Southwest Gwinnett magazine January/February 2024

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southwestgwinnett enjoy life PEACHTREE CORNERS, DULUTH, NORCROSS & BERKELEY LAKE JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

Dreamy Date Nights

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ISSUE ELEVEN | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

southwestgwinnett CURATING STORIES AND NEWS FROM PEACHTREE CORNERS,

DULUTH, NORCROSS & BERKELEY LAKE

THE EDITORIAL & CREATIVE TEAM Kathy Dean

Rico Figliolini

Editorial Consultant and Copy Editor

Anna Del Villar

Publisher, Editorial & Creative Director and Founder

Assistant Editor & Newsletter Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Arlinda Smith Broady Writer

Tara Martin

Kristen Corley

Social Media & Website

Writer

Patrizia Winsper

Tracey Rice

Carol Casey

Harry Pinkney

Writer

Photographer

Writer

Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING Julie Davis

Account Executive

Mighty Rockets LLC is the publisher of Southwest Gwinnett magazine, Peachtree Corners Magazine and producer of a family of podcasts.

P. O. Box 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310

The editors welcome story suggestions, submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@southwestgwinnettmagazine.com.

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Advertising and corporate sponsorship inquiries can be directed to rico@mightyrockets.com

Southwest Gwinnett 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 Southwest Gwinnett 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. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines. Copyright ©2024 Mighty Rockets LLC with all rights reserved.

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EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS

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Contents

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2024

Calendar

8

Dreamy Date Nights for Every Budget

14

Wordsmiths of Love

18

The Science of Generosity

24

The Forum Peachtree Upgrades Coming

28

Norcross Settles into Phase 1 of Greenspaces Project

32

Solis Peachtree Corners Broke Ground this December Next to Town Center

34

Aurora Theatre Presents a Look Back at an Iconic Children’s TV Show

36

PCBA Donates Thousands of Dollars to Community Programs

38

Your New Year’s Health Resolutions Just Got a New Primer

40

Behind the Scenes of Paul Duke STEM Students’ Award-Winning Documentary

42

Capital Tacos Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

44

About the Cover Kristen Corley at H&W Steakhouse, one of several date night spots featured in this issue.

Photography by Tracey Rice.

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Events, concerts and theatre

Ongoing

January

Thursdays weekly

Through February 22 Cornhole League

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

Senior Bridge Club

Pinckneyville Park 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920 Admission: free The club meets every Thursday for ages 50 and up. Please call for availability.

Fridays weekly Yielded Men 7-8 a.m.

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

Every other Saturday Gwinnett Chess Club 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920 Register with Tom Emch, 770-605-0429, ibemch@charter.net Admission: free Chess for all ages. All experiences are welcomed.

January 18 Naturalization 101 5-7 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main S., Duluth gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154

The Forum 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com

Admission: free; registration required Learn what it takes to become a naturalized citizen. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will help lawful permanent residents — and others interested in the naturalization process — learn about the naturalization process, eligibility requirements, testing and citizenship rights.

Cornhole ATL has grown to be the home of over 400 cornhole players.

Cornhole is an easy-to-play social game with a league at The Forum. The seven-week Winter League includes a season-ending tournament with prizes and a Championship Trophy. Note that players must be registered with Cornhole ATL to compete. For further info, email info@cornholeatl.com.

January 20 Dancing in a Winter Wonderland 6-8 p.m.

January 13 Lionheart Comedy Night YTF

Lucky Shoals Park Community Center 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross 678-277-0860, GwinnettParks.com

8-10 p.m.

February Black History Month 2 Groundhog Day 13 Mardi Gras 14 Valentine’s Day 19 Presidents’ Day March Women’s History Month Irish American History Month

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

January 26 Modern Messaging Tea Party 3-4 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch 5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners 30092 gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free Celebrate Lewis Carroll’s birthday with tea and discuss ways to improve your emailing skills.

The whole family is invited for an evening of dancing to holiday-themed music.

Tickets: $10 About the show: It’s an open mic organized by Yo That’s Funny that features some of the funniest comics in the area.

January 22 Movie Mondays — Book Club: The Next Chapter

January 16 and February 6, 20 Music Open Mic with Derek

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net

7-10 p.m.

Kettlerock Brewing 6025 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 1, Peachtree Corners kettlerockbrewing.com

Admission: free

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

January 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day

General admission tickets: $10

Admission: $5 per person

Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022

Admission: free

Dates to Remember

Norcross High School Auditorium 5300 Spalding Dr., Norcross nhs-drama.com

January 18 Chess Boards and Checker Crowns

About the movie: The film follows the new journey of four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls’ trip they never had.

January 26-February 4 The Radio Play Disaster

January 25 and February 8, 22 Euchre Meetup

Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022

All day Kettlerock Brewing 6025 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 1, Peachtree Corners kettlerockbrewing.com

4-5 p.m.

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

Admission: free Meet with friends and play Euchre. All experience levels are welcome.

Admission: free Game players of all ages and skill levels are invited to learn about and play chess and checkers.

January 25-28 Annie JR. Thursday-Saturday, 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.

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Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m.

Tickets: $18; students and seniors, $16 About the show: In this short comedy, self-proclaimed genius Harlan Bean is ready to make history with his science-fiction radio masterpiece Battle of the Planets. But when the broadcast is in the hands of an ambitious actress with her own vision for her character, several terrified last-minute replacements jump in, and a disgruntled sound engineer is out for revenge. The mayhem in the studio makes an alien invasion look like a piece of cake.

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January 27 Pinckneyville Open House / Vibrant Visions 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Berkeley Lake 678-277-0920, GwinnettParks.com Admission: free; preregistration required for free lunch All ages are invited to explore the pottery studio, meet the instructors and check out the programs. Visitors are also encouraged to bring a board and turn it into a vision board for their 2024 goals using a variety of available arts media.

January 31 and February 28 DIY Calming Activities for Children 4-5 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch 5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free Learn different ways to help children, aged 3 to 7, calm themselves so they can enjoy developing motor and pre-literacy skills.

Nails, Facials, Waxing and Custom Blends Make-Up

January 31-February 3 Godspell

OFF 10 Combo

Wednesday, 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m.

$

Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org, 770-448-7640

ANY FULLSET & PEDICURE Expires: February 29, 2024

29 S. Peachtree Street, Downtown Norcross | 678.691.9600 • NailsBeautySpaNorcross.com

About the show: The show is structured as a series of parables primarily based on the Gospel of Matthew. The music largely consists of lyrics from traditional hymns set to music.

February NEIGHBORS

February 2 First Friday Concert — The Rainmen

I AM MAGGIE DIAZ, YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE GUIDE.

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

7-9 p.m.

Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St.., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free

Let’s

connect!

(470) 429-4684

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

About the band: The Rainmen is a tribute band that specializes in the music of the 1960s and early 1970s, featuring songs from the Beatles, Kinks, Rolling Stones, Byrds and Doors.

MAGGIE@REALTORMAGGIEDIAZ.COM

WWW.REALTORMAGGIEDIAZ.COM

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

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February 2-3 Feed My Starving Children Mobile Food Packing Christ the King 5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners Christ the King Lutheran Church hosts a two-day mobile food packing event for Feed My Starving Children, fmsc. org. The church is committed to raise $30,000 to pack 101,088 meals for distribution to schools, orphanages, clinics and feeding programs globally with the goal of delivering hope and breaking the cycle of poverty. Individuals, businesses and groups are encouraged to donate, sponsor and participate.

February 3 Greenwood Culture Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lucky Shoals Park Community Center 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross 678-277-0860, GwinnettParks.com Admission: free Come one, come all to celebrate Black History Month with music, food and a parade.

February 4 Historic Cemetery Tour 2 p.m.

Norcross City Cemetery 65 Lawrenceville St., Norcross norcrossga.net Enjoy a journey through Norcross’s past with Gene Ramsay, local historian extraordinaire. Discover the tales behind the town’s founders and uncover the mysteries of street names like Buchanan and Jones.

February 8 Financial Literacy: Priorities, Setting Goals, Income and Expenses 4:30-6 p.m., Spanish; 6:30-8 p.m., English Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free This class provides participants with skills to help manage finances and begin preparing for long-term financial success. Topics include budgeting, determining financial priorities, and keeping track of income and expenses.

Presented in English and Spanish by the Norcross staff in partnership with Money Management International.

February 8 Peachtree Corners Photography Club Group Meet Up 6:45-8:15 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org Admission: free Photographers of all skill levels are welcomed; come early at 6:15 p.m. for social time.

About the show: GAC High School theatre students perform the Steven Sondheim musical that intertwines the stories of several Brothers Grimm characters.

February 10 Black Heritage Festival 1-4 p.m.

Shorty Howell Park Activity Building 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth 678-277-0900, GwinnettParks.com Admission: free Celebrate African American history and culture while enjoying music and food — and bring the whole family!

February 10 Valentines Night to Remember

NOW OPEN

6:30-8:30 p.m.

IN PEACHTREE CORNERS

Downtown Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Feel the love in the air as you cozy up in a carriage ride, renew your vows and capture the romance with a complimentary photo. Downtown Norcross restaurants are also offering Valentine’s specials.

