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Peachtree Corners Festival | Atlanta Tech Week | Brooks Law

OFFICIAL CITY NEWS P49 ►

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ LIVINGINPEACHTREECORNERS.COM

PETS & THEIR PEOPLE THIS ISSUE

Why America Needs to Rebuild Its Skilled Trades Workforce What Makes PTC Great, What Could Make it Better

POSTAL CUSTOMER

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

Your Next Career Move

STARTS HERE Put Your Library Card to Work

From polishing your resume to searching for your next job or building new skills, Gwinnett County Public Library

SCAN HERE TO GET STARTED

has resources to help you reach your career goals. Get access to job search tools, career resources, upskilling opportunities and more, all with your library card.

gwinnettlibrary.com

Your Amazing Dental Experience Awaits You 199

New Patient Special Exam • Radiographs • Cleaning $496 Value

Emergency Visit Exam • Radiographs $264 Value

Link Dental Care 214 Years Combined Experience!

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED “WE ALSO OFFER IN-OFFICE DENTAL PLANS & CARE CREDIT”

Schedule Your Appointment Online or Call Today!

www.LinkDentalCare.com | 770.796.5640 6270 Smithpointe Drive, Peachtree Corners/Norcross

A GAC education is closer than you think.

NEW Express Shuttle Stops in Peachtree Corners: • Ingles (5075 Medlock Bridge Rd.) • Chick-fil-A/Aldi (6135 Peachtree Pkwy) Plus, 17 other routes connecting moreAtlanta-area neighborhoods directly toGAC, reducing travel time for families.

IN THIS ISSUE 24

COVER

Pets and Their People

Events Calendar

COMMUNITY 18

What Makes Peachtree Corners Great, What Could Make it Better?

COVER STORY 24

Pets & Their People 2026

A Mix of Old and New for the 2026 Peachtree Corners Festival

Winging Their Way Into Your Heart

BUSINESS 38

Blue Collar, Better Future: Why America Needs to Rebuild Its Skilled Trades Workforce

Connecting Southwest Gwinnett

Atlanta Tech Week Kicks Off with Record Crowd in Peachtree Corners

COMMUNITY

What Makes PTC Great, What Could Make it Better

BUSINESS

Brooks Law Partners Builds Its Practice Around People

In Photos: Happenings around Peachtree Corners

Peachtree Corners The official city news and updates

Why America Needs to Rebuild Its Skilled Trades Workforce

PEACHTREE CORNERS The official city news and updates

About the cover Harper, Kristen and Caroline with their favorite pups, Winnie and Willow — the Grand Prize winners of our Pets & Their People 2026 giveaway.

Supported by Support from community-minded companies and organizations helps us produce editorially independent content. They are companies that underwrite us in additional ways beyond print advertising. We thank them for their support.

Scan the QR code to find out more about EV Remodeling

Scan the QR code to find out more about vox-pop-uli

FALL CLINICS FLAG FOOTBALL for boys and girls kindergarten – 6th grade.

CHEER for girls kindergarten – 5th grade.

S I G N U P T O D AY ! W W W. W E S L E YA N S C H O O L . O R G / C L I N I C S

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecrnrs

PEACHTREE CORNERS MAGAZINE EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI MANAGING EDITOR

SHAWNE TAYLOR SENIOR WRITER

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

ALEX CHAPMAN EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING

THE TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS RICO FIGLIOLINI

SHAWNE TAYLOR

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

Shawne Taylor is an experienced writer/editor specializing in travel, lifestyle and arts & entertainment. In her spare time, she’s learning Japanese and enjoys reading, anime, music, gaming and K-dramas. She’s lived in PTC with her family since 2014.

Publisher & Executive Editor

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

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

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

Editorial Consultant

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS julie@mightyrockets.com

BROOKLYN UZOIJE brooklyn@mightyrockets.com

Connect with Peachtree Corners Magazine @peachtreecornerslife @PeachtreeCornersLife @PeachtreeCornersMagazine

@peachtreecrnrs @peachtreecornersmagazine @peachtreecornersmagazine

PEACHTREECORNERS PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC. P. O. BOX 921068 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com Peachtree Corners Magazine is published six times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 issue Volume 8 Number 46 ©2026 Peachtree Corners Magazine The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com. This publication is independently and privately owned, and managedby Mighty Rockets LLC

Managing Editor / Newsletter Editor

Senior Writer

JULIE DAVIS

AALIYAH MAN

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

Born and raised in Atlanta, Aaliyah Man is a photographer and social media manager with a passion for bringing food and culture to life through visual storytelling. Outside of work, she enjoys taking her dogs out in nature, baking desserts, and throwing pottery on the wheel.

Account Executive

Social Media Manager

HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR

PATRIZIA WINSPER

Harry J. Pinkney, Jr is an accomplished Graphic Designer with over 25 years of experience. A Philadelphia native who now calls Atlanta his home. He enjoys his dog, Chloeé, working out, movies, and running his own freelance graphic/ web design business.

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

Graphic Designer

Writer

GEORGE HUNTER

BROOKLYN UZOIJE

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

Brooklyn Uzoije is a sharp content strategist and media host with a strong background in client relations. Blending visual storytelling with real market insight, she creates compelling brand partnerships and high-impact campaigns that connect advertisers with engaged magazine audiences.

Photographer

Print & Digital Sales Specialist

KRISTEN CORLEY

TRACEY RICE

Kristen Corley is an Atlanta native with over a decade of experience in content creation. She lives in Historic Norcross with her family and writes “Young Norcross,” a weekly newsletter that focuses on building community and local engagement.

After a long career in global marketing for Fortune 500 companies like The Coca-Cola Company and Texas Instruments, Tracey earned a degree in Commercial Photography and now owns her own photography business. She specializes in portraits, events and real estate photography. She is the President of the Peachtree Corners Photography Club.

Writer

Photographer

UPCOMING ISSUES OF:

PEACHTREE CORNERS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 | Advertising Deadline October 15 • BEST OF PEACHTREE CORNERS

THE CREEK

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026 | Advertising Deadline September 17 • MEET ME AT MEDLEY

NORCROSS/NOW

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026 | Advertising Deadline September 17 • Witches Night Out

To ask us about advertising or marketing in these issues, please email rico@mightyrockets.com.

FIRST UP - EVENTS

ONGOING Politan Row at The Forum Weekly events 5155 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com/events/ politan-row-weekly-events Admission: free •

Monday Mahjong – Mondays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

•

Trivia Night – Thursdays, 7 p.m.

•

Silent Book Club – Saturdays, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

•

Night Shift (karaoke, trivia, cocktails) – Saturdays, 7 p.m.–11 p.m.

•

Music Bingo – Sundays, 5 p.m.

Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do

Join Corina Genson for a gentle yoga class, focusing on basic yoga poses, stretching and breathing exercises. Designed for all fitness levels, including beginners and those with physical limitations or injuries.

Through September 29

Mt. Carmel UMC Friday Morning Men’s Coffee Hour

Tuesdays, 8 a.m.-9 a.m.

Weekly, 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m.

Yoga on the Green

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov Admission: free Weekly yoga class on the green. Open to all ages and fitness levels. Students should wear comfortable attire and bring water (no glass containers), a small towel or two and a mat, if possible.

September 10 & October 8

Weekly Spanish Language Zoom Gathering “Divine Connection” (Conexión Divina)

6:45-8:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, 8 p.m.-9 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Photography Club Meet Up

Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org Admission: free Photographers of all skill levels are welcome to attend these monthly Thursday night meetups; come early at 6:15 p.m. for social time.

Weekly Chair Yoga Class Mondays, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585 Admission: free; donation appreciated. The Spanish-speaking community is invited to this Zoom prayer and study group, led by Rev. Xiomara Malagon. For more info and to receive the Zoom link, email: xioma735@gmail.com.

Forum Fit

Admission: Drop in for $20 or 5 classes for $75

The Forum, Peachtree Corners 5185 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com

SEPTEMBER 7

Labor Day

Patriot Day (Anniversary of 9/11)

Rosh Hashana

National Grandparents Day

Ganesh Chaturthi

First day of National Hispanic Heritage Month

Yom Kippur

September Equinox

OCTOBER

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

Leif Erikson Day

Columbus Day/Indigenous People’s Day

Halloween

April–October Wednesdays, 6 p.m.-7 p.m.

Admission: free Exercise your mind and body at these free weekly fitness classes on The Plaza. Each class features strength conditioning, cardio and mindfulness. Open to all fitness levels. Bring your own mat for the classes.

CrossFit on the Green Thursdays, March–November 8 a.m.-9 a.m. Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov Admission: free Weekly strength and conditioning class that relies on constantly varied, functional movements performed at high intensity, to achieve a health and fitness level that will

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

U&Me Coffee Shop 3425 Medlock Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org

September 5

Flicks on the Green – The Mighty Ducks 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov Admission: free Enjoy a family-friendly movie outdoors on The Green. This month’s film is The Mighty Ducks. Rated PG. Running time 1h 43m.

Admission: free

September 8

Casual, faith-based morning meetup for men, organized by Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church.

Forum Flicks

F3 Men’s Workouts Tuesdays & Fridays, 5:30 a.m.-6:15 a.m.

Starting at 6 p.m. The Plaza at The Forum theforumonpeachtree.com Admission: free

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners f3alpha.com/johns-creek

Gather on The Plaza to enjoy favorite family-friendly movies on the big screen. This month’s movie is Toy Story 3. Rated G. Running time 1hr 43m.

Admission: free

September 11

Peer-led, outdoor workout group that meets weekly (rain or shine) for fitness, fellowship and faith with the mission of invigorating male community leadership.

SEPTEMBER September 4, 11, 18 & 25

Friday Night Live Fridays, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. The Forum at Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com

Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585

Important Dates

sustain ANY lifestyle. Open to all ages and fitness levels. Students should wear comfortable workout attire and bring water (no glass containers), a small towel or two and a mat, if possible.

Admission: free Kick back and groove to the smooth sounds of live music from favorite local artists every Friday night on The Plaza, through the end of October. Check the website for weekly lineup.

September 5

Saturday Healing Sound Bath 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585 Admission: free; donation appreciated Join Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist, Raye Andrews, for a beautiful symphony of sound. This immersive, full-body listening experience can bring relaxation and a sense of calm to your mind, body and spirit. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow for comfort. No registration required.

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony Starts at 8:15 a.m. Betty Mauldin Park 1-63 Lawrenceville St. NW, Norcross norcrossga.net/2081/911-Remembrance-Ceremony Come out for a heartwarming and meaningful ceremony to remember the lives lost and heroes who bravely responded on 9/11. The ceremony will include a message of tribute, soulful sounds of bagpipes and a solemn ringing of the bell to mark the moment the first tower was hit.

September 11

Sissy Goff & David Thomas: Capable 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Greater Atlanta Christian School 1575 Indian Trail Road, Norcross qrco.de/worryfreekids Admission: free Join Sissy Goff and David Thomas as they share practical encouragement and insights from their new book, “Capable.” They’ll explain how to help children build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, persevere through challenges and grow into capable, emotionally healthy young people. Register online to attend.

September 11–27

“The Philadelphia Story” Multiple showtimes Lionheart Theatre Company 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org; 404-919-4022 Admission: $18/$20 (includes dessert)

peachtreecornerslife

peachtreecrnrs

Get ready to brush up on culture and creativity!

Norcross and Explore Gwinnett bring you Artober—a monthlong canvas of vibrant festivities. From the creative energy of Norcross Art Splash Festival to the lively hues of Dia De Los Muertos, we’re painting the town with artistic flair! SCAN HERE FOR THE FULL EVENT LINEUP

GET TO KNOW

TUCKERGA.GOV 10

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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peachtreecrnrs

This Broadway hit (which was adapted into a classic film starring Katherine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart in 1940) is a lively comedy that takes place during an eventful wedding weekend at a privileged family’s estate.

September 16

September 12

Admission: free

Atlanta British Car Fayre

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning how to make the traditional drink, Agua de Horchata. Ages 19+.

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Downtown Norcross atlantabritishcarfayre.com Admission: free to attend Over 400 cars and motorcycles will be on display, British-themed food and drinks will be available for purchase from local businesses, and Beatles tribute band “The Return” and “Whoz Rollin” (a local band covering The Who and The Rolling Stones) will perform onstage at this annual celebration of all things British.

September 12

Wellness Way Market 10 a.m.-12 p.m. The Plaza at The Forum theforumonpeachtree.com Admission: free

Agua de Horchata 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Peachtree Corners Library 5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners gwinnettpl.org

September 17

Healing Sound Bath 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585 Admission: free; donation appreciated Join Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist, Raye Andrews, for a beautiful symphony of sound. This immersive, full-body listening experience can bring relaxation and a sense of calm to your mind, body and spirit. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow for comfort. No registration required.

Enjoy a morning of health and wellness activities presented by the wellness businesses at The Forum. There will be mini fitness sessions, pop-up activations, post-workout photo opportunities and special offers from participating tenants.

September 22

September 12

Admission: free

Peachtree Corners Concert Series Guardians of the Jukebox

Kids ages 6-11 and their family members are invited to come out to celebrate and learn more about the Asian cultural Mid-Autumn Festival. Registration is not required.

7 p.m.-10 p.m.

Mid-Autumn Festival 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Norcross Library 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org; 770-978-5154

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov

September 22

Admission: free

6 p.m.-7 p.m.

One of Peachtree Corners’ favorite bands returns, as Guardians of the Jukebox bring their signature high-energy ‘80s show back to the VoxStage.

Norcross Library 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross gwinnettpl.org; 770-978-5154

September 14

Norcross Movie Mondays 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Dive into the magic of cinema on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Light refreshments are included. This week’s film is Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. Rated PG; Running time is 2h 3m.

Autumnal Equinox Celebration

Admission: free Learn the science and cultural significance behind the equinox and how it is celebrated around the world. For ages 19+. Register online to attend.

September 25–26

Harvest Moon Camp Out Friday, 5:30 p.m. to Saturday, 9 a.m. Jones Bridge Park 4901 E Jones Bridge Road, Peachtree Corners gwinnettcounty.com/departments/ parksandrecreation Admission: $15 residents; $22 non-residents Enjoy a unique overnight camp

out with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation. Have fun making s’mores, telling stories and learning about Georgia wildlife under the harvest moon. Register online to attend.

