Community

The Peachtree Corners Festival 2022

Published

2 years ago

June 21, 2022

Ivy Marie Clarke

Returns Triumphantly for Its 11th Year, the Second year at Town Center

July 1-3 is gearing up to be an exciting weekend for Peachtree Corners. Not only is it the lead up to Independence Day, but it’s also the 10th anniversary of Peachtree Corner’s founding. Why not celebrate it all at the 11th annual Peachtree Corners Festival? Enjoy food, entertainment, music and art with your family and friends — not to mention, the festival (and parking) is free and open to the public.

The Peachtree Corners Festival has been a staple of Peachtree Corners since before the city was even officially, well, a city. The festival is a nonprofit “dedicated to bringing a safe, wholesome and family-friendly festival to the City of Peachtree Corners,” according to peachtreecornersfestival.com. It’s volunteer-run, so its success is due to the passionate citizens who are driven by pride for their homes as well as its sponsors. Funds earned by the festival are directed towards beautification and education projects in Peachtree Corners.

Dave Huffman has been involved with the festival for 10 years and served as its president for nine. He said that it can be stressful at times to handle the hundreds of details that go into planning a festival, but the volunteers make it manageable, and the sponsors’ funding makes it all come to fruition.

“As our city has grown, the festival has kept pace with that growth,” Huffman said. “That makes the work a bit more every year, but when we see the smiles of our attendees and hear good things from our vendors and sponsors, it makes it all worthwhile and we start to think about how we can make the next year even better!”

As the saying goes, it truly takes a village. Huffman cited several members of the Peachtree Corners Festival team who make the dream come true, including Arts Director Ayanna Graham, Music Director Becky Lyon and the First Lady of Peachtree Corners, Debbie Mason, as vice president.

“Debbie was one of the founders of the festival and spearheads our work with the many sponsors we depend on,” Huffman said. “She is wonderful!”

This year, the festival will return to the Town Green located in the Town Center development, which has become the entertainment hub of the city. Due to the tight fit and muddiness that the festival experienced last year, though, it will also be returning to its roots in a sense: while the Town Green will still host music and kids’ activities, a section of Peachtree Corners Circle will be blocked off to make room for the booths, food court and classic car show.

Saturday’s Classic Car Show and Sunday’s Georgia Concours d’Elegance will be located in the Hexagon building parking lot next to the food court.

The weekend-long event will kick off with a concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 1, followed by a festival on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Read on for more information about what to expect from this year’s Peachtree Corners Festival.

Music

The Saturday and Sunday entertainment lineup will be one of the highlights of the festival, according to Huffman. Lyon has carefully evaluated and selected entertainers from a myriad of submissions. Festival attendees are encouraged to bring picnic baskets and coolers full of food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the performances.

The Friday night headliner has been announced as the iconic R&B group of the 50s and 60s, The Drifters. Best known for their classics “Under the Boardwalk,” “Save the Last Dance for Me” and “This Magic Moment,” among numerous other hits, The Drifters will have you swaying and celebrating on the Town Green.

Saturday’s musical lineup starts with Leah Bell Fraser, 12-1 p.m., a singer who delivers compelling original songs as well as those from some of her favorite artists, including Patsy Cline, Linda Ronstadt and Janis Joplin. A rock band from Virginia, Bulletproof, takes the stage 1:15-2:15 p.m.

They’re followed by Sonic Alley, a rock and roll cover band that features classic tracks and deep cuts performed by veteran musicians from the Atlanta area, 2:30-3:30 p.m. From 3:45-4:45 p.m., the New Bridge Band will rock the house with their unique mix of familiar and eclectic songs from across the musical spectrum.

On Sunday, 12-1 p.m., Catherine Wynder performs performing Lindsey Stirling covers, pop songs and movie soundtracks. The Hearsay will continue the celebration, 1:15-2:15 p.m., with their combination of rock and pop that has hints of 90s alternative, pop-pun, and modern indie music.

More musical acts will be finalized soon, so please check peachtreecornersfestival.com for the latest updates.

