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STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — Nearly 500 employees at Stone Mountain Park face job uncertainty as the park’s current private operator prepares to cease operations, according to a state filing. The Stone Mountain Park layoffs, which could affect 497 workers across various roles, are tied to a change in management rather than a simple downsizing.
A Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice filed with Georgia’s Office of Workforce Development indicates that separations are expected to take effect on June 1, 2026.
Stone Mountain Park Layoffs: Major Staffing Overhaul as Private Operator Exits in June
The filing covers positions throughout the park, including gate attendants, maintenance staff, custodians, and other operational roles at Georgia’s popular tourist attraction.
Transition to New Operator
The Stone Mountain Park layoffs stem from the departure of Thrive SMP LLC, which has managed park operations since 2022.
On March 30, 2026, the Stone Mountain Memorial Association (the state entity overseeing the park) announced it had selected Stone Mountain Hospitality LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, as the next operator.
Thrive SMP and the association agreed to end their 10-year contract early, with operations transitioning at the end of May.
Aramark Destinations issued a statement emphasizing a smooth handover: “The Stone Mountain Memorial Association announced on March 30 that it has selected Stone Mountain Hospitality LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, as the next operator for the park. Stone Mountain Park employees will have the opportunity to apply for positions with Aramark Destinations as part of this transition.”
Current employees must reapply for jobs with the incoming operator or seek employment elsewhere. While the WARN notice technically frames the changes as layoffs, many workers may transition to the new management if rehired.
Financial Context and Lack of Official Reason in Filing
Reports indicate Thrive SMP operated at a $1.6 million loss as recently as April 2025, which may have contributed to the early contract termination.
However, the initial WARN filing did not specify a reason for the workforce changes, prompting some local outlets to note that officials had not yet provided a detailed explanation at the time of the announcement.
A law firm has begun investigating potential WARN Act compliance issues, questioning whether adequate advance notice was provided for the mass layoff affecting 497 employees.
Impact on Workers and the Park
The timing—just before the busy summer tourist season—has raised concerns among employees and parkgoers. Some workers expressed frustration over the sudden uncertainty.
Park officials and the incoming operator have pledged collaboration to minimize disruption and support the long-term success of the attraction, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually for its hiking trails, laser shows, and historic granite mountain carving.
Reactions from visitors have been mixed, with some expressing sympathy for affected staff while hoping the transition does not impact park experiences.
This development marks a significant shift for Stone Mountain Park, one of Georgia’s most visited outdoor destinations.
As the June 1 deadline approaches, affected employees are encouraged to monitor Aramark’s application process for potential continued employment at the park.
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Midtown Atlanta — You’ve got a new reason to eat in Midtown Atlanta. Blackjack Bar Tapas, the stylish Asian-fusion craft cocktail bar and tapas lounge, is rolling out some new offerings with the addition of weekday lunch service.
The popular spot is now open daily starting at noon, making it easier than ever for locals and visitors to enjoy its creative small plates and inventive drinks midday or into the evening.
Blackjack Bar Tapas New Hours: Daily
The restaurant’s updated hours are:
- Noon to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday
- Noon to midnight Friday and Saturday

Lobster Peanut Noodles | grilled lobster tail over creamy peanut noodles, grape tomato & chili oil.
The full food and drink menu is now available for both lunch and dinner service. Guests can look forward to the same lineup of Asian-inspired street-food tapas and reimagined classic cocktails throughout the day.
Founded in 2025 by sisters Niki and Tanya Pattharakositkul — the duo behind the acclaimed restaurant group 26 Thai — Blackjack Bar Tapas quickly established itself as a standout destination in Midtown.
The venue blends vibrant Asian-fusion flavors with a swanky, design-forward atmosphere that feels both dramatic and inviting.
Inside, the dimly lit bar glows under soft red lighting, accented by ornate golden chandeliers crafted from traditional Thai lanterns. Striking dragon heads and gently cascading fountains add movement and theatrical flair, creating an immersive experience that complements the bold menu offerings.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, an after-work cocktail, or a leisurely dinner with friends, Blackjack Bar Tapas delivers an elevated yet approachable take on Asian street food in one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
For the complete menu and more details, visit Blackjack Bar Tapas online or stop by their location in the heart of Midtown Atlanta.
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The James Beard Foundation on Tuesday announced its finalists for the 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, with two standout Atlanta establishments making the list.