September 26

Peachtree Corners Concert Series The Bourbon Brothers 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov Admission: free Step back into the golden age of American music as The Bourbon Brothers bring timeless style, smooth sounds and classic charm to the VoxStage. Channeling Sinatra, the band performs beloved standards with effortless cool and impeccable musicianship.

September 27

Spiritual Keys to Aging Well 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners unityatl.org; 770-441-0585 Admission: free; donation appreciated.

OCTOBER October 1–3

BLC Legacy Scholarship Gala

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

Bites Over PTC

Starts at 5 p.m.

Admission: free

7 p.m-8:30 p.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5593 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners blclegacyfoundation.org

Dive into the magic of cinema on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Light refreshments are included. This week’s film is Wicked for Good. Rated PG; Running time is 2h 17m.

Peachtree Corners bridge upper landing theforumpeachtree.com Admission: $70 for two guests

This second annual gala from the BLC Legacy Foundation will include an evening reception, dinner and live entertainment to raise funds for the foundation’s mission. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

October 2

Flicks on the Green – E.T.

Mt. Carmel Fall BBQ & Sweet Shop

7 p.m.-10 p.m.

Opens at 11 a.m.; Drive thru begins at 3:30 p.m. Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church 5100 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org; 770-449-4498 Stop by for pork BBQ (plates or sandwiches), Brunswick stew, coleslaw and lots of goodies baked by the Mt. Carmel women. Stay and enjoy lunch under the trees to get your order to go. All proceeds support local and international ministries.

October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

September 28

The Forum at Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free

Friday Night Live Fridays, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Admission: free Kick back and groove to the smooth sounds of live music from favorite local artists every Friday night on The Plaza, through the end of October. Check the website for weekly lineup.

Dive into the magic of cinema on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Light refreshments are included. This week’s film is Selena. Rated PG; Running time is 2h 7m.

October 3

September 29

Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585

Little Peaches Playdate 4 p.m.-6 p.m. The Forum at Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com Admission: free Enjoy kid-friendly crafts, games and entertainment at this ultimate playdate for little ones held the last Tuesday of each month, April–October. This month’s theme is “Celebrating First Responders” featuring first responders from Gwinnett County.

Tickets: $150 per person

The Forum and the City of Peachtree Corners have partnered to celebrate some of downtown PTC’s top restaurants. This exclusive evening event will feature lite bites, complimentary beverages, live music, sunset views and more.

This monthly discussion group meets the last Sunday of the month to focus on topics of interest to aging adults. No registration required.

Norcross Movie Mondays

October 3

Saturday Healing Sound Bath 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Admission: free; donation appreciated Join Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist, Raye Andrews, for a beautiful symphony of sound. This immersive, full-body listening experience can bring relaxation and a sense of calm to your mind, body and spirit. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow for comfort. No registration required.

October 3

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

peachtreecornerslife

Forum Flicks Starting at 6 p.m. The Plaza at The Forum theforumonpeachtree.com Admission: free

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov

Gather on The Plaza to enjoy favorite family-friendly movies on the big screen. The October movie is Hocus Pocus. Rated PG. Running time 1hr 36m. It’s the last movie of the season, so come out and have fun!

Admission: free

October 15

Enjoy a family-friendly movie outdoors on The Green. This month’s film is E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Rated PG. Running time 2h.

October 4–31

Mt. Carmel Pumpkin Patch 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church 5100 South Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org Admission: free This annual community pumpkin patch is back for another year. Come pick out the perfect carving pumpkin and pose for photos. Guests can also enjoy Saturday story times on October 10 and 17 at 10 a.m.

October 4

Eddie Watkins Jr – Service Guest & Live Concert 11 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners UnityAtl.org; 770-441-0585 Concert admission: $20 This special Sunday Service celebration features an afternoon concert with Eddie Watkins Jr., the “Man from Motown with a Message.” A former Motown bassist who performed with legendary artists, Eddie now shares spiritually uplifting music that inspires healing, connection and personal transformation.

October 12

Norcross Movie Mondays

peachtreecornerslife

October 17

Pedal Norcross 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Downtown Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Pedal your way to fun on this 2.8-mile bike ride through Historic Norcross. There will also be a kids’ practice area, vendor and non-profit booths, an E-bike giveaway and a pre-ride stretch with Rosemary from Aum Sweet Home at 2:30 p.m.

October 18

Mt. Carmel Cemetery Tour 1 p.m. Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church 5100 South Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org Admission: free

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

October 13

peachtreecrnrs

Come take a guided tour of the Mount Carmel United Methodist Church cemetery. In case of rain,

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS

a presentation will be given in the sanctuary instead.

Emotion in Motion

October 22

KIDS COPING SKILLS GROUP

Witches Night Out

Ages 6–9

5:30 p.m.

Six-Week Gro u p

Downtown Norcross norcrossga.net

Helping kids understand b ig feelings & bu ild healthy coping skills

Admission: free

Struggling with b ig emotions like anger, worry, frustration, or shutting dow n?

TUESDAYS Starting October 6, 2026 5:00 pm–6:30 pm $45 per session

Kids will learn to:

Name and understand feelings Calm their bodies during big feelings Use simple coping tools for anger, worry, and frustration

Limited Spots! Scan To Register

Talk about feelings in healthy ways Build confidence through creative activities Based on the Emotion in Motion workbook

A PLACE TO GROW COUNSELING & CONSULTING SERVICES 3867 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite: 700 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

404.775.3050 www.aptgc.com

Enjoy pre-Halloween festivities at this annual event organized by The Heart of Norcross. There will be live music, tarot readings, fun seasonal activities and in-store specials at the local shops and restaurants. Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked will also be on-hand, singing and strolling through downtown.

Spiritual Keys to Aging Well

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

Downtown Norcross deutsche-klassic.com Admission: free Come out to view over 250 classic German automobiles on display, indulge in traditional German cuisine and beer and tap your feet to the lively music from a polka band. Fun for the whole family.

SOLD 6477 ROSECOMMON DRIVE

SOLD 3807 AVERA LANE

SOLD 4168 ALLENHURST DRIVE

BUYER REPRESENTED

SOLD 3659 ALLENHURST DRIVE

SOLD 5727 SHAWN TERRACE BUYER REPRESENTED

SOLD 5305 LINNADINE WAY

SOLD 4373 FIELDING LANE BUYER REPRESENTED

SOLD 4295 SHAWN COURT

BUYER REPRESENTED

SOLD 5565 SAPELO TRAIL

WE’VE SOLD 14 HOMES IN PEACHTREE CORNERS IN 2026 We know what it takes to make a move in this market! From preparing and marketing a home for sale to finding the right opportunity for buyers, our local knowledge and handson approach help our clients move forward with confidence. Thinking about buying or selling? Let us put our experience to work for you!

Leslie Tomasini

LESLIE TOMASINI, REALTOR® Peachtree Corners resident since 2010 NORTH ATLANTA COLLECTIVE REMAX AROUND ATLANTA

12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners unityatl.org; 770-441-0585 Admission: free; donation appreciated. This monthly discussion group meets the last Sunday of the month to focus on topics of interest to aging adults. No registration required.

October 25

Mt. Carmel Fall Festival & Trunk a Treating 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church 5100 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org; 770-449-4498 Admission: free Join in the fun with bounce houses, games, prizes and trunk a treating. Children and adults are welcome to wear Halloween costumes.

BUYER REPRESENTED

SOLD 3999 THE DALES LANE NW

Admission: free

Multiple showtimes

10 a.m.-3 p.m.

SOLD 5653 CREEKSIDE DRIVE

Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov

October 25

Deutsche Klassic German Car Show

BUYER REPRESENTED

7 p.m.-10 p.m.

“Lawless Spirits 2026”

October 24

SOLD 3879 RAINFOREST CIRCLE

The Little Mermen – Disney Rock Night

October 22–25

Lionheart Theatre Company’s signature walking tour of Historic Downtown Norcross, featuring restless spirits in haunting vignettes inspired by local Georgia history.

SOLD 5736 FAIRLEY HALL CT

Peachtree Corners Concert Series

Wrap up the Summer Concert Series with a magical, high-energy show on the VoxStage. Joined by the powerhouse Princess Pals, The Little Mermen will deliver an unforgettable evening of beloved Disney songs with a fun, rockin’ twist.

Admission: $18/$20

SOLD 6076 TENNYSON PARK WAY

October 24

CELL: 770-744-4155 LESLIE@NORTHATLANTACOLLECTIVE.COM WWW.NORTHATLANTACOLLECTIVE.COM

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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4036 Wetherburn Way Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

October 26

October 30

Norcross Movie Mondays

Dia De Los Muertos Festival

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross norcrossga.net Admission: free Dive into the magic of cinema on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Light refreshments are included. This week’s film is Casper. Rated PG; Running time is 1h 40m.

October 27

Little Peaches Playdate 4 p.m.-6 p.m. The Forum at Peachtree Corners theforumonpeachtree.com Admission: free Enjoy kid-friendly crafts, games and entertainment at this ultimate playdate for little ones held the last Tuesday of each month, April–October. This month’s theme is “Halloween Bash.” Kids will have a blast with a costume contest, spooky activities and photo opportunities.

local shelters and rescues, a kids play area and fun giveaways.

peachtreecornersfestival.com

October 31

This annual community festival features two days of live music, 50+ arts & crafts vendors, festival food, fun & games in the Kids Korner, Intuitive’s demo truck and the crowd-favorite Car & Bike show.

5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Harvestfest

Thrasher Park, Norcross norcrossga.net

7 p.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: free Immerse yourself in the rich cultural experience of this traditional Mexican holiday celebrating life, death and remembrance of those who have passed. There will be delicious, authentic Mexican food, live entertainment and dance.

October 31

Rescue Dog Games and Festival

The Father’s House Church 6060 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners thefathershouseatl.org Admission: free The community is invited to come out for this family-friendly fall event on the church lawn. There will be vendors, food, fun and games for all ages.

Early November events November 7 & 8

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Christ the King Craft Fair

Peachtree Corners Town Green rescuedoggames.com

Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-1p.m.

Admission: free

Christ the King Lutheran Church 5575 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners ctklutheran.org

Come out and celebrate the joy of pet adoption and getting outside to play with your four-legged friends! The festival will feature a Halloween dog costume contest, a dog-lure chase, dog game stations, refreshments from the Bone Bar, live demos, vendor booths and more. There will also be adoptable dogs from

Admission: free Shop handcrafted items and homemade baked goods while supporting local charitable causes at this 40th annual event. Everyone is welcome and guests can enjoy refreshments and lunch in the church’s café.

November 7

116 Carlyle St., Norcross | norcrossgalleryandstudios.org, 770-840-9844 Check their website for costs and up-to-date information.

Exhibits Ongoing and Events Sessions Through September 30

4th Annual Photo Contest: Celebration This photography competition celebrates the City of Norcross and is open to both professional and amateur photographers. All submitted photos must be original work created by the entrant. No AI images will be accepted. Submissions are open through September 30. Photographers of accepted photos will be notified on or around October 7. Learn more and submit photos online.

Scan the QR code to find out more about Norcross Gallery & Studios

Figure and Portrait Study Sessions Tuesdays, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: $16 for members; $22 for non-members; package pricing available

Admission: $20.78–$38.13 (includes service fees) Parking: $5 advance online. $10 day-of. Now in its 39th year, JapanFest Atlanta celebrates Japanese culture, food and community. The weekend event features live performances, a product showcase, workshops and hands-on activities, vendors, fun and games for all ages, cos-play and more.

September 26 & 27

Duluth Fall Festival Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Town Green community.peachtreecornersga.gov Enjoy an afternoon of football and fun with a curated artist market filled with handcrafted goods, unique gifts and seasonal finds, along with the popular Kids Market and interactive activities — all while catching college football action on the big screen.

Held the last weekend in September, the Duluth Fall Festival features fun for all ages. A Saturday morning parade through Duluth’s downtown streets kicks off the festivities. An opening ceremony, two days of live music and entertainment, over 180 arts & crafts vendors, a Kids Korner (with inflatables and games), 40 food booths and the famous Duluth Donut Dash 5k are highlights of this community-favorite annual event.

November 11

October 3 & 4

Veterans Day Ceremony

Norcross Art Splash

11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: free

Peachtree Corners Town Green community.peachtreecornersga.gov

September 19 & 20

Peachtree Corners Festival Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Peachtree Corners Town Green

peachtreecornerslife

Gas South Convention Center 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth japanfest.org

Admission: free

Fall Festivals

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

12 p.m.-4 p.m.

Thursdays–Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Organizer: Kathy Collins

JapanFest Atlanta: Timeless Japan

Downtown Duluth duluthfallfestival.org

Daytime Open Studio

Cost: free for members, $5 for non-members

September 19 & 20

Game Day & Market

Join city leaders and fellow residents in a meaningful celebration, as we come together to recognize the sacrifices and dedication of the military veterans who have helped safeguard our freedoms.

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

Admission: free

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Thrasher Park, Norcross splashfestivals.com Admission: free Make a splash at this annual arts festival in the park. Talented artists from near and far will showcase their best work. And vendors, culinary treats and drinks, live music and fun will be part of the festivities.

Business Organizations and Events Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners 30092 atlantatechpark.com; 404-797-1221

attend and enjoy an exclusive tour of the space.

September 10

Marlow’s Tavern at Town Center 5210 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Members and their guests are invited to attend monthly lunches at Marlow’s Tavern to meet and network with other PCBA members. Lunch is not provided, but participants receive 15% off of their bill. Free for members; $10 for non-members. Advance registration is appreciated.

Norcross PDC

instagram.com/norcrosspdc

September 1 & October 6

Thursday Thought Leaders Luncheon

Atlanta Tech Meetup

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

September 24

6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Business After Hours

Network with like-minded entrepreneurs and tech professionals at this casual, monthly gathering. Enjoy pizza and beer and talk about the latest in technology. First Tuesday of each month. Free to attend.

September 17

5 Threats to Your Family’s Financial Future 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Learn the five surprising factors that put your family’s financial security at risk. Attorney James M. Miskell will review everything you need to know to protect your loved ones and assets at this free workshop. Register online to attend.

September 18

NARI Atlanta Craft Your Career Expo 9 a.m.-1 p.m. nariatlanta.org/events/craft-your-career-expo-2026 NARI Atlanta members and non-members are invited to attend this event and explore careers in remodeling, design, construction and skilled trades. Register online at the NARI Atlanta site if you plan to attend.