February 12 Movie Mondays Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One

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

www.henrisbakery.com

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net

February 8 Lunar New Year 2024 4:30-6 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main S., Duluth gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free Also known as Spring Festival, Lunar New Year is the most important and most festive holiday of the year in many east and southeast Asian countries. Learn about the traditional celebration and create your own lion dance puppet, miniature origami and rattle drum. Supplies will be provided.

February 9-11 Into the Woods Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre

Admission: free About the movie: Ethan Hunt and his IMF team must track down a dangerous weapon before it falls into the wrong hands.

February 13 Mardi Gras Bingo Luncheon 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Berkeley Lake 678-277-0920, GwinnettParks.com Admission: $10 per Gwinnett resident, $15 per non-resident; registration required by Feb. 9 Adults aged 50+ are invited to join the Krewe for a traditional New Orleans-style lunch and some bingo.

1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross greateratlantachristian.org

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February 17 African American Folklore 2-3 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main S., Duluth gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154 Admission: free; registration recommended In honor of Black History Month, renowned storyteller Sharyn Riggs will render several captivating narratives that embody the African American experience.

February 26 Movie Mondays — The Woman King

February 29 Leap Day Origami Frogs and Time Capsules

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

5-6 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net

Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154

Admission: free

Admission: free

About the movie: This historical epic is inspired by true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Join the library for a Leap Day Celebration. Learn all about Leap Day and why it happens every four years. Then choose an activity — origami leaping frogs or making a time capsule to open on the next Leap Day.

February 24 Author Talk: Wanda M. Morris

Admission: free; registration recommended

About the show: Jon Trachtman and Leslie Arthur are out of work musicians who room together in New York City. To save money, Jon has been filing tax returns listing the pair as married.

The day of reckoning comes when the Internal Revenue Service informs the “couple” they’re going to be investigated. This classic farce is a cross between I Love Lucy and Some Like it Hot.

Wanda M. Morris will discuss her book, “Anywhere You Run,” about two sisters who, during the summer of 1964 in Jackson, Mississippi, are on the run — one from the law, the other from social shame. Books will be sold and available for signing from The Book Worm Bookstore.

1978 December. Her single “My Name Is Money” landed #36 on billboard hot 100 charts.

The Blue Dogs

The 8-man Yacht Rock Schooler specializes in the smooth sounds of the late 1970s and early 80s. This is the band for fans of Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald.

Hot Licks & Rhetoric: Steely Dan Tribute January 13. 8 p.m.

HL&R is an Atlanta-based nine-piece group that showcases and celebrates the timeless music of Steely Dan.

Musical Chairs with Sonia Leigh with Adam Mac and Angie K January 26. 8 p.m.

Sonia Leigh made her country catapult in 2011 with a major debut record

About the band: Carnelita Sabrosa brings together different cultures, flavors and rhythms for a blend of music that includes Latin jazz, pop and R&B.

Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022 Tickets: $18; students and seniors, $16

gwinnettpl.org, 770-978-5154

January 12. 8 p.m.

7-9 p.m.

Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St.., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free

Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main S., Duluth

Yacht Rock Schooner

March 1 First Friday Concert — Carnelita Sabrosa

March 1-17 Love, Sex and the IRS

7-8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth eddieowenpresents.com

March

February 8. 8 p.m.

January 27. 8 p.m.

For more than 30 years, South Carolina’s The Blue Dogs have been blending bluegrass, country, rock and soul in their unpredictable and upbeat live shows.

Stand Up Comedy Night Hosted by Yoshee!

Songwriters in the Round: Amelia White, Carter Sampson and Michelle Malone Amelia White has built a folk-pop catalog full of hooks and moody singing.

Oklahoma-bred Carter Sampson is a singer/songwriter whose songs resonate with the heartland. Michelle Malone has the soul of a bluesman, heart of a folksinger and guts of a rock and roll star.

R&B Inc. February 9. 8 p.m.

The nine-piece R&B and soul band R&B Inc. is made up of seasoned professionals who’ve entertained audiences and appeared with top artists for more than five decades.

Matthew Kaminski’s Mondo Hammondo February 10. 8 p.m.

A jazz organist, pianist, accordionist — and the official organist for the Atlanta Braves — Matthew Kaminski adventures into obscure music genres like Space Age Pop and Lounge Jazz.

February 2. 8 p.m.

The first Friday of the month features a night of comedy, hosted by Yoshee So. The Atlanta-based comic says he was raised by immigrant parents and TV sitcoms of the 80s and 90s.

►Barry Waldrep’s Allman Brothers Tribute

Love the One You’re With (An Evening of Love and Music)

February 3. 8 p.m.

February 17. 8 p.m.

Songwriter, instrumentalist and composer Barry Waldrep presents an intimate, laid-back tribute to the Allman Brothers Band.

Hey Dreamer and the Pussywillows perform a celebration of love.

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Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA 5600 W. Jones Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners facebook.com/FowlerY/ 770-246-9622

Every other Friday Lifelong Learners 12:15 p.m.

For ages 50 and up, Lifelong Learners offers seniors the chance to come together and enjoy guest speakers, local field trips and spirited cultural discussions. Held in the Senior Center.

For more information, contact Rob Wilson at robertw@ymcaatlanta.com.

Every Monday Grief and Loss Support Group 11 a.m.

Grief and loss are two of the most difficult emotions to face, but you don’t have to face them alone. This is a safe and caring environment for participants. Held in the Senior Meeting Room.

For more information, contact Ellie Garrett at ejgarrett@gmail.com.

Norcross Gallery and Studios

Every Tuesday Caring for Those Who Care

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

11:45 a.m.

The YMCA’s weekly Caregivers Group provides a dedicated meeting space for caregivers to offer and receive emotional support. If you are providing care for a loved one, or want to learn more about long term caregiving, this group is for you. The group offers practical information while respecting confidentiality and encouraging camaraderie.

Held in the Senior Meeting Room.

Nashville-based singer/songwriter Louise Mosrie is a classically trained singer and award-winning songwriter.

Marc Douglas Berardo writes charming, gripping songs about unusual characters and places.

The Spirit of Rush February 24. 8 p.m.

Georgia’s premier Rush tribute band performs the “Moving Pictures” album.

◄Lee Roy Parnell February 23. 8 p.m.

Guitar-slinger Lee Roy Parnell performs frequently at the Grand Ole Opry and has been inducted into the Texas Heritage Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.

Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m.

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

Daytime Open Studio Thursdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Other Senior Activities include:

Evening Open Studio Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.

Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members Moderator: Patty Grewe-Mullins, pgrewemullins@gmail.com

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

First Friday Breakfast

Business Organizations and Events

Friday, February 2. 7:30-9 a.m.

Atlanta Northeast Hilton, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Atlanta Tech Park

Admission: $28 for members, $35 for non-members; registration required.

107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 atlantatechpark.com, 404-797-1221

The speaker is Alfie Meek, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Economic Development Research at the Georgia Tech Enterprise Innovation Institute.

Friday, January 19. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

February 18. 8 p.m.

Live Model Sketch Group

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

Georgia AI Summit

Louise Mosrie & Marc Douglas Berardo

Ongoing

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

ATL Unlocked Wednesday, January 24. 6-8 p.m.

The second annual ATL Unlocked features Dean Andrews, Head of Developer Relations at Intersystems discussing their Comprehensive Start Up Program. There will be networking, drinks and small bites.

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Peachtree Corners Business Association 4989 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 215, Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersba.com, 678-969-3385 PCBA Lunch Club Thursday, January 18 and Wednesday, February 21. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Marlow’s Tavern, Peachtree Corners Town Center, 5210 Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Open to PCBA members and their guests. Advance registration is appreciated.

Meet up with PCBA members for an enjoyable way to network and save 15% off your lunch check.

PCBA Business After Hours Speaker Series

Office in Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners southwestgwinnettchamber.com 470-482-1899

Thursday, January 25. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast, 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

SWGC Coffee Connections Thursdays, January 18, 25 and February 8, 15, 22. 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Free admission for SWGC members and visitors.

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

Event registration is $40. Advanced registration is $25 for members and $35 for guests. Includes appetizers and drinks.

Business After Hours features Al Simon, consultant and coach with Sandler Neuberger and Company; he’ll discuss best practices for leveraging AI to grow business.

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PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup Tuesdays, February 13 and March 12.

8:30-9:30 a.m.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Free admission for PCBA members and their guests. Register online as space is limited.

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

PCBA Business After Hours — Celebrating Leap Year Latin Style Thursday, February 29. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Latin Fresh, 4941 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners Event registration is $40. Advanced registration is $25 for members and $35 for guests. Includes appetizers and drinks.

Join in the festivities and celebrate leap year with good food, beverages and networking at Latin Fresh, a fast casual restaurant chain inspired by Latin American cuisine.

Rotary Club of Peachtree Corners The Crossing Steakhouse 40 South Peachtree St., Norcross peachtreecornersrotary.org, 770-330-7477 Club Meetings Mondays, January 22 and 29. 12-1 p.m.

The January 22 meeting features Carole Townsend.

Duluth Business Association duluthbusiness.org Meetings held the second Tuesday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m.

Meeting locations are announced monthly.

Southwest Gwinnett magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Dreamy Date Nights for Every Budget Words by Kristen Corley and photos by Tracey Rice

R

omance ignites a spark in new relationships and keeps them running strong.

