Spanish octopus. Both were very flavorful and fresh. The Lychee Martini and Whiskey Sour were the best drinks we’ve had in a while — strong but perfectly not-too-sweet that will warm you up.
And you need to get the brownie as the complimentary dessert; It’s our favorite!
Stäge Kitchen & Bar 5260 Peachtree Parkway, 30092 stagepeachtreecorners.com
Pêche Modern Coastal @peachy_palate
Good cheese needs good companions! Our long overdue Girls’ Night Out led us to Pêche Modern Coastal where we had a cheesy good time. We started our night with a cheese board and croissants followed by the Beet Cannelloni and Burrata and Peach salad from their small plates menu.
For our entree, we had the Truffle Pasta, which was delicious.
I loved the patio at Pêche. We hung out [there] even after they closed. I can’t wait for spring and summer to come so I can enjoy it again.
Pêche Modern Coastal at The Forum 5155 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 320, 30092 pecheforum.com
Super Banh Mi Pho @_helenfoodie
I finally got to try Super Banh Mi Pho, and I’m definitely coming back!
This Vietnamese restaurant has been on my list to try, and everything we got was so good! Some of my favorites are their banh mi and pho, which are made with fresh ingredients. The broth was so good, and adding in all the fresh ingredients made it taste even better!
Editor’s note: Serving traditional Vietnamese dishes, the family-run Super Banh Mi Pho has developed a following among local foodies not just for its excellent food, but for its buzzworthy Dragon Ball Z décor, lively atmosphere and fun events.
Super Banh Mi Pho 1560 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd., Norcross, 30093 superbanhmipho.com
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Mai Le
Helen Dong
Saadia Raja
WESLEYAN MARKET
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 10 A.M. – 3 P.M.
Politan Row at The Forum in Pictures
Politan Row is officially OPEN! Downtown Peachtree Corners’ newest hotspot has arrived & they’re serving up a wide variety of delicious food, drinks & incredible vibes. Make sure to stop by to get a taste! Here are some images from a sneak peek before it opened. Check their website for more information: theforumpeachtree.com/politanrow/ •
Photos by George Hunter / Rannult Media (@ rannulf.media)
Chuck
Connecting the City: PTC Launches New Community Calendar
The City of Peachtree Corners recently launched a new, innovative community calendar, designed to foster connectivity, inclusivity and engagement among residents, businesses and community organizations.
This cutting-edge tool offers a personalized approach to community involvement by allowing users to register and receive tailored notifications about events that matter most to them.
Submitting events
Another function of the new calendar is that businesses, nonprofits and members of the community can add their own public events. Is your company planning an event that’s open to the public? Your favorite entertainment spot hosting an open mic night? Your animal shelter having a pet adoption? Submit it to the calendar.
“We are thrilled to introduce a platform that not only informs our residents about upcoming events but also encourages them to participate more actively in community life,” said Louis Svehla, director of communications and public affairs. “The community calendar reflects our commitment to ensuring that Peachtree Corners remains a vibrant and welcoming place for everyone.”
Key features
1. Personalized event notifications: Registered users can select their areas of interest — from entertainment events to city council and commission meetings — and receive timely notifications tailored to their preferences.
2. User-submitted events: Businesses, residents, non-profits and community leaders are invited to contribute to the calendar by submitting their own events. This feature ensures a diverse and comprehensive listing of events around the city.
3. Event registration: Each listed event will offer the opportunity for users to register for the event. This registration allows the posting party to see who will be attending.
4. Event search functionality: Searching for an event? The calendar allows you to filter by event type as well as audience type.
How to register
notifications and submitting events right away.
Signing up is simple. Visit community. peachtreecornersga.gov/peachtreecornersga to create an account and customize your event preferences. Once registered, users can begin receiving
“Our goal is to make Peachtree Corners a more connected community where everyone has access to events that inspire, educate and entertain,” said City Manager Brian Johnson. “We encourage all residents and community members to sign up and be part of this exciting new initiative.” •
Peachtree Corners Festival: A Tradition of Fun and Philanthropy
Over the past 13 years, the Peachtree Corners Festival has become a favorite fall tradition for local residents and city visitors alike. Held each September, the family-friendly celebration brings the community together for a full weekend of fun that includes vendor booths, arts & crafts, food, live music, a car show and more.
Though the festival itself takes place once a year, the volunteer organization behind it works yearround not only to plan for the big event but to give back to the Peachtree Corners community in other ways as well.
The Peachtree Corners Festival mission
According to the festival website, the organization is “dedicated to bringing a safe, wholesome and family-friendly festival to the City of Peachtree Corners,” with the goal of fostering “community pride and civic involvement in our diverse city. … To the extent that the festival experiences positive cash flow, the funds will be dedicated to supporting two areas: Education and Beautification.”
“We generally give anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 total each year to the public schools in our area and to local nonprofits like Bridges Peachtree Corners for school and teacher supplies,” said Dave Huffman, president of the Peachtree Corners Festival.
Community donations
In 2024, the organization donated funds to several local schools, including $500 each to Peachtree Elementary, Simpson Elementary and Pinckneyville Middle School and made a $1,000 donation to Norcross High School.
Other recent donations have included:
• $20,000 for landscape plantings in the Hwy. 141 medians near Chick-fil-A and Walgreens
• $20,000 donated to the city for Christmas light displays at the Town Green
• $15,000 for the City Hall flag plaza
In addition, for the last few years, they have also awarded a drama scholarship in memory of Debbie
For more about the Peachtree Corners Festival, visit peachtreecornersfestival.com. •
Mason, Peachtree Corners’ former first lady. Last year’s winner was Norcross High School senior, Pavin Jones. The next drama scholarship winner will be announced in spring 2025.
Peachtree Elementary
Simpson Elementary
Norcross High School Foundation of Excellence
Pinckneyville Middle School
Kirkland Carden: My Job Is to Improve Quality of Life in Gwinnett
With the recent inauguration of the nation’s 47th president, many people feel that is the office citizens should pay the most attention to. Even though that office holder is perhaps the most powerful individual in the world, he is focused on big picture issues that affect millions. If you want someone to weigh in on property taxes, potholes in the streets or vandalism at the local parks, officials right here in Gwinnett County are the ones to turn to.
Peachtree Corners Magazine recently talked with Gwinnett County District 1 Commissioner Kirkland Carden about what the county can, and will, do for residents and how to make your concerns known.
Carden, a 20-year resident of Gwinnett County, graduated from Duluth High School in 2007, went to Georgia State University and still lives in Duluth.
“In fact, I live maybe a little more than two miles down the road from the house I grew up in,” he shared. “So, I’m still around. I’m raising my 3-year-old son in a community that I grew up in and that I have the opportunity to serve on the board of commissioners.”
Serving the community
Carden served on the Duluth City Council for a little more than two years and served on a number of different boards and authorities prior to that. In 2020, he was elected to the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners and in November 2024 was re-elected to another four-year term.
“I’m thankful to have the opportunity again to serve on the county commission in a community that I’ve lived in for the last two decades,” he said. “I’ve seen it evolve before my eyes.”
By Arlinda Smith Broady
Carden mentioned a few changes he helped bring about. One project he is most proud of is the addition of warming shelters in the county.
“If you remember in 2019, we had unusually cold weather that winter. I noticed that a number of localities, cities and counties were providing warming shelters for the homeless and housing-insecure populations in their community, but Gwinnett County was not offering that service at that time,” he said. “That was something I worked to lobby the county commission to see if they would offer warming shelters for folks who need it. Let’s be real, Gwinnett County has one of the largest homeless populations in the state of Georgia.”
Homelessness and substandard housing
Despite the perception that many parts of the county, especially in his district, have a higher standard of living, Carden is willing to acknowledge and help the less fortunate.
“In the Department of Community Affairs’ annual list of communities with the largest homeless population, Gwinnett County ranks somewhere in the top five or top three in the state for any given year,” he said. “People have perceptions or stereotypes about where the homeless populations actually are in the state. Then you show them facts and numbers to show it’s actually closer than you think. The issue’s not down 85 or 75 or down by the airport or in rural Georgia.”
Through Carden’s efforts, the county now supports five warming locations for those seeking shelter in below freezing temperatures.
Another change he helped bring about is cracking down on substandard housing.
