Peachtree Corners Magazine - August/September 2021

PEACHTREE CORNERS FESTIVAL

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS OFFICIAL CITY NEWS►

PEACHTREE CORNERS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 16 ■ LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

MAILED TO EVERY HOUSEHOLD IN THE CITY

Brothers Breaking into the Film Industry

POSTAL CUSTOMER

‘STAY POSITIVE’

DEBBIE MASON’S JOURNEY WITH A DAUNTING DIAGNOSIS PAGE 54

THE KARATE KIDS — A FAMILY BUSINESS PAGE 22

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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CONTENTS Events First Up

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Cover Story / Arts & Entertainment Brothers Breaking into the Film Industry

16

PHOTO BY BOB CHADWICK | TOWN GREEN FOUNCTAIN

Business The Karate Kids

22

A Risk and Hard Work Lead to Sweet Success

26

Peachtree Farm and Why It Is Important

28

Knowledge Navigating Back to School in Gwinnett County

32

3DE Changed My Life

36

Community 10th Annual Peachtree Corners Festival Returns

37

Summer of Peachtree Corners

41

Light Up the Corners Races Through Town Again

44

Sports & Recreation

41

Q&A: The Strong Comeback of Autumn Clark

46

Community Military Officer Organization Gathers at “Susan’s Summer Social”

50

Stay Positive: Debbie Mason’s Journey with a Daunting Diagnosis

54

Three City Mayors Discuss Post-COVID-19 Improvement Plans

56

Arts & Entertainment Broadway’s Back in Atlanta

60

Spaces Commercial Real Estate in Peachtree Corners Stays Strong Through the Pandemic

46

62

Nourish Grub Up! Food Trucks in and near Peachtree Corners

66

Best Seat in the House Peachtree Corners Book Launch Party

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OFFICIAL CITY NEWS

Inside Peachtree Corners

About the Cover Pictured on the cover are actors Michael Kendall Kaplan and David Alexander Kaplan Photography by George Hunter.

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36 August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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PEACHTREECORNERS EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

KELSEY ASHER EDITOR EMERITUS

KATHY DEAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE RICO FIGLIOLINI

KELSEY ASHER

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.

Kelsey Asher is a proud graduate of the University of West Georgia with a Bachelor’s in Communications. She has held a variety of marketing leadership roles for several small, startup companies in a variety of industries including publishing, construction and technology.

Publisher & Executive Editor

RITA FIGLIOLINI

KATHY DEAN

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

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

Editorial Consultant

PATRIZIA WINSPER

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

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

Writer

JULIE MURCIA

GEORGE HUNTER

Julie Murcia has been a graphic designer for several years and works with Peachtree Corners Magazine to design ads for our clients.

When she’s not doing that or other freelance work, she operates and owns a dog walking and pet sitting business.

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

Photographer

Graphic Designer

PEACHTREECORNERS PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678-358-7858 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.

August/September 2021 issue Volume 2 Number 16 ©2021 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

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Editor Emeritus

JULIE DAVIS

Account Executive

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

Contributing Editor

KRIS BIRD

MARK WOOLSEY

Kris Bird is an Atlanta-based freelance writer who specializes in Marketing and Communications. After earning her degree from Stony Brook University, Kris has been working as a science fiction and fantasy novelist for the past decade.

Mark Woolsey is a communications professional who got hooked on radio and the written word at an early age. He attended Southern Illinois University and went on to pursue a 44-year broadcast career spanning nine states. He has worked as a news anchor, reporter, air personality, traffic reporter and meteorologist.

Writer

Writer

RENA WILLIAMS

ELIZABETH SIGMON

Rena Williams is a brand image consultant with a BS in Marketing from Hampton University and an Executive MBA from Kennesaw State University. Rena enjoys traveling, working out and spending time with her husband and two daughters.

Elizabeth Sigmon (@_efsigmon) is a junior Creative Writing Major and Music Minor at Young Harris College. She graduated from Norcross High School in 2018. Aside from writing, Elizabeth has been singing and performing as long as she can remember and music will always hold a special place in her heart.

Writer

Writer

FERNANDA PIMENTEL

TRACEY RICE

Fernanda Pimental is a Peachtree Corners Magazine intern who attends Paul Duke STEM High School. She enjoys going on walks, scrapbooking and reading good books. Her greatest passions include videography, photography and editing.

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.

Intern, Videography

Photographer

KHARISS BENDER

KARL BARHAM

Khariss Bender, currently a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian, interned with the Peachtree Corner Magazine this summer.

Bender aspires to become a broadcast journalist, and has excelled in the areas of media production and extemporaneous speaking.

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

Intern, Writer

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Co-Host on the CAPITALIST SAGE

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GEORGIA CLINIC, PC CARING FOR GENERATIONS, ONE PATIENT AT A TIME

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(opposite J Alexanders restaurant from mall)

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6330 Primrose Hill Ct, Norcross, GA 30092 770-903-0120

www.gaclinicpc.com December 2019/January 2020■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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FIRST UP

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do

Town Green Calendar 5140 Town Center Boulevard Peachtree Corners 30092 peachtreecornersga.gov

Important Note: All city events are subject to postponement or cancellation due to current health and safety concerns, as well as other mitigating factors. Please check the city website and calendar for updates and COVID protocols. If reservations, masks and other precautions are required, the city’s website will include all necessary information at least one week before the event. Check peachtreecornersga.gov.

For the safety and convenience of all guests the following items are prohibited on the Town Green: glass containers; fires or barbecue grills; hard-sided or large coolers; large or over-sized bags/backpacks, luggage, or duffel bags; fireworks or sparklers; smoking, vaping or use of any tobacco products; illegal substances or drugs; pets or animals, with the exception of service animals; flying objects, including but not limited to sports balls, flying discs, beach, balls or drones; tents, tables or staking.

No items can be affixed to any park infrastructure.

Flicks on the Green

attention to detail in live renditions of tunes from Boy to Songs of Experience, and from The Joshua Tree, ZooTV and Vertigo is unparalleled.

September 11 — The Sundogs were formed by brothers Lee and Will Haraway in Atlanta in the early 2000s. They quickly earned attention for the melodic Americana Rock and Roll sound of their records and especially for their high-energy live shows.

Sports on the Screen August 21 — Braves vs. Orioles 7:05-9:35 p.m.

Come tailgate with fellow fans on the Town Green. Sports fans are encouraged to bring their own coolers or purchase food and drink from one of the many restaurants in the Town Center.

Summer Concert Series

Last Saturday of each month through September. 7-9 p.m. Reservations are not required for the Summer Concert Series and admission is free.

August 28 — The Garth Brooks Tribute. The band is celebrating over 24 years of giving audiences across the county a live Garth Brooks experience that is performed with amazing accuracy and respect.

First Saturday of each month through October. Movies begin at 7 p.m.

August 7 — Thor September 4 — Cars Come to the Town Green for Flicks on the Green, a free movie series featuring iconic movies on their anniversary. Bring a blanket and stretch out on the lawn to experience movies under the stars. Grab food from your favorite Town Green restaurants and picnic. Low profile lawn chairs are also allowed.

Parking is available within the Town Center. Additional parking is available off Davinci Court off Peachtree Corners Circle (3720 Davinci Court, 3715 Davinci Court or 2745 Davinci Court). Cross Peachtree Corners Circle and access the Town Green via a path — look for the signs.

Yoga on the Green

Every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. through September 28.

August 10, 17, 24, 31 and September 7, 14, 21, 28.

Everyone from beginners to experienced yogis are welcome to this free yoga class taught by David Penn from Sun Dragon Yoga. It is suggested you bring water (no glass containers), a small towel or two, and a mat if you have one. Attendees should also wear comfortable clothes that allow a full range of motion; consider a close-fitting shirt, or a shirt that can be tucked in. Loose shirts float up on forward bends and get in the way of your practice. Come in whatever shoes you would like, as practice will be done in your bare feet.

Night Music

Second Saturday of each month through September. 7-9 p.m. Reservations and tickets are no longer required for Night Music events.

Night Music features live, local bands at the Town Green.

August 14 — Out of Control is a U2 Tribute band whose mantra is “Only U2 does U2 better.” Out of Control’s quest for accuracy, excitement and

September 25 — Tribute. A celebration of The Allman Brothers Band.

Tribute is a powerful eight-piece group that faithfully recreates the music of one of the finest bands of all time. Since its founding, Tribute has earned a reputation as the source for the authentic Allman Brothers Band sound throughout the Southeast. Rigged with vintage equipment, they interpret the Allman catalog in such a way that the songs come alive again! Special guest Harvest Moon, an Atlanta based Neil Young cover band, will also make an appearance during the concert.

The third annual Summer Concert Series features bands from across the nation at the Town Green in the Town Center.

Cornhole ATL Fall League

Wednesdays, starting September 1, ending October 20.

Georgia’s largest and fastest growing cornhole league is back with more opportunities for fun! They’re back at Peachtree Corners Town Center for the fall league offering four different divisions of play to accommodate all levels. Join in for seven weeks of fun.

2021 Peachtree Corners Festival

September 18-19. Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m; Sunday: 12-5 p.m.

Annual weekend festival with arts and crafts, vendors, live music, fun, food and kids’ activities! Get the scoop on everything Peachtree Corners Festival in this issue’s full spread.

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The Forum on Peachtree Parway

Peachtree Corners Business Association Pms 350 c Pms 369 c

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

5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 theforumonpeachtree.com

PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup Second Tuesdays of the month, 8:30-9:30 a.m. August 10 and September 14.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners 30092

Get together, connect over coffee and talk about business on the second Tuesday of the month. This is an opportunity to have conversations with other PCBA members and business professionals who want to share and experience business in a positive atmosphere.

Business cards will be shared with all attendees. There is no admission cost for PCBA members and their guests.

PCBA Lunch Club

Light Up The Corners

4-Mile Glow Run, 1k Twilight Trot and Virtual Run August 14 lightupthecorners.com Light Up the Corners is a glowing, flashing, blinking, shining, nighttime running party and fundraiser in one. This event is sure to Light Up The (Peachtree) Corners and Light Up A Life! Proceeds go to benefit at-risk children and families in the community who are struggling by giving them the chance to participate in life-enhancing programs and activities at the Robert D. Fowler YMCA. A virtual race option is available for those who wish to support the event but not run it on race night, or not run it at all. There will be an option to enter your virtual race run time between August 1 and August 14; however virtual run times will not qualify for overall or age group awards. Visit lightupthecorners.com for more information and to register. Cost increases after August 12.

Atlanta Tech Park

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

Peachtree Corners Photography Club Monthly Meeting

August 12, 6:45-8:30 p.m. pcphotoclub.org The Peachtree Corners Photography Club (PCPC) is a club for people with a passion for photography and with varied skill levels to share their interests, ideas, experience and body of work. All are welcome from beginners to pros. The club meeting is free as well. Use the rear entrance at ATP. August’s meeting topic is “Smartphone Photography” presented by Amanda Gardner.

Cyber Week ATL

September 20-23.

Bringing all things Cyber together, the event will focus on different verticals each day, including FinTech, HealthTech and Manufacturing.

August 18 and September 16. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. More details available soon.

PCBA Lunch Club Members save 15% off their check during the Lunch Club event. The purpose of the PCBA Lunch Club has always been to highlight and support local restaurant members. All PCBA members are encouraged to join the club for lunch in Peachtree Corners. Every effort will be made to try to seat PCBA members in safe proximity. Register online.

Small Business Virtual Workshop — Reference Solutions for Small Business August 11, 12 p.m.

Join Gwinnett County Public Library (GCPL), Peachtree Corners Business Association, and Data Axle to learn how to use Reference Solutions, the premier research and reference tool. Find business opportunities, locate companies nationwide, view historical market trends, track down addresses and phone numbers, etc.

Passport to Paradise Charity Party — Annual PCBA Charity Event August 26, 5:30-8 p.m.

Event Registration is $30; admission includes drinks and island fare.

Advance Registration is $20 for members and $25 for guests until August 20.

Plan to join in the Festivities on PCBA’s own “Paradise Island.” PCBA is proud to raise money to support amazing local charities: ■ Norcross High School Foundation For Excellence ■ Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett, and ■ Rainbow Village.

Enjoy live music, local food and drinks, business networking, a silent auction (live now), raffle drawings, beach activities and more.

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Lionheart Theatre

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

10 College Street Norcross, GA 30071 Find tickets and more at lionhearttheatre.org.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, students and military.

107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 southwestgwinnettchamber.com

Southwest Gwinnet Chamber of Commerce (SWGC) Connect Over Coffee

Vibe Check Improv Comedy at Lionheart

Is there a better way to start your Friday morning than with coffee and conversation in the company of local business professionals? Join this networking event created to expand professional relationships, meet SWGC members and share business cards.

The meeting is held in the large meeting space behind the SWGC office at Atlanta Tech Park to allow for social distancing spacing.

Musical Comedy “Nunsense” Opens at Lionheart in September

Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. August 13, 20, 27 and September 3, 10, 17, 24.

August 6 and 7. 7:30 p.m.

Improv Comedy Troupe Vibe Check returns to Lionheart for two shows.

September 10-26. Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m.

The hilarious hit musical “Nunsense” is coming to Lionheart.

Community Events Peachtree Farm Stand

Christ the King Lutheran Church 5575 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 August 6, 7, 13, 14.

Times vary, so visit peachtreecornersga. gov for updates.

Fresh produce, inclusive jobs. Come to the Peachtree Farm Stand to buy local fruits and vegetables.

Peachtree Farm is a new nonprofit located in Peachtree Corners, with the mission to provide jobs to individuals with disabilities.

The farm stand will be located conveniently on Peachtree Parkway for anyone to come by for fresh, local produce that supports a great cause! Direct any questions to joe@peachtreefarm.org.

Beth Shalom’s Back-To-Shul event

5303 Winter’s Chapel Road, Dunwoody 30360 August 15, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

A welcome event for members and potential members to check out all that Beth Shalom has to offer, from the AlefBet Preschool to the Gilner Religious School, Judaica Gift Shop and sanctuary. Enjoy a complementary BBQ lunch, along with crafts, story time, games and music.

As there will be indoor activities, attendees are asked to please wear a mask.

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) 2021 Georgia Optimism Walk

August 28. Registration begins at 10 a.m.; walk begins at 11 a.m.

Pernoshal Park, 4575 N. Shallowford Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338 This is an important (and fun-filled!) fundraising event that offers a short non-competitive walk, family-friendly activities, sponsor tables and more! Each Optimism Walk is part of a nationwide movement to mobilize and inspire people to step up and help put an end to Parkinson’s disease. Register online at apdaparkinson.org/ community/georgia/.

From Obamacare to Medicare to BOBCARES (sm)

Now Offering Telehealth Visits

Get stronger. Move better.

Sports & performance physical therapy to get you back to what you love.

ONE-ON-ONE Treatment Sessions Accepting New Patients BOOK ONLINE at www.rx-physio.com

or call 404-857-2688 6889 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite Q Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

Emily Olson, PT, DPT, Cert. CMFA Licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy

Fall Open House is Oct 2nd!

Llama Kissing Booth 12-3 JapanFest Atlanta 2021

September 18 and 19. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097.

Be part of celebrating JapanFest’s 35th Anniversary! Enjoy live music and dance performances, martial arts and cultural workshops, Japanese food and Beer Garden, Anime Village, Japanese vendors and business booths, children’s games and much more. Tickets start at $10; children 6 and under are free. Go to japanfest.org for more info. ■

Important Dates

A BOUTIQUE STYLE GARDEN NURSERY WITH A HOME AND GIFT SHOP. 3420 Woodhill Drive Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 (behind the Peachtree Corners Chick-fil-A)

August 4

First Day of School for Gwinnett County Public Schools

September 6

Labor Day

September 7

Rosh Hashana

September 11

Patriot Day, in remembrance of those who were injured or died during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001

September 22

September Equinox

678-805-8812

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Peachtree Corners, Georgia The History of an Innovative and Remarkable City 1777-2020 Carole Townsend

ON SALE NOW

Peachtree Corners, Georgia The History of an Innovative and Remarkable City 1777-2020 The 230-page coffee table-style book is filled with photos and stories of long ago.

Use the QR code to order through the city’s online store or order through the City Online Store: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/residents/city-online-store

For more information email: info@peachtreecornersga.gov

“This book thoughtfully recounts the past and present of our community through personal narratives of the people who lived here and knew it best.” ~ Mayor Mike Mason

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

15

COVER STORY

Brothers Breaking into the Film Industry

P

eachtree Corners Kaplan brothers Michael (13) and David (11) have been acting for about six and four years respectively.

By Patrizia Winsper

16

It all began when their parents, Alan and Zhenia Kaplan thought some acting classes might help their shy kindergartener, Michael, feel more at ease socially.

Alan had enjoyed theater in high school and hoped his sons would also get bitten by the acting

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

bug so he could share his passion for the performing arts with them.

Michael took to the stage and blossomed, growing noticeably more confident. “His teacher said, “Whatever you’re doing to help him speak up more in class seems to be working. I would ask that maybe you do a little bit less of it,” Alan recounted.

Having watched his big brother dive into the craft and come out of his shell, David followed suit, locking in acting as a Kaplan family affair. peachtreecornerslife

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Hard work “This beard was brown before we started getting into acting,” Alan laughed, pointing to his graying facial hair. Juggling a full-time job as a realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International, coaching his sons and filming/submitting their auditions, Alan understandably describes life as “pretty hectic.”

Auditions can be an arduous weekly grind. Memorizing lines, rehearsing and recording auditions is not an easy undertaking. Balancing

peachtreecornerslife

Starting opposite page, left to right: David Alexander Kaplan Michael Kendall Kaplan Alan and David Alexander Kaplan Far right, top, The Resident (FOX) Ep308 Matt Czuchry, David Alexander Kaplan, Adam Stephenson Bottom, Good Day Atlanta Fox 5 Michael Kendall Kaplan & Alyse Eady (photos courtesy of Alan Kaplan)

that with busy school schedules — and never really knowing whether they’ll book something — is trying.