Yet, finding new places and free time can be stressful, making it all too easy for the flame to fizzle.

This winter, consider making a romantic date night in a new place a priority.

This date night guide caters to all budgets, offering choices from upscale dining to unique experiences and outdoor adventures.

Whether planning a grand romantic gesture or a simple, intimate outing, you’ll find the perfect setting to make your dates memorable.

Peachtree Corners Indulgent

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Thomas Minchella, H&W Steakhouse offers a refined and cozy setting for a romantic evening in Peachtree Corners.

Known for its USDA Prime steaks and top-notch seafood, the steakhouse features a 1940s-inspired decor that creates an intimate dining atmosphere.

Chuck Paul recounted a memorable experience at the restaurant: “H&W Steakhouse is without a doubt the nicest and most beautifully constructed restaurant in the Peachtree Corners area. The service we received was stellar, as was the food and attention to detail.”

Kristen Corley at one of her featured restaurants ― H&W Steakhouse (Photography by Tracey Rice)

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Customers have praised the restaurant’s luxurious and upscale ambiance, excellent live music and stellar customer service. In addition to the steak, guests rave about the cheesecake and oysters.

While the restaurant hasn’t been open very long, it has collected numerous positive reviews. Patrons appreciate the overall dining experience, including the food quality and the attentive service by the staff. Reservations are highly recommended.

Budget-friendly Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen is an energetic destination for a romantic date night. The charming eatery specializes in a fusion of Neapolitan and New York-style pizzas. Each pizza is baked to perfection in 800° F wood-fired ovens.

The inviting atmosphere of Fire & Stone, coupled with its excellent service, creates the perfect setting for a romantic evening. It’s a favorite spot for Ian and Elizabeth Schumacher.

“The crust is perfectly crispy, and the toppings are always fresh. It’s our favorite spot to pick up a pizza and then stroll to the nearby lawn for a picnic on the grass. Fire & Stone is great for affordable romantic date nights,” they said.

The restaurant’s full bar offers a selection of drinks, including gluten-free pizza options and a variety of tap beers. The vibrant yet intimate ambiance makes it a top choice for those

seeking a special place to connect and enjoy a memorable meal together.

and they go above and beyond to make the evening perfect,” they described.

Free

The restaurant is located on the third floor of 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Whether you’re looking for a seafood tower, an incredible wine list or a perfectly aged, bone-in ribeye, Frankie’s is firing off fantastic dishes every evening.

For couples seeking a romantic, cost-free date, Jones Bridge Park in Peachtree Corners is a wonderful choice. Nestled along the Chattahoochee River, visitors can enjoy the serene river overlooks or try their hand at fishing in designated areas.

Adventurous couples will enjoy the six miles of hiking trails. The sand volleyball court, playground and three soccer fields also make it great for a group outing.

The park offers ample opportunities for grilling, picnicking or enjoying the beautiful views.

Next, head to a show at Eddie Owen Presents: Red Clay Music Foundry (EOP) in downtown Duluth. EOP serves as a music venue, performance space and music school.

Big names are known to perform at this local theater, such as Jason Isbell, Shawn Mullins and Deanna Carter. Average ticket prices are $25 each. Check out the shows posted for the season and prepare for a fun and romantic evening!

Budget-friendly

Duluth Indulgent

Frankie’s The Steakhouse is one of Atlanta’s best Manhattan-style steakhouses – and it’s in Duluth! The atmosphere and service will make relaxing and enjoying your romantic date easy.

Drew and Kim Cooper of Braselton, Georgia, go out of their way to dine at Frankie’s.

“The environment is so unexpected inside of an office building; it’s really unique. You exit the elevator, and suddenly, you’re standing outside of a fine restaurant. It’s a special place

LR Burger in Duluth

For a low-key night that doesn’t break the bank, check out LR Burger. It’s the latest restaurant to open in downtown Duluth, and guests are raving about it. Grab a seat and a drink on the rooftop for scenic views and oneon-one conversation.

Afterward, walk to Eye Candy Art Studio, which offers unique pottery and canvas painting experiences. Couples can walk in without an appointment and select from hundreds of pottery pieces, with prices starting at just $10.

After painting, the pottery is left in the studio to be fired. It is ready for pickup in 7-10 days, creating a memorable keepsake of the date.

Whether pottery or canvas painting, Eye Candy Art Studio sets the stage for a playful and artistic evening.

Free Outdoor lovers will appreciate a day exploring McDaniel Farm Park. The public park offers approximately three miles of scenic trails, some shaded, perfect for a leisurely walk or run in nature.

It features two dog parks catering to both small and large breeds, making it an ideal spot for couples with pets.

The park’s historical farm setting provides an educational and visually appealing backdrop.

With its beautiful environment, the park is perfect for snapping memorable photos and spending the afternoon with a loved one.

Norcross Indulgent

The Crossing Steakhouse in downtown Norcross is an upscale yet welcoming setting for a romantic evening. This restaurant, set in a historic building that once served as a train station, adds a unique and nostalgic charm to the dining experience.

The occasional passing train sparks a lively buzz, enhancing the atmosphere for couples seeking a blend of elegance and excitement.

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Norcross residents Tyler and Nicole Hannel are two of the restaurant’s devoted pa-

ic Norcross in a converted church overlooking the city. There isn’t a bad seat in the house. The production selections and performances are rich, thought-provoking, and often comedic,” they said.

“And a mid-performance dessert break gives you a chance to stretch your legs outside the theater overlooking the beautifully lit city,” the couple added.

After the show, head to Iron Horse Tavern to throw darts, sing karaoke or play trivia.

Alternatively, cozy up in an armchair by the fireplace for a relaxing time with a loved one.

The American-British pub offers staples like shepherd’s pie, lobster grilled cheese and fish and chips. It also recently added oysters to the menu.

Free

The Crossing Steakhouse in Norcross

trons. “We love going to The Crossing because it’s a great, relaxed atmosphere with delicious food. It’s perfect as a date night for the two of us or a family dinner with the kids. The cocktails are also amazing!” they explained.

General Manager Michael Carroll recommends tasting the Pineapple Express cocktail, a pineapple-infused vodka made in-house. If cocktails aren’t your thing, be sure to try the crème brûlée, which is delivered with a fiery presentation.

Or take a short walk across the street to Butter & Cream for dessert. Some of their signature flavors include Butterscotch Brownie, Honeycomb Forest and OG Goodness, a brown sugar

ice cream with St. Louis butter cake pieces.

Budget-friendly Theater enthusiasts will appreciate seeing a play at Lionheart Theatre. Each ticket comes with dessert at intermission for $18 per person!

You’ll see a mix of new talent and seasoned performers.

Paul Milliken from Fox 5 News has even been known to grace the stage! Don and Michelle Osborne frequent the theater yearround.

“Lionheart Theater ticks all the boxes for a romantic night. It’s located in the heart of histor-

Enjoy a free exhibit at Norcross Gallery & Studios and a romantic afternoon in the park with your significant other. The gallery’s warm and intimate setting allows couples to explore diverse art exhibitions together.

As a non-profit established in June 2006, this venue serves as a gathering place for local artists and the community.

Situated at 116 Carlyle Street, the gallery creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for couples.

The gallery’s events, free and open to the public, are not just art showcases but are lively, engaging experiences ideal for a memorable date night.

The gallery’s commitment to fostering local art and community engagement, combined with its warm, inviting setting, makes it a unique and enriching spot for couples seeking a cultural experience without the expense.

This season, prioritize spending time with your loved one. You’ll surely discover a new favorite date night spot in the process! ##

The Ballyhoo performed at Lionheart Theatre

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Wordsmiths of Love Members of Georgia Romance Writers Share their Passion

I

Words by Patrizia Winsper

s there anything more romantic than a love letter from your beloved for Valentine’s Day — or any day for that matter — especially in today’s world of text messaging?

George Clooney and his wife Amal use this traditional method of sharing feelings. He slips letters onto Amal’s desk; she leaves them under his pillow. That’s how the Clooneys keep the spark in their romance.

But what if you and your partner aren’t writers?

We’re certainly not all comfortable sharing feelings on paper. Praise be to those who are, because so many find it irresistible to escape with a good love story.

Whatever your relationship status, for Valentine’s Day I’d like to introduce you to three local authors with unique styles and romantic stories we can all sink our teeth into. Grab a warm blanket and a cup of hot cocoa and join me by the fire on a journey to romance.

Anne Armistead Native Georgian Anne Armistead was inspired by her parents’ 50-year relationship.

“My dad wrote my mom letters and poetry,” Armistead said. “They only had eyes for each other.

I write as a tribute to them.”

“My mom never tired of telling about their meetcute,” she continued. “They both worked at the FBI building in Atlanta. My dad walked out of the elevator. My mom turned to her work pal and said, “See that good looking guy? I’m going to marry him.””

Since 2007, Armistead has devoted herself entirely to writing after teaching literature for 30 years.

Her fancy for storytelling started early. In the 60s, she wrote fan fiction based on her favorite episodic television shows because isolated plots that didn’t build from one episode to the next left her wanting. She craved extensions or different endings.