“In July of 2023, a new ordinance focusing on cracking down on slumlords came about,” he said. “It gives our code enforcement and county staff the legal authority to do internal inspections in multi-family or rental communities.”
Of course, the county has no problem with developers who build quality, multi-family products, but Carden pointed out that there are some who use the property as a cash cow and slap a band-aid and a coat of paint on it, ignoring major structural and functional issues.
Kirkland Carden
The entire board voted to pass the law that improves the quality of life.
Planning for growth
At such a granular level, Carden pointed out that issues aren’t as divided by political party lines.
He pointed to the redevelopment of the old Gwinnett Place Mall as a decision that everyone agreed upon.
“When I was campaigning in 2019, I was preaching that the county needs to be more active in the redevelopment of the mall,” he said. “We shouldn’t just let it sit there and deteriorate.”
Carden and his fellow commissioners launched a number of different planning documents, bought different parts of the mall and laid the underground infrastructure to improve capacity for a future redevelopment.
“We have a global village concept that people can review online. We’re actually going to release the RFP (request for proposals) for private sector developers to begin to come with their visions for redevelopment of the mall,” he said.
“Gwinnett Place Mall was this activity center for many years. The goal is to redevelop the area to make it something more attractive, make it something that’s a value add for our community, something that will contribute to the county’s tax digest and something that will stand the test of time.”
An increase in housing demand
Those plans could be put to the test sooner than many may realize. As of July 2024, Gwinnett County officially has a population of more than one million people, Carden said.
“The county leadership over the years focused on the infrastructure like the water [and] roads, and then they focused on the job growth and retention,” he said. “They figured that housing would work itself out, so they had a hands-off approach to let the private sector build the homes.”
But now, with Gwinnett being one of, if not the fastest growing county in the state, housing has become a big problem.
“Market demand is three times greater than what we’re actually producing, which leads to the housing affordability problem because there are so few homes,” he said. “That means new families, new individuals coming to Gwinnett, get into bidding wars over the existing inventory, and they wildly inflate the cost of that home.”
To help alleviate that issue, the commission came up with a plan.
“In 2023, we established an affordable housing trust fund, and we took $18 million of ARPA money — leftover
federal assistance from COVID — and put it in a separate account,” he said. “We worked with our planning staff to build parameters. The private sector can submit applications and, depending on how well the project scores and what needs they’re trying to address, the county will give them a subsidy to help offset the cost of development or purchasing land.”
Interaction with residents
One thing that Carden plans to improve upon during this term is interacting with constituents.
“If anyone has questions about the county, I’ll be happy to sit down with my staff and work to answer their questions or address their situations,” he said.
But he’d like to do even better. He’ll be planning periodic town hall meetings to allow residents to gather and discuss what they’d like to see in their community.
“Thankfully, I have a talent to hear people out, hear what they’ve got to say and hopefully nip some problems in the bud,” he said.
Crime rates within the county
Carden has sat in on some of the public forums looking at crime and safety and usage at Jones Bridge Park.
“When I took office in 2020, there was the COVID crime wave — an increase in property crime, violent crime such as homicide, murder, rape,” he said. “This was a situation not indicative of just Gwinnett. This was something we were seeing across the country.”
He reported that by the end of 2024, there was a 16% reduction in crime across the entire county.
“And as for District One specifically, [during COVID] we saw an increase in car break-ins and property crimes, but as a result of proactive police work, they’re up for an award this year,” he said.
Additionally, with the help of many jurisdictions inside and outside of the county, metro Atlanta police collaborated to bust up a crime ring that had been plaguing the area. Carden said that with that kind of team work and the use of technology, criminals will continue to be taken down in this area.
“By the numbers, you can see that this group of commissioners is taking public safety seriously, and we’re making steps in the right direction.” •
District 1 Commissioner
Kirkland Carden
770-822-7001
Kirkland.Carden@gwinnettcounty.com
Simpsonwood Park Update
Citizen Steering Committee continues redesign plans with improvements & challenges
The second meeting of the Citizen Steering Committee for the Simpsonwood Park Master Plan took place on January 15 at Pinckneyville Community Center and focused on a presentation and discussion of three conceptual plans.
• Concept 1 centered on a central hub
• Concept 2 centered on an eastern hub
• Concept 3 centered on a river hub
According to Carlos Perez, president and founder of Perez Planning + Design, LLC (PP+D), a research-based firm contracted to facilitate the park redesign, key features for each include vehicular circulation, parking areas, multi-use paths and program areas like dog parks and nature exploration zones.
Perez added that the plans aim to balance natural resource protection with recreational needs, emphasizing ecological management and sustainable trail systems.
The committee emphasized the importance of community input, particularly on the balance
By Arlinda Smith Broady
between parking spaces and natural areas, as well as the need for clear communication with county leadership.
Concept 1
• 100 paved spaces
• 40 overflow parking spaces
• 1.9 miles of paved trails
• 5.7 miles of hiking trails
• 7.3 acres of impervious area
“The idea is that we have this existing road that would be improved, but done in a way that preserves that feel of a natural park,” said Perez.
He added that all of the models will have an access road to the Wood Creek pump station. The Department of Watershed Resources must be able to get vehicles and equipment in for maintenance and repairs. It wouldn’t change much from the existing road. However, in certain areas, the road will need to cross streams and creeks.
“We would do that with a wood bridge consistent with the character of the site,” said Perez.
He added that much of the parking will be near an area being called the Great Lawn. There will be additional parking near the chapel, with an overflow parking area of 20 to 30 spaces for events that may take place in the park.
“It will be done in a way that’s paved but integrated as cleanly as we can within that environment,” said Perez. “The overflow parking would be a green space area that, when parking is not there, then it just looks like an open field with trees around the edges.”
The primary multi-use paths are consistent with what’s currently in use at other parks throughout the county.
“The idea is to look at a potential two loops, one
that’s about a mile and one that’s a little longer — 1.5 miles — going around a portion of the site and then connecting back to Jones Bridge,” he said. “Then there is the accessible access path from the parking areas and from the hubs with sidewalk connections that connect the paved, multi-purpose trails to the different hubs that are located in this area.”
Perez added that there will be boardwalks to cross over wetlands, creeks or streams as needed. There would also be some small pavilions — a larger one in the central part, near the chapel and two smaller pavilions.
This concept has the potential for a light camping area. The Great Lawn could serve as an outdoor classroom. There’s also a nature exploration area and space that could be a dog park. Perez also mentioned two overlooks along the river with a restroom nearby. This plan calls for a restroom near the central area and another near the chapel as well.
“There’s also a secondary hiking loop and connector trails that happen throughout the park,” said Perez. “These would be very natural in appearance, not improved.”
Concept 2
• 90 paved parking spaces
• 65 overflow parking spaces
• 1.67 miles of paved trails
• 6.6 miles of hiking trails
• 7.1 acres of impervious area
“Concept number two looks at moving the hub closer to the road,” said Perez. “We’re calling it the Great Lawn hub.”
He added that, similar to the first plan, this one has an access road to the pump station and also access to the cell tower. There will be parking areas near the Great Lawn, a campground area and near the chapel.
Left and above, Members of the Citizen Steering Committee look over proposed plans for Simpsonwood Park (Photos by Arlinda Broady)
“We have a slightly different orientation of the multi-purpose trail, including one that circles on the edges of the Great Lawn and another one that circles around the middle area, one a little closer to the overlook and then a connection to the road.”
Another difference is an area with walkways near the chapel, an interpretive, accessible path area and more accessible boardwalk.
“In terms of the structures, we have some of the existing chapel, a large pavilion and two small pavilions near the chapel,” he said. “There will also be a restroom or a maintenance building in that location.”
This model, too, includes an area for a dog park, a nature exploration area, a campground in the Great Lawn area and a meadow. There will be primary hiking and secondary hiking loops that circulate throughout the site and connect to walking paths.
Concept 3
• 130 paved parking spaces
• 40 overflow parking spaces
• 1.75 miles of paved path
• 6.5 miles of hiking trails
• 7.4 acres of impervious area
“We’re calling concept number three the river hub,” said Perez. “This concept shows that main entrance road going a little farther into the site near the river. And this was in response to those river experiences and trying to get accessible locations closer to the river, to get people to the river.”
The river hub would include paved parking and overflow parking. There would still be parking near the chapel. This model also includes picnic areas. The plan has a one-mile, multi-purpose loop and another half-mile loop that connects to the road and accessible paths.
