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The 18th Annual Atlanta Quilt Festival is underway at the Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton and continues through September 5, 2026.
Atlanta Quilt Festival: What To Know
This long-running celebration of textile art highlights African American quilting traditions alongside traditional, modern, and art quilts, drawing makers and visitors for exhibits, workshops, lectures, and community events. Not to mention, it’s one of the top festivals in Atlanta.
Dates, Location & Hours
- Dates: July 31 – September 5, 2026
- Location: Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road, South Fulton, GA 30331
- Viewing hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (hours begin August 1)
The festival features a juried exhibition of more than 100 quilts. It emphasizes the preservation and promotion of African American quilting and other textile arts while welcoming work across styles. A standout special exhibit, “Music Moves Movements,” explores the deep ties between music, song, and social justice movements—from spirituals to freedom anthems—through original quilt works.
Workshops, Classes & Events
Beyond the gallery displays, the festival offers a full slate of hands-on classes, master classes, lectures, and trunk shows. Offerings span beginner to advanced levels and include topics such as:
- Beginning quilting and free-motion quilting
- Bag making and hand embroidery
- Paper piecing (including a Niemeyer-method master class)
- Kawandi slow-stitching in the Siddi tradition
- Silk painting, T-shirt quilts, pixel quilts, and Instagram for quilters
- An “AI Meets Quilting” class that introduces generative tools for design inspiration
Many classes include materials guidance, continental breakfast or lunch, and separate ticket fees (typically in the $40–$65 range depending on the session). Check the official schedule for exact dates, times, and availability, as sessions continue on weekends and select weekdays through early September.
Why It Matters
Founded and sustained as a space that honors quilting as both craft and cultural storytelling, the Atlanta Quilt Festival has grown into an 18-year tradition. It provides a welcoming platform for established artists and newcomers alike while spotlighting the historical and contemporary significance of African American textile traditions. Recent coverage has highlighted its role in community connection and creative expression.
Admission and class ticket details can vary; the most current information, RSVPs, and purchases are available on the official website, atlantaquiltfestival.com. The Southwest Arts Center is located in South Fulton, making the festival an accessible metro Atlanta destination for a day (or multiple visits) of art, learning, and inspiration.
Whether you’re a longtime quilter, a curious beginner, or simply looking for a meaningful cultural outing this summer, the Atlanta Quilt Festival offers a rich, multi-week experience that runs through the first weekend of September.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
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SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — Grammy-winning R&B icon Babyface will take the stage at Wolf Creek Amphitheater on Sunday, August 9, 2026, with special guest Chanté Moore for a night of smooth classics and soulful hits.
Babyface, Chanté Moore To Perform at Wolf Creek Amphitheater: What To Know
The outdoor concert is set for 7:30 p.m., with gates opening at 6:00 p.m. Wolf Creek Amphitheater is located at 3025 Merk Road in South Fulton (College Park area). Free parking is available. Live music is back this weekend in Atlanta. Get tickets.
About the Artists
Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds is a 13-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose catalog includes timeless hits and massive productions for artists such as Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, and many others. Fans can expect a set filled with signature tracks that defined 1990s and 2000s R&B.
Grammy-nominated vocalist Chanté Moore joins as special guest. Known for her rich voice and hits spanning decades, Moore adds another layer of classic R&B elegance to the evening.
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Time: Gates 6:00 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
- Venue: Wolf Creek Amphitheater, 3025 Merk Road, South Fulton, GA 30349
- Parking: Free
Tickets are available through etix.com and major secondary marketplaces. Availability is limited as the show approaches.
Wolf Creek Amphitheater offers an outdoor setting popular for R&B and soul concerts in the Atlanta metro area. Attendees are encouraged to check the venue’s website for the latest entry policies, weather updates, and prohibited items before heading out.
For more information and tickets, visit the official Wolf Creek Amphitheater site or authorized ticket outlets. Get tickets.
Fortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.
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.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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ATLANTA — Zoo Atlanta is opening its gates free of charge this weekend to residents and employees of the City of Atlanta and Fulton County as part of its annual City of Atlanta & Fulton County Family Days, presented by Kaiser Permanente.
Zoo Atlanta Offers Free Admission This Weekend for City of Atlanta and Fulton County Residents
The special event runs Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9, 2026. Eligible guests can receive free admission for up to two adults and up to four children per party.
