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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!
With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
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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Atlanta’s Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has announced that it is in the midst of a major overhaul of its Breeze fare collection system, introducing modern equipment and payment methods designed to make transit more secure, convenient, and user-friendly.
The upgrade, often referred to as the “Better Breeze” system, includes installing new faregates, fareboxes, validators, and touchscreen ticket vending machines across the entire rail and bus network.
MARTA Upgrades Breeze Fare System
Installation is proceeding in phases, with new equipment already appearing at rail stations. Riders are currently unaffected and should continue using existing Breeze cards or the current mobile app as normal—no changes to bus or rail service are occurring.
Looking into public transit in Atlanta? Read our guide to riding MARTA.
For any station-specific construction impacts, such as entrance detours, MARTA advises checking its website or signage.
The current Breeze fare media—including physical Breeze cards and the existing Breeze Mobile app—will become incompatible with the upgraded system and will be discontinued after May 2, 2026. After that date, riders will need to use the new fare options to board trains or buses.
Key features of the new system include:
- New fare equipment — More secure faregates that can be remotely monitored and adjusted, helping to reduce fare evasion and enhance overall safety.
- Open payment options — Riders can tap contactless bank cards or mobile wallets (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay) directly at faregates or fareboxes to pay for fares.
- New Breeze app — The current Breeze Mobile 2.0 will be replaced. Users will need to download a new Breeze app and set up a virtual Breeze card to purchase and manage fares digitally.
- New Breeze cards — These will be account-based, meaning stored value and passes live in the customer’s online account rather than on the physical card itself. Options for multi-day and monthly passes will continue to be available.
Important transition details:
A dual-system period will run from March 28 to May 2, 2026, allowing both old and new equipment to operate side-by-side. This gives riders time to use up remaining balances on current media, purchase new fare products, and get comfortable with the changes.
However, any unused fare balances on current Breeze cards or accounts will not transfer to the new system and will be lost if not spent by May 2, 2026. MARTA strongly encourages riders to “spend down” existing value during this window.
Sale of current Breeze products will end in phases starting in March 2026:
- 30-day passes: Last day to buy — March 1, 2026
- 20- and 10-trip passes: Last day — March 15, 2026
- 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 7-day passes: Last day — March 22, 2026
- 1- and 2-trip passes: Last day — March 28, 2026
New Breeze cards, along with multi-day and monthly passes, will go on sale starting March 28, 2026. They will be available at the new touchscreen vending machines, RideStores, Reduced Fare offices, and various pop-up locations around the system (details on pop-ups to be announced in March).
For riders eligible for reduced fare or MARTA Mobility services, options include obtaining a new physical card or using the new mobile app. They can visit a Reduced Fare office, email reducedfare@itsmarta.com, or call 404-848-5112 for assistance.
The upgrade aligns with MARTA’s broader efforts to modernize transit in metro Atlanta, including preparations for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring increased ridership to the region.
Final Word
These changes are underway as MARTA preps for the FIFA World Cup this summer.
For the latest updates, station-specific information, and resources on the transition, visit MARTA’s official website at itsmarta.com or the dedicated Better Breeze page. Riders are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid any disruptions after the May 2 cutoff.
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For the first time since 2019, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) has reclaimed the title of the nation’s busiest airfield by aircraft movements, edging out Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in 2025, according to preliminary data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
New figures show O’Hare recorded 857,392 takeoffs and landings last year — a significant 10.5% increase from 776,036 movements in 2024. In comparison, Atlanta’s airport handled 807,625 operations in 2025, marking only modest growth from the previous year.
Chicago O’Hare Surpasses Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson as Busiest U.S. Airfield by Aircraft Movements in 2025
This shift ends Atlanta’s recent streak at the top of this metric, though Hartsfield-Jackson — the longtime home base and primary hub for Delta Air Lines — has held the crown as the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic for decades (with the exception of the 2020 pandemic year).
Key distinction: Movements vs. Passengers
While Chicago leads in the number of flights (aircraft movements), Atlanta continues to dominate in total passenger volume due to its use of larger aircraft and Delta’s efficient hub operations.
Industry data from sources like OAG indicate Atlanta offered around 63.1 million departing seats in 2025, compared to roughly 50.6 million at O’Hare — a gap of about 25%.
Passenger counts from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics and other reports consistently show Atlanta ahead in enplaned/deplaned travelers.