The James Beard Awards rank among the highest honors in the American culinary world.
Two Atlanta Restaurants Named Finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards
They recognize outstanding talent in food, hospitality, and the broader food system, while highlighting a strong commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and inclusive excellence.
This year, Atlanta’s finalists advanced from a group of 11 Georgia semifinalists announced in January.0
Aria – Outstanding Hospitality

For the second year in a row, Buckhead’s Aria has earned a finalist spot in the Outstanding Hospitality category. This award celebrates restaurants that create a warm, welcoming environment for both guests and staff while maintaining high standards in food, service, atmosphere, and operations. Aria shares the category with notable nominees from Boise, Birmingham, Clayton (Missouri), and Los Angeles.0
Mujō and Chef J. Trent Harris – Best Chef: Southeast

West Midtown’s Japanese-inspired restaurant Mujō earned recognition through its chef, J. Trent Harris, who is a finalist for Best Chef: Southeast. The category features talented chefs from across the region, including nominees from South Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Carolina.0
Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation, celebrated the 2026 finalists in a press release marking the organization’s 40th anniversary: “As we mark 40 years… we’re reminded of just how vital it is to celebrate and champion the people driving American food culture forward.” She praised the honorees for their talent, leadership, and the powerful role food plays in our lives.0
The winners will be revealed at the James Beard Awards ceremony on June 15, 2026, in Chicago.
Congratulations to Aria, Mujō, and Chef J. Trent Harris for representing Atlanta on this prestigious national stage!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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SKOL Brewing Company, the boisterous Nordic-themed brewpub located in the historic 200 Peachtree building in Downtown Atlanta, has announced plans to expand into the adjacent space.
The popular spot, which opened in early 2025, already occupies a striking 5,000-square-foot area featuring a mix of more than 120 high-top, low, and comfortable seats, TVs throughout, a dramatic backlit bar, hardwood floors, and distinctive antler chandeliers.
Introducing SKOL Brewing’s Valhalla Gaming Lounge
The expansion will add approximately 30,000 square feet dedicated to the new Valhalla Gaming Lounge, transforming the venue into a comprehensive entertainment destination.
Portions of the new space are already available for private events, with a full opening scheduled for May.
The project is described more as an extension than a separate concept, leaning heavily into the growing “eatertainment” trend.
It will incorporate experiential bays, dedicated entertainment zones, and authentic regional cuisine and beverages throughout the expanded footprint.
Entertainment has been part of SKOL’s identity from the start, thanks to its partnership with American Axes for axe throwing. Valhalla Gaming Lounge promises to elevate the experience significantly with over 40 gaming options, including simulators, soccer experiences, bocce courts, billiard tables, darts, classic arcade games, and more.
Early discussions also mention the potential addition of a live-music stage and even a climbing wall.
“We are excited to be a part of a growing resurgence of interest and activity in Downtown,” said Drew Tull, Co-Creator of SKOL Brewing Company and president of the 200 Peachtree Group. “SKOL and Valhalla Gaming Lounge are designed to not only showcase Atlanta to out-of-town guests and conventioneers, but to create a destination for everyone.”
A Unique Nordic-Minnesotan Vibe with Southern Flair
Since opening in 2025, SKOL Brewing Company has quickly established itself as a standout destination by blending authentic regional cuisine and beverages with a fun, high-energy atmosphere.
The concept draws heavily from co-creator Drew Tull’s Minnesotan roots while paying homage to Southern traditions in a fresh, Viking-inspired way.
The menu, curated by Master Chef Rich Rosendale, highlights signature dishes such as Ellsworth Creamery cheese curds, smoked brisket poutine, and the playfully misspelled “Jucy Lucy” burger (a Minnesota classic featuring two beef patties stuffed with melted American cheese).
On the beverage side, SKOL offers nearly 20 of its own craft beers, each with creative, full-bodied profiles.
Standouts include the Northern Lights Lager, Big Daddy Rotating Pilsner, Space Wrangler Hazy IPA, and the fan-favorite SKOL Nation Cold IPA—brewed especially for Minnesota Vikings supporters.
True to Viking spirit (and U.S. Bank Stadium tradition), snow falls indoors every time the Vikings score, adding a memorable theatrical touch that also caps off each night.
The brewpub’s design and programming make it a natural hub for sports viewing, with abundant TVs and a lively vibe that appeals to both locals and visitors.