Who Qualifies
Free admission is available to:
- Residents of the City of Atlanta or Fulton County
- Employees of the City of Atlanta Government or Fulton County Government
Required identification:
- Residents: A Georgia driver’s license or State of Georgia-issued voter ID plus a current water, gas, or light utility bill showing a City of Atlanta or Fulton County address.
- Employees: A City of Atlanta or Fulton County Government employee identification card.
Parking & Entry Details
Parking is free in the Cherokee Avenue parking lot and the Grant Park Gateway parking facility on Boulevard, thanks to partners including the City of Atlanta and AAA Parking.
No timed reservations are required. Entry is walk-up only on a first-come, first-served basis. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions and is not available online.
Zoo Atlanta is located at 800 Cherokee Avenue SE in Grant Park. Weekend hours are typically 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with last admission at 4:30 p.m. (confirm current hours on the zoo’s website before visiting).
Zoo Atlanta officials note that Family Days are traditionally very well-attended. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and consider carpooling or taking MARTA.
For full details, visit zooatlanta.org/event/family-days.
What other activities might you enjoy around Atlanta? Take a ride to the metro mountains of Atlanta. Or you might want to get physical by playing basketball around the city. Here’s more awesome and adventurous things to do around Atlanta.
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Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams has finalized key remaining issues in her divorce from businessman Simon Guobadia, walking away with significant assets according to court documents.
Under the settlement agreement, Williams received the deed to the Atlanta mansion the couple once shared. Guobadia transferred his ownership interest in the property to her via a quitclaim deed. She is also entitled to more than $1.5 million—specifically $1,568,181.63—in reimbursement from his share of the property’s equity. In addition, she obtained clear title to a 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost.
The agreement grants Williams full authority to refinance or sell the home in a commercially reasonable manner without needing involvement from Guobadia or an arbitrator. During an August 5, 2026, hearing, both parties confirmed the settlement terms under oath, stating that it resolved all remaining issues between them. Williams noted in her filing that Guobadia had already agreed to the terms of the consent order.
The couple married in November 2022 after a relatively short courtship. Williams filed for divorce in February 2024 after about 15 months of marriage, describing the relationship as irretrievably broken. Earlier stages of the proceedings involved enforcement of their prenuptial agreement, which had already provided for monthly spousal support, retention of certain vehicles, and arrangements regarding the home’s equity and expenses. Guobadia, who was deported to Nigeria amid immigration issues, had contested aspects of the prenup, but courts largely upheld its terms.
See Porsha Williams’ Buckhead estate.
This latest resolution appears to close out the property and vehicle-related disputes that lingered after the initial rulings. The multimillion-dollar Atlanta residence—previously reported as valued around $7 million and featuring five bedrooms and eight bathrooms—had been a central point of contention. Williams had been awarded exclusive use for a period, with Guobadia responsible for certain carrying costs in the interim, before this full transfer of the deed.
The settlement underscores the financial outcomes of a high-profile but brief marriage that played out partly in the public eye through reality television and subsequent legal filings. As with many celebrity divorces, the details emerged through court records obtained by outlets covering the case. Both parties have now formally resolved the outstanding matters under the agreement.
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The hit Netflix reality dating series has returned to the Peach State for casting. Producers are seeking unmarried Georgia residents ready to test whether emotional connection can outweigh physical attraction in the show’s signature “pods” experiment. Some reports specifically link the call to Season 11.
The Experiment, Explained
In Love Is Blind, singles spend about 10 days getting to know potential partners through walls in private pods. They talk, form bonds, and can propose marriage—all without ever seeing each other. Engaged couples then meet face-to-face, take a vacation together, move in with each other back home, and ultimately decide at the altar whether to marry.
Netflix is casting Georgia singles for a future season of Love Is Blind, with applications now open for people seeking a serious relationship
Hosts Nick and Vanessa Lachey guide the process. The show’s first season filmed in Atlanta and produced lasting relationships, most notably Lauren Speed-Hamilton and Cameron Hamilton, who remain married, have a child, and continue as popular figures associated with the series. Amber Pike and Matt Barnett also married on the show and have stayed together.
Who Can Apply
Key eligibility requirements reported across casting announcements include:
- Being at least 21 years old
- Being single (not in a committed intimate or monogamous relationship, and not married or in the process of divorce/annulment)
- Legal U.S. residency
- Holding a valid government-issued passport
- Ability to provide two forms of identification verifying age and identity
- Not being a Netflix employee or currently running for public office
Casting emphasizes people who are “brave, open-minded, and ready for a committed relationship” and who prioritize finding genuine love over fame or social media clout. The application process is thorough: an initial lengthy questionnaire (covering personal background, relationship history, values, hobbies, views on children, and more), photos and/or a short video, followed for finalists by deeper compatibility questions, background checks, and psychological evaluations.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted through the official casting site associated with Kinetic Content (the production company), commonly linked as libcasting.com or casting.kineticcontent.com/LoveIsBlind/. Kinetic Content Casting has promoted the Georgia call on Instagram, inviting singles “tired of dating apps, and ready to prove that love is actually blind.”
