Peachtree Corners Life LIVE

This episode of the Peachtree Corners Life Podcast features Dr. Paul Cable, High School Principal at Greater Atlanta Christian School, and Stephen Carter, leader of the school’s Business Innovation Program. The conversation explores how education is evolving beyond traditional classroom models to better prepare students for an unpredictable future.Key Themes from the Conversation 1. Education as a CallingBoth guests describe education as more than a profession—it’s a form of ministry and service focused on shaping students as people, not simply transferring knowledge.2. Personalized Learning at GACRather than a rigid one-size-fits-all model, GAC emphasizes personalized experiences that help students pursue their individual passions and purpose. 3. Real-World Learning Through the Business Innovation ProgramA major example is the student-run Spartan Café, which operates as a real-world business laboratory where students handle:Customer serviceInventory and operationsProfit and loss statementsTeam collaboration and leadershipThis hands-on approach helps students understand why they are learning skills instead of questioning the relevance of classroom lessons. 4. Building “Agency” in StudentsThe program focuses on helping students develop agency, meaning they can:Set meaningful goalsGather resources to achieve themAsk for help when neededThis mindset prepares them for careers and challenges that don’t yet exist.5. Responsible Use of AI in EducationThe guests discuss how schools must avoid two extremes: banning AI entirely or allowing it to replace real learning.Instead, GAC teaches students to use AI as a tool while maintaining human connection, creativity, and ethical responsibility.6. Confidence Through ExperienceDr. Cable shares a story of a shy student who gained confidence working at the Spartan Café—illustrating how hands-on programs can transform students by helping them discover their abilities.

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini talks with two talented Wesleyan School students preparing for the upcoming Wesleyan Artist Market. Samantha Halpin, a ninth-grade photographer, and Sarah Virginia Copeland, a tenth-grade entrepreneur and baker, share how they discovered their creative passions and what they plan to bring to this year’s market. From photography inspired by family memories to a small baking business built on a treasured pound cake recipe, both students offer a glimpse into how young creators turn inspiration into something tangible.The conversation explores the creative process behind their work, the emotional side of sharing art with others, and what it’s like for young artists to sell their creations. Samantha talks about capturing meaningful moments through photography and the influence of her grandmother, while Sarah Virginia discusses turning family recipes into a growing small business. Together, they reflect on the excitement, challenges, and rewards of seeing others connect with something they’ve made.Key TakeawaysStudent artists play an important role in the Wesleyan Artist Market, showcasing both creative and entrepreneurial talent. Samantha Halpin’s passion for photography was inspired by her grandmother, who worked as a photographer capturing emotional moments. Her photography focuses on capturing feelings and experiences that viewers can connect with when they see the image. Sarah Virginia Copeland runs a small baking business, Sarah V’s Sweet Treats, centered around family pound cake recipes. Baking and photography represent different creative processes—one carefully planned, the other often spontaneous.Both students describe the unique feeling of sharing something personal with others, whether through a photo or a piece of cake.Family plays a major role in supporting their creative work—from inspiration to helping prepare for the market. The Wesleyan Artist Market gives young creators the chance to experience entrepreneurship, creativity, and community engagement.

