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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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Update: A judge has overturned Pinky Cole’s home seizure.
Aisha “Pinky” Cole, the entrepreneur behind the popular plant-based restaurant chain Slutty Vegan and a newcomer to The Real Housewives of Atlanta, is facing a high-stakes legal dispute over one of her investment properties shortly after filing for bankruptcy.
Pinky Cole, Founder of Slutty Vegan and New ‘RHOA’ Cast Member, Battles Creditor Over Seized Loganville Home
Court documents reveal that a creditor seized her 6-bedroom, 4-bathroom home in Loganville, Georgia, prompting an emergency federal court hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Bankruptcy Filing and Debts
Cole filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on February 12, 2026, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Georgia.
Chapter 11 allows individuals or businesses to reorganize debts while continuing operations under court supervision.
Her filing lists approximately $1.2 million owed to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)—stemming from a COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)—and $192,000 to the Georgia Department of Revenue for state taxes, for a total of roughly $1.4 million in reported government-related debts.
This marks her second recent bankruptcy attempt; she initially filed under Chapter 13 in January 2026 but withdrew it.
Cole has described herself in filings as currently unemployed, with income limited primarily to her husband’s approximately $15,000 monthly earnings.
Her assets reportedly include real estate, vehicles (including a bus nicknamed “The Magic School Slut”), restaurant equipment, and personal items, though exact valuations vary across documents.
The Seizure of the Loganville Property
The controversy centers on a 2,814-square-foot investment property in Loganville, about an hour east of Atlanta.
According to Cole’s emergency motion, Guardian Asset Management took control of the home on February 20, 2026—just days after her Chapter 11 filing.
The company reportedly changed the locks, posted a notice on a street-facing window stating the property was under their management, and barred entry until it could be sold.45
Cole’s attorney, Jamie Christy, immediately contacted Guardian, arguing that the actions violated the automatic stay triggered by the bankruptcy filing.
This federal protection generally halts most creditor collection efforts, including foreclosures or seizures, to give the debtor breathing room for reorganization.
Christy followed up with a formal letter the same day demanding the property’s return, but Guardian refused to comply.
Financial Harm and Request for Relief
In court filings, Cole contends the seizure is causing “extreme financial harm.”
She planned to rent out the property to generate income, with a prospective tenant’s lease set to begin on April 1.
Losing access to the rental income exacerbates her financial strain during the bankruptcy process. Her legal team describes the home as an investment property unlawfully taken in violation of bankruptcy protections.
Guardian Asset Management has not publicly responded to the allegations as of the latest reports.
What’s Next: Emergency Hearing
An emergency hearing is set for Thursday in federal bankruptcy court to resolve the dispute.
The judge will determine whether the seizure violated the automatic stay and whether the property must be returned to Cole’s control.
The outcome could set a tone for how her broader Chapter 11 reorganization proceeds, especially regarding other assets and debts.
Cole’s rise with Slutty Vegan—from a single Atlanta food truck in 2018 to a multi-location chain known for bold, indulgent vegan burgers—made her a prominent figure in plant-based dining and Black entrepreneurship.
Her upcoming full-time role on RHOA (Season 17) adds another layer of public scrutiny to these financial challenges.
This situation highlights the complexities of bankruptcy, particularly the automatic stay’s role in protecting debtors and the potential for disputes when creditors act quickly.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing pressures many pandemic-era business owners face with EIDL repayments and tax obligations.
Updates from Thursday’s hearing are expected to provide clarity on whether Cole regains access to the Loganville home and how her reorganization efforts will continue.
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Atlanta’s beloved outdoor electronic music gathering is back and bigger than ever. If you’re looking for cool things to do on the Beltline, you won’t want to miss this.
“Beats on the Beltline” Season 3, Episode 1 kicks off on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark (830 Willoughby Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30312).
A Free Day of EDM, Community, and Spring Vibes in Atlanta
This free, all-ages daytime EDM event brings together local DJs, artists, food vendors, and thousands of music lovers for a full day of dancing, picnicking, and genuine connection along the Atlanta Beltline.
