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The Atlanta Falcons are poised to part ways with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins this offseason, according to multiple reports emerging today.
Sources close to the situation, including reporting from The Athletic’s Josh Kendall and Jeff Howe, indicate the team expects to release the 37-year-old signal-caller in early March.
Falcons, Cousins To Part Ways
This move comes after the Falcons and Cousins agreed to restructure his contract earlier this month, shifting most of his 2026 base salary to 2027 and creating a $67.9 million vesting guarantee that would kick in on March 13 if he remains on the roster.
The restructure lowered Cousins’ 2026 base pay from $35 million to $2.1 million, providing Atlanta with immediate cap relief while setting the stage for a clean break before that massive guarantee locks in.
A post-June 1 designation remains possible in some scenarios, but the prevailing expectation points to an outright release by mid-March to avoid the financial hit.
Cousins joined the Falcons on a four-year, $180 million deal in the 2024 offseason, arriving as a proven starter fresh off an Achilles injury from his final season in Minnesota.
The plan was for him to mentor and bridge to first-round pick Michael Penix Jr., selected eighth overall in 2024. However, the transition never fully materialized as envisioned.
Cousins started 14 games in 2024, delivering solid production in his return from injury. In 2025, after Penix suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for much of the second half, Cousins stepped back in and led the team to a 5-3 record in his starts, including a late-season four-game winning streak.
He finished the year with 1,721 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions over those eight appearances, showing he could still move the ball effectively.
Despite that late surge, the Falcons’ front office—now under new leadership with head coach Kevin Stefanski and ongoing general manager search—appears ready to turn the page.
Stefanski, who previously worked with Cousins as offensive coordinator in Minnesota, acknowledged their history but stopped short of committing to the veteran when asked about the quarterback situation.
The decision reflects Atlanta’s commitment to Penix as the long-term starter, even as the young left-hander continues recovering from his knee issue.
Releasing Cousins frees up significant cap space for the team to address other needs or explore veteran additions if Penix isn’t fully ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
Cousins, who will turn 38 before the 2026 campaign, remains a respected veteran with a strong track record of accuracy and decision-making.
Reports suggest the Falcons could be open to re-signing him on a more team-friendly deal if he doesn’t land a starting opportunity elsewhere, but the expectation is that he’ll hit free agency and pursue a role where he can compete for QB1 snaps.
For Falcons fans, this marks the end of a brief but eventful chapter.
Final Word
Cousins brought professionalism and production during his time in Atlanta, but the organization’s future is now firmly tied to Penix and whatever direction the new regime charts.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates as the offseason unfolds, including any potential landing spots for Cousins and how the Falcons plan to build around their young quarterback. Rise up.
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Luxury watch enthusiasts in the city have a new premier destination to explore. Vacheron Constantin, recognized as the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in continuous production since 1755, has officially opened its first boutique in Atlanta at the upscale Phipps Plaza shopping center in Buckhead.
The boutique marks a significant milestone in the Swiss Maison’s enduring ties to the United States, which date back to 1832.
Located at 3500 Peachtree Road Northeast (Suite 1013), the new space blends Vacheron Constantin’s signature refined aesthetic with design elements inspired by Atlanta’s vibrant musical heritage.
“We’re pleased to announce the opening of our new Atlanta boutique in Phipps Plaza, a premier luxury shopping destination,” said Alexander Schmiedt, Brand President of Vacheron Constantin Americas. “Atlanta has long had a discerning pool of watch connoisseurs and, with this opening, we are thrilled to be able to fully share the heritage, craftsmanship and dedication to technical excellence that Vacheron Constantin is known for. We invite all enthusiasts to discover the world of Vacheron Constantin.”
The boutique’s interior has been thoughtfully crafted to embody the Maison’s pursuit of excellence while paying homage to local culture.
Visitors step into an intimate, sophisticated environment with a pared-back yet cozy design that subtly nods to Atlanta’s deep roots in music.
A standout feature is the VIP lounge, inspired by iconic recording studios. It incorporates acoustic wall coverings and raw, inviting materials for a welcoming feel.
Decorative accents draw from Abbey Road Studios—reflecting the Maison’s longstanding artistic partnership with the legendary London studio—while a custom-designed carpet playfully deconstructs sound waves, weaving in the city’s rhythmic soul.
Positioned on the mall’s first level across from Tiffany & Co., the boutique joins Phipps Plaza’s collection of high-end retailers and strengthens the center’s appeal as a go-to spot for luxury goods in Buckhead.
The store is now open with the following hours (subject to mall updates):
- Monday–Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Final Word
Watch aficionados and collectors are encouraged to visit and experience Vacheron Constantin’s storied legacy firsthand in a setting that uniquely celebrates both Swiss precision and Atlanta’s creative spirit.
