Peachtree Corners Life LIVE

Magistrate Court Judge Regina Matthews is a candidate for the upcoming June 18th runoff election for Superior Court Judge in Gwinnett County. Regina discusses improving court efficiency by setting deadlines, utilizing magistrates and senior judges, virtual hearings, digitizing processes, and maintaining accurate records. She also discusses challenges like housing insecurity's impact on crime, accountability courts, and public engagement. The Run-off is Tuesday, June 18th. Host Rico Figliolini. Resources:Regina’s Website: https://judgematthews.com/Timestamp:00:00:00 - Magistrate Judge Regina Matthews on Local Politics00:01:19 - Importance of Voting in Runoff Elections00:04:17 - The Varied Responsibilities of Superior Court Judges00:07:22 - Strategies for Reducing Court Backlogs00:11:29 - Adapting Court Proceedings to Virtual Platforms00:14:00 - Addressing Housing Insecurity to Reduce Recidivism00:17:17 - Housing Scarcity and Mental Health Challenges in the Court System00:20:19 - Navigating Limited Resources in the Justice System00:21:59 - Challenges in the Court System: Lack of Resources and Prioritizing Treatment 00:26:32 - Increasing Awareness of Available Services00:27:51 - Embracing Law Enforcement: Building Community Ties00:30:20 - Balancing AI Benefits and Risks in the Legal System00:33:33 - Continuing Accountability Courts and Upholding Judicial Integrity00:37:09 - Serving with Integrity as a Judge

The Tuesday, June 18th run-off election for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge is almost here. In my interview with candidate Tuwanda Rush Williams, you will find out why she is running, her plans for mental health issues in the inmate population, why transparency and responsibility are important to her, and how she will rebuild trust in the judicial system. Tuwanda discusses the role of technology in modernizing the court system, the need for more lawyers to provide indigent defense services, and the importance of judges being visible and engaging with the public to build trust in the courts' fairness and impartiality. With your host Rico Figliolini. Resources:Tuwanda’s Website: https://www.tuwanda4judge.com/Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Tuwanda Rush Williams Runs for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge00:01:15 - From New York to Georgia00:03:54 - Improving Mental Health Care in Jail00:07:50 - Addressing Mental Health in the Justice System00:11:21 - Improving Court System Efficiency, Addressing Indigent Defense, and Leveraging Technology00:15:53 - Balancing Technology in the Courtroom00:18:06 - Concerns About AI in the Courts: Lack of Empathy and Transparency00:22:15 - Ensuring Impartiality in Judicial Decisions00:25:38 - Canine Incident Leads to Lawsuit00:29:55 - Employing More Senior Judges to Clear Backlog00:32:13 - Qualifications Beyond Being a Judge00:35:29 - Tuwanda Rush Williams' Campaign Resources and Endorsements

Abney Harper, co-owner of the luxury New Orleans brand Sucré, shares her journey into the culinary world. Sucré recently opened its first location outside of New Orleans in Woodstock, Atlanta, marking an exciting expansion. Abney hopes to create a beautiful, magical experience showcasing handcrafted, complex pastries while ensuring quality and consistency. The Forum  Peachtree Corners will open this fall, 2024. This interview by Rico Figliolini Timestamp:00:00:00 - Abney Harper's Journey00:01:44 - Sucré: New Orleans-Style Luxury Pastry Shop00:03:37 - From Law to Pastry: A Serendipitous Journey00:06:16 - Expanding Sucré's Presence in Georgia00:08:09 - From Restaurants to Pastries00:12:47 - Navigating the Challenges of Scaling a Business Across States00:15:18 - Navigating Regulations and Expansion Plans00:17:22 - Expanding Sucré Brand Beyond New Orleans00:20:08 - Discovering A New Orleans Passion00:21:24 - Bringing the Essence of New Orleans to Atlanta

Steve Gasper is a candidate for the Gwinnett County School Board runoff election on June 18th. As a parent with children in the Gwinnett County public school system, Gasper wants to maintain high-quality education while addressing policy changes. Steve highlights the importance of transparency, the challenges posed by technology, and the need to support and listen to teachers to improve morale and keep experienced educators in the classroom. With your host Rico Figliolini