It requires an excellent work ethic.

“Rather than children navigating it themselves, in a healthy scenario parents should shoulder the stress,” Alan said.

There can be multiple auditions to prepare per week. They may be due the same night or the next day.

“Trying to fit everything in around the rest of life, stay ahead of them

you do it,” Michael explained. His younger brother chimed in, “By now it’s pretty easy memorizing lines.”

The brothers study their lines together. “Sometimes I do it with my mom or say it in my head and see if I can remember all my lines,” David said.

Amazed by their ability to be off book for auditions, regardless of the script size, Alan beamed.

“Michael had a table read for a lead

A striking list of co-stars marked Michael’s initial experience.

“When I was in Gifted, my first acting gig, I worked with Chris Evans, Octavia Spenser, Jenny Slate and Mckenna Grace,” Michael said. His resumé also includes eight episodes of the TV series Paradise Lost, (filmed in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana) acting alongside Nick Nolte, Barbara Hershey, Josh Hartnett and Bridget Regan.

“I just filmed The Waltons.

They’re making a 50-year anniver-

and get quality products delivered on time is always the challenge,” Alan said.

Scripts are printed, the kids do a script analysis and auditions are recorded around everyone’s schedule. After having been at work and school all day, “it’s an exercise in fortitude,” he continued.

role with ten adults. He had the entire script memorized, including the other actors’ lines of a 90-page script.”

sary of it,” Michael said. Shot in Conyers, The Waltons Homecoming will likely be released around the holidays on the CW. David has been in an episode of the TV show The Resident, two episodes of Creepshow, (a horror series similar to The Twilight Zone) an episode of MacGyver, the movie Embattled, the Lifetime movie A Sister’s Secret and the short film A Visitor.

Most recently, David complet-

Working together The Kaplans tackle script analysis and running lines as a team.

“At first it was difficult but it’s sort of like muscle memory every time

The boys’ IMDb pages Resumés, headshots and websites from which casting directors will draw, like Actors Access, must be kept up to date. So, too, does Internet Movie Database (IMDb), an online site where actors list their work. Both Michael and David have been adding to their IMDb profiles.

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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ed filming several episodes of a popular TV show on a major streaming network.

“I’m not allowed to say what it is until it comes out,” David said. We should be able to catch David in this undisclosed program by early next year or sooner.

The Kaplans are helping the boys build fledgling yet noteworthy resumés which include commercials and voiceover work for MARTA, Toys “R” Us, Logitech, Cartoon Network and The Home Depot, in addition to the aforementioned bodies of work.

actors move here to be near more work speaks to the market,” Alan said.

Previously, leading roles were generally cast out of LA. Secondary roles were drawn from regional markets; those were the auditions you’d see coming through Georgia.

Recently, more lead roles are getting cast here.

Living in the Atlanta area is a wonderful advantage for actors.

“We love Peachtree Corners for a litany of reasons — aside from the acting part of it — including its central location. If projects are filmed in metro Atlanta, we can easily get to them,” Alan said.

“On a national level, Atlanta TV and film actors have a leg up,” he added. “With COVID, the other markets went to taped auditions as well, but actors in Atlanta have years of experience with taped auditions and Zoom callbacks.”

On location

Auditions and callbacks

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Top down, Paradise Lost TV Series: Michael Kendall Kaplan & Nick Nolte Creepshow Season 1: Tom Savini & David Alexander Kaplan Paradise Lost behind the scenes with Michael Kendall Kaplan & Josh Hartnett

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Child actors and their families must be flexible. Traveling for work brings everything else to a grinding halt. Michael filming Paradise Lost in Louisiana meant a three-month absence from work for Alan, who accompanied him, although he was able to work remotely.

Meanwhile, an overseas family trip to visit Zhenia’s parents became a trip for two only. Michael views this aspect of the business as “a small hiccup.”

David looks on the bright side too. “We were all going to go on vacation, but just me and my mom went,” he said. “We were both having fun. Michael and my dad were filming and me and my mom were on vacation.”

Michael likes working on location in different areas so he can experience “wildlife instead of fake life.” David said he prefers working in a studio: “If it’s an outside scene it’s usually either really hot or really cold. You may be filming a winter scene in the heat of the day.”

According to Alan, Georgia leads the film industry in terms of number of productions. “Georgia opened up much quicker than Los Angeles and other markets. The fact that

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Michael divulged the family’s position on auditions. “Our job is to keep auditioning. We give something and shouldn’t expect anything back.

“The director, casting director, some of the producers and executive producers ask us different questions, press “record meeting” and run the scene with us,” he said.

“Then they give us some critiques and we do it again.”

David added, “Each take gets better as we get more direction. Every audition, we get better and better.”

Commercial auditions were once typically held at the casting director’s office. Fortunately for actors, those also are recorded from home now. “I can’t imagine having them audition that way. I remember driving them to auditions. I don’t have time now, I don’t know how I would fit that in,” Alan said.

The down side Most auditions result in rejection. “Thousands of kids audition.

A couple hundred come back for the callback, then there’s another callback,” David explained. “It’s a long process.”

Alan and Zhenia stated that the audition is where their kids’ job stops. “Every now and then, you’ll get a random phone call that you booked something. That’s the great surprise,” Alan said. “But we turn off the camera from the audition and we don’t look back. That works 90% of the time. I’m sure that’ll get more difficult as they get older and become more aware of those things.”

The parents shield the boys

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from the unease and letdown they themselves feel. “When they get into the final consideration for a role, my nerves get the best of me.

There’s a lot of hope, worry and disappointment when it doesn’t work out,” Alan said.

As a family, they believe ‘you book the roles that are meant for you.’

Regarding his experience in Paradise Lost, Michael said, “It was very scary because they booked me off tape. My dad and I worried that I might not fit the role they were looking for, but it all worked out.”

Alan recalled, “We showed up on set in Louisiana, excited that he got this job, but they had never seen him in person with the kid who played his brother. That kid’s mother and I were a nervous wreck.

What if they didn’t like them? After they shot the first scene, the writer turned around, smiled and introduced himself. Then we knew we were going to be OK.” After all the unknowns, even once a role is landed, “you still have to wait and see what makes it off the cutting room floor,” Alan said.

Behind the scenes The brothers shared some of the movie magic they’ve seen.

“They use a lot of green screens, paper backgrounds for landscapes.

Sometimes they use mini models,” David said. “They use harnesses and fishing wire if someone with special powers throws someone or if there’s an explosion and someone gets knocked back.”

“They can do different lighting if it’s supposed to be day or night,” Michael added. “They mainly do everything on set, so they build a house with most of the rooms not finished. They can make a whole backdrop of woods or beachside. It’s very cool.”

“Getting a scene filmed can require a few takes or 20. They have to take different shots from different angles. That takes a lot of time,” Michael said. David noted that it could take from an hour to a couple of days to get one scene done.

“Usually kids don’t get much makeup,” David added, “unless they have a pimple to cover. It depends on whether it’s a bloody scene or anything like that.” Michael had about 20 minutes of make-up for one scene in Paradise Lost to create bug bites on his neck.

School work Young actors must keep up with their studies while they work. Onset teachers are provided to that

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end. During his most recent job, which demanded over two months of filming, David had an on-set teacher.

“It was pretty simple because all my schoolwork was online. They basically supervised us and helped us with any problems,” he said. “It was a bit challenging before COVID, but with COVID, since I was doing online school, it’s very easy, like doing it at home.”

Feet on the ground Fame could easily cause a minor’s sense of self to swell. To stave that off, the key quality stressed by the Kaplans is respect. It carries through their faith, who they are as a family and manifests in how they treat others.

When Michael’s schoolmates started asking him for his autograph because he had become “famous,” his parents told both kids they should reply, “I’d be happy to give you my autograph if you give me yours.”

Alan and Zhenia decided that if the ego ever comes into play and overcomes who they are, then it’s time to move on. “The greatest benefit of any attention they may get from acting is the opportunity to use it for good and to reach out to others, not to feed our own egos,” Alan said.

They emphasize the skill of acting, not the celebrity. “The boys

started out in theater before they ever had an agent or booked a commercial,” Alan said. “We gravitate towards drama and horror, something that really taps into the art of acting.”

David said his favorite part is meeting new people and having the experience,“but mostly the Craft Services, which is the food on set.

They have someone cooking the food right there. And they have a snack bar with chips and candy — anything you can think of.”

Michael added, “I remember

they were making lobster on set once. It was really good.”

A bright spot for the Kaplans has been watching how their sons genuinely care for one another.

“The beauty of these two souls… when one brother finds out the other booked something, he’s almost more excited than if he had booked it himself,” Alan said. “There is no competitiveness between them.

They are truly supportive of each other, which is nice to see.” ■

How to Break into Show Biz

The Kaplan family is pleased to share advice with others who are contemplating the same path. “It’s learn-as-you-go,” Alan said. “You reach out to people who have already been there for guidance and reach back to those starting out to try to pass it along.”

Acting lessons “Get your child into some acting classes. See if it’s their thing,” Alan continued. “If that’s the case, stay with it. Submit them to agencies if you want them to pursue

it further. It may take long to get picked up by a good agent.”

He also mentioned that parents should beware. “There are a lot of pitfalls out there. Go with a reputable agency if you’re seeking representation. Representation should never cost you anything upfront.”

Regardless of which acting school you choose – there are a variety to fit every preference – Alan suggested searching for a local school associated with credible casting directors. Specifically, one with lessons culminating in a showcase where actors perform before those casting directors.

After taking various acting classes, the Kaplan boys are thriving with help from their parents and a private coach who sometimes films auditions with them.

“We just try to become the character,” Michael said.

“Roll with it,” added David, who occasionally practices in the mir-

Left to right, Creepshow Season Greg Nicotero (Walking Dead Series Producer) & David Alexander Kaplan Michael Kendall Kaplan & Barbara Hershey (co-starred with Bette Midler in Beaches) Lifetime TV Movie “A Sister’s Secret” Paula Abdul & David Alexander Kaplan

ror. They work on the scripts, emotions, realism and on becoming more natural in their portrayals.

Headshots and audition set up Aspiring actors need promotional pictures. Seasoned agencies can recommend skilled photographers. Depending on the number of looks captured, photos can start at a few hundred dollars. It’s not exactly a snap to keep headshots current as children grow up, but it is worth the investment as these are the first impressions made on casting directors.

A decent video camera with a memory card from Best Buy, a tripod, lighting and a backdrop ordered from Amazon are all that’s needed to film auditions from home. Alan said he has found that easier than trying to clear enough iPhone memory.

continued on page 20

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Get Connected The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is a more than a place to network...it’s a place to belong! The SWGC is a catalyst for businesses, organizations, and cities to work together, network, and positively impact our communities.

Continued from page 19

Advice on agents After a few twists and turns in the road, Michael and David are currently both represented by Joy Pervis at J Pervis Talent Agency near Peachtree Corners.

“I could not have hoped for better. They’ve been phenomenal,” Alan said. “They keep the boys extremely busy with auditions.

They’re good people and great with kids. They’re nationally wellknown and highly respected.”

While some agents will take

an agent. Actors will net less to pay both, but if a manager can open doors previously unavailable, it’s worth it.

“Their job is to use their contacts to get you additional work, to promote you behind the scenes both pre-consideration and post-consideration, particularly when it’s between you and a few other kids. Managers make calls to get you the best consideration possible for a project,” Alan elaborated.

Choose an upcoming opportunity where you can learn more about what it’s like to be part of the SWGC! Join us each month for breakfast, networking, and a special guest speaker

August 6 Nicole Love Hendrickson Chairwoman, Gwinnett Co. Board of Commissioners

September 10 Mark Butler

GA Department of Labor Commissioner

October 1 Lee Thomas

Georgia Deputy Commissioner Film, Music & Digital Entertainment

EACH FRIDAY at 8:30 am (Except First Fridays)

Members & non-members are invited—businesses, non-profits, and community leaders—for networking over FREE coffee!

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www.southwestgwinnettchamber.com

20

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Paradise Lost: Michael Kendall Kaplan & Shane McRae (from Sneaky Pete)

advantage of aspiring actors by demanding they pay to play, they should only get compensated when an actor is booked for a job they found. Alan wants parents to avoid such pitfalls.

“Agents work hard to find auditions that are a good fit. Our job is to prepare the kids, have them do the best they can and send the recorded audition in quickly,” Alan explained.

“The agent sends it to the casting director,” David added.

When the boys book a job, the agents get a percentage of what they earn. This is agreed upon up front and is consistent across projects. “Their job is to negotiate the terms on your behalf when you book something and try to get the best deal for you,” Alan said.

Find a manager More recently, the Kaplans brought on Child Actor Manager, Wendi Green of Atlas Artists in Los Angeles. “She gives us a lot of auditions in LA,” David said.

“We brought her on to advocate for them and get them some additional exposure in that market,” Alan said. “Our agent helped identify a few managers that were good prospects. We interviewed them, vice versa, and selected Wendi.”

The same type of contract is drawn up with a manager as with peachtreecornerslife

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Setting up lifelong lessons Alan advises setting the tone and expectation with children upfront, and encouraging them to hang in. He also recommends consulting a trusted acquaintance with experience in the business when something seems too good to be true. “It’s probably not a real Disney audition after a $500 weekend class,” he said. Steer clear!

Sometimes it helps to be reminded why the family is going to such lengths. “When I’m ready to give up because I see how hard they’re working and something may not have hit for a while, that’s when they book something great,” Alan said. The boys have never expressed a desire to quit although Alan checks in with them on occasion to make sure.

Learning the value of persevering will serve them well throughout their lifetimes.

“Just be natural, be yourself.

Never give up because if you give up, you’ll never book something,” David advised. “We film an audition and move on. If we get a callback, great. If we don’t get it, great.”

The Kaplans assure others that it’s a numbers game. If you keep doing it, eventually you’ll book something — that’s the reward. ■

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BUSINESS

The Karate Kids

T

he students at Taido Karate Dojo in Peachtree Corners get to live every 80’s kid’s fantasy. They get to learn the patience and discipline of the ancient art of karate from a real-life Mr. Miyagi.

Ever since Mitsunobu Uchida was in grade school, he had a dream to one day move to America and teach karate. He knew that

By Kris Bird

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Americans loved organized sports, and karate not only gives you a great aerobic workout, but it also teaches you discipline unlike any other.

His father told him that he should move to Georgia, because the climate there is very similar to the one in Japan. So, in 1970, Mitsunobu moved to America to attend college in Nebraska, and eventually settled in Georgia — the land of “Gone with the Wind.”

Mitsunobu fulfilled his lifelong dream in 1975 by opening his first dojo in Doraville, Ga. Then in 1986,

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

the dojo moved its location to Peachtree Corners, where today it stands on Spalding Drive as the most popular dojo in the Atlanta area.

Over 40 years later, two of his sons now help him run Taido Karate, bringing the words “family business” to a whole new level. Mitsunobu still serves as the Grand Master, with his son Mitsuaki as the General Manager, and his other

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Left, left to right, Brendan Dumont, Mitsuaki Uchida, Mitsunobu Uchida and Musashi Uchida Top, Stepa Kolkov Above, Connor Kenworthy

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Clockwise, starting from top left, Jennifer Brown, Mitsunobu Uchida, Mitsuaki Uchida, Musashi Uchida, Brendan Dumont, and Taido Karate students with their teachers

gymnastic skills in front of the cheerleaders. “We would walk into the gymnasium where they were holding practice, and just bust out a roundoff,” he said. “They would be so impressed, and that’s when we would tell them that so much of karate is similar to gymnastics.”

Taido Karate now boasts three generations of students. There are those who learned under the tutelage of Mitsuaki’s grandfather, then his father, Grandmaster Mitsunobu — and now even Mitsuaki is teaching the children or grandchildren of those same students!

The dojo has truly become a pillar in the community of Peachtree Corners, and they say that their favorite part about America is how diverse and wonderful the people are, especially the city of Peachtree Corners. “I think people feel comfortable with being a part of something run by an interracial family [half Japanese, half American],” Mitsuaki said. “We never pushed to be diverse because we never needed to.”

Now Mitsuaki notices whenever there is a Muslim or Jewish holiday, because large chunks of the class will suddenly be missing.

Taido is truly a melting pot of the American dream, where all races and nationalities can come together and learn all the fulfillment that karate can give. He jokes that there was a surge in students after the famous 1984 flick, but the biggest drop in attendance they have seen was during the pandemic.

Meeting the pandemic head on

son, Musashi, as the Assistant Manager. Not to mention Brendan Dumont, a 5th degree black belt who has been the Head Instructor at Taido for so long that he feels like family.

Family extends into community The Uchida family growing up in Peachtree Corners was not only a great influence on the commu-

nity, but it made for an interesting childhood worthy of any box office screen. Mitsunobu never taught anyone to wax on, wax off, but he was once quoted saying “it’s raining dogs and cats outside.”

And did we mention that all of his four sons are black belts? The boys each attended Pickneyville Norcross High School where his son Mitsuaki has fond memories of being able to show off his

Before COVID-19, Taido Karate had over 400 students in attendance; within a few weeks, that number dropped to zero. So, with some quick thinking, they switched the entire program to 100% online Zoom classes for April and May of 2020. “We received an overwhelming amount of support from the community, and so many wonderful emails from parents during that time.”

The parents of the Taido Dojo

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Peachtree Corners Pride Gear

were extremely grateful that the Uchida family kept classes running for the kids and gave them something to do at a time when parents were going nuts.

Then in June of 2020, the dojo decided to reopen their in-person classes and combine them with the online sessions. Mitsuaki recalls that confusing time in the dojo’s history, “It reached the point where there was so much information out there, you could literally go online and find whatever you wanted to support your theory, so we decided to do what made sense for us.”

They kept the students six feet apart, allowed them to decide whether or not they wanted to wear masks, and over a year later they have a record of zero reported cases of COVID in the Taido dojo.