Peachtree Corners continues to push forward on what “smart city” can really mean—and in this in-person episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Councilman Phil Sadd (Post 1, District 1) to unpack the biggest initiatives shaping the city right now. From public safety innovation to trails, traffic, redevelopment, and housing, Phil walks through what’s happening, why it matters, and what residents can expect next.Leading the conversation is a new Drone as First Responder pilot that can launch automatically from certain 911 priority calls—arriving on scene in seconds to provide real-time awareness, improve safety, and support de-escalation before officers arrive. The episode also covers major quality-of-life and economic development efforts including Crooked Creek Trail, workforce/affordable homeownership in Mechanicsville, updates on The Forum redevelopment, the new public innovation park Curiosity Corner, and upcoming mobility projects like the Peachtree Parkway lane conversion and the Winter’s Chapel corridor multi-use path open house.Key takeawaysDrone as First Responder (DFR) is launching as a pilot with Brinc (integrated with Motorola’s dispatch ecosystem), and Peachtree Corners is one of five partner cities—and the only one in Georgia.Crooked Creek Trail is a major long-term project (about 1.3 miles plus spurs) with heavy environmental and safety constraints due to waterway/EPA requirements; construction is still roughly two years out.Mechanicsville workforce homeownership plan uses ARPA funds for land acquisition (about five acres) and a public-private build model with price caps and anti-flip protections to keep homes affordable long-term.The Forum redevelopment is moving toward execution: Barnes & Noble relocation enables a 125-room boutique hotel on the corner; multifamily plans are updated to below 300 units, with parking decks designed to be visually screened by buildings; target start is early 2027 (funding-dependent).Curiosity Corner is a public innovation park in Technology Park with shaded seating + connectivity, plus testing for things like Pipedream underground delivery, drone delivery, and EV programs; projected completion this spring.Traffic improvement on Peachtree Parkway: converting an existing southbound turn lane into a third straight-through lane to reduce bottlenecks; funded via SPLOST with state permission.Winter’s Chapel multi-use path (Phase 2) open house: joint city involvement due to corridor “zigzag” boundaries; open house is Feb 12, 5–7.Public safety discussion focuses on improving the county partnership: Phil emphasizes better communication, better data/metrics, a potential satellite office in Peachtree Corners, and addressing staffing shortages rather than rushing toward a new department vote.

Peachtree Corners is changing fast—and a lot of the biggest conversations residents are having right now come down to the basics: traffic, infrastructure, and safety. In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Councilman Eric Christ—fresh off another term—to break down what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what it means for day-to-day life in the city.From the new “jug handle” traffic pattern at Holcomb Bridge Road and Spalding Drive to major planning around bridge replacement on East Jones Bridge, Eric pulls back the curtain on how decisions get made across city, county, and state responsibilities. The conversation expands into what’s next for Technology Parkway, redevelopment at The Forum, the city’s deer population report, and how Peachtree Corners is thinking about practical public safety improvements without turning it into a political shouting match.Resources:City of Peachtree Corners website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.govEric Christ contact page: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/directory.aspx?EID=32Eric Christ campaign site: https://www.votechrist.orgKey takeawaysHolcomb Bridge/Spalding changes are GDOT-driven (State Route 140) and designed to improve north-south throughput; left turns from Spalding are rerouted via Weatherburn Way and River Exchange.Expect a learning curve: signage improvements + GPS/map updates should reduce “habit” left turns over time.East Jones Bridge vehicle bridge replacement (early 2026 target): a 9–12 month project with an expected full road closure for ~4 months during the bridge swap, creating major detours.Pedestrian infrastructure gets folded in: the plan includes sidewalks on both sides; a newer pedestrian bridge may be relocated into the trail system; the new bridge is expected to sit higher for flood standards.Technology Parkway AV lanes are likely being rethought for a real-world test environment: AVs are faster now, and companies prefer mixed traffic; plan includes restriping, removing the “armadillos,” and adding shared-lane bike markings + a small trailhead parking area.The Forum redevelopment is a multi-year, phased evolution: Barnes & Noble moving (into the former Old Navy space), a parking deck shifting toward the Peachtree Parkway side, and residential/hotel components discussed as later phases (more like 2027–2028 timing).Deer population is a real scale issue: estimate shared in the conversation is 2,700+ deer (~193 per square mile vs ~25 in a natural setting); next step involves USDA Wildlife Services planning.Public safety discussion is framed as “service levels”: exploring options like a precinct presence, staffing visibility, and contract improvements—while acknowledging the long-term county policing framework.Timestamp:00:00 – Welcome and introduction of Eric Christ02:00 – Holcomb Bridge Road traffic changes explained12:00 – East Jones Bridge replacement plans23:00 – Autonomous vehicle lanes and Curiosity Lab updates34:00 – The Forum redevelopment and future timeline44:00 – Deer population study and wildlife management49:00 – Public safety, policing, and community concerns01:12:00 – Final thoughts and how to contact Eric Christ

