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We heard you were a movie lover. That’s good news. The 2025 Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) has begun throughout the city. The multi-weekend event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
2026 Atlanta Film Festival: Everything You Need To Know
Atlanta Film Festival Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Star-Studded Programming and Cultural Milestones
ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF), Georgia’s premier celebration of independent filmmaking, kicks off its landmark 50th anniversary edition today, running in-person from April 23 to May 3, 2026, at the historic Plaza Theatre and Tara Theatre. Virtual screenings of selected films continue through May 11.
This milestone event underscores ATLFF’s role as a cornerstone of independent cinema in the Southeast and an Oscar-qualifying festival that has launched and supported countless careers over five decades. Selected from more than 5,500 submissions, the 2026 lineup features approximately 154 films—including narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and episodic content—representing diverse voices from around the world, with strong representation from Georgia filmmakers.
A Golden Anniversary of Legacy and Innovation
To mark 50 years, ATLFF presents special Legacy Screenings honoring films that shaped Atlanta’s film landscape and the careers of returning talent. Highlights include:
- Daughters of the Dust (1991) with special guest Julie Dash
- The Spectacular Now (2013) with James Ponsoldt
- Great World of Sound (2007) with Craig Zobel
Additional special presentations feature classics like eXistenZ (with Violet Lucca) and Clint Eastwood’s Richard Jewell, alongside marquee titles such as Rose of Nevada, Power Ballad (Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas), I Want Your Sex, Late Fame (Willem Dafoe), and more.40
The festival also spotlights local ties with films shot in Atlanta or created by connected filmmakers, reinforcing ATLFF’s deep roots in the city’s booming creative community.
Creative Conference and Multidisciplinary Events
Now in its 16th year, the ATLFF Creative Conference (presented by CineFi) runs April 28–May 1 with 50 panels, workshops, and presentations. Themes include creative development tools, film finance, and micro-budget filmmaking—tailored to empower emerging and established creators.
A standout event is SOUND + VISION at The Goat Farm Arts Center, an immersive evening blending film, live music, visual arts, VR, and music videos—celebrating the intersection of sonic and visual storytelling.
Star Power and Honors
The festival features high-profile appearances and awards. Hip-hop legend RZA (Wu-Tang Clan founder, 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and director) attends a screening of his film One Spoon of Chocolate at the Tara Theatre on April 24. He walks the red carpet, participates in a Q&A, and receives the Originator Award for his groundbreaking contributions to music, film, and culture.
Other honorees include actress Mckenna Grace and additional talents recognized at events like the IMAGE Awards Gala.
Commitment to Diversity and Discovery
ATLFF continues its strong track record of inclusivity: nearly half the programmed films from submissions were directed by women or gender-nonconforming filmmakers, over half by BIPOC directors, and a significant portion by Georgia talent. The festival remains a vital platform for bold, underrepresented stories.37
Festival badges, individual tickets, and virtual passes are available now via the official ATLFF site and Eventive platform. Merchandise and membership options offer additional ways to support the Atlanta Film Society’s year-round work.
As Executive Director Christopher Escobar noted, the 50th anniversary honors the community that has grown alongside ATLFF while championing the next generation of storytellers. Whether you’re a cinephile, filmmaker, or culture enthusiast, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable blend of nostalgia, innovation, and cinematic excellence in the heart of Atlanta.
For the full schedule, film guide, and tickets, visit atlantafilmfestival.com or the ATLFF 2026 app.
- Submission Process: Films are submitted via FilmFreeway, with deadlines ranging from early (June) to extended (November). Feature films must not be publicly released online or on VOD before the festival, while short films available online are considered case-by-case. Georgia premieres are preferred.
- Ticketing and Membership: General tickets are available online via Eventive, and Atlanta Film Society memberships offer festival access, exclusive screenings, and discounts. For ticketing inquiries, contact boxoffice@atlantafilmfestival.com or call (470) 296-
How To Get A Badge To ATLFF
ATLFF passes & Individual Tickets to each event are available for purchase at atlantafilmfestival.com.
Explore Your Atlanta
There are some good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.
Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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ATLANTA — The Atlanta Film Festival continues to bring out the big guns this week. On Friday, April 24, 2026, hip-hop icon and multifaceted artist RZA will grace the Tara Theatre in Atlanta for a special screening of his directorial film One Spoon of Chocolate.
The event marks a significant moment for the Wu-Tang Clan founder, who continues to expand his influence across music, film, and culture.
RZA, recently announced as a 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee alongside his Wu-Tang Clan brothers, is also an Emmy-nominated writer, producer, and director.
His appearance at the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) event underscores his enduring legacy as a groundbreaking creative force.
Attendees can expect RZA to walk the red carpet prior to the screening, where he will participate in interviews with media.
Following the film, the evening will feature a Q&A session with the director himself, offering audiences rare insights into his creative process and vision for One Spoon of Chocolate.
The night will culminate in a special honor: RZA will receive ATLFF’s Originator Award, which recognizes his pioneering contributions to music, film, and broader cultural impact.
From co-founding one of the most influential hip-hop groups in history to scoring films, directing, and pushing artistic boundaries, RZA has consistently redefined what it means to be a modern Renaissance artist.
The Tara Theatre screening provides Atlanta audiences with a unique opportunity to experience RZA’s directorial work on the big screen while celebrating a career that has influenced generations.
Fans of Wu-Tang Clan, cinephiles, and those inspired by bold storytelling are encouraged to attend what promises to be a memorable evening.
Tickets and further event details are available through the Atlanta Film Festival. This event arrives at a pivotal time for RZA, as anticipation builds around the Wu-Tang Clan’s upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and his continued work in Hollywood.
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ATLANTA, GA (April 20, 2026) — Grand Slam champion, Olympian, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Sloane Stephens has officially joined INTENNSE™ as a Pulse Partner for the upcoming 2026 season, adding one of tennis’s most accomplished and respected figures to the league’s ownership group.
As a Pulse Partner, Stephens will take on an active advisory and ambassadorial role with the Rips, contributing to the team’s identity, culture, and strategic direction.
Her involvement marks another significant step in INTENNSE’s efforts to blend elite on-court competition with a dynamic, personality-driven team model that emphasizes strategy, energy, and fan engagement.
Stephens brings more than a decade of experience at the pinnacle of professional tennis. A former world No. 3 and US Open champion, she has built a career marked by resilience, consistency on the sport’s biggest stages, and a reputation as a thoughtful leader and advocate. Beyond her playing achievements, Stephens is widely recognized for her commitment to mentoring the next generation of athletes through the Sloane Stephens Foundation, which supports young players navigating the unique challenges of life on and off the tour.
Her philosophy aligns closely with INTENNSE’s mission to create new pathways for athletes to grow, compete, and thrive as complete individuals.
The league’s focus on player well-being, mental health, personal development, and long-term purpose beyond the court resonates deeply with Stephens’ own values and work.
“Sloane brings championship experience, professionalism, and a real understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level,” said INTENNSE CEO Charles Allen. “She cares deeply about the future of tennis, about mentoring younger players, and about the mental health of athletes. Values that align with what we are building at INTENNSE.”
Stephens expressed similar enthusiasm about the opportunity.
“I’m so excited to join INTENNSE as a Pulse Partner,” she said. “The league brings together people who truly love tennis and are committed to growing the sport in a fresh, engaging way. I am so inspired by the league’s energy, the players’ competitive spirit, and leadership’s dedication to creating meaningful impact for the players to advance and prioritize mental wellness — all values we both deeply share.”
The addition of Stephens further bolsters INTENNSE’s ownership group, which already features a diverse roster of tennis, sports, and entertainment personalities united by a shared goal of accelerating the sport’s evolution.
As the league prepares for its 2026 season, the emphasis remains on building strong team cultures, delivering distinctive fan experiences, and empowering athletes through ownership stakes, leadership roles, and holistic support systems.
With experienced players and forward-thinking leaders at the helm, INTENNSE continues to position itself as a bold new chapter in professional tennis — one where competition, community, and personal growth intersect. Sloane Stephens’ involvement signals strong momentum for that vision heading into the new season.