For more details, check the official Vacheron Constantin boutique locator or Phipps Plaza.
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United Parcel Service (UPS), the global shipping giant headquartered in the Atlanta metro area, revealed plans Tuesday to eliminate up to 30,000 operational jobs this year as part of its ongoing turnaround strategy.
The announcement came during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call, where executives also disclosed intentions to close 24 facilities in the first half of 2026, with potential for additional closures later in the year.
UPS To Cut 30K Jobs
The cuts primarily target operational roles, including delivery drivers and warehouse workers, and will be achieved largely through attrition and a second voluntary separation program for full-time drivers, according to Chief Financial Officer Brian Dykes.
Dykes described the reductions as a “tactical move” to align staffing and network infrastructure with current volume levels and delivery demands.
This latest round follows significant workforce reductions in 2025, when UPS eliminated approximately 48,000 positions—including 34,000 operational jobs and 14,000 management roles—and closed operations at 93 facilities.
The company’s multi-year plan has focused on reducing its reliance on low-margin deliveries for Amazon, its former largest customer, while shifting toward higher-profit business segments such as healthcare logistics.
CEO Carol Tomé emphasized during the call that UPS is in the final stages of an accelerated “glide down” in Amazon volume, having already reduced daily Amazon packages by about 1 million pieces in 2025.
The company plans to cut another million pieces per day in 2026 while continuing network reconfiguration and deploying more automation to improve efficiency.
Despite the job cuts, UPS reported stronger-than-expected results for the critical holiday quarter, with fourth-quarter revenue reaching $24.5 billion. The company projected full-year 2026 revenue of approximately $89.7 billion, signaling confidence in its strategic pivot away from unprofitable volumes.
As Atlanta’s largest private employer and a cornerstone of the regional economy, the announcement carries significant implications for the metro area.
UPS’s headquarters in Sandy Springs and its extensive network of facilities across Georgia mean that local workers could feel the effects of the operational reductions, though the company has not specified how many positions or facilities in the state will be impacted.
Previous rounds of cuts have already affected Georgia operations, and union representatives have expressed concerns about the pace of workforce changes.
UPS has described the overall plan as essential for long-term profitability and competitiveness in a changing parcel delivery landscape, including the winding down of low-value e-commerce shipments and the end of certain duty-free import rules.
The company’s stock rose following the announcement, reflecting investor approval of the cost-saving measures and revenue outlook.
Atlanta residents and workers affected by the changes are encouraged to monitor UPS communications and local union updates for more details on voluntary programs and potential support resources. This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.
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As metro Atlanta kicks off 2026, the region’s construction sector finds itself in a peculiar position: bullish on one massive segment while bracing for broader headwinds.
Data centers, fueled by the relentless demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, continue to dominate project pipelines and builder optimism. Yet, lingering concerns over tariffs, labor shortages, energy costs, and overall economic uncertainty are tempering expectations for the rest of the industry.
Inside Metro Atlanta’s Data Center Boom
According to recent surveys from construction industry groups and reports in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia’s builders remain highly confident in data center projects heading into the new year. A striking 65% of contractors expect the data center market to expand in 2026, with only a small fraction anticipating any slowdown.
This enthusiasm stems from the explosive growth driven by AI adoption, where hyperscalers and tech giants require vast amounts of computing power, high-density servers, and reliable infrastructure.
Metro Atlanta has solidified its status as one of the fastest-growing—and now second-largest—data center markets globally, trailing only Northern Virginia.
Notable Data Centers in Metro Atlanta
Here are the major existing/operational campuses and significant planned/proposed ones as of early 2026 in metro Atlanta.
