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In a drama that could rival any episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, city police have dropped bodycam video showing reality TV icon Porsha Williams getting booted from a Delta flight after a heated exchange turned physical mid-air.
The Sunday night showdown, which unfolded en route from Las Vegas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, has fans buzzing about whether this is just another chapter in Williams’ headline-grabbing life or a case of cabin fever gone wrong.
Atlanta Police: Porsha Williams Flight Turns To Fight
According to the Atlanta Police Department, the dust-up started as a simple beef over phone etiquette but quickly spiraled into accusations of assault.
Williams, fresh off a Vegas getaway and no stranger to on-screen squabbles, was deep into her Instagram scroll with the volume cranked up—think full-blast Reels echoing through the cabin.
Her seatmate, clearly not vibing with the soundtrack, finally snapped after 25 minutes of what she called “jarring” noise.
What Went Down: A Play-by-Play from the Bodycam
The footage paints a chaotic picture of a flight that’s anything but smooth sailing:
- The Spark: Williams is glued to her phone, blasting videos. The other passenger, fed up, turns and quips, “So, am I going to have to listen to that the whole flight?” Williams fires back casually, “Well, do you want to?” The tone? Tense from jump.
- The Escalation: The passenger claims Williams got snippy about her delivery, leading to a verbal volley. Hands fly up—literally. The woman says Williams’ manicured nails came inches from her face, screaming “crazy” and other choice words while the plane was still taxiing for takeoff. Crew? Strapped in and helpless.
- The Phone Fumble: Desperate to document the drama, the passenger whips out her cell to record. That’s when things allegedly go next-level: She accuses Williams of swatting the phone right out of her grip, sending it skidding down the aisle like a rejected prop in a bad rom-com. A flight attendant reportedly witnessed the whole thing, calling it straight-up assault.
Once wheels touched down at ATL around 7 p.m., Delta crew called in the badges. Officers swooped in, separating the two like feuding housewives at a reunion taping.
Williams, ever the poised Peach State queen, calmly explained her side to the cop on camera: “So, the lady who was sitting next to me, I was on my phone and the volume was up… She turned to me out of nowhere and said, ‘So you’re going to make me listen to that the whole flight?’ And I said, ‘Well, do you want to?’ She said, ‘No.’ She tried to cut her phone, record, and she drops her phone on the floor. She’s like, ‘You hit me. Oh my God, you hit me.’ And I’m like, what’s happening?”
Not buying the victim narrative? The other passenger tells a flipped script: “After about 25 minutes of her on Instagram, full blast… I said, ‘Am I going to have to listen to that the whole time?’ and she said, ‘Do you like it?’… The next thing I know, there was a fingernail so close to my eye… She had her hands in my face, screaming… So, I take it to video to try and protect myself. And as soon as I go like this, she takes her hand and goes like that and throws my phone… And the flight attendant told me he saw her knock it out of my hand. And that’s assault.”
Official Word: Separation, Scrutiny, and a Side of Shade
APD kept it cool, noting both women were interviewed on the spot and sent their separate ways—no arrests, no cuffs, just a whole lot of he-said-she-said. But the feds aren’t letting it slide: The FBI’s now poking around to see if Uncle Sam wants to press charges.
Williams’ legal eagle? She’s throwing shade from the sidelines, insisting her client was the one minding her business. “Ms. Williams was verbally assaulted by an irate and unhinged passenger without provocation,” the attorney fired off in a statement.
For Williams superfans, this feels like déjà vu—remember her explosive RHOA exits and entrances?
The Bravo babe, who’s juggled motherhood, mogul moves, and messy marriages, hasn’t commented publicly yet beyond that bodycam chat. Delta? Crickets so far, but expect the airline to chime in if the investigation heats up.
As Atlanta’s go-to for all things unscripted and over-the-top, we’re glued to this one. Will it spill into Season 16 tea? Stay tuned—because in Hotlanta, the drama’s always first class. Got RHOA hot takes? Hit us up in the comments.
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In a plot twist straight out of Hawkins, Indiana, the beloved exterior of the Wheeler family home from Netflix’s Stranger Things has been snapped up by a pair of super-fans right here in metro Atlanta.