Shana V. White is in the run-off for the Gwinnett County School Board, District 3, with the crucial election date set for June 18th. In our podcast, she emphasizes the importance of voter turnout and shares her vision for enhancing transparency in the board's operations. We delve into topics such as school safety, the synergy between education and compassion, and the role of AI in the educational landscape. Don't miss this insightful discussion on why your vote matters. With your host Rico Figliolini Shana’s Website: https://www.shanavwhiteforgcps.comTimestamp: 00:00:00 - Shana White's Run for Gwinnett School Board00:01:39 - Teaching: A Family Legacy and Calling00:03:19 - From Doubts to Passion: Shana’s Journey as a Teacher00:04:29 - From Basketball Player to Coach00:05:54 - Strengthening Schools as Community Hubs 00:09:37 - Rethinking Discipline: Teaching Accountability and Respect00:13:23 - Importance of Consistency in School Behavior Expectations00:16:21 - Balancing Cell Phone Use in the Classroom00:20:50 - Transparency in District Leadership and Decision-Making00:24:16 - Improving Accountability, Morale, and Equity in Gwinnett County Schools00:27:57 - Bridging the Gap: Integrating Apprenticeships and AI in Education00:31:50 - Leveraging Tech Resources to Empower Youth Entrepreneurship00:36:30 - Importance of Critical Thinking in Early Education

Shameka Allen, CEO of Good Samaritan Gwinnett, works in nonprofit healthcare and brings a working mother's perspective to an organization serving over 52,000 people since 2005. Good Samaritan provides primary medical and dental care to over 300,000 uninsured patients in Gwinnett County, Georgia, with fee-based, discounted services funded through patient fees, donations, and grants. They face challenges such as language barriers and navigating the healthcare system for specialty care within their predominantly Hispanic patient population. Our podcast interview with your host, Rico Figliolini, covers this and more in our latest episode.Good Samaritan Website: https://goodsamgwinnett.org/Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Introducing Shameka Allen, CEO of Good Samaritan Gwinnett00:02:39 - Passion for Nonprofit Healthcare00:03:42 - Providing Dignified Healthcare to the Uninsured00:09:07 - Navigating Healthcare Challenges for Underserved Communities00:12:07 - Partnering for Community Health00:14:20 - Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Gwinnett County00:15:48 - Expanding Healthcare Services Through SPA Model00:18:36 - Launching a Healthcare Training Academy00:21:31 - Addressing Healthcare Workforce Shortages00:23:07 - Volunteers Becoming Medical Professionals00:24:50 - Expanding Access to Vocational Training00:27:29 - Serving Uninsured Patients Through Community Partnerships00:30:25 - The Value of Primary Care: Saving Money and Lives00:33:14 - Dignified Experience: Exploring Good Samaritan Gwinnett

Georgia State Representative Ruwa Romman shares insights into the legislative session, highlighting the dynamic of having a third of the House composed of new members. She addresses the complex issues of balancing public safety and civil liberties in immigration status checks, the political landscape challenges during an election year, and experiences of changing positions on bills after hearing new information. Plus, Romman shared her view on the war in Gaza. With your host Rico Figliolini.Resources: Ruwa’s Website: https://www.ruwa4georgia.com/Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Discussing Important Issues00:03:07 - First-Year Freshman Dynamics00:04:19 - Concerns over Misuse of Immigration Enforcement Legislation00:07:03 - Concerns Over Police Funding and Immigration Checks00:10:43 - Balancing Immigration Enforcement and Community Trust00:12:41 - Navigating Student Loan Forgiveness and Data Center Legislation00:15:18 - Changing Perspectives on Film Tax Credits00:16:59 - Balancing Film Industry Incentives and School Funding00:18:47 - Navigating Legislation: Freshman Lawmaker's Perspective00:25:04 - Improving Early Literacy through Education Reform00:26:43 - Balancing Work, Campaigns, and Local Elections00:32:21 - Unsolicited Home Selling Offers00:33:19 - Engaging the Community and Addressing International Challenges