Location / County Developer / Operator Status Key Details / Capacity (approx.) Notes / Timeline Atlanta 1 Campus (various sites, e.g., Jefferson St NW) QTS Data Centers Operational 278+ MW, 99 acres, multiple buildings Major established campus in metro Atlanta Lithia Springs / Douglas County STACK Infrastructure (ATL02), others (e.g., T5@ATL III) Operational & Planned Varies; T5 planned 300 MW Key western cluster; ongoing expansions Douglas County (various, e.g., Echo Road, Jason Industrial Pkwy) AWS, Stream Data Centers, others Operational & Planned AWS multi-billion investment; 9-building proposals $11B+ AWS commitment; multiple sites Butts County (various, e.g., River Park area) AWS, others (e.g., planned River Park 250 MW) Planned / Under development Significant AWS portion of $11B investment Southeast of Atlanta; power-intensive Rockdale County (Conyers, Atlanta East campus) DC BLOX Under construction / Planned 144+ MW, 1M+ sq ft, 68 acres; 216 MW planned Hyperscale-ready; broken ground recently Union City / South Fulton (Fulton County) Microsoft (Fairwater 2), Atlas Development (Project Sail), others Planned / Proposed Microsoft 350 MW; Atlas $17B+ multi-building Southwest; heated local debates Spalding County (Griffin area, Wallace Jackson) Wallace Jackson LLC Proposed / Approved $3.7–$3.9B, 10 buildings, ~5M sq ft, 190 acres Massive 2026 proposal; along I-75 south Coweta County (near Newnan) Atlas Development (Project Sail) Proposed $17B+, 13 buildings, large acreage One of the largest pitched; rezoning sought Fayette County QTS (Fayetteville) Planned Expected online 2026 Emerging southern site Various (metro clusters: Alpharetta, Suwanee/Norcross, Downtown) Multiple (e.g., CoreSite AT1/AT2, Digital Realty, others) Operational Hundreds of facilities; colocation & hyperscale Traditional hubs; 1,280+ MW inventory total in market What’s Fueling Metro Atlanta’s Data Center Industrial Complex
The surge began accelerating in 2023 and shows no signs of abating. In early January alone, a mammoth proposal emerged in Spalding County south of Atlanta: the Wallace Jackson Data Center Campus, a $3.7–$3.9 billion project spanning nearly 5 million square feet across 10 buildings on 190 acres—larger than three Lenox Square malls combined.
Similar large-scale developments are in the pipeline across counties like Douglas, Butts, Union City, and Rockdale, with companies like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and others committing billions.
The AI boom is the primary catalyst. Facilities designed for AI workloads demand specialized construction, including advanced cooling systems (often liquid-based), massive power allocations (hundreds of megawatts per campus), and rapid build timelines.
Georgia’s advantages—abundant land, favorable business climate, robust fiber connectivity, and proximity to major markets—have made it a magnet for these investments. In 2025 alone, the state attracted over $40 billion in data center commitments in just the first seven months, pushing total announced projects into the tens of billions.
But this dominance comes amid growing caution elsewhere in construction. Builders cite multiple risks: potential tariffs on imported materials, persistent labor shortages (especially skilled trades critical for data center builds), supply chain strains, and uncertainty from federal policy shifts.
Broader economic indicators, including slower job growth projections and mixed signals on inflation, have led to dampened outlooks for non-data-center projects like commercial offices, retail, and traditional industrial developments.
Local debates add another layer of complexity. While data centers promise significant capital investment and short-term construction jobs, revised audits have shown their long-term economic impact—particularly permanent employment—may be overstated.
A recent correction from state analysts slashed earlier estimates of job creation and economic value by more than two-thirds, highlighting that operations jobs often number in the dozens per facility rather than hundreds.
Energy demands are also under scrutiny: Georgia Power’s approved plan for 10 additional gigawatts (largely fossil-fuel-based) is tied directly to data center growth, raising concerns about grid strain, water usage, and ratepayer costs.This has sparked pushback.
At least 10 Georgia municipalities have imposed local moratoriums on new data centers, and bipartisan legislation introduced in the 2026 session aims to rein in incentives.
Bills propose sunsetting or eliminating sales-and-use tax exemptions for data centers earlier than planned (originally set for 2032), requiring more transparency on energy consumption, or even a temporary statewide pause until 2027.
Critics Concerned About Data Center Proliferation
Proponents argue these “mega installations” consume resources disproportionate to their job creation and community benefits, while opponents warn that curbing incentives could drive investment elsewhere.
Daniel Hubbard, a former Georgia Public Service Commission candidate and energy policy advocate, highlighted the economic and community burdens: “Georgia voters see data centers receiving tax breaks as their power bills go up. They see local communities struggle with competition for water supplies and high voltage transmission lines that reduce property values… This is why opposition to data centers is growing in Georgia; because Georgians oppose being treated as collateral damage by the unregulated growth of data centers that will push their power bills even higher.”
Despite these challenges, data centers remain the bright spot in an otherwise cautious construction landscape. Experts note that Atlanta’s market benefits from pre-leased capacity, strong hyperscaler demand, and ongoing infrastructure expansions that could support completions through 2027 and beyond. For now, the AI-driven frenzy continues to propel Georgia’s construction sector forward—even as builders and policymakers grapple with the trade-offs.
Wanda Mosley, founder of Black Voters Matter and a South Fulton resident organizing against data centers, criticized the lack of transparency in development processes: “They’re holding these town halls but they’re only having people who benefit from the data centers speaking at the town halls.”
She further emphasized building resistance: “They don’t understand what they have started. They don’t understand the coalition that we’re about to build, because all of us have high electricity bills.”
Atlanta’s role as a digital infrastructure powerhouse is unlikely to fade soon, but 2026 will test whether the data center boom can sustain momentum amid rising scrutiny and economic pressures. Stay with AtlantaFi.com for the latest developments in this evolving story.