Its convenient location inside the 200 Peachtree building—near Peachtree Center MARTA and the Spring Street Streetcar—positions it perfectly for conventioneers, tourists, and downtown residents alike.
Building Momentum in Downtown Atlanta
The expansion into Valhalla Gaming Lounge aligns with broader efforts to revitalize Downtown Atlanta, especially as the city prepares to host major events, including the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
By combining SKOL’s acclaimed food and beer with extensive gaming and entertainment options, the venue aims to become a must-visit all-day, all-evening destination that goes far beyond traditional dining or drinking.
Whether guests come for the cheese curds and cold IPAs, axe throwing and sports watching, or the upcoming array of simulators, bocce, and arcade fun, SKOL and its forthcoming Valhalla extension promise an immersive experience that celebrates Nordic heritage, Minnesota pride, and Atlanta’s evolving downtown energy.
The full Valhalla Gaming Lounge is expected to open by May, with private event spaces already welcoming bookings.
For more details or reservations, visit the official SKOL Brewing Company website or follow updates on their social channels. SKOL!
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ROSWELL, Ga. — In honor of Apple’s 50th anniversary, the Mimms Museum of Technology and Art will debut its landmark exhibition iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Billed as the first-of-its-kind showcase, the new permanent exhibition features more than 2,000 artifacts spread across 20,000 square feet, making it the largest public display of Apple products in the world.
Mimms Museum in Roswell to debut landmark Apple exhibition
The exhibition highlights the evolution of one of the most influential technology companies in history, from its earliest days in a garage to its transformative impact on personal computing, mobile devices, and design.
Visitors can expect to see rare prototypes, original hardware, handwritten manuals, and immersive installations inspired by Apple’s iconic products and advertising campaigns.
Exclusive Preview with Apple’s Earliest Pioneers
Ahead of the public opening, the museum hosted an intimate preview weekend that brought together five of Apple’s earliest employees for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the company’s origins.
The highlight was a Legacy Dinner, where Chris Espinosa, Daniel Kottke, George Crow, Randy Wigginton, and Taylor Pohlman joined museum leadership for a private first look at the exhibition.
Guests explored original artifacts—including Apple II computers and rare early prototypes—while sharing personal stories from Apple’s formative years.
The evening wrapped up with a panel discussion reflecting on their experiences and the foundational innovations that shaped the company.
“Apple has fundamentally shaped how we experience technology in our daily lives,” said Lonnie Mimms, founder and CEO of the Mimms Museum. “Sharing this exhibition with some of the original minds behind these innovations, and seeing their reactions to the artifacts on display, was an incredibly meaningful way to introduce this new permanent exhibition.”
BYTE26 Fundraiser Raises Over $250,000
On Saturday, March 21, 2026, the museum also held its annual fundraiser, BYTE26, which welcomed a sold-out crowd for an exclusive early preview of the iNSPIRE exhibition.
The event, combined with contributions specifically supporting the new exhibition and the museum’s educational programming, raised more than $250,000.
The funds will help sustain the exhibition as well as the museum’s broader mission to preserve technological artifacts and deliver engaging educational programs.
The iNSPIRE exhibition opens to the public on April 1, 2026—fittingly the anniversary of Apple’s founding—with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. and doors opening at noon.
It is expected to become a major draw for technology enthusiasts, historians, and families in the Atlanta metro area and beyond.
For more information and tickets, visit the Mimms Museum of Technology and Art website at mimmsmuseum.org.
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Business3 Min Read
St. Julep, the stylish indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge atop Buckhead’s Kimpton Sylvan Hotel, has some spring in its step this season.
From Wednesday, April 1 through Tuesday, June 30, St. Julep will undergo a vibrant seasonal makeover.
St. Julep Goes for Spring in Bloom
The elevated space will become Spring in Bloom, an immersive pop-up experience that captures the beauty, color, and refreshing energy of spring.
Perched nine stories above East Paces Ferry Road, guests can escape into a garden oasis in the sky.
Expect lush floral installations, thoughtful décor, and fresh seasonal flavors that turn the rooftop into the perfect backdrop for golden hour drinks, romantic date nights, lively group gatherings, and everything in between.
Dedicated photo moments throughout the space invite visitors to capture the spring spirit against a stunning Atlanta skyline.