The difference stems from airline networks: O’Hare serves as a major hub for both United Airlines and American Airlines, which rely heavily on smaller regional jets for shorter, high-frequency routes across the Midwest and beyond.
This drives more takeoffs and landings per passenger. Atlanta, by contrast, features Delta’s strategy of larger mainline jets carrying more people per flight.
Aviation analysts point to competitive dynamics at O’Hare as a driving force. The airport’s dual-hub status for United Airlines and American Airlines has fueled a “capacity war,” leading to higher flight frequencies and more regional jet operations compared to Delta’s larger-plane strategy at ATL.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson celebrated the milestone, stating: “This is more than a statistic, it’s a statement about Chicago’s momentum. From the runways of O’Hare to the neighborhoods across our city, Chicago is building, growing, and leading. We are open for business, open to the world, and once again setting the pace for the nation.”
For Atlanta travelers and the local economy, Hartsfield-Jackson remains the undisputed leader in passenger throughput and global connectivity.
The airport has consistently ranked No. 1 worldwide in passenger traffic in recent Airports Council International (ACI) reports, including for 2024, and continues to serve as a critical engine for Georgia’s aviation sector.
Looking ahead, intense competition between American and United at O’Hare could keep movements elevated, but experts note it’s unlikely Chicago will overtake Atlanta in passenger numbers anytime soon given Delta’s stronghold and Atlanta’s higher average aircraft size.
Final Word
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport remains the heart of global air travel — moving more people than any other airport on Earth — even as Chicago celebrates a win in flight activity. Stay tuned for final 2025 passenger rankings and full ACI World data later this year.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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It’s a fact that big winter storms often cause power outages and other headaches. When that happens, having a portable generator can keep essential appliances running, such as refrigerators, medical equipment, and heating or cooling systems.
When preparing for a storm, having a reliable generator can be crucial.
In this article, we’ll show you some of the best portable generators on the market. Here are some of the best types of generators to consider:
Portable Generators
- Honda EU2200i: Known for its reliability and quiet operation, it’s great for powering essential appliances.
- Yamaha EF2000iSv2: Lightweight and fuel-efficient, this model is ideal for small power needs.
Inverter Generators
- Champion 4000-Watt Ultralight: Offers quiet operation and is easy to transport, suitable for camping and emergency use.
- Westinghouse iGen4500: Provides a higher wattage output and features a remote start, making it user-friendly.
Standby Generators
- Generac Guardian Series: These are permanently installed and automatically turn on during power outages, providing peace of mind.
- Briggs & Stratton 40445: Another reliable standby option with a good reputation for performance.
Dual Fuel Generators
- DuroMax XP12000EH: Runs on both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility and extended run time.
- Champion 100263: Features a powerful output and can also use both fuel types, making it versatile for emergencies.
Solar Generators
- Jackery Explorer 1000: A portable solar generator that’s eco-friendly and perfect for small electronics and appliances.
- Goal Zero Yeti 500X: A robust solar generator that provides reliable power and can be charged with solar panels.
Where to Buy:
- Home Improvement Stores: Home Depot and Lowe’s often have a variety of generators in stock.
- Outdoor and Sporting Goods Stores: Retailers like Cabela’s and REI may carry portable and inverter generators.
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Walmart, and specialty websites often have a wide selection, sometimes with competitive prices.
Tips for Buying:
- Check Wattage Needs: Determine how much power you’ll need for essential appliances.
- Read Reviews: Look for customer feedback on reliability and ease of use.
- Consider Fuel Type: Think about what’s most accessible for you (gasoline, propane, solar).
- Look for Warranty and Support: A good warranty can offer additional peace of mind.
Buying a generator before a storm can help ensure you have the power you need when you need it most.
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It’s getting cold in Atlanta, Georgia right now, which means you’re going to have to stay warm the best way you know how. With such arctic weather, homeowners across the city need to be concerned about frozen pipes in our homes.
One of the worst feelings a homeowner can have is when their pipes freeze due to cold weather. That’s why it’s super important to not let it get to that point if you can help it.
And regardless of the weather, you can help it. But you’re going to need to take some precautions.
How To Prevent Frozen Pipes At Your Home
You’ve probably heard the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Well, that’s certainly the case when it comes to preventing frozen pipes at your residence.