This episode features special guest Shaun Adams, Peachtree Corners' new Community Development Director who continues as Assistant City Attorney. Shaun's responsibilities include identifying areas that could benefit from redevelopment, planning, administering, and implementing redevelopment projects, and helping to identify and obtain public funding for projects. Part of our discussions include the 6-month moratorium on new residential development in the central business district which reflects a reassessment of the city's needs. Included in the podcast discussion was a discussion on zoning and development, emerging market trends, navigating development pressures, and community and business roles. Hosted by Rico Figliolini.Redevelopment Authority of Peachtree Corners: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/21... Peachtree Corners City Meeting Calendar: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Ca...Timestamp:00:00:00 - Shaun Adams: New Community Development Director00:01:21 - Peachtree Corners Resident Balances Legal and Community Roles00:03:26 - Community Development: Zoning, Permitting, and Collaboration00:07:24 - Adapting City Codes to Changing Needs00:09:54 - Adapting Zoning to Emerging Market Trends00:12:37 - Navigating Zoning Overlays and Mixed-Use Developments00:15:07 - Examining Zoning and Development Trends00:20:01 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Cities and the Growth of Smaller Communities 00:21:30 - Navigating Development Pressures and Public Input00:25:28 - Leveraging Comprehensive Plans for Strategic Development00:29:43 - Exploring Proactive City Planning00:32:23 - Upcoming Agenda and Code Updates00:33:57 - Upcoming Planning Commission and City Council Meetings

“You have to have a force that people want to join, and that is incumbent upon the leader to create the environment where people love to work. Where they know that their boss has their back. They know that their boss is looking out for their career. They're invested in training, equipping them, and so on.”Baron Reinhold talks about his run to be the next Gwinnett County Sheriff. Reinhold, who has a 30-year military background, discusses his varied experiences in the Navy, including leadership roles in nuclear command and reconnaissance. He aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the sheriff's department through measures like budget audits and public forums. He stresses the importance of restoring public trust by addressing organizational issues promptly and effectively, including staffing shortages and jail safety concerns. Listen in with your host Rico FiglioliniTimestamp:00:00:00 - Baron Reinhold's Extensive Military and Community Service00:01:53 - From Naval Academy to Military Consulting: A Military Career Spanning Decades00:04:50 - Running for Gwinnett County Sheriff00:07:05 - Addressing Gwinnett County's Challenges00:10:14 - Lack of Transparency in Sheriff's Budget00:12:21 - Implementing Command Climate Surveys for Organizational Improvement00:14:14 - Navigating Jail Budget and Safety Challenges00:18:21 - Understaffed Jail Struggles with Inmate Safety00:21:56 - Importance of Effective Leadership in Law Enforcement00:24:13 - Addressing Staffing Challenges in Law Enforcement00:28:12 - The Sheriff's Role in Upholding Constitutional Rights00:31:20 - Balancing Constitutional Rights and Public Health00:34:40 - Abuse of Public Funds for Personal Branding00:36:28 - Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Law Enforcement00:38:54 - Experienced and Qualified Candidate for Gwinnett County Sheriff

Peachtree Corner resident and Cuban immigrant Yanin Cortes shares her journey from struggling with English in her first year in an American elementary school to running for the Gwinnett County School Board. Endorsed by local leaders, she highlights system strengths and challenges. Yanin is a talented singer, entrepreneur, and mother of three who stresses the importance of community support, clear policies, and continuous improvement to address new challenges. Listen in to hear more about this candidate and the upcoming election. Hosted by Rico Figliolini Resources: Yanin’s Campaign Website: https://yanin.org/Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Yanin Cortes Runs for Gwinnett County School Board00:01:41 - From Immigrant to Aspiring Musician00:03:55 - From Music to Family and Entrepreneurship00:05:48 - From Educator to Entrepreneur: A Diverse Journey00:08:09 - Pursuing a Passion for Education and Community00:10:12 - Celebrating Gwinnett County's Diverse School System00:14:36 - Navigating Discipline and Safety Challenges in Schools00:17:22 - The Role of the School Board: Oversight and Support00:20:10 - Balancing Community Input and Systemic Realities00:22:51 - Implementing Policies: Complexities and Challenges00:24:29 - Improving School Safety and Restoring Trust00:28:48 - Navigating Diversity in School Systems00:31:50 - The Joys of Family, Community, and Running a Restaurant00:35:17 - Advocating for Community and Children in School Board00:37:57 - Importance of Voting for School Board