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One of the best things you could ever do with your money is to buy a home. First of all, you have to know the local real estate market. Secondly, you have to have a financial plan.
Some of the things you’ll want to consider will be lifestyle issues: What are the schools like in the area? How close is it from the job? All those are important questions, but one of the main ones is how much money to save for the down payment.
This article will show you some easy steps on how to save money for a home.
How To Save For A House This Year: 5 Steps That Work
Homeownership is an achievement that comes with the American Dream. The problem is that relatively few people ever realize it. But you certainly can. Here are the steps:
1. Set A Realistic Goal
The first thing you need to do is set a realistic goal for the type of home you want to afford. If you think a $900,000 mansion is within your means, then go for it. But for many people, that’s not realistic.
Do some homework on the specific neighborhoods you want to live in. Some are better than others.
- Evaluate Income and Expenses: Create a detailed budget to understand your financial situation.
- Check Your Credit Score: A higher score helps secure better mortgage rates.
- Pay Off Debt: Reduce high-interest debts to free up savings potential.
You’ll only get the home that you can afford to pay for it. As for the dream homes, please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to.
2. Create A Budget
Once you’ve set a goal, it’s time to create a budget that will allow you to save up for your down payment. The way to do that is to reduce expenses.
You’ll have to look at your monthly expenses and see if you can cut things like subscriptions and gym memberships.
As you know, you’ll traditionally need 20% down payment to buy a home, but this is not always the case. Many lenders an take down payments much lower than that.
3. Get A Government Loan
The way to afford the home you want is to get a government lender to give you the money. No offense, Bank of America or Regions, but government loans are usually way more generous.
There are some great lenders that let borrowers put down way less than 20%. Here are a few:
- FHA loans
- VA loans
- USDA loans, (no down payment required)
Read our guide on how to find lost government money.
4. Get A Side Hustle
Another great way to save up for a home is to get a side job. Don’t think that you need to kill yourself to earn some extra income. All you need is something to add to the pot you already have.
- Set Up a Separate Savings Account: Open a high-yield savings account specifically for your house fund.
- Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to ensure consistent contributions.
- Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Trim subscriptions, dine out less, and shop mindfully.
Don’t know where to start? Read how you can turn hobbies into side hustles fast.
5. Save Your Big Money
Chances are you’re going to get big money at least three times in a calendar year. Save it for your down payment.
- Take on Side Gigs: Freelance, gig work, or part-time jobs can supplement your income.
- Seek Promotions or Raises: Ask for a salary increase or explore higher-paying roles.
- Sell Unused Items: Declutter your home and sell valuable items online.
No matter if it’s your holiday bonus, tax refund or even a stimulus payment, you will have an opportunity to save big money. All you have to do is put it away.
How Much Money Should I Save A Month To Buy A House?
Because you’ll need to save money incrementally, it’s good to put together a plan to set cash aside each month. How much should you save? It depends.
If you want to buy a home that costs $250,000, you’ll need to save $250 a month for four years until you come up with 20% down payment. That’s around $50,000.
Here’s how to find out much rent you can afford in Atlanta.
How Much Money Do I Have To Make To Save For A House?
A lot of people don’t think they can save money for a house because they aren’t making big money. You may be wondering what kind of salary you need to pull to save up for a home.
The truth is that it depends on what the prices are in your local real estate market.
If you the homes in your area cost $200,000, then you’ll need to save $60,000 for a 30% down payment. If you save $20,000 a year, you can accumulate $60,000 in three short years.
I know it sounds easier than it is to do, but here are some creative ways you can save money.
Last Words
If you’re considering buying a home, there are many things to think about, including getting a home inspection if it’s not a new build.
If you’re serious about saving for a home, there’s nothing that says you have to only save 20% for your down payment. Why not aim for 30%?
The more you save, the cheaper your home will be over the length of the mortgage. If you can save money on the front end, once you get inside your new home, you’ll sleep much better.
Read more: How To Buy Land In 6 Easy Steps
Once you’ve saved a certain amount of money, it’s time to start looking at cheap homes for sale.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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One thing to clarify if you’re serious about buying a home in Atlanta in this real estate market is: How much house can I afford?
The question is one that needs to be weighed seriously because all you have to do is visit the steps of the Fulton, DeKalb or Cobb County courthouse to see foreclosure auctions in action.
Here’s How Much House You Can Afford In Atlanta (Calculator)
People buy more house than they need for several reasons:
- Bad advice from Realtors
- Keeping up with the Joneses
- Resale purposes
Let’s talk about each of these a little bit before we move into what homes cost in Atlanta:
Whether you’re a first-time buyer eyeing a cozy condo in Midtown, a growing family looking at suburbs like Alpharetta or Decatur, or an investor scouting opportunities, knowing your budget is the first step.