The pop-up’s highlight is a carefully curated menu of seasonal craft cocktails, each featuring refreshing, floral-inspired ingredients and beautiful presentation. Highlights include:
- Pink Thaw — Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Giffard Crème de Fraise des Bois, Giffard Crème de Framboise & lime
- Garden Blitz — Hendrick’s Gin, Giffard Crème de Pêche de Vigne, passionfruit & lemon
- A Smoke in the Garden — Rosaluna Mezcal, Whispering Angel Rosé, lime & simple syrup
- Lavender Margarita — Lalo Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, lime & lavender syrup
- Midnight Rain — Siete Leguas Blanco Tequila, Sour AF Lime, Regan’s Orange Bitters, Club Soda & Blue Spirulina
- Rooftop Ranch Water — Ocho Blanco Tequila, lime, El Guapo Fuego Bitters & Fever Tree Sparkling Cucumber
- Thistle & Tropic — Bacardi Ocho Rum, Giffard Caribbean Pineapple & Amaro Nonino
- Greenhouse Fire — Espolon Blanco, Ancho Reyes Verde, agave, lime & El Guapo Fuego Bitters
These drinks emphasize bright, garden-fresh notes that perfectly complement the blooming atmosphere.
St. Julep, known for its breezy cocktails, kicked-up bar snacks, and year-round appeal thanks to its enclosed interior lounge, offers one of Buckhead’s most inviting rooftop experiences.
The Spring in Bloom transformation builds on the venue’s reputation for creative, seasonally themed pop-ups (similar to its popular holiday editions).
No cover charge is mentioned for general access, and walk-ins are typically welcome, though reservations or tickets may be recommended for peak times via the hotel or Eventbrite.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic spot to unwind after work, celebrate with friends, or simply soak in the spring vibes with skyline views, Spring in Bloom at St. Julep promises a colorful, elevated escape right in the heart of Buckhead.
For more details, hours, or to check availability, visit the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel website or St. Julep’s official page at saintjulepatl.com. Spring has officially arrived—nine stories up.
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Well, look at that: Alpharetta, a thriving suburb just north of Atlanta, has claimed the top spot on CoworkingCafe’s 2026 list of best small U.S. cities (under 250,000 population) for big career opportunities.
Home to major employers like Microsoft and Equifax, along with other tech and finance giants such as ADP, Morgan Stanley, Fiserv, and Verizon, the city boasts an impressive median household income of $173,310 and an unemployment rate hovering around 2%.
Alpharetta #1 for Best Small Cities
This combination of high-paying jobs in tech and finance, a dense base of employers, and strong quality-of-life factors has positioned Alpharetta as a standout “career powerhouse.”
Read: The best places to eat in Alpharetta
Residents enjoy stability and professional growth without the intensity of a major urban center—offering proximity to Atlanta’s amenities while avoiding much of the downtown chaos, congestion, and higher cost pressures.
Atlantic Station Tops Niche’s Best Places to Live
Meanwhile, in the heart of Atlanta, the mixed-use neighborhood of Atlantic Station has earned the No. 1 ranking on Niche.com’s 2026 Best Places to Live in America list.
Built on the site of a former steel mill, this vibrant midtown development delivers a walkable, live-work-play environment with strong marks in nightlife, health and fitness, commuting, and appeal to young professionals and families.
It earns an A+ overall grade, with high ratings for public schools, diversity, outdoor activities, and its dense, urban-yet-accessible feel. Median household incomes here exceed $100,000, reflecting its draw for upwardly mobile residents.
Atlantic Station’s design emphasizes convenience: residents can often get by without a car, thanks to abundant bars, restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and retail. The neighborhood has celebrated its 20th anniversary recently, attracting millions of visitors annually alongside its roughly 3,000–6,000 residents.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Recent retail challenges, including the closure of the longtime Publix grocery store (and pharmacy) in late 2025, have left some locals frustrated.
Other store departures have prompted complaints that the area feels increasingly “soulless,” overly pricey, and lacking in everyday essentials despite its upscale vibe. Parking hassles and a string of closures have fueled online discussions questioning whether the shine is fading on this once-celebrated development.
The Boom—and Its Trade-offs—in Atlanta’s Hot Spots
Atlanta’s broader metro boom has elevated both Alpharetta and neighborhoods like Atlantic Station, drawing families, young professionals, and high-earners seeking a blend of opportunity and lifestyle.
