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Well, look at that: Alpharetta, a thriving suburb just north of Atlanta, has claimed the top spot on CoworkingCafe’s 2026 list of best small U.S. cities (under 250,000 population) for big career opportunities.
Home to major employers like Microsoft and Equifax, along with other tech and finance giants such as ADP, Morgan Stanley, Fiserv, and Verizon, the city boasts an impressive median household income of $173,310 and an unemployment rate hovering around 2%.
Alpharetta #1 for Best Small Cities
This combination of high-paying jobs in tech and finance, a dense base of employers, and strong quality-of-life factors has positioned Alpharetta as a standout “career powerhouse.”
Read: The best places to eat in Alpharetta
Residents enjoy stability and professional growth without the intensity of a major urban center—offering proximity to Atlanta’s amenities while avoiding much of the downtown chaos, congestion, and higher cost pressures.
Atlantic Station Tops Niche’s Best Places to Live
Meanwhile, in the heart of Atlanta, the mixed-use neighborhood of Atlantic Station has earned the No. 1 ranking on Niche.com’s 2026 Best Places to Live in America list.
Built on the site of a former steel mill, this vibrant midtown development delivers a walkable, live-work-play environment with strong marks in nightlife, health and fitness, commuting, and appeal to young professionals and families.
It earns an A+ overall grade, with high ratings for public schools, diversity, outdoor activities, and its dense, urban-yet-accessible feel. Median household incomes here exceed $100,000, reflecting its draw for upwardly mobile residents.
Atlantic Station’s design emphasizes convenience: residents can often get by without a car, thanks to abundant bars, restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and retail. The neighborhood has celebrated its 20th anniversary recently, attracting millions of visitors annually alongside its roughly 3,000–6,000 residents.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Recent retail challenges, including the closure of the longtime Publix grocery store (and pharmacy) in late 2025, have left some locals frustrated.
Other store departures have prompted complaints that the area feels increasingly “soulless,” overly pricey, and lacking in everyday essentials despite its upscale vibe. Parking hassles and a string of closures have fueled online discussions questioning whether the shine is fading on this once-celebrated development.
The Boom—and Its Trade-offs—in Atlanta’s Hot Spots
Atlanta’s broader metro boom has elevated both Alpharetta and neighborhoods like Atlantic Station, drawing families, young professionals, and high-earners seeking a blend of opportunity and lifestyle.
In Alpharetta, spots like the upscale mixed-use development Avalon are frequently praised as ideal for families—offering walkable shopping, dining, trails, parks, and a polished suburban atmosphere with top-rated schools.
Yet critics and long-time residents point to growing pains that come with success. Rapid development has brought heavier traffic, especially around popular areas and during events. Housing prices have skyrocketed, with million-dollar homes becoming common and inventory tight.
Some locals lament overdevelopment, loss of green space, parking struggles, and a sense that the area’s charm is being traded for growth and prestige. Similar sentiments echo in discussions about whether the suburban ideal still holds when everyday conveniences feel strained.
keypointhomesgroup.comAtlantic Station faces its own version of these tensions: while lauded for nightlife and fitness options that appeal to young pros, the high cost of living and recent retail shake-ups have some wondering if the “vibrant” label masks underlying issues in sustainability and livability.Balancing Paradise and RealityIn the end, both Alpharetta and Atlantic Station exemplify Atlanta’s appeal as a rising star—offering career prospects, modern amenities, and a Southern-infused quality of life that many find hard to beat. Alpharetta delivers suburban stability with big-city job access; Atlantic Station provides urban energy in a compact, walkable package.But as with any boomtown hotspot, the reality includes trade-offs: traffic and growth pressures in the suburbs, or cost and retail flux in the city. For families eyeing Avalon-style living or young professionals chasing midtown nightlife, these areas remain magnetic.
Prospective residents would do well to visit during peak hours, weigh the numbers against their priorities, and consider whether the hype aligns with daily life in a rapidly evolving Atlanta metro.
Whether you’re chasing six-figure tech salaries or a walkable nightlife scene, these rankings highlight why the region continues to attract newcomers—even as locals navigate the fine line between paradise and its price tag.
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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ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves are wheeling and dealing after launching their own network. The Braves and FuboTV have reached a multi-year distribution agreement that will make BravesVision available to Fubo subscribers starting on the Braves’ Opening Day, Friday, March 27, 2026.