“My dad was a supreme storyteller. My mother, an avid reader. We were a big TV-watching and movie-going family. I was surrounded by words, dialogue and stories,” Armistead shared.

Once an empty nester, Armistead decided to earn an MFA in creative writing. Her first novel,

Anne Armistead

“Dangerous Conjurings,” was conceived in her writing workshop.

Stories that need to be told Having heard accounts about the African American Gullah population from her mother, Armistead was mesmerized and included them in her novel.

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“In South Carolina, my mother would watch the Geechee Gullah weave baskets, listen to them speak their own dialect and learn about the medicinal mixtures they made from roots,” Armistead recounted.

The historical romance with paranormal elements was published in 2018 despite challenges finding a publisher willing to take on a story about the Civil War. Some suggested she change the main characters into a Yankee family.

Knowing it wouldn’t work, Armistead persevered until she found a publisher in search of a Southern romance.

isfying happily-ever-after.

They enjoy tropes like enemies-to-lovers, a secret child, second chances, forbidden love and forced proximity.

“With Kisses from Cécile,” a story about redemption and friendship, was written in collaboration with Jan Agnello. It’s based on a true story about Angello’s great-grandmother and her French pen pal, and won the 2020 Georgia Independent Author of the Year Award in historical fiction.

The meet-cute is vital, as are sympathetic heroines, handsome heroes and a believable plot. Readers expect compelling subplots with captivating characters, along with a lovable main couple.

2024 goals

“A Tryst in Paris,” a 1900s Parisian time travel story, followed.

Armistead plans to focus on marketability, finding an agent and pivoting to Christmas in 2024, with hopes of access to Hallmark, Netflix, Lifetime, the CW and Amazon Prime.

She’s building story outlines with short, snappy dialogue that can easily transfer to screenplays.

Passion pivot After three historical fiction romances, Armistead is turning to closed-door, sweet, contemporary Christmas and sports trilogies.

“Sweet means there’s no erotica and closed door means no sex scenes,” she clarified. “My daughters would disown me if I were to write sex scenes. They say, “Don’t do anything but let them kiss.”

Without having to conduct historical research, Armistead suspects the writing will flow much faster. “I won’t have to stop and see how that corset goes on,” she said.

Creative process A visualization of setting and strife drive Armistead’s plot, then the development of characters able to carry the story’s weight.

“I sketch out a bullet-point plot using the Freytag plot line: inciting incident, three rising actions, climax, three falling actions and happily-ever-after,” she said.

Great romance In Armistead’s view, above all else, readers count on a crescendo of conflict concluding in a sat-

Where to look for love To learn more about Armistead, visit annearmisteadauthor.com. Her novels are available on Amazon, in paperback and Kindle formats, or print on demand. “. . . A kiss in the Christmas cold air, under a streetlight, next to an oversized lighted Santa, with fading strands of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” in the background? It’s as hokey as a scene in one of those Christmas movies.

But she loved those movies.” — excerpt from “A Christmas Cannoli Kiss” Joi Jackson

Worthwhile advice

She’s excited to explore older protagonists in her holiday series, creating characters of a certain age who will “live and breathe in readers’ imaginations.”

Armistead senses that people are seeking older protagonists. She’s envisioning multigenerational love stories among the 55+ residents, their children and their grandchildren.

Their enemies-to-lovers start led to 42 years of marriage, two daughters, two grandsons and four grand-dogs.

An unpublished free narrative verse novel — a story told in poetic vignettes — resides on Armistead’s computer, along with its various rejections. She hopes to self-publish it one day and already has ideas for a second verse novel “nibbling” at her.

Her protagonists “…kiss and flirt but when they go to the bedroom, it’s just the two of them.”

Until now, Armistead’s protagonists were 30-something. In the Christmas series, she’s targeting 40- to 60-year-old readers. The 55+ retirement community is a shift right on trend with the first Golden Bachelor.

fireplace,” she said.

she said.

Armistead shared words of encouragement for anyone considering writing a novel. “Persist. If you have a story inside clamoring to get out, don’t give up. Only 3% of those who start writing a novel complete it,”

“To write means WRITING. …No matter how lousy the words, let them come and burnish them with brilliance later,” she added.

Additionally, Armistead recommends growing thick skin, believing in your work even in the face of rejection, writing for the joy of it, not for the sake of publication, and seeking writing partners and critique groups for support and honest feedback.

“Our words must flow because we cannot keep them inside. And remember — the delete key is your friend,” she said.

Valentine’s Day plans An old movie buff, Armistead’s ideal Valentine’s Day is a dual celebration tying in her birthday, two days before.

She and her husband watch her favorite romantic drama, “Casablanca.” Their romantic ritual includes “sipping champagne and noshing on yummies off a charcuterie board in front of [the]

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Joi Jackson Her father’s untimely passing in 2019 spurred finance major Joi Jackson to begin writing STEM romances, which contain elements of science, technology, engineering or math.

It’s not a subgenre yet, but Jackson points out that romantasy (romantic fantasy) wasn’t either, until recently.

In November 2019, Jackson participated in National Novel Writing Month, which led to the release of her debut book, “To Catch a Catfish” in 2022. Emboldened by her first success, she has since published three additional novels.

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Target audience Jackson’s characters are generally their 30s. Her audience is mostly women in the 30 to 50-year-old range who enjoy diversity and a bit of spice.

By including characters of different racial backgrounds and sexual orientations, Jackson’s stories reflect the diversity of the real world. The atypical, curvy heroine in her debut novel has a programming background, loves dinosaurs, science and conducting internet research.

Before going virtual, Jackson worked in tech support at the Technology Center in Norcross. She combined her love for romance and technology, wanting to see more heroines in technical professions.

“As more women get into these careers, they’ll want to see themselves in love stories,” she explained.

A Business Applications Analyst, Jackson is working towards writing full-time. Currently, she writes nightly. Her weekends are spent marketing and volunteering with Romance Writers of America as a workshop coordinator.

A desire to connect with local writers drew Jackson to the Georgia Romance Writers.

“Writing can be lonely,” she said. Surrounding herself with others who understand the agony of writing oneself into a corner, a troublesome plot or characters gone rogue has been beneficial for her.

Her small-town steamy series — a collaborative effort with a group of authors — led to the publication of Jackson’s novels “Silver Santa,” “Sunshine and Silk Boxers” and “Bourbon and Bordeaux.”

The authors create their own stories within a shared world, the fictional town of Kissing Springs, Kentucky. “You could read one and know what’s going on. If you read all of them you get a fuller picture,” Jackson explained.

Hallmark After Dark “Initially, my goal was to have a story turn into a Hallmark movie, but my characters sometimes have filthy mouths and I write sex scenes,” Jackson chuckled.

One of Jackson’s associates coined the series “Hallmark After Dark.” Their stories are steamier than Hallmark movies.

“It can get pretty spicy,” she revealed. Wishing to

err on the subtle side of sensuality, she keeps her novels at two chili peppers.

I learned from Jackson that the degree of sexual content in a romance novel is measured on a scale of one to five chili peppers.

It’s important that authors describe their novels accurately so readers can select their desired heat level. They don’t want to disappoint anyone by making it hotter or colder than expected.

• One chili pepper is considered sweet. There’s basically no physical contact and barely any kissing or hugging.

Any flutters are emotional, not from arousal.

• Two chili peppers, a warm heat rating, includes kissing. It may allude to, but doesn’t depict, sexual encounters. No references are made to arousal, though maybe some tingles.

• Three chili peppers mean there’s explicit love-making scenes with lust, arousal and titillating details.

• Four chili peppers describe racy, more overt sex scenes that include spicy bits and risqué language.

• Five chili peppers denote erotic content and darker romances — one step before erotica and some kinky activity.

I’d elaborate but this must remain PG-13!

Let’s not keep it real The men in Jackson’s novels are super fit. In addition to muscular bodies, she gives them wealth. They’re gents who adore pampering women.

“Fairy tale guys — that’s what women want. Reality is totally different,” she laughed.

Jackson sometimes runs her ideas past her husband. He’ll flag anything that crosses into the realm of “something no guy would ever do.”

How does Jackson keep the steamy parts from sounding the same from one story to the next?

“Sex scenes are different for each couple,” Jackson shared. “I let the couple’s personalities and chemistry drive it.”

Creative process Something captures Jackson’s interest on TV or in a movie, gets modernized, given a twist and entered into the author’s game of “What if?”

Once she’s fleshed out an idea, she transfers it to note cards.

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“I’m a plotter. I want an outline of everything that’s going to happen in the book before I start.

Otherwise, I meander and things that need to be in the book may not happen. I keep myself reined in by outlining everything,” Jackson explained.

With a solid framework and clear ideas about where the book is going, she begins writing. The author confided, “Sometimes I slip, and the characters take over.”

As the novel progresses, Jackson sends samples to editors and reviews their comments. “It’s important to have another set of eyes on a novel, especially when you’ve been writing for months, maybe years,” she stated.

Great romance Jackson cites a captivating initial meeting, whether it’s a disaster or there’s an undeniable spark. Characters with interesting careers that allow readers to learn something are her favorite.

Lastly, Jackson appreciates a heroine who excels at her job, even if the rest of her life is a mess.