The unassuming two-story brick residence at 2530 Piney Wood Lane in East Point—familiar to millions as the backdrop for Eleven’s awkward teen hangouts and family dinners—sold for $365,000 on October 27, just weeks before the show’s highly anticipated fifth and final season drops on November 26.
Stranger Things Home Purchased by Super-Fans
The new owners, a couple who relocated to the Atlanta area in 2021, couldn’t hide their disbelief when the deal closed. “We didn’t think it would ever be possible,” the wife told Homes.com.
For years, the duo—avid Stranger Things enthusiasts—would cruise by the 1963-built, 2,466-square-foot charmer during drives through the quiet East Point neighborhood, dreaming of one day calling it their own.
Little did they know, fate (or perhaps a Demogorgon-sized stroke of luck) had other plans.
Love stranger things? Read up on Atlanta film locations.
The house, with its retro wood-paneled living room, cozy brick fireplace, and sliding doors opening to a back patio, oozes authentic 1980s nostalgia—perfect for evoking the eerie vibes of the Upside Down.
While interior scenes were filmed on soundstages elsewhere, the exterior has become a pilgrimage site for fans, drawing admirers from across the globe to snap photos of its familiar facade.
The buyers’ journey to homeownership reads like a feel-good episode script.
Already rooted in East Point after purchasing another property in the area, the couple first learned of the listing via social media. The wife, who once appeared as an extra on the show, wasted no time looping in their real estate agent, Giovany Gonzalez-Rios of Keller Williams Realty Metro Atlanta.
Their initial offer was edged out in a bidding war, but as a savvy backup, it sprang to life when the top bidder backed out.
“We paid $15,000 over asking to make it happen,” Gonzalez-Rios revealed, recounting the couple’s determination.
A heartfelt letter to Netflix, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the home’s legacy, may have sealed the deal—though the streaming giant hasn’t commented publicly. “Once I got the confirmation, they were ecstatic,” the agent added with a grin. “Everything happens for a reason.”
For this growing family, the purchase is more than a celebrity address; it’s a canvas for new memories. In the midst of adopting children, the couple envisions raising their kids amid the same whimsical walls that sheltered Mike, Nancy, and the gang.
“We are growing our family through adoption and hope that our children will enjoy their childhood just as much as the Wheeler kids did,” they wrote in a note shared with the neighborhood. “We will honor the neighborhood and the legacy of this house and will be available for any future projects and/or reunions.”
Renovations? Not on the horizon, at least not the drastic kind. The pair plans to keep the home’s iconic charm intact, opting for subtle updates to blend modern comfort with mid-century flair. They’ll ease into the move over Thanksgiving weekend, renting out their current East Point residence in the meantime.
And to fellow fans: You’re welcome to slow down for a peek—just no portal-hopping onto the lawn.
As Stranger Things bids farewell next month, this East Point gem ensures the Wheeler house’s story endures, now starring a real-life family ready to flip the script on happily ever after.
For more on Atlanta’s hottest home sales and hidden gems, stay tuned to Atlanta Homes Daily.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for all things residential in the Peach State—from historic renovations to celebrity sightings in the ‘hood.
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A new coffee table book — Delta: 100 Years & Climbing — chronicles the airline’s remarkable journey from its 1925 beginnings as a crop-dusting operation in Macon, Georgia, to becoming a global aviation leader headquartered right here in Atlanta.
The book is a continuation of Delta and the Delta Flight Museum’s Centennial celebrations.
Written by New York-based journalist Mark Ellwood and organized by decade, Delta: 100 Years & Climbing brings the airline’s story to life through breathtaking photography and never-before-shared stories.
Pre-orders for the beautifully crafted volume open November 18, exclusively at assouline.com.
Readers will trace the evolution of Delta’s iconic fleet, branding, and route network, plus meet the generations of Atlanta-area employees who have been the heart of the company for a century.
Highlights include Delta’s first passenger flight in 1929, the arrival of the jet age with the DC-8, the pioneering women who broke barriers in the cockpit, and modern Atlanta-led innovations like in-flight Wi-Fi and the game-changing Delta One suites.