Currently, the Zoom class has been completely phased out, because almost the entire roster has decided to come back for in-person training with the Uchida family. But while the class size has returned to normal, they are still waiting for churches to open up — that’s where they hold competitions — so students can return to competing in tournaments.

Champions here and in Japan

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

While there are some similarities between the Kaido Karate dojo and that famous tournament movie scene, there is one thing that Daniel LaRusso never got to do, and that is compete in in a worldwide tournament in Japan.

Every four years, the students of Taido Karate get the honor of traveling to Japan with their families to compete in worldwide Karate championships. Just like a mini version of the Olympics, the International Friendship Tournament switches off with the Jappeachtreecornerslife

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anese team, and every two years they come to America to compete, while the other two, the American team comes to them.

A total of 90 American students, plus their parents, travel together in a skillfully coordinated journey planned by Mitsuaki himself.

Among many hurdles to overcome, he jokes that the hardest part of planning a trip that large was navigating the train system in Japan.

“It was like the Titanic,” he said.

“The trains in Japan only stop for 60 seconds and that’s all you have to get 100+ people on board with their luggage. So we would have women and children enter one car while the men would throw all of the luggage into another car. It was crazy, but fun!”

The best part about the students getting to tour the country with a real Japanese tour guide, is that they get to experience the culture firsthand. One of the black belt students even ended up loving Japan so much that he moved there and is still living there today with his Japanese wife.

Mitsuaki boasts that they even won the Championships once while in Japan, and it was a great moment for the Taido team. The last tournament got cancelled three days beforehand due to COVID, and Mitsuaki has had all the trophies packed away ever since.

The Taido Karate family and their many students are eager to get back to competing in tournaments, including the World Taido Championships that will compete in Japan and Europe as soon as they receive the go-ahead.

Even if you’re not a Karate fan, you can surely appreciate the family legacy that the Uchida family has brought to so many generations of Peachtree Corners residents. ■

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A Risk and Hard Work Lead to Sweet Success

What started out as a search for a part-time job turned into Peachtree Corners resident Diana Hsieh becoming the co-owner of The Chocolaterie at just 27 years old.

The Chocolaterie is an artisan chocolate shop located in the oldest remaining building on Main Street in Historic Downtown Duluth. It has a beautiful assort-

By Rena Williams

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ment of luxury chocolates, gourmet ice cream, handmade fudge and unique gifts.

Humble beginnings Diana was just two years old when her parents moved to Atlanta from Vietnam. When her family arrived, they moved into a one-bedroom apartment across from Turner Field and her father worked two jobs to support them.

“Growing up, I fell into the trap of the Asian stereotype and believed that in order to be successful

Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

in my parent’s eyes, I had to become a doctor, lawyer or engineer,” she said. Her parents fought to make it to America and worked extremely hard to raise her and her brothers.

She didn’t want to disappoint them.

Over time, she realized that her parents didn’t have those expectations at all. They just wanted her to be happy and successful.

Finding her way In 2015, Diana graduated from the University of Georgia, where she majored in Public Health and Sociology. “The plan after college was to get my Master’s in Public Health and go into disaster management,” she said. “I was frustratpeachtreecornerslife

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Above left to right, co-owner Nancy Rangel, Ally Fowler, manager and co-owner Diana Hsieh.

Opposite page, the owners stand in front of a custom mural of some of their great chocolates (pictured below mural) Coned ice cream

ed with not finding a job in my field since the positions I was interested in required years of experience.”

Because of this, Diana had to move back home with her parents.

“I was pretty disappointed with myself,” she explained. “I really thought that I wasn’t where I was supposed to be. I watched all my friends moving on with their lives and I thought that I should be

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doing that too. But instead, I felt like I was going backwards. I felt as if, at that point in my life, I should be done with having my parents help support me. I wanted to be out on my own and not depending on someone.”

Over the next couple of years, Diana bounced around to more jobs, got married and she and her husband Calvin bought their first home in Peachtree Corners.

“We kind of stumbled upon the home and knew it was more than what we could afford and bigger than what we were looking for at the time, but it was a great deal,” she said. To help them, Diana’s parents gave them money for their down payment and Calvin’s parents matched the gift.

Pathway to destiny Once settled into her home, Diana began looking for another part-time job since she had just enrolled in Kennesaw State University to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. She saw a post on Facebook that The Chocolaterie was hiring.

“I applied and got the job. Right when I was hired, the owners, Mike and Elizabeth Ashworth, made it clear that they were looking for someone to take over the store.”

Diana saw people coming often to meet with the owners, but they were never a good fit. “Everyone was interested in the store for its prominent location,” she recounted.

“However, they didn’t want to keep the chocolate business.”

One day, when Diana and Elizabeth were working in the store together, Diana said, “Elizabeth casually asked me what I thought about buying the store. I was surprised by the question, but told Elizabeth I would give it some thought.”

Over the next month, Diana thought hard about the opportunity. After going back and forth with the idea and trying to convince herself that she could take on this challenge, Diana’s brother told her, “It sounds like you already made your decision, I don’t know why you’re doubting yourself.” That’s when Diana finally decided that she was ready.

The tme is now After Diana made the decision that she wanted to be the next owner of The Chocolaterie, she

approached the store’s manager, Nancy Rangel, about partnering with her on the opportunity. “I was super nervous bringing it up to her,” Diana said. “I knew there was a chance that she wouldn’t go in on this with me, which is fair because I was asking her to make a big commitment.”

Nancy told Diana she would think about it and get back to her.

“That took a couple weeks, but once she got everything in order, we had lunch at Fox Brothers where she told me she’d love to do this with me.”

Diana and Nancy went back to Mike and Elizabeth to let them know they wanted to buy The Chocolaterie, and their parents helped them with the capital to purchase the store. “From there, we really hit the ground running,” stated Diana. “We had lunch in March and by April, we were incorporated and got all of our licenses in order.

By the end of June, we were final-

izing everything and took over the store on July 1, 2018.”

Never give up After a little over a year of getting up to speed on the business and finally getting in their groove, COVID-19 hit and forced Diana and Nancy to temporarily close the store for in-store shopping for almost four months.

“It was so stressful,” said Diana.

“Everything happened so fast during the shutdown there was almost no time to think; it was just do.”

Diana was worried about how they were going to continue paying their staff because they didn’t want

to lay anyone off. “We continued to have them at the store taking the phone in and online orders while Nancy and I worked on getting a PPP loan and figuring out how we could convert the store to allow for in store shopping again,” she said.

“Shutting down the store was just not an option. It never crossed my mind during the shutdown that we weren’t going make it through this somehow. The store was my livelihood, Nancy’s livelihood. I just knew I didn’t want to fall back on depending on someone to take care of me again.”

Now, Diana can’t help but reflect on the challenges she endured to get her to where she is. When asked about her decision to buy the store, Diana said, “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I learned so much in the short time that I’ve had this store. I obviously learned a lot about the business side of things and how to manage and operate a business. But I also learned a lot about myself. About how much I could achieve once I got over the idea of doing things because I thought it was expected of me, to doing things that I wanted,” she said.

“To this day, I still think I’m crazy for buying the store but I’m forever grateful that Mike and Elizabeth, my parents and Nancy believed in me.”

Diana finding her own path and purchasing the store changed her relationship with her parents.

“It brought a deeper understanding of what they wanted for me all along,” she said. “To be happy and successful no matter what it was that brought that success.”

After the initial experience of being frustrated and unsure of her career trajectory, purchasing The Chocolaterie gave Diana the confidence boost she needed. “I feel that the business is going to be just fine.

I feel like, after dealing with COVID, I can handle anything that comes my way.” ■

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Peachtree Farm and Why It Is Important learn how to work,” he continued, “and [we’ll] l teach them what a job is.”

Construction for the farm begins this summer, and Twiner affirmed that, “all the funds necessary are in the bank to complete the Phase One greenhouse, so we’re going to start construction with all necessary assets in place.”

However, Peachtree Farm will still need help from local sponsors as they continue their development.

The first phase of Peachtree Farm will be a 120-foot greenhouse, along with bee apiaries that will pollinate produce and vegetation around the farm. Their Construction begins this summer for the integrative and inclusive Peachtree Farm. Peachtree Farm will serve as a community initiative to provide high ranking jobs for adults with disabilities and service opportunities for the Peachtree community.

Founder Mike Twiner has been involved with the Georgia special needs community for nearly 20 years as his daughter, Qwen Twiner, has special needs.

Twiner has worked with several special needs charities throughout Georgia, and even chaired the special Olympics of Georgia.

Twiner reflected on the concerns of all parents with disabled children: “What is our child going to do when they graduate from high school that’s productive and meaningful? Where are they going to live that’s safe [where I can feel comfortable with leaving them]?

Who’s going to take care of them when I’m gone?”

In order to alleviate these con-

By Khariss Bender

28

cerns and build hope and better connections in the Peachtree community, Twiner created Peachtree Farm as “a result of that need [and] a community effort to solve these three problems.” These valid concerns are what inspired Peachtree Farm to provide high ranking jobs for adults with disabilities, and on-site homes with caregivers who will ensure the health of the disabled employees.

The farm will also be a beacon of unity and provide community volunteers with the opportunity to serve and interact with adults who have disabilities.

With hopes for improved interactions between abled and disabled individuals, Twiner believes “the more you interact with people with special needs, the more comfortable you’ll both feel around each other.”

Looking back at the grand scope of mistreatment and oppression of adults with disabilities over the past 60 years, there has been a plethora of initiatives to ensure the abled can gain a better understanding of disabled people (and vice-versa). For instance, family shows such as Sesame Street have been long known for educating all people on the importance of comprehensive discussions

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

revolving around disabilities. Specifically, their See Amazing in All Children initiative introduced an autistic four-year old girl, Julia.

Efforts such as this capture the genuine essence of how important it is to communicate and form relationships with people in the disabled community. To ensure these healthy connections are made, “The Peachtree Farm’s operations will be led by adults with disabilities,” Twiner said.

For the community, Peachtree Farm will also employ adults without disabilities and local high school students “so that they can

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apiaries will also serve as a public art project, where local artists will be able to come and paint bee boxes that will be displayed at the apiary. They also project to have a commercial kitchen, office building, warehouse, 15 residential houses for the adults with disabilities, a barn, a service dog training area and a farm animal area.

Sustainable Crops As a viable part of their greenhouses, Peachtree Farm aims to produce approximately 28,000 lbs.

peachtreecornerslife

Opposite page, rendering of the Peachtree Farm development Mary and Mike Twiner, Founders This page top down, Claude Schneider and Quinn Twiner, Board Member and employee Kevin Mackey, employee Recent weekend farm stand, left to right, Joey Newton, Mike Twiner, Avery Copenhaver, Quinn Twiner, Mary Twiner, Kevin Mackey

Farm recognizes that the U.S. agricultural emissions totaled up to roughly 629 million metric tons in recent years. To reduce their carbon footprint, Peachtree Farm is exclusive to local restaurants and aims to have only local partners once their greenhouses are up and running.

“We are the ultimate greenhouse. We produce food with a very low carbon footprint,” Twiner said. “There’s no electricity being used, other than for the lights, but all of our products are being recycled [and] put back into the environment.”

The Future of Peachtree Farm During Phase One of develop-

/ 14 tons of tomatoes per greenhouse, year-round, along with several other plants that will be sold at their on-site farm stand.

Peachtree Farm’s primary means of producing their tomatoes will be through hydroponic farming and automatic fertilization. Hydroponic farming is truly what will allow the Peachtree Farm to stand apart from their competitors, as their greenhouses allow them to avoid artificial ripening during the winter months.

Twiner’s son, Joe Twiner remarked, “hydroponic tomatoes are on the vine until they’re picked and sold, and so they taste like fresh summer tomatoes in January.”

The greenhouse will hold 72 grow stations, and the grow station is a “bato bucket,” a large

plastic tub full of percolate, a lightweight grow material that the plant roots will grow in. With the help of timed lights, the tomatoes will be automatically fertilized, and water will be applied to them on a regular basis.

Following the fertilization process, Twiner highlighted that “it’s [all] a closed system so we’re not wasting any water, [and] we’re not wasting any nutrients.”

“Everything on this farm will be for sale,” he added.

In addition, the rest of the greenhouse and outdoor space will be used for community gardens and outdoor crops, such as shrubbery, oak trees, Japanese maples and other commercially viable crops.

With issues such as climate change on the rise, Peachtree

ment, they will build small 3- and 4-bedroom cottages with enough room for two adults with disabilities and a caretaker, or three adults with disabilities who may need minor support. “We hope to create 10 jobs for adults with disabilities, and a lot more after that. Our staff will mostly be one full-time employee and community volunteers that will aid with all other aspects of the farm,” Twiner added.

He finally expressed the need for community involvement.

“Without the [help of] the community, this project won’t be successful, and so we’ll need volunteers to help with all aspects of the farm.”

In the next two years, Peachtree Farm is projected to be self-sustaining and contain completed greenhouses, residential homes for employees and an office building, along with a full-time staff. It will accomplish all of this while upholding its role as an establishment built for integration and inclusion for all.

Go to peachtreefarm.org to learn more about the farm and how you can help it achieve its mission. ■

Expires Sept. 30, 2021

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

29

Be Your Own Boss On Our Winning Team

Electrifying Peachtree Corners: City Offering Community Incentives on EV Chargers This year is turning into a pivotal one for electric vehicle (EV) sales as numbers of EVs sold have increased substantially over previous years.

For Peachtree Corners residents and business owners in the market for an EV, it also means researching and deciding among the myriad of choices of EV chargers, which can be overwhelming.

To assist the community, a dedicated website, Electrifying Peachtree Corners, has been developed to provide a guide through charging solution questionnaires and resources to help understand and evaluate EV charging choices. The new website, ptccharging.com, offers special charging solutions that are only available to its residents and businesses.

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For the average first-time EV owners, plugging in to a charger seems simple enough, but not all chargers are equal.

Some chargers can be installed simply by plugging into a standard wall outlet, while others require a custom installation.

Then there is the question of speed.

How quickly will you need to charge your vehicle — overnight, within a few hours or within minutes?

For business owners wading into the EV world, there are even more questions. Will the EV charging stations be used to charge an EV fleet for business use, to support employees and to attract customers? Choosing the best EV charging station for business use can be a formidable undertaking.

To understand and analyze the maze of information on EV charging stations, Peachtree Corners city leaders worked with Hubject, an international company promoting emission-free mobility, to issue a request for proposals from electric vehicle supply equipment manufacturers.

Through this proposal, the city received responses from 23 electric vehicle charging companies from across the globe.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

The city and Hubject are now able to offer useful information and discounted pricing on charging infrastructure via a dedicated website for its residents and businesses. “Electric vehicle charging is an important aspect of EV ownership,” said Assistant City Manager Brandon Branham. “The website provides a guide with step-by-step guides that cover all key issues for both residential and business use.”

Recognizing the continued popularity of electric vehicles, last fall the city introduced its 16-vehicle charging plaza located at the Town Center.

The plaza is the second largest in the state with 12 Tesla V3 Superchargers, two 350 kW chargers and two 15 kW chargers.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this information to our residents and businesses,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “We continue to strive to live up to the city’s tagline, ‘Innovative and Remarkable’ by offering beneficial technology solutions and opportunities.”

Local residents and businesses can learn more at ptccharging.com. ■ peachtreecornerslife

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Soliant Continues Expansion in Peachtree Corners

2021 Summer Internship Program (Facebook Page)

Soliant, a leading provider of specialized healthcare and education staffing services to hospitals and schools around the nation, is growing in Peachtree Corners. Soliant recently expanded their Peachtree Corners headquarters at 5550 Peachtree Parkway by 25,000 square feet, bringing the total to 83,000 square feet.

In 2020 ,the company announced the relocation of its national headquarters to a 58,000-square-foot space in Peachtree Corners. The majority of new job opportunities now open to applicants will be focused on education and healthcare recruiting. Soliant will employ more than 600 people once this expansion is complete. ■

venues with equipment and providing filmmakers with XR film capability.

Music Matters Productions (MMP) in Peachtree Corners pivoted from pandemic hardship into a new division. When live events sank in the wake of the spreading coronavirus, MMP took a different tack. The company, which had just signed a lease for 40,000 square feet of space on Green Point Parkway, began creating “live” environments within its studio with the help the Unreal Engine.

With no events to produce in 2020, the company experimented with the Unreal Engine software, typically used in video game environments, to create XR scenes and environments to help clients create innovative content. The company began using it to produce films, music videos and commercials for clients who couldn’t perform for live audiences, all within its XR studio.

MMP sold a six-episode show to Apple Music and created a piece for Jimmy Fallon. Thus, its newest division was launched. Now, the company’s founder and visual designer, Aaron Soriero, is planning to expand in Salt Lake City and Nashville.

“It has been fun to expand our horizons and services, while staying fully in our lane of capabilities,” said Soriero. “Having the ability to shift the business into content creation and to have the opportunity to own and produce our own content is invaluable.”

In addition to mobile staging and virtual event production, the company organizes drive-in events, provides live event production, creates music videos and customizes, manages, and designs projects. In short, MMP is a one-stop production shop.

MMP has created productions for the Atlanta Jazz Festival, Shaky Knees Music Festival, Sweetwater 420 Fest, the Fox Theatre, State Farm Arena and the Tabernacle, among other venues. For more information, visit musicmattersproductions.com. ■

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

31

KNOWLEDGE

Education & Experiences

Navigating Back to School in Gwinnett County In mid-July, GCPS held New Teacher Orientation to welcome our newest educators to Gwinnett.

Here we go again.

As the school year draws nigh, local administrators are having to grapple — one more time — with a school-related twist in the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and the official and public response to it.

Fortunately, more positive changes are waiting in the wings as well.

Gwinnett County Public Schools Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) has fallen into line with new Centers for Disease Control guidance issued Tuesday, July 27. The federal public health agency is now recommending that students, teachers, staff and visitors in K-12 schools universally

By Mark Woolsey

32

mask up indoors, regardless of their vaccination status.