In Alpharetta, spots like the upscale mixed-use development Avalon are frequently praised as ideal for families—offering walkable shopping, dining, trails, parks, and a polished suburban atmosphere with top-rated schools.
Yet critics and long-time residents point to growing pains that come with success. Rapid development has brought heavier traffic, especially around popular areas and during events. Housing prices have skyrocketed, with million-dollar homes becoming common and inventory tight.
Some locals lament overdevelopment, loss of green space, parking struggles, and a sense that the area’s charm is being traded for growth and prestige. Similar sentiments echo in discussions about whether the suburban ideal still holds when everyday conveniences feel strained.
keypointhomesgroup.comAtlantic Station faces its own version of these tensions: while lauded for nightlife and fitness options that appeal to young pros, the high cost of living and recent retail shake-ups have some wondering if the “vibrant” label masks underlying issues in sustainability and livability.Balancing Paradise and RealityIn the end, both Alpharetta and Atlantic Station exemplify Atlanta’s appeal as a rising star—offering career prospects, modern amenities, and a Southern-infused quality of life that many find hard to beat. Alpharetta delivers suburban stability with big-city job access; Atlantic Station provides urban energy in a compact, walkable package.But as with any boomtown hotspot, the reality includes trade-offs: traffic and growth pressures in the suburbs, or cost and retail flux in the city. For families eyeing Avalon-style living or young professionals chasing midtown nightlife, these areas remain magnetic.
Prospective residents would do well to visit during peak hours, weigh the numbers against their priorities, and consider whether the hype aligns with daily life in a rapidly evolving Atlanta metro.
Whether you’re chasing six-figure tech salaries or a walkable nightlife scene, these rankings highlight why the region continues to attract newcomers—even as locals navigate the fine line between paradise and its price tag.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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Gorman & Company, a Wisconsin-based developer specializing in affordable housing, is set to break ground on The Fifty-Five, a new 60-unit mixed-income, mixed-use apartment community in East Point, Georgia.
The project is located at 2855 East Point Street, just one block west of the East Point MARTA station, in the city’s historic downtown area (between Dorsey and Thompson streets).
The Fifty-Five Building Opening in East Point
It emphasizes transit-oriented development, placing residents within easy walking distance of MARTA for convenient access to downtown Atlanta and the airport.
The Fifty-Five will consist of a four-story, approximately 77,000-square-foot building featuring one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
All 60 units will be reserved for households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI), providing much-needed affordable and workforce housing options.
The mixed-use design includes street-level retail space, along with resident amenities such as a fitness center, computer lab, community spaces, and outdoor gathering areas to foster neighborhood connections.
Gorman & Company will handle the design, development, construction, and ongoing management of the project.
The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Construction is expected to proceed with completion targeted for fall 2027 and leasing to begin around that time.
Joel Reed, Gorman’s Southeast market president, highlighted the project’s community focus: “The Fifty-Five represents the kind of intentional, community-driven development that makes a lasting impact. By creating new affordable housing in a multi-modal location, we’re helping ensure East Point residents can remain in the community they call home while continuing to thrive.”
This development aligns with East Point’s efforts to promote transit-oriented affordable housing and inject economic vitality into its downtown.
It adds to Gorman & Company’s growing portfolio of Atlanta-area projects, which includes recent completions and ongoing initiatives tied to MARTA stations and historic sites.
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Sandy Springs, GA — The City of Sandy Springs has announced the launch of its 2026 Eco-Stewardship Program, an immersive, hands-on environmental education initiative designed to empower residents to restore and protect local ecosystems.
Now in its third session, the program will run from April 25 through December 18, 2026, with sessions held one Saturday each month.
Participants will gain practical skills in urban forest management, including identifying native plants, removing invasive species, and contributing to forest restoration efforts.
The program is led by master naturalist Kathryn Kolb of EcoAddendum, through a partnership that brings expert-led stewardship training directly into Sandy Springs’ urban forests and green spaces.
“[This program] is designed to engage community members in restoring and protecting local ecosystems,” city officials stated in the announcement on March 23, 2026.
The Eco-Stewardship Program aims to turn participants into active environmental leaders who can help maintain the health of the city’s natural areas for years to come. Registration details and additional information are available on the City of Sandy Springs website.
This initiative reflects Sandy Springs’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community involvement in preserving its green spaces.
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