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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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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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No matter if you’re in the mood for a relaxing glass of wine, a craft cocktail, a local beer, or a lively sports atmosphere, the bars of Sandy Springs have you covered. The Sandy Springs restaurant scene continues to mature like elegant grapes on a vine. But where can you get a drink?!
Best Places To Drink in Sandy Springs
This article will show you some of the best bars in Sandy Springs.
North River Tavern
8879 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30350 (770) 552-8784
Check Visit Sandy Springs for current details (multiple sports-friendly spots along Roswell Rd). For a straightforward spot to catch games or unwind with friends, options like North River Tavern or The Chapter Room provide lively atmospheres, drink specials, multiple screens, and solid bar food. These neighborhood taverns round out the casual side of Sandy Springs nightlife.
The Select Restaurant & Bar
6405 Blue Stone Rd Suite 200, Sandy Springs, GA 30328| (770) 637-2240
The Select is a cozy and intimate wine bar that offers an extensive wine list from around the world, as well as craft beers, cocktails, and light bites. They have a knowledgeable and friendly staff who can help you select the perfect drink for your tastes.
Review: Fantastic selection of wines and spirits, great prices, and friendly staff. Highly recommend!
Hudson Grille Sandy Springs
6317 Roswell Rd NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 554-8282
Hudson Grille Sandy Springs is a sports bar that offers a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or watching the game. They have an extensive menu of pub fare, including burgers, wings, and nachos, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. They also have plenty of TVs to watch
your favorite sports teams.
Review: Great sports bar with a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent drink specials.
Highly recommend for game day!The Ship and Anchor Pub
5975 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 256-3550)
The Ship and Anchor Pub is a British-style pub that offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and outdoor patio. They have a selection of beers on tap and in bottles, as well as a variety of cocktails and spirits. They also offer traditional British pub fare, such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and
bangers and mash.
Review: Authentic British pub with great food, drinks, and friendly staff. A perfect spot for
a casual night out with friends.Battle and Brew
5920 Roswell Rd, Ste A-120, Sandy Springs, GA 30328| (678) 560-1500)
Battle and Brew is a unique bar and restaurant that combines gaming with drinks and food. They have a large selection of video games, board games, and tabletop games available for patrons to play while enjoying their drinks and food. They also have a menu of pub fare and a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
Review: Awesome gaming bar with a wide selection of games, great food, and drinks.
The staff is super friendly and welcoming, making for a fun and unique experience.Final Sip
Grabbing a drink in Atlanta or its suburbs has never been easier. There are so many cool places to check out, from fine dining in Alpharetta to the best restaurants on the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
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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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ATLANTA, Ga. — A federal judge has sided with Aisha “Pinky” Cole, the founder of the popular Atlanta-based vegan restaurant chain Slutty Vegan, ordering the return of an investment property that was seized by a creditor shortly after she filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Cole filed for bankruptcy protection in February 2026 amid significant financial challenges. Court records indicate she owes approximately $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration for a COVID-19-related loan and another $192,000 in state taxes to the Georgia Department of Revenue.
According to court filings, Cole had planned to rent out the six-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Loganville (sometimes referred to in reports as the Lawrenceville area) starting in April to generate income toward paying down her debts.
However, on February 20, 2026, Guardian Asset Management—a property management and creditor-related firm—seized the property.
They changed the locks and placed a notice on a street-facing window stating that the home could not be entered until it was offered for sale.
Cole’s legal team promptly contacted Guardian, notifying them that the seizure violated the automatic stay—a key protection under federal bankruptcy law that halts most collection actions and creditor interference once a bankruptcy petition is filed.
When Guardian did not respond, Cole filed an emergency motion seeking the return of the property.
On Thursday, March 26, 2026, a federal judge ruled that Guardian had indeed violated the automatic stay.
One of Cole’s attorneys told Atlanta News First that the court ordered the property returned to Cole and awarded her attorney’s fees and other costs, citing “Guardian’s utter disregard of bankruptcy protections.
This latest development comes after Cole had already navigated prior financial restructuring.
In 2025, she entered an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors—a state-level process in which a company’s assets are transferred to a third-party administrator for sale to satisfy debts.
That process briefly resulted in Cole losing ownership of the Slutty Vegan brand before regaining control.0
Pinky Cole has become a prominent figure in Atlanta’s business and entertainment scenes. Known for her bold branding and plant-based “slutty” burgers and other menu items that have drawn long lines and celebrity attention, she is set to join the cast of the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, which premieres on April 5.0
The case highlights the protections afforded to debtors under bankruptcy law and the potential consequences for creditors who act without court approval during an active filing.
Cole’s team has emphasized that the Loganville property served as an investment intended to help stabilize her finances rather than her primary residence.