Should Peachtree Corners Form Its Own Police Department? Join host Rico Figliolini and City Manager Brian Johnson as they discuss the community’s big debate: whether Peachtree Corners should establish its own police force. From budget breakdowns and crime data to resident concerns and next steps, this is a conversation every local should hear.  Watch, comment, and share your thoughts. This live simulcast stream was previously recorded.Five Podcast Takeaways (Revised)Local control & service levels: Brian explains that a city-run department could keep officers dedicated inside Peachtree Corners—improving presence, familiarity, and response times—because they wouldn’t be pulled to countywide calls.Budget reality, not a shock: Peachtree Corners currently generates about $11M toward policing via the county; a right-sized city department is estimated at ~$12.2M, leaving roughly a $1.2M gap that could mean about $70/year for a median ~$400k home—if the city covered it purely via millage (other offsets could reduce that).Specialized units won’t vanish: Critical teams like SWAT/bomb disposal would still respond through interagency frameworks; other needs (e.g., ballistics) could be handled via GBI or paid partnerships. The emphasis is on matching resources to how often the city actually needs them.Modern policing toolbox: The conversation highlights tech-forward tactics—crime center in the cloud, LPRs/cameras, and drones—as force multipliers to investigate efficiently, deter repeat offenders, and avoid risky pursuits.People strategy matters: A smaller agency (projected ~52 officers vs. Gwinnett’s ~936 authorized) can compete for talent with targeted incentives—take-home vehicles, advanced training, slightly higher pay, and even housing set-asides marketed to first responders. Next steps include a professionally administered survey and neighborhood-level meetings; only if warranted would the topic be brought before city council for consideration.Timestamp:(00:00:00) Introductions and context on the recent public meeting.(00:01:18) Community reaction and the range of opinions voiced.(00:09:35) Understanding the millage rate and how city funding would work.(00:15:15) Recent crime incidents and concerns about safety.(00:17:56) Community feedback and key takeaways from the meeting.(00:21:32) Access to specialized units like SWAT and how those services would continue.(00:24:33) Population growth and hiring strategies for a city police force.(00:28:12) Technology and modern policing tools proposed for the city.(00:32:10) Next steps: professional survey, targeted community meetings, and timeline for decision-making.(00:37:54) Final thoughts and upcoming election context.

City Manager Brian Johnson joins host Rico Figliolini on Peachtree Corners Life for a practical update on projects shaping the city’s next few years. He walks through the newly developed Simpsonwood Park master plan—designed to keep the park passive and natural while adding ADA-friendly access, renovated bathrooms, an updated chapel, selective forestry management, and a modest river overlook. Johnson also explains why the city is outsourcing maintenance of the Peachtree Parkway median so residents finally see consistent, five-day-a-week care despite legacy design constraints.The episode dives into traffic and road fixes at East Jones Bridge and 141 (longer turn lanes, better alignment, and a right-turn slip lane), the ESPLOST renewal on the ballot, and the last phase of the Waterside development—now tracking at roughly half the density initially allowed and focused on equity (for-sale) housing. With candid context on what’s been approved or denied since cityhood, plus how extended-stay conversions and the Housing Authority factor in, this conversation is a clear, chart-backed look at how Peachtree Corners balances growth with character.Key takeawaysSimpsonwood Park will remain a passive park—no ballfields, pickleball, mountain biking, or major programming.Plan includes ADA-accessible paved paths, renovated bathrooms (including one closer to the river), resurfaced parking, and a chapel renovation.Selective forestry and wildlife/erosion work will improve long-term health of the park.City is outsourcing median maintenance on Peachtree Parkway; crews will be dedicated five days a week for mowing, edging, litter removal, and plant adjustments.Median design differs from Johns Creek (at-grade vs. raised), which has made upkeep harder; outsourcing addresses consistency and appearance.East Jones Bridge & 141: entrance realignment, longer left-turn stacking, and a right-turn slip lane to move traffic more safely and quickly.No municipal election this cycle for three council seats (no challengers qualified), but ESPLOST renewal is on the county ballot.Waterside final phase moves forward with for-sale (equity) units; overall buildout drops from up to 916 approved units to ~450.Post-2012 housing approvals show a measured approach—some apartment proposals approved, many reduced to townhomes or denied.Extended-stay hotel issues are being addressed, including a supervised conversion to efficiency units via the Housing Authority.Timestamp:(00:03:29) Simpsonwood Park master plan details and community input.(00:09:55) Renovation of chapel, bathrooms, and forestry management plans.(00:15:27) Outsourcing median maintenance on Peachtree Parkway.(00:24:27) Election update and ESPLOST renewal.(00:27:03) Waterside development’s final phase and reduced density.(00:30:12) East Jones Bridge road improvements and traffic flow changes.(00:36:37) Housing trends, multifamily approvals, and denials over time.(00:42:41) Extended stay hotel conversions and housing authority oversight.(00:45:47) Balancing growth, community resistance, and long-term city planning.