The Delta Flight Museum, located at Delta’s world headquarters near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, played a central role in curating rare photographs, vintage advertisements, and authentic stories that make the book a true keepsake of aviation history.
“Preserving Delta’s history is about honoring the people and moments that shaped aviation and inspiring future generations to keep pushing the boundaries,” said Gail Grimmett, President of the Delta Flight Museum. “This book celebrates the Delta people — many of them proud Atlantans — whose spirit of innovation and resilience brought us here, reminding us how far we’ve come and how much further we can go if we keep climbing, together.”
Delta: 100 Years & Climbing officially launches December 15 and will be available at Assouline boutiques, select retailers, and online at www.assouline.com. It’s the perfect holiday gift for aviation buffs, history lovers, frequent flyers, and anyone who calls Atlanta home.
Pre-order your copy today at www.assouline.com and own a piece of Atlanta’s aviation legacy.
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Hey, Atlanta foodies! It’s no secret that the best hotels often have the best restaurants. Hotel restaurants often fly under the radar, but in Georgia’s largest city, they’re shining brighter than ever—blending world-class hospitality with innovative Southern twists and global flair.
As your go-to local spot for all things delicious in the ATL, we’re always on the hunt for those hidden gems that elevate our city’s already stellar dining scene.
In this article, we’ve researched the top hotel restaurants in Atlanta. Yes, this one’s all about hotel eats!
Atlanta’s Hotels: Come for the Sheets, Stay for the Eats
Whether you’re planning a fancy night out, a business lunch, or just craving that perfect steak, these spots deliver.
We’ve rounded up seven standouts based on buzz, flavor profiles, and that unmistakable ATL vibe. For each, we’ve pulled a glowing highlight, plus the deets to make your reservation a breeze. Bon appétit!
1. Il Premio at The Fourth Hotel
800 Rankin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (470) 470-8010
Tucked into the sultry vibes of Old Fourth Ward, Il Premio is your ultimate romantic date night spot with dim lighting, velvet couches, and a grand piano setting the mood.
It’s a sleek haven for corporate dinners too, thanks to seamless service. The menu’s crown jewels? Nine cuts of steak, from tender filet mignon to luxurious Miyazaki wagyu, plus a standout bucatini all’amatriciana in a creamy, tangy tomato sauce laced with cured pork cheek—pure indulgence.
2. Fia Restaurant at The Burgess Hotel
3600 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 949-1450
Buckhead’s Fia channels rustic Mediterranean magic through wood-fired grilling, making it ideal for coworker cheers or cozy date nights in its intimate dining room or casual lounge.
Don’t sleep on the lightly charred branzino with fresh herbs and pickled fennel, the melt-in-your-mouth short rib, or shrimp saganaki scooped up with grilled bread—it’s flavor fireworks every time.
3. Nobu Atlanta at Nobu Hotel Atlanta
3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (470) 945-8800
For that upscale thrill with a side of celebrity spotting (A-listers love it), Nobu delivers sleek, texture-rich interiors and bold bites like the iconic sweet miso-glazed black cod.
Pro tip: Dive into the hot and cold plates up front for max flavor bang for your buck—it’s elevated Japanese-Peruvian fusion at its finest in Buckhead.
4. Bar Margot at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 881-5913
Midtown’s Bar Margot is a all-day winner, from breakfast to late-night bites, in a spacious mezzanine overlooking a grand staircase—perfect for laptop sessions or private booths.
It never misses: Think vegan jollof rice with meaty oyster mushrooms or the legendary juicy Bar Margot Burger piled with crispy bacon and charred red onions. A true ATL treasure!
5. Tiny Lou’s at Clermont Hotel
789 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (470) 485-0085
This Poncey-Highland pink-hued French brasserie feels like a glamorous Barbie dreamhouse crossed with classic Paris, dishing out steak frites and duck confit that hit all the right notes.
It’s prime for friend hangouts or date nights, with rooftop bar options nearby—cap it off with the dreamy layered crepe cake for dessert bliss.
6. By George at The Candler Hotel
127 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (470) 851-2752
Downtown’s By George oozes historic charm in a 1906 building with French brasserie energy and killer street views (bonus: Marta streetcar sightings).
