Podcast 302 – What the Student Assignment Project Could Mean for Redistricting in Dunwoody – Andrew Ziffer – DCSD Board

Two developments are shaping the conversation around Dunwoody schools this Fall. Friday night football is finally coming to DHS. After decades of playing at North DeKalb Stadium, Dunwoody High School will soon have bathrooms, a press box, and the 3,000 seats required to host true varsity home games. Community fundraising, a green light from the DeKalb County School Board, and support from major donors have set the project in motion.

But while high school families are celebrating, parents with younger kids are watching the Student Assignment Project unfold. DeKalb County is reviewing enrollment, capacity, and long-term plans, and redistricting is very much on the table. I ask DCSD District 1 Board Representative Andrew Ziffer about the rumors that Chesnut and Vanderlyn Elementary could be merged or closed, and he explains how those concerns fit into the bigger picture of balancing resources across the county. Change is coming to DeKalb schools, but how much of it will affect Dunwoody?

Website:

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-302-what-the-student-assignment-project-could-mean-for-redistricting-in-dunwoody-andrew-ziffer-dcsd-board/

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Podcast 301 – Dunwoody Rallies for Play Your Heart Out at the JCC – Lauren Nelson and Jamie Steuer

Lauren and Jamie, two Dunwoody High School students, are volunteering with heart—literally. They're helping spread the word about “Play Your Heart Out,” a high-energy pickleball fundraiser hosted at the MJCCA to support Save a Child’s Heart, an Israeli nonprofit that provides life-saving heart surgeries for children around the world. The event has grown from a small basketball tournament in 2017 into a beloved Dunwoody tradition that blends sport, service, and community.

Lauren’s passion for the cause started after volunteering at the SACH Children’s Center in Israel, where she connected with recovering kids from across the globe. Jamie was inspired by her family’s long-time support of the organization and wanted to get more involved locally. Together, they’re part of a bigger team of Dunwoody residents showing how even small efforts can lead to big impact.

Every dollar helps save lives—no paddle required. Donate here: https://www.classy.org/give/585167/#!/donation/checkout

Website:

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-301-dunwoody-rallies-for-play-your-heart-out-at-the-jcc-lauren-and-jamie/

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Podcast 300 – Why Perimeter Center Defines Dunwoody – Mark Galvin with Discover Dunwoody

Perimeter Mall isn’t just a place to shop, it’s the backbone of Dunwoody’s economy. Mark Galvin from Discover Dunwoody returns with all the local scoop, including why the mall still matters more than ever. It’s Dunwoody’s biggest taxpayer, a major job hub, and a magnet for out-of-town visitors. Nearly 9 out of 10 shoppers come from outside the city, which means Perimeter Center brings in big money without burdening residents.

They talk about what’s new around town: Grana’s pasta classes, Wahaka’s bold flavors, Lazy Dog’s Dunwoody success, and the much-anticipated Chubby Cattle near P.F. Chang’s. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream and Foxtail Coffee are also headed our way.

Month after month, Matt continues to ask Mark about city programs he’s not directly involved with, just to keep him on his toes. Dunwoody 101 is that topic this week. This hands-on program gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at how the city government works. The City is using the same trolley bus from the ReDiscover Dunwoody Trolley Tour to shuttle Dunwoody 101 participants around town. Just another example of how different groups are sharing resources to make the city even better connected.

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-300-why-perimeter-center-still-defines-dunwoody-mark-galvin-with-discover-dunwoody/

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Podcast 299 – The DHA’s Social Shift to Connect the Community – Julia Frament

The Dunwoody Homeowners Association is stepping into a new chapter, and Julia Frament is at the heart of it. She’s bringing fresh energy to DHA’s social media, creating a stronger online presence with regular updates. She’s also part of a team working on a refreshed membership approach that will introduce tiered options, a future perks card for discounts at Dunwoody businesses, and even member-only events to make joining feel more valuable.

DHA’s new Summer Socials are casual gatherings at favorite local spots like Good Vibes, Vino Venue, Chupito’s, and Dunwoody Tavern. These quick, drop-in events are perfect for meeting neighbors, renewing memberships, learning more about the DHA, and giving local restaurants a boost.

The DHA plays a big role in shaping the community we love. Now’s the time to connect, get involved, and enjoy the perks of being part of it all.

Learn more at whatsupdunwoody.com/dha

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-299-the-dhas-social-shift-to-connect-the-community-julia-frament/

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Podcast 298 – Dunwoody’s New Family Fun Destination - Big Play ATL - Valerie Inglesby

Dunwoody is getting a game-changer with Big Play ATL. Opening this fall at Mount Vernon Road and Dunwoody Club Drive, this massive indoor entertainment hub packs bowling, laser tag, mini golf, VR, and arcade games. It is all tied together with a full restaurant and bar serving fresh salads, salmon and craft cocktails while the kids have a blast.

The location is a win. It is one of the rare spots you can actually walk to in the suburbs. Big Play ATL is not just moving in. They are planting roots by upgrading the parking lot, teaming up with local groups and serving as a platinum sponsor for the Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade.

Birthday parties, date nights, alumni watch parties or catching a game with friends — you do not need kids to enjoy the fun. This is the kind of local hangout Dunwoody has been waiting for.