Host Rico Figliolini sits down with David Codrea, co-founder of Greenleaf Capital Partners and The Ride Lounge, for a lively conversation about turning challenging properties into community assets—and turning a lifelong love of adventure into a family-friendly car club in Peachtree Corners. David traces his path from swinging hammers on 1800s rentals to leading large-scale acquisitions across the Southeast.They dig into creative reuse—think vacant call centers reborn as pickleball hubs or spotless facilities for premium dog treats—as well as the patient, conservative financing that keeps projects resilient. David also shares the story and spirit behind The Ride Lounge: a social, story-driven car community where members actually drive their cars, bring the family, and connect.Key takeawaysHow David evolved from hands-on landlord to co-leading diversified real estate investments across eight states.Why adaptability beats nostalgia: repurposing underused spaces (from call centers to pickleball courts).A conservative playbook: fixed-rate debt, amortizing loans, and cash-flow discipline.Creative tenants matter: examples like Farm Hounds turning a tired building into a food-grade facility.Adventure as leadership lab: hiking 50 state high points with his daughter and embracing calculated risk.The Ride Lounge origin story: a welcoming car club focused on people, stories, and road time—not velvet ropes.Community heartbeat: family-friendly events, open Friday hangouts, and space for meetings and small gatherings.Expansion plans: scouting new Ride Lounge locations around Atlanta and beyond—and inviting bold ideas.Resources: The Ride Lounge (ride-lounge.com)Greenleaf Capital Partners (greenleafcp.com)Timestamp:(00:02:35) David’s early beginnings in real estate and move to Atlanta.(00:06:42) Buying properties after the 2008 crash and the importance of flexibility.(00:08:57) Adapting commercial spaces to new trends like pickleball.(00:12:49) Cash flow philosophy and conservative financing.(00:14:10) Advice for young entrepreneurs entering real estate.(00:15:01) Adventures, risk-taking, and leadership lessons.(00:17:11) Hiking the highest points in all 50 states with his daughter.(00:23:53) Creating the Ride Lounge—vision, purpose, and community.(00:28:21) The Ride Lounge as a social space with events and family-friendly gatherings.(00:32:18) Expanding the Ride Lounge concept to more locations.(00:33:56) Community outreach and events like Pedal Fest.

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini spotlights three remarkable student artists featured in this year’s Wesleyan Artist Market. Eighth graders Kimberly Wang and Nika Jensen, along with sixth grader Carter Jensen, share their creative journeys—ranging from edible art like fruit jellies and peppermint bark to handmade jewelry and custom-designed bags.Kimberly talks about her love for food art and balancing sweetness with fruity freshness, while Nika and Carter discuss building a jewelry business that also gives back—donating proceeds to families in the Philippines. This isn’t just an artist market; it’s a showcase of purpose-driven, globally inspired young talent. The event runs April 25–26 at Wesleyan School and is open to the public.✅ Podcast Takeaways:Kimberly Wang creates handmade edible treats, balancing flavor and freshness for the show.Nika and Carter Jensen co-run a jewelry and fashion accessory business, inspired by global travel and cultural experiences.Nika donates part of her proceeds to support families in the Philippines.All three students are deeply involved in extracurriculars—from musicals and marching band to math club and academic bowl.The Wesleyan Artist Market features 24 student artists and over 70 professionals—open to the public April 25–26.