Nail the basics with a grilled cheese and tomato soup sandwich or classic burger and fries, then swoon over the fluffy Coconut Tres Leches for a sweet finish—timeless and satisfying.
7. Capolinea at Signia by Hilton Atlanta
159 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 223-4414
Photo credit: Capolinea Overlooking Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Capolinea’s red-sauce Italian-American scene is elevated with tableside martinis and upscale gems like spaghetti pomodoro or tender short rib.
It’s a satisfying rotation addition for date nights, blending comfort with wow-factor views and flavors.
Final Bite
There you have it, ATL—hotel dining that’s as accessible as it is exceptional. These spots are booking up fast, so snag a table and let us know your faves in the comments. What’s your next culinary adventure? Stay hungry, friends!
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Buckhead Village is swapping Southern charm for alpine allure this holiday season, kicking off its Après Ski-inspired winter wonderland on Saturday, November 22.
The upscale shopping and dining district will deck its streets with glittering snow-capped trees, crackling fire pits, vintage ski gear, and ski-lift photo ops, inviting locals and visitors to escape the city bustle for a mountaintop-style getaway right in the heart of Atlanta.
Buckhead Village Après Ski Preview
Beginning the week before Thanksgiving, visitors will be transported to a mountaintop getaway complete with glittering snow-capped trees, crackling fires worthy of a cozy fireside lodge, ski-lift photo ops, snowy craft cocktails, plush decorations, and vintage ski gear that tap into the nostalgia of the golden eras of Alpine glamour.
Buckhead Village’s Après backdrop will offer a snow-kissed escape from the city, filled with endless holiday cheer and memorable moments.
Seasonal Menus
Snowy craft cocktails, spiked hot cocoa, raclette stations, and fondue pop-ups at restaurants like Le Bilboquet and The Southern Gentleman.
Final Word
As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.
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In a city known for its booming tech scene, film industry, and remote work culture, having blazing-fast internet isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re streaming 4K content from Tyler Perry Studios, uploading massive files for your startup in Midtown, or battling it out in online gaming from your Buckhead condo, Atlanta residents demand top-tier speeds. But which provider truly delivers the fastest internet in the Peach State’s capital?
Who Has the Fastest Internet Service in Atlanta?
As of late 2025, the crown for the fastest widely available residential internet speeds in Atlanta goes to AT&T Fiber, with symmetrical plans reaching up to 5 Gbps (5,000 Mbps) download and upload.
That’s enough bandwidth to download a full HD movie in seconds or handle dozens of devices without a hiccup.
Why AT&T Fiber Takes the Lead
- Maximum Speeds: AT&T Fiber offers plans up to 5 Gbps in many parts of the metro area, including popular neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and parts of Decatur. This is symmetrical fiber — meaning uploads are just as fast as downloads, perfect for video calls, cloud backups, and content creators.
- Availability: AT&T Fiber covers about 50-65% of Atlanta homes, with ongoing expansions pushing into more suburbs.
- Real-World Performance: Independent tests from sources like Ookla’s Speedtest consistently rank fiber providers highly, and AT&T’s multi-gig plans outperform cable in reliability during peak hours.
Close contenders include:
- EarthLink Fiber (which often runs on AT&T’s network): Also up to 5 Gbps, making it essentially tied for the top spot where available.
- Google Fiber: Up to 8 Gbps advertised in select areas, but current rollout in Atlanta tops out at 2-5 Gbps for most users, with limited coverage (around 7-10% of the city). Google Fiber shines in real-world median speeds (often over 300-400 Mbps consistently) according to Speedtest data.
- Xfinity (Comcast): Advertises up to 10 Gbps in very limited fiber pockets, but most Atlantans get cable internet maxing at 1.2-2 Gbps download (with much slower uploads around 200 Mbps).
Advertised vs. Actual Speeds: What Atlantans Really Get
While marketing claims can hit double digits, real-world factors like network congestion, wiring, and distance from the node matter.
Fiber optic service (AT&T, Google, EarthLink) almost always delivers closer to advertised speeds and symmetrical performance.
Cable (Xfinity) dominates coverage (nearly 90% of Atlanta) but can slow down during evening “prime time.”