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

September 3

Admission: $34 members; $40 nonmembers Guest speakers will be former U.S. Congressmember Dr. Carolyn Bourdeaux and former director of the U.S. Government Accountability Office, John Pendleton. The topic is “Federal Debt, Local Impact: What’s at Stake for Our Economy.” Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the federal budget and a sense of urgency about our nation’s debt crisis. Register by 12 p.m. on September 8 to reserve your seat.

September 17 & October 15

Coffee Connections 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.

Enjoy an evening of networking, great conversations and the opportunity to hear from local business leaders. PCBA will also be awarding a check to Paint Gwinnett Pink. $48 (includes appetizers and drinks). Early bird discounts are available through September 17.

October 22

Business After Hours 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Atlanta Marriott Peachtree Corners 475 Technology Parkway Enjoy an evening of networking, great conversations and the oppor-

Norcross PDC (People Drinking Coffee/People Doing Community) meets weekly to discuss current events that are political, educational and community-focused. Open to the public. No dues or membership fees; anyone can attend. • Sept. 2 – Tour of the Norcross Police building (attendees are required to have already signed up for this event) • Sept. 9 – Shawn Hoder, VP news director at CBS Atlanta • Sept. 16 – Jenny Allen, executive director of Meals on Wheels • Sept. 23 – Michael Coker, mayor of Mulberry, Georgia • Sept. 30 – Jay Dennard, Northside Hospital VP of govt. & community affairs October speakers will be announced soon.

Peachtree Corners Business Association 4989 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 215, Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersba.com; 678-969-3385

September 8 & October 13

PCBA Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup

8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Admission: free for PCBA members and their guests.

Join the SWGC and the Norcross Police Department for a special Coffee Connections Spotlight. Hosted by Police Chief Bill Grogan, the morning meetup will be held at the new Norcross Public Safety Building. Members and non-members may

‘Cue Barbecue 5260 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

45 South Café 45 S. Peachtree Street, Norcross

Start your day with coffee and conversation in the company of local professionals. Join this casual networking event to expand your professional relationships. Open to members and non-members. Coffee and tea provided. No registration required.

8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.

Admission: free

5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, 8:15 a.m.-9 a.m.

Admission: free

Coffee Connections Spotlight: Norcross Police Department Norcross Public Safety Building Buford Hwy. at Stevens Rd., Norcross

tunity to hear from local business leaders. PCBA will also be awarding a check to one of their charity spotlights. $48 (includes appetizers and drinks). Early bird discounts are available through September 17.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Meet with PCBA and business professionals over coffee in a positive atmosphere on the second Tuesday of each month. Register online as space is limited.

September 17 & October 29

PCBA Lunch Club 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

COMMUNITY

What’s Great About Peachtree Corners and What Can Make it Better?

hrough emails and social media, we asked residents to share their thoughts on what makes Peachtree Corners a great place to live and work and what could make it even better. There were similarities in many of the answers, but also unique points of view. We learned a lot about how our friends and neighbors view this city we call home. And we discovered that while we shared many of the same ideas for improvement, there were also a few new ideas we’d never thought of. Having this dialogue with residents and readers not only gave us a peek into new perspectives, it also made us feel even more connected — to the city and to the community. We appreciate everyone who took time to answer and share their thoughts!

Andrew Hajduk Vox-Pop-Uli

Peachtree Corners is a great place to live for several reasons. First, community. I have never lived anywhere that had such a strong, welcoming Andrew Hajduk with his wife Cindy. community. From the citizens to businesses to our local government, everyone is welcoming and engaging. Second, this is a great place to have a business. We have so many world-class companies right here that provide unbelievable opportunities for growth. Finally, we also have everything else we could need — great natural parks like Simpsonwood. Worldclass facilities at Town Green with the playground and Ft. Pain. And plenty of options for great dining.

Compiled and edited by Shawne Taylor

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

What could make it better? I would like to see more engagement from ALL residents. The complexion of the city has changed a lot over recent years, and it is important we hear from everyone. I would also like to see greater engagement from some of the larger companies in the city with local organizations. I believe we need good corporate citizens that are engaged in our Southwest Gwinnett Chamber. Businesses don’t vote, but the fees they pay have helped avoid a millage for 15 years, so their voices matter. I believe we also need to look at commercial corridors outside of Tech Park to insure they are keeping up. I think there are some areas of blight in places like Northwoods or on the southside. We need to get creative with re-purposing these spaces and hold landlords accountable. I love this city. I love the fact that I can be as engaged as I want to be, and we have city staff and elected officials that listen. We have so many incredible opportunities right here, we just need to be smart and intentional as the city continues to grow.

Jennifer Sanders Pinkneyville Middle School PTSA Co-President

For the past thirteen years, Peachtree Corners has been the place my family proudly calls home. I love living here because it continues to grow as a community centered around families, connection and shared experiences. Town Center and The Forum have become safe, welcoming hubs where my middle school boys and their friends can meet, explore and enjoy their independence. Whether they’re grabbing a snack, walking the green space or simply hanging out, I know they’re in a place designed with families in mind. Peachtree Corners also embraces an active lifestyle. From the Town Center walking path to the beautiful Simpsonwood and Jones Bridge parks, there are endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature together. These spaces have become part of our family rhythm — places to unwind, play and reconnect. We especially love the events at Town Center. Festivals, concerts and watch parties bring the whole community together, and we always find familiar faces. Those moments of gathering remind us why Peachtree Corners feels so special: it’s a place where friendships grow, families thrive and community truly matters.

Laura Pusateri

Pinckneyville Middle School

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(Left to right) Jennifer Sanders, Laura Pusateri, Kelly Belin

PTSA Co-President Peachtree Corners is a great place to live because we have such a tight-knit community. People truly care for one another and are invested in enriching each other’s lives and experiences. If I could change one thing about Peachtree Corners, it would be to add more unique businesses and restaurants to the area. While I do think there have been improvements in the last few years, I’d love a few more boutique retailers that are unique to just our area.

Kelly Belin

Pinckneyville Middle School Board Member 30092 is a great place to live because of our schools — both public and private! There are multiple educational institutions PreK through 12 to fit the individual needs of families and students. During the school year, thousands of students learn and grow right here in our community. Our schools also provide a significant opportunity for employment, strengthening our local workforce and economy. What could make Peachtree Corners even better is to encourage greater community involvement and volunteering at our schools. Our area is home to a wide range of businesses, talented professionals and experienced community members who have valuable skills and knowledge to share. Offering multi-generational volunteering opportunities can open new perspectives, ideas and even solutions. By nurturing the relationship between our community members and schools, we can build strong local connections to create meaningful opportunities. This can enrich the educational experience for our students while supporting our teachers and staff.

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Rev. Dr. Ben Gosden

Simpsonwood United Methodist Church I have lived in Peachtree Corners for all of five weeks now. I moved here from downtown Savannah to be appointed as the brand new senior pastor at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church. In the short time I’ve been here, I can truly say that what makes Peachtree Corners great is the people — people who truly welcome others, care about what’s going on in their community and want to make room for all people to belong. Also, The Forum — my 14- and 9-year-old children absolutely love that place!

dogs or sitting outside just sharing stories about our families, our lives and why we love calling Peachtree Corners home. That’s the kind of warmth you don’t find everywhere. Over the past few years, it’s been exciting to watch the city grow while keeping families at the heart of that growth and creating places where people genuinely want to spend time together. Looking ahead, I’d love to see more connected bike trails and shaded outdoor spaces; something with the spirit of the Atlanta Beltline. I’d also love to see more community events to discover local artists, support small businesses and give our creative community another reason to come together.

Amy Massey Light Up the Corners

Peachtree Corners is appealing because you can get the comfort and space of an Atlanta suburb while living in a community that has a genuine town center, river and green space, diverse dining, strong family amenities, top-rated schools and an unusually ambitious technology and innovation

Colin Creel

Cornerstone Christian Academy Peachtree Corners is a special place to work and live because of the people. Our city is filled with interesting and dynamic individuals who care for each other and care for our community. Personally, I would love to see either a community theater or a professional theater company land in Peachtree Corners.

Analy Carpio Realtor and Children’s Book Author

One of my favorite things about living in Peachtree Corners is that so many of us don’t just live here — we’ve built our lives here. PTC is made up of business owners, attorneys, doctors and teachers who not only serve this community but are deeply rooted in it. We take our chilAnaly Carpio with dren to Barnes & her daughters. Noble at The Forum, grab açaí bowls at Town Center and cool off at the splash pad afterward. Our work, our families and our everyday lives are woven into this community. It’s common for me to walk into a local restaurant or spend an afternoon at The Forum and run into someone I know. I’ve also had wonderful conversations with complete strangers while walking our

ecosystem. The city has enough green space to make it feel suburban, while still providing the amenities often associated with urban living. Living here is definitely a best-of-both-worlds lifestyle. What could make it better? I’d love to see more indoor and outdoor live music and performing arts venues and other night life options. Also, more cultural programming and a community center that serves all of its citizens. Let’s think outside the box here, and not just build a theatre for plays. We need a multi-purpose, multi-functioning community center that provides diverse cultural programming and engagement Another idea: A Chattahoochee green corridor. The goal should be a connected system of protected forest, trails, parks, overlooks, art installations and river access running through the city. We have the longest stretch of river frontage of any Gwinnett city, so let’s capitalize on it and make it a defining public-space asset. The city doesn’t have to do everything. A nonprofit foundation could be initiated to raise private money for land acquisition, trail construction, benches, art installations, overlooks, etc. Businesses could also sponsor portions of the corridor with signage showing things like “This mile of trail or this overlook, sponsored or protected by…” with the company or organization’s name.

Phil Adra

Four Corners Capital Peachtree Corners has a small-town feel, yet offers so much in the way of fun community activities and events, a great selection of both public and private schools and a great natural habitat that supports a variety of parks, walking/biking trails and other outdoor activities along the Chattahoochee River. If you enjoy a combination of great social events, great food, great schools, great neighbors and access to the great outdoors, then Peachtree Corners is the perfect place to live and raise a family. I’m so excited my kids get to grow up here and call this amazing city home. The location is amazing, too.

I can get into the city and down to the airport easily with proximity to 285, and yet I’m also only an hour away from the North Georgia mountains and lakes. The fact that Peachtree Corners sits between the 400 corridor and I-85 makes it unique too…it gives it a slower, less frequently accessed and more rustic quality than most suburbs situated off the bigger interstates throughout the city. Truly big-city living with a small town feel! What could make it better would be more walkability, more roundabouts for traffic, better parking at The Forum and Town Green and finding permanent restaurants and hangouts where Lazy Dog and CinéBistro used to be.

Dave Huffman

Peachtree Corners Festival My wife and I have lived in Peachtree Corners for 45 years, so obviously there must be something about this place that makes it special in our eyes! We were both engineers in our primary careers, so this area’s connection with technology was important. That connection to technology and innovation has only increased in the years since we incorporated as a city, and the numerous awards that the city has received for technology show that Peachtree Corners is doing great things for people well beyond our city limits. We thank the city’s forward-looking leadership for that. We love to take advantage of the arts and events that our region offers, so the proximity to the rest of metro Atlanta is just right for us. We can get to the symphony, opera, museums, Braves and Georgia Tech sports events (Go Jackets!) with relative ease. And we love the parks here in the city and the abundance of trees. To make Peachtree Corners an even better place to live, I would like to see more cultural events take place here. Wouldn’t it be nice to go to the Town Green to hear a classical or jazz ensemble or a small theater company performing in an intimate space? I bet there are a good number of talented musicians and performers right here in the city who could put on quite a show if given the chance.

Lisa Proctor Peachtree Corners Business Association

What makes Peachtree Corners special is the people who call our city home — especially those who continue to invest their

time, talents and resources in building a strong, resilient community. As the city continues to grow and evolve, we have an opportunity to take a more strategic approach to ensuring that our infrastructure keeps pace with that growth. This means strengthening our power grid and developing more effective solutions to address traffic and mobility challenges before adding additional housing and increasing traffic demand. Leveraging our smart-city technology and innovation to help manage the increased energy demands associated with growth, while also improving traffic flow and mobility, presents a natural opportunity for Peachtree Corners. By proactively aligning infrastructure, technology and responsible growth, I think we can continue building a city that is resilient, sustainable and prepared for the future.

negatives. Despite all that change, some things remain true. Peachtree Corners still has parks and trails with easy access to the beautiful Chattahoochee River. The quality of our schools has always attracted young families who care about education and about their children, and now with choices of top-tier private schools like Wesleyan and [charter or theme schools like] Paul Duke STEM High School, it’s even more true. Being a technology hub, Peachtree Corners is teeming with smart people, and we are very demographically diverse. We have beautiful subdivisions with healthy and friendly communities of people who care for each other. I highly recommend Peachtree Corners to people looking for a wonderful place to live. ▪

Tracey Rice

Thoughts and ideas from social media

Peachtree Corners Photography Club

We moved to our home in Peachtree Corners exactly 30 years ago (when it was still considered Norcross) and have certainly seen a lot of changes over the years, especially with regards to development. When we moved here, the corner where The Forum is was a forest, as was the area across the street where Town Center is now. The new Norcross High School sprung up on Spalding when our son was a sophomore. Retail stores and restaurants opened and closed. We’ve lost tons of trees in PeachTREE Corners (and safe places for all the deer). Not to mention the increased traffic that’s almost become unbearable. I have to time my trips to the grocery store to avoid rush hour on Peachtree Parkway. Peachtree Corners was a small, quiet suburban town and now it is a city with all of its plusses (more closeby services and establishments are convenient) and minuses (noisier, more traffic, fewer wooded areas). In terms of what could make Peachtree Corners better, I would emphatically say to slow down on the development that is causing the

