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The bitter divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta star Drew Sidora and her estranged husband, Ralph Pittman, has taken yet another ugly turn.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Drew is accusing Ralph of failing to make court-ordered mortgage payments on their shared Georgia home, leaving it dangerously close to foreclosure with a past-due balance of $25,251.07.
Drew Sidora Claims Ex-Husband Ralph Pittman Home Near Foreclosure in Ongoing Divorce War
In her latest filing, Drew is asking the court to hold Ralph in contempt, claiming his failure to pay was “intentional and willful” and that he has shown “no respect for the court order.” She is seeking a $1,000 fine as punishment.
Ralph has pushed back hard. He denies being behind on the payments and insists the home is not in danger of foreclosure. In court papers, he has asked the judge to deny Drew’s request for sanctions entirely.
The Latest Chapter in a Messy Split
This financial showdown is only the newest salvo in a divorce battle that has been raging since 2023. The couple shares children, and their split has played out publicly both on RHOA and in the courtroom, with accusations involving custody, finances, and more.
Just weeks ago, a judge ordered Drew to vacate the marital home by the end of May 2026. Drew pleaded with the court to reconsider, saying she lacked the funds to find a new place for herself and the kids. The judge denied her request.16
Drew’s latest motion appears to be an attempt to force accountability on the mortgage while she is still in the home and facing an imminent move-out deadline.
Fans React to the Drama
The news has sparked heated discussion among RHOA viewers. Many are frustrated that the couple’s ongoing legal fights are affecting their children’s stability. Others question why the pair hasn’t simply sold the house and divided the equity to move on cleanly. Some fans side with Drew, pointing to Ralph’s alleged pattern of financial irresponsibility, while others accuse her of prolonging the drama through repeated court motions.
One thing is clear: this divorce shows no signs of wrapping up anytime soon. With foreclosure threats, eviction deadlines, and contempt requests flying back and forth, the once-glamorous Housewives couple is now embroiled in a very real, very public financial and legal nightmare.
As the case continues in court, all eyes remain on whether the judge will side with Drew’s contempt request or accept Ralph’s denial. For now, the mortgage battle has only added more fuel to an already explosive split.
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ATLANTA, Ga. – May 8, 2026 – The Atlanta Dream officially unveiled their 12-player roster for the 2026 WNBA season on Thursday, setting the stage for what promises to be another competitive campaign following a franchise-record 30-win season in 2025.
The roster, headlined by a rock-solid core of returning stars and bolstered by high-impact offseason acquisitions, reflects the organization’s commitment to building a championship contender under second-year head coach Karl Smesko.
Atlanta Dream Announce 2026 WNBA Roster: Core Veterans Anchor Championship Push with Star Additions
The move comes just days before the Dream open their regular season on the road against the Minnesota Lynx on May 9.
Check out the Atlanta Dream’s 2026 schedule.
A Proven Core Returns
At the heart of the roster are five key holdovers who powered Atlanta’s breakout 2025 campaign:
- Allisha Gray
- Brionna Jones
- Jordin Canada
- Naz Hillmon
- Rhyne Howard
Collectively, this group helped the Dream post a .682 winning percentage and establish themselves as one of the league’s most efficient and dynamic teams. Their return provides continuity and veteran leadership as Atlanta looks to take the next step in pursuit of its first WNBA title.
Star Power and Fresh Talent Join the Fold
The Dream made a major splash in the offseason by acquiring two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese, whose elite rebounding, physicality, and championship pedigree immediately elevate the frontcourt. Reese joins a frontcourt that already features Jones, Hillmon, and the versatile Sika Koné.
Also making their mark on the opening-night roster are:
- Te-Hina Paopao, the dynamic guard coming off an impressive rookie season and continuing to develop within Smesko’s up-tempo system.
- Isobel Borlase, the WNBL MVP from Australia, who brings international scoring punch and versatility to the backcourt.
- 2026 draftees Madina Okot (6-6 center) and Indya Nivar (guard), both of whom impressed during training camp with their size, athleticism, and defensive intensity.
Rounding out the group is rookie guard Holly Winterburn, who earned her spot on the roster with strong play in camp.