GCPS says as a result, masks are now required for all students, all adult personnel and visitors in all school facilities and on school buses, even those who previously had been fully vaccinated.

School officials said the toughened requirement takes into consideration such factors as the rise in Gwinnett County COVID cases and that children younger than 12 are ineligible for the current menu of inoculations.

“We must do all we can to keep students in school in person,” said Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks. He added that “a layered approach is needed to keep students safe in school.”

Wilbanks said, nonetheless, it was disappointing that the year was starting with masks. In addition to the mask requirement, he’s urging those who are eligible for the vaccines, but who haven’t yet taken that step, to roll up their sleeves.

The district had gone mask-optional in June following Governor Kemp’s signing of an executive

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

order restricting public school face-covering mandates.

Additionally, GCPS spokeswoman Sloan Roach said the district continues to stress deep cleaning and disinfection practices in schools and has installed upgraded air filters in some buildings.

Gwinnett school officials said that in light of the latest curveball, they’ll allow families to decide on whether children should be in school or learn remotely through Monday, August 2. Families wanting to make a change should contact their local school. The first day of school is August 4, with a staggered start for in-person learning.

A spokeswoman for GCPS said — before the latest announcement — that 98% of their students would be physically in school come the beginning of the year.

Private schools In contrast to the county schools, private and parochial institutions serving Peachtree Corners had not announced any peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecornerslife

changes in policy resulting from the CDC’s new guidance change at press time, but indicated they were taking a close look.

Director of School Life Jimmy Chupp at Greater Atlanta Christian said that “we are reviewing mitigation strategies in light of the new recommendations and hope to have an answer soon.” Like Gwinnett, the campus had become mask-optional June 1. Chupp had said earlier that they had expected to continue that this year.

With such uncertainty present, the headmaster at Cornerstone Christian Academy said that they are still weighing options. Colin Creel said they had planned on publicizing their COVID protocols August 2. He emphasized that the school is in the process of consulting with health officials and others and hoped to have an announcement shortly.

“We’re going to stick to our plan,” he said in an email. “We’ve made some adjustments and we’ll continue to make appropriate adjustments as necessary.” Creel said that aside from the CDC recommendations, they’re still waiting for guidance from the health department, saying there’s always a chance a local mandate could be laid down.

Could the CDC change impact the number of families choosing digital learning? Chupp said in a previous interview that GAC does have a digital learning option in

continued on page 34

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continued from page 32 place, a platform so finely tuned that it virtually brings absent students into the classroom.

Parents and students will be able to choose either in-person or remote learning each day, so giving estimated numbers is difficult, he said. “That option allows for great flexibility,” Chupp added.

That theme of being nimble has been played up by other administrators.

Head of School at Wesleyan School Chris Cleveland said he thinks the lessons learned and approaches taken during the 20202021 school year will stand them in good stead.

Departing from other campuses he said — before this latest announcement — that a digital option will not be offered at Wesleyan. In an email, he had said, “We believe students need to be in school every day. Teachers are more effective, and students learn best when they are in the classroom with their peers.”

Exceptions could be made in the case of prolonged illness or multiple quarantines, he added.

Wesleyan had similarly eased its mask mandate. Cleveland could not be reached before press time to comment on what officials there may do as a result of the CDC guidance alteration.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

An altered COVID landscape isn’t the only change for the new school year. New school facilities and new policies will greet some students and their parents.

In the Gwinnett schools, procedures on visiting will be tightened up. Campus employees will start using a tool called Raptor enabling each school building to screen all adult visitors against the National Sex Offender Registry.

That will dictate a change in the sign-in process, said school officials. After visitors show up and are “buzzed in” using a bell on the visitor management panel, they’ll head to the front desk. Staffers will ask first-time adult visitors for a drivers’ license or other state-issued ID. After cross-checking visitors against the database, those who are cleared get a detailed badge with the name of the visitor, the date and the reason why the visitor’s on-campus.

A district news release indi-

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cates subsequent visitors will be screened as well.

Also new this year, more surveillance cameras are being installed in district high school stadiums. “As a district, we have a responsibility to ensure the schools are safe and secure for our students, staff and visitors,” said Al Taylor, GCPS Associate Superintendent for School Improvement and Operations in a news release.

Also new in Gwinnett this year is the opening of a School of the Arts at Central Gwinnett High School. Administrators call it a state-of-the-art facility with more than 50,000 square feet of new space, where students can delve into performing and visual arts as well as arts technology classes.

In addition, Benefield Elementary and Grayson High School added classrooms, and Berkmar High School added theater performance facilities.

Growth and changes at local private schools At Greater Atlanta Christian, Chupp said the new school year won’t bring any noticeable changes other than a shift in the structure of class schedules.

Some changes and upgrades are in the works at Wesleyan School.

Cleveland said this fall will mark the debut of the school’s newly redesigned cross-country course, the last piece of the recently developed Hoyt Family Athletic Complex.

It includes a 13,000 square-foot fieldhouse plus other amenities.

Also, growth in the school’s STEM program dictated construction of a STEM wing in their library as a temporary home for the program.

Incidentally, this year is the 25th anniversary of the first day of the school on the Peachtree Corners campus, following a 1996 move from Sandy Springs.

Students and parents at Cornerstone Christian Academy will see substantial physical changes, including demolition of the middle building and creation of a campus mall with a stage on one end. A plaza will be added on the other. A middle school plaza is also being added. ■

Watch for further changes in COVID guidance and mandates on the Peachtree Corners Magazine website.

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35

3DE Changed My Life How Former Norcross High Student Justice Zabel Turned a Business Curriculum into a Small Business Reality Far Left, Gerardo Angeles (left) and Justice Zabel (right) proudly show off the first designs for their landscaping business t-shirts.

The shirts say A-Z landscaping, though the business has since been renamed Prestige Landscaping ATL. Photos courtesy of A-Z Landscaping Instagram.

Left, A job well done by Prestige Landscaping ATL.

Practical education that works effectively in the real world proves in short supply in many public-school environments. Norcross High School (NHS) sought to equip their students with business knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit, so the 3DE by Junior Achievement program was introduced to students six years ago.

Former NHS student Justice Zabel took part in the inaugural 3DE program at Norcross, which culminated in the creation of A-Z Landscaping, since renamed Prestige Landscaping ATL. Zabel was part of the first graduating class of 3DE at Norcross, which also happened to be the

By Kelsey Asher

36

second graduating class ever for the state of Georgia.

“Essentially what 3DE did was just kind of help me to get on track,” Zabel said. “They provided us with business classes, finance classes as well as certifications.

We had to get a Microsoft Office certification, a PowerPoint Certification and a Six Sigma certification. Just all these different levels of help for being a good entrepreneur and a good business manager as well.”

In addition to managing his own business, Zabel is a rising sophomore currently pursuing a degree in Accounting at Georgia State University. He appears to be running full speed ahead with the lessons he learned in the rigorous four-year 3DE system.

“We were given a project that we had to do, to create a business idea with a business plan,” Zabel said.

With his class partner Gerardo Angeles, the “entrepreneurial jumpstart” of what is

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

now Prestige Landscaping ATL took off. Prestige has been in business for two years now and provides lawn maintenance and care, hedge trimming, pressure washing, leaf pickup and debris removal at reasonable hourly rates, depending on the job needed. Angeles now serves in active duty for the Marines, but Zabel has continued to carry the baton of this small business.

3DE is a radically different type of educational paradigm in that it takes students from their freshman year of high school to senior year and helps them to form tangible personal and business goals.

Students, like Zabel, who take part in 3DE typically commit to the full four years of the program, as each year’s instruction builds upon the next and culminates in a Senior Experience project at its conclusion. The 3DE Norcross High program is spearheaded by its Director Eric Ashley and Assistant Principal John DeCarvalho.

According to the 3DE Norcross High curriculum site, student learning in 3DE is focused on six core competencies applicable to school, career and life. These competencies consist of Creativity & Innovation, Cultural Agility, Self-Direction, Effective Collaboration, Engaging Communication

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and Critical & Analytical Thinking. Throughout their work in the first three years of the program, students complete case challenges that develop their understanding in the six core competencies.

The case challenges begin with an introduction from one of the business partners working with the 3DE program. Students then work on the problem and present their solutions. In addition, for many business partners, students are able to make a site visit to learn more about the company they are learning from. For example, a few years ago a group of Norcross students visited the Atlanta Hawks headquarters.

During the 12th grade year, students use the skills honed in 3DE to successfully navigate and perform in a professional environment. During the fall and spring semesters, teams of 3DE students work as consultants to businesses to work though larger and more complex problems with business partners or to create fledgling business ventures of their own.

The entrepreneurial spirit appears to be alive and well at Norcross High School, thanks to 3DE. For more information about 3DE at Norcross High, find the 3DE Curriculum page under the ‘Academics’ tab at gcpsk12.org/ NorcrossHS. ■

peachtreecornerslife

10th Annual Peachtree Corners Festival Returns

By Kelsey Asher

M

ark your calendars for September 18 and 19 for the 10th Annual Peachtree Corners Festival, featuring food, fun, art, music and everything in between. Hours are 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday and 12-5 p.m. Sunday.

The festival has relocated to Peachtree Corners Town Green to allow for adequate spacing and free parking. The festival is free to attend as well.

According to the team’s mission statement at peachtreecornersfestival.com, the Peachtree Corners Festival is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to bringing a safe, family-friendly festival to the city of Peachtree Corners. To the extent that the festival experiences pos-

itive cash flow, the funds will be dedicated to supporting the areas of education and beautification.

The festival brings together community leaders and civic minded individuals with the simple goal to show pride in our fair city.

Debbie Mason, “The First Lady of Peachtree Corners” (through her marriage to Mayor Mike Mason), currently serves as the festival’s Vice President. She expressed hope that even though the date and location of the festival has changed, things will be able to progress as normally as possible and should be able to do so unless anything changes with health regulations.

“We are just thrilled to be able to start it up again and people are recovered and out and about, chomping at the bit to get out,” Mason said. “And we want to help

them do that and do it safely.”

“The aspect that I enjoy the most about being a part of the festival organization is walking around the grounds while the event is going on and seeing the thousands of people out enjoying themselves with the food, music, and arts and crafts that we offer,” said Peachtree Corners Festival President Dave Huffman. “Working with the vendors is enjoyable too.

They have such great attitudes and are easy to get along with.”

The atmosphere of this year’s festival might differ slightly, partly due to its shifting into early fall and partly due to its move from The Corners Office Park to the Town Green at Peachtree Corners Town Center. The central location and popularity of the Town Green make it “a no

brainer.” Though the Town Green is approximately 20% smaller in area than the previous festival site, Huffman shared that the team is excited about the change and that they “all feel that this may very well be the best and most attended festival in our 10 years.”

That said, Huffman has had to play a bit of table Tetris, with the unenviable task of fitting square booths into a largely oval space.

That basically boils down to a more selective group of vendors and exhibitors. On the positive side, almost all activity will be concentrated in one contained space, as opposed to being stretched out over a quarter mile of road, as in years past.

MORE FESTIVAL INFORMATION ►

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

37

Music The entertainment lineup will be extensive and offers something for every taste. Music lovers can look forward to returning favorites as well as new talent.

On tap for the weekend (in no particular order): Banks and Shane — Hard-kicking, blow-the-roof off band that has had capacity crowds around the world dancing in the aisles to party favorites and reminiscing with memorable ballads. 7 p.m. Saturday at the Main Stage.

Double Take — High-energy rock ’n’ roll group playing the biggest and best rock, dance and party tunes from the ’80s...music’s greatest decade.

Stone Mountain Chorus — Vocal A Capella, a member chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. They are a show chorus and a competition chorus.

▲ Casual Cadenza — Jam band playing feel good music. ►Greg Drews and the Truth — Atlanta based songwriter Greg Drews crafts vocal driven American Roots music with an abundance of warmth and space. His songs blend the recline of California Roots Rock, harmonies of Southern Appalachian Soul and the gentle swagger of the Texas Troubadours… all echoes of time spent living in those locales.

The Dial Up — High-energy covers transport listeners back to a decade where their CD collections defined them. Join in on a musical journey of rock, grunge, pop-punk and Britpop.

Separate Checks — An Atlanta based Alt Rock/Indie Rock band.

Schools in the area will also have a dedicated block of time to allow their band, chorus or dance teams the opportunity to perform on stage.

Most, if not all, music and other performances can be viewed from the main music stage and surrounding areas. Check the festival website for updates on times and performances.

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Cars, bikes

and all that shines

Saturday, September 18 will feature a Car & Bike Show full of hot rods and sleek interiors, taking place at the Hexagon parking lot near the roundabout. It’s no charge for spectators, but on-site participants will need to pay a $15 registration fee. The most impressive choppers and roadsters will receive Top Car & Bike awards and Top Class trophies. The festivities will include featured guests and trained judges, as well as a deejay, food and door prizes.

And on Sunday, September 19, a new must-see event comes to the festival as the Atlanta Concours d’Elegance exhibits a number of high-end classic vehicles. Concours d’Elegance will be highlighting a very special ‘Sneak Peek’ of what’s to come in 2022 here in the Atlanta area — with a selection of highline classic and regional collectibles, including local resident Ivan Ruiz’s gorgeous 1952 Jaguar XK120.

Whether you consider yourself a ‘car person’ or not, there is no denying that the beauty and elegance of a rare collection of vintage or classic motor vehicles just might stop you in your tracks! They can inspire feelings of nostalgia and awe when viewing firsthand the exquisite craftsmanship that has resulted from decades of care and often exact restoration. Those are the types of automobiles found on display in famous Concours d’Elegance events worldwide, from Goodwood and Hampton Court in the UK to Pebble Beach and Amelia Island in the US. The beauty of a true Concours unites the local community with enthusiasts nationwide through the unique level of emotion and nostalgia that touches everyone’s life in some way. Enjoy this small collection exemplifying the history and artistry that is shared through these preserved and restored cars, and hopefully the Concours can share more in 2022.

Exhibitors

Get your shop on and support local business owners and artisans at the same time. The Peachtree Corners Festival has an incredible list of vendors with just about anything you might want, from aromatic offerings to unique gifts. The full vendor list can be found on the festival website but take a look at a curated sampling.

■ A Bar W Enterprises — Handmade leather purses, keychains, jewelry and more. Founded by Angela Corbin and Wesley Burt in 2017, A Bar W Enterprises has continued to grow and expand its offerings.

Angela and Wesley seek to bring attractive, practical works of art that provide a solution to our everyday, and sometimes not so everyday, needs.

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■ Geometals/Metro Décor — Creative ceramic decorative light switches.

These switch plates are more like textured tile works of art that just happen to turn the lights on! Each light switch or cabinet knob is carved and textured by hand and then gilded with metal oxides to achieve a vibrant result.

■ Glass Stone Creations — Glass Stone Creations repurposed vintage jewelry and uses a mosaic-style pattern to decorate crosses, clocks, picture frames and jewelry boxes. One of their signature creations is using old jewelry and religious medals to create unique designs on different size crosses. They also use small glass stones and other materials to decorate old windows and create faux-stained glass, making original designs of art. Clients have hung their windows above fireplaces, on porches and even

PEACHTREE CORNERS FESTIVAL MAP

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FOOD COURT

1 BEER PICNIC AREA

CAR SHOW Path to Fitness Trail

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STAGE 9

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7 6

5 4

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ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS

KIDS AREA

10 11 12

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on backyard fences to give their garden a bit of color and whimsy.

■ Little Tree Apothecary ▲ — A natural, plant-based company that crafts all natural, face, body and personal care products handcrafted in small batches with limited ingredients. Little Tree Apothecary offers a simple yet luxurious line of personal and skin care products.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Lazy Dog Uncle Jack’s Meathouse First Watch Tipsy Salon Bar Tiff’s Treats Salata Gong Cha Kremo

9 Marlow’s Tavern 10 Taqueria Tsunami 11 Pokeworks 12 Playa Bowls 13 Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen 14 Firebirds 15 Hoots 16 Zoe’s Kitchen

CMX CinéBistro Veterans Memorial Town Green EMT

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Sponsors The Peachtree Corners Festival team is thankful to its many sponsors for making this spectacular event possible. The full list of 2021 festival sponsors can be found at the sponsor page of the festival site, peachtreecornersfestival.com. Thanks to the City of Peachtree Corners for serving as Title Sponsor. And don’t forget to swing by the Peachtree Corners Magazine table because we would love to see everyone!

Calling all volunteers!

A major event of this scale cannot take place without careful planning and support from local volunteers. There are many ways to get involved, from assistance with the fan-favorite car show, to vendor setup and booth support. Please visit the volunteer page on the festival site, peachtreecornersfestival.com, for more information.

Typically, volunteers need to be 18 years of age or older, though with a parent’s permission, younger teens can join in in certain cases. All volunteers receive an official Peachtree Corners Festival t-shirt, and of course, get to take part in a now decade long tradition.

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continued from page 39 ■ Morgan Farm Books — A children’s book series in which each book is written and illustrated by local author Katie Morgan Lester, based on childhood memories of her family’s farm and the animals she grew up loving.

■ Morr_is Wood ‘N Things — Gary Morris’ small business offers more than 600 different scroll sawn creations that are available for purchase as gifts. All of the items are handmade in the US using a scroll saw.

■ Nectar of the Vine — Co-founder Dennis Hart first became involved in the food business back in 1992, when he created European Gourmet Almonds and sold maple sugar and gourmet roasted nuts with his three sons. After many years in the food industry, he and partner (now wife), Carol Nastasi, started Nectar of the Vine in 2006, because of their entrepreneurial spirits, energy and their tastes for fine foods. They wanted to provide a fun, new way for people to enjoy wine. Nectar of the Vine offers an assortment of gourmet food products, including a line of delicious wine frappés, gift kits and specialty gift baskets.