Current Atlanta Housing Market Snapshot (Early 2026)
- Median home price: Around $420,000–$440,000 (varying by source; metro area sales prices have stabilized after 2025 adjustments, with modest growth expected nationally).
- Average 30-year mortgage rates: Hovering in the low-6% range (forecasts suggest 6.1%–6.3% averages for 2026).
- Market outlook: A more balanced environment with increased inventory, giving buyers better negotiating power compared to the peak frenzy years. Prices are projected to rise modestly (2–4% nationally), but Atlanta’s market is cooling slightly for sustainability.
Buying a home in Atlanta remains achievable for many, especially with rates easing from recent highs. Factors like your income, credit score, down payment, and debts play a huge role.
Quick Affordability Guidelines for 2026
Using standard lending rules (28%–36% debt-to-income ratio):
- On a $80,000 household income, you could afford a home in the $300,000–$350,000 range (with 10–20% down).
- On a $100,000 income, aim for $400,000–$450,000.
- On a $150,000 income, $550,000–$650,000 is realistic.
These are estimates assuming good credit, a 10% down payment, and including property taxes (1.0–1.2% of home value in metro Atlanta), homeowners insurance ($2,000–$3,000/year), and PMI if down payment <20%.Use Our Atlanta Home Affordability CalculatorPlug in your details for a personalized estimate:
- Annual household income: $
- Monthly debts (car loans, student loans, credit cards): $
- Down payment saved: $
- Preferred mortgage rate (current avg ~6.2%): %
- Credit score range: Excellent (740+) / Good (700–739) / Fair (640–699)
Bad advice from Realtors
Real estate agents play a vital role in the homebuying process, but you have to know when they’re in and out of their lane.
A Realtor has no business telling you how much house you can afford. That’s what a lender is for. A Realtor should only advise you on what type of home you want.
Still, many people listen to Realtors who are out to make a buck. Some of them will tell you that you can afford the home by this strategy and that strategy, but the truth is, it may be a bad deal.
Keeping up the Joneses
This is the worse reason to buy a big house: To keep up with your neighbors, friends or other family members.
If you are vain enough to buy a huge home because of someone else’s situation, then you’re the type that will end up with bad credit because you’re paying too much for your home, car and appliances.
Resale Purposes
Some potential home shoppers want to buy a home because they think that appreciation is going to let them double or triple their money (again, bad advice).
That’s not the reason you should buy a home. You should purchase a home because you like it, the way it looks, feels and speaks to your sensibilities.
The resale market is too unpredictable to base such a big purchase on, especially if you’re not a seasoned investor.
So, how much home can you afford? Here’s how to find out:
Multiply Your Annual Income
To find out how much home you can afford, you would multiply your annual income by two or three.
Let’s say you make: $50,000 a year. That means you could afford a home that costs anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000.
Of course, this will be affected by two things:
- Interest rate: The percentage that is paid by borrowers for the money that they borrow.
- Credit score: A three-digit number that indicates to banks and other lenders how likely you are to repay debt.
Here Are 5 Ways To Determine How Much Home You Can Afford
Answer these questions:
- 1. How much is your annual income?
- 2. How much is your downpayment?
- 3. What ZIP code do you want to live in?
- 4. How much are your monthly expenses (food, clothing, mortgage, etc)?
- 5. What is your credit score?
Here’s a mortgage calculator to help you:
How Can I Calculate How Much Home I Can Afford?
https://www.mortgagecalculator.net/embeddable/v2/?size=1
Powered By www.MortgageCalculator.netOther Factors That Determine How Much Home You Can Afford
Another factor that will indicate how much house you can afford is your expense-to-income ratio.
Front-End Ratio
This is how much your monthly expenses are vs. how much income you bring in. Banks like this number, commonly called a “front-end ratio,” to be between 28 and 30%.
Your mortgage lender will look for your mortgage payment and PMI (private mortgage insurance) to all be around 28% of your income.
Debt-To-Income Ratio
You’ll also need to have a relatively low debt-to-income ratio to get the home you want. This means that the amount of debt you’ve borrowed and paying back is not gobbling up most of your income.
Banks like your debt-to-income ratio to be around 36% typically.
Are You A Veteran?
If you have served your country, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers home loans and grants to help you buy, refinance or renovate your home.
For ex-military and their surviving spouses, the VA guarantees part of the loan, meaning they will cover a portion of the loan if you default. Learn more here.
30-Year-Loan Or 15-Year Fixed?
If you have a choice, you may be wondering which is better: A 30-year mortgage or a 15-year mortgage?
The truth is that both have their advantages. A 30-year mortgage would typically mean a lower monthly bill because the payments are spread out over more years.
The bad part is that you’ll pay a lot more in interest over those years.
For a 15-year fixed, the interest rate is lower and you’ll pay off the principal faster.
The bottom line is if you can afford to do a 15-year mortgage, you should!