No official deadline has been widely announced, and details on exact filming timelines or the final number of contestants remain unconfirmed. An upcoming season set in Boston is expected to debut in the fall, while the Georgia casting is positioned for a future installment.
Georgia’s return to the Love Is Blind map builds on the show’s roots in Atlanta and the proven success of some of its earliest couples. For singles in the state who are serious about finding a lifelong partner and open to an unconventional path, the pods are once again accepting applications. Those interested should review the full requirements and apply promptly through the official channels.
Because of the steady flow of movie and TV productions, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and it’s not just a label.. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.
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ATLANTA — Mercedes-Benz Stadium has earned dual nominations in USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards, recognized in both the Best NFL Stadium and Best NFL Stadium Food categories.
The Atlanta venue, home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, is one of the finalists competing for top honors based on fan voting. The Best NFL Stadium category highlights overall fan experience, design, amenities, and atmosphere, while the Best NFL Stadium Food category focuses on the quality, variety, and innovation of concessions offered to game-day attendees.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Nominated for Best NFL Stadium and Best Stadium Food in USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Awards
Mercedes-Benz Stadium has previously drawn praise for its retractable roof, 360-degree halo board, and emphasis on local and diverse food options that go beyond traditional stadium fare. The dual nominations place the venue among the leading NFL facilities nationwide in the annual fan-driven poll.
Fans can vote for their favorites through USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice platform. Winners will be determined by public votes and announced later in the awards cycle.
The recognition underscores Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s continued standing as a premier destination for NFL fans seeking both an impressive venue and elevated game-day dining.
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Ponce City Market in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward remains one of the city’s most vibrant destinations year-round. Housed in a historic former Sears building and connected to the Atlanta BeltLine, it combines a lively food hall, unique shops, outdoor spaces, and rooftop fun.
One of my favorite things to do in Midtown is to head to Ponce City Market. As temperatures cool in fall 2026 (September through November), the market offers a mix of recurring events, seasonal vibes, and classic attractions perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Spring brings warmer days perfect for rooftop play, fresh food openings, outdoor strolls, and buzzing events in the heart of the Old Fourth Ward. Entry is free, and it’s ideal for a full-day adventure. Parking is on-site (typically $1 for the first half-hour, with daily maxes—check the PCM app for real-time rates).
Ponce City Market: What To Do There This Fall
Whether you’re people-watching in the bustling Central Food Hall, grabbing skyline views from the roof, or exploring ongoing events, PCM is a year-round spot for locals and visitors alike.
Entry to the market is free, and it’s perfect for a full day out. Parking is available on-site (rates start around $1 for the first half-hour, with daily maxes applying—check the app for current details).
1. Head to The Roof for Skyline Park and Epic Views
The rooftop is a highlight year-round, but spring amps up the outdoor fun at Skyline Park with mini-golf, carnival games, a three-story slide, and panoramic views of Midtown, Downtown, and Buckhead.
Later in the fall, expect the popular transition to winter activities. “Skate the Sky” ice skating has returned in previous years around late November on the rooftop terrace, often paired with igloos for cozy group hangs and festive vibes. Pair your visit with drinks or dining at spots like 9 Mile Station or 12 Cocktail Bar. Check the official Roof site for current hours, tickets, and exact seasonal openings, as they can vary with weather.
- Pair it with drinks and bites at 9 Mile Station for elevated cocktails and skyline dining.
- SK8 the Roof (roller skating) returns in April 2026—perfect for spring evenings (available April–August).
- Family-friendly events continue, including potential pop-ups and gatherings in The Yard.
- Admission: Around $15 for adults, $7 for kids (prices may vary; often free for young children). Tickets available at the ground-floor booth or online.
Pro tip: The Roof also features seasonal activations, like the popular Skate the Sky ice rink in winter months.
2. Dive into the Central Food Hall
Photo credit: youtube.com The food hall pulses as PCM’s heart, with global flavors from artisanal vendors and top chefs—ideal for spring grazing.