■ ◄Organix by Tay — Plantbased moisturizers, bath and foot products, which are made from clean sourced, organic and cruelty-free ingredients using their “Simple.Natural.

Effective.” method.

■ Radiant Gazelle Creations — Decorated stainless steel cups with paint, vinyl, and other materials.

Radiant Gazelle Creations has handmade epoxy tumblers, crafted one at a time. Customization is available upon request.

■ The Toonheadz — One of the best teams of caricature artists!

Founded by the top caricature artists in Atlanta, Bobby Morris and AJ Jensen. They started their adventure at some of Georgia’s biggest festivals and have moved on to preforming live caricatures for parties and events.

■ ▲Tilly + Reggie — Their candles are non-toxic and pet-safe with intended use. They are hand-poured in small batches to ensure quality and fragrant scent, created with natural soy wax, natural cotton wicks and high-quality fragrance oil. No dyes, paraffin additives or harmful phthalates are used.

■ Smack Yo Mama — Smack Yo Mama Gourmet BBQ Sauce has been in business since 1998 and offers a variety of gourmet BBQ sauces and a savory all-around dry seasoning.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Let’s eat!

Food for every set of tastebuds makes up this year’s vendor list.

Are you in the mood for a sweet frozen treat to cool down the heat?

Al a Carte Foods has you covered with ice cream and novelties — or try Tropical Smashers pineapple drinks in real pineapples, as well as 32-ounce chillers.

Is seafood your jam? Then Atlanta Seafood Company is a must-stop.

They’re cooking up catfish, shrimp and crab cakes that won’t leave you crabby.

Moe’s Original BBQ recently set up shop in town and will make a scrumptious showing at this year’s festival. Expect a little bit of everything that makes Moe’s memorable, from award-winning Bama-style pulled pork and ribs to wings and chicken smoked over hardwood and served with two unique sauces. Homemade Southern sides from recipes passed down for generations will also be available.

Don’t forget to grab some Roasted Corn from the booth that keeps it simple, with a name that shows you the bright fresh yellow goodness that will stick to your ribs and maybe even in your teeth.

And it is a festival, right? It wouldn’t be fair not to give you that fair fare. Bae Bae’s Place is the place to be for Philly steaks, Georgia boy sausage dogs, funnel cakes, corn dogs, French fries and an ever-expanding menu.

Cinnaholic, a new bakery in Peachtree Corners, will tempt you with Gourmet cinnamon rolls featuring multiple frosting and topping choices. All of their products are fresh baked and 100% vegan and Kosher, as well as dairy and lactose-free, egg-free and cholesterol-free.

For a taste a little farther away from home, The Mad Greek brings all the flavors of the Mediterranean to our backyard. The company is a family owned and operated food truck group that hit the streets in 2017.

They currently have three food trucks rolling around Atlanta yearround. With recipes passed down for generations, and a modern twist on traditional favorites, they will have you saying “Opa!” Similarly, Salvay Bistro Station is an Argentinian restaurant new to Lawrenceville and the Peachtree Corners Festival this year. Their menu is focused on empanadas with many kinds of fillings. For meat lovers, dig into ground beef, bacon, egg and cheese, bacon, chorizo or chicken.

For those who prefer meatless selections, there is fried mozzarella, vegan tofu scramble and even Dulce de Leche.

And let’s not leave out Peachy Corners Café, our local purveyor of boba bea (aka bubble tea) and coffee. For those not familiar with the Asian taste sensation that is bubble tea, stop by the café’s booth and try something new and exciting. In layman’s terms, bubble tea is a tea-based drink that originated in Taiwan in the early 1980s. It commonly consists of tea accompanied by chewy tapioca balls; however, it can be made with other toppings as well. But trying to explain what bubble tea is will pale in comparison to the experience of sipping it from an oversize straw.

In Peachtree Corners, we are proud to say diversity and fun, bold flavors are on the menu. So pick up a cup and a plate from whatever sounds good to you and chow down!

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Summer in Peachtree Corners

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njoy summertime in Peachtree Corners through the eyes of photographers from the fast-growing Peachtree Corners Photography Club. You can take a stroll through our beautiful community with images from nature and wildlife, outdoor activities and events, the colorful skies of late summer nights, and unique sights like Jones Bridge Park and Town Center. The monthly club meetings are free and welcome to everyone from beginners to pros. For more information about the club, go to their website at https://pcphotoclub.org.

Photo credit starting top and going clockwise (photographer/subject/place): Ludwig Keck, evening concert, Peachtree Corners Town Green Alfonso Caycedo, Red Cardinal, Simpsonwood Park Tracey Rice, Butterfly on Lantana, Garden in River Station Brian Walton, Lola Higgins, Peachtree Corners Bridge Appearing on the contents (page 7) Photo by Bob Chadwick, Town Green Fountain August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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This page, top left, clockwise:

Anna Niziol, Jones Bridge Park

Eric Richter, Climbing the Playground Gym

Richard Phillips, Spalding Corners Swimming Pool

Bob Walker, Jones Bridge Park from the West Bank of the Chattahoochee

Singh Vipul, Lazy Dog Summer, from the Peachtree Corners Bridge

Al Savio, Town Green fountain

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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Starting with top small photo clockwise: Brian Walton, The Birth of Colors, Yard, in Peachtree Corners Gary Beck, Peachtree Corners Town Center Jennifer Whiddon, Birds of a Feather, a yard in the North Manor neighborhood Kara Ryker, Sunset and cool evenings in Peachtree Corners, Peachtree Corners Bridge Anna Niziol, Peachtree Corners Town Center Everett Sizemore, Bloom-n-Buds, The Timbers Neighborhood David Dunagan, Summer Catch 2, Jones Bridge Park

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Light Up The Corners Races Through Town Again Light Up the Corners 2019 (Facebook Page)

Press Blend Squeeze, Trader Joe’s and Ingles.

There will be contests and prizes for the “glowiest” men, women, boys, girls and teams. Gift certificates will be awarded from many Light Up The Corners sponsors, such as Spa Sydell, Gigi’s Cupcakes and California Pizza Kitchen.

A few things to keep in mind

Coming just around the corner in The Corners is the much-anticipated Light Up The Corners Glow Run and Twilight Trot. The nighttime community race will be held Saturday, August 14.

This lighthearted fundraiser race benefiting the WHY IT MATTERS campaign for Robert D. Fowler YMCA kicked off its first year in 2012 with a couple hundred participants and rose to over 1,200 in 2019. Light Up the Corners took a hiatus last year for obvious safety concerns, but now people are lacing up their running shoes and itching to put rubber soles to pavement.

“First of all, coordinating a race of this magnitude takes the assistance of many people and the Light Up The Corners race committee is made up of some awesome volunteers who — like me — are running/fitness enthusiasts and also fans of the Fowler YMCA,” said Race Coordinator Amy Massey.

Massey served on the board of the Fowler YMCA for a decade; therefore she “understood their mission and how important their annual campaign [WHY IT MATTERS] is to achieving that mission of enriching the lives of people in the community regardless of ability to pay for their life-changing programs and services.”

Massey’s passion for running and compassion for the local community to have access to healthful resources made Light Up The Corners a serendipitous venture.

Putting together a program of this magnitude takes more than glow powder and willpower. There are many facets required to ensure a smooth and successful race day, such as soliciting sponsors to offset the costs, designing and ordering T-shirts, purchasing glow items, coordinating music, food and drink, course monitoring and ensuring the safety of participants. But like anything worth anything in life, the behindthe-scenes effort it takes to make it happens makes it that much more worthwhile.

Race and post-race info

By Kelsey Asher

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This race is a great introduction for those new to public races, as well as a unique challenge for veteran

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

runners. Festivities are divided into two main events, a 4-Mile Run and Twilight Trot 1k. This one-of-a-kind nighttime experience is less about how fast people can run or walk and more about much fun they can have!

The Forum at Peachtree Parkway is not only a proud sponsor but also serves as the location for the occasion. The course will be lined with blinking lights to illuminate the path and participants will be given glow sticks, a glow necklace and other glow bling to light up the course.

After the race, everyone is invited to stick around for the Post-Race Party, bursting with live music and free food and drink from generous sponsors: Grace 1720, Teds Montana Grill, Mojitos Bistro, Black Walnut Cafe, PokeWorks, Taqueria Tsunami,

Registration Information Online Registration can be completed through lightupthecorners. com or directly at runsignup.com Race Weekend Schedule Saturday August 14, 2021 Twilight Trot 1k (6/10 mile) Start: 8 p.m.

4 Mile Run Start: 8:30 p.m Location: The Forum on Peachtree Parkway, 5155 Peachtree Pkwy

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■ Parking is limited so race coordinators suggest walking, running or carpooling to The Forum.

If driving is necessary, please plan to park at one of the following locations: Fowler YMCA, Ingles Shopping Center, Peachtree Corners Baptist Church or Technology Business Park.

There will be some spaces in the lots in front of Moe’s/Yogurtland, and behind Trader Joe’s off Peachtree Corners Circle.

■ This is a rain or shine event; but should there be lightening or thunder in the area at the time the event or in the immediate forecast, the start may be delayed until it has passed.

■ Unfortunately, due to lack of insurance coverage for pets, dogs aren’t allowed.

■ Currently Gwinnett County does not allow road closures for this race. That said, there will be a coned-off lane for the race as well as 20 police officers and many more volunteers on the course patrolling to keep cars at a distance.

■ The cost of both the 1k run and the 4-Mile run are the same, though 1k runners also receive a t-shirt, additional glow swag, a glow toy and a finisher’s medal at the end.

So pick out a colorful neon workout shirt, throw on a pair of shorts and join in the fun! Visit the race website, lightupthecorners.com, for schedule updates and additional details. ■

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

WHY WESLEYAN?

Scan to learn more!

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Q & A: The Strong Comeback of Autumn Clark Left, Autumn Clark recently broke the discus record at Greater Atlanta Christian.

Right, Clark’s long running sport from 8th grade has been volleyball.

jury which sidelined her for a while — but not for long. She powered through her rehab and had returned stronger and more determined than ever.

Peachtree Corners Magazine (PCM) connected with Autumn to discuss her athletic commitments, her recovery process and what she’s looking forward to in her bright future.

PCM: When did you start having an interest in sports, and specifically volleyball? What drew you to that and when did you realize you had potential?

Autumn: I started Club Volleyball in the spring of my 8th grade year. I didn’t really know much about the sport besides playing it at summer camps at my school.

I knew I always liked the sport, so my friend recommended I try out at a club. I tried out for A5 Pure Volleyball Club and made a team. I knew I had potential then because A5 is the #1 ranked volleyball club in the nation, and if I can make a team at A5, I could be successful anywhere.

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utumn Clark, a student at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), is a gifted athlete who has worked tenaciously to develop her talents. More than a year ago, she suffered an in-

By Rico Figliolini

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Photos by George Hunter

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

PCM: We understand you had an injury last October while playing volleyball. What was it and how have you come out of it?

Autumn: On October 1, 2020, we were playing Mill Creek, in the fourth set of the game. I landed wrong on my left leg and instantly collapsed and passed out. The MRI showed that I tore my ACL, tore both the medial and lateral meniscus, tore my MCL and fractured my tibia. I had surgery done at Resurgence Orthopedics

by Dr. Morris, and I currently do physical therapy at Advanced

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Rehabilitation with Evan.

Now in July 2021, I’m able to play volleyball again. In my spring 2021 track season, I began to throw again for track after going to intensive physical therapy three times a week, two hours each session. I was able to place third in State AAA for discus, win my sectionals in track and break a school record, as my coach says, “with one leg.”

PCM: During that time, did you feel like recovery was going to be challenging? How did you work your way through that? How did you encourage yourself?

Autumn: I definitely didn’t fully comprehend the time commitment this injury required. I told my doctor I would be back in three months, but I was definitely wrong. I had to talk to my parents a lot about my struggles and they helped me get through it emotionally.

I encouraged myself to stay physically fit and to become better by watching volleyball and track meets on TV. I knew recovery would be challenging — and it still is. The worst part is being told that I can’t do something I used to excel at. I encourage myself to rehab and train every day so I can get back to doing the sports I love at an even higher level.

PCM: When were you finally cleared to compete and play?

Autumn: I was cleared to throw in track with a brace in late February. I got cleared to play volleyball in late July.

PCM: So now you play club and school sports? Which ones?

Autumn: I am on the Varsity Track team at GAC, the Varsity volleyball team at GAC and a club track team, Rockslingers. I also play club volleyball at A5 Pure Volleyball.

PCM: Do you have any particularly favorite memories over the past year or two that you’d like to share?

Autumn: My top three favorpeachtreecornerslife

ite memories where when my physical therapist allowed me to walk for the first time, and I started hobbling around the room singing. Second, I couldn’t walk because I had surgery right before my birthday, so my friends threw me a surprise birthday party; otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to have one. Last, when I was in a wheelchair at school, I learned how to pop a wheelie.

be looking at in making your decision?

PCM: Your busy day includes club and school sports, weight training and more. When do you have a day off? What do you do? How do you unwind?

PCM: You mentioned that you and your dad (an aerospace engineer who flies for Delta) built your own 3-D printer and a robotic arm. How did that go?

What did you end up printing?

What did you take away from that experience?

Autumn: Every day I usually have about five hours of physical activity. I take a weightlifting class at GAC and weightlift four times a week; when track is in season, I weightlift eight times a week. My days off are typically Friday and Sundays. I use that time to hang out with friends and my family at the lake. I like to unwind by walking my dogs and watching movies.

PCM: How do you handle missing out on activities with friends because of your athletic schedule?

Autumn: I don’t often have to miss hanging out with friends, but when I do, I always try to make up time with them on my days off.

PCM: Volleyball is based on individual athleticism, but also being synced with your teammates.

How is discus throwing different for you — and why discus?

Autumn: Discus is very different from volleyball because your stats speak for you, while in volleyball your skill is subjective to the viewers’ eyes. For me, discus is different because all the pressure and performance results lay on my shoulders. I started throwing discus after throwing the football with my dad in the yard. I found a knack for chucking heavy objects a long distance, so my dad recommended me to try throwing in track. I picked it up and never looked back.

PCM: When did you start that?

We understand you broke GAC’s school record?

Autumn: I started discus in 8th grade. During my third full season of the sport, I broke GAC’s school discus record, that had stood since 1980, by six feet.

PCM: Now that you’re being recruited by Ivy League schools for track and field, what will you

Autumn: I am really looking at the academic rigor and social balance available at the schools. I want a school with a school-spirited student body in a city with lots of activity going on around me. I also want to succeed in the classroom while being pushed academically and athletically to allow me to thrive.

Autumn: My dad and I built a 3D printer in the summer of 2019.

With the printer, we were able to print out parts for a robotic robot arm. It worked really well, both the printer and robot arm. From building the printer, I became interested in the art of 3D printing and did some research on bio-printing, which is the printing of human stem cells into human parts, such as ear cartilage, all from a 3D printer. I published a paper on bio-printing in a STEM magazine, Font Femme.

PCM: Academically speaking, do you want to get into Pre-med?

What’s your favorite science subject and why? And ultimately, what are your educational and career goals?

Autumn: My goal is to ultimately go Pre-med. I found my love for science in 7th grade when I dissected a frog. I was so mesmerized by the concept of anatomy that I now want to become a surgeon, possibly in cardiac or orthopedic surgery. My current favorite subject is chemistry. I love learning about what elements make up the world we live in and how we interact with them.

PCM: What is the typical “day in the life” of Autumn Clark?

Autumn: On a school day in the spring, I like to get up early and study in the library before school starts. I wake up around 6:45 a.m. and drive to school, which is about 25 minutes away. I study in the library from 7:30 until school starts at 8:30 and I head to class. I had eight classes this past year.

continued on page 48 August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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My first class was Honors Pre-Calculus, a class I really enjoyed because of the rigor and critical thinking. Second period was AP Chemistry; it was a very small class, so it was nice to talk in small groups with my classmates. We typically had labs once a week. Third period was Honors Latin. I got to take a break from the complicated English language and learn about Latin origin and history.

Fourth period was AP Language and Composition; in this class, we wrote a ton of essays. Then I’d go to lunch. Three times a week during lunch, I’d go to the athletic trainer at GAC so he could evaluate how my rehab was going for my ACL. Fifth period was AP US History; it’s a lecture-based class. Sixth period, I had a study hall, where I’d be able to knock out a lot of my homework. Seventh period was weightlifting class. I try to take this class every year to help me get stronger, and because it gives me a break to unwind during the stressful academic day and get out all my angst.

My eighth period class was my Christianity Bible class.

This class I take every year as a GAC student; it is very informational.

After school, I’d walk up to the parking lot and talk with my friends for a little bit before track practice.

Then I’d head to practice, throw for an hour and a half, then go weightlift for an hour with the team. After weights, I’d drive over to physical therapy where I’d work out for about two hours. I’d drive to club volleyball practice, which lasts until 10:30 at night, so I’d get home around 11 p.m.

Then I’d work on homework until about 1 a.m. I never stay up past 1 if I can help it, and if I couldn’t finish my homework by then, I’d wake up early and finish at the library at school. Then I’d shower and go to sleep.

A few quick questions about personal preferences PCM: What is your favorite mealtime?

Autumn: I like dinner the best, mainly because I’m able to eat with my family and talk with them

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about their day. I also like how dinner itself is so versatile and there are so many options to cook.

PCM: What is your favorite food(s)?

Autumn: My favorite foods are chocolate cake, chocolate milk, steak and guacamole.

PCM: What’s on your playlist?

Autumn: I listen both Pop and Country. I have a ton of Taylor Swift and Camilla Cabello music, as well as a lot of Brett Eldredge and Jason Aldean.

PCM: I understand you skateboard a little with your friends. Any specific move you wish you could do?

Autumn: I want to pop an Air 360.

At the moment, I can only land an Air 270.

PCM: Do you have a favorite book or movie genre?

Autumn: My favorite movie and book series is Harry Potter. I really like the action genre.