When doing these steps, if you don’t feel comfortable, make sure to contact a licensed plumber for your needs. On the other hand, if you can handle these simple tasks, you will be able to keep your home safe and dry and your bank account intact.
Let’s get started with the first of many steps:
1. Find Out Where Your Shutoff Values Are
Just in case you need to turn off your water, you should know where all your shutoff values are adjacent to your plumbing pipes. Look under the sinks and go outside next to the spigots and check out your shutoff values.
The reason this is so important is because in case of a burst pipe, you’ll need to quickly shut off water to that pipe.
2. Disconnect Your Garden Hose From The Spigots
While you’re at your spigots outside, go ahead and tighten them and disconnect them from any garden hoses so that any trapped water can’t expand and burst the piping.
Many homeowners skip this step, but if you leave a garden hose attached, there’s the possibility that water could be trapped between the spigot and the water house connector, which could freeze and create an issue. Be safe, not sorry!
3. Adjust Your Thermostat
The second thing you should do is look to get your home suitable to withstand the inclement weather outside. To do this, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55 degrees. That way, you won’t have to worry about any interior freezing.
4. Open Your Sink Cabinet Doors
Another thing that many homeowners neglect to do is open their cupboards and sink cabinet doors. You want to encourage the free flow of warm air throughout your home. Opening the cabinet doors under your sink will help keep them warm and stave off the chill from outside.
5. Let Your Faucets Drip
For any faucets inside your home, turn them on so that they can drip throughout the night. This will allow water to continuously flow through the pipe and stop it from freezing.
You’ll want to make sure you check for any frozen pipes in your home. If you notice that a pipe is frozen, you’ll want to warm it with a hair dryer or by wrapping a warm towel around it that has been heated in hot water on the stove.
If you’re uncomfortable with doing any of these steps, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a licensed plumber.
Final Word
Whatever you do, stay warm this winter. Perhaps you’ll need to invest in a new winter coat to do the job. Whatever you decide, make your safety a priority this season.
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Atlanta entrepreneurs have exciting opportunities to secure small business grants in 2026, especially with major events like the FIFA World Cup on the horizon.
These non-repayable funds can help cover startup costs, renovations, marketing, or expansions—giving local businesses a competitive edge in one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S.
Guide: Small Grants Available for Atlanta Businesses
While the federal government (through the SBA) rarely offers direct grants for starting or expanding general businesses—focusing instead on research, exporting, or community organizations—Atlanta and Georgia provide targeted local and regional programs.
Many prioritize minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or neighborhood revitalization efforts.
Here are some of the top small business grants for Atlanta entrepreneurs available or relevant in 2026:
1. Small Business Improvement Grants (Invest Atlanta)
Administered by Invest Atlanta, this program offers grants of up to $50,000 for interior and exterior improvements, such as signage, lighting, storefront upgrades, and code compliance repairs.
Eligibility focuses on small businesses and property owners in seven specific Tax Allocation Districts (TADs): Campbellton Road, Hollowell-ML King, Metropolitan Parkway, Perry Bolton, Eastside, Westside, and Stadium Neighborhoods.
Priority goes to locally owned businesses that create jobs and support equitable economic development.
Recent approvals have distributed hundreds of thousands in funding to businesses like restaurants and retail shops.Applications are typically ongoing or cycle-based—check Invest Atlanta’s website for current deadlines and requirements.
2. Downtown Pop-Up Opportunity Fund (Central Atlanta Progress / Invest Atlanta)
This initiative, tied to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, provides micro-grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to help independent, locally owned retail and restaurant businesses activate vacant or underutilized storefronts in Downtown Atlanta (Eastside and Westside TAD areas).
Funds cover tenant improvement costs to accelerate leasing ahead of the World Cup and other mega-events.The application opened in early January 2026 and is reviewed on a rolling basis—strong encouragement to apply by March 6, 2026, for timely completion. Required documents include a business W-9, budget, and timeline.
3. Atlanta Beltline Façade pARTnership Grant
This creative program pairs small businesses along the Beltline corridor with artists for façade enhancements, offering up to $50,000 (with a small match required).
The 2025-2026 cycle includes a call for businesses to outline improvement needs, followed by artist matching.It aims to stimulate growth, boost visibility, and enhance the corridor’s appeal—ideal for entrepreneurs in Beltline-adjacent neighborhoods looking to stand out.