Full 2026 Atlanta Dream Roster
# Player Position Height Experience College / Country 15 Allisha Gray G 6-0 9 South Carolina 5 Angel Reese F 6-4 2 LSU 42 Brionna Jones F 6-3 9 Maryland 7 Holly Winterburn G 5-11 Rookie England 21 Indya Nivar G 5-10 Rookie North Carolina 20 Isobel Borlase G 5-11 Rookie Australia 3 Jordin Canada G 5-6 8 UCLA 11 Madina Okot C 6-6 Rookie South Carolina 00 Naz Hillmon F 6-2 4 Michigan 10 Rhyne Howard G 6-2 4 Kentucky 23 Sika Koné F 6-3 3 Spain / Mali 2 Te-Hina Paopao G 5-9 1 South Carolina Early Buzz and Sharp Predictions
The roster announcement generated immediate buzz across Atlanta sports circles. Local outlet ATL Sports Zone accurately forecasted several of the final cuts and additions, including the inclusion of Holly Winterburn over fellow training-camp standout Taylor Thierry — a call the site made earlier this week as the final roster spots came down to the wire.
With training camp now complete, the Dream enter the 2026 season with a deep, balanced roster featuring 12 All-Star selections across the group and a clear identity on both ends of the floor.
2026 Season Outlook
Atlanta will open its home schedule on May 17 against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces at State Farm Arena. After a historic 2025 that saw the franchise take major strides, expectations are higher than ever in 2026.
The blend of veteran continuity, star talent in Reese, international flair in Borlase, and promising young pieces has Atlanta fans optimistic that this could be the year the Dream finally break through.
Stay locked in with ATL Sports Zone for full season coverage, in-depth analysis, and more as the 2026 WNBA season tips off.
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The City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs has revealed the official artwork for the 49th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival, and it’s a vibrant, motion-filled tribute to the city’s rhythmic soul.
Created by Atlanta-based illustrator and designer George F. Baker III (known as GFB3), the piece titled Spirit of Atlanta will appear on the festival poster and commemorative T-shirts, available for sale at the event.
George F. Baker’s Spirit of Atlanta Chosen for Jazz Fest
Baker’s design bursts with golden yellow tones that draw the eye across a lively tapestry of musicians, instruments, speakers, and Atlanta cityscapes. Every character appears caught mid-motion—inviting viewers to mentally complete the swing, step, or riff.
One striking detail shows a woman treating the skyline as her drum kit, while the central figure is modeled after Atlanta creative Plewto Smith, whose boundless energy and inclusive vibe embody what makes the city special.
“I wanted to showcase the dynamic of how a combination of people, music and energy can uplift the SPIRIT of the city of Atlanta,” Baker said. “What makes Atlanta interesting is the varied tapestry of cultures that come together to create a special sauce you can’t get anywhere else!” He noted that the piece feels “pulsating with the energy of the city,” and he tied its improvisational flow directly to jazz itself: “Jazz as a whole teaches you to keep playing, and you’ll find your rhythm. A lesson I try to take into the art I create every day.”
Adriane Jefferson, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, praised the work as a perfect representation of the festival’s heart: “This piece represents the heartbeat of Atlanta. It captures the spirit of the festival and the cultural legacy that makes this city a global center for music and creativity.”
The free, public Atlanta Jazz Festival returns to Piedmont Park over Memorial Day weekend, May 23–25, 2026.
Founded in 1978 by Mayor Maynard Jackson as the “Atlanta Free Jazz Festival,” the event has long championed jazz as America’s original art form while ensuring broad access to world-class music and culture for residents and visitors alike.
A Tradition of Powerful Visual Storytelling
This year’s commission continues a cherished Atlanta Jazz Festival tradition: each year the Mayor’s Office selects a distinctive artist—often a local or Black artist with deep ties to the city or jazz—to create signature artwork that becomes the visual identity for posters, T-shirts, and promotional materials.
The goal is to capture not just the sound of jazz but the lived spirit of Atlanta through visual art.
Recent examples include:
- 2025 (48th Annual): Vernicia Respres’ colorful Streetlight Jazz, which spotlighted a saxophonist bathed in dramatic light to evoke the electric energy of live performances. Respres, founder of the inclusive BRUSHED art studio and gallery, has long used her work to expand access to the arts in underserved communities.
- 2024 (47th Annual): Najee Dorsey’s mixed-media collage Two Generations, showing a father and son sharing a quiet, meaningful moment. Dorsey, known for chronicling African American life in the South through nostalgic and historical scenes, described his practice as preserving “stories untold” that might otherwise be forgotten.
- 2014 (37th Annual): The festival honored legendary artist Romare Bearden with his jazz-inspired collage Bopping at Birdland (also known as Walking Bass). Bearden’s improvisational photomontage technique—layering fragments of paper, fabric, and photos—mirrored the spontaneous spirit of jazz, a connection he explored deeply in both his art and writings.