I’m a long time PTC resident and proud of it. I believe we need more recreational spaces — walking, biking/ mountain biking, skate/scooter parks, basketball/pickleball/badminton/volleyball courts. Places we can put down our phones and be a community. I would hope that our newly purchased old movie theater can be used as a community events center. Somewhere teens and adults can enjoy and collaborate with one another — game nights, book clubs and debates. PTC should invest in somewhere for 20-30year olds to hang out and meet/ date. I believe there is an untapped market of residents that want something to do on a Friday night. When I was young, that place was Buckhead. … I’m simply proposing an indoor arcade/mini-golf/piano/sports/open mic night bar/restaurant. — BJ Valentine

dery where Lazy Dog used to be. That’s an awesome idea! — Kristie Vo Le I love the diversity, nature and fun events! I’d like more attention given to developing south Peachtree Corners (like the shopping centers along 140) and selfishly, I wish we had a store for crafts and hobbies, like a Michael’s. — Sarah Ikegami Town Center improvements: Movie theater to an activity/community center for all ages; Lazy Dog >> sports bar; Jacks >> upscale Italian restaurant; and a classic bakery. — Rosa Tanner Brinkman I couldn’t love this city any more than I do. Amazing shopping and amenities within 1-2 miles of all homes! Amazing public parks and walking trails! Traffic isn’t bad when compared to other metro Atlanta cities. Great walkability with sidewalks everywhere. Centrally located and easy to get anywhere in Atlanta! Did I miss anything? — Matthew Meide I would love to see more walkability and maybe more coffee shops! Would like some dedicated indoor spaces open to the public where I can also get a nice drink. — Gabrielle Billings A BIKE TRAIL!!! (That’s an actual trail, not the road.) — Beau Johnson I love PTC! Great real estate market and close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment galore! Surrounded by the top growing cities in metro Atlanta (Johns Creek, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth and more), it’s the best kept secret in Gwinnett County! — Hattie Cooper Best-Realtor It feels mostly safe from crime, but the car dependency is really atrocious. People need more access to it using bikes and walking. If you wouldn’t let your kids walk to a place, it’s not safe. Even in The Forum (a supposedly pedestrianized zone), I’ve been nearly hit multiple times due to cars not stopping for pedestrians. Start catering to the

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I love the shopping/dining options such as The Forum and Town Center, but I would really like a safer pedestrian access to those locations. I like my kids to be able to ride their bikes and scooters or walk to The Forum or TC, but all the intersections leading to the spots are huge and unsafe. The bridge is great to get from one to the other, but actually getting there by walking, biking, etc. is not particularly safe. — Christie Hall You can get anywhere in Atlanta from here. It’s a friendly place. Not much traffic. — Susan Miller I wish the Town Center playground had more shade. It’s awful during the hot months. — Nisah Mohammed Dang Peachtree Corners is awesome, especially Town Center. The only thing missing is a senior center. — Steve Cloer An upgraded aquatic splash pad complete with water slides, free for the community play! I was just at one in Melissa Park, TX and was wowed at the community buy-in on these hot summer days! — Amanda Merl Put shops people actually want to go to in The Forum, try to attract a real sports bar to take over Lazy Dog, turn the old CinéBistro into a local movie theater or AMC, its own rec center with indoor pool and basketball court, something for kids and teens to actually hang out at. Maybe a local transit? — Marcus Watson More accessible public transportation. — Erica Rabinovich Love Peachtree Corners! Love the parks, shopping areas and activities. We desperately need a senior center like at Newtown Park. Would love to see it at Pinckneyville! — Lisa Cohen Berger Law enforcement keeping thugs away. — Chris Smith

I would love to see a rec center like Alpharetta has. They do a lot of programs for seniors (senior yoga, tai chi and senior Pilates fusion, art , trivia, board games) and also programming for children (like gymnastics, art or bicycle riding classes). Someone also mentioned a brewery/ci-

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

younger generations that reject this car dependency because that is your future. — Ryan Cavanagh

Lots to love here, but traffic has increased ten-fold since I moved here. Stop building homes, especially townhomes and apartments. Just absolutely STOP. I agree with more shade at Town Center Park. Access to Town Center concerts is horrible. Doing away with so much parking at The Forum was a bad move. I don’t go beyond the roundabout anymore. — Penny Duncan

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My greatest source of satisfaction is serving others, both in real estate and in my community.

Basketball courts — Sanaa Chandna Not spraying pesticides and weed killer on the parks. — Cindy Trapnell Peachtree Corners’ own police department! — Victoria Skillen

Whether you are looking to make our community your new home, moving locally or across the world, I am proud to offer the highest level of service. As a real estate expert who understands market trends, I am passionate about leveraging my acumen and the unrivaled marketing and resources of Sotheby’s International Realty® to achieve the best value for your investment.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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I love the location, with beautiful parks on the river and great road access to everywhere in Georgia. Great tree canopy and good mix of business and residential. Negatives are probably state issues: horrible timing on traffic signals on the Parkway, principally on left turns. The City should get advice from traffic engineers. — Rafa Garcia What makes PTC a great place to live? The people, the community, the Town Center Green and inclusivity. — call_me_cobb Makes great: Our family loves the Town Green. Better: Preserve green spaces. Adjust our fowl ordinance to allow residential homes to raise hens, quails for eggs. Match with the county’s ordinance. — pratiti_akash We love Peachtree Corners. However, we need more local mom-and-pop restaurants. I feel like most people

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drive to neighboring cities. Might be good to have some sort of forum to meet people (i.e. new moms, pickleball connect, etc.). We also need a Costco. — anfiyaah Less expensive restaurants that’s not fast food, like Outback, Longhorn, Blue Moon, Cheesecake Factory, Jim n Nicks or PF Chang’s. It’s not inexpensive, but a Kale Me Crazy [too]. — rebekah_vanable How about Sunday evening Boogie Bridge Dancing? — cindyfromthecorners Walk/bike trail like the Atlanta Beltline. — deemo4atl Beautify our roads and pedestrian walkways. We built a nice wide trail down E Jones Bridge. Let’s continue it around Jones Bridge Circle, W Jones Bridge and Peachtree Corners Circle. Connect it to the proposed Crooked Creek Trail. — j000stin A movie theater. I was devastated to find out CMX CinéBistro closed. — riahair_ ▪

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Pets & Their People 2026

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A Mix of Old and New for the 2026 Peachtree Corners Festival

models lined up in the Regus parking lot at Peachtree Corners Circle. An attendee favorite every year, the show is a thrilling competition as well as an exhibit. Anyone who wishes to participate can enter their car or bike with a simple $15 registration fee (onsite and Saturday only). Expert judges will examine the competing vehicles, and trophies will be awarded for top car, top bike and top class. Spectators can enjoy the car show free of charge, getting an up-close look at the stunning (and well-caredfor) vintage and contemporary rides. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Intuitive’s demo truck & the Kid’s Korner

eturning for its 15th year, the Peachtree Corners Festival will take to the Town Green and surrounding area for a full fall weekend of entertainment and fun on September 19 (from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and September 20 (from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.). As in previous years, the community celebration will offer a dynamic mix of live performances, vendor booths, good food and hands-on activities for all ages — all with free admission and parking. What started in 2011 as a one-day celebration to unite the community and showcase local businesses has grown to become a signature, weekend-long fall tradition for residents and a destination event for visitors from around metro Atlanta. This year promises to deliver the same fun and

festivities that people have come to expect, with a few new surprises. While the list of entertainers and activities for 2026 is still being finalized, Dave Huffman, Peachtree Corners Festival president, shared some of the highlights of the event, including musical and dance acts, the return of the Classic Car Show and the always popular Kid’s Korner.

Live performances

Another highlight of the weekend is the Intuitive demo truck showcasing the company’s da Vinci 5 surgical robot. Intuitive will once again bring their 18-wheeler with the mobile robot demo system to the festival for both days, giving guests the opportunity to try their hand at remote surgery using the system. The truck will be parked in a new location this year, right next to Fort Pain in the center of the festival. For the younger crowd, the family-favorite Kids’ Korner will feature fun games and activities again this year. Along with the incredible permanent play spaces at the Town Green, families can expect face painting, caricature artists, clowns, super-sized bubbles and plenty of space to run around and have a great time.

Live entertainment has always been a staple of the festival. This year, festival goers can look forward to the NHS Marching Band, Blackfoot Daisy and Gryphonix; performances by School of Rock, Metro Atlanta Dance, the Taiwanese School of Atlanta Drum Team and the Hip Hop All Stars Dance Team; a rocking set from Bulletproof Atlanta on Sunday afternoon to close out the weekend; and more. Performances take place on the VoxStage at Town Green, and the full lineup, along with show times and other performers, can be found on the Peachtree Corners Festival website.

The Classic Car & Bike Show

By Shawne Taylor

For car enthusiasts, the Classic Car & Bike Show will be back with its impressive display of gleaming chrome, vintage muscle and rare

Arts & crafts and handmade goods

serving funnel cakes, fried Twinkies, deep fried Oreos and other fun, fried festival goodies.

One of the big draws of the Peachtree Corners Festival is the artisan market. Huffman said they’re expecting more vendors this year than ever before. And the 2026 lineup showcases the talent and creativity of local artisans as well as creators from around the state. With a mix of long-time favorites coming back for another year and new vendors making their festival debut, guests will find a wide range of art, handmade goods and specialty crafts to browse or buy.

Long-time favorites such as Al’s Kettle Corn, Kona Ice and King of Pops will also be onsite with treats to keep you happy all weekend long. And Ohana Lemonade, Tropical Smashers and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee will help you stay hydrated and caffeinated.

A few of the 2026 festival vendors are: Cosa Linda Pottery: Peachtree Corners resident and high school ceramics teacher offering handmade, small-batch pottery. Learn more at instagram.com/ cosalindapottery. Crafted Curiosities: Family-run 3D print shop based in Duluth “bringing imagination to life” with novelty items, creative gifts and unique game-related accessories. Visit craftedcuriosities.net to learn more. their own special recipe. Learn more at sites.google. com/view/justrollwithitroswell. Kellie’s Recycled Creations: Handcrafted home goods and décor made with recycled wood, jewelry and glass materials. Visit facebook.com/kellies.recycled.creations for more. Portabakes Cakes: Homegrown, family business based in Decatur offering cakes by the slice, mini pound cakes and other treats. See the full menu at portabakes.com.

Home Fields: Unique business that creates handcrafted replicas of iconic football and baseball stadiums for display. Visit homefields.com for a look at their work. Honey Bee Crochet: Local business specializing in handmade, crochet blankets, toys, scarves and more. Visit them at honeybee-crochet.com for more information. Just Roll with It: Local cottage bakery based in Roswell, creating fresh homemade cinnamon rolls from

Whiskers n Wags Delights: Small Johns Creek-based business offering handmade, all natural, limited-ingredient dog treats in a variety of flavors and shapes. Learn more at wnwd. square.site.

Food and drink Of course, no festival weekend is complete without great food! The offerings this year build on all of the delicious treats that festival goers have enjoyed in the past, with new food trucks and vendors added to the mix for 2026. “We will have more food trucks this year than ever before,” Huffman shared. “I am particularly looking forward to having the Mister Softee truck, which will offer softserve ice cream, sundaes and milkshakes. In addition, we’ll have about a half dozen baked goods vendors located on the Town Green and along the crafts line.” While additional food vendors are still being added, a few already scheduled (and definitely worth a taste) are: Chuy’s Tacos: Popular taco truck serving tacos, quesadillas and tortas. ‘Cue Barbecue: Local BBQ spot serving up sliced or pulled pork/beef barbecue and sides. Hibachi Rito: Creative hibachi/burrito-fusion food truck with fresh flavors and ingredients. Jeremiah’s Italian Ice: Flavored Italian ices, “jelati” and other cool, sweet treats. Spoil Your Tummy: Carnival-style snack vendor

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Participation: Vendors, volunteers and sponsors To pull off an amazing weekend-long festival, organizers count on festival vendors, volunteers and sponsors. Volunteers for this year’s event are still being accepted. Pitching in to help is a great way to give back to the community and experience the festival from a different point of view. Volunteers will also receive an official Peachtree Corners Festival t-shirt. Sponsors are the driving force behind the Peachtree Corners Festival, ensuring that this community celebration happens year after year. A list of this year’s sponsors can be found on the Peachtree Corners Festival website. If you’d like to become a business sponsor or “friend of the festival” sponsor for 2026, volunteer to help out for the weekend or join the fun as a vendor or entertainer, check the website for details and applications. ▪

Festival details When: Saturday, Sept. 19 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Sept. 20 from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Where: Town Green at Peachtree Corners Town Center (5200 Town Center Blvd.) Admission: Free Pet Policy: Leashed dogs welcome Weather: Rain or shine For more information, scan the QR code.

Parking for the Festival Parking is free for both days. Spaces are available at the Town Center parking deck and at office lots located off of DaVinci Court. Parking at the large lot at DaVinci Court will put you immediately adjacent to the festival’s vendor craft booths. Guests can also park across the street at The Forum and use the Peachtree Corners pedestrian bridge to access Town Center. Town Center has designated handicap parking spaces that are clearly marked. There will also be marked spaces in the DaVinci Court lot adjacent to the booth area.

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Winging Their Way Into Your Heart

At Fancy Feathers and Parrot Productions, Brenda Bean has turned a lifelong fascination with birds into a thriving business — and a destination for parrot lovers.

renda Bean was 14 when she finally convinced her parents to let her have a parakeet. Her grandmother had one that would fly to a person’s shoulder, ask for a kiss and touch its beak to their face. To Bean, it seemed magical. So, when she finally got permission to choose her own bird, she headed to a pet store and selected the biggest, prettiest and most colorful parakeet in the cage. There was just one problem. “She was the oldest, most violent bird in the cage,” Bean recalled with a laugh. “I never played with her without bleeding.” For a 14-year-old who had waited so long for a feathered companion, the experience was devastating. About a year and a half later, the bird died. A veterinarian told Bean that the parakeet she thought was young had probably been 10 to 12 years old and died of old age. It wasn’t exactly the storybook beginning Bean had imagined. But more than five decades later, birds remain an integral part of her life. At 72, Bean is the owner of Fancy Feathers and Parrot Productions, a specialty bird business Brenda Bean sharing where her childhood fascination with kids her love of has evolved into a livelihood — and parrots a mission to help others experience the connection she had hoped to find all those years ago. “It’s magic,” Bean said. “You see a bird flying in the air, and when it’s resting on your hand, it’s because it wants to. It wants to be with you.”

Always the new kid

By Arlinda Smith Broady

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

Bean’s connection with animals takes on additional meaning when she talks about her childhood. Her father, Burley McAdams, worked designing pipelines and had previously served in the Navy. His career meant the family moved frequently — very frequently. Before graduating from high school, Bean said she had peachtreecornerslife

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attended 22 schools in 12 years, living in places ranging from Alaska to North Africa. She was perpetually the new kid. “I don’t remember a friend that I had growing up,” she said. “The first friend I had was my first husband.” Moving every few months taught her not to get too attached because another goodbye was always approaching. Perhaps that helps explain why she remembers that difficult little parakeet so vividly. “I really loved that stupid parakeet, even though she was so mean to me,” Bean said. “I just tried and tried to make her nice.” Years passed. Bean attended Texas A&M University and Rice University before leaving college to raise her children. Her first marriage ended. And, eventually, birds found their way back into her life. This time, she learned how to understand them.