Brooke Massey, Director of Leasing for North American Properties, handles four locations in metro Atlanta – including The Forum Peachtree Corners. She shares the behind-the-scenes stories of bringing new and exciting tenants to this retail destination. Learn about the community input that shaped the vision for The Forum, the diverse culinary offerings coming to the center, and the plans for creating a vibrant hub for community events and entertainment. She shares with host Rico Figliolini her insights into the curated retail mix and plans for future additions. Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Revitalizing Peachtree Corners: Brooke Massey's Insights 00:01:36 - Revitalizing the Community Through Tenant Curation 00:03:51 - Suburban Shift: Peachtree Corners' Evolving Demographic 00:06:25 - Nando's Expansion into North America 00:07:47 - Outdoor Dining and Food Hall Plans 00:09:26 - Communal Kitchens and Upcoming Developments at The Forum 00:10:51 - Utilizing LED Screens and Stages for Community Gatherings 00:13:08 - Premiere Pastries and Bakery Opening 00:14:30 - Curating the Retail Mix: Welcoming New Offerings 00:16:07 - Transforming Vacant Storefronts into Vibrant Spaces 00:17:50 - Exploring the Charm of Peachtree Corners

Listeners are taken on a journey into the colorful art world through the eyes of high school art teacher Meagan Brooker. With 17 years of experience at Wesleyan School in Peachtree Corners, Brooker shares her passion for creativity, sharing how art has become a form of therapy and a source of inspiration in her life. From discussing her artistic process and inspiration to highlighting the importance of art for mental well-being, Brooker's infectious enthusiasm for art will captivate and inspire listeners of all backgrounds. Brooker's art will be on display at the Wesleyan Artist Market 2024, April 26-27.Tune in to discover the transformative power of creativity and art in this enlightening and uplifting Peachtree Corners Life Podcast episode.

Join us as we dive into the creative worlds of Esther Cooper and Bree Hill, two young student artists showing at this year's Wesleyan Artist Market with their unique talents and passions. From Esther's tasty cake pops to Bree's emotionally charged artwork, we explore the stories behind their inspiration, dedication, and drive to showcase their creativity. Listen in as we discuss the power of self-expression and passion in the world of art and baking. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and creativity that will leave you eager to explore your own artistic talents and passions. Hosted by Rico FiglioliniTimestamp:00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:37 - Expanding Artistic Horizons at Wesleyan Market00:03:38 - Discovering Passion and Mediums in Art Creation00:05:13 - Expressing Emotions Through Art and Beyond00:10:53 - Preparing for the Artist Market at Wesleyan00:13:24 - Finding Inspiration Through Music and Fantasy Books00:16:01 - Dreams of Opening a Family-Friendly Bakery00:17:42 - Interviewing a Creative Baker and Graphic Designer00:19:43 - The Art of Evolving a Painting00:21:45 - Baking Creations for Holidays and Parties00:24:08 - Bree's Artistic Process and Finding Joy in Sculptures00:26:37 - Art Commissions and Wesleyan Artist Market Update:28:20 - Closing Thoughts

How does 5G technology and public safety work? Explore the creation of self-taxing Community Improvement Districts and how they help a city. Urban development, changing cityscapes, new zoning for medical cannabis, and smart city planning—all this and more in the latest episode of Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager Brian Johnson, and host Rico Figliolini.