As the bankruptcy proceedings continue, this ruling provides Cole with immediate relief regarding the seized asset while she works through her broader financial reorganization.
This article is based on reporting from Atlanta News First and cross-referenced local coverage. Court proceedings can evolve, and additional details may emerge as the case progresses.
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Atlanta, Georgia is a greenspace paradise, or at least some of it is. Have you visited Atlanta’s parks system?
In this article, we’re going to show you where some of the best parks are in Atlanta. You can use these spots for a quick jog, a pleasant walk or even a nice picnic.
Greenspaces have become even more popular during the coronavirus pandemic, where getting into the open air and away from large crowds can do wonders for our physical as well as mental health.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Parks
So, you can see that finding great park space is no biggie in Atlanta, and yet, many Atlanta parks have their own features, dynamics and geography. Whether you’re looking for a place to just chill and relax or trying to find a place for your kids to play, you’ll find that the best Atlanta parks have a little of both.
So, which Atlanta parks are the best? Well, how about we rely on the many voices found on the internet to answer that question? AtlantaFi has compiled numerous comments from various sites to get their take on the best Atlanta parks you can find.
Piedmont Park
Atlanta’s premier green space in Midtown, often called the city’s backyard. Sprawling lawns, Lake Clara Meer, sports fields, dog parks, playgrounds, and events galore.
Recent buzz: Still tops Yelp and TripAdvisor lists for its beauty and accessibility. Perfect for picnics, runs, or people-watching. “The heart of Atlanta—always vibrant and green!”Lake: Yes. Lake Clara Meer, an iconic 11.5-acre lake in the heart of the park. It’s a centerpiece for scenic views, walking paths around it, fishing (post-renovation), and skyline photos—often called one of Atlanta’s most beautiful urban lakes.
Cook Park
Cook Park, officially Rodney Cook Sr. Park, in the Vine City neighborhood of Atlanta has all the amenities you’d want in an urban greenspace: It’s close to the community, near downtown and is expertly manicured!
Lake: Yes, Cook Park in Atlanta features a prominent 2-acre stormwater pond and wetlands. This central water feature serves as both a scenic amenity and a functional, eco-friendly system that filters storm water to protect the neighborhood from flooding.
Bellwood Quarry
The Bellwood Quarry Westside Park is old abandoned quarry converted into a modern urban water reservoir park.
Lake: Yes, the Bellwood Quarry, now part of Westside Park in Atlanta, features a massive 45-acre water reservoir. This former granite quarry was converted into a 1.9-billion-gallon emergency drinking water reservoir to serve the city. It acts as a scenic lake at the center of the 350-acre park.
Here’s what one park lover says about Bellwood Quarry: “This is going to be one amazing park after my first big love Piedmont Park. I love the fact that you can walk or bike around the entire park and end up in different section. I spent hours walking around this park and loved it. I will sure be going there again for my nature walk. I love the fact that the city of Atlanta is working hard to create these different parks venue for people to be outside and keep them healthy. This is a smart investment for people who know how much health care cost in this country. Keep up the good work opening these different venue to keep us healthy.”
Perkerson Park
Perkerson Park, located at 770 Deckner Ave SW Atlanta, is a 50-acre park in the Capitol View/Sylvan Hills neighborhoods. It has a basketball half-court just past its entrance, but up the path on a plateau about 200 yards away is a full court basketball court. There’s also a kids’ playground, a recreational fields, a jogging track and frisbee tournament grounds.
Southside Park
Here’s what one reviewer says of Southside Park: “Great mountain bike trails and super close to downtown ~15min drive. Super flowy, fun XC single track. Lots of switchbacks, gradual climbs and a few zippy bits especially on the Hickory trail.”
South Bend Park
South Bend Park, located at 1955 Compton Dr SE in Atlanta, GA, is a family-oriented, peaceful, and clean recreational space known for its dog park, playgrounds, and natural features. The park offers amenities such as swings, slides, picnic tables, a barbecue grill, and a tennis court, serving as a welcoming spot for families and dog owners.
Here’s what one park-goer says of South Bend Park: “The park has a trail starting adjacent to the pool. The SouthTowne Trail is a winding paved pathway perfect for biking or walking. Plenty of twists and turns. Although, you can’t mindlessly walk with phone in hand, but that’s a good thing. You can hear, & partly see, the streams through all the trees and kudzu. Birds are chirping everywhere, especially cardinals. This trail leads into the Swann Nature Preserve where they had a bridge closed. I was almost at the end, couldn’t finish the trail, so I went off course, and found an eastern box turtle before I got to the stream. There are a lot of elevation changes, so it’s a nice physical exertion, but at least there’s plenty of shade. Saw a few deer prints in the mud, along with (possibly) coyote tracking it.”