Recent Speedtest data from Ookla shows Google Fiber leading in median download speeds citywide (around 347 Mbps), thanks to its efficient network — but that’s median, not maximum.
For raw top-end power, AT&T’s 5 Gbps plans are the go-to for power users lucky enough to have access.
How to Check What’s Available at Your Address
Availability varies block-by-block in Atlanta’s patchwork of neighborhoods:
- Enter your address on provider sites: AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, or Xfinity.
- Multi-gig speeds require compatible equipment (like a modern router) and often professional installation.
The Bottom Line
If your address qualifies for AT&T Fiber’s 5 Gbps plan, that’s currently the fastest residential internet you can get in Atlanta from a major provider — and it’s symmetrical, reliable, and priced competitively (starting around $55/mo for lower tiers, with multi-gig plans higher).
Google Fiber remains a fan favorite for its no-nonsense pricing and stellar performance where it’s built out, and expansions continue. Xfinity wins on sheer availability but lags on upload speeds.
Atlanta’s internet landscape is one of the best in the South, but the “fastest” ultimately depends on your zip code. Check availability today — your next Zoom call (or Fortnite victory) might thank you!
If you really want to save money, you may be close enough to a public Wi-Fi hotspot that would make it unnecessary for you to even purchase home internet.
Depending on where you live, you may have some free internet options. Do your research before you buy anything.
Final Word
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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The City of Atlanta is stepping up efforts to combat lead exposure by launching a comprehensive free Lead Hazard Reduction Training program open to all individuals aged 18 and older, as well as industry professionals.
The initiative, fully funded by the city, covers all courses, training materials, and certification exams at no cost to participants.
Officials say the program aims to equip residents, contractors, and property managers with the skills needed to identify and safely reduce lead hazards in homes and buildings.
Who Can Participate?
- General public: Any Atlanta resident 18+
- Industry professionals: Contractors, renovators, painters, plumbers, and property maintenance workers
- No prior experience required
Training Details
The program includes EPA-approved courses such as:
- Lead-Safe Certified Renovator (Initial & Refresher)
- Lead Dust Sampling Technician
- Lead Abatement Worker/Supervisor
All classes are held at city-approved training centers with flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend options. Upon completion, participants receive nationally recognized certifications valid for lead-related work.
Why It Matters
Atlanta’s housing stock includes thousands of pre-1978 homes where lead-based paint was commonly used. The CDC estimates that over 5,000 Atlanta children are affected by elevated blood lead levels annually, often from deteriorating paint, dust, or soil contamination.
This training isn’t just about compliance — it’s about prevention. Every certified individual becomes part of the solution.
How to Register
Spots are limited and filling quickly. Interested individuals can:
- Visit atlanta.gov/leadtraining
- Call the Lead Safety Hotline: (404) 546-LEAD
- Email leadprogram@atlantaga.gov
Some training courses have already happened. The first training cohort for the Lead Instructor Refresher begins December 2, 2025, with other sessions happening that week and the next.
This program is made possible through federal HUD grants and city partnerships with local trade organizations.
Final Word
Jobs are hard to find, but job content shouldn’t be. 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.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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As the leaves turn and the holiday season approaches, a sobering economic chill is settling over Atlanta’s vibrant neighborhoods—from the bustling streets of Midtown to the family homes in Decatur.
New data from ATTOM, a leading provider of land and property data, reveals that U.S. foreclosure activity has climbed for the eighth consecutive month, with a 9% year-over-year increase in September 2025.
U.S. Foreclosure Surge Hits Home in the Peach State
This persistent uptick signals growing financial strain for homeowners nationwide, and Georgia’s capital city is feeling the pinch more acutely than most.
The report, released this week, shows that one in every 3,456 U.S. housing units received a foreclosure filing during the third quarter of 2025, up 5% from the same period last year.
Defaults—the initial stage of foreclosure, often a lender’s first notice to a delinquent borrower—jumped 21% year-over-year, while scheduled auctions rose 7% and bank repossessions increased 3%.
Experts attribute the trend to lingering inflation, rising interest rates, and uneven job recovery in sectors like hospitality and logistics, which are staples of Atlanta’s economy.