The model has two large pavilions, four small pavilions and the chapel. It also includes a labyrinth, a natural play area, a dog park and a camp ground. Committee and community feedback
The committee members who were present all consistently agreed that Concept 3 was their least preferred plan. Although they had concluded in the
November meeting that they didn’t want a dog park or a playground, some form of both were in all of the designs.
They were also lukewarm on the camping component, arguing that people looking for a place to smoke marijuana, drink alcohol and do drugs were more likely to use the facility than any scouting groups.
that they were a strong voice in the community. They had three main issues with the Citizen Steering Committee that were posted on their website. Peachtree Corners Magazine presented those complaints to Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Glenn Boorman. His written responses are below:
Some were against any paved paths at all — even though that would limit access for those with disabilities or families that needed to use strollers. And just about everyone wanted to see fewer — not more — pavilions.
Preferences leaned towards Concept 1 for its main area layout and Concept 2 for its limited number of concrete paths. The community emphasized preserving the park’s natural state, citing environmental impacts and overdevelopment.
“I don’t know if y’all know there is a petition going around,” said committee member Danielle Leahy. “It has 1,200 people that [have] signed it that also agree. I’m just letting everyone know we are supposed to gather information, and that’s what I’ve done.”
Leahy said she isn’t satisfied with the way the Citizen Steering Committee is progressing.
“I found it disconcerting that features like the playground and dog park — that were completely nixed by the steering committee last time — were reintroduced on every single plan, nonetheless. The same could be said for the campgrounds, as they had less than 50 percent support at the first meeting, yet they appeared on each plan,” she said.
“Unfortunately, this sends the message to my group and the steering committee that our voices are ultimately not being heard. Gwinnett County seems to be pushing forward with their own hidden agenda no matter the opinions of the steering committee.”
Friends of Simpsonwood
Leahy founded Friends of Simpsonwood, a group of concerned citizens that largely want to see Simpsonwood Park remain pretty much as-is. She and about 50 members of the group attended the meeting. Dressed in red, they wanted to make it known
• The Steering Committee was quietly selected by Gwinnett County, with no transparency about why some citizens were selected and others were not. When asked at the Simpsonwood public meeting in September if members of the public could nominate and/or vote on members of the committee, Gwinnett County denied that request. Without full transparency about who is representing us (and why), we do not have fair representation.
Response: The attached slide was a part of the presentation at the November meeting explaining how the Citizen Steering Committee was established. Besides the original members that returned, the applicants were reviewed for location of residence (one was, in fact, not in Gwinnett County) to ensure an even geographic spread surround the area, review of recreation interests or activities looking for a broad spectrum of interests as well as community mindedness to represent the community.
• The Citizen Steering Committee is not allowed to discuss unwanted park features. During the November meeting, the members of the CSC were openly told that they are not allowed to discuss any features that they do NOT want for the park, only features they do want. This narrow form of discussion disallows real thoughts or opinions to enter the arena.
Response: There are specific activities and features which are not allowed on the property as dictated by the Conservation Easement. There are uses which are planned for other park locations. There is no need to have these items (such as active fields for sports and mountain biking) as part of the discussion.
• The Citizen Steering Committee does not have a vote. As of right now, there are no plans for the CSC to actually vote on any features for the park. As described by one official, the CSC is simply “an advisory committee” to Gwinnett County.
Response: This statement is incorrect, there [was] voting on features … at this meeting.
Debbie Mitchell signs up to speak during the public comment period of the meeting
Pam Prehmus signs up to speak during the public comment period of the meeting
Jack Head gives his feedback on the proposed plans for improvements to Simpsonwood Park
Public comments
The last 10 minutes of the meeting were reserved for public comment. The organizers allotted five speakers to have two minutes each.
Even though he doesn’t live in Gwinnett County, Malte Weiland works at the Peachtree Corners office of Siemens as a sustainability professional. He said he’s in the park about three times a week. He’s also been on the board of the Dunwoody Nature Center for eight years and said he’d be willing to lend any expertise to the park master plan.
“Our park has very similar constraints and also similar guiding principles to what I heard tonight, and we’ve got some semi-innovative ways that we approach that, particularly around our nature-based education and the long-term preservation of natural resources,” he said. “So if anyone’s interested in learning more about how we approach that and how we help this process, or maybe impact the design, I’m happy to meet with you more or just share that as well.”
Debbie Mitchell lives in North Manor and is worried that proposed changes will negatively impact the quality of life for those near the park.
“My house is [to] the back of the church, so I’m very close,” she said. “My concerns are the environmental impact to the humans that live there, as well as the nature and the fact that you’re enhancing something and bringing more into an area of low trash, low light, low sound. I hear that there’s going to be events. And I don’t want to hear rappers in my yard, and that’s basically what it would be.”
She’s also concerned that the enhanced amenities will increase traffic and cause congestion.
“The roads have not been widened. They’ve not been prepared for a park that’s going to have events and have 200-plus cars,” she said.
Pam Prehmus has lived in Peachtree Corners for 43 years. She remembers when it was mainly horse farms and natural greenery.
“Simpsonwood is unique. It is the only park where my daughter and [her] four children, as well as my other grandchildren that come to town, are able to hike in real woods, not man-made woods — real meadows— and play creatively without man-made logs put someplace,” she said. “You talk about preserving Simpsonwood, but you want to bring in more cars, more groups of people, which may actually exacerbate your problems that you’re trying to fix. This causes erosion, disturbances and affects public safety.”
The remaining speakers echoed similar concerns.
“This renovation goes against the three self-directed guiding principles set by this committee to address,” said Jack Head. “The watershed special protection area on the river has proposed items on each concept. … Those river overlooks would invite trash into the river. The parking spaces would clear cut trees. It would not be natural.”
Next steps
The committee had been scheduled to tour Simpsonwood Park, as well as two others in the county, but inclement weather caused the county to postpone the outing.
The next Citizen Steering Committee meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. on March 4 at Pinckneyville Community Center and is open to the public. •
Tales From the Farm: Q&A with Local Indie Children’s Author, Katie Morgan Lester
Local children’s author and illustrator, Katie
Morgan Lester, recently released a new book — the third in her Morgan Farm Books series. Launched last year, Gracie the Goat is all about the importance of being a good listener. Inspired by Lester’s own pet goat from childhood, it tells the tale of Gracie and her adventures in meeting a new friend.
Gracie the Goat follows two previous titles in the series: Picky Pig Pete and Raymond the Rooster. Each of the books includes simple life lessons, as well as rhyming lines, watercolor illustrations and photos of the real animals the stories are based on — elements that appeal to younger kids as well as early readers.
We recently caught up with the Peachtree Corners author to hear more about her life, the book series and what inspires her work.
How long have you lived in Peachtree Corners?
My husband Mark and I have lived in Peachtree Corners for approximately 20 years. We knew even before having our son Brandon
(who is now 17 years old and a junior at Norcross High School), that we loved the area and the people here.
We adore the street we live on with such loving neighbors. We’ve been blessed to be in Peachtree Corners with others providing such a sense of community.
In addition to creating children’s books, I am also a cardio instructor at the local YMCA, and I teach a part time preschool class and an after-school art class at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church. What led you to want to write children’s books?
By Shawne Taylor
I grew up on a South Carolina farm with many
Gracie the Goat author, Katie Morgan Lester and her books.
types of animals. As a child and throughout my adulthood, I have loved to draw illustrations.
I graduated from Furman University with a studio art degree, [then] worked in advertising and marketing for 20 years but always did artwork as a side business — my favorite things to paint being children’s room décor and murals.
Once I had our son Brandon, I aspired to create a children’s book with my own illustrations to dedicate to him. I slowly began creating a rhyming story and the characters to include. I used the farm I grew up on as the setting, and all of the animal characters in my books are based on real ones from there. Where did the idea for the series come from?
My maiden name is Morgan and the name of the farm I grew up on is Morgan Farms. The farm is the setting for all of my books. To use Morgan Farm Books as my series name came naturally and keeps me connected to my family roots.
Each book has an important message for children: Picky Pig Pete teaches children to try something new — whether that’s a new food or an activity — and can be a help to [those with picky eaters]. Raymond the Rooster is a great message that friends come in all colors, shapes and sizes. And Gracie the Goat teaches children to be good listeners.