What began as a casual park meetup has evolved into a major draw, regularly attracting 5,000+ attendees while preserving its relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere.
Organized by Atlanta EDM and Connect Atlanta, the event transforms the open field at the skatepark into a vibrant community hub.
Attendees can expect high-energy sets from local talent, plenty of space to flow, dance, or simply lounge on the grass, and a lineup of food options to keep the energy up throughout the day.
The event is explicitly family- and dog-friendly, making it a perfect spring outing for everyone.
Whether you’re bringing the kids, your four-legged friends, or just a blanket and good vibes, the day is designed for socializing, enjoying the outdoors, and soaking in the positive community spirit that has defined Beats on the Beltline since its early days.
As the season opener, this edition promises to set the tone for more unforgettable gatherings ahead. No tickets are required—just show up ready to move, connect, and celebrate Atlanta’s thriving EDM scene under the open sky.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Location: Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark, 830 Willoughby Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
- Cost: Free
- Vibe: Laid-back, inclusive, family- and dog-friendly
Mark your calendar, grab your crew (and your pup), and get ready for a full day of beats, sunshine, and Beltline magic. See you on the field!
Check out the best places to eat on the Beltline.
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Atlanta, GA – March 24, 2026 — The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that Zoo Atlanta has been granted accreditation by its independent Accreditation Commission.
This decision recognizes the zoo’s ongoing commitment to the highest standards in animal care, wellbeing, and management.
Zoo Atlanta Gets Accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
“Earning AZA accreditation demonstrates commitment to the global gold standard of animal care and wellbeing,” said Dan Ashe, President and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “We are honored to be able to celebrate Zoo Atlanta’s successful reaccreditation while in their home city during our AZA Mid-Year Meeting.
As one of our host facilities, over 1,200 zoo and aquarium professionals from around the globe will visit Zoo Atlanta today for Zoo Day and see their commitment to excellence firsthand.”
A Rigorous Process
AZA accreditation is widely regarded as the gold standard for zoos and aquariums worldwide.
The process is thorough and demanding: institutions must submit a detailed application, followed by a multi-day on-site inspection conducted by an independent team of zoological professionals.
Inspectors evaluate every facet of operations, including:
- Animal care and wellbeing
- Veterinary care
- Staff training
- Educational programs
- Conservation efforts
- Financial stability
- Risk management
- Governance
- Guest services
Following the inspection, detailed reports from both the inspection team and the facility are reviewed by the Accreditation Commission.
The Commission then conducts formal interviews with the facility’s top officials before rendering a decision: full accreditation, provisional accreditation for one year, or denial.
Accredited facilities must repeat this rigorous process every five years to maintain membership in the AZA.0
Zoo Atlanta’s Commitment
“Zoo Atlanta is honored to be granted AZA accreditation for another five years and to be part of the extraordinary international network that is AZA,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “As mirrored in the principles of AZA, Zoo Atlanta works tirelessly and daily to ensure superior professional animal care and wellbeing; education programs that reach students and families not just here in Georgia but far beyond the Zoo; and partnership in conservation programs making a difference for wildlife and their habitats worldwide.”
Currently, there are 240 AZA-accredited institutions and 14 AZA-accredited related facilities across 12 countries.
Zoo Atlanta joins this select group in upholding excellence that benefits animals, visitors, and global conservation efforts.
About Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta is dedicated to saving wildlife and their habitats through conservation, research, education, and engaging visitor experiences. The zoo provides world-class care for its animals while offering transformative educational opportunities for guests of all ages.
For more information or to plan a visit, go to zooatlanta.org.
This reaccreditation underscores Zoo Atlanta’s position as a leader in modern zoological institutions, ensuring that its animals receive the best possible care while advancing education and conservation on a global scale.