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Peachtree City, GA — Biscuit Belly, the popular Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch concept, officially opened its first location in Peachtree City this week with a two-day grand opening celebration at The Avenue Peachtree City.
The restaurant welcomed guests with special events running Thursday, April 23, through Friday, April 24.
Belly Biscuit Opens in Peachtree City: What To Know
The festivities kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday morning in partnership with the local chamber of commerce.
On Friday, visitors enjoyed complimentary drip coffee with any purchase, special giveaways, and a major drawing: the first 50 customers had the chance to win “Free Biscuit Belly for a Year.”
“We’re excited to celebrate our grand opening with the local community and look forward to becoming a go-to breakfast and brunch spot for guests in the area,” said Chad Coulter, CEO and founder of Biscuit Belly. “The Avenue Peachtree City was a natural fit for our continued growth in Georgia, and we value the collaboration bringing this location to life.”
The new 3,364-square-foot restaurant brings Biscuit Belly’s signature “craft casual” brunch experience to the community. The menu highlights creative takes on Southern classics, including biscuits and gravy, inventive biscuit sandwiches, coffee, and breakfast cocktails. Guests can also look forward to the restaurant’s fan-favorite perks:
- Free “bonuts” upon joining the Biscuit Belly loyalty program
- Tasty Tuesdays, where the Basic Biscuit is just $6
- Rotating seasonal menu items and promotions, including an annual peach-topped offering that celebrates Georgia’s signature fruit
Design touches such as a dedicated biscuit-making window and a shimmer wall help create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for casual meals and gatherings.
Johnathan Andrews, Vice President and Senior General Manager at The Avenue Peachtree City, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition.
“As we welcome Biscuit Belly to the center, this grand opening is a great opportunity to bring the Peachtree City community together and celebrate the latest addition to the center,” he said. “Our partnership reflects our continued focus on introducing concepts that enhance the community’s overall experience, creating more reasons for guests to visit and connect with our space.”
This marks Biscuit Belly’s second location in Georgia and adds to The Avenue Peachtree City’s growing lineup of dining destinations, which already includes Beignets and Brews and Heirloom Donuts.
With its blend of Southern comfort food, community-focused events, and thoughtfully designed space, Biscuit Belly is poised to become a new favorite breakfast and brunch destination for Peachtree City residents and visitors alike.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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A three-year drought doesn’t sound like much for some teams, but for the Atlanta Hawks, it’s felt like an eternity.
On Thursday night, the Hawks face the New York Knicks in a game 3 showdown for the lead in their best-of-seven playoff matchup.
“That’s something you always want to do when you’re on the road in your first two games; you always try to get one,” Hawks star forward Jalen Johnson said, referring to the Hawks’ game two win at Madison Square Garden. “Coming back home, knowing you’re playing in front of the fans and playing in an arena you’re comfortable in, it’s exciting.”
Atlanta Hawks host playoff game for first time in 2023
Hawks guard CJ McCollum, “It’s going to be a great environment. I’m sure the city’’ be excited. We’re excited to be home and … looking forward to competing against a good team at home.”
McCollum played the spoiler on Monday night, scoring 32 points to help the Hawks rally for a stunning 107-106 victory that tied the Eastern Conference first-round series at one game apiece.
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Looking for a satisfying midday meal that won’t break the bank? El Super Pan has you covered with its convenient three-course prix fixe lunch, available Monday through Friday from 11am to 3pm for just $19.
This well-priced lunch special brings together fresh, house-made Cuban-inspired dishes served with the warm, energetic hospitality that has become a hallmark of the restaurant.
Every item is prepared daily, ensuring guests enjoy bright flavors and quality ingredients in every bite.
The Prix Fixe Lunch Menu
The three-course experience gives diners plenty of delicious options to mix and match:
First Course (choose one):
- Soup of the Day
- Tropical Salad
- Two Empanadas
Second Course (choose one):
- Rice & Bean Bowl (with your choice of protein: sofrito chicken, roasted pork, or ropa vieja)
- ½ Cuban Sandwich (served with tropical chips)
- ½ Media Noche Sandwich (served with tropical chips)
Third Course (choose one):
- Cinnamon Churros
- Guava & Cheese Pastelito
With so many combinations available, guests can enjoy a complete, well-rounded meal—whether they’re craving something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting—without spending a fortune.