While each book has its own story and can easily be purchased separately, I felt having a series title would connect my current and future books. It can also give encouragement for those that buy the books to want to continue the series.
How many books do you plan to write and illustrate in the series?
I enjoy writing and illustrating children’s books so much that I would love to continue for years to come. I do not have any specific number of books in mind, but will continue on as long as there are more farm animals and stories to write.
The third book is out now, and you’re
working on the next one. Will that be out this year or next? Can you share anything about it?
I am currently writing my fourth book. As with the others, I’m pulling out one of the current animals to be the main character and hope to have it completed by the end of 2025. The message for that one will be about emotions.
Please keep checking in with me [at my website] as I’ll begin to provide more information on that book soon!
What ages are your books intended for?
The books are great for baby gifts all the way up to approximately eight years old. With the rhyming in each, the books are perfect for early readers. I do add a little bit of humor to each to make them enjoyable for parents as well.
Where can parents find your books?
The Morgan Farm Books can be purchased directly through me or my website. This allows me to write a personalized, encouraging note to your child(ren) and sign each one.
Website: morganfarmbooks.com/purchase-book
Instagram: instagram.com/morganfarmbooks
Facebook: facebook.com/morganfarmbooks
Combos may be purchased as well, which is a book paired with a small stuffed animal, lovingly packaged as a gift. I’m also available for in-person visits or virtual author/illustrator events featuring the books from my series. •
For more information, visit morganfarmbooks.com.
Michael Green, CWS® | Andrew Green, CFP®, AIF®
Roger S Green, MSFS, CFP®
Katie with son Brandon and husband Mark
Local State Legislators Outline Priorities for this General Assembly Session
As with every January, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s annual Eggs and Issues legislative preview event gives residents and stakeholders an idea of what the executive branch plans to focus on during the session.
Governor Brian P. Kemp delivered an address at this year’s event announcing some of his top legislative and budgetary priorities, including maintaining Georgia’s spot as the No. 1 state for business. Additionally, he announced proposals to ensure Georgia is the top state for talent; his intention to enact meaningful tort reform; and new investments in key infrastructure projects statewide.
Along those same lines, Peachtree Corners Magazine reached out to representatives of this part of the state to get a feel for what they’ll be emphasizing this year.
State Rep. Ruwa Romman (D) District 97
By Arlinda Smith Broady
My team and I are dedicated to helping make you safer and healthier and ease the financial burden many of you are feeling. In this upcoming term, I will be pursuing legislation to address healthcare challenges, gun safety reform and education inequality. We’ll also be introducing legislation to address the rising costs of utilities and keeping our environment clean and vibrant.
Emergency services and community safety
On the healthcare side, I am reintroducing my first-ever bill, which seeks to designate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as an essential service in Georgia. I initially introduced this bill last session, but unfortunately, it ran out of time.
Currently, 14 states recognize EMS as essential, and it’s time for us to join them. This bill does not change how or who provides EMS services; rather, it signals to grant providers that EMS is essential in our state. This recognition will enable our EMS providers to apply for much-needed grants and reduce burdensome red tape.
I’m eager to push this forward and ensure that our EMS providers receive the support they deserve.
Community safety is also a top priority, but I do not know how anyone can have a conversation about safe communities without addressing the proliferation of guns. I am co-sponsoring legislation like the Safe Storage Act and a three-day waiting period for the purchase of certain firearms.
Additionally, I will be introducing a bill to mandate reporting for lost or stolen guns.
These specific policies are proven to reduce gun violence in other states and will make us safer. We will continue to push for the change our community needs and protect our kids from these preventable deaths.
Education
On the education front, and in Gwinnett County in particular, we are proud of our diversity. It’s essential that our education system reflects this. One of my priorities this session is to advocate for a certification program that enables teachers to receive training in teaching students in different languages.
Literacy deficiency is currently one of the top barriers to entry for students going into the workforce, and students who don’t speak English as their first language often face even greater challenges with literacy.
By implementing this program, we can ensure that we’re not leaving our students behind, provide them with the tools they need to succeed and thrive in our community and make our school system the best in the nation.
The economy
On the economic front, it feels like everything is skyrocketing in price from food to utilities to housing. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, it is increasingly difficult to find affordable housing.
One of the factors contributing to this crisis is price fixing through algorithmic pricing. This practice relies on automated systems setting property values and rental rates, often leading to higher prices for everyone.
Algorithmic pricing affects all industries, and we need to get a hold of it if we want to start seeing
Ruwa Romman
The Capitol (Wikipedia)
prices go down. I’ll be working with my team to find ways to make the market fairer for all of us.
Rising utility costs
Another financial burden I’m working with my team on is legislation to get utility costs under control. Many of us have seen our electric bills go up multiple times over the past year. This is due to Georgia Power shifting costs to us as consumers for their investment in Plant Vogtle. The rates at which our bills have increased is unacceptable and causing hardship to many families.
My colleagues and I are working to bring relief to you and your families on this issue. We are also working to bring you more options for meeting your electric needs, including solar options. Not only will this keep more money in your pockets, but it will go a long way to preserving the beauty of our city and state.
State Rep. Scott Hilton
(R) District 48
I am incredibly honored to be re-elected to the Georgia House for a third term. As we enter the 2025 legislative session, my goal is simple — continue to make Georgia the very best state to live, work and raise a family.
My focus will be on policies that grow our economy, keep our community safe and our schools strong. Specifically, the House will vote on measures to further reduce our state income tax and return over $1 billion in rebates back to taxpayers.
Committee roles and legislative focus
As a member of the House Education Committee, we will continue to work on policies that increase school safety — including investments into mental health, implementation of new safety technologies and improved communication sharing between agencies.
Personally, I will be working on
More from Rep. Ruwa Romman
Although the legislative process is slow and challenging, we will keep pursuing our priorities until we see the changes necessary to help you and your loved ones.
Unfortunately, there will be those who will try to distract from issues that matter most to you to justify bullying trans children and targeting other members of our community for political gain.
These efforts are harmful to our neighbors and distract from the reality that what our communities want most is being able to afford to live and care for those they love.
It is why I will fight back against any efforts that target vulnerable people and will continue to prioritize addressing the actual issues that matter most to you.
Contact: Ruwa.Romman@House. ga.gov or 404-590-3347
legislation to codify access to IVF, expand school choice, cut government red tape, lower costs for working families and support adults and children with special needs.
I am excited to report that the Speaker of the House, Jon Burns, has recently given me a committee chairmanship. This leadership role will give me an even greater voice in shaping policies that will directly benefit our district.
In addition, I was recently added to the influential Ways and Means Committee, which shapes tax policy in Georgia.
More from Rep. Scott Hilton
During a panel discussion hosted by 11Alive’s Faith Jessie, Hilton shared that his priority list includes addressing inflation, the rising costs of goods for consumers and “really putting more money back in their pockets” through reducing taxes.
“For me, I serve on the Education Committee. That’s a big priority. We spent almost half our budget on education, so things like school safety, literacy and continuing to support our teachers and parents,” he said. “So education and then … Hurricane Helene relief. We still have a lot of folks suffering in South Georgia and other parts of the state. We’ve got to get resources down to them.”
Hilton added that he will be hosting monthly town halls during the legislative session.
“My door is always open if anyone wants to visit the Capitol or have their child (ages 12-18) serve as a House Page,” he said. “The community is welcome to email me or call my cell.” •
Contact: Scott.Hilton@House.ga.gov or 404-951-8902
To Work with A Business Broker in 2025 TOP 5 REASONS
Whether you’ve spent decades building your business or recently stepped into ownership, selling your company is a significant decision. Achieving your goals is easier when you partner with an experienced business broker. Here are the top five reasons to work with a qualified broker in 2025:
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Finding the Ideal Buyer – With access to global networks and advanced marketing tools, brokers confidentially connect you with the best buyers, ensuring a perfect match for your business.
Expert Detail Management – Brokers are seasoned professionals, adept at navigating the complexities of modern business sales, including legal, financial, and technological aspects.
Maximizing Sale Price – Skilled negotiators, brokers leverage their experience and market trends to secure the highest possible price, avoiding pitfalls and ensuring you walk away with the best deal.
Having a professional by your side ensures a smooth sale and maximum profit. Our commitment and expertise guarantee that when you’re ready to sell your business, we’re ready to help. Explore your options by calling us at 770-766-9855 or emailing atlantapeachtree@tworld.com today!