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Don’t you love when you remember that you have money somewhere? What is that somewhere was the local government? Yes, there’s a chance that the state of Georgia owes you some money.
Unclaimed money from the state is one of the largest areas that people forget to check when they are in need. The fact is that state treasuries have millions of dollars in unclaimed money and people are unaware.
What Types Of Unclaimed Money Could Be Out There?
If you’re curious about what types of unclaimed money could be out there, here are some categories you need to know about.
- Missing Tax Refunds
- Old Checks From Defunct Businesses
- Old Accounts From Shuttered Banks And Other Financial Entities
- Retirement Accounts From Former Employers
How Do I Find Out If I Have Unclaimed Money In Georgia?
An unclaimed money search is something that you have to figure out. There’s no central federal government agency that keeps track of the unclaimed money it has for you or funds that you may be owed.
There are however some websites that allow you to check to see if you have unclaimed money.
The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) facilitates Unclaimed.org, a multistate database for unclaimed money. Here’s the link for Georgia.
- Start your search for unclaimed money with your state’s unclaimed property office.
- Use the missingmoney.com is another site that has a multistate database that lets you do a free search for your name for bank accounts, safe deposit box contents, uncashed checks, insurance policies, CDs, trust funds, utility deposits, stocks and bonds, wages and escrow accounts in Georgia or any state you’ve moved from. (You do have to register).
Another way to get money is by means of an unclaimed check. Let’s talk about that.
What Is An Unclaimed Check?
An unclaimed check can take many forms, but it may most likely be an uncashed payroll check. Think back to all the jobs you formerly had. They may have some unclaimed money for you!
Make sure you check your old employers as well as your maiden name to see if any residual checks are there for you.
Check Your Old Pensions
If you’ve worked a job in the past, you may have some unclaimed money out there in the form of a pension.
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. keeps a database on all unclaimed pensions across the United States.
Go to the PBGC’s website to see if you have an old pension with money in it.
Beware Of Scams
The most important thing about unclaimed money is that crooks are trying to get ahold of it just like you.
There are a lot of sites out there that will ask you to pay a fee to do an unclaimed money search, but that’s a racket. Don’t pay anyone to search for your money. Do it at the sites above FOR FREE.
Final Words
Believe it or not, there are a lot of ways you can come into a windfall of money. One of the easiest ways is to see if the state of Georgia owes you money.
Getting your unclaimed money is a great way to generate much-needed capital in these days and times. The key is that you have to be persistent and leave no rock unturned, as they say.
Don’t let the red tape of the system intimidate you from getting what’s rightfully yours: Your hard-earned money.
Aside from cash, you may have some land you don’t know about. See how to get your unclaimed property.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? 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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It’s not often, but when snow or ice forms in Atlanta, it often brings chaos, stranding drivers, knocking out power, and reminding us all why we cherish our mild climate.
To be sure, winter storms have hit metro Atlanta before. The one in 2018 left snow everywhere — but we’re talking about the worst ice storms in recent memory.
With a winter storm making its way to metro Atlanta once again, a possibility, let’s revisit the five most impactful winter storms in Atlanta’s history, based on their disruption to daily life, economic toll, and sheer memorability.
5 Biggest Winter Storms in Atlanta History
These events, drawn from local records, highlight how even modest accumulations can paralyze the Peach State’s capital.
1. Snow Jam ’82 (1982)
The infamous Snow Jam of 1982 kicked off Atlanta’s modern era of winter woes. Striking in mid-January, this storm dumped about 4 inches of snow across the metro area, catching the city off guard.
What started as a typical workday quickly devolved into gridlock, with thousands of commuters stranded on major highways like I-285 and I-75.
Many abandoned their vehicles altogether, trekking home on foot or hunkering down in nearby buildings. The city ground to a halt for days, with schools and businesses shuttered, marking one of the first times Atlantans truly grappled with snow-induced mayhem.
Georgia Governor George Busbee declared a state of emergency and mobilized the National Guard to assist stranded motorists and clear roadways, marking one of the first major state-level interventions for a winter event in Atlanta.
In the aftermath, Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson directed the city’s public works department to install snow plow mounts on garbage trucks to better prepare for future storms.
2. Blizzard of ’93 – The Storm of the Century (March 1993)
Often called the “Storm of the Century,” this massive blizzard slammed into Atlanta on March 13, 1993, after unusually warm temperatures in the preceding days lulled residents into complacency.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Atlanta office reported: “Total snowfall by late evening averaged 18 to 24 inches from Rome to Clayton with near 30 inches from Fannin to Union Counties.”
The city saw over 4 inches of snow, but the real devastation came from high winds, heavy accumulations in North Georgia (up to 3 feet), and widespread power outages affecting more than half a million Georgia Power customers—some without electricity for up to two weeks.