Cars, Bikes, Hot Rides

The Classic Car & Bike Show (“classic” for both the types of cars it represents and its traditional presence at the Peachtree Corners Festival) will take place on Saturday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s free for spectators; if you decide to register your car or bike on-site, you’ll only pay $15. The awesome vehicles will be lined up at the ready for you to photograph and admire. Meanwhile, trained judges will assess which rides are worthy of the coveted Top Car & Bike Awards and Top Class trophies. Enjoy food, a DJ and fantastic door prizes.

Georgia’s Concours d’Elegance will exhibit on Sunday, July 3, from 12 noon to 4 p.m., and admission is also free. Here, you’ll be witness to a lot of rare, collectible and vintage cars. The special “Sneak Peak” will show what’s coming in 2023 to Atlanta.

A classic car is more than merely a car. It’s an aesthetic, an artwork, a relic of history, a feat of technology. Concours d’Elegance brings that glorious showmanship and craftsmanship directly to you — and for free at the Peachtree Corners Festival. Support Peachtree Corners’ Concours with your attendance this year so that even more beautiful motor vehicles can be brought in next year and continue to unite our community in the pursuit of beauty.

Arts, Crafts and More

Local artisans and business owners will represent their wares at the festival. They’ll be selling everything from home goods to jewelry to crafts, so be a good neighbor and shop ‘til you drop!

Built by Bees: Tim Haratine started his honey business in 2015 with two goals: to make customers and employees happy, and to do so by promising good products and great value. All of Built by Bees’ many delicious products use raw honey and earn repeat customers. Visit builtbybees.com.

Chili P. Designs: Owner Julia channels her artistic skill and love for her family into creating beautiful wood signs perfect for home decor. Gift a design to a family member or display it in your own home for guests to admire. More at chilipdesigns.com.

Goddess Luxe: Necklace chains of delicate gold or silver, rings embedded with dazzling crystals, elegantly shaped earrings: this shop lives up to its name and makes jewelry fit for a goddess. See the collection at goddessluxejewelry.com.

Discover Atlanta Chinese Art: Godwin Kou and Kuansoi
(Christine) Kou are both accomplished painters and calligraphers dedicated to sharing authentic Chinese art with the world. Their work is delicate and striking while staying pure and unconfined. Go to discoveratlantachineseart.com for info.

Kettlerock Brewing: You can support this new, up-and-coming, family-run brewery boasting good stories and great beer with a purchase of their shirts or mugs. Go to kettlerockbrewing.com.

Knox Carter Kandles: The 100% soy candles melt into a gorgeous marbling so, with their pretty packaging and wide variety of scents, they look just as incredible as they smell. More info at knoxcarterkandles.com.

Puppy Present Designs: Specializing in matching collars and leashes for all sizes of dogs, your puppy is sure to be the prettiest at the park. Find their shop on Etsy.

Reminis Soaps: Stacey, the maker of Reminis Soaps, began her soap-making journey in 2016 because she was looking for a solution to her oily skin and post-shower itchiness. Now she handmakes beautiful, delicious-smelling soaps using only all-natural ingredients. Check out reminissoaps.com.

Whatnot Bear Mobile: This business is family-owned and operated. It began with the purpose of bringing children support and joy. Make your own child happy at the festival by coming home with a fuzzy friend! Find more at whatnotbearmobile.com.

XOC Designs: Specializing in a variety of materials to handmake stunning furniture and other homewares, you’re sure to wow your guests with these pieces. Browse xocdesigns.com for details.

Ziparoos: Committed to a sustainable home, Ziparoos makes and sells multi-purpose, reusable storage bags — but they also sell other eco-friendly products that are perfect for the kitchen or cleaning around the house. And they come in cute prints, so they’re fun for the whole family!

Find the full vendor list on the Exhibitor page at peachtreecornersfestival.com.

Food and Beverage Vendors

Whatever you’re craving, Peachtree Corners Festival is serving it up. From sweet treats to cool down in the heat or a little spice to intensify your day, the food court has you covered.

Speaking of sweet and spicy, Chocolate & Spice Eatery will be dishing it out both ways. Their Caribbean-French-Brazilian fusion-inspired offerings include islander’s sorbet served in pineapple, a Creole low country boil served with your choice of protein and vegetables, savory Brazilian barbecue and, of course, the classic festival food — turkey legs. Find them at facebook.com/chocoandspice.