Scott Hilton
Recreational Soccer Club Celebrates 50 Years of Play
According to physicians, educators and child psychologists, there are myriad reasons parents encourage their young children to play soccer:
• Physical fitness: Soccer is a fast-paced sport that can help improve cardiovascular health, muscular strength, flexibility and endurance.
• Motor skills: Soccer involves running, kicking, dribbling and passing, which can help develop balance, agility and coordination.
• Socialization: Soccer can help children make friends from different backgrounds and cultures.
• Teamwork: Soccer is a team sport that teaches children the value of cooperation and working together towards a common goal.
• Life skills: Soccer can help children develop discipline, perseverance and resilience.
• Emotional intelligence: Soccer can help children develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
• Stress reduction: Playing soccer can help reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins that elevate mood.
• Confidence: Consistent practice and dedication can help children build confidence and overcome obstacles.
• Gender equality: Participating in sports like soccer can help break down gender stereotypes.
• Enjoyment: Soccer can help encourage children to enjoy their childhood and stay in school.
A growing community
Nearly three years ago, three local parents had the idea to build an organization for their children to reap the benefits of recreational soccer.
“We found out that we were linked to the athletic club called Peachtree Booster Club,” said Gavin Meech, a club committee member, parent coach and member of the small group that revitalized the soccer program. “It’s sort of an overarching group that also looks after the roller hockey at Pinckneyville Park in Norcross.”
They realized that back in 1975, a youth soccer program called the Jones Bridge Soccer Club was formed at Jones Bridge Park. Now renamed the Peachtree Corners Football Club, the parents decided to put the time and energy into revitalizing — and growing — the decades-old program.
By Arlinda Smith Broady
It’s for those objectives and more that members of the Peachtree Corners Football Club (PCFC) are working so hard to sustain and grow their program.
In February 2022, the three coaches had 170 kids. The program now has nearly 300 kids across 30 teams. The club emphasizes community involvement, with over 5,000 volunteer hours annually from parents and coaches. Challenges include managing growth and ensuring sustainability, though the club aims to expand its field space and engage more local businesses for partnerships.
The organization will soon celebrate 50 years of providing youth recreational level soccer to the local
Photos courtesy of Peachtree Corners FC
community in the southwest corner of Gwinnett County. And registration for the upcoming season is nearly full, highlighting the need for continued community support and involvement
Bringing new energy to an old club
Initially, the group faced challenges in forming the soccer club, including linking with the Peachtree Booster Club and learning administrative tasks.
“That first season was a steep learning curve, and we ended up, I think, with about 170 kids,” said
“We don’t want to lose our identity by expanding too big, because that’s hard to manage,” he added.
Community engagement and future plans
Committee member Mathew Shamloo credits Meech with pulling him into the mix.
“I’d say that Gavin has a very unassuming gravitational pull,” he said. “There’s no real process to it. I think it’s just naturally the people who want to be involved step forward and, whether or not they are
Meech. “So we were driving around Peachtree Corners, sticking the little signs anywhere that we were legally allowed. A few of us were grabbing anybody that would slightly suggest they would help by being a parent coach and things like that.”
Fast forward to this past season where there were just under 300 kids and 30 teams.
“We are now oversubscribed,” he added. “Our return rate is in excess of 80% of the kids and their families. So, it’s really become something that once they join, they return, and through word of mouth, more want to join.”
The club is community-centric, with kids from local schools like Simpson, Berkeley Lake and Cornerstone taking part. Volunteers naturally step forward and get involved, with no formal process.
“[Rapid growth] is a great problem to have. So we’re working with [Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation] at the moment to try and see if we can gain more field space,” Meech said. “We started to utilize the big field near the Aquatic Center. It’s similar in size to Jones Bridge field, but it’s got a slightly different classification at the moment.”
Right now, several clubs are using that space, so a huge obstacle is finding some place to play that’s local so that families won’t have to traipse all over the metro area.
Ted Lasso fashion and stay around for another 50 years, the club focuses on community and engagement with local businesses for partnerships rather than sponsorships.
“Our soccer club and families are more than just a group of people that meet for our kids to play a sport,” said Meech. “Traditionally, you engage with local businesses for sponsorship, but we’re very lucky in the sense that, as a nonprofit supported by parks and rec with facilities, we don’t need a huge amount of sponsorship.”
asked, they’re just kind of pulled in inch by inch.” Shamloo is also a coach, but had no prior experience.
“I had no real ties to soccer before this,” he said. “My daughter wanted to play. My background is in basketball.”
So he utilized some of the fundamentals that apply to any team sport and researched best coaching practices.
“I want her to play soccer because it’s easily accessible, it’s local, it’s right around the corner from us,” he said. “It was like, ‘Hey, there’s soccer. We can start there.’”
Like most parents, Meech and Shamloo don’t have dreams that their kids will turn into David Beckham or Brandi Chastain. But if the kids have those aspirations, PCFC has ties to bigger opportunities.
“I think what we’ve managed to achieve is we have raised the bar on rec sports, and we are able to compete, but we’re fundamentally a rec club,” said Meech. “I think some of the challenges of the past [are] where you get to a point where you say, ‘Well, should we become an academy? Should we offer the next level of competition to the kids?’ But sort of the mentality we’ve had, and kind of our foundation, is no, that Peachtree Corners is a local rec club.”
In order to keep doing what they do in an amateur
Expanding the community
Soccer is easily accessible globally because all you need is a ball and a goal and some grass or something similar, so the costs are relatively low, he added.
“We’ve been able to engage with local restaurants, other sporting facilities and work in more of a partnership with them to create this wider community beyond Jones Bridge soccer playing fields,” he said.
Both men pointed out that they go to Town Center or other sporting events with their families and inevitably bump into Peachtree Corners FC players and family members everywhere.
“Local businesses reach out to us and try to find out how they can contribute,” said Meech.
Although the club is at capacity, it still invites families and businesses to visit and see the activities firsthand. The committee members want to build awareness and community involvement, as the club aims to continue growing and providing a positive experience for all involved while maintaining its community-centric focus. •
For more information about the Peachtree Corners Football Club, visit pcfcsoccer.com.
Life Time Rebrands as Luxury Wellness Country Club
Life Time Fitness has been synonymous with health and wellness in the metro Atlanta area for decades. But as needs change, so must any successful endeavor. Life Time has recently gone through a subtle rebranding as Life Time Athletic County Club, and the public has noticed.
“They clearly have a plan to be viewed as a wellness country club and not just a gym,” said one social media influencer. “And you can tell from their actual physical spaces. They all look luxurious and have esthetic designs now in these very subtle changes. So their branding is playing out perfectly to their plan.”
The Peachtree Corners location is one that com-
pleted the refresh in mid-2024.
“When you really look at what we can offer, we want to be that place for everybody,” said Sharon Randall, Georgia area director. “And when you have a sport like pickleball, you see all ages. You see families, you see parents with their kids and grandparents. That’s really where that sort of started. It really goes with our whole ‘healthy way of life’ philosophy; we have something for everyone.”
To be more family- and community-inclusive, Life Time Peachtree Corners significantly expanded its pickleball offerings, converting basketball courts to indoor pickleball courts and adding outdoor courts.
There are nine clubs in Atlanta, with seven currently operational and two more opening soon. The changes have paid off with a surge in participation — 400-500 unique players monthly among the clubs. And there are plans to expand even further.
Expansion and community building
Life Time emphasizes community building, hosting events and providing comprehensive fitness and social activities. The company also focuses on hiring top-tier instructors and maintaining high standards across their facilities.
“Our CEO is forward-thinking and always ahead of trends, with a history of successful executions,” said Carol Campa, Life Time’s pickleball lead. “Life Time conducts market research and pilots new programs in small groups before expanding them across the company.”
She emphasized the importance of strategic programming to ensure efficient use of space and community engagement.
“We see the certain trends out there in the communities, and we are very good at coming up with an action plan and really being able to execute it across the entire company and landscape,” said Randall. “Pickleball is one of those examples. We have many of them. Maybe it’s a new yoga format that’s coming or a new group fitness class that’s coming. When CrossFit was really big, we started what we call our alpha program.”
With clubs across the country, Life Time is able to test the waters, so to speak.