Here’s how the 1993 blizzard looked and felt via video footage:
Atlanta Journal-Constitution staff writers Scott Marshall and Dennis McCafferty described it as: “A snowstorm for the ages crippled much of the state.”
Tragically, the storm claimed 15 lives in Georgia alone, with hundreds more nationwide, and left thousands of motorists stranded on I-75 into the following week. Economic losses in North Georgia topped $48 million, making this one of the deadliest and costliest winter events in state history.
3. Super Bowl Ice Storm (January 2000)
Just as Atlanta was gearing up to host Super Bowl XXXIV at the Georgia Dome, Mother Nature delivered a one-two punch with an ice storm in late January 2000.
David Ratcliffe, CEO of Georgia Power (1993–2003), stated: “It was one of the worst ice storms we ever had.”
The initial wave hit on January 22, followed by more during the big game weekend.
While snowfall was minimal, the ice coating roads and power lines led to catastrophic conditions: over half a million people in North Georgia lost power, some for more than a week, and metro Atlanta reported hundreds of wrecks, including a massive 47-car pileup on I-20 westbound.
Ratcliffe further noted: “We had close to 500,000 people without power, some for over a week.”
Fortunately, the Super Bowl itself went off without a hitch, but the storm’s $48 million in damages underscored the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure to freezing rain.
4. The 2011 Blizzard (January 2011)
On January 9, 2011, another blizzard blanketed Atlanta with nearly 4 inches of snow, transforming the city into a slippery nightmare.
A day later, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed was vocal about the response. He stated: “Last night, the City of Atlanta experienced a significant snowstorm with rapid accumulation and freezing rain, and we continue to experience below-freezing temperatures.
Police departments were overwhelmed, eventually stopping responses to non-injury accidents amid countless crashes.
A 15-mile stretch of I-285 was shut down, stranding truckers who slept in their cabs, while thousands of flights were canceled at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—leading many passengers to camp out overnight rather than brave the roads.
The storm’s timing on a Sunday evening amplified the disruption, keeping schools closed and workers homebound for days.
Fulton County Commission Chairman John Eaves defended limited investments in equipment: “You’ve got to weigh the cost versus the need… The reality is, this kind of snowstorm happens every 10 or 15 years.”
5. Snowpacalypse 2014 – Snowmageddon (January 2014)
Echoing the chaos of 1982, Snow Jam 2014—dubbed “Snowmageddon”—struck on January 28 with just 2.6 inches of snow, but its timing was disastrous.
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed tweeted pre-storm: “Atlanta, we are ready for the snow.”
This event elicited strong accountability from officials. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal admitted: “We don’t want to be accused of crying wolf,” explaining hesitation in early declarations.
“We are certainly ahead of the game this time, and that’s important,” Deal said. “We are trying to be ready, prepared and react as quickly as possible.”
As flurries began midday, schools, businesses, and government offices released everyone simultaneously, jamming over a million people onto the highways. Cars were abandoned en masse on I-75, I-85, and I-285, with some commuters stuck for up to 24 hours.
Ninety-nine Fulton County school buses were trapped until midnight, forcing 2,000 students to spend the night at school, while others sought refuge in stores like Kroger and Home Depot.
Charley English, head of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, confessed: “I got this one wrong,” regarding delayed activation of the emergency center.
Amid the turmoil, one heartwarming story emerged: a father delivered his baby girl in his car on I-285. The event prompted statewide reviews of emergency preparedness.
Reflecting later, Reed said: “We made an error in the way that we released our citizens.”
These storms serve as stark reminders that in Atlanta, it’s not always the depth of the snow but the unpreparedness that amplifies the impact.
Final Word
As we navigate the 2026 winter season, local officials urge residents to stock up on essentials, avoid unnecessary travel during forecasts, and heed warnings from the National Weather Service.
Stay safe out there, Atlanta—better to be overprepared than snowed under. For more local weather updates, check back with us regularly.
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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With a big winter storm forecast to bring freezing rain, sleet, and potential heavy ice accumulation across metro Atlanta, power outages are a real threat as ice weighs down trees and power lines.
Utility crews are mobilized and ready to respond, but restoration can take time—sometimes days—during widespread winter events.
How To Stay Safe and Warm If You Lose Power During an Ice Storm
If your lights go out during an ice storm, here’s a practical guide to stay safe, warm, and prepared. These tips draw from Georgia Power recommendations, Ready.gov, and local emergency guidelines.
Before or Right When Power Goes Out
- Report the outage immediately — Call Georgia Power at 888-891-0938 or report online at GeorgiaPower.com/Outage. Sign up for free Outage Alerts via text for personalized updates on your neighborhood.
- Stay informed — Use a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates from NOAA or local stations. Avoid unnecessary travel; ice makes roads extremely hazardous, and downed lines can be hidden under snow or ice.
