Episodes

  • Yanin Cortes Shares Why She's Running for Gwinnett County School Board

    Yanin Cortes Shares Why She's Running for Gwinnett County School Board
    May 7 2024
    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 Board
    00:01:41 - From Immigrant to Aspiring Musician
    00:03:55 - From Music to Family and Entrepreneurship
    00:05:48 - From Educator to Entrepreneur: A Diverse Journey
    00:08:09 - Pursuing a Passion for Education and Community
    00:10:12 - Celebrating Gwinnett County's Diverse School System
    00:14:36 - Navigating Discipline and Safety Challenges in Schools
    00:17:22 - The Role of the School Board: Oversight and Support
    00:20:10 - Balancing Community Input and Systemic Realities
    00:22:51 - Implementing Policies: Complexities and Challenges
    00:24:29 - Improving School Safety and Restoring Trust
    00:28:48 - Navigating Diversity in School Systems
    00:31:50 - The Joys of Family, Community, and Running a Restaurant
    00:35:17 - Advocating for Community and Children in School Board
    00:37:57 - Importance of Voting for School Board
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    40 mins
  • What's in Store for The Forum Peachtree Corners for 2024

    What's in Store for The Forum Peachtree Corners for 2024
    Apr 29 2024
    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
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    20 mins
  • Wesleyan Artist Market 2024: Meagan Brooker

    Wesleyan Artist Market 2024: Meagan Brooker
    Mar 28 2024
    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.
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    34 mins
  • Wesleyan Artist Market 2024: Students Bree Hill and Esther Cooper

    Wesleyan Artist Market 2024: Students Bree Hill and Esther Cooper
    Mar 28 2024
    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 Figliolini

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Introduction
    00:01:37 - Expanding Artistic Horizons at Wesleyan Market
    00:03:38 - Discovering Passion and Mediums in Art Creation
    00:05:13 - Expressing Emotions Through Art and Beyond
    00:10:53 - Preparing for the Artist Market at Wesleyan
    00:13:24 - Finding Inspiration Through Music and Fantasy Books
    00:16:01 - Dreams of Opening a Family-Friendly Bakery
    00:17:42 - Interviewing a Creative Baker and Graphic Designer
    00:19:43 - The Art of Evolving a Painting
    00:21:45 - Baking Creations for Holidays and Parties
    00:24:08 - Bree's Artistic Process and Finding Joy in Sculptures
    00:26:37 - Art Commissions and Wesleyan Artist Market Update
    :28:20 - Closing Thoughts
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    31 mins
  • How Georgia State legislation affects local cities, self-taxing districts, medical cannabas and more

    How Georgia State legislation affects local cities, self-taxing districts, medical cannabas and more
    Mar 13 2024
    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.
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    50 mins
  • How Peachtree Corners is Using, Advanced Cameras, Drones, AI and Next-Gen Policing Tools, Plus More

    How Peachtree Corners is Using, Advanced Cameras, Drones, AI and Next-Gen Policing Tools, Plus More
    Feb 2 2024
    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 - Intro
    00:04:09 - Addressing Vandalism and Crime with AI Surveillance
    00:07:57 - Protecting the Community: Addressing Minor Offenses and Ensuring Safety
    00:10:18 - The Use of Facial Recognition Technology in City Surveillance
    00:14:50 - Ensuring Child Safety at the Town Green Playground
    00:20:03 - Enhancing Safety with Surveillance Cameras and Technology
    00:24:40 - The Unbelievable Work of the Marshals
    00:27:36 - Exciting Updates and Events in Our Town
    00:30:40 - The Ultimate Fitness Event: Bike Races, Running Races and More
    00:35:29 - Improving Intersections for Safer Driving, East Jones Bridge and Peachtree Corner Circle
    00:38:21 - Developments & Traffic Safety Measures in Progress
    00:41:15 - Creating Affordable Housing Options in Peachtree Corners
    00:43:07 - Closing
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    46 mins
  • What to know about voter registration and municipal elections in Peachtree Corners

    What to know about voter registration and municipal elections in Peachtree Corners
    Oct 16 2023
    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 Voters
    Website: https://www.lwv.org/local-leagues/lwv-gwinnett-county
    Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lwvgwinnettcounty/

    0:00:00 - Introduction
    0:01:54 - Voter registration process and information for new residents in Georgia
    0:05:13 - Voter maintenance and the importance of updating voter registration
    0:08:34 - Absentee voting process and how to request an absentee ballot
    0:10:52 - Municipal elections in Peachtree Corners, Georgia
    0:17:18 - Being a prepared voter for the 2024 elections
    0:20:37 - The need to know who's on the ballot
    0:21:31 - Sharing personal experience about involvement in politics
    0:23:02 - Misleading information and the importance of understanding the ballot
    0:23:45 - Lesser-known positions on the ballot and the impact of voters' knowledge
    0:25:42 - Thoughtful voting and participation in local elections
    0:28:04 - Encouraging voters to engage with candidates and attend events
    0:29:39 - The process for third-party and write-in candidates in Georgia for the 2024 elections
    0:31:25 - Seeking additional information that Georgia voters should know
    0:33:28 - Advising voters to verify their voting location due to possible changes
    0:34:17 - Closing
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    37 mins
  • Demystifing Health Insurance and Open Enrollment

    Demystifing Health Insurance and Open Enrollment
    Oct 16 2023
    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.net
    Phone Number: 770-449-7369
    Erica’s Email: Erica@cdainc.net
    John’s Email: John@cdainc.net

    Timestamp:
    0:00:00 - Introduction
    0:01:18 - Erica's experience and background in the health insurance industry
    0:02:09 - John Czajkowski and his role in the family-owned insurance brokerage
    0:03:51 - Medicare and the open enrollment period
    0:06:57 - Seeking assistance for Medicare enrollment
    0:08:03 - Explanation of Medicare coverage in relation to employer-based insurance for individuals close to retirement
    0:08:47 - The complexities of health insurance and options for different age groups
    0:17:07 - 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
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    42 mins