Daily Happy Hour: 4–7pm
After the lunch rush, El Super Pan keeps the good times rolling with a straightforward and affordable happy hour every day from 4pm to 7pm.
- $5 Beers
- $6 Rum Punch
Note: Happy hour is not available on game days.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick business lunch, a relaxed meal with friends, or a post-work drink, El Super Pan delivers generous portions of Cuban flavor at prices that make it easy to visit often.
The next time you’re craving empanadas, a classic Cuban sandwich, or sweet churros to finish, swing by during lunch hours for the full prix fixe experience or drop in for happy hour to unwind with a cold beer or fruity rum punch.
Fresh food, friendly service, and great value—exactly what a neighborhood spot should be. Buen provecho!
More Food Coverage:
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Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. appears set to avoid a criminal conviction related to his February 2026 arrest, according to breaking reports.
The 22-year-old pass rusher is expected to have all pending charges dismissed if he successfully completes a Florida state program involving therapy and six months of staying out of legal trouble.
The victim in the case, WNBA player Rickea Jackson, and local police have reportedly agreed to the resolution, per Falcons beat reporter Andy Slater and attorney Yale Sanford.
The news, shared widely on social media Thursday afternoon, marks a major development in a case that has drawn intense scrutiny since Pearce’s arrest on Feb. 7 in Doral, Florida.
At the time, police alleged that Pearce—driving a Lamborghini SUV—followed his ex-girlfriend Jackson, attempted to enter her vehicle at a stop, and then intentionally rammed her car multiple times as she tried to reach the Doral Police Department for safety.
Officers said Pearce struck a police vehicle while attempting to flee and resisted arrest. Jackson later told authorities she feared for her life, detailing prior threats, verbal and physical abuse, and obsessive behavior during their three-year relationship. She was granted a temporary protective order shortly after the incident.1617
Initially, Pearce faced five felony charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (using his vehicle), aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police, and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer.
Prosecutors later dropped the battery-on-officer count after reviewing body-camera footage and reduced the stalking charge to a misdemeanor, leaving him with three felonies and one misdemeanor.
A status hearing and docket sounding had been scheduled for late April, with a potential trial looming in early May.
The proposed resolution—a pretrial diversion-style program common in Florida for eligible first-time offenders—would require Pearce to undergo therapy and demonstrate good behavior for six months.
Upon successful completion, all charges would be dismissed, leaving him without a conviction on his record. Attorney Yale Sanford, representing Pearce, confirmed the victim’s and police department’s agreement to the terms.
Pearce, a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of the University of Georgia (or similar program based on his rookie impact), emerged as one of the league’s brightest young pass rushers last season. He led the Falcons with 10.5 sacks and was a finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
However, he has not participated in the team’s voluntary offseason workouts while the legal matter remained unresolved, as confirmed by head coach Kevin Stefanski earlier in April.
The Falcons organization has not yet issued an official statement on Thursday’s update. NFL teams routinely monitor legal proceedings involving players under the league’s personal conduct policy, which could still impose its own discipline separate from the criminal case.
Public reaction to the potential dismissal has been swift and polarized on social media.
While some fans expressed relief that a key defensive piece could return to the field without further disruption, others voiced strong criticism, arguing the outcome reflects unequal treatment for high-profile athletes compared to ordinary citizens facing similar domestic violence or assault allegations.
Comments ranged from praise for Pearce’s legal team to concerns about accountability in high-stakes relationships involving professional athletes.
This resolution, if finalized, would allow Pearce to focus fully on football ahead of the 2026 season. The Falcons, coming off a competitive 2025 campaign, are banking on his continued development as a cornerstone of their pass rush.
For Jackson, the WNBA standout with the Los Angeles Sparks, the agreement reportedly provides closure while prioritizing her safety through the agreed-upon conditions.
As details continue to emerge, the case underscores ongoing conversations in sports about domestic violence, athlete accountability, and the role of diversion programs in the justice system.
