🎉 Black History Month Kicks Off + February Feels Early

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Look y’all, I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for Spring.

And while the cold weather is going to continue, it should at least be sunny.

My wife and I have been leaning hard on Lost Corner Preserve lately for simple weekend resets. It's the kind of quiet, wooded spot that makes you forget you're still in Sandy Springs.

Sunday's Black History Month Celebration at the Marriott Perimeter Center is the kind of drop-in-friendly event we love: performances all afternoon, vendors, line dancing with actual instruction, and you can stay an hour or the whole thing. No big production required.

One quick heads-up: the Roswell Road North End project just got approved, so expect more construction on that stretch in the years ahead. A public meeting is set for Feb 10 if the project touches your commute.

Planner's below with the full rundown, from weeknight trivia to Sunday market strolls. All close to home.

- Andrew

(click to jump to the section)

Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center
246 Perimeter Center Pkwy NE, Dunwoody
Sun, Feb 1
2:00–5:00 PM
Free
Details: Create Dunwoody

If you’re looking for a Sunday plan that feels meaningful and easy (no long drive, no late night), this is a great one to circle.

Create Dunwoody’s Black History Cultural Celebration is built to be drop-in friendly.

Stay for the full program or pop in for an hour and still leave feeling like you did something good for your brain.

This year’s celebration is framed as a “100 years” moment, tied to the fact that Black History Month grew out of Negro History Week, first established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson and ASALH, so it’s a perfect kickoff to February without needing a big production.

Show up close to 2:00, do a first lap for vendors, then post up for a performance set. Repeat as desired. This one’s designed for wandering.

Want to check it out before you go? Here’s last year’s recap: video.

If you’re craving a treat for dinner that still feels close-to-home, Pêche at The Forum is a great move. It’s a modern seafood and raw bar spot that leans into coastal French flavors.

Think classic technique, bright sauces, and a menu that’s polished without being precious.

What I love about recommending Pêche for Perimeter folks is the vibe: it was designed to feel inviting, relaxed, and not too pretentious.

Its dining room works for date night or a just an ordinary dinner. And if the weather cooperates, there’s also a patio.

What to order: start with oysters or a crab cake, then go for a seafood main like lobster.

And if not everyone in your group is on a seafood kick, they also do steaks, chicken, and housemade pastas, plus desserts.

Best time to go: their Happy Hour menu runs Mon–Fri, 3–5 PM (perfect for an earlier night), and you can peek all menus online before you commit.

Details & menu: Pêche Modern Coastal

_{This issue is sponsored by Peachy Insurance}

The “big freeze” last weekend was a good reminder that “normal winter weather” in Georgia can still turn into burst pipes, surprise water damage, dead car batteries, and roof/ice headaches fast. You wouldn’t believe how many calls we got from customers filing claims this week 😟, and luckily nobody was hurt!

If you haven’t looked at your home + auto coverage in a while, this is a smart week to do a quick check, before the next cold snap (or the first round of spring storms) shows up.

Peachy Insurance is an Atlanta-based company built to move quickly and keep things simple: fast quoting, clear explanations, and licensed professionals who’ll help check your coverage without the runaround.

A few quick things Peachy can help you review in 10–15 minutes:

Get a quote or coverage review here: peachyinsurance.com OR text/call us 404-600-1660 (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

This local favorite in Dunwoody has quickly become a go-to spot for fresh, house-made New York-style bagels and creative bagel sandwiches that draw locals before work, during weekend brunch, or for a casual lunch.

Yaba's Bagels boils and bakes its bagels daily - a classic technique that gives them a chewy interior and crisp exterior - and then tops them with inventive spreads, schmears, and hearty fillings that reflect both traditional and Mediterranean influences.

Standouts on the menu include everything from the classic plain and everything bagels to crowd-pleasing signature sandwiches like the "Hotlanta" with scallion cream cheese and Mike's Hot Honey, or the Nova York with lox and capers.

Locals rave about the friendly service and warm, neighborhood vibe, plus the fact that there's always something new to try with seasonal spreads and specials.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite on the go or settling in with a latte and a bagel board on a slow weekend morning, Yaba’s feels like a community hub that’s worth the short detour off Perimeter roads.

Browse & menu: Yaba’s Bagels

The Sandy Springs City Council approved key measures on Jan. 20 to advance the Roswell Road North End Boulevard Project, a major revitalization effort spanning 0.58 miles from Dunwoody Place to the Chattahoochee River.