Learning the language of birds In Texas during the 1980s, Bean became involved with a man who had a talent for training birds. They later married, and together, John and Brenda Bean began working with young birds, teaching them to stand calmly on perches, step onto a person’s hand and become comfortable interacting with humans. The training benefited both bird and owner. A tame bird was less likely to bite its new owner and far less likely to spend its life confined to a cage because someone was afraid to handle it. Bean discovered something else along the way: Birds were far more intelligent than many people realized.

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“These birds are as smart as a 5-year-old child,” she said. The old insult “birdbrain,” she noted, doesn’t come close to describing the animals she has spent decades observing. Parrots aren’t merely instinctive creatures, according to information Bean shares through Parrot Productions. They demonstrate emotions and preferences. They can be affectionate, jealous and demanding. They form bonds, establish habits and can even grieve. Bean and her husband John operated a bird business in Texas until an economic downturn made exotic birds a luxury few families could afford. The company eventually closed, and the family relocated to Georgia. For years, the Beans worked in heating and air conditioning while selling birds on the side. Then came an opportunity to return to the business in a much bigger way.

A new life for Fancy Feathers About nine years ago, Bean and her husband took over Fancy Feathers from its longtime owner, who had operated the bird business for roughly 40 years and was ready to retire. They retained the established name, recipes for specialty bird foods and other elements customers already knew.

But Bean had larger ambitions for the store itself. About five years ago, Fancy Feathers moved from its roughly 2,400-square-foot former location into a 5,400-square-foot, climate-controlled space designed to feel less like an afterthought and more like a destination for bird lovers. Bean said the difference between Fancy Feathers and a traditional pet store is apparent almost immediately. Big-box pet stores devote aisles to dogs, cats, fish and other animals, while bird owners may find only a limited selection tucked into a corner. At Fancy Feathers, birds aren’t a sideline. They are the business. “We sell birds and nothing but birds,” Bean said. And customers have noticed. “The business has grown outrageously” through word-of-mouth referrals, Bean said. Last year, she said, the business generated more than $1 million in sales. That success hasn’t made the work easy. “This business is a lot of work,” Bean said. “That’s why birds are getting more and more and more expensive because nobody wants to work this hard.” She credits her knowledgeable and hardworking staff for much of the success. “I could not have the business in the scope that it is without them,” she said. “It is a lot of hard work.”

More than 200 feathered personalities The store’s bird count stands at approximately 205

birds. And this isn’t a room filled with identical parakeets. Bean rattles off the inventory like someone reciting the names of an enormous extended family: macaws, cockatoos, Amazons, conures, African parrots, Indian ringnecks, Alexandrines, budgies, lovebirds, cockatiels, canaries and more. She is particularly proud of the store’s selection of conures, which she describes as among the best in the country. Maintaining that population requires constant attention. Bean said she works with breeders she has known for years and has personally observed how their birds are housed and cared for. She also holds a Georgia Department of Agriculture bird dealer license, which subjects the operation to state oversight. Cleanliness and disease prevention are priorities. Food and water bowls are cleaned and sanitized daily, and the business maintains protocols for responding if disease is suspected. Then there are the babies. At the time of the interview, Bean said she was hand-feeding about 48 baby birds three times a day, using a syringe fitted with a soft feeding tube. The work doesn’t stop once a bird leaves the store. Fancy Feathers provides free wing, toenail and beak

frightened of large birds a chance to discover how approachable and affectionate parrots can be. “They love to be cuddled,” Bean said. “They love to sit on your chest while you’re reclined and you pet their head and watch TV.”

trimming, which also gives Bean an opportunity to see birds again, check their weight and alert owners when something appears to require veterinary attention. For Bean, selling a bird isn’t simply completing a transaction. These animals can become companions for decades. A cockatiel, she said, can live nearly 30 years. Larger parrots can represent an even longer commitment.

take good care of it and continue to make it a destination for bird lovers,” she said. Finding your next best friend After so many years working with parrots, Bean can talk about breeding, nutrition, intelligence, behavior and husbandry with the ease of someone who has spent a lifetime learning her craft. But ask her why people want birds, and the answer becomes much simpler. It’s magic. A parrot perched on a person’s hand isn’t there because of a leash. It is an intelligent animal capable of forming preferences and relationships and, Bean believes, choosing to share that moment with you. That is the experience she wants more people to have, whether they encounter their first parrot during one of her programs or walk into Fancy Feathers looking for a companion of their own. Bean even has an invitation for those who find themselves unexpectedly enchanted by the idea. “You just need to come on in here and find your next best friend.” It fits perfectly with the slogan she has chosen for the business: “Winging our way into your hearts!” ▪

Birds take the show on the road Fancy Feathers is only one part of Bean’s work. Through Parrot Productions, she takes birds into libraries, schools, churches, birthday parties, retirement communities, family reunions and business events. With more than 40 years of experience with parrots, Bean says programs can be customized around educational subjects or an organization’s goals. Her website describes the presentations as opportunities for people of all ages to learn about parrots and compare them with birds they encounter in everyday life. But Bean’s favorite part isn’t necessarily the lesson. It’s the face. “I live for that face when you get a bird on somebody’s arm, and their eyes are wide in amazement,” she said. Family reunions hold a special place in her heart because she gets to watch older relatives observing children experiencing the birds. “There’s just something special about that,” Bean said. Those encounters also give people who may be

A business looking toward its next chapter After decades of working with birds, Bean is beginning to think about what happens when she eventually decides to step away. Fancy Feathers is considering signing a 10-year lease. Bean hopes the business will continue long after she stops working there. Her children and stepchildren aren’t interested in taking over, she said — not because the business isn’t successful, but because they understand the commitment it requires. “Even though we had a million dollars in sales last year,” Bean said, “it’s a lot of work.” So the long-term question isn’t simply who might buy the business someday. It’s who might understand it. Bean wants someone who will preserve Fancy Feathers as a place devoted specifically to birds and the people who love them. “I hope that we can pass it on to someone that would

Fancy Feathers and Parrot Productions 1895 Beaver Ridge Circle, Norcross 770-986-0661; fancyfeathersstore.com

BUSINESS

Blue Collar, Better Future: Why America Needs to Rebuild Its Skilled Trades Workforce ration with the Parker Strategy Group, 25% of skilled trades positions are projected to remain unfilled by 2030. That’s not a minor shortage. That’s an economic catastrophe waiting to happen — one that will cost the nation an estimated $325.6 billion in lost GDP annually, leave 2.8 million jobs vacant and drain $71.3 billion in tax revenue that should be funding schools, roads and community services. “My collar may be blue, but I make more money than you,” Niel Dawson, executive director of the Independent Electrical Contractors Atlanta, said of the organization’s unofficial motto. IEC Atlanta recently moved their offices to Peachtree Corners, opening a 27,000-square-foot space off of Research Drive where they provide apprenticeship training, membership opportunities and other valuable industry resources. His saying captures something America has forgotten: The skilled trades aren’t a backup plan. They’re a pathway to genuine prosperity.

The backbone nobody talks about Seven essential trades — construction, carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, welding, HVAC and mechanics — currently support 5.6 million jobs directly and 11.1 million jobs overall across the United States. These workers generate $521.3 billion in direct economic activity and contribute $284.2 billion in tax revenue. They build the buildings where we work, wire the homes where we sleep and maintain the systems that keep our communities functioning. Yet ask a high school guidance counselor about career paths, and the conversation typically centers on college degrees. Ask a parent what they want for their child, and the default answer remains a four-year university education — regardless of whether that

Niel Dawson (Photo by Rico Figliolini)

By Arlinda Smith Broady

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

merica faces a crisis that won’t make the evening news, but it will reshape the nation’s economic landscape. While politicians debate AI and tech innovation, a different kind of disruption is quietly unfolding: the skilled trades are hemorrhaging workers, and no one seems to notice. The numbers tell a sobering story. According to the National Trades Jobs Report published by the nonprofit organization Bring Back the Trades in collabopeachtreecornerslife

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Lauren Dodson (Photo by Rico Figliolini)

across the Southeast. Georgia alone has 340 new data centers proposed. Each one requires extensive electrical infrastructure, ongoing maintenance and specialized expertise. Solar energy installations are booming. Electric vehicle charging networks are expanding. The National Electrical Code — the rulebook for all electrical work — keeps growing thicker as technology evolves. “AI can’t replace an electrician,” Dawson said flatly. “You can’t outsource electrical work to another country. It is one of the most foolproof professions there is.”

When the workers aren’t there

James Scuka (Courtesy Shelter Guard Roofing)

investment makes financial sense or aligns with the student’s interests. “We were very much in an environment where all students were pushed toward a four-year degree,” said Lauren Dodson, vice president of economic development and continuing education at Gwinnett Tech. “It’s such a shame, because on our campus we have all these different programs and job outcomes for our students. I had no idea what was going on at Gwinnett Tech, and I was a teacher.” For James Scuka, owner of Shelter Guard Roofing, the college-versus-trades conversation isn’t theoretical. It’s playing out in his own family. Scuka has two sons — one in college and another in high school — and their interests illustrate why a single definition of postsecondary success doesn’t work for every student. “My oldest wants to do environmental science,” Scuka said. “My youngest wants nothing to do with college, so he’s leaning more towards trades.” Rather than viewing his younger son’s lack of interest in college as a failure to pursue a successful career, Scuka sees the trades as another legitimate possibility. His experience has given him a firsthand view of both the opportunities and the workforce challenges facing industries that depend on people willing to work with their hands. That cultural blind spot surrounding the trades has consequences. The nation is experiencing what some call a “silver tsunami” — roughly 50% of the skilled trades workforce is approaching retirement within the next five to 10 years. Unlike previous generational transitions, there aren’t enough young people trained and ready to replace them.

Scuka sees another side of the skilled labor shortage every day. He pointed out that residential roofing in metro Atlanta has traditionally depended heavily on Latino workers for its hands-on labor. Unlike electrical or plumbing work, roofing is not a licensed trade in Georgia, and companies commonly rely on subcontractor crews to perform installations. That reliance has created a particular vulnerability for roofing contractors as immigration enforcement has intensified. Scuka said some workers have become increasingly cautious about where they go during the workday. Others have left the country altogether. The result is a labor pool that is beginning to shrink. For roofing companies, the effect is showing up in both availability and price. “The price is ratcheting up quickly,” he said. “And the crews are drying up quickly.” Scuka’s experience adds another dimension to the skilled trades problem. Replacing retiring tradespeople is only part of the challenge. Employers also have to persuade a new generation of Americans that skilled, hands-on work is a viable career — particularly in industries that have long depended heavily on immigrant labor to fill those jobs.

Rethinking education for a new generation The solution isn’t complicated, but it requires a fundamental shift in how America thinks about education and career development. Gwinnett Tech, one of Georgia’s largest technical colleges, serves more than 50,000 students across multiple campuses and programs. The college operates on a simple premise: Provide people with skills and they gain the ability to earn a livable wage, which dramatically increases their quality of life. “We’ve got a 91.9% job placement rate,” Dodson said. “That’s what we’re in the business of. We teach every

individual and serve every business. We were born out of the need to help businesses and industry improve their workforce pipeline.” The college offers programs in HVAC, welding, electrical systems, carpentry, automotive technology — including a first-in-the-nation Mercedes-Benz training program — cybersecurity, nursing, emergency medical services and dozens of other fields. But the marketing hasn’t kept pace with the reality. Many families still don’t know these opportunities exist. The IECA takes a different approach. The nonprofit trade association runs a U.S. Department of Labor-certified apprenticeship program with 1,500 apprentices across seven locations in Georgia, plus online offerings. Apprentices earn while they learn. The contractor pays for tuition and books, which costs roughly $1,500 annually, compared with the $30,000 or more that for-profit programs charge. The organization also holds monthly job fairs where applicants interview with member contractors, and roughly a fourth are hired on the spot. Their average placement rate: one person per day.

Georgia’s skilled trades crisis: a state at risk While the national skilled trades shortage affects every region, Georgia faces particular vulnerability due to its rapid economic growth and the concentration of major infrastructure projects across the state. According to the National Trades Jobs Report analysis, Georgia falls within the South Atlantic region, which faces 292,663 unfilled skilled trades jobs and stands to lose $60.4 billion in total GDP if current workforce gaps persist. For a state that has positioned itself as a hub for technology, logistics and advanced manufacturing, this shortage threatens to undermine the economic advantages Georgia has cultivated. The impact is especially acute in Gwinnett County, home to some of Georgia’s fastest-growing industries. Dodson noted that within a 2.2-mile radius of Gwinnett Tech’s campus, there are approximately 26,000 students enrolled in technical education across multiple institutions. Yet even with this substantial pipeline, the demand for skilled workers continues to outpace supply. Georgia’s data center boom exemplifies the urgency. “These data centers are employing hundreds, thousands of people,” Dawson said. “The state of Georgia is number three on the list for data centers that are proposed.” Yet without a robust pipeline of trained electricians, HVAC technicians and construction workers, Georgia

Where the real jobs are Electricians top the shortage lists with roughly 81,000 annual openings and a rapid 9% projected growth rate. Carpenters face approximately 74,100 annual openings. Plumbers and pipefitters average 44,000. HVAC technicians are so desperately needed that the nation currently faces a shortage of 110,000 certified workers, with an additional 40,000 openings projected annually. These aren’t minimum-wage positions. A journeyman electrician in Georgia can earn six figures within five years, with no college debt. The work offers stability, benefits and a clear pathway for advancement — from apprentice to journeyman to foreman to business owner. “I can teach you skills,” Dawson explained. “I really can’t teach work ethic. That’s what my contractors say. Give me someone that will get up, get to the job, do what they’re told. That work ethic is so important.” The demand is real. Data centers are proliferating Pre-Appreticeship hands-on lab. (Photos courtesy of IEC)

time, and follow instructions. But for those willing to put in the effort, the rewards are substantial. Job security, competitive wages, benefits. The satisfaction of building something tangible or solving real problems. A career path that doesn’t require drowning in student debt. “You can work your way up the ladder,” Dawson explained. “You can become a business owner, become an electrical contractor. It’s not many careers you can go into where you can own your own business.”