READ: How to watch the Braves game: Streaming, TV options
Under the deal, Braves games will be accessible to subscribers of Fubo’s base plan throughout the six-state Braves Country territory, which includes Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and western North Carolina.BravesVision, announced last month, will produce more than 140 games during the 2026 regular season, along with extensive pre-game and post-game programming.
The new pre-game show, “Braves On Deck,” and post-game show, “Braves Postgame,” will deliver news, analysis, and an inside look at the game-day experience at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.
To mark Opening Day, “Braves On Deck” will air at 6 p.m. ET, ahead of the Braves’ home opener against the Kansas City Royals.
“Fubo’s sports offering includes tens of thousands of live sporting events annually, with many streaming in 4K, and more regional sports networks in its base package at the lowest cost compared to other streaming options,” the release noted.
Fubo also carries extensive Major League Baseball coverage, including MLB.TV, MLB Network, MLB Strike Zone, regional sports and broadcast networks, local broadcast networks, and national sports networks ESPN and FS1.
In addition to its robust sports lineup, Fubo streams popular live entertainment and news programming and features more than 40,000 TV shows and movies on-demand each month.
The partnership marks another step in the evolving media landscape for regional sports content, as more fans turn to streaming platforms for live sports access.
Final Word
Braves fans in the designated territory will now have seamless access to the team’s dedicated channel without needing a traditional cable or satellite subscription.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
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Gorman & Company, a Wisconsin-based developer specializing in affordable housing, is set to break ground on The Fifty-Five, a new 60-unit mixed-income, mixed-use apartment community in East Point, Georgia.
The project is located at 2855 East Point Street, just one block west of the East Point MARTA station, in the city’s historic downtown area (between Dorsey and Thompson streets).
The Fifty-Five Building Opening in East Point
It emphasizes transit-oriented development, placing residents within easy walking distance of MARTA for convenient access to downtown Atlanta and the airport.
The Fifty-Five will consist of a four-story, approximately 77,000-square-foot building featuring one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
All 60 units will be reserved for households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI), providing much-needed affordable and workforce housing options.
The mixed-use design includes street-level retail space, along with resident amenities such as a fitness center, computer lab, community spaces, and outdoor gathering areas to foster neighborhood connections.
Gorman & Company will handle the design, development, construction, and ongoing management of the project.
The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Construction is expected to proceed with completion targeted for fall 2027 and leasing to begin around that time.
Joel Reed, Gorman’s Southeast market president, highlighted the project’s community focus: “The Fifty-Five represents the kind of intentional, community-driven development that makes a lasting impact. By creating new affordable housing in a multi-modal location, we’re helping ensure East Point residents can remain in the community they call home while continuing to thrive.”
This development aligns with East Point’s efforts to promote transit-oriented affordable housing and inject economic vitality into its downtown.
It adds to Gorman & Company’s growing portfolio of Atlanta-area projects, which includes recent completions and ongoing initiatives tied to MARTA stations and historic sites.
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Filmmaker and billionaire Tyler Perry attempted to provide direct financial support to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents working without pay at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, but federal regulations prevented him from doing so.
On March 26, 2026, Perry visited the busy airport amid an ongoing partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Tyler Perry Tries To Pay TSA Workers — and Is Thwarted
Many TSA agents have gone without paychecks since mid-February, yet they continue to perform critical security screening duties to keep air travel moving. The funding lapse has also contributed to longer security lines at some airports.
According to multiple reports, Perry arrived prepared to distribute cash directly to the agents as a gesture of appreciation and assistance. However, Department of Homeland Security rules prohibit TSA employees from accepting monetary gifts—or equivalents such as gift cards—while on duty.
These federal ethics regulations aim to avoid any appearance of conflicts of interest or undue influence, particularly in a workplace setting like airport security checkpoints.
Perry ultimately did not hand out the money. Instead, he reportedly spent time talking with the agents, shaking hands, and thanking them for their dedication during the difficult period. Sources indicated that the high-profile visit itself helped boost morale among the workers.
Aaron Baker, president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), noted that while direct cash gifts to individual agents on the job are restricted, unions representing TSA officers face fewer limitations. Unions can accept donations and distribute them to members in accordance with guidelines, offering a potential alternative channel for support.
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No matter if you’re in the mood for a relaxing glass of wine, a craft cocktail, a local beer, or a lively sports atmosphere, the bars of Sandy Springs have you covered. The Sandy Springs restaurant scene continues to mature like elegant grapes on a vine. But where can you get a drink?!