- Turn off or unplug appliances — Switch off lights and unplug sensitive electronics to prevent damage from power surges when electricity returns. Leave one light on to signal when power is restored.
Staying Warm Safely
Heat is the top priority in freezing temperatures. Never take risks with carbon monoxide (CO)—an invisible, odorless killer.
- Do NOT use ovens, gas stoves, charcoal grills, or propane heaters indoors to heat your home. These produce deadly CO.
- Use generators correctly — Only operate portable generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and garages. Follow manufacturer instructions exactly, and never refuel while running or hot. Read up on the best generators to buy.
- Conserve body heat — Close off unused rooms and stuff towels under doors to block drafts. Cover windows with blankets, curtains, or shades at night (open during sunny days for passive solar warmth). Dress in layers, wear hats and socks, and gather in one central “warm room” with family members—shared body heat helps.
- Alternative heat sources — If you have a fireplace, use it only if properly vented with dry wood. Battery-powered or approved indoor-safe portable heaters can help, but never leave them unattended.
- Prevent frozen pipes — Let faucets drip slowly (both hot and cold) to keep water moving. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes. Know your main water shut-off valve in case a pipe bursts. Or call a plumber.
Food and Water Safety
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A full freezer can stay cold for 24–48 hours; a refrigerator about 4 hours.
- Use coolers with ice blocks if needed, and monitor food temperatures with a thermometer. Discard perishable food that reaches 40°F or higher for 2+ hours, or shows odd odor, color, or texture.
- Stock non-perishable food, bottled water, and manual can openers. Eat balanced meals to maintain body heat; drink warm (non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated) beverages.
Lighting and General Safety
- Use flashlights, battery lanterns, or headlamps instead of candles to reduce fire risk. Keep extra batteries handy.
- Install and test battery-backup CO detectors on every level of your home.
- Never touch downed power lines—assume they’re live, even if covered in ice. Stay far away, warn others, and call Georgia Power immediately.
- Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents or those with medical needs. If anyone relies on electric medical devices, have backup plans or head to a warming center if needed.
After Power Returns
- Wait a few minutes before plugging in appliances to avoid overloading circuits.
- Inspect food carefully—when in doubt, throw it out.
- Check pipes for leaks if temperatures dropped significantly.
Atlanta rarely sees major ice events, but when they hit, they can cause significant, long-lasting outages. Georgia Power prioritizes safety and won’t work in dangerous conditions, so patience is key while crews clear ice and restore lines.
For the latest updates, visit GeorgiaPower.com/Storm or follow local news. Stay safe, Atlanta—hunker down, stay warm, and look out for each other.
If conditions worsen or you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911. For non-emergency outage info, use Georgia Power channels.
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How do you look as a first responder? That’s the question one local casting company wants to know in Atlanta.
CAB Castings LLC, an Atlanta-based casting company specializing in extras for television series, films, and other productions, is currently seeking experienced paid extras to portray EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) in an upcoming scene for a popular hit TV series filming in the Atlanta area.
Casting Details: Experienced EMT Roles
The production requires authentic portrayals of EMTs during an emergency sequence, with producers emphasizing the need for individuals who have real-world experience in the field. This ensures accurate movements, procedures, and skills on camera.Key Requirements:
- Age: 21 years or older
- Experience: Must have prior EMT experience (critical for authenticity in the scene)
- Diversity: Open to any race, gender, or ethnicity
- Availability: Full-day commitment required on both filming dates
- Thursday, January 29, 2026
- Friday, January 30, 2026
- Call Time: 8:00 AM (plan for all-day availability)
- Mandatory Fitting: If selected, attendance is required on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM
The role offers paid work at the standard rate of $180 for 12 hours (total potential $360 across both days if booked for the full period). Payment will be issued via check mailed 2–3 weeks after filming.Due to the high popularity of the series, only those officially confirmed by the producers and placed on the confirmed list will be permitted on set—no exceptions.How to SubmitIf you’re available and meet the criteria (especially the EMT experience requirement), email your submission to INFO@cabcastings.com (mailto:INFO@cabcastings.com).Subject Line: EMT w/ EXPERIENCE (2 DAYS)Include all of the following in your email:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Age
- Date of birth
- Height
- Weight
- 3 recent photos: 1 headshot + 2 full-body shots
A representative from CAB Castings, LLC will contact you directly if interested to confirm details and book you for the scene.This is a great opportunity for qualified EMTs in the Atlanta region to appear in a major television production while earning paid compensation.
Final Word
Submissions are being accepted now—act quickly, as spots are limited and confirmation is competitive! For more information on CAB Castings’ ongoing projects, check their official social media channels or related casting sites.
Are you interested in becoming an actorin Atlanta? You’re in the right place!
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