Pearce’s legal team maintains his innocence throughout the proceedings, and the outcome remains contingent on his full compliance with the program’s terms. Further updates are expected as the case progresses through the Miami-Dade court system in the coming weeks.
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The Buckhead steakhouse trend contain delicious fashion. New Atlanta restaurant Clark’s Steakhouse officially opens its doors today, Thursday, April 23, 2026.
The eatery is welcoming guests to its prime location on the ground floor of the 2827 Peachtree building in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood (specifically the Garden Hills area, near Fellini’s).
Clark’s Steakhouse Opens Its Doors in Buckhead
The new steakhouse seamlessly marries the sophisticated grandeur of a classic New York steakhouse with the warm, inviting spirit of the American South—a fusion evident in its design, menu, and overall hospitality.
Owner Rich Clark, the force behind the popular C&S Seafood and Oyster Bar restaurants across metro Atlanta, has long dreamed of launching his own steakhouse. “A steakhouse has always been in the back of my mind,” Clark shared. “I never wanted to force it; I was waiting for the right space and the right moment to do it justice. When this opportunity came along, it just clicked and felt like the natural next step. This has been a passion project through and through, and finally bringing it to life has been incredibly rewarding.”
The 6,000-square-foot space offers 170 seats, including an intimate 18-seat private dining room known as The Policy Room.
This elegant venue is designed to transition effortlessly from business lunches to celebratory dinners. Anchoring the main dining area is a striking 30-seat racetrack-style bar featuring rich walnut finishes and plush burgundy velvet barstools.
Design firm Z-Space helped Clark realize his vision, drawing inspiration from New York and Charleston. The moody interiors radiate understated luxury through rich wood millwork, custom terrazzo flooring, and Scalamandré velvet accents.
Layered textures and softly dimmed lighting foster a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for lingering over a meal
To ground the space in its Atlanta roots, the art collection includes framed portraits of influential local figures such as Ted Turner, John Portman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Andrew Young.
In the kitchen, Executive Chef Zan Malik leads a team focused on live-fire cooking.
What’s on the Menu at Clark’s Steakhouse?
The menu highlights premium Meat by Linz prime steak cuts—including wet- and dry-aged options, Japanese and local Wagyu—alongside Clark’s signature 22 oz. wet-aged LHA reserve prime lollipop ribeye.
For those seeking wild game, offerings include Venison Chop, Duck Breast, and Quail Sausage from the Meat and Cheese Boards. True to Clark’s seafood heritage, the menu also features standout dishes like Salmon Wellington and Wood-Grilled Branzino.
Shareable Southern-inspired sides such as Savory Whipped Sweet Potato, Pommes Anna, and Mile High Fries complete the savory selections, while desserts deliver a nostalgic close, headlined by a Coca-Cola German Chocolate Cake inspired by Clark’s grandmother’s recipe.
The beverage program stands out as a particular strength.
Certified Sommelier and Director of Operations and Beverage Alexa Robertson curated a robust 550-selection wine list emphasizing terroir-driven wines from iconic regions including Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône, Napa, and Italy.
Bordeaux forms a centerpiece, offering one of Atlanta’s most expansive selections, while higher-acid wines from Burgundy and the Loire Valley pair beautifully with seafood.
Italian varietals shine with red meats, and a thoughtfully chosen Champagne and sparkling program suits celebrations or lighter starts to the meal.
“When I first began working for Rich, one of the things I most admired was his wine list,” Robertson said. “Building the wine list for this steakhouse has been especially fulfilling. It’s shaped by travel and research, bringing together timeless classics alongside new, exciting selections for our wine-loving guests.”
What’s To Drink at Clark’s Steakhouse?
Complementing the wine is a focused cocktail program featuring signature and seasonal creations.
Standouts include the Clark’s Martini, Haute Cosmo, and the Aztec Ember Old Fashioned (made with Don Fulano Añejo Tequila, Mezcal Rinse, Agave Nectar, Mole & Orange Bitters).
Current seasonal options like the Sauna Culture (Breckenridge Aquavit, Mixed Berry Cordial, St. Germain, Chambord, Lemon, and Pine Soda) rotate throughout the year, with non-alcoholic mocktails available as well.
