Come From Away + Capital Grille

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What's up, neighbors!

The weather this weekend is the best we've seen in a while. Saturday hits 73 and sunny, so if you've been waiting for a reason to get out of the house, this is it. Enjoy it before pollen season shows up and ruins everything.

I'll be on the hiking trails Saturday morning. There are enough good options around here that you don't have to drive far, and a 73-degree March morning is about as good as it gets for that.

If you want something more structured, the Paint Like Bob Ross class at Dunwoody Nature Center is a great way to spend a few hours. Jeremy Rogers, a certified Bob Ross instructor who actually grew up in Dunwoody, walks you through a full oil painting in 3.5 hours. No experience needed, all supplies included, and it's $75. The Sunporch at the nature center is a nice spot to spend a warm morning, and this one works well as a date, a girls' outing, or just something different to do on a Saturday.

If you've got kids, the Farmers Market at Brook Run runs 9 to noon, and there's a free insect program at the Nature Center that same morning for the younger ones.

For a Friday or Saturday night, Come From Away opens this weekend at Byers Theatre in Sandy Springs. It tells the true story of what happened when 7,000 airline passengers got grounded in a tiny Newfoundland town on September 11th and the locals just took everyone in. It's a regional premiere, meaning nobody in the Southeast has staged this production before now. Tickets start at $70 and shows run through March 29.

Full weekend planner is below, plus local news, a restaurant, and a dog named Panda who needs a home.

- Andrew

(click to jump to the section)

_{This issue is sponsored by Peachy Insurance}

You're about to get some money back from the state. Before you spend it, spend five minutes making sure the stuff you already own is actually protected.

Georgia's new tax rebate means $250 back for single filers and $500 for couples. The homeowner relief grant could save you another $500 on property taxes. That's real money. And a good reminder to check whether your coverage still matches what you've got.

Here's what we mean: if your home's value has gone up (and in East Cobb, it probably has), your dwelling limit may not reflect what it would actually cost to rebuild. If you bought a car in the last year or two, your auto policy might still be based on the old one. These gaps don't show up until something goes wrong.

Spring is also when severe weather picks back up in north Georgia. Hail, wind, fallen trees. The claims we see most often are the ones people assumed they were covered for but weren't.

Peachy Insurance is Atlanta-based, licensed, and built to make this painless. No runaround, no upselling. Just a straight answer on where you stand.

A few things worth checking while it's on your mind:

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March 13–29
Byers Theatre
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center
Tickets from $70
Get Tickets
Listen to the original Broadway Cast on Spotify

This is a REGIONAL PREMIERE, meaning no theater in the Southeast has staged this production before the one opening Friday night in your backyard.

Come From Away tells the true story of what happened when 7,000 airline passengers got grounded in a tiny Newfoundland town on September 11, 2001. The townspeople doubled their population overnight and just took everyone in. No plan, just people deciding to show up for strangers. It's funny, it's moving, and it hits harder than you'd expect from a show about airport delays.

The entire show is performed by just 12 people, each playing multiple roles throughout the night. Shuler Hensley directs. He's a Tony Award winner, a native Atlantan, and the Artistic Director at City Springs. He just wrapped directing Oklahoma! at Carnegie Hall in January. Come From Away is his fourth production here, and this company has 330,000 patrons over eight seasons for a reason. Discounts for seniors, students, groups, and military.

City Springs parking is easy. Shows run through March 29 so you have a few weekends, but opening weekend has its own energy.

Yes, it's a chain. It's also one of the better dinner options in this neighborhood, and people who write it off for that reason are missing out.

This is where my wife and I go when we want a real dinner and don't feel like dealing with Buckhead traffic. It's right off Perimeter Center, parking is easy, and the room is quiet enough to actually have a conversation. Good for a birthday, an anniversary, a client dinner, or just a night when you want everything handled well.