From Bearden’s historic collages to the vibrant, community-rooted works of recent Atlanta artists, the festival’s signature artworks have consistently celebrated Black creativity, cultural fusion, intergenerational bonds, and the city’s unique “special sauce.
Baker’s Spirit of Atlanta carries that legacy forward, reminding everyone why the Atlanta Jazz Festival remains one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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The Historic Sweet Auburn District pulsed with energy this Mother’s Day weekend as the 40th Annual Sweet Auburn Springfest drew thousands of families, music fans, and community supporters for two days of free, vibrant celebration.
Sweet Auburn Springfest 2026 promises to be one of the best festivals in Atlanta this year.
When Is the 2026 Sweet Auburn Springfest?
Held May 9–10, 2026, along John Wesley Dobbs Avenue and surrounding streets in the Sweet Auburn Historic District, the milestone event solidified its place as Atlanta’s largest free multicultural outdoor festival.
Organizers from the Spirit of Sweet Auburn (SOSA) transformed the historic corridor — famously tied to the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s upbringing — into a vibrant celebration of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and community pride.
Event Highlights and Festivities
Attendees enjoyed continuous live music across multiple stages featuring everything from hip-hop and R&B to jazz and gospel. Local and regional artists kept the energy high, while dance battles — including the popular “New vs. Old” showdown — had crowds cheering and participating.
Family-friendly activities were a major draw. A dedicated kids’ zone offered games and interactive experiences, while history tours, art showcases, and cultural performances highlighted the district’s rich legacy. Vendors lined the streets with Southern classics, international flavors, handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and more.
Special touches honored mothers in attendance, including rose giveaways and community-focused surprises. Organizers also teased larger giveaways and social media challenges to keep the festive spirit engaging throughout the weekend.
The event ran:
- Saturday, May 10: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday, May 11: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Admission was free, with street closures in place and MARTA access encouraged for easy arrival.
A Legacy of Community and Revitalization
Sweet Auburn Springfest continues to play a key role in shining a spotlight on the historic district, aiming to restore Auburn Avenue’s prominence as a world-class destination. The festival supports local small businesses, vendors, and artists while fostering a sense of reunion — often described by participants as “the largest family reunion in the world.”
This year’s gathering built on nearly four decades of tradition, drawing diverse crowds from across Atlanta and beyond to celebrate resilience, creativity, and shared heritage in one of the city’s most significant neighborhoods.
Want more outdoor fun? Read our Best Atlanta Festival Guide.
The Best Food Events in Atlanta This Month
Ultimate Guide: Where To Eat In Atlanta
10 Georgia Food Festivals You Shouldn’t tMiss -
Festival season in Georgia shines from summer through fall, blending Southern hospitality, fresh local produce, barbecue, seafood, and vibrant community vibes. These events celebrate iconic flavors like peaches, apples, smoky BBQ, and coastal catches, often with live music, crafts, and family fun—perfect for Atlanta residents or Lake Lanier visitors seeking day trips or weekend getaways.
Georgia has quite a few festivals this time of year — and you should be there.
Here Are The Best Georgia Food Festivals For 2026
Ready to get a preview? Here are the best Georgia food festivals this year: Don’t forget to check out our in-depth Atlanta Festival Guide.
1. Georgia Peach Festival (Fort Valley and Byron, June 5–6 & 13, 2026)
- Location: Fort Valley and Byron (~90 miles from Atlanta, ~100 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: Celebrate Georgia’s peach harvest with peach-themed dishes, the world’s largest peach cobbler, farmers’ markets, parades, arts/crafts, and live entertainment. Expect thousands sampling fresh peaches and Southern classics.
- Why It’s Top: A quintessential summer kickoff highlighting the state’s signature fruit—fun, photogenic, and delicious for all ages.
2. Atlanta R&B Wine, Food and Music Festival (June 2026)
- Details: Outdoor event pairing R&B music, wine tastings, and food vendors. Past editions featured high-energy vibes at venues like Coolray Field in Lawrenceville.
- Why It’s Top: Combines great eats with live entertainment in a festive atmosphere—ideal for a lively summer night.
3. Food That Rocks (Sandy Springs, June 4, 2026)
- Location: City Springs, Sandy Springs (metro Atlanta).
- Details: Presented by Taste of Atlanta; features 25+ local restaurants, craft cocktails, and a vibrant culinary scene in one all-inclusive evening.
- Why It’s Top: Convenient for Atlanta locals, with top-tier bites and no wallet needed after entry.
4. Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival (Kennesaw, October 16–17, 2026)
- Location: United Bankshares Amphitheater at Depot Park, Downtown Kennesaw (~25 miles from Atlanta, ~35 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: Two days of competitive barbecue (ribs, pulled pork, Southern sides), live country music, craft beer, arts/crafts, and kids’ activities. Draws huge crowds with smoky flavors and festive energy.
- Why It’s Top: A major BBQ showdown with family-friendly entertainment right near Atlanta.
5. Atlanta Food & Wine Festival (September 2026)
Photo credit: Atlanta Food & Wine Festival - Location: New home at The Home Depot Backyard and various metro Atlanta spots.
- Details: Premier multi-day event with 200+ chefs, tasting tents, chef dinners, cocktail demos, beer/spirits, and Southern food trends. Focuses on regional ingredients and innovation.
- Why It’s Top: Atlanta’s signature foodie extravaganza—scale, celebrity chefs, and diverse offerings make it unmissable.
6. Taste & Brews Music Fest (Canton, September 12–13, 2026)
- Location: Etowah River Park, Canton (~40 miles from Atlanta, ~25 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: Southern foods from 20+ vendors, craft beers, farmers’ market, arts/crafts, kids’ zone, and live music in a relaxed park setting. Free admission.
- Why It’s Top: Proximity to Lake Lanier plus emphasis on local flavors and family fun.
7. Helen Oktoberfest (Helen, September 10–November 1, 2026, weekends)
- Location: Helen (~85 miles from Atlanta, ~45 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: Longest-running Oktoberfest in the U.S. in a Bavarian-style town. German fare (bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel), beer, polka music, and dances. Peaks in October. gosouthsavannah.com
- Why It’s Top: Unique cultural blend with Southern twists; great for mountain escapes near Lake Lanier.
8. FoodieLand Food Festival (Atlanta area, September 4–6, 2026)
- Details: 250+ vendors with global flavors, artisan shops, games, and live music at a large venue like EchoPark Speedway in Hampton. eventbrite.com
- Why It’s Top: Massive scale with diverse international eats—perfect for adventurous foodies.
9. Georgia Apple Festival (Ellijay, October 10–11 & 17–18, 2026)
- Location: Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds and Downtown Ellijay (~75 miles from Atlanta, ~35 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: Apple dishes, cider, cooking demos, parade, classic cars, vendors, crafts, and family activities across two weekends. Admission ~$10. georgiaapplefestival.org
- Why It’s Top: Cozy fall harvest celebration in North Georgia’s apple country.
10. St. Marys Seafood Festival (St. Marys, October 3, 2026)
- Location: Downtown St. Marys (coastal Georgia, ~300 miles from Atlanta).
- Details: Shrimp, crab, fish dishes, local beers/wines, parade, arts/crafts, and restaurant specials/food trucks. Includes runs and family events. visitstmarys.com
- Why It’s Top: Authentic coastal Georgia seafood experience worth the drive.
1. Georgia Peach Festival (Fort Valley and Byron, June 6–7 & 14, 2025)
- Location: Fort Valley and Byron (~90 miles from Atlanta, ~100 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: A two-weekend festival celebrating Georgia’s iconic peach harvest. Features peach-themed dishes, the world’s largest peach cobbler (11×5 feet), farmers’ markets, parades, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Over 10,000 visitors attend for the cobbler sampling alone.
- Why It’s Top: Unique for its focus on Georgia’s signature fruit, with a massive cobbler as a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for those exploring beyond Atlanta.
2. Georgia Food + Wine Festival — March 21-23
Location: Jim R. Miller Park, Marietta (~20 miles from downtown Atlanta, ~30 miles from Lake Lanier).
Details: A three-day celebration of Georgia’s culinary stars, farmers, and artisans. Highlights include the “Fired-Up” barbecue event (Friday), the “Savor” main event with unlimited beer, wine, and spirit tastings, 15+ restaurants, and a Georgia Celebrity Chef Stage (Saturday), and a family-friendly “Sunday Funday” with a kids’ zone and oyster roast. Features live music and local crafts.
Why It’s Top: Combines Southern barbecue, craft beverages, and family-friendly vibes, with a strong focus on Georgia-grown ingredients. Learn more.
3. Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival – March 29, 30
Photo credit: Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival The Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival occurred on Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30, 2025. The time of the festival runs from 10 a.m to 6 p.m.
4. Atlanta R&B Wine, Food and Music Festival — June 21
Who doesn’t like to enjoy a good meal while they listen to live music outdoors? The Atlanta R&B Wine Food & Music Festival is happening on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Address: 2500 Buford Drive Lawrenceville, GA 30043.