- H&F Burger still delivers top-tier burgers (try the house ketchup or veggie option).
- Exciting updates: Terminal 26 (new Thai concept) is slated for spring 2026 in the former W.H. Stiles space.
- Big news for spring—two chef-driven Japanese spots open soon: NoriFish (sushi with fresh Toyosu Market seafood) and Okiboru (Michelin Bib Gourmand ramen/tsukemen), replacing earlier closures like Ton Ton and Miso Ko.
- Plant-based fans love options from the Slutty Vegan family (e.g., Bar Vegan), plus variety from recent additions like Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.
Open daily for breakfast through late-night bites—grab outdoor seating when the weather cooperates.
3. Check Out Local Makers & Artisans
Fall is prime time for supporting Atlanta creators. Blooms Market at Ponce typically returns on the second Saturday of the month at The Shed along the BeltLine, featuring a curated mix of local artists, makers, food vendors, handmade goods, and live music.
The Village Retail Saturday Maker’s Market also runs select Saturdays (including dates in September and November 2026), showcasing artisans, creators, and small businesses. These markets create a festive, community-oriented atmosphere ideal for finding unique gifts or seasonal treats while strolling the BeltLine.
PCM’s retail mix includes national brands, local makers, and unique boutiques across multiple floors.
- Must-visits: West Elm for home goods, Anthropologie and J.Crew for fashion, Warby Parker for eyewear, and Citizen Supply for artisan crafts.
- Support local with spots like The Village Retail (focusing on Black-owned businesses) and handmade goods from Atlanta creators.
- Don’t miss building your own bouquet at floral shops or browsing sustainable apparel.
Shopping hours are generally 10 a.m.–9 p.m. weekdays/Saturdays, shorter on Sundays.
Catch Events and Weekly Happenings:
- Placita at Ponce: Weekly Friday block party in the Food Hall with music, vibes, and more.
- Guided tastings, cocktail classes, and winery tours at spots like City Winery.
- Run clubs, makers markets, and seasonal pop-ups—check poncecitymarket.com/events for the latest.
5. Stroll the BeltLine and Explore the Neighborhood
Photo credit: AtlantaFi.com Step right out onto the Eastside Trail for walking, biking, or people-watching. It’s a seamless connection to nearby spots like Historic Fourth Ward Park.Ponce City Market evolves while staying true to its roots as a community hub.
With new openings on the horizon and timeless attractions like the rooftop views and food hall energy, it’s a can’t-miss Atlanta experience in 2026.
Catch Weekend and Evening Happenings at PCM
- Placita at Ponce: Weekly Friday block party vibes in the Food Hall with music and energy.
- Regulars like City Winery tours/tastings (multiple in March), Atlanta Run Club meets, and cocktail classes at The Upper Room.
- Check poncecitymarket.com/events for makers markets, yoga on The Yard (e.g., with Lululemon), run clubs, and seasonal pop-ups.
- The seasonal Ponce City Farmers Market operates Tuesdays (typically 4–8 p.m.) under The Shed at the BeltLine entrance through the fall (often into November). It’s a producer-only market focused on local farmers, artisanal makers, and pop-up chefs—unique in Georgia for its strong pedestrian and cyclist access via the BeltLine.
- Stock up on seasonal produce, prepared foods, and specialty items while enjoying the outdoor setting. Parking perks are sometimes available for market shoppers—verify details on-site or via the market’s info.
Final Word
Download the PCM app for maps, directories, and real-time updates!For more Atlanta hotspots, stay tuned to your local news source. What’s your favorite spot at PCM? Let us know in the comments!
Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods and one of the best places to eat on the southside. The street’s walkable, trendy vibe, enhanced by vibrant murals and restored brick storefronts, draws food enthusiasts and supports a burgeoning dining scene.
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Do you want to be a part of a viral video series? Know’s your chance. CAB Castings is now casting audience members for the LIVE taping of the new YouTube competition series “The Spell Off Live!” filming in Atlanta, GA.
They’re looking for energetic men and women, ages 21 and older, to be part of the excitement as this brand-new series makes its debut.
Now Casting: The Spell Off Live!
Hosted by DC Young Fly, with Funny Marco, the show brings together celebrities, comedians, athletes, digital creators, and special guests for a fun, fast-paced spelling competition unlike anything you’ve seen before.
This isn’t your typical game show. It’s a live entertainment experience filled with comedy, unexpected moments, audience interaction, and nonstop energy. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s feels like behind the scenes of a live television production while being part of the action, this is your opportunity!