The steaks are dry-aged in house for 18 to 24 days and hand-cut on site, which is more than most local spots do. The Parmesan and Gorgonzola crusted NY strip comes up in reviews more than anything else. The mint crusted lamb chops have a following too. If you go for lunch, people are consistently surprised by how reasonable it is for the quality. The coconut cream pie is worth saving room for if you're a dessert person.

Bar area works well if you don't have a reservation and still want to eat.

Price: $$$$

Hours:
Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm
Sat 4pm-10pm
Sun 4pm-9pm

Reservations: thecapitalgrille.com

⚠️ Heads up: A handful of reviews mention service inconsistency, particularly for solo diners or smaller parties on busy nights. It's not common, but worth noting.

If you've been thinking about trying barre but keep talking yourself out of it, the Dunwoody studio is a good place to start.

It's on Chamblee Dunwoody Road and has been around long enough to build a real community. My wife goes regularly and her take is that it's hard, but the kind of hard that actually feels worth it. She also loves the people there, which tracks with what reviewers say. The instructors know members by name, the owner Deb is hands on, and it doesn't feel like walking into a gym where nobody looks up. They run four class formats. Classic is the foundational 50-minute low-impact, high-intensity class most people start with. Align adds a flexibility and balance focus. Empower brings in cardio intervals.

Define layers in dumbbell work for more muscle definition. Every class is different, which is a big part of why people keep showing up. Reviews mention getting stronger, better posture, and less joint pain, which matters if you've been avoiding high-impact stuff for a reason. First class is free if you want to test it before committing.

Price: $$$

Hours:
Mon/Thu 6am-8pm
Tue/Wed 6am-7:30pm
Fri 6am-1pm
Sat 8:30-10:30am
Sun 9:30am-3pm

Website: purebarre.com/location/atlanta-dunwoody-ga

The Dunwoody City Council voted unanimously on February 23 to pause a contract renewal with Flock Safety, the Atlanta-based company behind the city's network of AI-driven license plate readers and surveillance cameras. The decision came after more than an hour of tense questioning of a company representative, with council members and residents raising concerns about data privacy, who can access the footage, and whether Flock's recent changes to its terms and conditions gave the city enough control over its own data.

Dunwoody Police Major Patrick Krieg confirmed that ICE does not have direct access to the city's Flock database, but also acknowledged that the department shares data with any law enforcement agency that requests it for an investigation. Mayor Lynn Deutsch was direct: the city needs to own and control what it collects. The vote deferred the contract to the March 23 council meeting, when the city's information security experts and attorneys are expected to report back after meeting with Flock representatives.

The city currently operates 80 Flock license plate readers, plus live-view cameras, gunshot detectors, and a drone. Dunwoody was an early adopter of the technology and the outcome of the March 23 meeting will determine whether that relationship continues.

More: Appen Media | WABE

Sandy Springs quietly added a significant new requirement for developers at its March 3 City Council meeting: apartment projects and other qualifying new developments must now pass a water supply test before receiving a construction permit. Fire Chief Keith Sanders told the council the change is needed to ensure the city can actually deliver fire safety services to new buildings before those buildings go up.

The timing matters. Sandy Springs buys its water from the City of Atlanta and the relationship has been contentious for years, involving multiple lawsuits and an ongoing dispute over a 21 percent surcharge Atlanta charges Sandy Springs customers. Because the city does not control its own water system, the council's position is that it needs to manage what it can on the development side. The new rule applies to multi-unit and single-unit attached projects, developments involving new or extended public water mains, and any project the city engineer or fire marshal flags as potentially affecting water system capacity.

If you're a developer, investor, or homeowner tracking new construction in the area, this adds a new step to the approval process that could affect project timelines.

More: Appen Media

The Sandy Springs Farmers Market kicks off its 2026 season on Saturday, April 4, running through November 21. Markets are every Saturday from 8:30am to 12:00pm at City Springs (1 Galambos Way), rain or shine. Each week brings a rotating lineup of vendors selling fresh produce, artisan foods, and specialty items sourced directly from local farms and makers.

If you've been making the drive to another market this winter, you can park it closer to home starting in just a few weeks. Vendor applications are currently open for anyone looking to sell this season.