Or chew on this: Chew-on Chuan stands out at festivals with their Latino-Asian fusion street food, and the Peachtree Corners Festival is no different. Smack on Asian street skewers (your choice of protein) with a side of mango salsa and tortilla, Dominican empanadas that sound so good they’ll make your mouth water just looking at the ingredients list, yucca fries, Thai Tom yum soup, scallion pancakes and grilled corn in a 13-spice barbecue sauce. Yum! Check them out at facebook.com/chewonchuan.

For more can’t-miss-it, gotta-have-it festival food, check out Tasty Yum Yum. Not only do they have the classics — fried Oreos, funnel cake, sweet tea and ice-cold lemonade — but they’ll also be selling hearty stuff like rice and peas, steamed cabbage, loaded fries, sausage, Philly cheesesteak and chicken any way you want it: popcorn chicken, chicken on a stick, jerk chicken, curry chicken–yum! Visit them on Instagram.

Thirsty? Phoenix Roasters will be roasting up a full espresso and cold brew bar. If you haven’t tried a nitro-based craft drink yet, this festival will be your chance! Get details at phoenixroasters.coffee.

What’s lunch without a snack, or dinner without dessert? After your meal, top it off with national award-winning homemade ice cream from Daddy O’Brien’s Irish Ice Cream Pub. Find out more at daddyosicecream.com.

If ice cream’s not your taste, Sweetacular Treats will have every other treat available to choose from, including popcorn, cotton candy, candied pickles and apples, Rice Krispies, cake, soda and lemonade.

Call for Volunteers

Need to complete volunteer hours this summer? Part of a service group and looking for a direction to channel your goodwill? Or just need to kill some time this season?
The Peachtree Corners Festival is volunteer-run, and volunteers are still being sought. With so many fun things to do all weekend, there are multiple avenues to get involved, no matter what your interests are — whether that’s assisting with the car show, distributing water to thirsty festivalgoers, setting up vendor booths or managing the hospitality suite.
Volunteers need to be above the age of 18 or have parental permission if younger. Volunteers will receive a commemorative T-shirt and pride in having supported their home city. Sign and return the 2022 volunteer waiver form via the Volunteer page on the festival’s website, peachtreecornersfestival.com.

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Ivy Marie Clarke

Ivy Clarke is a nationally award-winning writer, editor, artist and aspiring literary activist currently studying English literature, creative writing and art at Mercer University. In addition to her work with Peachtree Corners Press, she writes and edits for The Mercer Cluster, The Dulcimer, Macon Magazine and Mercer University Press. She has also published poetry in Atlanta Review, Glass Mountain and The Allegheny Review.

Community

Holiday Glow Event Offers Chance to Give Back While Celebrating the Season

Published

1 day ago

November 20, 2024

Shawne Taylor

The City of Peachtree Corners and Intuitive have partnered to support local non-profit, Because One Matters, at this year’s event.

It’s time again for one of Peachtree Corners favorite annual traditions: The Holiday Glow Lighting and Concert on the Town Green.

With live musical performances, trackless train rides, fun holiday activities and sparkling Christmas Tree and Menorah lightings — along with complimentary hot chocolate for guests — this festive, all-ages celebration has become a holiday tradition for many families in and around the city.

Kids and adults can immerse themselves in the joyful atmosphere, mix and mingle with neighbors, friends, family and entertainers and experience the magic of the season beneath the night sky and twinkling holiday lights.

Partnership for a special cause

Special for this year, the City of Peachtree Corners has partnered with Intuitive to support Gwinnett County non-profit, Because One Matters, at the event.

The organization provides assistance to children and families in the foster care system through donations and fundraising.

“[The] holiday event … is a good place to partner with companies like Intuitive and non-profits like Because One Matters to get their message out and allow more people to be involved [in helping] a good cause,” said Louis E. Svehla, director of communications for the city.

“Intuitive came to us, wanting to be more involved in the community,” Svehla continued, “We [looked at] a list of all of the non-profits that are [located] in the city or that help assist in ways in the city … and they [chose] Because One Matters.”