A local and national choice

Deputy Executive director Jeff Rogers getting ready to distribte books

risks seeing these high-value projects delayed, scaled back or sourced through out-of-state contractors who bring their own workforce. The tax revenue that should benefit Georgia communities could instead flow elsewhere. Beyond data centers, Georgia’s aging water infrastructure represents another critical need. The state’s rapid urbanization has strained decades-old municipal systems. As these systems require replacement and upgrades, the demand for certified water operators, plumbers and maintenance technicians will intensify. “There’s a huge age gap,” said Courtney Lee, director of workforce development at The Water Tower Innovation Hub. “You’ve got some utilities where it’s two people running the utility in rural areas. And if they retire, then that’s it. It’s lost.” The loss of institutional knowledge — the experience and expertise held by workers nearing retirement — cannot be quickly replaced. Training takes time. A four-year apprenticeship in the electrical trades for example, while shorter than a college degree, still requires sustained commitment and resources.

Meeting people where they are Perhaps the most innovative approach comes from The Water Tower, which operates the Water Training and Recruitment Hub, an EPA-funded program designed to reach populations traditionally excluded from skilled trades careers. The program targets unaccompanied youth, formerly incarcerated individuals, homeless people and single parents — populations that have barriers to entry that go beyond lack of skills.

Someone aging out of foster care at 16 might not have a birth certificate. Someone with a criminal record might face employer discrimination. A single mother might struggle to afford child care while attending training. “We do have paper write-ups on several of the target communities that say ‘here’s how a utility can easily support that group’ and some things to expect when they’re bringing them in,” Lee said. The organization provides not just training but wraparound services: child care reimbursement, transportation assistance, resume help, mock interviews and mentorship. The program stretches training over four to eight months instead of a single intensive week, combining classroom instruction with hands-on field work and online modules. Graduates move into entry-level positions with competitive salaries and clear advancement opportunities. “Within six months, they went from ‘I couldn’t tell you where my water came from’ to ‘I work in this industry, I have a full-time career, I’m getting benefits and salary,’” Lee said. “Many of our graduates have come back and say, ‘I didn’t even know this was an option.’”

America stands at a crossroads — continue funneling students toward four-year degrees regardless of whether they fit or are affordable, while watching as infrastructure crumbles and the economy loses billions annually. Or rebuild the pipeline that makes this country function: the skilled trades. The work has already begun. Bloomberg Philanthropies launched a $90 million Skilled Trades Initiative. The federal government expanded Workforce Pell Grants and adjusted 529 savings plans to cover trade certifications. Colleges, nonprofits and trade associations are innovating faster than ever before. But awareness remains the biggest barrier. Parents and students don’t know. Employers aren’t sure where to find workers. The cultural narrative that equates success with a college degree persists, even as the data screams otherwise. “What is your long-term goal for your organization?” Dodson asked business leaders during a Southwest Gwinnett Chamber luncheon. “What is it going to look like in 10 years? What are some small steps you can take today to help leverage yourself to get some of the best talent?” Those questions apply to Georgia and the nation as well. They also apply inside individual households. One of Scuka’s sons sees college as the path toward a career. The other is considering the trades. Neither choice represents greater or lesser ambition. If America wants to maintain its infrastructure, grow its economy and provide genuine opportunity to the next generation, it needs room for both. The skilled trades aren’t a fallback. They’re the foundation. ▪

What it takes to succeed Not everyone is suited for the trades, and the professionals in these fields are honest about that. You need physical capability. You need mental acuity — calculations, problem-solving, understanding complex systems. You need to be comfortable working outside in heat and cold. You need to show up on time, every

Second-year apprentices’ first day of class at IECA

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Connecting Southwest Gwinnett SWGC Chairman Andrew Hajduk wants businesses, cities and nonprofits to collaborate, grow and strengthen the community together

Andrew Hajduk (right) with Barry Adams (former owner of Peachtree Awnings) and recent speaker Lauren Dodson of Gwinnett Tech.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

The next 10 million

ndrew Hajduk believes visibility matters. In business, as in life, people cannot support an organization they do not know exists. That is why Hajduk and his company, VoxPop-Uli, seem to appear everywhere these days — at community celebrations, business gatherings, city events and beside the Town Green stage that bears the Vox name. For Hajduk, being seen is not about collecting attention for its own sake. It is about becoming part of the place where he lives and works. “If we want to impact the community, and if we want to grow, we have to be everywhere and we have to be engaged,” he said. That commitment to engagement has helped elevate Vox-Pop-Uli’s local profile. It also led Hajduk into a new role as chairman of the Southwest Gwinnett

Chamber of Commerce. He accepted the position with the energy of someone who does not merely want to preside over meetings. He wants to help create a central gathering place where the area’s businesses, municipalities, nonprofit organizations and professionals can connect with one another and work toward shared success. “My goal for this chamber is to create a place for the businesses of Southwest Gwinnett to connect, collaborate and grow together,” Hajduk said. “There are too many great companies right here, and we just need that single hub where we can come together.”

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Vox-Pop-Uli has operated in Peachtree Corners since 2005, before the city was incorporated. Yet for much of that time, Hajduk said the company was not deeply involved in the surrounding business community. That began to change several years ago as Hajduk and his team examined the company’s future. An industry shift prompted them to reconsider where the next phase of growth might come from. For years, the company had traveled to markets such as Las Vegas, Dallas and New York in pursuit of business opportunities. Then Hajduk began looking closer to home. The company adopted a phrase that would guide its strategy: “The next 10 million is within the next 10 miles.” The message was not merely catchy. It reflected the realization that Southwest Gwinnett and the surrounding metro Atlanta area were filled with thriving businesses that needed the services Vox-Pop-Uli provides. Hajduk began asking why the company was constantly flying across the country when potential clients, collaborators and partners were located only a few miles away. He considers Georgia one of the best places in the nation to build a company and describes the Peachtree Corners, Norcross and Southwest Gwinnett area as particularly rich with opportunity. “If you can’t make it here, you’re not going to make it anywhere,” he said. “There’s just so much opportunity for everybody here with the growth that we have and everything around us.”

Making connections That shift toward local engagement eventually brought him to a Southwest Gwinnett Chamber event. He said he immediately connected with the organization and the people in the room. One of those early connections was banker Weare Gratwick. The relationship grew beyond traditional banking as Gratwick learned more about Hajduk’s plans and began serving as an adviser and friend. During one memorable telephone call, Gratwick told Hajduk about an apparel company for sale in Doraville, just 6.2 miles from Vox-Pop-Uli. The owner was in his 80s and ready to retire. His children did not want to take over the company. Gratwick believed Hajduk should consider the opportunity. Hajduk ultimately purchased the business.

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The acquisition transformed Vox-Pop-Uli, significantly increasing its size and positioning it for a new level of growth. “The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber changed my life,” Hajduk said. “That acquisition was the single biggest thing that this company has ever done.” Without the chamber, Hajduk said, he would not have met Gratwick. Without Gratwick, he likely would not have learned about the company or completed the acquisition. The experience gave Hajduk a personal understanding of what can happen when business owners do more than exchange cards. Genuine relationships can lead to advice, partnerships, introductions and opportunities that might never appear through a simple online search. “That’s what I believe it’s all about,” he said. “I believe it’s all about connection. I believe that collaboration is what we all need to be working for.”

Southwest Gwinnett is home to an impressive range of employers, including major corporations, family-owned businesses, professional service providers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs. Hajduk believes they can all benefit from greater interaction. He also wants chamber membership to extend deeper into companies. Rather than having only an owner, executive or salesperson attend events, Hajduk would like businesses to involve employees from human resources, accounting, operations and other departments. Doing so would broaden the professional development available to staff while creating more connections between area companies. The chamber, in turn, must offer programming that gives those employees a reason to participate. “I want people to have the mindset that if the chamber is somewhere in a room, I want to be in that room,” Hajduk said.

Giving back through leadership

Bringing businesses and cities together

When chamber leaders asked Hajduk whether he would consider becoming chairman, he readily accepted. His first response, however, was candid: He was not entirely certain what the job required. The chamber’s leadership was not looking for someone who already had every answer. They wanted his ideas, enthusiasm, vision and leadership. Hajduk saw the opportunity as a responsibility. After all, the organization had played an important role in his company’s development. Serving as chairman was a way to repay that impact while helping other businesses discover similar value. “I felt that that was my duty at that point,” he said. “Because of what the chamber had done for me, I wanted to continue and try to take it to the next level.” His goals include increasing member participation, improving programming and making the chamber relevant to a wider variety of companies and employees. Some people still imagine chambers of commerce as organizations primarily designed for small retailers or sales professionals. Hajduk wants companies of every size and industry to see a place for themselves.

A major part of Hajduk’s vision involves building stronger, more formal relationships between the chamber and the cities it serves. Southwest Gwinnett includes communities with distinct identities and governments, including Peachtree Corners, Norcross and Berkeley Lake. Hajduk wants the chamber to work closely with elected officials, city managers and economic development professionals throughout the area. Businesses contribute licensing fees, tax revenue, jobs and consumer activity to cities. Yet many business owners and employees do not live within the city where they work and cannot vote in its elections. That makes it especially important, Hajduk said, to create channels through which the business community can be heard. “Businesses don’t get to vote, but our voices need to be heard,” he said. He is not advocating for businesses to overpower residents or local governments though. His preferred word is collaboration. The best communities, he said, emerge when resi-

dents, business leaders, nonprofit organizations and city officials understand their shared interests and work in harmony. Healthy businesses create employment and generate revenue. Strong cities offer amenities and services that attract residents and employers. Those residents, in turn, support local stores, restaurants and service providers. Hajduk wants Southwest Gwinnett to become an even stronger place for people to live, work and spend their money. “That’s how we win as a community,” he said. “It’s

Ryan Jones, the executive director of NCM

about the citizens, the businesses, everybody and how we work in harmony.”

Creating a chamber with a cause

Hajduk with Mayor Mike Mason of Peachtree Corners, Mayor Lois Salter of Berkeley Lake and Norcross Mayor Craig Newton. Photo by Rico Figliolini.

The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber has long embraced the nonprofit community, and Hajduk wants to deepen that relationship. Through the chamber, he has learned more about organizations addressing needs that are not always visible in one of metro Atlanta’s most prosperous areas. He pointed to the work of Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries and other nonprofits serving people experiencing food insecurity and financial hardship. “There’s such incredible diversity in this county, and we’re so blessed,” Hajduk said. “We’ve got to make sure that we know what’s going on with everybody and how we can help.” Chamber members have participated in projects such as packing food bags for seniors and supporting other local service initiatives. Going forward, Hajduk wants the organization to move beyond occasional volunteer activities and develop a sustained service cause. The objective is to make community involvement a continuing part of the chamber’s identity. Membership should help a business grow, he said, but it should also offer a meaningful way to serve. “One person can help,” Hajduk said. “One hundred people can really make an impact.” The chamber’s future, as he envisions it, will include enhanced member programs, stronger city partnerships, more exclusive events and a clearly defined commitment to community service. Its Thursday Thought Leaders gatherings have already undergone a visible change, moving from

breakfast to lunch. The change occurred shortly before Hajduk took office, but he supports it. Morning events often competed with family responsibilities, emergencies, traffic and other obligations. Lunchtime offered fewer competing activities, and the response from members was overwhelmingly positive. The chamber retained the luncheon format and continues to build on it.

More than networking Business owners commonly join chambers in search of networking opportunities. Hajduk does not discourage that goal, but he believes effective networking begins with a different question. Instead of entering a room and immediately asking, “What can I get?” he encourages members to ask, “Who can I help?” Hajduk attributes a favorite lesson to leadership expert John Maxwell: Those who want to help themselves should first focus on helping others. That perspective changes networking from a series of quick transactions into a long-term practice of listening, contributing and connecting people. “Be interested before you’re interesting,” Hajduk tells his sales staff. He applies the same principle at chamber events. Learn about the person standing across from you before launching into a sales pitch. Find out what that person’s company does, what challenges it faces and what connections might be useful. The rewards may not arrive immediately. Hajduk cautions business owners against paying membership dues, attending one gathering and expecting a sudden flood of customers. “If you believe that signing up for the chamber and coming to an event is going to transform your business after a single event, you’re mistaken,” he said. Chamber membership, he said, is like a gym membership. Paying the fee does not produce results. Members must show up, participate and do the work. “The gym membership doesn’t get you in shape,” Hajduk said. “You’ve got to actually go.”

Building skills and confidence The return on chamber involvement should not be measured only in dollars. Members can also strengthen skills they will use throughout their careers. At a Coffee Connections gathering, for example, participants may have 30 seconds to introduce themselves and their companies. That short presentation helps employees become more confident speaking before a group and more concise when explaining what they do. At luncheons, professionals can refine their elevator pitches, learn from speakers and gather information about economic trends, city projects and business conditions. Hajduk once struggled with public speaking himself. His first boss told him he would have to learn to stand before people and communicate comfortably. Today, Hajduk appears at ease with a microphone, but that confidence was developed through repeated practice. He encourages his employees to do the same. During one event, an employee grew nervous as her turn to introduce the company approached. Hajduk quietly slipped out of the room, leaving her to handle the introduction herself. She succeeded. The next day, she proudly reported that she had confronted the fear and gained confidence. Hajduk congratulated her, then asked a simple question: “Did you die?” She had not, of course. The anticipated fear had

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

been far greater than the actual experience. Chamber participation creates a relatively safe place to practice those moments. Over time, employees become better presenters, stronger salespeople and more confident representatives of their companies. Speakers can also offer information members use long after an event ends. Hajduk recalled attending a presentation by Georgia Tech economist Dr. Alfie Meek. He initially wondered how engaging an economist’s presentation might be, but found Meek informative and entertain-

Atlanta Tec Crowd in Pe

Founders, investors and i a week designed to show By Arlinda Smith Broady

Dr. Alfie Meek

ing. Hajduk now follows his work and uses the economic data he provides to make better decisions as a business owner and salesperson. “If we just all open ourselves up to that, we’ll all be more successful,” he said.