5. Atlanta Creole Food Festival — November (Date TBD)
Do you love jambalaya, etoufee and the other bayou goodies? Don’t miss the Atlanta Creole Food Festival, which takes this June in the city.
6. Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival (Kennesaw, August 15–16, 2025)
- Location: United Bankshares Amphitheater, Kennesaw (~25 miles from downtown Atlanta, ~35 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: A major barbecue festival with a competition featuring top pitmasters, live music, craft beer, arts and crafts, and kids’ activities. Known for its smoky ribs, pulled pork, and Southern sides, drawing large crowds for its festive atmosphere.
- Why It’s Top: Combines competitive barbecue with family-friendly entertainment, making it a hit for Atlanta-area residents and visitors.
7. Atlanta Food & Wine Festival – Sept. 12-17
Photo credit: Twitter/@ATLFoodAndWine The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival will be held September 11–14, 2025.
- Location: Various metro Atlanta locations (~3–15 miles from downtown Atlanta, ~40–50 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: A premier four-day culinary event showcasing the South’s top chefs, mixologists, and food trends. Features over 200 chefs with tasting tents, curated chef dinners, cocktail demos, and craft beer and spirit tastings. Known for preserving Southern food traditions while introducing innovative dishes. Expect live music, VIP lounges, and a focus on regional ingredients.
- Why It’s Top: Its scale, celebrity chef involvement, and diverse offerings make it a must-visit for foodies. Attracts thousands to Atlanta’s vibrant culinary scene.
8. Taste and Brews Festival (Canton, September 13–14, 2025)
- Location: Etowah River Park, Canton (~40 miles from downtown Atlanta, ~25 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: A Southern food and drink festival with 20+ vendors serving regional dishes, craft beers, a farmers’ market, arts and crafts, and kids’ activities. Emphasizes Georgia’s culinary heritage with live music and a relaxed park setting.
- Why It’s Top: Its proximity to Lake Lanier and focus on Southern flavors make it ideal for anglers looking for a nearby foodie event.
9. Helen Oktoberfest (Helen, September 4–October 26, 2025)
Photo credit: Playhouse Media - Location: Helen (~85 miles from Atlanta, ~45 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: The longest-running Oktoberfest in the U.S., held in Georgia’s Bavarian-style mountain town. Features German food (bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel), beer, music, and dances like the polka and chicken dance. Runs weekends, with peak crowds in October.
- Why It’s Top: Its cultural immersion and proximity to Lake Lanier make it a standout for those fishing or staying in the area. The festive vibe is unmatched.
10. Georgia Apple Festival (Ellijay, October 11–12 & 18–19, 2025)
- Location: Ellijay (~75 miles from Atlanta, ~35 miles from Lake Lanier).
- Details: A fall favorite celebrating Georgia’s apple harvest with apple-based dishes, cider, cooking demos, a parade, and a classic car show. Features vendors, crafts, and family-friendly activities across two weekends.
- Why It’s Top: Perfect for autumn visitors to North Georgia, especially those near Lake Lanier, with a cozy, family-oriented vibe.
Where to pick apples in Georgia.
11. St. Marys Seafood Festival (St. Marys, October 4, 2025)
- Location: St. Marys (~300 miles from Atlanta, coastal Georgia).
- Details: A coastal celebration of Georgia’s seafood, with shrimp, crab, and fish dishes, plus local beers, wines, a parade, and arts and crafts. Features restaurant specials and food trucks.
- Why It’s Top: Highlights Georgia’s coastal cuisine, perfect for seafood lovers willing to travel beyond Atlanta.
Love fried fish, calamari and more? Check out our Atlanta Seafood Guide.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
Georgia’s mild weather makes the winter a pretty fun place, but when it warms up just a little bit, that’s when the food festivals take over. The best Georgia food festivals offer awesome food, strong cocktails, craft beer and live music.
So you’re in Atlanta for the weekend or a few more days. What to do? Well, first of all, there are quite a few things to see and do, but first you gotta eat!T
Take a look at the many food spots downtown Atlanta, or even in Buckhead That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. CNN Center often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
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We’ve got a new Atlanta restaurant alert! Husband-and-wife team Dinh Tran and Khanh Dang are expanding their popular Vietnamese restaurant group with a new flagship location at Lenox Square in Buckhead.
Việtvana Phở Noodle House will open across from Sweetgreen, transforming the space into a vibrant, open-kitchen concept that captures the energy of Vietnam’s bustling street-side eateries.