By Arlinda Smith Broady
Their decision to expand pickleball offerings wasn’t done on a whim. In an industry where nimbleness means many things, they have the ability to adapt to trends and put research behind those decisions.
“We do a ton of market research to see what people are asking for and start it in a smaller section of our clubs with pilot programs in seven to 10 clubs across the country,” said Randall. “And when those things take off, and we’ve really figured out the kinks, we have a playbook and we’re ready to run with it.”
The pickleball plan started at a few clubs in the past few years.
“We tried it out on one side of the basketball court,
Photos courtesy of Life Time Fitness
We help you feel part of the community. Once you go and play pickleball, get to know a few people, or you go to a small group training class and then … miss a week or two, when you get back you realize you’ve been missed.
Sharon Randall
converting it to three pickleball courts at a few of the clubs,” said Randall. “We saw that it worked, and then we started doing more and more. By the end of [this] year, they’ll be at every club that has two basketball courts. One side will be converted to pickleball.”
Rebranding and social aspects
Life Time’s rebranding aims to shift the focus from a tennis-centric club to a tennis and pickleball center with a social atmosphere.
“With the term ‘athletic,’ you’re thinking more about a fitness, big box type of place,” said Campa. “This is very much a tennis and pickleball center now. We want people to feel the social aspect. It’s not somewhere you just come in, go to your class and leave.”
The outdoor pickleball courts are adjacent to a full-service bar and lounge area. The indoor courts aren’t far from areas where members can set up remote work.
“We want them to feel the atmosphere of the country club,” Campa added. “So that’s what we’re going for with this — come in, play, stay, continue the growth of your community, go back and play some more.”
Kids Academy and community events
Current members are seeing the transformations, but prospective members are encouraged to come take a tour and see how Life Time is different.
“We ask a lot of questions and get to know [new members],” said Randall. “If it’s a family with kids, we have swim lessons. So we offer a complimentary month of swim lessons to get them started in their programming.”
The club’s kids academies offer programming throughout the day.
“It’s really cool when mom comes in and she goes to her yoga class and we match up our Kids Academy schedule to have our kids yoga class at the same time,” said Randall. “We also have something called Parents Night Out, where you drop off your kiddos and go out to dinner and enjoy some adult time.”
Additionally, Life Time will help map out an entire fitness plan based on preferences, schedules and personal goals.
“We help you feel part of the community,” Randall said. “Once you go and play pickleball, get to know a few people, or you go to a small group training class and then … miss a week or two, when you get back you realize you’ve been missed.”
She added for many it’s a great feeling when you start to have other accountability — partners throughout the club from relationships that you’ve built. And although physical fitness is a key part of the club, mental wellness is also important.
“This has always been, naturally, a bigger events community for us, just because of sheer space,” said Randall. “There’s enough room for wedding receptions in here.”
But when it’s not being rented out for private gatherings, there are member events.
“We have trivia nights, we have karaoke nights, we have burgers and grooves,” said Randall. “We’ve done pickleball mixers and glow in the dark where it’s black lighted and everybody dresses up in neon.” Future goals and member engagement
Life Time aims to have at least 100 unique participants per court to show that the investment has paid off.
“Every club is hitting 150, and we’re looking at other possibilities,” said Randall. “We’re always going to continue to push that envelope to see what we can really do. We learn best practices from other clubs. Life Time hosts big PPA and MLB tournaments, with plans to continue these events and expand our reach.”
Replicating what works at other locations is a tried-and-true success model.
“We never rest on our laurels,” Randall added. “We’re always trying to set our expectations as high as possible, because that’s how we got to build this amazing company.” •
Business Organizations and Events
Atlanta Tech Park
107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 atlantatechpark.com, 404-797-1221
Atlanta Tech Meet Up
Tuesdays, February 4 and March 4. 6-8 p.m.
Monthly meet-up held on the first Tuesday of the month. Tech admirers and professionals are welcome to meet and discuss all things emerging in technology in the café. Beer and pizza are provided.
TiE Atlanta High School Program
Sundays, February 9, 23; March 9, 23. 1-4 p.m.
TiE High School empowers high school students with the means of entrepreneurship. It’s a hands-on entrepreneurship, ideation, business model, financial and customer discovery program taught by entrepreneur mentors from the TiE Atlanta network.
Path PT Insider Guide to Smarter Health Care
February 14. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Path PT is free to attend and will help participants understand the root of pain, how to navigate the healthcare system and empower recovery. Register online to attend.
Wine Wednesday / Pitch Night
Wednesday, February 26 and March 26. 5-6:30 p.m.
Entrepreneurs can sign up online for the opportunity to pitch their ideas to other area business owners and investors or come to observe, network and enjoy wine, beer and light bites. In February, ATP partner, Nichols Cauley, will also be discussing tax updates to help you file for 2024. Registration is required to pitch.
Founders Friday
Fridays, February 28. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
A monthly Expert Series, compli-
mentary to members, that focuses on strategies and challenges for founders. $10 for non-members.
5 Threats to Your Family’s Financial Future: Estate Planning
March 4. 2-4 p.m.
Presented by Estate Planning Law Group of Georgia, this free, in-person event will review everything participants need to know to protect themselves and their loved ones financially. Light refreshments
Actionable Techniques to Improve Your Personal Impact. Breakfast buffet is included. Registration is required.
Thursday Thought Leaders: Georgia
Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger
March 13. 8-9:30am
Tickets: $28 for members; $35 for non-members
Secretary of State Brad Raffensperg-
will be served; participants must register online.
3rd Marketing AI
Pulse
March 27. 2-5:30 p.m.
Learn how AI can elevate your marketing with big ideas and sharp strategies presented by a lineup of experts and fellow marketing enthusiasts. Register online.
Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce
Office in Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
southwestgwinnettchamber.com, 470-482-1899
Coffee Connections
February 6, 20 and 27; March TBD. 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Start your day with coffee and conversation in the company of local business professionals at this casual networking event held at Atlanta Tech Park. Free for members and non-members.
Thursday Thought Leaders: Lynne Segall
February 13. 8-9:30am
Tickets: $28 for members; $35 for non-members
Join Lynn Segall of Emory Goizueta School of Business as she presents The ABCs of Executive Presence:
Peachtree Corners Business Association
4989 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 215, Peachtree Corners
peachtreecornersba.com, 678-969-3385
PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup
Tuesdays, February 11 and March 11. 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Free admission for PCBA members and their guests. Register online as space is limited.
Meet with other PCBA and business professionals over coffee in a positive atmosphere on the second Tuesday of the month. Business cards will be shared with all attendees.
PCBA Lunch Club
er will be sharing the most recent updates happening under the Gold Dome. A business owner himself, Secretary Raffensperger has championed legislative reforms aimed at strengthening small businesses and fostering economic prosperity across the state. Breakfast buffet is included. Registration is required.
Thursdays, February 20 and March 20. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 pm
Marlow’s Tavern, 5210 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Members and their guests are invited to come out to Marlowe’s Tavern at Town Center to meet and network with other PCBA members. Lunch is not provided, but participants will get 15% off of their bill. Advance registration is appreciated.
PCBA Business After Hours Speaker Series
February 27 and March 27. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hilton Atlanta Northeast, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Tickets: $40 per person
Monthly speaker series that also offers an opportunity to network and enjoy a variety of beverages and great food. The PCBA also presents checks to local outstanding charity organizations at this event. Advance registration is appreciated.
Rotary Club of Peachtree Corners
The Hickory Room 5260 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersrotary.org, 770-330-7477
Club Meetings
Meetings are held on most Mondays; check the website for more info. February 3, 10 and 24 — speaker TBA March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 — speaker TBA
Brad Raffensperger
Lynn Segall
BRACK: How one city operates without property tax
Courtesy of Elliott Brack’s Gwinnett Forum
Some people lament paying taxes. They don’t understand that taxes allow us to live in a more civilized manner, helping and protecting us all along. That’s why I don’t mind paying reasonable taxes for the safety of everyday living.
Many don’t recognize it, but you are often paying a small tax without realizing it as you go about your everyday business….but it’s not called a tax.
It’s called a “fee.” Each time you pay your power or utility bill and cable bill, your insurance premium, when you rent a hotel room or car…and other ways…you are providing a few cents or dollars to help fund mostly local government.
The newly-minted City of Mulberry (and previously Peachtree Corners) will run its government without taxing property owners paying a tax to fund its operations. How so? Entirely from fees.