For Atlantans, the numbers hit close to home. Metro Atlanta ranked among the top 10 markets for foreclosure starts in the quarter, with a rate of one in every 2,145 homes facing some form of filing—more than double the national average.
This places Fulton County at the epicenter, where filings spiked 15% from Q2, driven by underwater mortgages in areas like East Atlanta Village and parts of Clayton County.
The broader picture underscores Atlanta’s vulnerability.
Georgia as a state saw a 12% increase in foreclosure activity, outpacing the national figure and reflecting the region’s reliance on service industries battered by post-pandemic shifts.
While the city’s tech boom in areas like Buckhead offers some buffer, lower-income suburbs such as South Fulton are bearing the brunt, with repossessions up 18% year-over-year.
Nationally, the heat map of foreclosures paints a stark portrait of Rust Belt and Southern struggles.
The top five metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for foreclosure rates in Q3 2025 are dominated by cities grappling with deindustrialization and housing affordability crises. Here’s a breakdown:
Rank Metropolitan Area Foreclosure Rate (Q3 2025) Year-over-Year Change 1 Columbia, SC 1 in 1,456 homes +14% 2 Indianapolis, IN 1 in 1,678 homes +11% 3 Virginia Beach, VA 1 in 1,789 homes +9% 4 Atlanta, GA 1 in 1,945 homes +12% 5 Detroit, MI 1 in 2,012 homes +16% Source: ATTOM Q3 2025 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report
These figures highlight a troubling concentration: Southern and Midwestern markets like Atlanta are seeing filings at rates far exceeding coastal powerhouses such as New York or San Francisco.
In Columbia, the top-ranked city, economic fallout from manufacturing layoffs has fueled a 14% surge, while Detroit’s long-standing auto industry woes continue to erode homeownership stability.
Local leaders are responding with urgency. Mayor Andre Dickens is doubling down on affordability initiatives across the city, offering low-interest loans and counseling for at-risk borrowers.
As 2025 draws to a close, the foreclosure wave serves as a stark reminder of the fragility beneath Atlanta’s phoenix-like rise.
With federal aid programs set to expire next year, residents are urged to check resources like Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs for early intervention.
What Atlanta Is Doing To Promote Housing Affordability
Mayor Dickens launched a comprehensive plan to build or preserve 20,000 units of high-quality, affordable housing across Atlanta by 2030, targeting legacy residents, low-income households, and the unhoused.
As of late 2024, over 3,000 units have been delivered, with nearly 5,000 more in development, and 11,000 total completed or under construction. This includes using federal funds like ARPA for direct investments.
In another example, Mayor Dickens secured a $60 million bond—the largest single investment in homelessness in Atlanta’s history—to create up to 700 new deeply affordable units by the end of 2025.
This includes 200 permanent supportive housing units with on-site services and 500 quick-delivery modular units on city-owned land, aimed at rapidly housing the unhoused.
Final Word
In a city that’s always reinvented itself, the question now is: Can Atlanta forestall the next chapter of hardship?
For help with a pending foreclosure, read our guide on how to stop foreclosures in Georgia.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on economic recovery efforts.
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In a move that could send shockwaves through the Southeast’s telecommunications workforce, Verizon Communications Inc., the nation’s largest wireless provider, is poised to slash approximately 15,000 jobs nationwide as early as next week.
The sweeping cuts, representing about 15% of the company’s U.S. workforce, mark the biggest layoffs in Verizon’s history and come amid intensifying competition in the wireless and home internet markets.
Massive Layoffs Ahead for Verizon
The announcement, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, underscores the pressures facing legacy telecom giants as they grapple with subscriber losses and rising operational costs.
Verizon, which employed around 100,000 people as of February, has already trimmed nearly 20,000 positions over the past three years through voluntary programs and restructuring efforts.
This latest round targets non-union management roles primarily, with additional plans to convert about 200 retail stores into franchised operations—effectively shifting those employees off the company’s payroll.
For Atlanta, a burgeoning hub for tech and telecom innovation, the news hits particularly close to home.
Verizon maintains a significant presence in the Peach State, including its Southeast regional headquarters in Midtown Atlanta and numerous retail locations across the metro area, from Alpharetta to Buckhead to Decatur.