Best Places To Drink in Sandy Springs
This article will show you some of the best bars in Sandy Springs.
North River Tavern
8879 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30350 (770) 552-8784
Check Visit Sandy Springs for current details (multiple sports-friendly spots along Roswell Rd). For a straightforward spot to catch games or unwind with friends, options like North River Tavern or The Chapter Room provide lively atmospheres, drink specials, multiple screens, and solid bar food. These neighborhood taverns round out the casual side of Sandy Springs nightlife.
The Select Restaurant & Bar
6405 Blue Stone Rd Suite 200, Sandy Springs, GA 30328| (770) 637-2240
The Select is a cozy and intimate wine bar that offers an extensive wine list from around the world, as well as craft beers, cocktails, and light bites. They have a knowledgeable and friendly staff who can help you select the perfect drink for your tastes.
Review: Fantastic selection of wines and spirits, great prices, and friendly staff. Highly recommend!
Hudson Grille Sandy Springs
6317 Roswell Rd NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 554-8282
Hudson Grille Sandy Springs is a sports bar that offers a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or watching the game. They have an extensive menu of pub fare, including burgers, wings, and nachos, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. They also have plenty of TVs to watch
your favorite sports teams.
Review: Great sports bar with a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent drink specials.
Highly recommend for game day!The Ship and Anchor Pub
5975 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 256-3550)
The Ship and Anchor Pub is a British-style pub that offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and outdoor patio. They have a selection of beers on tap and in bottles, as well as a variety of cocktails and spirits. They also offer traditional British pub fare, such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and
bangers and mash.
Review: Authentic British pub with great food, drinks, and friendly staff. A perfect spot for
a casual night out with friends.Battle and Brew
5920 Roswell Rd, Ste A-120, Sandy Springs, GA 30328| (678) 560-1500)
Battle and Brew is a unique bar and restaurant that combines gaming with drinks and food. They have a large selection of video games, board games, and tabletop games available for patrons to play while enjoying their drinks and food. They also have a menu of pub fare and a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
Review: Awesome gaming bar with a wide selection of games, great food, and drinks.
The staff is super friendly and welcoming, making for a fun and unique experience.Final Sip
Grabbing a drink in Atlanta or its suburbs has never been easier. There are so many cool places to check out, from fine dining in Alpharetta to the best restaurants on the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
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Sandy Springs, GA — The City of Sandy Springs has announced the launch of its 2026 Eco-Stewardship Program, an immersive, hands-on environmental education initiative designed to empower residents to restore and protect local ecosystems.
Now in its third session, the program will run from April 25 through December 18, 2026, with sessions held one Saturday each month.
Participants will gain practical skills in urban forest management, including identifying native plants, removing invasive species, and contributing to forest restoration efforts.
The program is led by master naturalist Kathryn Kolb of EcoAddendum, through a partnership that brings expert-led stewardship training directly into Sandy Springs’ urban forests and green spaces.
“[This program] is designed to engage community members in restoring and protecting local ecosystems,” city officials stated in the announcement on March 23, 2026.
The Eco-Stewardship Program aims to turn participants into active environmental leaders who can help maintain the health of the city’s natural areas for years to come. Registration details and additional information are available on the City of Sandy Springs website.
This initiative reflects Sandy Springs’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community involvement in preserving its green spaces.
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Atlanta, Ga. — March 27, 2026 — Georgia is enduring its most severe drought in nearly 10 years, with the latest U.S. Drought Monitor showing approximately 80% of the state locked in at least severe drought (D2 or worse).
According to the map released Thursday by the National Drought Mitigation Center and partners, data valid as of March 24, 2026, reveals stark conditions: roughly 96% of Georgia is experiencing some level of drought or abnormally dry conditions.
Georgia Drought Hits Severe Conditions
Severe drought covers about 38% of the state, extreme drought (D3) affects another 35–42%, and exceptional drought (D4) — the highest category — grips nearly 8%, particularly in southern counties.
The National Weather Service in Atlanta has highlighted the historic nature of the situation.
In a recent drought information statement, forecasters noted that “Coverage of D2-D4 drought is at its highest in Georgia since 2011,” with hydrologic and fire weather impacts increasing statewide despite occasional light rains.
This marks the worst statewide drought coverage in over a decade, surpassing recent dry spells and echoing the intensity last seen in the fall of 2011.