In this episode, we delve into the challenges faced by Peachtree Corners in addressing the rising incidence of vandalism in its Town Center and how the city is working to enhance community safety. Join Rico and City Manager Brian Johnson, as they discuss the proactive measures being taken, such as the deployment of marshals, the implementation of advanced surveillance cameras with AI technology, and the focus on prevention and education. Discover how Peachtree Corners is using technology and community involvement to create a vibrant and secure environment for its residents and visitors. Don't miss this insightful conversation on enhancing community safety in Peachtree Corners.Plus, we discussed Peachtree Corners Town Center improvements (town green, dog park and fitness trail), Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners' Criterium Road Race coming in April, and the planned roundabout on the Trader Joe's side of the Forum.Timestamp: 00:00:00 - Intro00:04:09 - Addressing Vandalism and Crime with AI Surveillance00:07:57 - Protecting the Community: Addressing Minor Offenses and Ensuring Safety00:10:18 - The Use of Facial Recognition Technology in City Surveillance00:14:50 - Ensuring Child Safety at the Town Green Playground00:20:03 - Enhancing Safety with Surveillance Cameras and Technology00:24:40 - The Unbelievable Work of the Marshals00:27:36 - Exciting Updates and Events in Our Town00:30:40 - The Ultimate Fitness Event: Bike Races, Running Races and More00:35:29 - Improving Intersections for Safer Driving, East Jones Bridge and Peachtree Corner Circle00:38:21 - Developments & Traffic Safety Measures in Progress00:41:15 - Creating Affordable Housing Options in Peachtree Corners00:43:07 - Closing

On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Diane Fisher, a representative from the League of Women Voters Gwinnett chapter, delves into the world of voter registration and municipal elections in Georgia. With the implementation of automatic voter registration and the upcoming municipal elections in Peachtree Corners, Fisher sheds light on the importance of informed voting and active participation. From understanding address updates to exploring the power of thoughtful voting, listeners will gain valuable insights on enhancing voter engagement in their community. This podcast serves as a guide for residents to make their voices heard and shape the future of Peachtree Corners, Georgia.Diane’s Email:Fisher@lwvga.org League of Women VotersWebsite: https://www.lwv.org/local-leagues/lwv-gwinnett-countyFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lwvgwinnettcounty/ 0:00:00 - Introduction0:01:54 - Voter registration process and information for new residents in Georgia0:05:13 - Voter maintenance and the importance of updating voter registration0:08:34 - Absentee voting process and how to request an absentee ballot0:10:52 - Municipal elections in Peachtree Corners, Georgia0:17:18 - Being a prepared voter for the 2024 elections0:20:37 - The need to know who's on the ballot0:21:31 - Sharing personal experience about involvement in politics0:23:02 - Misleading information and the importance of understanding the ballot0:23:45 - Lesser-known positions on the ballot and the impact of voters' knowledge0:25:42 - Thoughtful voting and participation in local elections0:28:04 - Encouraging voters to engage with candidates and attend events0:29:39 - The process for third-party and write-in candidates in Georgia for the 2024 elections0:31:25 - Seeking additional information that Georgia voters should know0:33:28 - Advising voters to verify their voting location due to possible changes0:34:17 - Closing

Health insurance and open enrollment are demystified by industry experts Erica Dumpel and John Czajkowski. Listeners will gain valuable insights and advice on topics like Medicare enrollment, the impact of politics on health insurance, the rise of state-based exchanges, the financial benefits of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), considerations for different age groups, and employer-based insurance. This comprehensive discussion equips individuals with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of health insurance, ensuring they make informed decisions to protect their well-being. Resources:Website: CDAInc.netPhone Number: 770-449-7369Erica’s Email: Erica@cdainc.netJohn’s Email: John@cdainc.netTimestamp: 0:00:00 - Introduction0:01:18 - Erica's experience and background in the health insurance industry0:02:09 - John Czajkowski and his role in the family-owned insurance brokerage0:03:51 - Medicare and the open enrollment period0:06:57 - Seeking assistance for Medicare enrollment0:08:03 - Explanation of Medicare coverage in relation to employer-based insurance for individuals close to retirement0:08:47 - The complexities of health insurance and options for different age groups0:17:07 - Health insurance plans and considerations for families.0:21:30 - Discussion about HSA and its uses 0:26:02 - Self-employed individuals and their health insurance options.0:29:17 - Medicare and its impact on dependents.0:31:20 - Options for college students and their health insurance.0:32:07 - A strategic approach to health insurance.0:36:12 - Compliance for employers and the ICRA alternative.0:38:48 - Closing