The company employs hundreds—if not thousands—in Georgia, supporting roles in network engineering, customer service, and sales. Local labor experts warn that even a fraction of these cuts could exacerbate unemployment in the city’s competitive job market.
Layoff Cause? Verizon’s Financial Troubles
Verizon’s challenges stem from a brutal industry landscape. The company has hemorrhaged postpaid phone subscribers for three straight quarters, losing 289,000 monthly wireless customers in the first quarter alone—more than double the prior year’s figure.
A bold price-hike strategy earlier this year backfired, alienating price-sensitive consumers who flocked to rivals like T-Mobile and AT&T offering aggressive discounts.
Meanwhile, in the home internet arena, Verizon’s fixed wireless and Fios offerings face stiff competition from cable providers and emerging 5G alternatives.
The layoffs coincide with the recent appointment of Daniel Schulman, former PayPal CEO, as Verizon’s new chief executive.
Schulman, named last month as the company’s lead independent director, has signaled an aggressive overhaul to “fundamentally restructure our expense base.
Despite the turbulence, Verizon reported mixed third-quarter results last month, with revenue up 1.5% to $33.8 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $1.21—beating Wall Street expectations. The firm added 306,000 broadband subscribers, reaffirming its 2025 guidance for 2% to 2.8% wireless service revenue growth.
In Atlanta, reactions are pouring in from affected workers and advocates.
“I’ve given 12 years to Verizon, climbing from retail to operations,” said Marcus Hale, a 38-year-old father of two from Smyrna, who fears for his job at a local store slated for potential franchising. “We’re not just numbers; we’re the ones keeping families connected. This feels like betrayal after all the 5G promises.”
As the cuts loom, investors appear unfazed: Verizon shares rose modestly in afternoon trading. Yet for everyday Atlantans, the human cost is stark.
Corporate Moves, Real Consequences
With Georgia’s unemployment rate hovering at 3.8% and inflation pinching household budgets, the telecom titan’s belt-tightening serves as a stark reminder of corporate priorities in an era of digital disruption.
This story is developing. AtlantaFi.com will provide updates on local impacts, including affected store locations and support resources for workers.
Final Word
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.
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Food lovers, mark your calendars! The second-annual North Highland Restaurant Week is in full swing, running through Thursday, November 13, bringing unbeatable deals and delicious fixed-price menus to the heart of Virginia-Highland and Morningside neighborhoods.
Presented by Heide Contracting and organized by the Virginia Highland District Association, this five-day culinary celebration showcases over two dozen local restaurants with special prix-fixe options at $10, $20, and $30 price points.
North Highland Restaurant Week Returns To Georgia
From casual bites to upscale dinners, there’s something for every palate and budget.
The festivities kicked off on Sunday, November 9, with the popular North Highland Wine Walk in Morningside Village.
Attendees enjoyed wine tastings at participating shops, live music, adult crafts, and shopping, all sponsored by Highland Fine Wine.
Tickets for the event, which included a commemorative glass, sold out quickly at $37.52 each.
“North Highland Restaurant Week is a true celebration of the incredible dining talent we have right here in our neighborhood,” said Katie Voelpel, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Virginia Highland District Association. “From casual bites to upscale dining, our participating restaurants are crafting unique menus that showcase why this area is a top destination for food lovers in Atlanta.” 20
Highlights from participating spots include:
- Doc Chey’s Noodle House: A $30 Dim Sum Feast featuring an array of Pan-Asian delights.
- Ela: Mediterranean mezze and coastal vibes with special offerings perfect for sharing. 16
- Classics like La Tavola Trattoria, Murphy’s, Whiskey Bird, and Bar.bacoa are also joining in with curated menus that highlight their signatures.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting from out of town, this is the perfect opportunity to explore new flavors, rediscover old favorites, and support the vibrant small businesses that make these neighborhoods so special.
With just a few days left, reservations are recommended—many spots are booking up fast! Check the full list of participating restaurants and menus on the Virginia Highland District website. 4
Don’t miss out on this tasty tradition—head to North Highland Avenue and dine your way through the week!
Final Word
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