4. Other Atlanta-Area and Georgia Opportunities
- Comcast RISE Fund — Provides $10,000 grants plus consulting and tech makeovers to eligible small businesses (often with a focus on underrepresented owners). Applications open periodically.
- Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta — Offers competitive grants, though many target nonprofits; monitor for business-adjacent opportunities in economic development or community impact.
- State-level options like Go Global Georgia (for exporters) or regional revolving loan funds through Georgia’s Department of Economic Development can include grant-like elements or low-interest support.
Tips for Atlanta Entrepreneurs Applying for Grants
- Research eligibility carefully — Many programs target specific neighborhoods, business types, or demographics (e.g., minority-owned).
- Prepare strong applications — Include a solid business plan, budget details, and proof of impact (job creation, community benefit).
- Act fast on time-sensitive programs — World Cup-related funds have rolling or early 2026 deadlines to allow completion before events.
- Combine funding sources — Pair grants with SBA loans (like 7(a) or 504 programs available through local partners) for maximum support.
- Stay updated — Visit official sites like Invest Atlanta, AtlantaGa.gov, Georgia.org, and Beltline.org regularly, as programs evolve.
Atlanta’s entrepreneurial scene is thriving, and these grants—especially those boosting businesses for 2026’s global spotlight—offer real pathways to growth without debt.
If you’re a local entrepreneur, explore these options today and position your business for success in the ATL. For the latest details, always verify directly with program administrators, as availability and requirements can change. Good luck building your Atlanta dream!
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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Trying to find work in the restaurant industry in Atlanta is not easy right now. A lot of restaurants are closing — but gainful employment is out there.
To help you in your job search, we’ve curated a list of the top restaurant jobs that are hiring right now in Atlanta, Georgia.
All of the jobs listed here have been vetted by AtlantaFi.com, your jobs source. Many of the listings have multiple positions available so make sure you go through the entire postings.
Find Restaurant Jobs In Atlanta
To find some of the best restaurant jobs in Atlanta, you should tap into your network to see if someone knows an employee or manager at the company.
The benefits of working in a restaurant include:
- Typically, you get to eat on the job’s dime.
- Also, the work is usually later in the evening, so traffic’s never an issue
- You learn teamwork by collaborating with a larger staff
This article is going to show you some of the best Atlanta restaurant jobs hiring right now.
Of course, you want great pay, decent hours and a not-too-long commute. Take a look at these positions and see if you can work with them:
Here are the jobs in Atlanta looking to hiring servers and hosts at their restaurants:
Job Title Company Location Pay Link Waiter Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Atlanta, GA $14.50 Per Hour Apply Here Full Time Server Needed for Japanese Restaurant Wagaya Japanese Restaurant Atlanta, GA $25.00 – $40.00 Per Hour Apply Here LITTLE SPARROW SERVICE ASSISTANT (Midtown) Rocket Farm Restaurants LLC Atlanta, GA $5.15 Per Hour Apply Here BEETLECAT COOK – UP TO $24/hr. (Inman Park) Rocket Farm Restaurants LLC Atlanta, GA $16.00 – $24.00 Per Hour Apply Here THE OPTIMIST GENERAL MANAGER – UP TO $120K/yr. + BONUS (Midtown) Rocket Farm Restaurants LLC Atlanta, GA $85K – $120K Apply Here Blue Moon Brewery Bartender, Truist Park Delaware North United States Not specified Apply Here Banquet Server, Truist Park Delaware North Atlanta, GA $17.15 Per Hour Apply Here Bartender Six Flags Over Georgia Austell, GA $11.00 Per Hour Apply Here Food Safety & Quality Control Technician (Bilingual) Rising Staff Atlanta, GA $18.00 – $24.00 Per Hour Apply Here Chophouse Server, Truist Park Delaware North Atlanta, GA Not specified Apply Here 18 Final Word
Working for a restaurant is a great way to make a regular paycheck in Atlanta. You can also build a clientele and eat pretty well.
No matter, what stay persistent and don’t get discouraged. Finding a job is not an easy thing, but you can do it. Stay up to date with Atlanta’s best jobs by following the company you want to work for on LinkedIn.
Remember to do all these things along with your job search:
- Network among close friends and family
- Inquire on social media about job openings
- Apply for open positions and follow-up with emails
If you don’t have transportation, consider applying for some of the Best work from home jobs in Atlanta, Georgia.
Metro Atlanta has a hot economy and that means employers are hiring at a rapid pace. We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