Revealing the details of a recent armed robbery at a local jewelry store, City Manager Brian Johnson highlights the need for proactive measures to combat such crimes. In his interview with Rico Figliolini, Johnson delves into the technological advancements the city has implemented to enhance law enforcement capabilities, including the fūsus real-time intelligence ecosystem and the use of drones for surveillance. He also discusses non-lethal technologies and the city's exploration of artificial intelligence in law enforcement.Furthermore, he provides updates on infrastructure improvements and developments in the town center, showcasing Peachtree Corners' commitment to ensuring its residents' safety and quality of life. Don't miss this informative and vital episode of Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager as Peachtree Corners works towards a safer community.Timestamp: 0:00:00 - Introduction0:00:37 - Discussion about an armed robbery at the Forum at Carnegie Jewelers0:03:18 - The use of fūsus cameras in solving crimes0:10:29 - The growing use of technology, drones, and non-lethal tools in law enforcement0:13:38 - Mention of using AI to analyze social media for potential illegal activities0:17:35 - Introduction of the new Chief City Marshal starting on November 10:18:34 - Qualifications and background of the hired marshals0:21:40 - Swearing-in ceremony and future plans for the marshals0:22:19 - Ongoing projects in Peachtree Corners0:22:58 - Parking deck improvements and EV charging station reopening0:25:15 - Dog park and upcoming improvements in Town Green0:26:36 - Playground equipment updates and playground for younger children0:27:58 - Fitness trail changes and safety measures0:29:04 - Gateway signage project update0:32:37 - Forum updates and boulevard project progress

What is medical cannabis? What conditions and diseases qualify for it? What's the difference between CBD Oil and Low THC Oil? How can you get a medicinal cannabis card?On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Rico Figliolini sits down with Gary Long, CEO of Botanical Sciences. Together they discuss the intricacies of the regulated medical cannabis market in Georgia. This insightful conversation provides valuable insights into the importance of regulation, the challenges faced by the industry, and the distinction between CBD oil and low THC oil. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how regulation ensures patient safety and product quality, and Georgia's thoughtful approach to medical cannabis serves as a model for other states.Don't miss out on this informative and thought-provoking episode!Timestamp:[00:00:00] - Introduction and Podcast Sponsors[00:01:30] - Introduction of Gary Long and Botanical Sciences[00:03:14] - History and Regulations of Medicinal Marijuana in Georgia[00:06:42] - Discussion on Independent Pharmacies Dispensing Medicinal Cannabis[00:08:45] - Comparison Between CBD Oil and Low THC Oil[00:10:53] - Overview of Botanical Sciences Facility and Products[00:13:51] - Legality and Amount of Low THC Oil a Person Can Possess[00:15:59] - Various Forms of Low THC Oil and Their Usage[00:19:08] - Challenges in Georgia: Awareness, Access, and Federal Laws[00:22:57] - Marijuana Rescheduling and Safer Banking Act[00:26:15] - Getting a Medicinal Cannabis Card and Renewal[00:28:27] - Medical Insurance Coverage and Future Predictions**[00:34:46] - Conclusion

What's the function of a City Council Work Session that is open to the public? The upcoming meeting will see a discussion of proposed City Marshal regulations and policies and the presentation of the Pickleball Feasibility study. We also discussed with the city manager the construction of an innovative EV charging station and the ongoing city commitment to sustainability, public safety, and community well-being. Plus, the latest updates on infrastructure improvements, the ongoing programs to address stormwater issues and power outages, and housing initiatives.Timestamp: [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:02:15] - Explanation of Work Session and Its Purpose [00:04:18] - Parking Deck Design [00:09:18] - City Marshal Regulations and Policies [00:15:02] - Discussion on Pickleball Facility Feasibility Study [00:20:10] - Preparing for Hurricane Season and Power Outages [00:31:48] - Protecting Power Lines and Using Underground Lines [00:34:47] - Solis Development and Its Start Date [00:35:50] - Broadstone Development and Its Progress. [00:37:00] - Other Ongoing Construction Projects and Improvements. [00:39:48] - Trailheads and Affordable Housing [00:43:16] - Peachtree Corners Festival and the Electrify Expo [00:44:44] - Park Improvements and Housing Initiatives [00:46:15] - Closing