Planned improvements include a new signalized intersection at Roswell Road and North River Parkway, a connector road, pedestrian lighting, and new sidewalks. Design work is funded at nearly $3.9 million with federal and local funds.

Construction could begin in 2029 if the city secures an additional $13.2 million in federal funding. A public open house is scheduled for Feb. 10 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sandy Springs Middle School.

Source: Fulton Neighbor

The City of Sandy Springs has requested a ZIP code boundary review from the U.S. Postal Service, hoping to make "Sandy Springs" the default city name on mailing addresses instead of "Atlanta." Most of the city's eight ZIP codes still list Atlanta as the recommended city.

The push was inspired by neighboring Johns Creek, which successfully secured a ZIP+4 change last fall. USPS has 60 days to make a determination.

Source: Rough Draft Atlanta

The Save Spalding Committee, a parent-led nonprofit formed after Fulton County Schools closed Spalding Drive Elementary last year, filed a charter school petition on Jan. 16.

Working with Michigan-based National Heritage Academies, the group aims to open the Spalding Academy for Innovation and Learning (SAIL) by fall 2027.

The school district has 90 days to review the application. If denied, the group plans to petition the State Charter School Commission.

Source: Rough Draft Atlanta

Ayden Slipsager, a 2025 Dunwoody High School graduate and UGA freshman, was severely injured in a skiing accident in Colorado in December.

A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $104,000 to cover medical transport and treatment costs.

Slipsager has been transferred to Shepherd Center in Atlanta, where he is reportedly making progress. The campaign continues with a $120,000 goal.

Source: Rough Draft Atlanta

Grey is a fluffy gray kitten with a soft medium coat and an even softer personality.

He's described as affectionate, quiet, gentle, and a little independent, which makes him a great fit for families who like a calm companion more than a chaos gremlin.

He was rescued from street life in an apartment parking lot with his sister Tortie, and the two are bonded, so they’ll need to be adopted together into the same loving home.

Grey is house-trained, neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped, and has tested negative for FIV and FeLV, so he’s medically ready to settle in with his new people. He gets along well with kids and dogs, and would thrive with a patient family willing to give a shy-but-sweet kitten time to blossom.

Available through Patty's Kitties - Atlanta, GA (foster-based rescue, home visits by appointment)

Hours: By appointment • Phone: (404) 281-9035

Profile: Grey on Petfinder

🧊 Origami Snowflakes - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 4:00–5:00 PM | Free (registration required) | More: Fulton County Library
A quick, cozy craft hour — learn a few folds and leave with wintery paper snowflakes.

🃏 Magic: The Gathering — Drafts & Draughts (Open Play) - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 5:00–9:00 PM | Free to join (food/drinks extra) | More: Battle & Brew
Drop in for casual matches and a fun “after work” hang for teens + adults who love cards and games.

🌱 Get a Tree, Plant a Tree! - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM | Free (registration required) | More: Fulton County Library
Pick up a free tree seedling and get simple planting tips — a nice “small effort, big payoff” weekend project.

🥕 Sandy Springs Farmers Market - City Springs (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs) | 8:30 AM–12:00 PM | Free | More: City Springs
Stock up on fresh produce, artisan foods, and specialty items from local vendors. Live music entertains the crowd while kids enjoy activities. A true community gathering, rain or shine!

🛍️ DHA Farmers Market - Brook Run Park (4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody) | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Free | More: City of Dunwoody
Dunwoody's year-round farmers market features fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

🎮 Power Hour Gaming - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM | Regular pricing | More: Battle & Brew
Beat the crowds and claim your gaming station early. A fun Saturday morning activity for families who love video games and board games.

🧩 Kid’s Corner (DIY Crafts) - Politan Row at The Forum (5145 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners) | 2:00–5:00 PM | Free | More: Politan Row
Complimentary kids’ crafts in a food-hall setting — ideal for an easy afternoon outing.

♟️ Rook & Roll Chess Club - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 3:00–4:30 PM | Free | More: Fulton County Library
Drop in for casual games and friendly competition — good for beginners and regular players.

🧧 Red Envelope Craft - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 3:30–4:30 PM | Free | More: Fulton County Library
A simple, hands-on craft that’s perfect for kids (and anyone who likes a quick creative win).

🛍️ Shops of Dunwoody Farmers Market - Shops of Dunwoody (5468 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody) | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM | Free | More: Farmers Market Instagram
Sunday market energy with local vendors and an easy “wander + snack” vibe.

