Peachtree Corners Life LIVE

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

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Rico Figliolini interviews Michael Corbin, the Republican candidate for Georgia State House District 97. With his background as a parent and husband to a Gwinnett County public school teacher, Corbin shares his deep commitment to school safety, advocating for immediate actions like enhanced security measures, mental health resources, and more school resource officers. They dive into topics such as using state-of-the-art technology to protect schools and fostering a safer learning environment without making schools feel like prisons. The conversation also spans broader issues, from the importance of teacher pay to ensuring fair and secure elections in Georgia. Corbin emphasizes his dedication to making housing more affordable for teachers and public servants while also supporting job creation in tech-focused communities like Peachtree Corners. Tune in to hear Corbin’s thoughtful perspectives on the future of Georgia's schools, housing, and government. Resources:Michael Corbin’s Campaign Website: https://www.corbinforga.com/Michael’s email: Michael.Corbin@corbinforga.com Timestamp:00:00:00 - Michael Corbin's Perspective00:04:11 - Securing Schools and Practical Measures to Protect Our Kids00:06:48 - Addressing Mental Health and Warning Signs in School Shootings00:09:51 - Leveraging Technology for Student Safety00:11:48 - Addressing Teacher Pay and Affordable Housing for Educators00:17:27 - Cost of Living Adjustments for Teachers00:21:29 - Leveraging State Support for Tech Hub Development00:26:30 - Identifying and Fostering Technical Aptitude in Students00:28:48 - Balancing Healthcare Access and Affordability00:31:36 - Healthcare Costs Crushing Middle-Class Americans00:33:30 - The Real Costs of Natural Disasters00:35:13 - Navigating Disaster Recovery for Businesses00:38:53 - Ensuring Secure and Accessible Elections in Georgia00:40:53 - Secure Elections and Voter ID in Georgia00:45:01 - Importance of Accessible Voter IDs00:49:02 - Voting for Candidates with Your Interests in Mind

Land use changes, business growth, and community engagement are shaping Peachtree Corners' future. From revitalizing office spaces to innovative mixed-use developments, the city is working to attract investments and meet the needs of its residents. Peachtree Corners Life's host Rico Figliolini is joined by Shaun Adams, Community Development Director, to discuss how the city adapts to new trends, assesses vacancy rates, and gathers public input to guide its growth. Learn about the city's plans, including a focus on office renovations and diverse housing options, and how the community can get involved in the upcoming public meeting on October 3rd.Resources:Peachtree Corners Website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Community Development: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/190/Community-DevelopmentOctober 3rd Community Engagement Meeting: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=210Timestamp:00:00:00 - Peachtree Corners Land Use Moratorium00:01:58 - Revitalizing the Central Business District00:04:53 - Public Engagement Meeting 00:07:06 - Insights from Asset Inventory and Changing Business Trends00:11:11 - Improving Office Amenities and Competitiveness in Tech Park00:14:03 - Reinvestment in Aging Office Buildings00:16:15 - Evolving Uses in Office and Mixed-Use Developments00:19:51 - Attracting Diverse Businesses00:24:00 - Exploring Mixed-Use and Diverse Housing Options00:27:39 - Mixed-Use Development00:29:42 - Efficient Residential Density Options00:33:17 - Trail Connection Around Technology Park Lake00:40:41 - Evolving City Management through Conferences and Collaboration00:43:00 - Accessing City Development Information

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Rico Figliolini interviews Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson. They discuss the transformation of 25 Tech Park into a 13-unit condo, a rezoning initiative addressing office space vacancies, and future developments like outdoor parks and trails. They also explore local zoning challenges, parking solutions at The Forum, and community concerns over Jones Bridge Park. Tune in for an insightful update on city planning, public safety, and the evolving landscape of Peachtree Corners.  Resources:Peachtree Corners Website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Current Land Use Cases: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/1406/Current-Land-Use-CasesTimestamp:00:00:00 - Introduction and 25 Tech Park Condo Conversion00:02:21 - Rezoning for Residential Conversion of Office Building00:07:14 - Comparing Home Sizes and Prices in Duluth Area00:09:48 - Efficient Redesign and Outdoor Space00:13:47 - Addressing Vacant Office Space and Zoning Changes00:18:04 - Land Use Planning Process Explained00:24:36 - Concerns Over Jones Bridge Park Safety and Access00:31:28 - Securing Community Access and Navigating Challenges00:34:53 - Evolving Plans for Parking and Retail Development Plans00:41:52 - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager, host Rico Figliolini discusses the ongoing trash problems at Jones Bridge Park in Gwinnett County with City Manager Brian Johnson. They explore the park's overcrowding, littering, and the challenges of managing such a popular amenity. The conversation also touches on recent city council decisions regarding new apartment developments, focusing on smart city features, development approvals, balancing office market and community needs, navigating mixed-use development challenges, and the complexities of property rights and community growth. Tune in to hear insights on balancing community needs, maintaining public spaces, and navigating the complexities of urban development. Timestamp:00:00:00 - Jones Bridge Park Vandalism Concerns00:01:40 - Challenges at Jones Bridge Park: Overcrowding, Lack of Oversight, and Resident Concerns00:08:55 - Addressing Trespassing and Security Concerns at a Local Park00:14:24 - Automated Gate Proposal for Park Closure00:16:54 - Proposal for Improving Park Management and Funding00:18:48 - Balancing Amenities and Maintenance Costs in Public Spaces00:23:32 - Maintaining Public Spaces and Addressing Transient Residents00:25:48 - Development Approvals: Recommendations and Council Decisions00:30:27 - Balancing Office Market and Community Needs00:34:38 - Navigating Mixed-Use Development Challenges00:37:56 - The Complexities of Development Approvals00:44:04 - Property Rights and Community Growth00:47:11 - Complexities of Urban Development00:51:34 - Addressing Affordable Housing Challenges in the Community

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