The power of being in the room Technology has made it possible to communicate with nearly anyone, nearly anywhere. Artificial intelligence promises to make business faster and more efficient. Hajduk welcomes those tools, but he does not believe they can replace what happens when people gather face to face. Human beings build trust through conversations, shared experiences and the willingness to listen to people whose perspectives may differ from their own. “We don’t all have to get along, but we can all respect each other and hear each other out,” he said. That, Hajduk believes, is one of the chamber’s most important functions. It creates a room where people can speak, listen, learn and discover what they might accomplish together. “AI is going to be transformative,” he said, “but it will never replace the human connection.” For Hajduk, the next chapter of the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber is grounded in that connection. The programs may evolve. The events may become more ambitious. City partnerships may become more formal, and the organization’s service efforts may grow. But the core mission remains straightforward: Bring people into the room and give them a reason to return. Hajduk invites business owners who have never attended a chamber gathering to come see what is happening. He also welcomes those who may have attended in the past but did not immediately find what they needed. “Try it again,” he said. “Come see what we’re doing and what we’re all about, because I promise you, one, it’s different than it was, and two, we are going to continue to make an impact in this community.”▪

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Atlanta Tech Week 2026 began with a simple premise: Get people in the same place, start conversations and let innovation take it from there. Judging by the crowd that filled Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners on Sunday, August 9, plenty of people were ready to talk. More than 2,700 people registered for the opening-day programming, a new record for Atlanta Tech Park, according to Atlanta Tech Week’s Avoilan Bingham. Across metro Atlanta, more than 250 events were scheduled as part of the weeklong celebration of entrepreneurs, investors, technology companies, creatives and community builders. “This is the start of a phenomenal week celebrating our tech ecosystem,” Bingham told the crowd. Atlanta Tech Week, now in its fourth year, is produced by Render Group and supported by a network of hosts, sponsors and innovation organizations. Programming moves through several metro Atlanta communities during the week, with RenderATL anchoring activities downtown August 12-13. But this year’s first stop was Peachtree Corners.

Innovation outside the Perimeter Atlanta Tech Park and neighboring Curiosity Lab served as twin hubs for opening-day activities, offering everything from artificial intelligence discussions and startup pitches to investor panels, robotics and even Tai Chi on the lawn. Curiosity Lab Executive Director Emily Heintz welcomed visitors to Peachtree Corners and encouraged them to make the short walk between the two innovation centers. Curiosity Lab works with technology companies from around the world to test and validate emerging technologies in Peachtree Corners. During Atlanta Tech Week, attendees could see some of that innovation in action, including robots serving snacks, along with hard-tech and investor programming. For Nashlee Young, director of operations at Atlanta Tech Park, hosting the opening day provided an opportunity to remind attendees that Atlanta’s technology community extends far beyond downtown. Whether inside or outside the Perimeter, she said, the region is filled with entrepreneurs, investors, established companies and innovation centers. “Atlanta, Georgia is the best-kept secret for technology,” Young said. The week gives those sometimes separate corners of the technology community an opportunity to see one another. “You’ll get to engage with other communities,” Young told attendees. “You’ll get to see other entrepreneurs, meet investors or enterprises as well.”

ch Week Kicks Off With Record eachtree Corners

innovators gathered at Atlanta Tech Park and Curiosity Lab to launch wcase metro Atlanta’s growing technology ecosystem Making the connections Young emphasized that simply attending an event is not enough. The value comes from meeting people, participating in programs and exploring communities that may previously have been unfamiliar. Atlanta Tech Park’s mission, she said, is helping companies of all sizes — startups as well as small, midsize and large businesses — connect with the people and resources they need to grow. Atlanta Tech Week amplifies that effort across the region. Programming at the Peachtree Corners kickoff included sessions on the augmented workforce, AI agents, telematics, women applying AI, workforce changes, AI safety and security, venture investing and the importance of startups to successful innovation ecosystems. A startup pitch session featured Atlanta Tech Park’s first cohort, while corporate and community partners offered demonstrations and other activations throughout the facility. Sponsors and partners included Geotab, Singular, AT&T, Cox Enterprises, Partnership Gwinnett and others. Young encouraged guests to wander, learn and network — with one gentle rule. People holding conversations while speakers were presenting were asked to move to the café, courtyard or another gathering area. The idea was not to discourage networking. Quite the opposite. The day was designed for it.

Emily Heintz. Photo by Gabby Ma.

A citywide technology showcase Atlanta Tech Week continued through August 14, moving from Peachtree Corners into downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, the Westside and Midtown. RenderATL will bring additional programming downtown, including the Silicon South Summit and AI Expo. The broader goal is to demonstrate the depth of a technology ecosystem that Young believes remains underestimated nationally. Atlanta offers talented technology professionals, major corporations, startup infrastructure and a comparatively affordable environment in which companies can grow, she said. But statistics and facilities only tell part of the story. The people filling Atlanta Tech Park told the rest. Founders sat beside investors. Startups mingled with global companies. Technology enthusiasts moved between panels while entrepreneurs practiced pitches and companies demonstrated what they were building. Those encounters are exactly what Atlanta Tech Week was designed to produce. The technology may be sophisticated, but the formula behind the week is refreshingly human: Put interesting people in a room, give them something worth talking about and see what happens next. ▪

Brooks Law Partners Builds Its Practice Around People

The courtroom can be rearranged for mock trials, focus groups, training sessions and monthly case reviews. Its furniture is movable, allowing the room to shift from a formal courtroom setting into a collaborative space where the firm’s attorneys, paralegals and administrative staff can examine cases together. It is a practical expression of Brooks’ larger philosophy: People perform better when they are prepared, supported and permitted to be themselves.

A firm designed differently

Natanya Brooks

he rainbow-colored car parked outside Brooks Law Partners offers the first clue that this is not a conventional law office. Inside, the differences become even more apparent. Family photographs and children’s artwork share space with trial exhibits. A generously stocked snack room resembles a home pantry. A large kitchen was designed with enough seating to bring much of the staff together around one table. Employees decorate their offices to reflect their personalities, and no one appears partic-

ularly interested in fitting the traditional image of a buttoned-up legal professional. Then there is the courtroom. Not a conference room dressed up for special occasions, but a working courtroom where attorneys prepare for trials, clients learn what to expect, witnesses practice testifying and staff members sharpen their skills. For Brooks Law Partners founder Natanya Brooks, each detail is intentional. “You can’t be a trial lawyer and not have a courtroom,” she said, comparing legal preparation to athletic training. “If you’re a basketball player, you have a court. I was a swimmer. You have a pool.”

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Photos by Tracey Rice

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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Brooks launched the firm in 2018 with only a handful of relatively straightforward automobile accident cases. Eight years later, Brooks Law Partners has grown to about 25 employees, including 10 attorneys, and handles significantly more complex litigation. The firm’s work now includes serious injury, wrongful death and medical malpractice cases. “I started with maybe three cases that were all rear-end car wrecks,” she said. “Now, our last trial was an $18 million verdict in Gwinnett County for a medical malpractice case.” The growth was not simply about accumulating more clients or opening more offices. Brooks said she spent years assembling a team, developing systems and building the capacity to handle cases that can alter the course of a family’s life. “The machine has been built,” she said. “The people are here, the team is here, everyone knows what they’re doing, everyone’s amazing, everyone gets along. Now, it’s just being the most efficient, productive and best that we can be.” In addition to its Peachtree Corners location, the firm has offices in Marietta and Peachtree City. Those satellite locations were created largely in response to where employees lived, rather than as part of a predetermined expansion strategy. When talented attorneys and paralegals faced lengthy commutes to Peachtree Corners, Brooks looked for a solution that would give them professional workspaces closer to home. “We really built everything, again, around the people,” she said. That people-first approach also led the firm to adopt a loyalty-based, work-from-home policy. As employees remain with the firm, they earn additional remote-work opportunities. Brooks initially considered the arrangement a way to compete for and retain good employees while managing the financial realities of a growing practice. It became part of a broader culture in which flexibility is treated as a tool for producing better work, not as a concession.

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Authenticity as a qualification At Brooks Law Partners, individuality is more than tolerated. It can be an advantage. When intake specialist Zoe Gordon arrived for her interview in a brightly decorated car and presented a résumé printed in pink, Brooks was impressed before the formal conversation began. “I felt like she really knew herself, and she wasn’t afraid,” Brooks said. “She wasn’t putting herself in a container. That’s what I’m looking for — someone who is authentic.” Gordon, a Peachtree Corners native, brought an unconventional professional background to the firm. Her previous experience included information technology and cybersecurity support in a COVID-19 laboratory, jewelry buying at a metaphysical store and management of an online Minecraft server. She is also a nature lover, artist, cosplay enthusiast and spiritual wellness advocate whose pets include a cat, fish and jumping spiders. Those details may seem far removed from personal injury law, but Brooks saw something more important: an ability to connect with people. As an intake specialist, Gordon is often the first person to speak with potential clients after an injury or traumatic event. Her empathy, Brooks said, is a vital professional skill. “She really cares about people. She really connects.” Paralegal Athena Takla followed a more traditional path into the legal profession, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Georgia State University and completing the University of Georgia’s paralegal certificate program. Yet she, like the rest of the staff, contributes to a workplace that resists reducing people to job titles. The office space reflects that philosophy. Employees’ family photographs, personal collections, artwork and interests are visible throughout the building. Brooks wants people to bring their full identities to work rather than assuming they must adopt a uniform legal persona. “We have all different types,” she said. “Everyone is uniquely themselves.” There is one nonnegotiable requirement: They must want to be part of a team. “This is a team, and we all work together,” Brooks said. “Everyone has a different piece of the puzzle. If you don’t like that, then it’s not the place for you.”

Leadership from the coach’s position Brooks does not describe her leadership style in terms of authority. She is more likely to compare herself to a coach. Her background as a competitive swimmer helped shape that view. The best coaches, she said, do not improve athletes by constantly berating them. They provide direction, create conditions for success and demonstrate their own commitment. “I think of myself more as a coach,” said Brooks. “The coach is supporting the players and also putting in the most hours. I’m going to be here. I’m going to meet with people. I’m going to do whatever I need to do. I’m going to support you.” She rejects micromanagement as both unnecessary and ineffective. Employees who have demonstrated that they can perform their jobs are expected to exercise professional judgment. “If they’re here, they do a great job,” she said. “They don’t need to be micromanaged. They know what they’re doing.” That does not mean the firm operates without oversight. Brooks meets with teams, reviews cases and relies on systems designed to ensure that matters continue moving forward. Monthly presentations allow the firm to examine each case, identify

delays, discuss strategy and determine where additional attention may be needed. The collaborative approach also gives attorneys and paralegals opportunities to learn from one another. The firm calls its full-team training sessions “boot camps.” Employees from all three offices gather in the courtroom for instruction, practice and discussion. Brooks makes a point of including

“I like showing things and teaching and acting things out,” she said. “Sometimes words get lost a little bit.”

Advocacy beyond the courthouse Brooks’ definition of advocacy does not end at the courtroom door. When Georgia lawmakers considered Senate Bill 68, a sweeping tort reform measure that proposed

Natanya Brooks in their mock courtroom.

attorneys, paralegals and nonlegal staff because each person plays a role in the client’s experience. That experience can begin during one of the most frightening periods of a person’s life. A serious collision, medical error or unexpected death can destabilize an entire family. At Brooks Law Partners, staff members say clients are not treated as case numbers. Attorney and Peachtree Corners resident, Jennifer Ivey Range, credited that attitude directly to the firm’s founder. “If Natanya didn’t give a flip about clients, then nobody else would be able to,” she said during a tour of the office.

Showing, not merely telling Brooks’ unconventional instincts extend into the courtroom. She frequently uses demonstrative evidence, medical illustrations, physical objects and other visual tools to help jurors understand what an injured person experienced. In one trial, Brooks wore a client’s orthopedic boot and walked before the jury. Rather than merely describing how difficult the device made it to move, she demonstrated it. “I could say it was hard for her to walk in this, or I could just show them,” Brooks said. “I put it on and walked around, and they saw it. I didn’t have to say anything.” The firm’s “war room” contains exhibits and materials used to prepare for upcoming trials, including complex medical malpractice matters. Elsewhere in the building, preserved trial exhibits serve as reminders of previous cases and as teaching tools for the next one. Brooks said legal work sometimes becomes overly dependent on words. She prefers to combine legal precision with creativity, helping jurors see and understand what happened.

significant changes to Georgia’s civil justice system, she and members of her staff went to the state capitol to advocate for injured Georgians and their families, speaking out against provisions they believed would limit their rights and access to justice. For many employees, the experience became one of the most meaningful moments of the year. The team made signs, spoke with legislators, participated in hearings and helped bring survivors of sex trafficking to the capitol to explain how proposed changes could affect victims seeking accountability from hotels and motels that knowingly allowed trafficking to occur. Their efforts contributed to an exception preserving potential liability in sex-trafficking cases when lodging establishments know what is happening and fail to intervene, Brooks said. She recalled accompanying one survivor to speak with lawmakers shortly before a vote. “You could hear a pin drop,” Brooks said. The experience also helped inspire Brooks and two other attorneys to establish Voices of Families for Justice, an advocacy organization dedicated to educating lawmakers about the real-world impact of changes to Georgia’s civil justice system and giving affected families a voice in the legislative process. Brooks entered the legislative arena without prior lobbying experience. What she had was subject-matter knowledge, courtroom experience and a conviction that the proposed laws would affect real people. “I had no clue what I was doing,” she said. “I had never advocated down there, but I went and talked to every legislator, every senator. I was good at it because I cared.” Her willingness to enter unfamiliar territory is rooted in a family tradition of public service. Continued on page 48

Continued from page 47

Brooks’ mother worked as a social worker for 42 years, and her father led a community justice nonprofit. He also challenged a filing fee that made it difficult for people without substantial financial resources to run for office, arguing that leadership should not be restricted to the wealthy. Brooks said advocacy is “in my blood.” She initially studied business and did not grow up planning to become an attorney. While coaching swimming at a country club, she met lawyers who encouraged her to consider the profession and offered to write recommendations. Law school became the unexpected route through which she could put long-held values into action. “Being an attorney is a way that I can advocate and a way that I can take care of a group of people,” she said. “It’s one piece of the puzzle that starts with, ‘This is a community, and how do you give back to your community?’”

IN PHOTOS: Happenings around Peachtree Corners

The Nesbit Memorial plaque, honoring the contributions and legacy of Perry P. Nesbit on the city of Peachtree Corners is now in its permanent home and open to the public. (Photo courtesy of the City of Peachtree Corners)

Light Up The Corners Photos by Aaliyah Man

Building the better jet After years of rapid growth, Brooks is no longer focused primarily on constructing the firm. She believes the foundation is in place. Her attention has shifted toward refinement: improving systems, planning further into the future, developing partnerships, producing the strongest possible legal work and ensuring that clients receive the treatment they deserve. During the firm’s early years, Brooks compared the experience to building an airplane while it was already in flight. Now that it is airborne, she wants to transform it into “the most amazing jet there is.” That does not necessarily mean becoming the largest firm or planting offices across the country. Brooks’ growth has typically followed people, needs and opportunities rather than a rigid expansion plan. She trusts that the next chapter will reveal itself much as law school did. “I would like that whatever is next is something I couldn’t even think of sitting here,” she said. Whatever comes, Brooks appears determined to preserve the principles that brought the firm this far: preparation without pretense, ambition without intimidation and individuality bound together by teamwork. The courtroom, family kitchen, rainbow car, medical illustrations and children’s artwork are not competing pieces of Brooks Law Partners. Together, they explain it. The firm is serious about its cases because it is serious about people. And Brooks believes people do their best work when they are allowed to be fully human. ▪

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

An Update on Deer Management in Peachtree Corners

arlier this year, I shared information about the City’s efforts to better understand and address the growing impact of deer in Peachtree Corners. Since then, we have continued working with state and federal wildlife professionals to help implement the steps outlined in the City’s Deer Management Plan.