Let’s visit what the other city without property taxes, Peachtree Corners, is doing.
We talked with Cory Salley, who is the finance director for Peachtree Corners. He sent along a graphic which shows where Peachtree Corners gets its funding, as well as how it is spent. (See graphic.)
For the most part, Peachtree Corners is funded by fees. The biggest comes from Georgia Power Company, paying $2.8 million in fees for the city for 2025. Other utilities include $450,000 from Atlanta Gas Light Company; $250,000 from Comcast; $70,000 from Direct TV; and $42,000 from AT&T. (That last figure was interesting, in effect, showing how few people have land-line telephones anymore.) Altogether, utility fees brought in $4.3 million in Peachtree Corners for 2024.
Another bucket of fees include $3.8 million in insurance fees. This comes in one check from the Department of Revenue, which collects insurance fees for all cities.
Each business in Peachtree Corners pays an occupational business license tax. With lots of professional offices in the city, these businesses contribute
$4.4 million to the city coffers. Other fee collections for 2024:
• Alcoholic licenses and sales: $1 million.
• Zoning and land development permits: $1.4 million.
SPLOST funds on sales within
Corners: $10 million.
• Automobile and vehicle purchases: $1.7 million. This is interesting: no matter where you buy an automobile in Georgia, part of the sales tax reverts to the city where you live.
Then there are other funds coming to the city; stormwater fees, grants, solid waste, etc. Altogether, it added up to approximately a $40 million income to run the city.
Some specifics and the way they are figured:
• Real estate transfer taxes: This tax is imposed at the rate of $1 on the first $1,000 and 10 cents on each additional $10 on any
conveyance of real property when the value of the interest transferred exceeds $100.
• Distilled Spirits—up to 22 cents per liter on package sales and up to 3 percent of the sale price of a drink on sales to the public;
• Wine—up to 22 cents per liter; and
• Malt Beverages—up to $6.00 per bulk container (no more than 15.5 gallons) to be paid by the wholesaler and up to 5 cents per 12 ounces when sold in bottles, cans or other containers.
• A municipality may levy a business license tax on depository financial institutions (such as a bank.) The maximum rate of this tax is 0.25 percent.
• Hotel-motel tax: a municipality may levy a hotel-motel tax at a rate of 3 percent or less or at a rate of 5, 6, 7, or 8 percent. (Yes, let the out-of-towner pay!)
Perhaps this gives you an idea of how a city, like Mulberry in the future, can operate without property taxes.
Have a comment? Send to: elliott@elliottbrack
Written by Elliott Brack
This material is presented with permission from Elliott Brack’s GwinnettForum, an online site published Tuesdays and Fridays. To become better informed about Gwinnett, subscribe (at no cost) at GwinnettForum. •
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Peachtree
Cory Salley
FEATURE EXCERPT FROM SOUTHWEST GWINNETT MAGAZINE
Peachtree Corners Adopts New Development Plan for the Central Business District
Words by Arlinda Smith Broady
On May 3, the city of Peachtree Corners put in place a moratorium on development in the central business district.
“One of the reasons that led to that is we were starting to see, from the marketplace, a lot of properties in our central business district come online for sale,” said Community Development Director Shaun Adams during the Peachtree Corners Life podcast with Southwest Gwinnett magazine publisher Rico Figliolini.
“[Developers] were looking to redevelop sites in a way that didn’t necessarily align with what we felt our long-term vision of the central business
district was. And when you look at the central business district, it’s a big piece of all of our office parks, including Tech Park and some of our retail nodes.”
Adams added that having one policy that covered the entire area was broader than what the city wanted.
“We pressed pause,” he said, “and started working on a small area plan.”
The planning commission made recommendations on November 12, and the city council voted unanimously to adopt it on December 17.
Key points and concerns
The city’s small area plan focuses on the central business district. Key points included:
• A daytime population of nearly 20,000 versus 2,400 residents — highlighting commuter traffic.
• An asset inventory identified high vacancy and underutilized spaces.
• Seven sub-areas were outlined: district hub, district infill, targeted infill, commercial core, Town Center gateway, flex office and suburban transition.
• Concerns were raised about high-density development in the Town Center gateway area, citing traffic volume and safety issues.
Throughout the process, there were focus groups with brokers and office owners in the central business district. The final plan emphasizes the need for granular development guidelines and community feedback.
“We had a public engagement meeting. I’ve had some one-on-one conversations with members of the public who have reached out to me as well and provided feedback,” said Adams. “As a byproduct of that, we had a couple of themes that came out of those engagement sessions that spoke to more placemaking opportunities or amenitizing the Tech Park/central business district area, taking it from an eight-hour day to a
Shaun Adams
sixteen-hour day type of thought process, [adding] more gathering space where we could and a better mix of housing stock within the area.”
The asset assessment
The city did an “asset inventory” looking at every commercial building in the central business district.
“We did a market analysis as well, to determine how they were from a condition standpoint, what their occupancy rates were, what’s on the market, what’s not [and] what properties have more underutilized space or parking than others,” said Adams.
“And as a byproduct of that, we’ve … set out these seven sub-areas — which is probably the biggest change in the small area plan — within the sub-district that allows us to get a little more granular and look at each of these areas and say, okay, what may make sense from a redevelopment standpoint or development standpoint in one area may not make sense in another.”
As an addendum to the 2045 comprehensive plan, the changes go into effect immediately.
“It is a policy document. It’s not a law document,” said Adams. “The comprehensive plan is meant to guide our 10-to-20-year vision of how we see the city progressing.”
The new plan
“One of the sections that is in the central business district, I didn’t even realize, was the G section [at the] intersection of Peachtree Corners Circle and West Jones Bridge Road and Crooked Creek,” said Figliolini. “I didn’t even realize that was in the central business district area.”
Adams and Figliolini went through the map.
“I think the reason why [this area is] included is because they are mostly institutional uses, which tend to lean on the commercial side versus everything around it being residential,” said Adams.
He explained that the previous policy was too broad for the entire area.
“We identified and understood that what may be appropriate along 141 and sub-area A probably isn’t appropriate in G. And so, we wanted to try to carve that out for a couple of reasons,” he said. “One is for the community to understand that we recognize there’s a difference in what might be able to go there, but also for developers to know that, while it’s in the central business district, athletic fields probably aren’t the place for an intense development.”
That’s why area G has been singled out, Adams added.
“It will maintain its existing institutional character with the schools and the churches and the YMCA there to the extent that if it were to be redeveloped in the future, it needs to take on the low-intensity residential character of all the residential around it,” he said. “And so, if anything, it should act more like … Amberfield and Peachtree Station and everything that’s right by it and less like [the] central business district.”
Retail and entertainment
The darkened areas of the map — The Forum, Town Center and Dick’s Sporting Goods on the south end, along with the Chick-fil-A — are really the retail entertainment sections.
“It really isn’t the same as the rest of the central business district, which is office focused,” said Adams.
He added that Town Center and The Forum are either in the process of or already built out. There’s not a lot of potential for change.
With updates coming to the comprehensive plan about every five years, Adams added that development will evolve with the city’s needs.
Explanation of each district
A. District Hub Subarea Vision
“To me, the biggest change is what the sub-areas are allowing us to do, other than stating that we’ve got a couple of zoning districts in the works as a byproduct of this, so that we can fully implement the plan,” said Adams.
“We do have two applications in for December [for the] planning commission, but they’re not really specific to these changes. So, we haven’t had that rush — even though the moratorium ended on November 3 — of people coming in.”
He added, “It’ll be interesting, as people maybe flip their heads out of the sand after the holidays in January and start to kick tires again, to kind of see the reaction of the development community the first couple of times they come in on some of these properties and talk with us about it.” •
The vision for the District Hub subarea is to create a central gathering space for the CBD that provides a variety of entertainment, restaurant, and retail options, but at a scale and of a variety different from the Town Center and the Forum. This area is strategically located in the center of the CBD area and at the intersection of several existing, in progress, or planned trails. Additionally, the undeveloped greenspace to the south and the lake area to the north can serve as public space amenities within walking distance to new development. New developments should be walkable in nature, with buildings fronting public streets, active ground floor uses, and interconnectivity with adjacent properties where possible.