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In the chaotic symphony of modern air travel—endless security lines, shoes in bins, laptops half-zipped, and the perpetual dread of missing a flight—TSA PreCheck stands as a quiet revolution.
For a one-time fee that breaks down to roughly $15–17 per year, this trusted traveler program promises a smoother, less invasive screening experience at over 200 U.S. airports.
TSA PreCheck: What You Need To Know
But in 2026, with more than 20 million members, evolving policies (like the end of mandatory shoe removal in some lanes), and competing options like CLEAR, is it still the smart upgrade it once was?
We’ve crunched the numbers, polled the realities, and flown the friendly (and not-so-friendly) skies to deliver the verdict.
What Exactly Is TSA PreCheck?
Launched by the Transportation Security Administration, TSA PreCheck is a voluntary program that vets low-risk travelers through a background check.
Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to add to your airline reservations. At participating checkpoints, you enjoy dedicated lanes where you can typically:
- Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on.
- Leave laptops and compliant liquids (3-1-1 bag) in your carry-on.
- Breeze through without the full-body pat-down drama or bin-juggling ballet.
It’s available for domestic departures on dozens of airlines, including major carriers like American, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, and international partners.
Read: How to avoid airport delays
Newer enhancements like TSA PreCheck Touchless ID—using facial recognition for even quicker identity verification—are rolling out to 65 airports by spring 2026, with airlines like Delta, American, United, Southwest, and Alaska participating.47
The Cost: Surprisingly Affordable
New enrollments run $76.75 to $85 for a full five-year membership, depending on the provider (IDEMIA is often the cheapest at $76.75; CLEAR and Telos are slightly higher). Renewals are even better: as low as $58.75 online or up to $79.95 in person.
That works out to less than $17 annually—or about the price of two airport coffees.2
Pro tip: Dozens of premium credit cards (including many from American Express, Chase, Capital One, and others) offer statement credits that can make TSA PreCheck effectively free.
If you hold one, the math tilts heavily in your favor. Global Entry ($100–120 for five years) automatically includes PreCheck benefits, making it a no-brainer for international travelers.
The Real-World Benefits: Time, Stress, and Sanity
Data from the TSA shows that 99% of PreCheck passengers wait 10 minutes or less at security.
Independent analyses and traveler surveys paint a similar picture: average standard lines hover around 40+ minutes during peaks, while PreCheck often shaves off 5–15 minutes—or more at busy hubs like JFK, LGA, or ORD. One New York-area study found PreCheck faster 82% of the time, with average savings of 5–10 minutes.25
But the true value isn’t just minutes—it’s the reduced hassle. No more frantic shoe removal. Fewer chances of your laptop getting dinged. Less stress, especially when traveling with kids or during holiday rushes.
Frequent flyers consistently rate PreCheck experiences as far less stressful (3.3/10 vs. 7.3/10 for standard lines).
Families love the family benefit: children 12 and under can often join a PreCheck parent in the expedited lane without their own membership.
In 2026, even with program growth, PreCheck remains a reliable edge.
While some critics note that lines have lengthened as membership swells and certain shoe-removal rules have relaxed in regular lanes, the dedicated PreCheck experience still delivers predictability and dignity—qualities increasingly rare in air travel.
Who Should Get It? (And Who Can Skip It)
Yes, absolutely worth it if:
- You fly twice or more per year domestically (it pays for itself in 2–3 roundtrips when factoring time and stress).
- You value consistency over occasional lottery wins in regular lines.
- You travel with family—kids under 12 (and sometimes teens) can tag along.
- You have a credit card that reimburses the fee.
Maybe not if:
- You fly once a year or less from small regional airports with short lines.
- You’re primarily an international traveler (consider Global Entry instead for customs perks).
- You’re okay gambling on CLEAR lanes at your home airport (though CLEAR is pricier at ~$200/year and focuses more on ID verification upfront).
Travelers at major hubs during peak seasons report the biggest wins. At quieter airports, the difference can be marginal—but the peace of mind remains.