Centennial Olympic Park
Here’s what one city resident says about Centennial Olympic Park: A clean park in the middle of downtown Atlanta. Not sure if the “grass” is actually astroturf, but it was cut very low and looked kinda dry. Overall the park was well maintained and a nice tribute to the Olympic games that were held here in 1996. Only takes like 30 minutes to explore the entire park, including all the monuments.
Lake: No. ts primary water feature is the interactive Fountain of Rings, a popular dancing water fountain. While it features a water garden, it is a landscaped, urban park rather than a water-based recreational area.
Here’s what one reviewer said: “With the train station being literally at the park, the industrial ambiance is quite relaxing, if you ask me. The Marta train station is located across the street. Thankfully, a pavilion is close in distance to cool off at & is perfect for hosting parties.
The basketball court is gated and filled with great street players. There is also a gated pool with a kiddie umbrella water area. The only thing I dislike is the lack of parking spaces in front of the parks community building.”
How You Can Save Atlanta’s Parks
You might not know it but, Atlanta’s parks are endangered due to urban sprawl and utter neglect from city officials and the community. But you can do something about that.
Join the movement spearheaded by the Trust for Public Land to put a park within a 10-minute walk of every American.
1. Volunteer Your Time (The Most Direct Impact)
Hands-on work keeps parks clean, beautiful, and functional.
- Park Pride — The go-to hub with over 90 Friends of the Park groups (e.g., Friends of Piedmont Park, Grant Park Conservancy, Chastain Park Conservancy). Join cleanups, invasive plant removal, mulching, trail maintenance, or habitat restoration. Sign up for free volunteer days or start/join a group for your local park.
Website: parkpride.org (check “We Can Help” or “Volunteer Program”). - Piedmont Park Conservancy — Regular weekday and weekend opportunities in Atlanta’s flagship park (weeding, trash pickup, invasive removal, mulch spreading). Great for individuals or groups.
Register: piedmontpark.org/support-the-park/volunteer. - Atlanta BeltLine — Trail cleanups, event support, community outreach. Orientations and group projects available—perfect for the expanding network of trails and new parks.
Sign up: beltline.org/support/volunteer. - Trees Atlanta — Focus on urban forest restoration (e.g., Conserve the 4-0-Forest events for invasive removal and tree care). Projects most Saturdays.
treesatlanta.org/get-involved/volunteer. - Other conservancies — Grant Park Conservancy (monthly workdays), South Fork Conservancy (creek restoration), Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, or Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (trail/river cleanups).
Search the City of Atlanta’s volunteer page (atlantaga.gov > Department of Parks & Recreation > Volunteer info) for a full list of trusted partners.
2. Donate or Advocate
- Support Park Pride or specific conservancies (e.g., Piedmont Park Conservancy) for funding maintenance, programming, and improvements.
- Donate to Trust for Public Land (tpl.org) — Active in Atlanta (e.g., BeltLine land acquisition, Cook Park stormwater projects). They push for equitable park access and new greenspaces.
- Advocate: Attend Parks & Greenspace Conference (next one March 2026 at Atlanta Botanical Garden), support the city’s Activate ATL strategic plan (2022-2026, focusing on more parkland and funding), or contact City Council members about park budgets/priorities.
3. Everyday Actions to Help “Save” Parks
- Pick up litter during visits (even small efforts add up—join or start casual cleanups via apps like Litterati or local groups).
- Report issues — Use ATL311 app/website for maintenance needs (broken equipment, overgrown areas, safety concerns).
- Use responsibly — Stay on trails, pack out trash, avoid off-leash dogs in restricted areas to prevent erosion/wildlife harm.
- Spread the word — Share positive park experiences on social media, encourage friends/family to visit/volunteer, or support events that highlight parks (e.g., BeltLine activities for World Cup 2026).
- Plant natives/support trees — If you have space or join efforts, help combat invasive species and urban heat.
Atlanta’s parks thrive because of community involvement—volunteers and advocates have driven major wins like BeltLine progress and recent grants ($35M+ for 19 parks in recent cycles). Start small: Pick one park (maybe Piedmont or your neighborhood spot), sign up for a volunteer shift this spring, and build from there.What park do you love most, or how would you like to get involved (e.g., volunteering, donating)? I can point you to more specific links or upcoming events!
Final Word
Atlanta, Georgia has become an oasis of public greenspaces. People looking for wide open spaces and green acreage don’t have to travel very far to find it in the city.
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Got any other ATL parks to add to the list? 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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- Park Pride — The go-to hub with over 90 Friends of the Park groups (e.g., Friends of Piedmont Park, Grant Park Conservancy, Chastain Park Conservancy). Join cleanups, invasive plant removal, mulching, trail maintenance, or habitat restoration. Sign up for free volunteer days or start/join a group for your local park.