🎮 Power Hour Gaming - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM | Regular pricing | More: Battle & Brew
A chill Sunday morning gaming session before the weekend winds down.

🎭 The Benefit 2026 - Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs) | 12:00 PM or 5:00 PM | Tickets vary | More: Sandy Springs PAC
A polished “we did something” Sunday option that’s close to home (matinee or evening).

🎉 2026 Black History Month Celebration - Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center (246 Perimeter Center Pkwy NE, Dunwoody) | 2:00–5:00 PM | Free | More: Create Dunwoody
Family-friendly kickoff to Black History Month with performances, exhibits, and vendors — easy to drop in.

🎤 Throwback Karaoke at Okay Anny’s - Okay Anny’s (4550 Olde Perimeter Way, Dunwoody) | 7:00–11:00 PM | Free to participate | More: Politan Row
A fun, low-pressure singalong night built around 80s/90s hits (and the “one more song” energy).

🧠 Trivia Night - Politan Row at The Forum (5145 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners) | 7:00 PM | Free to play | More: Politan Row
Easy weeknight ritual: build a team, grab a drink, and play for bragging rights (and prizes).

🧘 Yoga with Lainey - Spruill Event Studio (5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody) | 8:00–9:00 AM | Free | More: Spruill
A simple, approachable morning reset before the weekend fills up.

🍷 Friday Night Tasting (Exploring Tannin) - Vino Venue (4478 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody) | 6:00–8:00 PM | $25 | More: Vino Venue
Four curated wines + light bites — a great “start the weekend” plan without a late night.

🎤 Karaoke Night - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 9:00 PM–12:00 AM | Free to participate | More: Battle & Brew
Kick off the weekend with songs, laughs, and maybe some liquid courage. DJ Buzz City hosts this high-energy night at the last Friday of every month.

🧘 Yoga with Marianne - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 10:30–11:30 AM | Free | More: Fulton County Library
A calm, no-frills class that feels more like “community stretch” than intimidating studio energy.

🧙 Dungeons & Drafts (TTRPG Saturday with ATLRPG) - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 12:00–5:00 PM | Regular pricing | More: Battle & Brew
A built-in social Saturday: tabletop roleplaying, good food/drinks, and a welcoming crowd.

📚 Author Talk: Piper Huguley - Sandy Springs Branch Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs) | 2:00–3:30 PM | Free | More: Fulton County Library
Perfect for book lovers looking for something different than the usual Saturday night plans.

🎤 Night Shift (90’s throwback + karaoke + music trivia) - Politan Row at The Forum (5145 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners) | 7:00–11:00 PM | Free (food/drink extra) | More: Politan Row
If you want a fun night out without the club scene, this is the move — karaoke + themed cocktails + good crowd energy.

🀄 Mahjong Social (Riichi) - Battle & Brew (5920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs) | 12:00–5:00 PM | Free to join (food/drink extra) | More: Battle & Brew
A chill, social game afternoon — come learn or jump in if you already play.

🎵 Music Bingio - Politan Row at The Forum (5145 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners) | 5:00 PM | Free to play | More: Politan Row
Like bingo, but with songs — fun, low-stakes, and perfect for a Sunday hang.

If your ideal weekend plan includes fresh air, calm brain, and an easy afternoon, Lost Corner Preserve is perfect.

It’s a 24-acre pocket of woods with walking trails, creek crossings, and a genuinely peaceful vibe. They have some cool on-site features like a renovated historic cottage, community garden, greenhouse, and even a bee apiary.

We just went through a freeze, so this week is more about ensuring our homes are secure and ready for the next freeze. A few quick checks now can prevent getting a surprise on a cold Georgia night in the form of frozen pipes and a big mess.

1) Do a fast “hidden leak” sweep

2) Protect the pipes that are most exposed to cold areas.

3) Space-heater safety check (because everyone improvises after a freeze)

One of our employee’s told us that their parents had a house fire that was started because a candle was too close to a curtain. They’re all ok, but its $180k of damage. Take this seriously!

The Dunwoody Plumber
(770) 551-1111
thedunwoodyplumber.net

Mad Hatter Services
(770) 740-8133
madhatterservices.com

Ful-Bro Heating & Air Conditioning
(678) 369-0500
fulbro.com

QUICK NOTE: After a freeze week, it’s also a smart time to check your home & auto coverage (deductible, water-damage scenarios, loss-of-use, roadside/rental). No pressure. Just clarity.

👉 peachyinsurance.com 👈