Clark emphasized the care taken in every detail: “We really took our time with this, traveling to places like Texas, New York, Charleston, and London, seeing what resonated and what didn’t. It was important to me that we got it right, not just in the kitchen but in the entire atmosphere. At the end of the day, we wanted to build a steakhouse that feels elevated and transportive, like you’ve stepped out of Atlanta for the night. I’m excited for people to come in and experience it for themselves.”
Clark’s Steakhouse will serve dinner Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Lunch service begins Monday, May 4, and will run Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
For menus, reservations, and the latest updates, visit www.clarkssteak.com.
Final Word
This long-awaited addition promises to elevate Atlanta’s steakhouse scene with its thoughtful blend of prime cuts, Southern soul, and world-class wines in a setting designed for memorable evenings.
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If you stepped outside in metro Atlanta on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, you likely noticed it: a strange haze blanketing the skyline, a faint but unmistakable smell of burning wood hanging in the air, and reduced visibility even on what should have been a clear spring day.
The culprit isn’t local pollution or fog—it’s smoke drifting hundreds of miles north from raging wildfires in south Georgia.
Is There Smoke in Atlanta Today?
Georgia is in the grip of severe drought, with more than 98% of the state under moderate to exceptional drought conditions.
Dry vegetation, low humidity, and windy weather have turned the region into a tinderbox. In just three days, nearly 100 fires ignited across south Georgia.
The largest and most destructive is the Clinch County Fire (also known as the Pineland Road Fire) near the Okefenokee Swamp, roughly 10 miles north of the Georgia-Florida line. As of April 22, it had scorched more than 16,000 acres and was only about 10% contained.
The Fires Burning in South Georgia
Additional fires in the area have burned thousands more acres, forcing evacuations, school closures, and road shutdowns in affected counties.
Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for more than 90 counties in south Georgia, mobilizing the Georgia Forestry Commission and emergency responders.
Similar blazes in northern Florida’s Big Bend region are also contributing to the regional smoke plume.
How Smoke Travels Hundreds of Miles to Atlanta
Wildfire smoke doesn’t stay put. Fine particles (PM2.5) and gases rise into the atmosphere and get carried by prevailing winds. In this case, a high-pressure system over the western Atlantic is driving southeasterly winds at lower levels, creating a “conveyor belt” that slowly pushes smoke northward.
Upper-level winds move west to east, helping spread the plume across the region. Southwest winds have limited the worst of the influx into metro Atlanta, but enough smoke has still arrived to create visible haze and that telltale burning odor.
The smoke has reached as far as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where it has reduced visibility for travelers. Conditions are even more pronounced in middle and south Georgia.YLbrV“LARGE”
Meteorologists expect hazy, smoky skies to persist through at least Friday, April 25.
A better chance for relief arrives Saturday when scattered rain is forecast to help wash the smoke out of the air and dampen fire danger—though the Clinch County Fire will likely continue burning until more significant rainfall or containment efforts succeed.
Air Quality and Health Concerns
Wildfire smoke contains a mix of fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and toxic chemicals that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Even moderate levels can trigger coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and headaches.
People in sensitive groups—children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, or chronic conditions—are at higher risk.
Metro Atlanta is currently under Code Yellow (moderate) air quality conditions, with some pockets reaching unhealthy levels for sensitive groups.
Air quality is significantly worse closer to the fires. Check real-time conditions at AirNow.gov or local forecasts before heading outdoors.
Safety Tips: Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Smoke Inhalation
Here’s how to stay safe while the smoke lingers:
- Stay indoors as much as possible. Keep windows and doors tightly closed. If you have central air or heat, set it to “recirculate” mode and change or clean filters regularly to avoid pulling in outdoor smoke.
- Create a “clean room.” Pick one room in your home (ideally a bedroom), close it off from the rest of the house, and run a portable air cleaner or a DIY box-fan filter (MERV 13 or higher). Run it on high when you’re in the room. Never leave a box-fan filter unattended.
- Limit outdoor activity. Avoid strenuous exercise, yard work, or prolonged time outside when it looks or smells smoky. If you must go out, shorten your time and take frequent breaks indoors.