This remains an important issue for our community. Deer are a valued part of our natural environment, but the population study conducted in late 2025 estimated approximately 193 deer per square mile within Peachtree Corners. For comparison, wildlife experts typically recommend a density of around 25 deer per square mile in suburban environments. The study also identified signs of environmental stress associated with the deer population, including heavy

browsing of native vegetation, the spread of invasive plants and a low fawn-to-doe ratio. Combined with resident reports of property damage, vehicle encounters and other concerns, the findings demonstrated the need for the City to continue pursuing a thoughtful approach to the issue. I am proud that the City has taken one of the most comprehensive and collaborative approaches to deer management in the metro area. Our efforts include annual professional deer population studies, a formal Deer Management Plan, and strong partnerships with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and USDA Wildlife Services. Understanding the City’s Role As a reminder, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has sole authority over wildlife management in

Georgia. Cities cannot independently create or implement deer population management programs. All population-control methods must be conducted through programs authorized by the State. The USDA Wildlife Services Wildlife Damage Management Program is the DNR-authorized population reduction option available to communities outside of regulated hunting. Other methods sometimes discussed, including sterilization, immunocontraception and relocation, are not currently authorized by DNR for deer population management in Georgia. The City’s role is therefore to work within that framework. We can gather reliable data, provide information to residents, facilitate communication between USDA Wildlife Services and property owners, support authorized efforts and continue advocating for solutions that address the concerns of our community.

How You Can Help

Moving from Planning to Implementation

Because deer are located primarily on private property, you have an important role to play in addressing the impacts of an overabundant deer population. I am asking everyone to do their part.

In February, the City adopted the Peachtree Corners Deer Management Plan, establishing a framework for how we will continue to monitor deer populations, communicate with residents and support management efforts authorized by the State of Georgia. The plan is intended to be updated annually as new survey information and population data become available.

Please do not intentionally feed the deer. Feeding concentrates deer in unnaturally high numbers, alters their natural movement patterns, and can contribute to the spread of tick-borne diseases. Concentrating deer in residential areas also increases browsing damage to your neighbors’ landscaping and gardens, raises the risk of vehicle collisions, and works directly against the management efforts described above. If you want to help, avoiding practices that attract and concentrate deer is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take.

Upcoming Town Hall Meeting I know many of you have questions about deer management. I regularly hear from people asking about feeding, deterrents, hunting, and a variety of other related issues. And you do not need to take my word for any of it. That is why I have asked the deer experts at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to participate in a Town Hall meeting and answer your questions directly, and they have agreed. It will be an opportunity to hear directly from the professionals who work on these issues every day and to ask questions of the agency responsible for wildlife management in Georgia. Additional details, including the meeting date and location, will be announced in the coming weeks. Please monitor the City’s website, event calendar, and social media.

We are now beginning the next phase of that work. Currently, USDA Wildlife Services has been in contact with several owners of suitable properties within Peachtree Corners and is working directly with those property owners to implement a deer population control program where properties meet the necessary safety and eligibility requirements. Program implementation is already underway, and population-reduction activities are expected to begin this fall. Participation remains voluntary and requires permission from the property owner. The City will continue to fully assist USDA Wildlife Services and participating property owners.

Mike Mason, Mayor

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

Connect with the City of Peachtree Corners @peachtreecornersga @peachtreecornersga @peachtreecornersnetwork @PtreeCorners @city-of-peachtree-corners

Peachtree Corners City Hall 310 Technology Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Telephone: 678-691-1200

Continued on page 50

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INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS Continued from page 49

At the same time, the City’s second annual deer population study began on August 7. Cameras will once again be placed at locations throughout the community to collect information about the number and distribution of deer in Peachtree Corners. This annual study will allow us to compare data from year to year, evaluate changes in the population and better understand whether management efforts are hav-

ing an impact. Continuing a Long-Term Effort There is no single action that will resolve this issue immediately. Because authorized population-control activities take place on qualifying private property and participation is voluntary, changes will take time and will require continued cooperation among property owners, the City, USDA Wildlife Services and the Georgia DNR.

The annual population study will be particularly important in helping us measure that progress. Rather than relying solely on individual sightings or anecdotal information, we will continue collecting data that allows us to evaluate trends and make informed decisions from year to year. Our objective remains the same: reduce the negative impacts associated with an overabundant deer population

Peachtree Corners Recognizes Two Local Eagle Scouts for Leadership and Service

while supporting a healthier balance between wildlife, our natural environment and the community we share. The City will continue to fully assist our state and federal partners, keep residents informed as this work progresses and use the information gathered through our annual studies to guide our approach in the years ahead.

Official City Merchandise Online A portion of all merchandise sales directly benefits the City of Peachtree Corners. These funds will be used to support the continued expansion, upkeep, and enhancement of Town Green amenities and the city’s event programming. peachtreecornersmerch.com

The City of Peachtree Corners recently recognized two outstanding young women, Olivia Dover and Caroline Whitesides, for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor attainable in Scouting America. Both were formally recognized by Mayor Mike Mason and the City Council on July 28 for their leadership, academic achievements and commitment to serving their community.

Olivia’s accomplishments extend well beyond Scouting. A Norcross High School Honor Graduate and International Baccalaureate Diploma recipient, she participated in swimming, Color Guard, Winter Guard, tennis, golf and varsity cheerleading and performed for four years as a clarinet player in the school’s Wind Symphony. She will attend the University of Georgia this fall to pursue a degree in Biology.

Olivia Dover began her Scouting journey in 2019 as a founding member of Troop 651, when Scouting America first welcomed female Scouts into its programs. During her Scouting career, she earned 33 merit badges while developing leadership, outdoor and life skills.

Caroline Whitesides joined Troop 651 in 2021 as one of its early female members. She earned 26 merit badges while embracing leadership opportunities and demonstrating a strong commitment to service.

For her Eagle Scout service project, Olivia designed and led the construction of a stepping-stone pathway at the Spalding Corners Swim and Tennis Association. The project created a safer and more welcoming route for neighborhood and visiting swim teams during summer meets while also helping reduce erosion and improve the appearance and functionality of the facility.

For her Eagle Scout service project, Caroline planned and led the restoration of an overgrown kindergarten garden at Peachtree Elementary School. Working with volunteers, she helped clear and prepare the space, install landscape fabric and fresh pine straw, and construct a mulched walking path with edging to create a more defined and accessible garden area. Caroline is also an International Baccalaureate Diploma graduate of Nor-

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

cross High School and an AP Scholar with Distinction. She was a four-year member of the marching band, served on the Band Leadership Team and as Drum Line Section Leader, and performed for three years with the Wind Symphony. Her additional accomplishments include serving on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes student leadership board, being named a semifinalist for the Governor’s Honors Program and a finalist for the Gwinnett Student Leadership Team. Caroline’s leadership also carried into the workplace, where she was promoted to Shift Leader during her employment with Chick-fil-A and earned a Chick-fil-A merit scholarship. She also qualified for the Zell Miller Scholarship and will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology this fall to pursue a degree in Architecture. The City congratulates Olivia and Caroline on earning the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout and recognizes their dedication to leadership, service, academic excellence and making a positive difference in their community.

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

Local Students Explore Innovation and Career Opportunities in Peachtree Corners As students returned to school, a group of local youth had the opportunity to explore innovation, technology, and future career paths through two educational tours led by Peachtree Corners Councilman Phil Sadd. On Tuesday, July 28, students visited Guardian Sports, a Peachtree Corners-based company recognized for developing innovative athletic safety equipment. During the visit, students toured the facility, learned about the company’s mission and products, and gained valuable insight into the wide variety of careers that contribute to the organization’s success. From engineering and product development to manufacturing, marketing, sales, and operations, the tour highlighted the many professional opportunities available within a growing technology-driven business. Later that week, another group of students visited Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners, the city’s internationally recognized innovation center. Students explored emerging technologies that are transforming transportation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and smart city applications while learning how Peachtree Corners continues to serve as a hub for research, testing, and technology development. The visit concluded with a live drone demonstration presented by the Peachtree Corners Marshal’s Office,

showcasing how drones are being used to enhance public safety and municipal operations. Students had the opportunity to see the technology in action while learning about its practical applications and the careers that support these innovative programs.

These experiences provided students with a firsthand look at how classroom learning connects to real-world careers while highlighting the exciting businesses and technological advancements taking place right here in Peachtree Corners.

The City extends its appreciation to Councilman Phil Sadd, Guardian Sports, Curiosity Lab, and the Peachtree Corners Marshal’s Office for investing their time and expertise to inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and community leaders.

FY2027 Road Resurfacing Program Begins August 17 The City of Peachtree Corners will begin its Fiscal Year 2027 Road Resurfacing Program on Monday, August 17, as part of the City’s ongoing effort to maintain and extend the life of its roadway network.

Peachtree Corners’ streets.

City roads are selected for resurfacing based on pavement condition assessments conducted by a specialized consultant. These evaluations consider visible surface conditions, including cracking and rutting, as well as underlying pavement conditions that may not be immediately apparent.

The resurfacing contractor has requested that vehicles not be parked on streets while paving work is underway. When notification signs appear in your neighborhood, residents are asked to avoid on-street parking, so crews have clear access to complete the work safely and efficiently.

Using this data-driven approach allows the City to identify roads most in need of repair, prioritize available funding and make strategic investments that help maximize the lifespan of

The City appreciates residents’ patience and cooperation as these important roadway improvements are completed.

in neighborhoods scheduled for resurfacing should watch for advance notification signs, which will be placed approximately one to two days before paving begins.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Inside Peachtree Corners

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

What Happens When We Don’t Scoop Did you know that… • The Chattahoochee River supplies 70 percent of metro Atlanta’s drinking water. • In the Chattahoochee River Basin there are 277 rivers and streams not supporting their designated uses according to the EPD’s 2024 draft 305(b)/303(d) list. Three of these 277 impaired waters fall within the City of Peachtree Corners boundaries.

Here’s the Scoop…. Polluted stormwater is the primary cause of water quality problems in the Chattahoochee River Basin. Every time it rains, water runs off the land as stormwater picking up pollutants and debris - including pet waste. Pet waste left on sidewalks, streets, yards, or other open areas can be washed away and carried by rainwater into storm drains and drainage ditches which flow to nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. As it decays, it uses up dissolved oxy-

gen and releases compounds that are harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Pet waste also contains nutrients that can cause excessive algae growth in a pond or lake, upsetting the natural balance. Most importantly, pet waste contains harmful bacteria such as E. Coli and fecal coliform, some of which can cause disease in humans and make water dangerous for swimming and other recreation.

How can you help? You can help protect you and your neighbor’s valuable water source and restore the two impaired waters inside Peachtree Corners to support their designated use by the following: • Pick up pet waste in your yard or on a walk with a plastic bag or pooper scooper. • Dispose of the pet waste using one of the following methods: o Put pet waste in your regular garbage can or dumpster and ensure it

is in a securely tied or closed plastic bag. o Bury pet waste at least one foot deep and cover with soil in your yard or garden. Avoid burying in food-growing areas.

er, flush pet waste down the toilet, but don’t flush plastic bags or cat litter. Septic systems are not designed to accommodate the high pollutant load in pet waste and can cause premature failure.

o If your home is on a sanitary sew-

East Jones Bridge Road Intersection Improvement Project Update The City of Peachtree Corners would like to provide an update on the ongoing improvement project and the recent slowdown in visible construction activity on East Jones Bridge Road. Significant progress has already been made, including roadway widening, new curbing, and preparation for additional turn lanes. The project is currently awaiting required utility relocations and specialized traffic signal equipment before the next phase of roadway construction can begin. Georgia Power has started its utility relocation work. AT&T and Lumen must also relocate infrastructure, The project is also awaiting new traffic signal components, which require specialized design, approval, and extended delivery times. While there may be limited visible construction activity during this process, the City and project contractor

continue to coordinate with utility providers to move the project forward. The contractor has also been directed to maintain the construction area, including mowing, cleaning the site, and realigning traffic barrels as needed.

Inside Peachtree Corners ■ SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ peachtreecornersga.gov

As a reminder, the project is currently slated for completion in February 2027 and currently remains on schedule. We understand that the slowdown may be frustrating and appreciate the com-

munity’s patience. The City will continue to provide updates as utility work progresses and construction activity resumes.

cteed Get Cononnnect Upcoming Events

September 10 Thursday Thought Leaders Luncheon Speakers: Carolyn Bourdeaux and John Pendleton of The Concord Coalition FEDERAL DEBT, LOCAL IMPACT: WHAT’S AT STAKE FOR OUR ECONOMY Time: 11:30 AM–1:00 PM

September 3 Coffee Connection Spotlight

Norcross Police Department Time: 8:30 am – 9:30 am

October 8

See Our Website for Upcoming Coffee Connections Networking Events

Chairman’s Circle

Thursday Thought Leaders Luncheon Speaker: Lynne Segall Goizueta Business School Professor THE POWER OF QUESTIONS Time: 11:30 AM–1:00 PM

President’s Council

Executive Level

Inter eres estted in Member ersship? Visit Us Online for Updated Information on Events and Dates

SouthwestGwinnettChamber.com

@SouthwestGwinnettChamber @swgcga @southwest-gwinnett-chamber

Natalie Venetia Belcon, Photo by Bradley Credit

Oct 27 - Nov 1 • Fox Theatre BroadwayInAtlanta.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 ■ Peachtree Corners Magazine

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K E L L Y

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Thee Kelly Kim Real Estate LLC Th o. 678-815-2000 c. 678-464-4929 | Kelly@KellyKimRE.com

400 Buford Hwy | STE 1106 | Suwanee, GA 30024

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Peachtree Corners Magazine - September/October 2026