Việtvana Opening in Lenox Square: What To Know
The Lenox Square outpost features a full menu available from morning through night, designed as an all-day destination. Guests can start with coffee and breakfast items and linger through lunch and dinner, enjoying signature dishes like phở, banh mi, vermicelli bowls, broken rice plates, fried rice, appetizers, beverages, and desserts.
The restaurant’s layout includes hallway seating that evokes the narrow, lively alleys of Saigon.“The open kitchen and the hallway are meant to feel like an all-day Saigon alley,” said Tran. “Guests can come in for coffee in the morning and stay through dinner, and the space is built for that. Lenox Square is our flagship.”
The design, led by Danny England and Morgan Justis of Creative License Studio, centers on a purpose-built open kitchen that puts the cooking process front and center, enhancing the authentic atmosphere while supporting extended daypart service.
What sets Việtvana apart is its commitment to authenticity and freshness. The restaurant makes its rice noodles in-house daily, using rice flour for that signature silky texture. Broths simmer for hours—often starting as early as 3 a.m.—with ingredients sourced thoughtfully, including beef and chicken for the pho. Family recipes, including input from Tran’s mother Tina Nguyen, guide the menu. whatnow.com
The concept has expanded rapidly:- Avondale Estates (original location at 2831 E College Ave) — A cozy spot with Vietnam-inspired murals and an outdoor patio.
- Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE) — A bustling food hall presence.
- Lee + White Food Hall (1020 White St SW, Stall #4) in the West End — Opened in 2024, bringing pho to a revitalizing historic district.
Việtvana has built a strong following in Atlanta since its debut in Avondale Estates in 2019. The group now operates additional locations at Ponce City Market and the Lee + White Food Hall in the West End. Last June, Tran and Dang introduced three new concepts — Boom Boom Bao, Lime Tiger, and Uwu Asian Dessert Co. — in the redesigned Central Food Hall at Ponce City Market.
David Vinehout, vice president of leasing at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, expressed enthusiasm for the addition: “We are excited to welcome Việtvana — one of Atlanta’s most popular Vietnamese restaurants — to Lenox Square. This authentic, internationally inspired concept delivers an elevated, all-day dining experience that enhances Lenox Square’s dynamic mix of culinary offerings and enriches what our guests can enjoy throughout the day.”
At the core of every Việtvana restaurant is its phở, prepared daily from family recipes handed down through generations. The broth achieves its signature sweetness and depth from onions, shallots, ginger, garlic, and beef bones simmered fresh each day.
Chefs make the rice noodles in-house using traditional methods and bake banh mi bread on-site. The recipes are a collaboration between Tran and his mother, Tina Nguyen, who remains actively involved in the kitchens.Through its growing presence, Việtvana aims to elevate perceptions of Vietnamese and Asian cuisine.
The name itself embodies this vision — blending “Việt” with “nirvana” to suggest Vietnamese food at its highest, most harmonious expression. With the Lenox Square opening, the Tran-Dang family continues to bring authentic flavors and warm hospitality to Atlanta’s dining scene.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Reality TV icon Nene Leakes is back in familiar territory when it comes to her love life. According to a new report from TMZ, the Real Housewives of Atlanta star has ended her brief romance with Memphis attorney Arthur Horne III and has rekindled her relationship with longtime love interest Nyonisela Sioh.
Nene Leakes’ On-Again, Off-Again Romance Heats Up Again — Memphis Lawyer Fling Officially Over
The news comes just weeks after Nene was spotted out with the attorney, sparking headlines and fan speculation about a new chapter. That sighting — which included a now-viral video of the pair looking cozy — appears to have been short-lived.
Nene Leakes and Nyonisela Sioh Are Back
Sources close to the situation told TMZ that Nene and Arthur only went on a handful of dates over a two- to three-week period. Arthur himself confirmed the fling was casual, describing Nene as “a phenomenal, fantastic woman” and “a lot of fun to be around,” but stressing they were never in a serious relationship.
Meanwhile, insiders say Nene has quietly circled back to Nyonisela Sioh — the man she has dated on and off since 2021. The pair were last publicly linked in fall 2025, and according to TMZ’s sources, they never fully broke up in the first place. Their relationship has reportedly remained complicated, with no exclusive label ever placed on it.
The rekindling shouldn’t come as a total surprise to longtime RHOA fans. Nene and Nyonisela’s romance has been a roller coaster for years, filled with public ups and downs that often played out both on and off the show. Now, it seems the spring season has brought them back together once more.