A custom-designed holiday ornament

Together, the city, the company and the non-profit decided to partner for the Holiday Glow event and do a limited-edition ornament — custom-made, custom-designed and hand-numbered to 200 — making it available as a gift to anyone who brings an item to donate from the organization’s wish list.

The city designed the ornament with input and agreement from both Intuitive and Because One Matters.

“And now here we are,” said Svehla. “It’s our first time offering a limited-edition ornament for people at the event who donate clothing, toiletries, things that [the organization] needs — it’s not a cash donation. And we’re hoping that we can do this every year, whether it’s a different company or a different non-profit, to do a series of [Holiday Glow event] ornaments to bring companies in, to support locals, to support non-profits and make sure we’re giving back.”

Because One Matters

With a mission of helping children in the foster care system as well as children and families in need, Because One Matters runs a variety of service programs throughout the year.

Their Wrapped in Love Closet initiative provides those families the opportunity to shop for new or like-new clothing items, toys and books, all free of charge. They also provide kids entering foster care with a duffle bag filled with essential items to increase comfort and security during their earliest days of placement.

Foster, adoptive or kinship families who would like to participate in the program, can find information on the Because One Matters website. For individuals, families or local businesses who would like to assist, a variety of donation, fundraising and volunteer opportunities are available.

During Holiday Glow, guests who bring an item to donate from the organization’s wish list will receive one of the special Holiday Glow ornaments in return — a great way to make giving back part of your holiday festivities.

“We are thrilled to be part of the Holiday Glow event and deeply grateful for the City of Peachtree Corners and Intuitive’s incredible partnership,” said Andrea Barclay, CEO of Because One Matters. “Their support not only brings joy to the community during this festive season but also helps raise awareness and vital donations for our mission. Together, we’re making a meaningful impact for the children and families we serve.”

The donation wish list

New underwear for girls (sizes 2T–14)
New bath towels & washcloths (no white towels, please)
New boy clothes (sizes 7–18)
New girl clothes (sizes 2T–12)
New boys’ boxers (no briefs; sizes 2T–14)
Bath body wash (for sensitive skin)
Non-spicy toothpaste
Single toothbrushes
Ikea bags
New girls’ & boys’ shoes (all sizes)
$50 store gift cards for teens
Pjs for girls & boys (all ages)

In addition to the food, fun and festivities, the crowd will enjoy live performances from:

Simpson Elementary Chorus
Peachtree Elementary Chorus
Pinckneyville Middle Band
North Metro Academy of Performing Arts Chorus and Dance
International Charter Academy Chorus
Chabad Enrichment Center Chorus

The Town Green offers free parking directly on-site or in nearby parking areas, which are accessible by a short stroll on the center’s nature path. Guests can also access the Town Green via Peachtree Corners’ landmark bridge, which connects to The Forum and the city’s pedestrian and bicycle trail system.

Community

PCBA Awards $3,500 to Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

Published

2 weeks ago

November 4, 2024

Peachtree Corners Magazine staff

Group of women holding a large check representing a donation from PCBA to GABC

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) donated a check for $3,500 to the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer at their October Business After Hours event. The organization was selected by the PCBA Community Outreach Committee and board, who are dedicated to identifying and selecting charities whose mission aligns with supporting the community.

Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer — formerly It’s the Journey — is a registered 501c3 non-profit that supports Georgia’s breast cancer community by raising funds for breast health and breast cancer programs throughout the state.

Since 2002, the organization’s Georgia 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer has raised over $19 million to fund 554 grants that provide breast cancer education, screening, early detection, support services and continuing care for Georgians. Their mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

“Since [our] donations are made possible through our members and sponsorships, we wanted to award this check at our recent PCBA Business After Hours Speaker’s event, allowing our members the opportunity to celebrate with us and learn how this organization supports our community” said Lisa Proctor, PCBA president. “This check represents the first of three charities we raised money for at our annual charity event, Tailgates and Touchdowns, in August of this year. We will be awarding a check to the Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries in November and Spectrum Autism Support Group in December.”

Supporting the community

“We are so proud of our continued commitment to supporting our community,” Proctor continued. “The PCBA has donated over $162,000 to local deserving charities and awarded 19 scholarships to outstanding graduating high school seniors in our metro Atlanta community since the inception of our community outreach program in 2013.”