PCM: Is there anything else you’d like to share? Any advice for other student athletes?

Autumn: My fun fact is that I’m a certified scuba diver. For advice, one of the quotes I’ll always remember my coach saying is “You can teach skills, but you can’t teach work ethic.” Be the player that everyone knows works hard both in the classroom and on the court/ field. It will pay off in the long run by building up your character for you to succeed in all aspects of life, and it will get you far in whatever career you choose. ■

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COMMUNITY

Military Officer Organization Gath

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he Atlanta Area Chapter of The Military Order of the World Wars attended the first face to face gathering since the pandemic on Saturday, July 17, 2021. MOWW is one of the oldest military officer organizations in the US, which began in 1919 as a vision of “The General of the Armies,” General John J. Pershing.

The 2021 gathering was a picnic

By Linda Ebert

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Photos by Tracey Rice

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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6 entitled “Susan’s Summer Social” in remembrance of companion Susan Newman who was the Chapter Treasurer. There were 42 attendees at the event, including MOWW companions and Susan Newman’s friends and co-workers from Molnlycke, a Peachtree Corners medical supply store.

The social was held at the home and garden of Ms. Dorothy Newman, a longtime resident of Peachtree Corners, who is the Protocol Officer for the Chapter. Companions traveled from as far as Augusta, peachtreecornerslife

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Sharpsburg, Newnan, Flowery Branch, Woodstock, Mableton and Hoschton, Ga. to attend.

Many awards were presented during the ceremony.

PCINC, COL David Titus, a Past Commander in Chief; Region V CDR, SGM Mike Culbertson; Atlanta Chapter CDR, Robert Soderstrom; and Past CDR, Linda Ebert Ariff presented the various special awards, medals and Certificates of Appreciation, as well as Centennial historical keepsake coins to the committee members for peachtreecornerslife

hers at “Susan’s Summer Social”

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7 Boy Scout and ROTC/JROTC committee for work completed in 2020 and 2021. CDR Soderstrom; ADJ, M. Buck Buchanan and Treasurer, Ariff were recognized for maintaining chapter communication through various technology methods during COVID that enabled programs such as First Responder Units, Boy Scouts and JROTC to continue their roles.

Other awardees included: Dorothy Newman, Harley and Bonnie Jones, Loretta and Candra Buchanan, Lou and

4

8 Linda Ariff, Ann and Bill Tewelow, Carter Wood, Vis Kimenis, Jim Parsons and Jim Buterbaugh. Committee members not in attendance will receive awards at the September meeting in Buckhead.

The numbered commemorative Centennial keepsake coin can be purchased for $12. For more information on how to support MOWW youth programs, sponsor a student to Youth Leadership Conference and membership info, text L. Ebert at 678-663-6203. ■

9

1. Kitiya Pimparatana, Mary Martin, LaDonna Reynolds, Trudy Bedford, Rebecca Hadaway (Staff of Molnlycke Health Care) 2. Bonnie Jones, Mary Martin, Linda Wood, CAPT Carter Wood, Major Bill Coleman, Dr. Teresa Coleman 3. CAPT Harley Jones (Chapter Chaplain) giving the invocation 4. Dorothy Newman 5. LTC Vis Kimenis, Candra Buchanan, Loretta Buchanan, COL M. Buck Buchanan, CDR Robert Soderstrom

6. Mary Martin, Kitiya Pimparatana, Rebecca Hadaway, Colleen Culbertson 7. Dorothy Newman, CAPT Harley Jones, Rosemary Catanesi 8. Past CDR Linda Ebert, CDR Robert Soderstrom 9. MAJ Bruce Bonds (seated), Mike Roman, Susan Roman, CMDR Robert Soderstrom

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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1. American Flag “Cupcake Cake” 2. CAPT Bill Tewelow 3. Bonnie Jones, Ann Tewelow 4. COL David Titus, Dorothy Newman 5. Eating lunch in the back yard 6. The dining room table set with goodies 7. LTC Vis Kimenis 8. LTC Louis Ariff

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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‘Stay Positive’: Debbie Mason’s Journey with a Daunting Diagnosis

By Kelsey Asher

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Photos by Tracey Rice

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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G

ood health is something that many might take for granted, right up until the doctor sees a funny spot on an x-ray or a questionable result on a test. Peachtree Corners resident Debbie Mason probably didn’t expect to hear the dreaded six letter word (cancer) when she went in for a routine checkup last November.

After taking a CA125 blood test, some unusual results led to further inspection and the discovery of a polyp in the uterus. Determining the malignancy of this polyp involved a fair bit of supposedly routine, but nevertheless disconcerting, procedures including a dilation and curettage (D&C) and removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries that, due to age, were no longer needed. Then the news came that Debbie had a carcinosarcoma indicative of endometrial cancer.

“I can still remember exactly the words the doctor used. He said it was the worst kind of cancer a woman ever wants to be told she has. At that time, I couldn’t hardly catch my breath. I just figured I would get my affairs in order,” Debbie said.

Strong resolve for the journey Those in this community who know Debbie know that she is somewhat of a cornerstone of this young city, as the dutiful wife supporting her husband Mike Mason in his role as mayor, as well as her vital role as Vice President organizing the annual Peachtree Corners Festival. So, of course, news of this magnitude would come as a shock, to say the least.

But in typical make-do-and-mend fashion, Debbie went back into surgery in the hopes of beating the odds. A different surgeon went in and removed her uterus.

At that time, it was determined that the cancer was at Stage 1, because it had only progressed through the wall of the uterus up to 60%.

“I was grateful for it, but it would have been great if it had only been 50% because then they wouldn’t have recommended chemotherapy,” Debbie said.

The belief was that with chemotherapy and radiation, Debbie had a better chance at a good outcome. She started her first round of chemo in January and dealt with harrowing symptoms and scares, including hair loss, jaundice and liver failure.

Liver failure is a rare side effect of chemotherapy that affects less than 1% of those undergoing it, and Debbie was referred to a liver specialist who thought she might even require a trans-

plant. Luckily it never came to that, but it meant that Debbie was not able to resume chemo.

Despite this setback, Debbie trudged on. After waiting about a month for her liver values to blessedly return to some version of normalcy, Debbie began her radiation therapy. She has undergone three rounds of radiation treatments with very few side effects and is now about six months into it. Her first CAT scan came back clean, showing no signs of recurrence.

Awareness leads to early detection Debbie has been very open and honest about her journey, even sharing pictures online that illustrated the toll that her illness has taken. It is worthwhile to note that this upcoming September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and that Debbie’s awareness of her condition first became apparent because of the concern of a friend who had recently lost his mother to ovarian cancer.

It was a matter of dire importance to this friend’s mother that he compel the women in his life to get a CA125 blood test. This test is a common indicator for abnormalities related to ovarian cancer and similar cancers. So Debbie had requested the test be included in a standard physical and, as a result, doctors detected the disease much earlier than it probably would have been.

“Early detection is key. The reason why everything is so gloom and doom when you read about carcinosarcoma is women find it late,” Debbie said.

Thankful and positive Debbie made special mention of her gratitude for the thoughts and prayers of the Peachtree Corners community, adding how nice it was to have a whole city praying for her and that “there can’t be too many prayers.”

Though no one can say for sure what lies ahead, Debbie remains cautiously optimistic. When asked what advice she would give to those given a cancer diagnosis, and their loved ones who want to support them, Debbie had some wise words of encouragement.

“My advice is stay positive. Don’t act like you’re dying. Eat healthy and exercise,” she said. “I have made it a point to take all toxic things out of my life, and that has helped tremendously.” ■

Three City Mayors Discuss Post-COVID-19 iImprovement Plans Left to right, Mayors Mike Mason of Peachtree Corners, Lois Salter of Berkeley Lake and Craig Newton of Norcross.

hall, they planned to go a different route under ARPA, using the federal funds mainly for stormwater infrastructure work. She said that with the city having no stormwater fee and with a preponderance of trees and hills, stormwater costs have been significant.

Norcross Mayor Newton was less definitive than his counterparts, outlining that the city has created a 12-member advisory group to make recommendations to the mayor and council on how to allocate funds. “So, we took the easy route. We turned it over to the citizens to help us decide how to spend some of this money,” he said.

Post-pandemic issues to consider

The mayors of Peachtree Corners, Norcross and Berkeley Lake shared their thoughts on improving the communities with American Rescue Plan money A trio of Southwest Gwinnett County mayors talked about several aspects and impacts of the COVID crisis during a recent panel discussion, including how they were looking at spending money allocated to their cities as part of the American Rescue Plan

Act (ARPA).

They also focused on challenges and changes emerging from the pandemic.

Mayors Mike Mason of Peachtree Corners, Craig Newton of Norcross and Lois Salter of Berkeley Lake fielded questions during a First Friday breakfast event hosted by the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber.

Plans for the cities Mason outlined how his city created a mechanism to support small businesses with grants after Gwinnett cities received federal money under the earlier CARES act. Each qualified applicant received an allocation.

By Mark Woolsey

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Photos by Rico Figliolini

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

He noted that in addition to the grants, air filtration and other protective equipment was also tacked on at city hall.

“With the ARPA money, we’ll do more of the same,” he said. Mason also said that plans are in the works to use some of the money to beef up broadband service in what are considered underserved areas of the city. He said some may doubt that a problem exists, but that it does.

“We learned during the pandemic that kids couldn’t get schooling from home, because if someone was in the living room watching TV, there wasn’t enough broadcast left for the kid in his room. If we can fix that, we’re probably going to try to do that.”

In contrast, Berkeley Lake Mayor Salter said that after spending considerable CARES money on sanitizing efforts and an air filtration system for city peachtreecornerslife

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Addressing a related issue, Newton told the chamber audience that “we are not quite out of the woods yet on COVID,” contending that while declining case numbers and reopening businesses show that the vaccine is working, Georgia, as a state with a low vaccination rate, could be vulnerable to surges.

All three mayors agreed that the pandemic has been a longterm game changer.

Several trends are important to consider in that regard, said Mason. He called for a show of hands and got a considerable response when he asked, “How many people are still working from home instead of going back to the office? That’s a trend.”

Also, residents continue to order more goods online, in his view, and he spoke about challenges in the hospitality sector, noting that Peachtree Corners has more hotel rooms than any

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continued from page 56 other city in the county.

Mason said that with such mechanisms as Amazon readily available, people are reluctant to get into their cars unless a business is close by. To that end, he floated the idea of putting such residences as townhomes and apartments in closer proximity to commercial areas.

Newton noted that while businesses are optimistic about the long run, labor shortages and supply chain issues remain challenges in the foreground. Salter took a tack similar to Mason’s, saying that “it’s online everything” with resulting changes in the retail landscape and with jumping on a plane at Hartsfield to go out of town is giving way to a plethora of Zoom meetings.

Attracting and keeping residents The topics of affordable hous-

Above, City Councilmember and Past SWGC Chairman, Weare Gratwick and Mayor Mike Mason Right, in attendance board member Karl Barham (President at Transworld Business Advisors of Atlanta Peachtree), Joe Sawyer (owner at Alpha Omega Carpet Cleaning) and Gemayel Jean-Paul.

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ing and of serving new residents while working to hang onto existing ones also came in for discussion. “As people begin to retire, you have to be ready to replace those retirees with a new generation,” said Newton. He added that recruiting qualified people leads to an expanded and better qualified workforce, which he said attracts more business and which, nowadays, is a more important factor than location.

In one tactic, he said the city of Norcross has positioned itself to attract more younger residents by hiring an events coordinator to focus on new entertainment and event programming. He also said that the city has joined forces with a state-sponsored program called the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing. The group has come up with some potential affordable housing solutions for Norcross to be discussed in the near future, according to the mayor.

Mason took Newton’s talk of

replacing those leaving the work force with a new generation one step further, arguing for retaining retirees and their disposable income. “Do we really want to lose them to, say, Florida?” he asked.

“No, you want to keep them in your city. And they want to stay. If you don’t keep retiring citizens in your city, you’re done for.”

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

The Peachtree Corners mayor touted adaptive reuse of existing buildings as the best solution for providing more affordable housing overall, and said news of such a project may be on the horizon.

Tearing down and replacing aging apartment complexes on the city’s south side has been talked about, but Mason indicated the numbers may not work for developers.

Pointing out that her city is essentially built out, Salter said they have attracted a number of new residents nonetheless, with people tearing down existing bungalows and putting up larger residences.

She said city efforts have centered around such events as July 4th programming and in providing a children’s park and other kids’ activities to bring residents together.

She struck a similar tone when the mayors were queried about their goals. “My goal is to preserve the cohesiveness that I think has come under somewhat of a

has a little more ability to point people in a direction.”

Mason put weight on continuing “sense of place” producing efforts in the young city. He also pushed improving amenities such as walking trails, which not only can improve residents’ health but add value to homes as well, he said. He added the city also needs to continue working on both economic development and redevelopment of aging structures and that a number of alternative redevelopment strategies are being weighed.

“It’s not a simple question,” was Newton’s initial reply.

He said he’s focused on increasing economic vitality and quality of life by protecting the city’s downtown and expanded city center, which would include redevelopment and expansion to the east across Buford Highway. He said two other goals involve increasing public safety through improved technology and maintaining the sustainability of parks, historic

challenge this past year with what we’ve seen in our larger political culture,” said Salter. “People are seeming more cranky with each other, for lack of a better word. It’s made me sad and concerned.”

She added that “it’s such a small town and we know each other well so I think the mayor

structures and natural resources.

In considering all those initiatives, indicated his counterpart in Peachtree Corners, it’s important to remember that their impacts can easily stretch across city borders. “Craig and I say it to each other all the time,” said Mike Mason. “A rising tide lifts all boats.” ■

Leaders discuss cities’ goals

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway’s Back in Atlanta

Left, Fox Theater

A

fter an 18-month hiatus, Broadway is finally coming back to Atlanta — partly thanks to Peachtree Corners resident, Russ Belin. Belin is vice president of the southeastern division of Broadway Across America.

In addition to overseeing the Broadway series at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, he also oversees

By Elizabeth Sigmon

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Above, Russ Belin

the Broadway touring seasons in New Orleans and Jacksonville.

He brings “the biggest and best hits” directly from the Broadway stage to the Fox Theatre.

Belin has worked for Broadway Across America for 10 years and has been a resident of Peachtree Corners, where he lives with his family, since 2008; he is married and has two sons, Jaykb (12) and Bryce (8). Both children attend local middle and elementary schools: Pinckneyville Middle School and Simpson Elementary School, respectively.

Belin is an active member of the Peachtree Corners community, he attends the Summer Concert Series at Town Center, and his children are both involved in local sports teams. “I love the location [of Peachtree Corners] but I also love the amenities, the neighborhoods, the sports,” he

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

said, “but a lot of it comes down to location and how easy it is to get to [Downtown Atlanta]; it’s 25 to 30 minutes, which is reasonable,” he said. “I think Peachtree Corners is a gem.”

The return of Broadway In its return from the pandemic shutdown, live theater will kick off on a high note and is sure to attract a diverse audience of eager theatergoers. “We have a great line-up this season!”

Belin said. The Fifth Third Bank Broadway 40th Anniversary season does not disappoint after its much-anticipated return. “We are bringing six season titles along with four specials, including Hamilton — which is going to be our return on August 22nd,” he added.

The ground-breaking, 11-time Tony award-winning show is

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sure to be a smash debut. Tickets are going fast since they went on sale July 8th. Hamilton is the story about the creation of America using the faces and voices of today’s America. The Lin-Manuel Miranda score fuses elements of R&B, hip hop, jazz, rap and musical theater to put together a story about the titular “Ten Dollar Founding Father” that is resonant with every living generation.

Alexander Hamilton’s life story set to music has caused an unprecedented cultural and political revolution. The production has gained international acclaim, sweeping at the U.K.’s Olivier Awards, winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and even achieving an historic Kennedy Centers Honors Award. Tickets

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are available by visiting FoxTheatre.org/Hamilton. Hamilton will run August 22 to September 26, 2021.

Entertainment for everyone Aside from Hamilton, there are many other shows to get excited about this season! Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations is another title right off the Broadway stage that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Ain’t Too Proud tells the incredible journey of the Temptations from their Detroit origins to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With a Motown score will have everyone dancing in their seats and singing along, this Tony-winning musical will be in Atlanta from March 8 to 13, 2022.

Another must-see show is the musical adaptation of the 2004 Tina Fey classic, Mean Girls. This Tony-nominated musical comedy about hilarious yet ruthless high school girls will have audiences laughing out loud and humming the songs as they walk out of the theaters. With brilliant full-company dance numbers in a high school cafeteria and brilliant ballads that ring true to the original movie, the show is expected to be a standout of the season.

Watch your back, because Mean Girls is coming to town July 19 to 24, 2022!

Undoubtably, families will be lining up at the Fox this season to see Frozen. The Disney show is pure family-friendly fun. It’s coming straight off Broadway as well, and will be here next summer, starting June 12, 2022. The show is enjoyable for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.

First-timers will quickly fall in love with the perky and loving Princess Anna and gasp in awe when Elsa, the Ice Queen, transforms into her iconic blue dress right before the audience’s eyes during the Academy-award-winning song, “Let it Go.” This icy fairytale warms the heart with its powerful tale about the love between sisters and brings out everyone’s inner child with that “classic Disney magic.”

That’s not all, folks!

Other titles for the season include: ■ Fiddler on the Roof —

November 9-14, 2021 ■ Dr. Seuss’ How the

Grinch Stole Christmas!

The Musical —

December 7-12, 2021 ■ Tootsie — Jan. 25-30, 2022 ■ Jesus Christ Superstar —

April 19-24, 2022 ■ Beautiful: The Carole

King Musical —

May 20-22, 2022 ■ Blue Man Group —

July 8-10, 2022

More than a Lucky Shot: Local photographer David Dunagan Awarded in Photo Competition

Ready to meet any challenges When asked if “Broadway is back in Atlanta” after a year and a half of theater doors across the world being closed, Belin was greatly optimistic. “Yes! We are back!” he said. “It will 550 days since we closed Hello Dolly [the last production performed before shut down]. New York is reopening and the vaccine is available to anyone who wants it, so it feels like people are ready and now is the time to reopen.”