- Wear proper protection. If you have to be outside, use a NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator that fits snugly against your face. Cloth masks, surgical masks, or bandanas do not provide adequate protection against fine smoke particles.
- Monitor symptoms. Watch for coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or irritated eyes. Have rescue inhalers or medications ready if you have respiratory conditions. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
- Protect vulnerable groups and pets. Children and pets should stay inside. Keep pets indoors and provide fresh water. Consider bringing sensitive family members to a community building or public space with better air filtration if your home becomes too smoky.
- Avoid adding to indoor pollution. Don’t burn candles, use gas stoves, or smoke tobacco indoors. Vacuum with a HEPA filter if needed, but skip sweeping or dusting that could stir up particles.
These steps come straight from CDC and EPA guidance for wildfire smoke events and can dramatically reduce your exposure.
Looking Ahead
Firefighters continue battling the flames under challenging drought conditions, while state officials urge residents in fire-prone areas to heed burn bans and evacuation orders.
For the rest of us in metro Atlanta, the haze is an unwelcome reminder of how interconnected our region’s air really is.
Stay informed via local news, the Georgia Forestry Commission, or AirNow.gov. With rain on the horizon, clearer skies—and safer breathing—should return soon. In the meantime, take simple precautions and look out for neighbors who may need extra help.
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ATLANTA — Grocery shoppers in the Atlanta area can now sink their teeth into a smoky new favorite: Publix new brisket subs.
The popular grocery chain has rolled out a lineup of brisket-inspired deli items, including three new Pub Subs and one stacked sandwich, marking what the company calls “a new era of flavor” at the deli counter.
Publix New Brisket Subs Absolutely Slap
Announced earlier this month, the brisket options feature tender, hickory-smoked beef brisket seasoned with Texas-inspired spices and smoked low and slow over real hardwood.
Each item includes a signature Sweet & Spicy BBQ sauce that adds a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and mild heat.
Publix New Brisket Subs: Here’s what Atlanta customers can order:
- Publix Southern-Style Brisket Sub: Described as the ultimate comfort food, this sub piles eight ounces of smoked brisket on a fresh sub roll with Publix cheddar cheese, dill pickles, crispy fried onions, and that Sweet & Spicy BBQ sauce. It’s a Southern twist perfect for fans of classic barbecue flavors.35
- Publix Spicy Brisket Sub: For those who like a kick, this one layers the brisket with Boar’s Head Bold 3-Pepper Colby Jack cheese, sliced jalapeños, crispy Publix fried onions, and the Sweet & Spicy BBQ sauce on a sub roll. Expect bold heat and satisfying crunch.
- Publix Brisket, Lettuce and Tomato Sub: A fresher, more classic take that pairs the smoky brisket with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and the Sweet & Spicy BBQ sauce. It’s a lighter option that still delivers on barbecue satisfaction.
- Publix Stacked Brisket and Brioche Sandwich: This hearty sandwich features a full half-pound of tender smoked brisket stacked high on a soft, buttery brioche roll and drizzled with Sweet & Spicy BBQ sauce. It’s the richest, most indulgent option in the new lineup.
The brisket itself comes from a Texas-based supplier and is pre-cooked, thawed, and finished in-store.
Whole subs typically run around $15–16 (prices vary slightly by location and any current promotions), while the sandwich starts a bit higher. Half subs are also available, and customers can order online via the Publix app or website for quick in-store pickup at Atlanta-area locations.Local reaction has been mixed but excited, with some Atlanta barbecue lovers eager to try grocery-store brisket done Publix-style, while others are curious to see how it stacks up against traditional smoked meats from the city’s renowned pitmasters.
Early online chatter suggests the Southern-Style and Spicy versions are generating the most buzz.
Publix, which operates dozens of stores across metro Atlanta, says the new items are available now at participating deli counters.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch after work, feeding the family, or tailgating on a weekend, these brisket creations offer a hearty, flavorful addition to the chain’s famous Pub Sub lineup.
Have you tried the new brisket subs yet? Head to your nearest Publix deli and let us know which one is your favorite in the comments. For the latest Atlanta food news and grocery updates, stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com.
Prices and availability may vary by store. Check your local Publix for details and current promotions.