To readers hesitant about embracing romance, Jackson encourages you give it a whirl. “There are so many subgenres to explore — everything from sweet stories to taboo stuff. ...There’s something for everyone,” she said.

2024 goal Hearing that managers have been given some leeway to include local authors in stores, Jackson aspires to see her books on bookshelves at Barnes & Noble.

Worthwhile advice For aspiring writers, Jackson offers some welcome encouragement. “It’s OK if your first draft is awful,” she said. “Get it done. Polish it later.”

The author added: It’s never too late to write a book.

Valentine’s Day plans Even romance writers can by annoyed by the price gauging that’s all too typical of Valentine’s Day! Married for 13 years, Jackson has sought unique ways to celebrate February 14, like going to the symphony or to a night of jazz at the High Museum.

Where to look for love Jackson’s books are available on all the major platforms: Apple, Google, Kobo and Barnes & Noble online. Learn more about the author at purplepeacockpress.com. “… She raised a hand to her own lips, recalling precisely how good his felt...” — excerpt from “Silver Santa”

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apart initially — whether it’s workplace restrictions (an employee/boss relationship) or friend code related (falling for your bestie’s brother) or personal views (closed-off to love) — the hiccup needs to be believable.

Lastly, Liota stressed the importance of good dialogue. Clever exchanges between characters are imperative; communication is a fundamental part of a budding romance.

“Cheesy lines and cliches have their place,” she conceded.

Romantic at heart Besides being fueled by the intoxicating notion of happily ever after, Liota’s own love story with her husband informs her writing.

Jillian Liota

Jillian Liota Having relocated to Georgia from Hawaii, author Jillian Liota said she and her husband are enjoying their new home in Suwanee.

Romance is Liota’s genre of choice when it comes to writing. “I love love, and I believe everyone deserves a happily ever after. …The world needs that,” Liota said.

Her proclivity for writing was evident early on. As a teenager, she scripted tales about her crushes.

An initial career in education was sidestepped when her father passed away in 2013. She became hooked on the romance novels she consumed as a distraction.

After learning about the writing journey of

the esteemed Colleen Hoover — best known for her 2016 novel “It Ends with Us” — on the author’s blog in 2014, Liota decided to try her own hand at romance novels.

“I published my first book in November 2016 and …never looked back,” she said.

Liota has produced an impressive list of contemporary, new adult romance novels. There are four books, so far, in her Cedar Point series: “The

Trouble with Wanting,” “The Opposite of Falling,” “The Start of Someday” and “The Problem with Perfect.”

Both her Hermosa Beach series and Like You series have four titles available, while her Sandalwood series and Keeper Duet series have two books each, to date. If that’s not enough to choose from, Liota has also produced collections of short stories and poetry.

Scattered and peppered Unlike Jackson, who meticulously plots her stories, Liota said she is a “pantser.” That is, she likes to fly by the seat of her pants with the story unfolding as she writes.

“Writing romance is an extension …I’m able to take the over-abundance of love that I have and pour it out on the page,” she said. “I get joy out of writing romance because it excites me to create characters who find a love as deep as mine.”

Worthwhile advice If you’re an aspiring author and feel unsure about where to begin, Liota suggested, “…start by writing a sentence. Then another one. …You can’t edit a blank page,” she said. “Write, write, write.”

The finetuning can happen later.

For those who’ve started their writing journey but can’t move beyond the first few chapters, Liota said it’s best not to focus on critiques at first.

“You have to push through that resistance and just keep going if you want to actually complete a book,” she advised.

Liota credits her characters with guiding the conve r s a t i o n s and actions.

“My writing process is a bit scattered. I usually have an idea of who the characters are and maybe a scene or two in my head.

But other than that, I just sit down and start,” Liota said.

Valentine’s Day plans

The author rates her romances a four on the chili pepper scale.

Find Liota’s 15 published novels and novellas on Amazon. They’re also available on Kindle Unlimited. Learn more about the author at jillianliota.com.

Great romance According to Liota, a great romance novel comprises a relatable main character whose choices, fears and desires readers can identify with.

The second ingredient of a deliciously steamy romance, in Liota’s view, is credible conflict. Something seemingly real must keep the protagonists

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You’ll find Liota and her husband enjoying the holiday celebrating love. They take turns every other year planning a Valentine’s Day adventure for two.

One example she gave is a surprise road trip to feast on his favorite tacos. “It’s usually a whole day extravaganza,” Liota said. “We have so much fun.”

The author made it a point to caution against reserving the show of affection for one day only.

“We celebrate each other constantly, so while Valentine’s Day is a fun time, it isn’t the end-all, be-all,” Liota stressed.

Where to look for love

“Love scares you, because the men who were supposed to give love to you in the past let you down, made you believe it was something so much smaller than it really is. They made you believe it isn’t worth the trouble, and that is a lie.”

— excerpt from “The Trouble with Wanting” ##

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The Science of Generosity How Giving Back Can Enhance Physical and Mental Well-Being Words by Arlinda Smith Broady “We all use this phrase now. [I’d been] using it in my role all the time. And then I started not liking the phrase,” Jennings said. “Then I struck it from my language and thought … I’m not going to say, ‘giving back’ when it comes to what professionals and businesses do.”

When dissecting the phrase, he said, “It comes out of a scarcity mindset.” “[The phrase] ‘giving back’ means first you receive. Then, when you have enough, maybe you give back. The words also sit in the future, like giving back is something we’ll do one day when we’ve made it or when we feel successful enough to give back,” he explained.

He added that most human beings in this world are living paycheck to paycheck.

“They’re just trying to survive today. The idea of having a margin that they can give back is not even an option for them,” he said. “This is really what started bothering me. I started thinking a little—what’s the word?”

He knew there must be a more significant concept than just giving back. It turned out to be generosity.

A

What does generosity truly mean?

Keith Jennings (Photo by Anna Del Villar)

t the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday Breakfast, Keith Jennings, vice president of community impact at Jackson Healthcare, noticed a commonality among the members in the room—dedication.

“I know for a fact, you’re not here in this room today because I’m here. You’re here [to show] your dedication to this chamber and its mission and the great work you are doing in this community,” he said. “I hope something I share today connects with you, maybe even bothers you to the extent that you try some new generosity tactics.”

As the country’s third-largest healthcare staffing firm and the seventh-largest private company in metro Atlanta, Jackson Healthcare has a corporate philosophy of serving the greater good.

That’s why its culture goes beyond healthcare staffing search and technology. Its mission and corporate values of “others first” as well as “wisdom and growth” serve as a “true north,” according to the organization’s corporate literature.

More than giving back In his presentation, Jennings set out to reframe the definition of generosity. Utilizing the phrase “giving back” isn’t wrong, he said, but it doesn’t fully encompass what generosity is.

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“Generosity comes out of an abundance mindset. We can be generous anytime, with anyone.

It’s not something you have to wait for,” said Jennings.

“When we feel successful or feel like we’re not, we can be generous. … And it’s inclusive. The most generous human beings I’ve ever met have far less than I do. And yet, they were extraordinarily generous people,” he added.

The different types of generosity “The first level of generosity is kindness,” said Jennings. “Hold the door open for someone, smile, look in someone’s eyes and listen.”

He described the glass elevators at Jackson Healthcare. People in the elevator have to look

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at others, make eye contact and wave. Additionally, all the microwaves are on the first floors of its buildings, so people have opportunities to engage in conversation.

“We’ve designed elements of our campus to foster conversation and communication, going back to this idea of trying to give people collision points for kindness,” he explained.

“Giving is what we tend to think of when we think of generosity—giving our time, giving money, giving advice, giving out experiences and what we have to offer to others,” he said.

“But advocacy is also a type of generosity—being a voice for people without a voice or standing in solidarity,” he added.

How does being generous affect us?

Jennings mentioned an article in Psychology Today that examined the neurochemical drivers of doing generous acts. Biological reactions involving dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and dopamine stimulate the brain’s pleasure centers and send messages.

“Dopamine is activated in fight or flight scenarios, real or imagined. Serotonin is related to mood and many other things. Oxytocin is called the cuddle hormone. It’s our sense of bonding and trust in our relationships,” Jennings said.

of oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. They call this the ‘happiness trifecta,’” he elaborated.

When this happens repeatedly, over time, it has immense mental and physical health benefits, he added, citing research done through Notre Dame’s Templeton Foundation.

Learning more about generosity Jennings concluded his presentation by inviting everyone to join a movement that is championed by more than 1,500 companies throughout the state.

GoBeyondProfit focuses on the collective level of generosity in workplaces. Founded in 2017 and fully funded by Jackson Healthcare, the initiative is open to all and is entirely free.

“We just want business leaders to share their ideas and get together and have a community together. If you want to become a member, just go to the website and sign the form,” said Jennings.

“When we think of corporate generosity or philanthropy, we think of it as businesses going out into the communities. But we tend not to think that should start internally,” he added.

For more information about the work Jennings is doing, visit jacksonhealthcare.com and gobeyondprofit.org/research. ##

From left to right, Audrey Boyce, Keith Jennings and Betsy Corley Pickren

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The Forum Peachtree Corners Upgrades Coming More Green and Gathering Space, a Food Hall, New Retail and Advance Safety Technology Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

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ith the major holiday shopping done and the new year at hand, The Forum Pe a c h t re e Corners is moving ahead with plans announced last year to upgrade the 500,000-square-foot development.