How to Apply: Easier Than You Think
- Visit tsa.gov/precheck and choose a provider (IDEMIA, CLEAR, or Telos).
- Complete the online application with basic info and pay the fee.
- Schedule a 10-minute in-person appointment for fingerprints and ID verification (hundreds of enrollment centers nationwide, plus pop-up events).
- Approval often comes in days or weeks; add your KTN to profiles immediately.
Renewals are mostly online now, with conditional approvals sometimes skipping in-person visits. Background checks are thorough but rarely disqualify low-risk applicants.
The Verdict: Yes, It’s Worth It in 2026
In an era where air travel can feel like a contact sport, TSA PreCheck is one of the few upgrades that delivers tangible, repeatable value without breaking the bank.
It’s not a magic carpet, but it’s close: less chaos, more composure, and the quiet satisfaction of knowing you’ve outsmarted the system just a little.
For most domestic flyers—especially those with even moderate frequency—it’s a no-regrets investment. Pair it with Global Entry for international trips or CLEAR for ultra-busy mornings, and you’ve built a formidable travel armor.
Ready to reclaim your airport mornings? Head to the TSA site, check your credit card benefits, and join the millions who swear by it. Your future self—laptop still in its bag, shoes firmly on—will thank you.
Safe travels, and may your PreCheck lane always be the shortest one.
What are your PreCheck stories? Share in the comments—we’re always collecting tales from the terminal.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Atlanta, Georgia is a greenspace paradise, or at least some of it is. Have you visited Atlanta’s parks system?
In this article, we’re going to show you where some of the best parks are in Atlanta. You can use these spots for a quick jog, a pleasant walk or even a nice picnic.
Greenspaces have become even more popular during the coronavirus pandemic, where getting into the open air and away from large crowds can do wonders for our physical as well as mental health.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Parks
So, you can see that finding great park space is no biggie in Atlanta, and yet, many Atlanta parks have their own features, dynamics and geography. Whether you’re looking for a place to just chill and relax or trying to find a place for your kids to play, you’ll find that the best Atlanta parks have a little of both.
So, which Atlanta parks are the best? Well, how about we rely on the many voices found on the internet to answer that question? AtlantaFi has compiled numerous comments from various sites to get their take on the best Atlanta parks you can find.
Piedmont Park
Atlanta’s premier green space in Midtown, often called the city’s backyard. Sprawling lawns, Lake Clara Meer, sports fields, dog parks, playgrounds, and events galore.
Recent buzz: Still tops Yelp and TripAdvisor lists for its beauty and accessibility. Perfect for picnics, runs, or people-watching. “The heart of Atlanta—always vibrant and green!”Lake: Yes. Lake Clara Meer, an iconic 11.5-acre lake in the heart of the park. It’s a centerpiece for scenic views, walking paths around it, fishing (post-renovation), and skyline photos—often called one of Atlanta’s most beautiful urban lakes.
Cook Park
Cook Park, officially Rodney Cook Sr. Park, in the Vine City neighborhood of Atlanta has all the amenities you’d want in an urban greenspace: It’s close to the community, near downtown and is expertly manicured!
Lake: Yes, Cook Park in Atlanta features a prominent 2-acre stormwater pond and wetlands. This central water feature serves as both a scenic amenity and a functional, eco-friendly system that filters storm water to protect the neighborhood from flooding.
Bellwood Quarry
The Bellwood Quarry Westside Park is old abandoned quarry converted into a modern urban water reservoir park.
Lake: Yes, the Bellwood Quarry, now part of Westside Park in Atlanta, features a massive 45-acre water reservoir. This former granite quarry was converted into a 1.9-billion-gallon emergency drinking water reservoir to serve the city. It acts as a scenic lake at the center of the 350-acre park.
Here’s what one park lover says about Bellwood Quarry: “This is going to be one amazing park after my first big love Piedmont Park. I love the fact that you can walk or bike around the entire park and end up in different section. I spent hours walking around this park and loved it. I will sure be going there again for my nature walk. I love the fact that the city of Atlanta is working hard to create these different parks venue for people to be outside and keep them healthy. This is a smart investment for people who know how much health care cost in this country. Keep up the good work opening these different venue to keep us healthy.”