Four women at a PCBA meeting — photo courtesy of the Peachtree Corners Business Association

Funds for the PCBA Community Outreach program are raised throughout the year from PCBA memberships, sponsorships and an annual charity event. Donations and scholarships are awarded during monthly events so that members have the opportunity to learn more about the selected organizations.

For more information about the Peachtree Corners Business Association, visit peachtreecornersba.com.

Community

Peachtree Corners Dedicates Memorial Garden to its First Lady

Published

3 weeks ago

October 29, 2024

Arlinda Smith Broady

A green sign with white lettering and white post for the Debbie Mason Overlook Garden in Peachtree Corners

Although Debbie Mason, the first First Lady of Peachtree Corners passed away in January 2023 just shy of her 72nd birthday, she left a lasting legacy on the community.

Her obituary summed up her attributes beautifully.

“If Debbie Mason believed in a cause, she could be counted on to work toward it tirelessly. Debbie was known to her family as a full-time mom, part-time Wonder Woman and occasional miracle worker. To her friends and community, she was a professional volunteer, fearless leader and perpetual truthteller.

Before starting her family, she worked as a legal secretary, where she began honing her exceptional organizational skills and trademark charisma, which made her the most formidable fundraiser. PTSA president, Scout den leader, drama club mom, sports team mom, volunteer organizer, teen-driving advocate, recycling and beautification champion — whatever her kids were involved in or called to her heart, she made it a priority.

A consummate ‘mover and shaker,’ there was little in her sphere of influence that didn’t receive a bit of ‘the Debbie Mason touch.’ She and Mike were founders of the Fox Hill Homeowner’s Association, where she worked to build community on the street she called home for 36 years. Hanging holiday decorations, throwing her annual Halloween party and even going door-to-door gathering signatures to have sewers installed in the neighborhood, Debbie spent so much of her time and energy in service of others.”

A loving memorial

At a memorial service in her honor, several members of the community stood around brainstorming a way to truly respect the impact she had on those around her.

“There were a group of us that just kept talking to each other and saying, what else can we do?” said Lynette Howard. “Debbie inspired us. She did so many things for us, and she gave up great things to the city. And the city was something that she just … it was her pride and joy, and she wanted to make sure that everybody was embraced and hugged in this city.”

Ribbon cutting with Mayor Mike Mason at the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden — Ribbon cutting ceremony with Mayor Mike Mason at the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden dedication, photo courtesy of City of Peachtree Corners

A public garden in Debbie Mason’s name was born from that discussion. And a little less than two years later, a dedication was held on Saturday, October 24 to commemorate the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden.

Her obituary went on to include her love of gardening and the outdoors.

“To nurture was her nature; she loved to look after her home and garden. Visitors often commented on how warm and welcoming the house made them feel and how beautifully decorated it was. She was an artist, viewing the backyard garden as her canvas and the flowers, plants and pots as her paints. Working in the garden restored her soul; it was her special place. She was brilliant, an independent thinker, honest, direct and utterly unique. There will never be another one like her.”

A plaque at the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden

Local residents and guests at the garden dedication

A legacy that will live on

As in life, her kindness, dedication and joy will live on.

“With the opening of this garden today, she will leave an imprint that will be enjoyed by Peachtree Corners citizens for generations to come,” said Dave Huffman during the ceremony.

Debbie inspired those around her to make a positive impact on the city, as seen in the garden project. The Debbie Mason Memorial Garden Committee: Bob Ballagh, Pat Bruschini, Lynette Howard, Dave Huffman, Sarah Roberts, Gay Shook and Robyn Unger worked together to answer questions, prioritize goals and honor Debbie’s legacy.

Large blue vase with colorful faux flowers at the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden — photo credit: Rico Figliolini

To ensure the garden design and features aligned with Debbie’s passions and the community’s input, the committee thought about things the garden shouldn’t be: hectic, feeling noisy, unkempt, sad, forgotten, without a purpose, ostentatious, gaudy, overdone, devoid of interactive things.

“Did we accomplish it?” Howard asked the crowd during the ceremony.

The thunderous applause proved that Debbie would have approved.