One of the most anticipated changes is the creation of Politan Row, a chef-driven food hall that will further cement The Forum as a desir-

Rendering of the central area of The Forum (Courtesy of The Forum)

able destination beyond retail.

“The Politan Group has signed an agreement with us to open a food hall with seven different stalls inside, which is going to be on the North Plaza that we just completed,” said General Manager Sue Storck.

“They’re very chef-driven, smaller concepts.

It’s not going to be chains. It’s going to be more locally owned and have a very diverse menu,” she added.

Situated between Aomi, a Japanese restaurant, and women’s wear retailer Soma, Politan Row is the third food hall concept under North American Properties (NAP), the real

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estate and development firm that owns The Forum.

Trendy new dining options nearly 10,000-square-foot structure will also feature Bar Politan, a private event venue, and an outdoor patio in front of the greenspace.

Politan Group is also activating the adjacent jewel box (a stand-alone structure not attached to the rest of the property), housing a restaurant and wine bar separate from the food hall.

According to a news release, the brand will be announced as the project nears completion.

Although the chef lineup hasn’t yet been finalized, fans of the concept at Colony Square may see a few familiar faces and fresh, up-andcoming talent.

NAP chose to partner with the Politan Group for its hands-on approach to hospitality, similar to how NAP manages its mixed-use portfolio. Like all other locations, Politan Row at The Forum will ensure top-notch service from entry to exit.

Another factor setting this space apart is its use of Fine China, real silverware and proper glassware.

NAP administration said that the most distinctive characteristic of Politan Group is its design-forward mentality, which focuses on creating elevated dining destinations that draw people in and inspire them to connect over food.

Rendering of the central area of The Forum (Courtesy of The Forum)

More entertainment options

The North Plaza of The Forum near Aomi and the planned Politan Row

The North Plaza was completed at the end of October, and the next phase of development is expected to begin by the middle of January.

Another larger plaza will be built in the central area of the property between Pottery Barn and seafood restaurant Peche.

“We’ll be adding an LED screen there so that we can host movie nights and do sports on the screen,” said Storck. “We can also have that area for our music performances that we will do again this year. All our events will be hosted in that area.”

The Forum will also add valet parking on a limited schedule at that end of the property.

“It’s going to be the unpaid gathering space for the property,” said Storck. “That Central Plaza area will be a greenspace and central gathering space for the property.”

“There will be furniture and seating out there so folks can just gather and either enjoy time with family or they will be able to partake in our events,” Storck explained.

“We’ll continue to have our live music events and our weekly fitness and children’s events that we’re probably going to bump up to two a month starting in the spring because they have been very successful,” she added.

In the summer and fall, the Central Plaza area will be able to host all those events, along with college football games, family movie nights, and more.

Upgrades to safety When NAP acquired The Forum, it immediately increased security to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

There are now more officers from the Gwinnett County Police Department and officers from Peachtree Corners’ new Marshal program on the property as well.

“We hire off-duty police for the busy times or

for the weekends,” said Storck.

Yet, with the rise in theft, more needed to be done.

According to the National Retail Federation’s 2023 National Retail Security Survey, external theft, including organized retail crime (ORC), accounted for an average of 36% of retail sales losses in 2022. Now more than ever, brands and landlords alike are seeking tools to mitigate this issue.

Organizations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) are advocating for both through Congressional support for the INFORM Consumers Act and S. 140/H.R. 895, the bipartisan “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023.”

In response to this rising threat, NAP has invested in bridging software from two Atlanta-based companies, Flock Safety and Fusus, to enhance its security measures at The Forum.

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“With our ongoing commitment to revolutionizing the retail real estate industry through technology and innovation, we are proud to partner with local municipalities and law enforcement agencies on curating secure communities for our guests, tenants and employees,” said Jay Richard-Yu, NAP’s director of innovation and digital assets.

“Technology has the power to automate workflows, and binding these assets will provide management with an advanced, interconnected approach toward combating ORC at The Forum,” he added.

Flock Safety’s license plate recognition software Co-founded by Georgia Tech alumni Garrett Langley and Matt Feury in 2017, Flock Safety is an all-in-one technology solution

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designed to eliminate crime and keep communities safe.

Flock License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras provide objective evidence to help solve crimes, 70% of which are committed with a vehicle, and prevent potential issues, including shoplifting, parking lot break-ins and vehicle theft.

The cameras capture license plates and vehicle characteristics, not people or faces, and send real-time alerts to security personnel and law enforcement when a vehicle associated with a known offender or endangered person passes the camera.

Flock Safety is trusted by more than 4,000 communities across the country and has raised over $330 million in venture capital from leading firms such as Andreessen Horowitz, Axon Bedrock Capital, and Matrix Partners, among others.

The Forum has been equipped with Flock LPR cameras for two years. NAP bolstered the property’s security infrastructure this fall through a public-private partnership with the City of Peachtree Corners, adding 27 external cameras across the site.

To further streamline surveillance and communication processes between the onsite security team and local law enforcement, Fūsus has also been integrated into the multi-layered camera system through its proprietary CORE appliance.

southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Fusus currently powers over 250 crisis command centers globally.

Earlier this year, the company was ranked 70th on Inc. Magazine’s list of 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies and named a Best Place to Work by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

It has also received several Stevie American Business Awards and ASTORS, the preeminent U.S. Homeland Security awards program. ##

Furthermore, the company has recently ranked on the 2023 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 and has been acknowledged as one of the top 4% of companies on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies list.

Streamlining critical communications with Fusus

SCAN THE QR CODE

Merging resources into a single, efficient and unified stream of information, Fusus allows for policy-based, intelligence-led policing and faster emergency response times.

Fusus was Launched in Peachtree Corners during the summer of 2019 by U.S. Navy veteran Chris Lindenau, CEO, and U.S. Army veteran Anthony Baldoni, COO. Fusus is a cloud-based, Real-Time Crime Center and Security Operations platform that extracts and unifies live video, data and sensor feeds from public and private sources, enhancing law enforcement agencies’ situational awareness and investigative capabilities.

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New long-term retailers at The Forum •

Giulia: Opening this winter

•

High Country Outfitters: Now open

•

Lovesac: Opening in 2024

•

Lululemon: Now open

•

Peche: Now open

•

Petfolk: Opening in 2024

•

Politan Row: Opening in 2024 (seven chef driven dining concepts)

•

Stretchlab: Opening this winter

New short-term retailers at The Forum •

Auburn Candle Co.

•

The Baby Nook

•

Gifts We All Want

•

Girl Tribe Co.

•

Go! Calendars, Toys, and Games

•

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Southwest Gwinnett magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Norcross Settles into Phase 1 of Greenspaces Project Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

W for greenspaces.

ith so much commercial and residential growth happening in Norcross, city leaders took a step back to assess the plan

“It all started with a lot of development going on in the past 23 years,” said Michael Jones, Superintendent of Parks and Recreation.

“There’s been housing, apartments, etcetera going on and we took note that the Parks Master Plan in 2011 was updated in 2016 but needed [another assessment],” he added.

City council members agreed that the public should have as much input as possible. Thus, the Parks Green Space and Trails Com-

mission was created.

“It was established to get more accurate feedback on what residents want and need in the green spaces in the city limits,” Jones said.

“Since it was created, we ended up discussing doing another parks plan that fits in with all the development and a lot of people moving into the city.”

Collecting community feedback With Norcross becoming more diverse, city leaders felt the new plan should reflect that diversity.

“We wanted to get information back from different people—different religions and races, to make sure [more voices] were reflected in what was going to be implemented into the Parks Master Plan project,” said Jones.

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Now, the city is in the process of gathering input by advertising to the public. The city has created flyers, brought the project up at various functions, and created a website that keeps residents and stakeholders informed about the progress and the timeline.

“We try to retrieve all that information to make sure that we’re emphasizing and inputting their feedback into the project,” said Jones.

Although parks, trails and greenspaces are an important part of the city’s make-up, every-

thing has to work together. Housing and commercial spaces are just as important.

“We’re all in communication with one another,” said Jones. “Our community development division has a project going on as well. We’re taking note of the different projects we have and trying to tie them all in with one another.”

Looking beyond Norcross One important factor is working to connect each park to create a walking campus within the city limits.

“We’d like to have a trail similar to what they’re doing in Dekalb County and some of the areas in the metro with the Path Project and the Silver Comet Trail in Cobb County,” he said.

Jones said the lead contractor had the idea to build on another project that would make Norcross a part of a trail from Auburn to Lawrenceville.

Images Courtesy of the City of Norcross

The Norcross section will connect at Lilburn.

“That’s one of the opportunities,” said Jones.

“We are trying to join existing projects in phases.”

For right now, nothing has been finalized.

“This is still in the discovery stage where we walk through what greenspaces we have, assess what type of condition they are in and see if anything could be upgraded,” said Jones.

“Then, we have to look hard at where we’d like to go.”

Using your voice All Norcross residents, from youth to seniors, are invited and encouraged to share their input because the plan is intended to be a community-driven process. The outcome and future recommendations are expected to be guided by the needs of community members.