B. District Infill Development Character Description
The vision for the District Infill subarea is to revitalize the area by redeveloping underutilized office buildings, parking and/or vacant land with a mix of residential and commercial uses. There is a preference for higher density housing when supporting office stock or as part of mixed use housing development. This approach not only maximizes the use of existing land and resources, but it also enhances the overall livability of the area. New developments should be walkable, with buildings fronting public streets, active ground floor uses, and interconnectivity with adjacent properties where possible. The District Infill subarea will serve as a catalyst for economic growth by providing the new and diverse types of mixed housing needed to support additional commercial and retail investment in this subarea and the entire CBD area.
C. Targeted Infill Development Character Description
The vision for the Targeted Infill subarea is to add new residential and commercial development, while preserving and enhancing existing office where possible. Higher intensity development should be focused along Peachtree Parkway or in areas not immediately adjacent to existing single-family areas outside the CBD. New developments should be walkable, with buildings fronting public streets, active ground floor uses, and interconnectivity with adjacent properties where possible. The Targeted Infill subarea will provide accessory residential development that will support additional commercial and retail development within the CBD. Medium-density, owner-occupied
D. Commercial Core — Development Character Description
The vision for the Commercial Core subarea is to preserve and enhance the existing well performing office and employment uses. Recognizing the value and success of these office buildings, the focus is on maintaining their functionality and ensuring they continue to thrive. In areas where there may be an excess amount of parking spaces, infill development that complements the existing businesses can be considered. This secondary or accessory development should be carefully planned to support and enhance the office uses in the area. Placemaking enhancements should be prioritized
E. Town Center Gateway — Development Character Description
The vision for the Town Center Gateway subarea is to serve as a compliment to Town Center with residential infill development that will support the existing and planned commercial and retail development within Town Center and The Forum. New developments should be walkable, with buildings fronting public streets, active ground floor uses, and interconnectivity with adjacent properties where possible. Multimodal connectivity into the Town Center should be prioritized when possible.
F. Flex Office Development Character Description
The vision for the Flex Office subarea is to maintain and enhance the existing development in this area while improving access and aesthetics where possible. This area provides a location for employment and light industrial uses that support the overall economic health of the city. When new development or major renovations do occur, additional access or aesthetic improvements should be explored.
G. Suburban Transition Development Character Description
The Suburban Transition subarea is focused on maintaining the low-intensity, single-family and institutional uses with no significant changes. Due to this area’s character and proximity to surrounding neighborhoods, it should be clear of redevelopment, especially at higher intensities. By preserving the existing land uses and minimizing disruptions, the area can provide a transition between higher and lower intensity areas.
Scan the QR code to see the Central Business District Small Area Study, November 2024.
From the Mayor’s Desk 2025: An Update on What’s Next
As we start the new year, I am excited to share updates on several key projects that are shaping the future of our City. These developments represent our continued commitment to creating a thriving, innovative, and connected community. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening across Peachtree Corners.
The highly anticipated Forum project is making significant progress. Construction on the Forum apartments is slated to begin later this year or early next year. These apartments will include a structured parking deck, ensuring convenient access for future residents as well as visitors. Following the apartments, the final piece of the project—the hotel—will take shape, bringing added vibrancy and hospitality to our town center.
The expansion of the Intuitive campus is well underway, with the East building currently under construction. Scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026, this addition will bring the campus to an impressive 40 acres with nine buildings. This stateof-the-art development underscores our City’s reputation as a hub for innovation and cutting-edge technology.
Our City’s renowned Curiosity Lab continues to grow. This summer, con-
struction will begin on a roadway extension, enhancing connectivity and access to this groundbreaking smart city and mobility innovation ecosystem. Additionally, with the purchase of 147 Technology Parkway, the Innovation Center will be expanded into a two-building complex allowing us to welcome additional new businesses to the Lab.
A new addition to our cityscape, the Curiosity Corner mobility hub, is set to break ground in March. This space will serve as a cornerstone for transportation and innovation, integrating seamlessly with the City’s vision for the future of mobility.
We’re working closely with the county to enhance security at Jones Bridge Park, ensuring it remains a safe and welcoming space for all. Additionally, construction of Point Place is scheduled to begin this spring, adding another wonderful destination for recreation and community engagement.
While we are still in the design and development phase for new walking paths and sidewalks, these projects remain a priority. They are essential for enhancing walkability and connectivity across Peachtree Corners, and I look forward to sharing more updates as they take shape.
Mark your calendars—our new Public Works Building is scheduled to open in March. This state-of-the-art facility will enhance our ability to serve residents efficiently and effectively.
In the coming months, you’ll see new initiatives and improvements from our Marshal’s department, ensuring that public safety remains a top priority. Upcoming community cleanup events, enhanced business and residential compliance checks, and expanded e-bike patrols in the Downtown District are just a few ways they’re working to ensure a safe, clean, and vibrant community.
While many exciting projects are underway, we’re also setting our sights on the future. Big developments are expected in 2025, which will further enrich Peachtree Corners and improve quality of life for all residents. I look forward to sharing more as these plans unfold.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for our growing community. Together, we are building a city that reflects our shared values and aspirations.
Gwinnett County’s newest and largest city, Peachtree Corners, was founded July 1, 2012 and is located along the Chattahoochee River in the southwest corner of the county. The city is home to over 45,000 residents and 3,000 businesses.
Mike Mason, Mayor
City of Peachtree Corners Installs Bioswales on Bankers Industrial
To assist with water quality and to lessen the impacts of potential flooding, earlier this year, the City of Peachtree Corners installed a bioswale on Bankers Industrial Drive. A bioswale is a shallow, landscaped depression in the ground that collects, filters, and treats stormwater runoff. Bioswales are designed to reduce flooding, filter pollutants, and slow runoff.
This project began as an offshoot of the Georgia Environmental Protection Department’s Nancy Creek Watershed Improvement Plan. The City participated due to the headwaters of Nancy Creek being located inside Peachtree Corners city limits around Bankers Industrial Drive.
To help fund the project, the City applied for and was awarded federal Section 319(h) funds for design and construction of $400,000. The City was required to provide a local match of $392,749.
About the Project
The Bankers Industrial area is a heavily urbanized area with many impervious areas including large buildings, parking lots, and connecting road networks, which are common in industrial complexes. This area typically sheds large volumes of stormwater runoff
which has caused localized flooding and water quality impacts downstream in the tributary of Nancy Creek.
This project installed 10 (ten) linear bioretention cells/bioswales totaling up to 13,000 square feet in area within the City right of way along Bankers Industrial Drive. The linear bioretention cells/bioswales were installed as a retrofit into the landscaped areas adjacent to parking lots, roadways and/or large rooftops within the existing stormwater drainage system. The bioswales infiltrate and treat stormwater before its discharge to the existing system.
As the system previously existed, most stormwater infrastructure dis-
City of Peachtree Corners to Receive $8.4M in ARC Funding for Multi-use Trail Projects
Peachtree Corners is proud to announce that we have received funding from the Atlanta Regional Commission for $8.4M for three of our multi-use trail projects.
Crooked Creek Trail - North Section from the Existing multi-use trail and Sandy Springs’ Crooked Creek Park at Spalding Drive and Peachtree Corners Circle – Right of Way Acquisition - $4M in FY 2027
Burdell Branch - Phase 2 from Engineering Drive and Woodhill Drive –Construction - $ 3.2M – In FY 2028
Jones Bridge Park Connector from National Park Service’s Jones Bridge CRNA to the north and Gwinnett County’s Jones Bridge Park to the south –Primary Engineering - $ 1.2M in FY 2025
charged directly to the Nancy Creek tributary without any treatment or attenuation since the area was developed before the current Georgia Stormwater Management Manual (GSMM) design standards. This project demonstrates watershed improvements by retrofitting and installing updated stormwater controls, green infrastructure, and stormwater treatment within a heavily urbanized area while leveraging dedicated funding sources, including the City’s stormwater utility.
In addition to managing nonpoint source pollution, the project provides several other environmental benefits
including the reduction in volume and rate of runoff flow into the tributary of Nancy Creek. The excessive volume generated by impervious surfaces in the headwaters of the watershed has damaged the health of the tributary downstream, impacting aquatic habitat and increasing the sediment loads carried into Nancy Creek. This project is expected to infiltrate approximately 4 million gallons of runoff per year and provide an effective solution for addressing water quality impacts by addressing runoff reduction and infiltrating stormwater runoff.