They are hoping to open sometime after Labor Day.

Sign up for opening updates at whatsupdunwoody.com/bigplay

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-298-dunwoodys-new-family-fun-destination-big-play-atl-valerie-inglesby

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Podcast 297 – A New Era Begins for Wildcat Football – Coach Matt Schmitz

Wildcat Football has a new leader, and Coach Matt Schmitz is ready to take the program to the next level. With more than 20 years of experience, he’s stepping into the head coach role at Dunwoody High with big plans. He’s building on Coach Mike Nash’s legacy while bringing his own energy and approach. He’s not just coaching a team. He’s shaping a system. From Junior Wildcats to varsity, every level now works together with the same goals, language, and support.

The Corky Kell Classic at Mercedes-Benz kicks off the season, but the real wins come from the day-to-day work. That means better nutrition, smarter scheduling, academic support, and a culture that helps every player grow. Backed by the Gridiron Club and our Dunwoody community, Wildcat Football is locked in for 2025. This one is about more than just football.

Full schedule at whatsupdunwoody.com/football

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-297-a-new-era-begins-for-wildcat-football-coach-matt-schmitz

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Podcast 296 – How Dunwoody Has Attracted 44 Restaurants In the Last 3 Years – Mark Galvin with Discover Dunwoody

Dunwoody isn’t just growing. It’s booming with flavor. In just three years, 44 new restaurants have opened across the city, and they’re not your average fast-food joints. These are chef-driven kitchens, local favorites, and unique dining spots choosing Dunwoody for a reason. Mark Galvin from Discover Dunwoody explains how new developments like Ashford Lane, High Street, Campus 244, Perimeter Marketplace, and the newly refreshed Park Place are all scoring big names and redefining what’s possible in the suburbs.

The wild part? Many restaurants aren’t replacing old ones. They’re launching in brand-new buildouts. That’s a sign of serious momentum.

From Velvet Taco and Grana to Nando’s, Cuddlefish, Hampton Social, and CT Cantina, Dunwoody’s dining scene is more diverse and more delicious than ever. Mark shares how his team markets the city, why locals should ride the trolley, and what’s coming next.

Explore the food scene: whatsupdunwoody.com/food Tour the city by trolley: whatsupdunwoody.com/tour

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-296-how-dunwoody-has-attracted-44-restaurants-in-the-last-3-years-mark-galvin-with-discover-dunwoody/

What’s Up Dunwoody Links:

🎧 All the podcast episodes.

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🔥 Local events around the city.

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🍔 Dunwoody restaurant guide.

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🏠 Homes for sale.

whatsupdunwoody.com/homes

🦷 Best orthodontist in town.

whatsupdunwoody.com/village

🚎 Dunwoody trolley tour.

whatsupdunwoody.com/tour

📍 Find local businesses.

whatsupdunwoody.com/local

🛎️ Book a hotel staycation.

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🦸🏻‍♂️ Origin story of the podcast.

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👕 What’s Up Dunwoody merch.

whatsupdunwoody.com/merch

Podcast 296 – How Dunwoody Has Attracted 44 Restaurants In the Last 3 Years – Mark Galvin with Discover Dunwoody

Dunwoody isn’t just growing. It’s booming with flavor. In just three years, 44 new restaurants have opened across the city, and they’re not your average fast-food joints. These are chef-driven kitchens, local favorites, and unique dining spots choosing Dunwoody for a reason. Mark Galvin from Discover Dunwoody explains how new developments like Ashford Lane, High Street, Campus 244, Perimeter Marketplace, and the newly refreshed Park Place are all scoring big names and redefining what’s possible in the suburbs.

The wild part? Many restaurants aren’t replacing old ones. They’re launching in brand-new buildouts. That’s a sign of serious momentum.

From Velvet Taco and Grana to Nando’s, Cuddlefish, Hampton Social, and CT Cantina, Dunwoody’s dining scene is more diverse and more delicious than ever. Mark shares how his team markets the city, why locals should ride the trolley, and what’s coming next.

Explore the food scene: whatsupdunwoody.com/food Tour the city by trolley: whatsupdunwoody.com/tour

https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-296-how-dunwoody-has-attracted-44-restaurants-in-the-last-3-years-mark-galvin-with-discover-dunwoody/

What’s Up Dunwoody Links:

🎧 All the podcast episodes.

whatsupdunwoody.com/podcasts

🔥 Local events around the city.

whatsupdunwoody.com/events

🍔 Dunwoody restaurant guide.

whatsupdunwoody.com/food

🏠 Homes for sale.

whatsupdunwoody.com/homes

🦷 Best orthodontist in town.

whatsupdunwoody.com/village

🚎 Dunwoody trolley tour.

whatsupdunwoody.com/tour

📍 Find local businesses.

whatsupdunwoody.com/local

🛎️ Book a hotel staycation.

whatsupdunwoody.com/hotels

📫 Join our email list.

whatsupdunwoody.com/email

⚽️ Get to know Matt.

whatsupdunwoody.com/matt

🦸🏻‍♂️ Origin story of the podcast.

whatsupdunwoody.com/origins

👕 What’s Up Dunwoody merch.

whatsupdunwoody.com/merch