The biggest challenges lie within the shows themselves, Belin noted, as actors are displaced throughout the country with the closure of theaters, and new protocol and mandates have changed theater in many ways.

“It’s hard to tell what’s going to change… obviously some of the procedures have changed for the actors and crew as they travel around the country,” he explained.

“Some people may remember being able to stand at the stage door and say hello or try to get an autograph; those things might not happen for a while. But outside of that, I don’t think much will change for the guest experience.”

After a year of virtual concerts and glitchy Zoom cocktail hours, live entertainment is finally back in business. We can now catch a baseball game at full capacity at Truist Park and even go to a live concert at Peachtree Corners’ own Town Center.

And Peachtree Corners is ready, more than ever, to be entertained. Broadway Across Atlanta is more than happy to provide. ■

Local photographer David Dunagan was awarded first place in a recent photo competition sponsored by the Georgia Nature Photographers Association (GNPA).

The contest was entitled “Spread Your Wings” and featured images of dragonflies, birds, butterflies and bees.

According to gnpa.org, the enthusiastic response

by GNPA members resulted in 276 entries in May for the “Spread Your Wings” gallery exhibit at Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell.

Of those entries, 24 framed photos were chosen to hang in the exhibit gallery through August 24.

Dunagan’s first place photo, “Feeding Baby,” features a gorgeous bluebird lovingly feeding its young. A striking shot of Dunagan’s that focuses on a honeybee received an Honorable Mention.

The bluebird picture was taken in a Peachtree Corners residential area. The honeybee shot was taken in Pinckneyville Park.

“This was my first photo contest win,” Dunagan said, “and it was a thrill, especially considering the tough competition!”

Dunagan is Vice President for Programming and Education of the Peachtree Corners Photography Club (PCPC). For more about Dunagan’s work and his work with PCPC, visit pcphotoclub.org. ■

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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SPACES

Real Estate & Home

Commercial Real Estate in Peachtree Corners Stays Strong Through the Pandemic Left, Skyline Seven Real Estate arranged a $7.1 million sale of Peachtree Corners Shopping Center, a 106,257-square-foot retail property at 7050 Jimmy Carter Blvd.

Opposite page, Amazon Logistics Center

T

he pandemic was not kind to certain sectors of the commercial real estate landscape.

Restaurants and small businesses shut down for a time, with some going out of business entirely. In some places, investor interest in office buildings, warehouses and retail centers dried up. Their vacancy rates leaped, and sales volume plummeted.

Then there’s the Peachtree Corners story, which is noticeably different.

By Mark Woolsey

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Different approaches “There was only a mild slowdown during the pandemic,” said Jennifer Howard, the city’s economic development director. “Our city is unique. We have taken a couple of different approaches to economic development here.”

That includes policy changes enabling mixed-use property developers to enhance their projects. An overlay district was created, and redevelopment incentives were put in place, under which developers can earn credits for greater density in return for adding such things as public art and trails and vehicle charging stations. Additional city enhancements have included partial support of the Curiosity Lab vehicle testing track, a startup incubator and coding school.

“I think you need to look at the fact that the city manager and the mayor and city council have been very welcoming to

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

businesses,” said Brad Kuehn, President of Atlanta Office Realty, Inc. He gives additional props to the city’s emphasis on amenities such as parks and trails, walkability and Town Center.

What city officials see as a downturn instead of a disaster during the heart of the pandemic is borne out by a look at the numbers.

Take sales volume, for example. Howard quotes figures from the CoStar real estate information company. Total sales volume was around $160,000,000 in the first quarter of 2020, then it fell off as low as $25,000,000 the last quarter of the year, but it has quickly rebounded to $170,000,000.

Projects in the pipeline Transactions happened and leases were signed even as COVID cases rose and many people stayed hidden away. “We had been pushing so much energy peachtreecornerslife

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into the pipeline that even when things came to a halt, we still had projects moving forward and filling the pipeline,” is how Howard explained it.

One such “pipeline filler” was an investor group from Atlanta purchasing a 1980s-era strip shopping center at 7050 Jimmy Carter Boulevard, said Elliott Kyle, Vice President with Skyline Seven Real Estate.

He said that buyers backed off deals like that for a few months during the worst of the Coronavirus, but he added that’s been over for a while.

“We got some really good interest on it,” he said of the shopping plaza anchored by a closed fitness center, which he said would ordinarily be a tougher sell. A recent leasing flyer on the property shows well over half the spaces have been leased.

“It’s the quality properties that are getting snapped up quickly,” Kyle said. Those that flunk the quality test or are overpriced are the ones that are languishing, he indicated.

Readily available cash and fears about the near future are driving many deals, he said.

“I think what it was, was that people were sitting on money (during the pandemic) and they needed to get a return,” Kyle

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maintained. Another factor is the prospect of interest rates rising and buyers wanting to lock in a favorable rate now.

Another signature project that developed as COVID raged involved healthcare staffing firm Soliant Health, which moved its headquarters to Peachtree Corners. They announced in August that they had signed a lease on a building at 5550 Peachtree Parkway in Technology Park. Some 400 jobs came with that.

Not sitting on its laurels for long, the firm announced a headquarters expansion in June and the addition of 200 more to the workforce.

Goddard Senior Vice President Rusty Bennett, citing Peachtree Corners lease rates that are about half of that of spots like Midtown and the Ponce City Market neighborhood.

Warehouse and office space Industry executives also said

city’s much-lauded Curiosity Lab, a public-private partnership aimed at attracting technology businesses and helping them grow. Kuehn, for one, thinks those companies will pull together and incubate, and that once they can stand on their own, they’ll go find office space.

No sign of shortages Even with absorption happening, local realtors and industry observers don’t see any kind of shortage of office space developing in the city. On the other hand, at least one observer of the market doesn’t foresee significant additions on the supply side.

Downward trend in vacancies A number of other real estate transactions have come to a revitalizing Tech Park, including post-acute-care tech solutions firm Brightree renovating a 1970s building and moving its home base there. The deal finished in December of 2019, just before Coronavirus began its deadly spread.

Commercial real estate observers said transactions like the above demonstrate a market that ranges from “stable” to “active”, depending on who you talk to. Another sign of that is a vacancy rate that has steadily trended downward since the city incorporated nine years ago.

Again, with a nod to the Costar service, Howard said the current office, retail and industrial vacancy rate in Peachtree corners is 13.7%. She said that number edged up modesty during the pandemic to 14.5% and then dipped to 12.75% for a time.

“The vacancy rate actually decreased during the pandemic because of projects in the pipeline,” she said.

One factor cited in connection with vacancy rates is a number of smaller entrepreneurial firms locating in Peachtree Corners, plus larger corporations beginning to look at moving here from Atlanta addresses.

“Gentrification is happening there and as it relates to say, Buckhead, it’s a huge discount for an occupier,” said commercial real estate firm NAI Brannen

that the warehouse piece of the commercial market is going very well around the metro area partly because of a tightening supply and also due to a thriving logistics marketplace segment.

They maintain that a portion of that is due to conversion of such one-story warehouse facilities to office space.

Then there are projects pulling office space off the market and paring down the supply in Peachtree Corners, such as adaptive reuse ventures. One is at 5720 Peachtree Parkway, where an existing several-story office building and some one-story business condos will become a mixed-use development with a large residential presence.

City council member Weare Gratwick sounds a cautionary note about that trend involving aging commercial buildings, however. “Speaking as a council member, our challenge is balancing how much adaptive re-use of office product we should have against preserving office space,” Gratwick said.

He says while such factors as workers wanting to settle closer to their jobs is a driver, “the challenge is to balance that, because once you lose that office space it’s gone forever.”

Another factor cited is the

“And many of them will stay in Peachtree Corners,” he maintained.

Said David McEachern, the local director at Keller Williams Chattahoochee North, “what

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continued from page 63 we’re not seeing is the development of new shopping centers or office buildings because there’s enough supply right now, even in the case of warehouses. That will help constrain supply to a certain extent.”

Meantime, he and others said investor interest is relatively strong at the moment, citing his listing on Holcomb Bridge Road for a 10,000 square foot office building. He said quite a few potential investors have come calling, “I personally think it’s a good solid market and we’re not going to see a bunch of new buildings created,” said McEachern. He and others point out that Peachtree Corners is, for the most, part built out.

There’s speculation within the industry on how this stew of factors will impact lease, rental and per-square-foot sale pricing. Bennett thinks that the combination of property being absorbed and solid interest on the part of investors and companies is contributing to higher lease rates.

Howard, with the city, has some numbers that appear to back that up, saying that there’s been a steady increase in rent prices in the commercial market, on the order of 2% to 4% a year.

She said that last year was a bit

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slower than the long term, with growth of 2¼%.

Grappling with a new normal Kuehn indicates the above numbers are important because “there are still people out looking to buy a building, but the majority of offices are leases.” When those leases come due over the next few years, a wild-card factor in all this is how companies might reduce their office space, having seen that at least some workers can do their jobs from home.

Local real estate people say the jury’s still out on that and probably will be for a few years.

Said McEachern, “What will be interesting to see and, I think will get filtered out, is as those leases start to expire this year, next year and three to five years out, is what they do with their existing space. I think that’s going to constrain additional office building because we will probably see some reduction of square footage with people working at home more.”

Others foresee a somewhat different direction, with greater movement of employees back to their cubicles. “My gut feel is that, over time, people are going to gravitate being back more in the office than remotely. It might take a couple of years, but

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

I think that’s ultimately where we’re going to end up,” said Tom Rhodes, partner and chair at Meadows and Ohly, a Peachtree Corners real estate firm specializing in healthcare facilities.

Gratwick — and others in the business world — point out that those working on their computers from home largely lose their shot at being mentored, building personal relationships and collaborating face-to-face with coworkers.

With the remoting trend, some think companies may reduce their square footage while having workers come in a day or two a week, sharing their space and working from home otherwise. Others say the trend toward open-plan office space will reduce square-footage needs.

As to what impact this would have on lease, rental and squarefoot pricing in sales, it’s too soon for some to say, but Rhodes thinks it could force lease rates downward.

“Maybe we’ll see hoteling of office space,” he said. “It might not necessarily reduce square footage, but it’ll mean a reconfiguring and that space won’t increase as a firm grows.”

Up and coming projects It’s safe to say Peachtree Corners officials are keeping

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Recently passed Mixed Use Development that stretches from 5672 through 5720 Peachtree Parkway.

that and other trends in mind as they celebrate new commercial projects coming online, one of them an Amazon logistics center at 4925 Avalon Ridge, another deal which developed during the worst days of COVID. The Black Creek Group real estate management firm purchased the property one year ago, leased it out to the retail giant and trucks are expected to be rolling this fall.

Other announcements may well be coming. McEachern tells of getting a call from a software company owner in the Peachtree Corners area. He says he and three others are looking to spend $2,000,000 to $5,000,000 on commercial locations.

The city’s live-work-play emphasis and focus creating jobs in tandem with places for workers to stay here has seemingly worked well to this point.

Said Howard, “Our approach has been focused on innovation and fostering companies and on economic development through community development in creating a place where people want to live.” ■

peachtreecornerslife

Pet Suites of Amer and $125 Visa gift c (pictured the Purdins Kodiak (Kodi))

GALLERY BEGINS

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 5

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PETS & THEIR PEOPLE PHOTO GALLERY AND WINNERS OF OUR “PETS & THEIR PEOPLE” GIVEAWAY

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August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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NOURISH

Grub Up! Food Trucks in and near Peachtree Corners

G

By Kelsey Asher

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Biscuit ood foodFlying is on the move.

When theWaffle hunger FL Sunshine Breakfast. pangs hit and you want something filling and fun, a food truck is the place to be. But the problem with mobile food of course is “Where exactly is your new favorite lunch going to be parking next?”

The spices, smells and sensations are closer than you think.

Here’s a heads up for when, where and what you can chow down.

Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

Food Trucks at Anderby Brewing 110 Technology Parkway, Suite 200, Peachtree Corners 30092 Go to facebook.com/AnderbyBrewing/ for details, or visit AnderbyBrewing.com, click on ‘More,’ then ‘Events,’ for more food truck dates and info.

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August 13. 5-8 p.m. — Spice the Americas is a food truck and caterer that features cuisine infused with international influences prepared by Chef Ernest Hines. Chef Ernest is experienced in a wide range of catering, from weddings to small gatherings. He also specializes in a wide variety of food themes, with a focus on South, Central and North American fusions.

peachtreecornerslife

August 12, 15. Time TBA. — Pizzeria Azzurri offers a variety of brick oven pizzas and wings.

August 24; September 3, 7, 14. 4-9 p.m. — Nana’s House, one of the newest food truck vendors, specializes in cake jars and quesadillas.

August 20, 26, 31. 5-9 p.m.; September 11, 25. 2-9 p.m.; September 21. 5-9 p.m. — D Lumalu Food Truck brings Latin American Fusion cuisine.

Their menu includes a variety of burgers, sandwiches, pizzas and, of course, dessert.

August 19; September 9. 4-9 p.m.

— Lil Pizza Truck is a returning favorite that serves up a variety of wood fired pizzas.

August 27. 5-9 p.m. — Lobster Dogs Food truck rolls up with the best lobster rolls and stuffed avocados in Georgia!

August 21. 3-9 p.m.; September 18. 1-6 p.m. — Southern Roots Backyard BBQ specializes in BBQ. Their menu items include ribs, pulled pork sandwiches and brisket.

August 28. 1- 8 p.m.; September 16. 5-9 p.m.; September 24, 4-9 p.m.— Southern Grace Kitchen will be serving up a variety of southern inspired dishes such as Shrimp & Grits, Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese and Chicken Biscuits.

August/September 2021 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Where to Eat

Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park 575 Riverside Drive, Roswell 30075

Everyone is invited to an array of different food trucks, live music and fun for the whole family. Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy dinner in the park. Visit their Facebook page “Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park” to find out more.

August 27 — Bento Bus, Mercedes Benz, Q’Paso, Gotta Have It, Chickfil-A, Steel City Pops, Repicci’s Italian Ice & Gelato. Entertainment TBA. September 24 — A Little Nauti, Azzuri Pizza, Kajun Asian, The Patty Wagon, South of Philly, Steel City Pops, Sweet Jeanius. Entertainment TBA. 5275 Peachtree Pkwy Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

Truck & Tap

3137 Main Street, Duluth 30096

Go the extra mile with extra everything. Or keep it light to feel just right. This is your life. Your recipe. So don’t let anyone tell you how to salad.

5210 Town Center Blvd, Suite 210 Peachtree Corners, GA 30093 (470) 233-7586

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This unique hangout offers a rotating lineup of food trucks and craft beer carefully selected by their in-house Certified Cicerone. Truck & Tap partnered with PREP, the South’s largest Food Truck Commissary, to bring trucks specializing in everything from lobster rolls and BBQ to NY-style pizza and Asian-fusion cuisine.

Truck & Tap locations are found in Duluth, Alpharetta and Woodstock. Go to truckandtap.com for more info, including hours and food truck menus.

• August 10, 17, 25 — Chuy’s Tacos • August 11, 28 — Yaardie Eats • August 12 — 6PackSubs Vietnamese • August 13, 29 — Meatballerz • August 14, 16, 31 — Strange Taco Bar • August 15, 24 — The Breaded Pig • August 18, — C’est Tout Bon 2 Eat • August 19 — My Vietnamese Food Mobile • August 20, 30 — All Around the World • August 21 — Q’Paso Latin Grub • August 22 — Sunshine Alchemy • August 23 — Lowco Motion • August 26 — Kajun Asian • August 27 — Choate BBQ

To advertise in this section please contact Julie Davis at julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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P

eachtree Corner’s storied past has been captured in the community’s first history book, Peachtree Corners, the History of an Innovative and Remarkable City, 1777-2020. The 230-page, hardcover book by well-known author Carole Townsend is now on sale in the city’s online store.

“This book thoughtfully recounts the past and present of our community through personal narratives of the people who lived here and knew it best,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “It’s their memories and photographs that we set out to capture and preserve.”

Visit peachtreecornersga.gov, click on ‘Residents,’ then ‘City Online Store’ to order a copy for $29.95.

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Peachtree Corners Magazine ■ August/September 2021 ■ LivingInPeachtreeCorners.com

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

From the Mayor’s Desk

Nearly a Decade has Passed Since Our City was Founded For those of you who were here in 2011, you no doubt remember when the referendum to form our City passed. It was a momentous occasion. I recall announcing to a jubilant crowd of supporters that November evening after the polls had closed and the count completed that the referendum to incorporate had passed.

I think back on that pivotal moment in our history and am amazed at all we have accomplished in just nine years. But just as important is remembering the core reasons for incorporating. Our community was under pressure to urbanize rapidly and without direction, as more and more large retailers, businesses, and companies saw the strategic value of locating in Peachtree Corners.

Our proximity to major highways and Atlanta’s international airport made our community extremely attractive. Yet other areas in the community badly needed attention.

Tech Park Atlanta, the crown jewel office park of the ‘80s, was experiencing a high vacancy rate which threatened our entire community.

Empty strip malls along Holcomb Bridge and run-down apartments along outer Peachtree Corners Circle begged for redevelopment.

Yet, we had no mechanism to control that growth or address those redevelopment needs, or to decide how our community would look decades later. Without incorporating as a city, it meant we were at the mercy of others who had no direct ties to our community. The founding of the City of Peachtree Corners was the single most important decision our residents made in determining the fate of their community.

Without local control, choice land would have been annexed leaving the remaining properties in our community subject to reduced values over time.

Standing up a new city is a remarkable achievement in itself as new processes have to be put in place so that a city can begin operating immediately. When I think back, I’m amazed at all the details that had to be taken care of in those early days. But our efforts paid off for everyone.