In south Georgia, conditions have deteriorated further. Lowndes County and several southeastern counties are now in exceptional (D4) drought — the worst possible category on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale.
Is Georgia in a Drought?
The official definition describes D4 as involving “Exceptional and widespread crop/pasture losses; shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells creating water emergencies.”
Local officials are already seeing the effects. Lowndes County fire crews have responded to multiple grass fires and wildfires since February, prompting ongoing burn restrictions.
EMA Lowndes Public Information Officer Megan Barwick urged residents: “Please hold off on any outdoor burning until the restriction is officially lifted. These conditions create a high risk of fires spreading quickly, putting our community and first responders in danger.”
Across north and central Georgia, rivers, streams, and lakes remain at critically low levels, while fire danger stays elevated.
The National Weather Service has warned that without a sustained active weather pattern bringing meaningful rainfall, the drought is likely to persist through the spring months.
Agricultural impacts are currently limited as the growing season is just beginning, but experts caution that continued dryness could soon stress crops, pastures, and water supplies for farms and communities.
Streamflows are below normal in many areas, and long-term hydrologic drought effects are already evident.
The broader Southeast region is feeling similar strain, with abnormally dry conditions and drought covering nearly all of the area as of mid-January updates, though some localized improvements have occurred in parts of Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas in recent weeks.
Residents and officials are being advised to conserve water, monitor local burn bans, and stay informed through county emergency management alerts.
The seasonal drought outlook from the Climate Prediction Center suggests that while some coastal improvement is possible later in spring, much of Georgia’s interior faces continued elevated drought risk into April and beyond.
As Georgia enters what could be a challenging spring, the message from forecasters remains clear: significant, widespread rain is needed to ease the grip of this record-setting dry spell.
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Car enthusiasts, families, and community members are invited to rev up their Sunday with an afternoon dedicated to classic cars, custom builds, and good vibes.
The Classic Kingz Car Show is making a comeback at The Shoppes at Webb Gin on Sunday, May 17th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Classic Kingz Car Show: A Day of Automotive Excitement
Hosted in partnership with Classic Car Kingz, the event will transform the parking lot next to Ted’s Montana Grill (1250 Scenic Hwy S, Lawrenceville, GA 30045) into a vibrant showcase of classic, custom, and specialty vehicles.
Attendees can expect a lively, family-friendly atmosphere complete with live music, local food vendors, and plenty of opportunities to admire impressive rides up close.
Admission is free for spectators, making it an accessible outing for everyone.
Car owners interested in displaying their vehicles can register for a $25 fee (cash only), with check-in starting at 10:00 AM. Standout entries will compete for trophy awards in various categories.
“We’re excited to bring the community together again for a day that celebrates car culture, creativity, and connection,” said David Parris, President of Classic Car Kingz. “This event continues to grow each year, and we’re looking forward to showcasing some incredible vehicles while creating a fun, high-energy experience for everyone who attends.”
The Classic Kingz Car Show has become a recurring favorite in the Gwinnett County area, drawing crowds with its welcoming vibe that appeals to hardcore gearheads and casual fans alike.
Whether you’re there to show off a prized classic, hunt for your next project, grab a bite from local vendors, or simply enjoy live music under the Georgia sun, the event promises something for all ages.
Mark your calendars and bring the whole family (and your camera) to The Shoppes at Webb Gin on May 17th for a memorable day of chrome, horsepower, and community spirit.
For the latest updates, check the Classic Car Kingz social media pages or the shopping center’s event listings.
Final Word
As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.
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ATLANTA, Ga. — A federal judge has sided with Aisha “Pinky” Cole, the founder of the popular Atlanta-based vegan restaurant chain Slutty Vegan, ordering the return of an investment property that was seized by a creditor shortly after she filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Cole filed for bankruptcy protection in February 2026 amid significant financial challenges. Court records indicate she owes approximately $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration for a COVID-19-related loan and another $192,000 in state taxes to the Georgia Department of Revenue.
According to court filings, Cole had planned to rent out the six-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Loganville (sometimes referred to in reports as the Lawrenceville area) starting in April to generate income toward paying down her debts.
However, on February 20, 2026, Guardian Asset Management—a property management and creditor-related firm—seized the property.
They changed the locks and placed a notice on a street-facing window stating that the home could not be entered until it was offered for sale.
Cole’s legal team promptly contacted Guardian, notifying them that the seizure violated the automatic stay—a key protection under federal bankruptcy law that halts most collection actions and creditor interference once a bankruptcy petition is filed.