More: Sandy Springs Farmers Market

Restroom renovations at Morgan Falls Overlook Park (400 Morgan Falls Road) kicked off on Monday, March 2 and are expected to last more than four weeks. Portable restrooms, including an ADA-accessible option, are available on-site for the duration of the project.

The park itself remains open, so you can still hit the hiking trail, launch a kayak from the floating dock, or let the kids loose on the playground. Just plan accordingly if you're making a longer visit.

More: Morgan Falls Overlook Park

She's been through more than most dogs her age, but you wouldn't know it from the way she carries herself. Panda is a medium-sized mixed breed who came out the other side of a rough situation and is now ready for the easy chapter.

She's seven, but acts younger. In her foster home she romps and plays with dogs half her age and has no interest in slowing down. She loves people, she's great with bigger dogs, and at the end of the day she wants exactly what most of us want: a comfortable couch and a solid nap.

She has completed heartworm treatment and is fully cleared, vaccinated, and spayed. Compatibility with kids, cats, and other animals is unknown since her history is limited, so a meet and greet is a smart first step. She does best with medium or large dogs. Small breeds aren't really her thing. Rescue Me GA is a foster-based rescue out of Dunwoody. To get started, fill out an adoption application at rmgdogs.org or email Adrienne directly.

Rescue Me GA Inc
Visits by appointment only
Apply: rmgdogs.org
Contact [email protected]
See Panda’s profile on Wagtopia

🛍️ Tossed Out Treasures (Upscale Resale) - Parkside Shopping Center (5920 Roswell Rd, Suite C-204, Sandy Springs) | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Shop the Sandy Springs Society fundraiser sale with clothing, home goods, and more.

🕯️ Shabbat, Me & Rabbi G - MJCCA Zaban Park (5342 Tilly Mill Rd, Dunwoody) | 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM | Free | More: Event info
A quick, kid-friendly Shabbat with songs, blessings, challah, and grape juice.

🎭 Little Women: The Broadway Musical - Dunwoody High Auditorium (5035 Vermack Rd, Dunwoody) | 7:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
High school spring musical. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:00 PM.

Saturday - Mar 14

🥕 DHA Farmers Market - Brook Run Park (4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody) | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Easy Saturday morning plan with local vendors.

🐞 Nature Ambassadors: Insects - Dunwoody Nature Center (5343 Roberts Dr, Dunwoody) | 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM | Free (signup) | More: Event info
Learn about insects, then meet the live insect ambassadors.

🚀 Science Time with the Science Guys of Atlanta - Sandy Springs Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy, Sandy Springs) | 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Space and rocketry themed show for kids.

Sunday - Mar 15

🏃 Brain Aneurysm Foundation Atlanta Run/Walk - Brook Run Park (4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody) | Registration 8:00 AM | Run/Walk 9:00 AM | Paid (registration) | More: Event info
A community run and walk fundraiser.

☂️ Mary Poppins JR (Jerry's Habima Theatre) - MJCCA Zaban Park (5342 Tilly Mill Rd, Dunwoody) | 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Family musical with multiple showtimes, including Sunday.

🛍️ Tossed Out Treasures (Final Day) - Parkside Shopping Center (5920 Roswell Rd, Suite C-204, Sandy Springs) | 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM | Free | More: Event info
Last chance to shop the sale.

🍀 Floating Pot of Gold (Adults 18+) - Sandy Springs Library (395 Mount Vernon Hwy, Sandy Springs) | 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM | Free (registration) | More: Event info
Hands-on craft class. Registration required.

🎟️ Come From Away - Byers Theatre at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs) | 8:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Regional premiere weekend.

Saturday - Mar 14

🎨 Paint like Bob Ross - Dunwoody Nature Center (5343 Roberts Dr, Dunwoody) | 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM | Paid ($75) | More: Event info
Step-by-step oil painting class. Ages 13+.

🎟️ Come From Away - Byers Theatre at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs) | 8:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Saturday evening show.