Perkerson Park
Perkerson Park, located at 770 Deckner Ave SW Atlanta, is a 50-acre park in the Capitol View/Sylvan Hills neighborhoods. It has a basketball half-court just past its entrance, but up the path on a plateau about 200 yards away is a full court basketball court. There’s also a kids’ playground, a recreational fields, a jogging track and frisbee tournament grounds.
Southside Park
Here’s what one reviewer says of Southside Park: “Great mountain bike trails and super close to downtown ~15min drive. Super flowy, fun XC single track. Lots of switchbacks, gradual climbs and a few zippy bits especially on the Hickory trail.”
South Bend Park
South Bend Park, located at 1955 Compton Dr SE in Atlanta, GA, is a family-oriented, peaceful, and clean recreational space known for its dog park, playgrounds, and natural features. The park offers amenities such as swings, slides, picnic tables, a barbecue grill, and a tennis court, serving as a welcoming spot for families and dog owners.
Here’s what one park-goer says of South Bend Park: “The park has a trail starting adjacent to the pool. The SouthTowne Trail is a winding paved pathway perfect for biking or walking. Plenty of twists and turns. Although, you can’t mindlessly walk with phone in hand, but that’s a good thing. You can hear, & partly see, the streams through all the trees and kudzu. Birds are chirping everywhere, especially cardinals. This trail leads into the Swann Nature Preserve where they had a bridge closed. I was almost at the end, couldn’t finish the trail, so I went off course, and found an eastern box turtle before I got to the stream. There are a lot of elevation changes, so it’s a nice physical exertion, but at least there’s plenty of shade. Saw a few deer prints in the mud, along with (possibly) coyote tracking it.”
Centennial Olympic Park
Here’s what one city resident says about Centennial Olympic Park: A clean park in the middle of downtown Atlanta. Not sure if the “grass” is actually astroturf, but it was cut very low and looked kinda dry. Overall the park was well maintained and a nice tribute to the Olympic games that were held here in 1996. Only takes like 30 minutes to explore the entire park, including all the monuments.
Lake: No. ts primary water feature is the interactive Fountain of Rings, a popular dancing water fountain. While it features a water garden, it is a landscaped, urban park rather than a water-based recreational area.
Here’s what one reviewer said: “With the train station being literally at the park, the industrial ambiance is quite relaxing, if you ask me. The Marta train station is located across the street. Thankfully, a pavilion is close in distance to cool off at & is perfect for hosting parties.
The basketball court is gated and filled with great street players. There is also a gated pool with a kiddie umbrella water area. The only thing I dislike is the lack of parking spaces in front of the parks community building.”
How You Can Save Atlanta’s Parks
You might not know it but, Atlanta’s parks are endangered due to urban sprawl and utter neglect from city officials and the community. But you can do something about that.
Join the movement spearheaded by the Trust for Public Land to put a park within a 10-minute walk of every American.
1. Volunteer Your Time (The Most Direct Impact)
Hands-on work keeps parks clean, beautiful, and functional.
- Park Pride — The go-to hub with over 90 Friends of the Park groups (e.g., Friends of Piedmont Park, Grant Park Conservancy, Chastain Park Conservancy). Join cleanups, invasive plant removal, mulching, trail maintenance, or habitat restoration. Sign up for free volunteer days or start/join a group for your local park.
Website: parkpride.org (check “We Can Help” or “Volunteer Program”). - Piedmont Park Conservancy — Regular weekday and weekend opportunities in Atlanta’s flagship park (weeding, trash pickup, invasive removal, mulch spreading). Great for individuals or groups.
Register: piedmontpark.org/support-the-park/volunteer. - Atlanta BeltLine — Trail cleanups, event support, community outreach. Orientations and group projects available—perfect for the expanding network of trails and new parks.