The public is encouraged to get involved by attending public meetings, participating in online input opportunities and sharing feedback on social media or through email.

The consultant team has a Spanish speaker, and public meeting materials will be available in multiple languages.

By the publication date of this article, the online survey will have ended, but the work will be far from over.

“The next step will put the information from the survey on the agenda for us to present as an actual plan to the council,” said Jones.

With funds allocated now, the city doesn’t want to take too long to decide what to do.

With construction costs rising, interest rates at record levels and a growing population, it is essential to get improvements underway.

“We want to get this going as soon as possible,” said Jones. “The costs have been approved. ...

So, we want to utilize the funds while they’re available.”

Learn more about the Norcross Parks, Greenspaces and Trails Master Plan at ppd.mysocialpinpoint.com/norcross-pgt-plan. ##

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Southwest Gwinnett magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Solis Peachtree Corners Broke Ground this December Next to Town Center In December, Mayor Mike Mason and Councilwoman Lori Christopher took part in the groundbreaking for the new Solis Peachtree Corners community. Solis Peachtree Corners is a 249 luxury apartment units that will be located adjacent to Peachtree Corners Town Center, a mixed-use destination with 15 restaurants, a grocery store, a movie theatre, retail shops, offices, and the 2-acre Town Green park.

The community is located along the Peachtree Corners Trail System, an 11.6-mile trail network that links Town Center with Technology Park.

The project is being constructed by Peachtree Corners general contractors Fortune-Johnson on behalf of development company Terwilliger Pappas.

Rendering of the Solis Peachtree Corners

Groundbreaking with company, community and city representatives.

Mayor Mike Mason

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Aurora Theater Presents a Look Back at an Iconic Children’s TV Show ‘Butterfly in the Sky’ Tells the Story of the Beloved TV Series ‘Reading Rainbow’ Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

I

n celebration of reading and literacy, the Aurora Theatre will be screening the documentary at the Lawrenceville Arts Center as part of the South Arts Southern Circuit of Independent Filmmakers.

“Butterfly in the Sky” tells the story of the PBS children’s series “Reading Rainbow” as well as its iconic host, American actor and director LeVar Burton. The documentary takes a deep dive into the challenges its creators faced when trying to cultivate a love of reading through television.

The event, in partnership with Gwinnett County Public Library, is set for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6.

Take a look, it’s in a book Not only did the series insist on having kids

Reading Rainbow was hosted by actor and executive producer LeVar Burton

Dr. Twila C. Liggett is the Creator of the outstanding PBS Children’s TV series Reading Rainbow which premiered on PBS in 1983

talk to their peers about their favorite stories, but Reading Rainbow also introduced the world to one of the most adored television hosts of all time, LeVar Burton.

Thanks to his direct, non-patronizing, and, most importantly, kind delivery, Burton became a conduit of learning for children from every background.

This specific showing is part of the South Arts program of the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers.

“South Arts has done this beautiful job of creating these little circuits here in … the Southern states where they put together 56 cities and 56 locations,” said John Geertsen, Complex General Manager of Lawrenceville Arts Center.

“We give them a short list. … For a week, that film tours that circuit. The beauty of the Georgia circuit is all the locations are within two to two and half hours of each other,” he added.

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Whoopi Goldberg served as an executive producer on the documentary

The show would end with suggested reading for people interested in the show’s themes - these books were usually presented with a brief review from kids.

Aurora Theater has a total of six films in the deal. It already screened three in the fall and the remaining three begin in February with “Butterfly in the Sky.” The others will be announced at a later date.

Reading Rainbow’s cultural impact “You can’t talk about reading in America, libraries, literature, literacy or popular culture without talking about Reading Rainbow,” said Geertsen. “The TV series is for lack of a better term, in the zeitgeist.”

He explained that when people of a certain generation hear the opening refrain of the theme song, they immediately perk up because it conjures fond memories of childhood.

“All of our partners on the circuit selected it,” said Geertsen. “It was the film that everybody jumped to quite quickly.”

Yet, the event goes beyond just the screening.

The Aurora Theater will also be the site of a literacy festival.

“For about three hours prior to the screening, we’re going to invite Gwinnett County independent booksellers to come and hang out,” he said. “We’ve partnered with the library, which will be helping with an excellent promotional campaign.”

A fun event for the whole community Bringing the community together for the sake of literacy is what Gwinnett County Public Li-

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brary is all about.

“We are so excited to be involved with the screening of ‘Butterfly in the Sky.’ We hope this documentary reminds our community about the importance of reading and how literacy can change lives,” said Duffie Dixon, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Gwinnett County Public Library.

“We think that it’ll be a good day to get folks in here, and the mobile library is going to be here, which is very exciting,” said Geertsen. “There will certainly be something for everyone.” ##

Aurora Theatre at the Lawrenceville Arts Center presents “Butterfly in the Sky” 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6 Lawrenceville Arts Center Aurora Theatre Clyde & Sandra Strickland Grand Stage 125 N Clayton St., Lawrenceville Learn more about the film at rocofilms.com/films/butterfly-in-the-sky/

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PCBA Donates Thousands of Dollars to Community Programs Rainbow Village, Good Samaritan and Corners Outreach among Recent Non-profit Recipients

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n the spirit of community engagement and philanthropy, the Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) has been at the forefront of supporting local initiatives and charities within the greater metro Atlanta area.

Through the generosity of its members, sponsors and the wider community, the PCBA has made significant contributions to various organizations. Let’s take a closer look at three of the deserving recipients.

Rainbow Village PCBA awarded a check for $4,500 at the October 2023 Business After Hours event to Rainbow Village.

This charity’s primary focus is to be change-makers who are moving the needle towards ending homelessness through educational, support-driven and compassionate programming that embraces unique paths and sustainable progress.

“The PCBA Outreach Committee and the Board were impressed with Rainbow Village and its mission to transform the lives of families experiencing homelessness

by providing help, hope, housing, and healing in order to instill initiative, self-development and accountability,” said Lisa Proctor, PCBA’s President.

“We were proud to share the presentation of this check with our members and guests at our recent PCBA Business After Hour event in October, allowing everyone to celebrate in this milestone donation,” she added.

Good Samaritan PCBA also awarded a check for $4,500 to Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett at the November 2023 Business After Hours event.

Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett (Good Sam Gwinnett) is a nonprofit organization committed to caring for the uninsured and underinsured working poor in the community.

Good Sam’s primary focus is providing quality, affordable and accessible primary healthcare and dental services to the poor and underinsured at their two locations in Norcross.

“The PCBA Outreach Committee and Board are impressed with this worthy charity and its mission to help our community,” commented Proctor.

Top down: Top: L to R, Michael Pugh, PCBA Board; Audrey Boyce, PCBA Outreach; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Joy Holmes, Rainbow Village; Suzanna Martinez, PCBA Board; Donna Linden, PCBA Board; and Allison Reinert, PCBA Board Middle: L to R, Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Gregory Lang, Good Samaritan; Greg Johnson, Good Samaritan; Donna Linden, PCBA Board; and Michael Pugh, PCBA Board Bottom: L to R, Suzanna Martinez, PCBA Board; Audrey Boyce, PCBA Community Outreach; Donna Linden, PCBA Board; Cinthia Valdez, Corners Outreach; Adrianne Hamilton-Butler, Corners Outreach; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board; and Michael Pugh, PCBA Board

2022 Dash

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“We were excited to present this check to Gregory Lang, Ph.D. Executive Director, and Greg Johnson, Director, at our recent PCBA Business After Hour Speaker event, so our members had the opportunity to celebrate with us and learn how this organization supports our community,” she explained.

“The PCBA is proud to donate a check for $4,500 to one of three charities we raised money for at our annual charity event this year.

Our Outreach Committee and Board are impressed with Corners Outreach programs including Corners Academy, Workforce Development, Family engagement, and Corners Industry,” said Proctor.

Corners Outreach

“We are so proud that the PCBA can continue our commitment to supporting our community and charities like Corners Outreach, which continues to grow and expand to meet our community’s critical needs.”

PCBA awarded an additional check for $4,500 to Corners Outreach at the December 2023 Business After Hours Year-End Celebration event.

The mission of Corners Outreach is to equip metro Atlanta’s underserved students of color and their families to lead full lives through educational development and economic opportunities.

Corners Outreach’s envisions one community where every person thrives, no matter their color, status or background.

HOW TO

Reduce Owner Dependence When Selling

Funds for the PCBA Community Outreach program are raised throughout the year from PCBA membership, sponsorship, and our annual charity event.

Through the end of December 2023, the PCBA has awarded over $151,100 and 17 scholarships back into the community. ##

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Your New Year’s Health Resolutions Just Got a New Primer Peachtree Corner’s MAGISNAT Announced New Patents and Wellness Tests They Say Will Open the Black Box of Our Cellular Health Words by Carol Casey and photos by Tracey Rice

Left at the Georgia State Capitol, the MAGISNAT team including Matteo Bertelli, Kevin Donato, Pietro Chiurazzi, Ludovico Seppilli, Maria Chiara Medori and Gabriele Bonetti.

Among the guests were Nick Mason (Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce), Robin Bienfait and Nashlee Young (Atlanta Tech Park), Deven Cason (Partnership Gwinnett), Eva Alvino (Italian Vice Consul General in Miami) and others.