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Manager Brian Johnson for a high-energy, no-holds-barred conversation on the city's future. With big moves happening across Tech Park, Peachtree Corners Circle, and the Forum area, this discussion dives into the city’s strategy for smart growth, safety, and innovation.Brian shares updates on proposed roundabouts, equity-driven housing developments, the transformation of aging office space, and how the city is positioning itself as a hub for autonomous vehicles and drone delivery.From bold rezoning efforts to a proactive stance on data center development, this is a must-listen for residents, businesses, and anyone interested in the smart evolution of one of Metro Atlanta's most innovative cities.🔍 Key TakeawaysNew Roundabout proposed at Peachtree Corners Circle near the Forum to address traffic safety.Multiple equity-based residential projects replacing outdated office spaces, including at 20-22 Tech Park, the Day Building, and 333 Research Court.Curiosity Corner Mobility Hub coming to Tech Park, featuring EV stations, food trucks, and drone test areas.Autonomous vehicles like May Mobility already operating with zero drivers on Peachtree Corners streets.City's proactive zoning changes include special-use permits for data centers and new infill residential zoning.Merger of Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals to streamline decisions and reduce redundancy.

In this episode of UrbanEBB, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Kyle Grob, CEO and founder of Peachtree Corners-based KGM Technologies, a precision manufacturing company specializing in firearm suppressors and expanding into medical device production. Kyle shares insights on growing a business during COVID-19, navigating ATF regulations, and how Georgia fosters innovation in manufacturing. Just a few key takeaways:Why are suppressors crucial for hearing safety and law enforcement?KGM’s role in producing stroke rehabilitation devices and scaling medical manufacturing.The challenges of hiring skilled workers in modern manufacturing.Why trade schools and vocational training are more important than ever.

On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Gwinnett County Solicitor General Lisamarie Bristol about her work addressing the county’s growing case volume and implementing new justice initiatives.  Key Takeaways & Highlights:Understanding the Solicitor General’s Role – How the office prosecutes misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and quality-of-life cases.4,000-Case Backlog Solution – Strategies to streamline processes and improve case resolution speed.New Legal Resource Website – How Gwinnett residents can access critical legal information and victim advocacy services.Diversion Program Success – Over 1,400 successful cases, providing alternatives to prosecution and preventing repeat offenses.Special Victims Unit – Dedicated to handling sensitive cases like misdemeanor sex crimes and vehicular homicides.Teen Dating Violence & Social Media Risks – How technology is impacting legal cases involving young people.Expanding Access to Legal Support – Partnerships with Mosaic Georgia, PADV, and HIMSA House to assist victims and underserved communities.Justice System Challenges – Addressing mental health, substance abuse, and legislative changes affecting prosecution.Listen in for an insightful conversation on justice, reform, and the future of law enforcement in Gwinnett County!

On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with Dr. Aristo Shyn, owner of Link Dental Care, to discuss his journey from corporate dentistry to running a thriving private practice.  Key Takeaways & Highlights:From Corporate to Private Practice – Why Dr. Shyn left corporate dentistry to build his own patient-focused practice.The Power of Technology in Dentistry – How 3D imaging, digital scans, and upcoming Botox treatments improve patient care.Growing a Business – The challenges of launching and expanding a dental office without prior business experience.Community Involvement – Supporting local schools, charities, and offering free dental makeovers.Balancing Work & Family – Juggling a growing business while raising two kids.Listen in to learn how Dr. Shyn built a thriving dental practice while prioritizing technology, patient experience, and community engagement!

Discover how Alex Wright, a former U.S. Naval officer, founding member of the City of Peachtree Corners, and corporate finance veteran, made the bold decision to "burn the ships" and launch his own fractional CFO firm. Hosted by Rico FiglioliniKey Takeaways:Burn the Ships Mentality – Why Alex embraced total commitment when leaving corporate America to start his own business.Solving Business Challenges – How a fractional CFO helps entrepreneurs manage cash flow, optimize processes, and grow sustainably.Financial Storytelling – The power of translating financial data into actionable insights for business owners.City Leadership & Business Strategy – Lessons learned from helping launch Peachtree Corners as a smart city and how that applies to business growth.The Role of Technology in Finance – How tools like QuickBooks and Power BI can improve financial planning—if used correctly.Long-Term Business Planning – Why forecasting, budgeting, and understanding financial trends are crucial for sustained success.