Sign up: beltline.org/support/volunteer. - Trees Atlanta — Focus on urban forest restoration (e.g., Conserve the 4-0-Forest events for invasive removal and tree care). Projects most Saturdays.
treesatlanta.org/get-involved/volunteer. - Other conservancies — Grant Park Conservancy (monthly workdays), South Fork Conservancy (creek restoration), Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, or Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (trail/river cleanups).
Search the City of Atlanta’s volunteer page (atlantaga.gov > Department of Parks & Recreation > Volunteer info) for a full list of trusted partners.
2. Donate or Advocate
- Support Park Pride or specific conservancies (e.g., Piedmont Park Conservancy) for funding maintenance, programming, and improvements.
- Donate to Trust for Public Land (tpl.org) — Active in Atlanta (e.g., BeltLine land acquisition, Cook Park stormwater projects). They push for equitable park access and new greenspaces.
- Advocate: Attend Parks & Greenspace Conference (next one March 2026 at Atlanta Botanical Garden), support the city’s Activate ATL strategic plan (2022-2026, focusing on more parkland and funding), or contact City Council members about park budgets/priorities.
3. Everyday Actions to Help “Save” Parks
- Pick up litter during visits (even small efforts add up—join or start casual cleanups via apps like Litterati or local groups).
- Report issues — Use ATL311 app/website for maintenance needs (broken equipment, overgrown areas, safety concerns).
- Use responsibly — Stay on trails, pack out trash, avoid off-leash dogs in restricted areas to prevent erosion/wildlife harm.
- Spread the word — Share positive park experiences on social media, encourage friends/family to visit/volunteer, or support events that highlight parks (e.g., BeltLine activities for World Cup 2026).
- Plant natives/support trees — If you have space or join efforts, help combat invasive species and urban heat.
Atlanta’s parks thrive because of community involvement—volunteers and advocates have driven major wins like BeltLine progress and recent grants ($35M+ for 19 parks in recent cycles). Start small: Pick one park (maybe Piedmont or your neighborhood spot), sign up for a volunteer shift this spring, and build from there.What park do you love most, or how would you like to get involved (e.g., volunteering, donating)? I can point you to more specific links or upcoming events!
Final Word
Atlanta, Georgia has become an oasis of public greenspaces. People looking for wide open spaces and green acreage don’t have to travel very far to find it in the city.
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Got any other ATL parks to add to the list? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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- Park Pride — The go-to hub with over 90 Friends of the Park groups (e.g., Friends of Piedmont Park, Grant Park Conservancy, Chastain Park Conservancy). Join cleanups, invasive plant removal, mulching, trail maintenance, or habitat restoration. Sign up for free volunteer days or start/join a group for your local park.
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The long-running reality TV series Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (LHHATL) appears to be facing the end of its run, with widespread rumors in March 2026 indicating cancellation after 13 seasons.
As of March 21, 2026, no official announcement from MTV (the current network airing the show) or parent company Paramount Global has confirmed the series is definitively canceled.
The End Of LHHATL: What’s Tea?
However, speculation has intensified across social media, entertainment blogs, and cast-adjacent commentary over the past week, pointing to low ratings, the broader decline of the Love & Hip Hop franchise, and behind-the-scenes whispers as key factors.
A Legacy of Drama Since 2012
Launched in June 2012 on VH1, Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta quickly outshone the original New York edition to become the flagship title in the franchise.
Set in the heart of the Southern hip-hop scene, the show blended music industry storylines with personal relationships, family conflicts, business ventures, and—most memorably—explosive confrontations.
Iconic cast members like Joseline Hernandez, Stevie J, Mimi Faust, Scrappy, Erica Mena, Karlie Redd, Rasheeda, Kirk Frost, and Mama Dee delivered viral moments that dominated social media for years.
Storylines involving paternity tests, physical altercations, music collaborations gone wrong, and redemption arcs kept viewers hooked, helping cement Atlanta as a dominant force in unscripted television during the 2010s.