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Pushing functional and integrative medicine to the next level Founder Dr. Matteo Bertelli, M.D., Ph.D., says the MAGISNAT OMICS “Machine” patent is a robust research engine that tracks cellular activity and pathways throughout the body.

“Individuals can also test and monitor how changes are moving them toward better health outcomes and wellbeing and adjust their plan, if necessary,” he added.

This research helped create science-based wellness tests, which allow individuals to see how their unique genetics interact with diet and lifestyle choices. It has also helped to develop nutritional supplements based on micronutrients from the Mediterranean diet.

“Our OMICS tests give individuals an unprecedented look at what is happening inside their bodies. They will be able to open the black box of molecular health and receive recommendations about diet, physical activity and supplementation that can treat current nutritional deficiencies and identify potential future deficiencies based on DNA markers,” said Bertelli.

Local, county and state officials attend the Capitol press conference

ith the Georgia State Capitol as a backdrop, Magisnat announced significant research and patent milestones for its biotech company centered around personalized

For more than 15 years, MAGISNAT has collaborated with university researchers across the U.S. and Italy in OMICS-based research, analyzing how our bodies operate on a molecular level.

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Above, Kevin Donato

MAGISNAT is a U.S. subsidiary of Italy-based The Magi Group. The company chose

Left top, MAGISNAT presentation at Atlanta Tech Park.

Bottom row from left, Devon Cason and Nick Masino.

New patents signal breakthroughs in personalized wellness Bertelli, Donato and the MAGISNAT team outlined the patents they say are poised to empower individuals to fight non-communicable diseases, including: • The OMICS Machine, where multi-OMICS data is used to build a map of major molecular pathways in the human body, leading to personalized diet and lifestyle recommendations.

• A key genetic factor identified in Lipedema susceptibility and two patent-pending treatments designed to help prevent the onset of Lipedema and treat existing Lipedema inflammation.

• A breakthrough in appetite regulation by identifying amino acids that can be used to modulate appetite in eating disorders.

Peachtree Corners as its U.S. hub as part of an effort facilitated by the Georgia Governor’s office, Partnership Gwinnett, Atlanta Tech Park, and the Italian Embassy.

“We appreciate the pro-business environment in the U.S., particularly in Georgia, and appreciate the support from local and state organizations,” said Bertelli.

Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce Chair Nick Masino says life science companies like MAGISNAT are one of the top five target industries in the county’s economic strategy.

“Life science companies create beneficial and high-paying innovative jobs of the future. One of the perks for companies choosing Gwinnett County is our public school system, which leads the nation in STEM school development,” said Masino.

Deven Cason, Vice President of Economic Development at Partnership Gwinnett, said the county recruits domestic and international companies to locate their corporate headquarters or U.S. hub in Gwinnett County.

“We have a pipeline of talent we bring to the table to help companies like MAGISNAT. The secret to our success is our strategic partnerships

with organizations across the state including the Governor’s Department of Economic Development, the Metro Atlanta Chamber, local cities and educational institutions. It’s a team effort to ensure companies have the resources they need to succeed,” said Cason.

MAGISNAT unveils patents at Atlanta Tech Park MAGISNAT also outlined details of their latest scientific discoveries and patents at an event at Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners.

MAGISNAT Deputy President Kevin Donato said that if you open a medical textbook, you will find virtually no words about self-healing.

“The body has a powerful ability to heal itself.

With knowledge about how their bodies function, individuals can focus on preventing noncommunicable diseases. The tests we have designed are advancing wellness through science and putting detailed knowledge in the hands of individuals about how their bodies operate,” said Donato.

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• A patented gel composition that can prevent and treat Oral Mucositis. The gel contains a beneficial bacterium found in the oral cavity in early life. This treatment could help patients who receive radiation near the jaw and mouth from experiencing severe side effects to their teeth.

The bottom line MAGISNAT’s Dr. Pietro Chiurazzi, M.D., Ph.D., says the company’s philosophy is to provide a way for individuals to get to know their unique genetic makeup.

“The knowledge you gain from the genetic and metabolic tests will direct what you can do to adapt your diet and lifestyle to improve your well-being,” said Chiurazzi. ##

What is OMICS Science?

In short, the MAGISNAT OMICS research model uses genomics, metabolomics, proteomics and other OMICS sciences to better understand how the body operates, especially how the body fights damage on a cellular level that may lead to non-communicable diseases like cancer, heart disease, eating disorders, and other diseases.

Southwest Gwinnett magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Behind the Scenes of Paul Duke STEM Students’ Award Winning Documentary Words by Anna Del Villar Photos Courtesy of Brooke Skelton

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hen Brooke Skelton, film teacher at Paul Duke STEM High School, first read the script for the play “She Kills Monsters,” he knew he had something special on his hands.

“It’s not your normal high school play,” he said. “It’s an emotionally rich, action-packed story that deals with serious topics such as homophobia, bullying, death, mourning and acceptance. Many of these themes are relevant in our students’ lives and they were very passionate about it.”

Thus, Paul Duke STEM film students set out to capture a behind-the-scenes look at the play and document the process on film.

Students shot over 30 hours of footage and edited it down to a 25-minute documentary, showcasing set construction, costume design and sound design, as well as how the cast and crew interpreted some of the play’s challenging themes.

The film took over a year and a half to produce.

Real-world filmmaking The making of this documentary offered students a taste of the challenges and demands they might face in their future film careers.

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“Co-curricular project-based learning is an important part of our curriculum at Paul Duke STEM. Every semester, my film students collaborate with other classes on a variety of projects. … This was an authentic project, very much like what they’ll encounter in the real world,” Skelton explained.

Students honed their skills in problem-solving, effective communication, teamwork, compromise and meeting tight deadlines, which are crucial for success in the film industry.

A total of 12 students worked on the film, with two students doing most of the filming and four students doing all the editing. Skelton also brought in several 10th-grade students to participate in roles like camera assistants,

A triumph in their own backyard

Positive Change Award and Top Emerging Female Producer.

The documentary was complex to produce.

The students had to condense over 30 hours of footage into a 25-minute documentary to meet festival time limits.

Skelton and his students premiered the documentary at the Atlanta Sci-Fi Film Festival at Peachtree Corners Town Center this past October. It was a special moment for the cast and crew, who got to see their work on the big screen in a real movie theater for the very first time.

Congratulations to Brooke Skelton and his Paul Duke STEM film students on this remarkable accomplishment. ##

The process began with shooting behind-thescenes footage in March 2022 and culminated with cast and crew interviews in May 2022. After the initial filming phase, the students encountered technical issues, file management hurdles and even lost project files due to external hard drive failures.

“Being an official selection in several different film festivals is a great accomplishment. [Students] will be able to put it on their resumes and in their digital portfolios. It also inspired my lower-level students. They are excited to create something great of their own in the future,” said Skelton.

“[The seniors] were unable to edit the footage because they graduated, so I ended up giving the footage to four of my upcoming seniors.

They had never seen the footage, so they spent four months in the fall of 2022 going through

“We didn’t expect to win [best documentary] due to the fact that we were competing against adults, so that was a nice surprise!” he beamed.

“Abigail Donkor, one of the film’s producers, was in town from New York University, and

it, sorting it, transcribing it and creating an outline of the story that they wanted to tell,” Skelton recounted.

she did a question-and-answer session after the screening, which was really cool.”

sound design, creating titles and crafting the film’s introduction.

A year and a half in the making

“They also spent a lot of time learning how to edit a documentary. I was constantly showing them YouTube tutorials and clips from award-winning documentaries,” he added.

One of Skelton’s students did most of her editing at home, as none of the school laptops could handle 4K files. So, Skelton let the student use his MacBook Pro for two months.

The labor-intensive project wasn’t completed until after graduation in June 2023, but it was well worth the wait.

But the accolades don’t stop there.

You can watch the entire film on the official Paul Duke Stem Video and Film YouTube channel here.

Opposite page from left: Paul Duke STEM High School students pose on the red carpet at the Atlanta Sci-Fi Film Festival From left, Producer Landon Shell, Producer Abigail Donkor and film teacher Brooke Skelton at AMC 25 in Times Square Abigail Donkor, left, and Landon Shell attend an awards ceremony Official film poster for Making She Kills Monsters

View the documentary “She Kills Monsters”

Paul Duke STEM was an official selection at the All-American High School Film Festival in New York City, the most competitive high school film festival in the world.

The film was in the top 2%, as AAHSFF accepts over 2,500 films from all over the globe.

The film was screened to a packed house at AMC 25 in Times Square and recognized at the Teen Indie Awards in Brooklyn at The Kings Theatre.

The documentary was also selected as a top 10 finalist for two award categories, the Spark

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Southwest Gwinnett magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com

Capital Tacos Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Peachtree Corners and the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber welcomed its newest, fast casual Tex-Mex restaurant Capital Tacos, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 5270 Peachtree Pkwy Unit 117A. The corner taco shop turned nationally awarded Tex-Mex restaurant franchise, got its start in 2013 in Tampa, FL. The owners brought their scratch-made, innovative flavors to the Peach State with a Johns Creek restaurant that opened in the spring. Its newest eatery here in Peachtree Corners opened this fall.

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