TMZ reached out to representatives for both Nene and Nyonisela but had not received comment at the time of publication.
The update was first highlighted by reality TV commentator @JaysRealityBlog, who shared the TMZ story alongside a photo and a callback to the earlier sighting of Nene with her short-term flame. The post quickly drew reactions from fans, with many commenting on the “exhausting” back-and-forth and joking that Nyonisela must be tired of the cycle.
For now, it looks like Nene is choosing the path she knows best — returning to the man who’s been part of her story for half a decade. Whether this round sticks or becomes another chapter in their long-running saga remains to be seen.
Stay tuned — with RHOA always lurking in the background, this love story could be headed for the small screen next.
Fans will be watching closely to see if Bravo makes space for the queen who helped put Atlanta on the reality TV map.
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Institutional investors own about 72,000 single-family homes in metro Atlanta—more than double any other U.S. metropolitan area.
A recent report from the Washington, D.C.-based American Economic Liberties Project (AELP), titled “The New Rent Seekers: How Atlanta Became Ground Zero for Wall Street Single-Family Rentals, and What to Do About It,” details how metro Atlanta became the epicenter of corporate ownership of single-family homes and examines its effects on housing affordability, homeownership rates, and communities.
Corporate-Owned Homes: Why Atlanta Became Ground Zero’
The report traces the trend back to the aftermath of the 2008 Great Financial Crisis.
Atlanta was hit particularly hard: home prices dropped sharply (17.7% in 2012, the largest decline nationally), leading to widespread foreclosures. Banks seized more homes in the Atlanta area than anywhere else in the country at one point.
Federal policies played a key role in enabling institutional investors:
- Support for bulk purchases of foreclosed homes by large firms rather than widespread mortgage modifications.
- Tightened lending standards that limited competition from individual buyers.
- Weak local tenant protections in Georgia, including swift evictions and limited habitability standards (updated only recently), which lowered risks for absentee corporate landlords.
Institutional investors snapped up homes at discounts, often paying cash, and turned them into rentals.
Three major corporations now control nearly 20,000 homes in the metro area, and seven firms own over 51,000 using various corporate aliases. In some neighborhoods and counties, large investors own a majority or up to 80% of single-family rentals.
Institutional ownership accounts for roughly 30% of metro Atlanta’s single-family rental stock—about 10 times the national average.
Build-to-Rent: The Next Frontier
The trend has evolved beyond buying existing homes. Atlanta has become a testing ground for “build-to-rent” (BTR) communities, where homes are constructed specifically as investor-owned rentals and never intended for individual purchase.
The region saw over 3,000 BTR units delivered in 2024 and ranks high nationally in BTR construction.
Entire neighborhoods, such as parts of McDonough and South Fulton’s Parkview Estates, now feature blocks of rental homes owned by large firms.
Impacts on Families and Housing
The AELP report argues that this shift has:
- Raised home prices and reduced homeownership — Contributing to as much as 25% of the decline in homeownership rates in Atlanta post-crisis. It estimates Georgia families lost about $5 billion in home equity, with Black homebuyers bearing roughly $3.5 billion of that loss.
- Affected tenants — With reports of rent hikes, poorer maintenance, and higher eviction rates compared to smaller landlords.
- Worsened affordability — Even as Atlanta’s prices look moderate nationally, they have outpaced local income growth more than in peer regions.
Proponents, including the National Rental Home Council, counter that these homes add needed supply and that restricting investor activity could reduce new housing construction. They emphasize that most single-family rentals (over 90%) remain owned by “mom-and-pop” landlords.
Policy Responses
The report comes amid federal debates over housing legislation.
The bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, which recently passed the Senate, includes provisions to limit large-scale institutional ownership of single-family homes, including build-to-rent models. Georgia Senators Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff have supported efforts to curb corporate ownership.
Earlier executive actions and proposals under President Trump also addressed investor-owned homes.
Laurel Kilgour, the report’s author and AELP research manager, described Atlanta as a “guinea pig” for a model Wall Street hopes to scale nationwide. She warned that without intervention, more families could face a rental-only American Dream.
As housing shortages persist nationally, Atlanta’s experience offers a cautionary case study on the long-term effects of large-scale financialization of single-family housing.
The debate continues on balancing investment, supply, and accessibility for ordinary families.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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In a recent interview, Real Housewives mastermind Andy Cohen addressed the buzz surrounding NeNe Leakes’ surprise appearance on Ultimate Girls Trip and whether it signals a potential return to The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
NeNe, a founding cast member and one of the most iconic figures in the Housewives franchise, has had a complicated history with Bravo in recent years, including a high-profile lawsuit against the network. During the conversation, Cohen was asked why the network would bring her back for the Ultimate Girls Trip special despite the past legal drama.