The series moved to MTV in later seasons (around the early 2020s), but maintained its signature chaotic energy.
Read more: LHHATL star Karlie Redd charged with burglary
Season 13 premiered in 2025–2026, with the first half airing previously and the second half kicking off in February 2026 with promos promising “new energy, emotional conversations, and truths coming to the surface.”Episodes were still scheduled weekly on Tuesdays at 8/7c as recently as mid-February 2026.
Why Cancellation Rumors Are Swirling Now
Multiple sources in mid-to-late March 2026 reported that LHHATL would not return for a Season 14:
- Entertainment gossip pages and Instagram accounts described it as “#EndOfAnEra,” noting it would mark the last active city-based edition of the franchise to fall.
- AllHipHop.com published an article (updated March 18, 2026) stating that “rumors are swirling” and sources suggest the show is “quietly heading toward the exit” after 13 seasons of fights, reconciliations, and viral moments.
- Cast member Mama Dee (a longtime staple) reportedly indicated in interviews or social content that the show is “most likely cancelled,” with some fans interpreting her comments as near-confirmation.
- YouTube recaps and commentary videos discussed low ratings as a primary driver, especially after Love & Hip Hop: Miami wrapped its final season on BET, leaving Atlanta as the lone survivor.
- Social posts emphasized that—if true—this would be the first time in 15 years the Love & Hip Hop brand has no active series on air.
Counterpoints exist: some fan fact-check posts and group discussions insist there has been no official cancellation from the network, and Season 13 was still unfolding or recently airing its back half.
The absence of a formal statement from MTV leaves room for renewal, a retool, or a quiet move to another platform/streaming service.
The Bigger Picture: The Decline of the Franchise
The Love & Hip Hop empire has shrunk significantly over the past decade:
- Spinoffs in New York, Hollywood, Miami, and others have ended or concluded final seasons.
- Producer changes, network shifts (from VH1 to MTV/BET), audience fatigue with repetitive drama, and competition from newer reality formats have eroded viewership.
- By 2026, Atlanta remained the last major holdout, but declining ratings reportedly made continued investment difficult.
Fans are divided. Some celebrate the potential end, calling the show “long overdue” for retirement and criticizing recent seasons for lacking the spark of earlier years.
Others lament the loss of a cultural touchstone that spotlighted Atlanta’s music scene, gave platforms to women in hip-hop and entertainment, and created countless meme-worthy moments.
What Comes Next?
If the rumors solidify into an official cancellation, Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta will close with 13 seasons—one of the longest runs in modern reality TV history.
Cast members may pivot to solo projects, podcasts, OnlyFans content, music releases, or other reality appearances.
The franchise could potentially be revived in a rebooted format years later, as many long-running shows have done.
For now, the status remains in rumor territory—but the conversation around its possible end reflects both nostalgia for its peak and acknowledgment that the era of sprawling, multi-city Love & Hip Hop drama may finally be drawing to a close after more than a decade of chaos, hits, and unforgettable Atlanta nights.
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Georgia’s film industry is at a crossroads, but the ights are back on, cameras are rolling, and the Peach State’s film and television sector is proving once again why it’s one of America’s premier production powerhouses.
As we head deeper into 2026, the Peach State is experiencing a clear rebound after a challenging post-strike slowdown, with 33 active productions currently filming across the state—the highest number in nearly two years.
Georgia’s Film Industry Rebounds Strong in 2026
According to the Georgia Film Office, direct production spending hit a record $4.4 billion in fiscal year 2022 with 412 projects on the books. But the industry faced a sharp reset in the years that followed.
How big is Georgia’s film industry?
Spending dropped to $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2025, with productions falling to 245, as Hollywood grappled with the lingering effects of the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes, studio cost-cutting, and a broader shift in the streaming landscape.
A big part of that dip? Some major players headed overseas.