Join Rico Figliolini as he sits down with Peachtree Corners City Councilmember Eric Christ for a deep dive into the latest city developments, from parks to elections and housing.🔹 Simpsonwood Park – What’s next for the 227-acre green space? Eric shares updates on possible improvements, conservation efforts, and the latest community input.🔹 Jones Bridge Park Concerns – How the city and county are addressing parking, litter, and after-hours issues.🔹 Housing & Development – The Gwinnett Housing Authority’s new apartment conversion project and its impact on the area.🔹 Upcoming City Elections – Why voting might finally get easier and how local races could shape Peachtree Corners’ future.Tune in for insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of Peachtree Corners! 

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Manager Brian Johnson to discuss pressing local issues, including deer overpopulation and potential culling efforts, a school digital signage request, and Simpsonwood park. They also dive into the latest legislation affecting impact of tort reform on city liability, annexation, and drone regulations. Plus, hear how the city’s marshals uncovered an illegal nightclub operating under the radar. Stay informed on the latest developments shaping Peachtree Corners. Listen now!Timestamped Topics:00:04:09 – Deer Overpopulation and Potential Culling Efforts00:14:41 – Digital Signage Regulations for Community Schools00:20:00 – Navigating Lawsuits and Tort Reform00:30:50 – Parking Lot Slope Adjustments and Liability Concerns00:32:31 – Navigating Legislation Impacts on Construction and Annexation00:38:33 – Regulating Drones in Public Spaces00:44:24 – Uncovering an Illegal Nightclub Operation00:51:37 – Discussing City Matters Behind the Scenes

Andrew and Daniel Hajduk, father and son of VOX POP ULI, discuss their family business specializing in custom printing, embroidery, and laser engraving with host Rico Figliolini. The Hajduks share their journey through the evolution of printing technology and their approach to creating impactful branding for businesses. Discover how this family-owned business adapts and thrives in a rapidly changing industry. Don’t miss their insights into the power of branding and the joy of bringing client visions to life. Join us to learn how a commitment to quality and community shapes the future of a business.Resources:Vox Pop Uli Website: https://vox-pop-uli.com/Facebook:   / voxpopuli.inc  LinkedIn:   / vox-pop-uli   Instagram:   / vox_pop_uli  Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Vox-Pop-Uli: Adapting to Changing Technology00:03:52 - Customizing Solutions for Clients00:06:05 - Branding Importance for Clients00:08:56 - Providing Seamless Solutions for Businesses00:11:38 - Delivering Quality and Value in Business Relationships00:14:37 - Diversifying Marketing Strategies for Business Growth00:18:11 - Commitment and Adaptation in Challenging Times00:22:00 - Hiring for Attitude and Growth Mindset00:23:59 - Fostering a Growth-Oriented Workplace Culture00:26:49 - Navigating Deadlines and Expectations in the Promotional Products Industry 00:28:45 - The Evolving Landscape of Business and Community Growth00:30:55 - The Rise of Retail Density in Peachtree Corners00:33:45 - Navigating Family Dynamics in the Workplace

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini covers a range of topics for the new year with City Manager Brian Johnson. They address misinformation circulating on the Nextdoor app, discuss updates and future plans for Simpsonwood Park, and provide details on upcoming city infrastructure improvements, including gateway signage and parks.Additionally, the episode announces new features in Peachtree Corners, such as a trail hub, an electric vehicle mobility hub, concert additions, and potential park development.Timestamp00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings00:35 Sponsor Acknowledgements01:48 Addressing Inaccuracies about The Forum Parking12:57 Simpsonwood Park Master Plan Update27:51 City Gateway Signage and Trail Hub Plans36:11 Upcoming Events and Community Activities