FILMING DATES:
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 @ 8pm
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 @ 8pm
Additional filming dates will be announced.( Filming will always be on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings)AUDIENCE CALL TIME: 8:00 PM
ESTIMATED DURATION: Approximately 4.5 hours
The allotted amount of time includes check-in, security, audience seating, and production needs prior to the start of the taping.AUDIENCE STIPEND: $50 Gift Card
Please Note: Audience members must remain for the entire taping in order to receive the participation stipend.AUDIENCE ATTIRE:
Come camera-ready in stylish, fashionable attire. Solid colors are encouraged. Please avoid clothing with large logos, busy patterns, or inappropriate graphics.If interested and available, please send an email to audience@cabcastings.com
Subject Line: SPELL OFF Audience – (Date Applying For)
Your email should include:- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Age
- Height
- Which filming date you are available for (August 11 or August 12)
- Are you able to report to Atlanta, GA?
- Are you available for the entire taping?
- Two recent photos (one headshot and one full-length photo)
Please include all of the requested information above for proper consideration.
If selected, a member of the CAB Castings team will contact you with additional details and booking confirmation.
Because of the steady flow of movie and TV productions, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and it’s not just a label.. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.
Coming 2 America is just one of many films filmed in Atlanta. See our Movies Page for more.
Are you interested in becoming an actorin Atlanta? You’re in the right place!
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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Major Harris, the 18-year-old son of rapper T.I. and singer Tameka “Tiny” Harris, did some major recently: He got his driver’s license.
After that, he accidentally struck his older brother King while attempting to park a car. The hilarious clip went viral on social media on August 5, 2026.
Hilarious: T.I., Tiny’s Son Accidentally Hits Brother with Car
According to the video, Major is still learning the finer points of parking after getting his driver’s license. His father had the vehicle—an Audi—brought to him. While parking, Major appears to misjudge the space, resulting in the car making contact with King, who was standing nearby next to another vehicle. King ends up pressed between the cars for a moment before reacting; the footage shows him leaning on the hood and then walking away while laughing.
Major Philant Harris, born May 16, 2008, is the younger of the two sons T.I. and Tiny share together (along with their daughter Heiress). Unlike his musically inclined brothers, he is the more reserved, academically focused sibling who appeared on the family’s reality series T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle. King (Clifford “King” Joseph Harris III), born August 25, 2004, is a rapper and social media personality who has faced prior legal issues related to traffic stops.
The Harris family has long shared glimpses of everyday life—both the polished and the imperfect—with the public through reality television and social media.
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The U.S. Senate on Wednesday confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in a 51-44 vote, giving the nation’s leading public health agency its first Senate-confirmed permanent leader in nearly a year.
Schwartz, a retired rear admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and former deputy surgeon general during President Donald Trump’s first term, assumes the role amid ongoing challenges at the CDC.
Senate Confirms Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director, Ending Yearlong Leadership Vacuum
These include a resurgence of measles, a multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak, an Ebola outbreak in Africa, significant staff reductions through layoffs and resignations, and lingering questions about the agency’s independence under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The vote largely followed party lines, with only one Democrat, Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, joining Republicans in support. Five senators did not vote. Schwartz becomes the first Black woman to lead the CDC.
A board-certified preventive medicine physician, Schwartz holds degrees in biomedical engineering and medicine from Brown University, a master of public health, and a law degree from the University of Maryland. She previously served as the U.S. Coast Guard’s chief medical officer and has experience responding to outbreaks including Ebola and H1N1, as well as standing up COVID-19 testing sites.
Schwartz has publicly supported childhood vaccines. During her confirmation process, she affirmed that vaccines are safe and effective, noted that she has personally administered thousands of vaccines for military force health protection, and described vaccines as a cornerstone of prevention. She has also emphasized restoring trust in public health institutions through transparency and scientific integrity.
Her nomination and confirmation come after a period of instability. The previous confirmed director, Susan Monarez, was removed in August 2025 after less than a month in the role following reported clashes with Kennedy over vaccine policy. Acting leadership, most recently by NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, followed.
Senators, including Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-La.), pressed Schwartz during her hearing on her willingness to resist political pressure on scientific matters. Cassidy ultimately supported her confirmation after additional conversations, expressing confidence in her ability to lead.
Schwartz takes the helm of an agency that has faced morale challenges and workforce reductions of nearly a quarter in recent years. Public health observers will be watching closely how she navigates ongoing disease threats and the broader policy environment surrounding vaccines and chronic disease prevention.