Nene Leakes’ return to RHOA: What Andy Says
“We are celebrating 20 years of the Housewives,” Cohen explained. “I can’t speak to that lawsuit, but it’s in the past. She was integral to the show and its success. As we looked back on 20 years, it felt like doing something with her would be really nice for the fans, and she really wanted to do it. It was very positive.”
The appearance has naturally sparked speculation among fans about whether this is a stepping stone to a full-time return to RHOA. Cohen was direct when asked if the special was a “foot in the door” for NeNe’s comeback.
“You know what? We’ve worked so hard to get a cast on Atlanta that is cohesive and makes sense and that we love and the fans love,” he said. “We want to be at the level that Atlanta used to be, and we are finally there. That’s what I’m focusing on right now.”
Cohen’s comments strike a careful balance—celebrating NeNe’s contributions to the franchise’s legacy while emphasizing the current focus on the existing RHOA cast. The 20th anniversary celebrations appear to be about honoring history and giving fans nostalgic moments without committing to major cast shake-ups.
NeNe Leakes helped put Real Housewives of Atlanta on the map with her larger-than-life personality, memorable one-liners, and unfiltered drama during her many seasons on the show. Her departure and subsequent legal battles created headlines, but her influence on the series remains undeniable.
Whether this Ultimate Girls Trip appearance remains a one-off celebration or plants the seeds for something more, fans are sure to be watching closely. For now, Andy Cohen seems content keeping the current Atlanta ensemble intact while tipping his hat to the franchise’s trailblazers.
Only time will tell if NeNe will once again be “gone with the wind… fabulous” on RHOA.
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Atlanta teachers, it’s your week! National Teacher Appreciation Week runs May 4–8, 2026, and local restaurants and national chains with plenty of Atlanta locations are rolling out discounts, free meals, and specials to say thank you.
Always bring a valid school ID, check with specific locations (participation can vary by franchise), and call ahead to confirm details. For larger and longer deals, check out our Atlanta Food Specials Guide.
Teacher Appreciation Week 2026: Atlanta Deals & Freebies
Here’s a roundup of standout food deals available this week in the Atlanta area:
Chick-fil-A (Atlanta HQ favorite)
Many participating Chick-fil-A locations are offering teachers a free Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich or similar item (like Chick-n-Minis or 8-count Nuggets) on Tuesday, May 5 (or throughout the week—varies by store). Show your school ID. Check your nearest location via their social media or by calling, as offers are franchise-specific.
Applebee’s
From May 4–8, enjoy a free appetizer or dessert (up to $12 value) with the purchase of an entrée at participating locations. Flynn-operated spots in Georgia often participate. A BOGO entrée voucher for later use may also be available at select spots.
Buffalo Wild Wings
20% off dine-in orders for teachers and school staff showing a valid school ID, available through May 10 at Atlanta-area locations.
McAlister’s Deli
Free 32 oz tea (sweet or unsweet) with educator ID at participating locations from May 4–8. Perfect for those long planning periods.
Einstein Bros. Bagels
On May 6, get a free Bagel & Shmear of your choice with any purchase when you show your teacher or nurse ID.
Chipotle
Enter for a chance to win one of 100,000 free burrito e-gift cards through May 12 via Chipotle’s Teacher Thanks site. Winners are selected randomly—worth a quick entry!
More Notable Deals Across Atlanta Chains
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria: 15% off all orders May 4–8 with valid school ID (nationwide, including Atlanta spots).
- Capriotti’s: 20% off in-store orders through May 12.
- Potbelly: Free cookie or regular fountain drink with any entrée purchase (May 4–12).
- Whataburger: Free breakfast menu item (e.g., Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit) on Thursday, May 7, from 5–9 a.m. with school ID.
- Beef ‘O’ Brady’s and similar spots: Often 15% off—check local listings.
Local favorites and independents may have unlisted specials—follow Atlanta spots on social media or check apps like Atlanta on the Cheap for updates.65
Pro Tips for Atlanta Teachers:
- Deals are first-come, first-served and often limited to one per teacher.
- Some require dine-in; others work for takeout.
- Verify via restaurant apps/websites, as offers can change.
A huge thank you to all Atlanta educators for shaping the next generation. Grab a well-deserved meal this week—you’ve earned it! If your favorite spot has a deal we missed, drop it in the comments.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more local events and savings.