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini discusses the recently concluded moratorium on residential mixed-use development in Peachtree Corners’ Central Business District with Shaun Adams, the city’s Community Development Director. They explore the creation of a small area plan, which subdivides the district into seven distinct zones, enabling tailored development strategies for each. Shaun highlights the goals of this plan: better aligning future projects with the city’s vision, enhancing placemaking, and ensuring balanced growth. They also discuss updates to the city’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan, public engagement efforts, and upcoming steps, including the December 17th City Council vote. Listen to learn how Peachtree Corners is shaping its future while preserving its unique community character.Resources:Peachtree Corners Website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Community Development: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/190/Community-DevelopmentUpcoming City Council Meeting: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1198&month=12&year=2024&day=25&calType=0Timestamp:00:00:00 - Residential Mixed-Use Moratorium and Central Business District Revamp00:04:40 - Comprehensive Plan Guiding City's 10-20 Year Vision00:06:50 - Distinguishing Institutional and Commercial Areas in the Central Business District00:10:17 - Differentiating Commercial and Residential Zones in City Planning00:15:56 - Planned Roundabout and Redevelopment Opportunities00:17:40 - Balancing Town Center Development and Traffic Concerns00:20:30 - Flexible Zoning for Diverse Housing Options00:25:06 - Suburban Condo Financing Challenges00:27:22 - Suburban Density and Apartment Conversions00:28:49 - Targeted Infill Development to Support Existing Office00:35:42 - Envisioning Flex Office Redevelopment in Chamblee00:38:37 - Envisioning a Balanced Suburban Density00:40:50 - Zoning Changes Headed to City Council

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Rico Figliolini sits down with debut author Jill Tew to discuss her gripping sci-fi novel The Dividing Sky. Jill shares her fascinating journey from a corporate career to becoming a published author, revealing how her love for science fiction and storytelling shaped her path. Dive into the themes of worldbuilding, dystopian futures, and emotional experiences that form the core of her book. Jill also opens up about the evolving publishing landscape, offering insight into how authors today must stay agile and seize new opportunities. Plus, hear Jill’s thoughts on balancing writing with parenting and her excitement for her upcoming middle-grade novel with Disney. This episode is perfect for fans of sci-fi, aspiring writers, and anyone curious about the creative process behind a debut novel. Tune in to discover more about The Dividing Sky and Jill Tew’s captivating writing journey!Resources: The Dividing Sky on Penguin Random House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/736783/the-dividing-sky-by-jill-tew/ https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/764010/freedom-fire-kaya-morgans-crowning-achievement-by-jill-tew/Jill Tew’s Website: https://www.jilltew.com/booksTimestamp:00:00:00 - From Corporate to Creative and Spreadsheets to Sci-Fi00:08:12 - Exploring the Dividing Sky, A Dystopian Tale00:13:17 - Worldbuilding Responsibility for Sci-Fi Authors00:17:49 - Exploring Mixed Media Formats for Storytelling00:20:43 - The Evolving Publishing Landscape00:26:22 - Balancing Writing and Parenting00:28:00 - Writing Tricks and Techniques00:30:02 - A Young Black Girl's Renaissance Faire Journey00:32:11 - Writing for Young Readers00:33:06 - Capturing Friendship, Uncertainty, and the Power of Perspective00:35:40 - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Georgia State Representative Ruwa Romman returns to discuss her re-election campaign for House District 97, covering Peachtree Corners, Norcross, Berkeley Lake, and Duluth. Join host Rico Figliolini as they dive into pressing issues, including Gwinnett County’s rapidly growing population, the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, and the impact of the upcoming transit referendum. Ruwa also shares her insights on housing affordability, the role of public transportation, and how small changes in tax law could affect both local businesses and homeowners. She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, recounting how a local election was decided by just four votes. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the future of Gwinnett and the power of your vote.Timestamp:00:00:00 - Candidate Ruwa Romman Discusses Georgia State House District 97 Re-election00:01:31 - Concerns over Statewide Homestead Tax Exemption00:07:16 - Keeping Tax Cases Local and Efficient00:09:49 - Vague Tax Exemption Amendment00:12:18 - Tax Loopholes and Small Business Impact00:14:50 - Gwinnett County Transit Referendum00:23:46 - Convenient Airport Transportation Options00:25:54 - The Need for Public Transportation and Infrastructure Improvements00:28:00 - Addressing the Housing Crisis00:31:40 - Challenges of Profit-Driven Development00:34:03 - Home Buying and Energy Costs00:36:41 - Negotiating Monopoly Power on the Grid00:39:47 - Importance of Civic Engagement and Voting00:41:25 - Voting Tips: Early, In-Person, and Ballot Drop-Off Options00:43:38 - Importance of Voting In-Person and Ballot Drop-Off00:46:09 - Navigating Voter Registration and Provisional Ballots00:49:05 - Advocating for Public Service and Effective Governance