Through incorporation, we were able to control our fate, to implement processes allowing us to plan for our future to ensure desirable businesses locate here and redevelopment would be done in a careful, thoughtful way. Developing a strategic plan is a vital tool for any local jurisdiction to ensure priorities set by City Council are conveyed and developed to meet the community’s needs.

An interesting result of municipal incorporation is that residential property values are more likely to increase. In fact, according to a Georgia State University study, property values can rise 12 to 13 percent over time just from incorporation alone. That has certainly been the case for Peachtree Corners: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, home property values are up 18 percent since 2011.

Mike Mason, Mayor

The founding of the City of Peachtree Corners was the single most important decision our residents made in determining the fate of their community.

The development of our Town Center was a remarkable feat as our city was barely six months old when we learned that the 21-acre wooded property across from The Forum was to be redeveloped into 265 garden-style apartments. Because Peachtree Corners was incorporated, it had the ability to change the direction of how this sizeable tract would be developed. In the summer of 2017 ground was broken on our Town Center, and today we have a beautiful community gathering place for our residents and visitors.

Also memorable was the creation of Simpsonwood Park in 2016 and the permanent preservation of those 227 wooded acres.

The United Methodist Church was evaluating a much higher offer for the property

Continued on page 72

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

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

Peachtree Corners City Hall 310 Technology Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Telephone: 678-691-1200 August/September 2021 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS property values.

The City’s Curiosity Lab from a developer intent upon was developed as an economic clearing the land for homes while driver. Since its official opening the County was bidding a lesser in the fall of 2019, high-profile amount to preserve the land as companies including Brightree, a park. The City contributed $2 ASHRAE and Soliant chose to million, no small sum now, but relocate their headquarters to a huge amount for a new City, Technology Park because of synwhich tipped the balance in favor ergy that Curiosity Lab brought of the County’s bid, assuring that to the City. The additional energy the tree canopy will be preserved surrounding Curiosity Lab has for our descendants. also increased business at our Successful economic develop- local hotels and restaurants and ment plays an important part in has even brought a brand-new the quality of life for residents. annual conference here.

As more businesses open, it proIn just two short years Curiosvides funds to use for more parks, ity Lab has already been recogmulti-use trails and other desirnized for its smart city technoloable amenities. There is another gy including testing technologies valuable outcome -- ultimately a that will perfect the deployment city with a robust economy will of driverless vehicles. Additionalexperience increased residential ly, Technology Parkway is fitted

with smart cameras, an artificial intelligence-controlled infrastructure, and millions of internet-of-things sensors. Curiosity Lab is drawing interest from technology-focused companies worldwide.

In December 2020, the city’s new Redevelopment Authority was formed which will provide renewed focus on reinvigorating the Holcomb Bridge corridor and other areas of the city.

This Authority is comprised of nine board members and all are Peachtree Corners residents. This body can plan, administer, and implement redevelopment and community improvement projects. Additionally, the board can aid in identifying and obtaining public funding for industrial, commercial, or residential im-

City Earns Excellence in Financial Reporting Award for Third Consecutive Year

Why do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck?

Continued from page 71

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) recently honored Peachtree Corners with a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (COA) for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (Annual Report). This certificate is awarded to municipalities in the United States and Canada that achieve the highest standards of governmental accounting and financial reporting.

To earn the award, the Annual Report was judged by an impartial panel to have met the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate the city’s financial story to its residents and business community.

“We strive to ensure that our financial reporting is worthy of this important award. It validates Peachtree Corners’ commitment to sound financial accountability,” said Cory Salley, Director of Finance. “This award is a real honor, because it recognizes that we are handling the finances of Peachtree Corners in an efficient and effective manner.”

This marks the third consecutive year that Peachtree Corners has earned this prestigious financial reporting award. The GFOA has also honored Peachtree Corners with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award in recognition of outstanding budget preparation for the past four consecutive years. “These awards are significant because they recognize our ongoing commitment to fiduciary responsibility and financial transparency,” said City Manager Brian Johnson.

“Peachtree Corners is dedicated to fiscal responsibility at every level.”

The Government Finance Officers Association, based in Chicago, is a non-profit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals. It has offices in Chicago and Washington, D.C., and serves the member organizations by advancing uniform standards and procedures in financial management for governments and assisting with professional development for public finance managers.

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Inside Peachtree Corners ■ August/September 2021 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

Spring and summer months are a good time to consider building, repairing, or replacing a deck. The first and most important of our deck building tips is to always get a permit.

According to a recent study, 90% of the people building decks do not get a permit. Permits and inspections are very important, whether you are building the deck yourself or having a contractor do it. Obtaining a permit comes with

great benefits to ensure a safe quality deck is built.

I’m sure you have seen news reports covering decks that have collapsed causing injury, property damage or worse. Many of these peachtreecornersga

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provements or expansion projects. The Authority brings new tools which, we hope, will bring developers interested in investing in this highly visible and important gateway to our city.

I think it’s also important to note that all of this was done while maintaining a zero-millage rate.

Initially our residents responded to the simple question: who should decide our future?

You answered: we should! We’ve come a long way in just nine years – with your support, we have a bright future ahead of us.

Stay safe, Mike Mason, Mayor

incidents could have been avoided if permits and inspections had been obtained.

How do I obtain a Deck permit?

First, you or your contractor will make an application for the deck permit and submit a drawing of the proposed deck. By following the rules and going through the process, you: ■ Will have a plan review of your deck by a certified plans examiner

■ The plans examiner will make all life safety checks for code compliance before a permit is issued ■ Once plans have passed the review process, a permit will be is-

PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Deck story continued sued, and inspections will be made by certified inspectors. This will help to protect the safety of your home and family.

What does the Building Department look for during a plan review of a deck?

1. Footing depths and sizes: Are the footings deep enough and large enough to support the proposed deck? And will they stay put during winter frosts?

2. Post Sizes: Are the proposed post supports large enough to support the structure and the intended loads?

3. Beams, Joist sizes and spans: Will the joist and beam sizes span the distance with adequate support for the load?

4. House Attachment: Will the methods shown on the plans to tie the deck to the house be adequate, or do you need a freestanding deck?

Stairs and guardrails: Do they meet the parameters for life safety?

These are the type of requirements your city building department will review. Remember, the building code is meant to serve in your best interest. Nobody wants to build a deck that is substandard or will need to be torn down or repaired in the near future.

Inspections: Part of your deck building permit fee includes inspections, usually a footing inspection and a final inspection. The inspector will check the footing depths before you pour them and inspect framing after everything is complete. Other decks may have electrical inspections and roof inspections as well. When you obtain your permit, the list of inspections will be provided on your permit by the plan reviewer.

Always use your city inspectors as a source of information. While inspectors cannot design or advise you on how to build the deck, they can keep you informed on code compliant means to build your deck and keep it safe for you and your family for years to come.

Find more information on decks on the city’s website (www. peachtreecornersga.gov) under “Building & Permitting” or call the Building Department at 678-6911200.

Mark Mitchell, Chief Building Officer

Rules on Short-Term Property Rentals With our summer trips, family reunions and family vacations here, many people are turning to Airbnb and other online short-term rental platforms to rent out their properties to re-coup some of their vacation money.

While this is a great idea, most municipalities, including Peachtree Corners, have requirements and restrictions for such activities.

To protect residential neighborhoods, the City of Peachtree Corners prohibits the renting of an individual’s home for a period of less than 31 days.

The City of Peachtree Corners also prohibits the renting of any portion of a residential property for any length of time. This includes pools, tennis courts, accessory structures, etc.

Please contact Peachtree Corners Code Enforce-

ment by telephone at 678-691-1200 with any questions regarding short-term rentals.

City Home to Futuristic Smart City Connected Technologies Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything Technology Coming to Curiosity Lab The day is quickly arriving where every connected device can and will communicate with one another. Yes – that means your car will even talk to your house!

Jacobs, Peachtree Corners and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. announced a partnership to test Vehicle to Everything – dubbed V2X technology. Initial testing will focus on roadside infrastructure, traffic management and road safety through implementation of cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology.

C-V2X allows vehicles to communicate with each other and everything and everyone nearby. It connects vehicles with the phone in your pocket, the building you are about to enter, the latest weather and traffic and so on.

The idea is that real-time information will make us safer and more efficient in how we live our lives. Environmental sustainability and cost savings are also benefits of this technology. Why cool

your house this summer when you are not there when your car can let the house know when you will arrive and cool it just in time?

Technology innovations are being tested every day in Peachtree Corners. Read more by visiting Curiosity Lab’s website, www.CuriosityLabPTC. com

U.S. Veterans’ Memories Captured on Video The men and women who have served in our U.S. Armed Forces have remarkable stories to tell.

Some served in time of war, some during peace time but all have compelling stories to share. Thankfully, the Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument Association has captured many of those stories in a video collection.

Please take time to visit the Peachtree Corners Veterans Monument website, www. ptcvets.net, to hear their stories. Click on the PCN icon at the bottom of any page or access the videos by clicking on “Gallery” then “Videos.”

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

August/September 2021 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Soliant Expands Headquarters, Adds Jobs

Soliant, a leading provider of specialized health care and education staffing services to hospitals and schools around the nation, is growing in Peachtree Corners. Soliant recently expanded its Peachtree Corners headquarters at 5550 Peachtree Parkway by 25,000 square feet, bringing the total to 83,000 square feet and creating 200 new jobs.

In 2020 the company had announced the relocation of its national headquarters to a 58,000-square-foot space in Technology Park bringing 400 jobs. The majority of new job opportunities now open to applicants will be focused on education and health care recruiting. Soliant will employ more than 600 people once this expansion is complete.

Get the Corners Connect App Keep Up with Town Center Events, Discover Dining Options and More Have you downloaded the new Corners Connect app? Find events, dining and entertainment, bus routes, city information, news, weather and more.

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

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

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From Farming Settlement to Technology Mecca, Community Has a Rich History Long before the new city of Peachtree Corners was founded, the region, once known as Pinckneyville, was a farming community, dating back many years before such inventions as electricity and automobiles.

That history has been captured in the community’s first history book, Peachtree Corners, the History of an Innovative and Remarkable City 1777-2020. The 230-page coffee table-style book is filled with stories of long ago.

The book is now available for purchase through the city’s online store. Visit www. peachtreecornersga.gov, under the “Residents” tab, select “City Online Store” and follow the prompts. Order now for an autographed copy,

supplies are limited.

For questions send an email to info@ peachtreecornersga.gov or call 678-691-1200.

Improve Your Photography Skills with Free Classes The city’s free photo and video workshops have returned. The Tytan Pictures’ crew is once again providing instruction on a variety of photography and video topics.

The classes cover everything from camera basics, lighting techniques and landscape photography to tips for advanced photographers.

Please access the Calendar on the City’s website for upcoming classes and information on how to register, location and times. Classes available only for those who live or work in the city.

Where to Dispose of Worn, Damaged American Flags American flags that are worn, faded or damaged can be respectfully disposed of in a drop box located at City Hall.

The flags are periodically collected and retired by a local Boy Scout troop. Please drop off flags Monday -Friday from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Order T-Shirts, Coffee Mugs and More Online

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ August/September 2021 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

Did you know the city has an online store where you can purchase items featuring the city’s name and logo? Shop for T-shirts, coffee mugs, etc. Several T-shirt designs available. The city has also just added PTC ball caps.

You can find the details on the city’s website, www. peachtreecornersga.gov - locate the “Residents” tab then in the pulldown menu select “City Online Store” to view items and place your order.

Purchases must be made online. You will be notified when the items are ready for pick up at city hall. No walk-in purchases available.

For questions call City Hall at 678-691-1200. peachtreecornersga

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PtreeCorners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Build your own: How to Manage Rain Runoff Did you know homeowners are responsible for managing their stormwater runoff (precipitation that does not soak into the ground)?

Stormwater runoff can be a problem when

1) Rain Garden: https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-build-a-raingarden-in-your-yard 2) Dry well : https://www.thisoldhouse. com/yards/21124791/how-to-build-a-simpledry-well 3) Drainage Ditch: https://peppershomeandgarden.com/dig-trench-drainage/#:~:text=Dig%20a%20trench%20that%20 is,rocks%2C%20soil%2C%20or%20stones.

4) Pavers: https://www.truegridpaver. com/complete-guide-permeable-paving-sys1) Rain Garden: https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to tems%EF%BB%BF/ 2) Dry well : https://www.thisoldhouse.com/yards/21124791/how-

large volumes overwhelm storm drains which cause localized flooding.

Check below for a list of cost friendly mitigation efforts.

Manage ManageRain RainRunoff Runoff Manage Rain Runoff

Build your own

Homeowners Homeowners areare responsible responsible forfor managing managing their their stormwater stormwater runoff runoff (precipitation (precipitation that that doesn’t doesn’t soak soak into into Homeowners are responsible for managing theirwhen stormwater runoff (precipitation thatdrains doesn’t soak into thethe ground). ground).

Stormwater Stormwater runoff runoff cancan bebe a problem a problem when large large volumes volumes overwhelm overwhelm storm storm drains which which the ground).causes Stormwater runoff can be a problem when large volumes overwhelm storm drains which causes localized localized flooding. flooding.

Listed Listed below below are are cost cost friendly friendly mitigation mitigation efforts. efforts. causes localized flooding. Listed below are cost friendly mitigation efforts.

3) Drainage Ditch: https://peppershomeandgarden.com/dig-trench drainage/#:~:text=Dig%20a%20trench%20that%20is,rocks%2C%2 4) Pavers: https://www.truegridpaver.com/complete-guide-permea

Difference Between Streams and Ditches

Difference Between Streams

STREAMS Streams

vs

-A con runoff

-Natural channel shape and path -Soil and debris movement Rain Rain Garden Garden

Drywells Drywells

RainRain Gardens Gardens consist consist of native of native shrubs, shrubs, perennials, perennials, andand flowers flowers planted planted in ain a small small depression, depression, designed designed to collect, toRain collect, and and slow slow down down stormwater stormwater runoff runoff from from Garden a roof, a roof, driveway driveway or other or other impervious impervious surfaces. surfaces.

Rain Gardens consist of native shrubs, perennials, and flowers planted in a small depression, designed to collect, and slow down stormwater runoff from a roof, driveway or other impervious surfaces.

Drywells Drywells areare underground underground structures structures thatthat collect collect stormwater stormwater andand allows allows it toitsoak to soak intointo thethe soilsoil slowly, slowly, instead instead of pooling of pooling in your in your lawn. lawn.

Drywells

-Shaded by trees and vegetation, and provides habitats for fish

Drywells are underground structures that collect stormwater and allows it to soak into the soil slowly, instead of pooling in your lawn.

-Sand/gravel/cobble bottom with defined bed and banks -Follows a natural drainage topography (meandering)

Build your own:

Ditches Ditches Drainage Drainage ditches ditches areare typically typically formed formed around around low-lying low-lying areas, areas, roadsides roadsides or fields or fields proximate proximate to atowater a water body body or created or created to channel to channel water water from from a a more distant water source. more distant water source.

Ditches

Drainage ditches are typically formed around low-lying areas, roadsides or fields proximate to a water body or created to channel water from a more distant water source.

1) Rain Garden: https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-build-a-rain-garden-in-your-yard 2) Dry well : https://www.thisoldhouse.com/yards/21124791/how-to-build-a-simple-dry-well 3) Drainage Ditch: https://peppershomeandgarden.com/dig-trenchdrainage/#:~:text=Dig%20a%20trench%20that%20is,rocks%2C%20soil%2C%20or%20stones.

4) Pavers: https://www.truegridpaver.com/complete-guide-permeable-paving-systems%EF%BB%BF/

Pavers Pavers

Pervious Pervious pavement pavement is designed is designed to allow to allow infiltration infiltration of stormwater of stormwater through through thethe surface surface intointo thethe soilsoil below below where where thethe water water is naturally is naturally filtered filtered andand pollutants pollutants areare removed. removed.

In contrast In contrast normal normal pavement pavement is an is impervious an impervious Pavers surface surface thatthat sheds sheds rainfall rainfall andand associated associated surface surface pollutants pollutants forcing forcing thethe water water to run to run offpavement off paved paved surfaces surfaces directly directly into nearby nearby storm storm drains drains andand then then Pervious is designed tointo allow infiltration of stormwater through into into streams streams and and lakes lakes the surface into the soil below where the water is naturally filtered and pollutants are removed. In contrast normal pavement is an impervious surface that sheds rainfall and associated surface pollutants forcing the water to run off paved surfaces directly into nearby storm drains and then -Naturalinto channel and path streamsshape and lakes

Difference Between Streams and Ditches

Streams

Water wisely this summer and save money As temperatures rise, many people begin paying more attention to their yards. It is important to remember that frequent watering is not always needed for a green landscape.

Excessive outdoor watering is not necessary and is also one of the fastest ways to raise your summer water bill.

Follow the tips below to help reduce your summer water use and keep your water bill low: ■ Don’t overwater – most plants only need about 1 inch of water per week.

■ Water early in the morning or late in

-Has a name (e.g., Crooked Creek)

-Soil and debris movement

the evening when temperatures are lowest.

-Shaded by trees and vegetation, and ■ Plant native vegetation to reduce provides habitats for fish the overall water requirement in your land-Sand/gravel/cobble bottom scape. with defined bed and banks ■ Mulch landscaped areas to increase water retention -Follows in the soil. a natural drainage topography (meandering) ■ Make sure irrigation systems don’t operate during or immediately after rain.

-Has a name (e.g.,

vs

DITCHES Ditches

-A constructed channel for the collection of runoff water or shallow groundwater and its conveyance to an outlet.

-Lack of trees and vegetation -Warm and shallow waters Carries it to a release point -For drainage purposes, typically dug through inter-stream divide areas

Crooked Creek)

You can keep your lawn looking good, conserve water, and save money with smart watering. For more tips on outdoor and indoor water conservation, please visit DWRConserve.com.

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

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