Marvel Studios wrapped its final Georgia shoot with 2025’s Thunderbolts and relocated big-budget superhero productions to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, where labor and overall costs run significantly lower.
Other streamers followed suit for select projects, chasing cheaper international incentives and production savings amid a leaner content slate. Industry insiders noted the move was less about Georgia’s shortcomings and more about global economics—studios simply hunting for the best deal in a tighter market.
Yet even with those high-profile departures, Georgia isn’t just holding its ground—it’s gaining momentum.
Georgia Film Office Director Lee Thomas put it plainly this week: “We are busier now than we have been in some time. 2026 is much better than 2025 was.”
Thomas and other leaders recently briefed state lawmakers on the upswing, highlighting how Georgia’s combination of competitive tax incentives (up to 30% transferable credits with no cap), world-class crews, diverse filming locations, and massive studio infrastructure continues to make the state an “easy button” for producers.
“Georgia’s the easy button,” echoed Rep. Kasey Carpenter. “You pick up the phone, somebody is on the other line. We’re willing to roll up our sleeves and get you to production.”
That attitude is paying off. Recent and upcoming shoots include Tulsa King (filmed recently in Savannah), Judd Apatow and Glen Powell’s Comeback King (set for Savannah this spring), and a steady stream of episodic TV like Sistas, Love is Blind, and Family Feud. Tyler Perry Studios, Trilith, Assembly Atlanta, and new facilities keep expanding, while Savannah’s local rebates add extra appeal for coastal and historic shoots.
Nationally, Georgia remains a top-tier U.S. production hub.
Is Georgia Still #1 in the Film Industry?
While some 2026 rankings place California and New York at the very top thanks to their own beefed-up incentives, Georgia consistently ranks among the elite for overall output, stage space (second-largest in the nation), and long-term stability.
Business Facilities Magazine has called it No. 1 for film production in recent reports, and local leaders point out that the state’s experienced workforce and business-friendly environment give it an edge few others can match.“
Georgia remains one of the most competitive places in the world for film and television production,” Thomas emphasized.
The state’s appeal stretches far beyond Atlanta—crews are lighting up everything from Atlanta’s urban backdrops and rural farmlands to Savannah’s historic streets and coastal vistas.
What’s Ahead for Georgia’s Film Industry
Looking ahead, optimism is high.
Several Georgia-filmed projects are slated for 2026 releases, including Netflix originals and theatrical features, and industry veterans say the pipeline of episodic and mid-budget work provides more consistent jobs than the boom-and-bust of tentpole blockbusters ever did.
Yes, Georgia lost some flashy productions to Europe’s cost advantages. But the numbers, the crews, and the infrastructure tell a different story: The Peach State isn’t fading—it’s evolving into an even stronger, more resilient force in American filmmaking.
The cameras keep rolling in Georgia. And from Atlanta to Savannah and beyond, the industry that helped put our state on the global entertainment map is writing its next act—stronger, smarter, and still very much center stage.
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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One of the largeest arts and crafts festival in Decatur is coming up soon: On Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, head to Olmsted Linear Park for this free arts and crafts festival.
The Festival On Ponce offers over 125 displays of fine arts, crafts, and folk art, plus local food and a children’s area. It’s a great outdoor option if the weather cooperates.
Saturday’s Spring Festival On Ponce schedule begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. Attendance is Free.
Spring Festival On Ponce 2026: Everything You Need To Know
The Festival on Ponce will be held in historic Olmsted Linear Park, along Ponce de Leon Avenue in NW Atlanta.
There will be scores of displays of fine arts and crafts, folk and “outsider art”. There will also be food, music and a children’s area there.
Additional parking for festival visitors will also be available at Atlanta Primitive Baptist Church located at 1367 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta, GA 30306.
Where Is The Festival On Ponce Being Held?
The Festival on Ponce is taking place at Olmstead Linear Park at 1451 Ponce de Leon Ave, NW Atlanta, Ga. 30307.. Here is a map to help you find it.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
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While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome festivals.
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