Sunday - Mar 15

🎟️ Come From Away - Byers Theatre at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs) | 2:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Sunday matinee.

🎭 Little Women: The Broadway Musical - Dunwoody High Auditorium (5035 Vermack Rd, Dunwoody) | 2:00 PM | Tickets | More: Event info
Sunday shows are at 2:00 PM.

4575 North Shallowford Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338

What it is: A low-effort neighborhood park that is great when you want everyone moving without turning it into a whole outing. There is a full basketball court plus two half-courts, pickleball lines, a big open field for soccer or frisbee, and a pavilion. It also connects to part of the Dunwoody Trailway, so you can add a short walk if your crew still has energy.

Why it's free: No admission fee. Just show up and use the courts, field, and trail.

Timing: Park hours are typically sunrise to sunset. If you want the courts, earlier in the day is usually easier before peak times.

Plan around it: This is a good pick for mixed ages. One kid can shoot hoops, another can run the field, and adults can walk the trailway loop. There are restrooms on site, which makes this much easier with kids.

Parking: There is on-site parking. It can fill up when games are happening, so avoid peak afternoon times if you want an easy spot.

More info:
Visit the dunwoodyga.gov park page
Get there with Google Maps

If you are renting a car for spring break, take two minutes before you click purchase. This is one of the easiest places to pay for coverage you already have, or skip coverage you actually need.

Start with your auto policy. Most personal auto policies extend liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage to a rental car, but the details vary. Call your agent or check your declarations page to confirm you have all three, and ask whether your coverage applies to the type of rental you are getting. Also worth knowing: most personal policies only extend coverage within the U.S. and Canada, so if your trip takes you outside those borders, do not assume you are covered.

Next, check your credit card. Many cards offer rental coverage, but it is often secondary, meaning your personal auto policy pays first and the card picks up what remains. It also typically only activates if you decline the rental company's damage waiver at the counter. Before you count on it, confirm whether your coverage is primary or secondary, what countries or vehicle types are excluded, and whether it covers loss of use charges and towing fees.

Last thing people forget: what happens if the rental is damaged and the company bills you for downtime, towing, or diminished value. Those charges can add up fast, and they are not always covered by your personal policy or your credit card. If you are not sure your coverage handles those extras, that is when the rental company's damage waiver may be worth it.

Helpful resource: https://www.iii.org/article/rental-car-insurance
Learn more: https://peachyinsurance.com/

This week: Perimeter-area job leads that are actually worth checking

Not every job board is worth your time. Here are the employers and resources locals actually use to find steady work close to home.

Cobb County Government — Parks, public works, IT, finance, and more. Full benefits including four medical plan options, pension, wellness clinic, and paid leave. Over 5,000 employees and openings turn over regularly. Browse: governmentjobs.com/careers/cobbcounty

Cobb County Schools — Goes well beyond teaching. Paraprofessionals, bus drivers, food service, custodians, IT support, and clerical staff. Health insurance and retirement included. Named Best-In-State Employer by Forbes. Job fair this Saturday, March 14 at Truist Park, 9 AM–noon — complete your application before you go. Browse: cobbk12.org/employment-opportunities

Wellstar Health System — One of the largest healthcare employers in Georgia with Kennestone Hospital right in Marietta. Plenty of non-clinical roles in scheduling, patient access, front-desk support, and medical records. Good for career changers and parents wanting weekday hours. Browse: careers.wellstar.org/search-jobs

Part-Time Work (Indeed filter) — Pre-filtered for part-time roles near Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and Brookhaven. Most consistent in retail, food service, healthcare support, and childcare. Skip any listing that won't show you the pay range upfront. Browse: Indeed — Perimeter Area Part-Time

Cobb County Sheriff's Office — Deputy starting salary $54K/year with a $4,000 hiring incentive (limited time). Lateral hires can qualify for $8,000. Also hiring civilian staff in communications, detention support, and admin. Benefits include tuition reimbursement and a free employee health clinic. Browse: cobbsheriff.org/careers