When Guardian did not respond, Cole filed an emergency motion seeking the return of the property.
On Thursday, March 26, 2026, a federal judge ruled that Guardian had indeed violated the automatic stay.
One of Cole’s attorneys told Atlanta News First that the court ordered the property returned to Cole and awarded her attorney’s fees and other costs, citing “Guardian’s utter disregard of bankruptcy protections.
This latest development comes after Cole had already navigated prior financial restructuring.
In 2025, she entered an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors—a state-level process in which a company’s assets are transferred to a third-party administrator for sale to satisfy debts.
That process briefly resulted in Cole losing ownership of the Slutty Vegan brand before regaining control.0
Pinky Cole has become a prominent figure in Atlanta’s business and entertainment scenes. Known for her bold branding and plant-based “slutty” burgers and other menu items that have drawn long lines and celebrity attention, she is set to join the cast of the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, which premieres on April 5.0
The case highlights the protections afforded to debtors under bankruptcy law and the potential consequences for creditors who act without court approval during an active filing.
Cole’s team has emphasized that the Loganville property served as an investment intended to help stabilize her finances rather than her primary residence.
As the bankruptcy proceedings continue, this ruling provides Cole with immediate relief regarding the seized asset while she works through her broader financial reorganization.
This article is based on reporting from Atlanta News First and cross-referenced local coverage. Court proceedings can evolve, and additional details may emerge as the case progresses.
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Atlanta is gearing up for a major hometown celebration on Saturday, April 4, 2026 — better known as 404 Day, a nod to the city’s iconic area code.
Rap legend Big Boi, one half of the groundbreaking duo OutKast, will headline a free all-day block party that blends music, food, and local culture in true ATL fashion.
The event, officially titled “Impossible x Big Boi: 404 Taste the Block”, is a collaboration between Big Boi and Impossible Foods. It takes over Smorgasburg Atlanta at 140 Forsyth St SW in downtown Atlanta from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The free, family-friendly block party promises throwback 2000s ATL hip-hop vibes, live performances, and a celebration of everything that makes the city special.
What to Expect at the Block Party
- Live Music & Performances: Big Boi will deliver a live performance, bringing hits from OutKast and his solo catalog to the stage. DJs will keep the energy high with beats throughout the day, and there’s a special “high-energy spirit performance” scheduled for 4:04 p.m. — perfectly timed for 404 Day.
- Food & Vendors: More than 20 vendors will serve up local favorites, many with an Impossible twist using plant-based ingredients. The highlight? An exclusive “Big Boi Burger” available from the Impossible food truck. Smorgasburg’s market-style setup turns the event into a food-lover’s dream with diverse eats reflecting Atlanta’s vibrant culinary scene.
- Interactive Experiences & Local Culture: Attendees can enjoy festival-style photo ops, a Pop-a-Shot basketball challenge, custom merch, barbershop trims, and other surprises. The event highlights Atlanta’s rich hip-hop heritage, community spirit, and creative energy in a welcoming outdoor setting.
Why It Matters
404 Day has grown into a beloved annual tradition in Atlanta, showcasing the city’s pride in its 404 area code and its outsized influence on music, culture, and innovation.
Partnering with Impossible Foods adds a modern, plant-based angle while keeping the focus on hometown pride and accessibility — the entire event is free to attend (RSVP recommended via the Partiful page for smooth entry).
Big Boi, a true Atlanta icon whose work with OutKast helped put Southern hip-hop on the global map, returning for a free performance feels like a full-circle moment.
It’s an opportunity for longtime fans and new generations to experience live music in a casual, community-driven environment right in the heart of downtown.
Event Details at a Glance
- Date & Time: Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Smorgasburg Atlanta, 140 Forsyth St SW, Atlanta, GA
- Cost: Free (RSVP encouraged)
- Highlights: Big Boi live performance, DJs, 20+ food vendors, Impossible “Big Boi Burger,” interactive activities, custom merch
Whether you’re craving classic ATL sounds, trying innovative plant-based bites, or just soaking in the city’s energy with friends and family, this 404 Day block party is shaping up to be one of the most accessible and exciting ways to celebrate Atlanta in 2026.
For the latest updates and to RSVP, check the official Partiful event page or follow announcements from Impossible Foods and Smorgasburg Atlanta. ATL to the front — don’t miss it!
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