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ATLANTA — In a move aimed at eliminating the biannual ritual of adjusting clocks, the Georgia State Senate has passed legislation that would petition the federal government to move the state from the Eastern Time Zone to the Atlantic Time Zone, effectively placing Georgia on permanent daylight saving time.
House Bill 154, known as the Georgia Sunshine Protection Act, passed the Senate on Monday by a vote of 45-5.
Georgia Senate Passes Bill to Shift State to Atlantic Time Zone, Ending Clock Changes
The bill directs the governor to request that the U.S. Department of Transportation reclassify Georgia into the Atlantic Time Zone.
Some Atlanta residents have mixed feelings about a permanent Daylight Savings Time.
”I’m all for more sunlight,” said Tammy Jones of Smyrna. “But how dark is it going to be in the morning when I take my two kids to catch the school bus?”
If approved by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the state would observe Atlantic Standard Time year-round — meaning no more “spring forward” or “fall back” adjustments.
This approach represents a creative workaround to longstanding federal restrictions on permanent daylight saving time.
Current U.S. law under the Uniform Time Act generally prohibits states from observing daylight saving time outside the standard March-to-November period without congressional approval.
Georgia already passed a law in 2021 expressing support for year-round daylight saving time, but it remains contingent on federal action.
By shifting to the Atlantic zone (currently used by parts of Canada and the Caribbean), Georgia could achieve the equivalent of permanent DST while staying within existing federal time zone rules.
Why This Bill?
Supporters argue that ending clock changes would bring health, safety, and economic benefits by avoiding the disruptions linked to sleep schedule shifts, such as increased heart attacks, traffic accidents, and workplace errors in the days following time changes.
The bill builds on years of debate in the Georgia General Assembly, where lawmakers have repeatedly considered both permanent standard time and permanent daylight saving time options.
The amended version of HB 154 now heads back to the House for concurrence on the Senate’s changes. It previously passed the House overwhelmingly in an earlier form.16
Potential Impacts
- Daily Life: Georgians would no longer reset clocks twice a year. In winter months, sunrises would occur later (potentially near 8 a.m. or later in some areas), while evenings would stay lighter longer — a key appeal of extended daylight saving time for many.
- Regional Alignment: Georgia would become the only U.S. state in the Atlantic Time Zone, creating a one-hour difference with neighboring states like Florida (which stays on Eastern Time) and Alabama (Central Time). This could affect business, broadcasting, and travel across state lines.
- Federal Hurdle: The change still requires approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Without it, the bill would have no effect.
Critics, including some public health advocates and groups favoring permanent standard time, have raised concerns about later winter sunrises, which could mean darker mornings for school commutes and early workers.
Opponents have urged amendments to keep the state on Eastern Standard Time year-round instead.
Broader Context
Georgia is one of many states exploring ways to end the twice-yearly clock changes. While Congress has considered bills to make daylight saving time permanent nationwide, no such legislation has passed.
In the absence of federal reform, states like Georgia are pursuing creative solutions through time zone adjustments or conditional laws.
The bill reflects ongoing public frustration with daylight saving time transitions.
Polls and legislative debates across the country show divided opinions: many prefer more evening light in winter, while others worry about darker mornings or misalignment with neighboring regions.
As the legislation moves forward in the Georgia House, Georgians will be watching closely to see if the Peach State becomes the first to “spring forward” permanently by changing its time zone altogether. If enacted and approved federally, the days of losing an hour of sleep in March could finally be over.
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The Atlanta Food Forest (also known as the Urban Food Forest at Browns Mill) remains one of the most notable and successful examples of urban agriculture in the United States.
Located in a historically underserved area of southeast Atlanta, this pioneering project continues to provide free, fresh, organic produce to combat food insecurity in a former food desert.
Do you know where the Atlanta food forest is and what’s in it?This article will tell you everything you need to know about Atlanta’s food forest.
If you’re thinking about visiting the endeavor sometime soon, here’s everything you need to know.
Everything You Need To Know About Atlanta’s Food Forest
The site serves a neighborhood where poverty rates exceed 60% and fresh food access was previously limited (often requiring a 30-minute drive to a grocery store).
The project is widely recognized as the largest public food forest in the country, functioning as a model for integrating edible landscapes into equitable urban park development.
With food insecurity seen as a growing threat to America’s kitchens, a food forest comes at a crucial time. But why now? And why Atlanta?
It all began to grow roots in 2016. That’s when the Atlanta Mayor’s Office requested federal funding to address food deserts in the city’s most vulnerable neighborhoods. A seven-acre plot of land was found in southeast Atlanta.
When Atlanta’s City Council passed a resolution approving the nation’s first food forest, many critics scratched their heads thinking it wouldn’t work. An Atlanta food forest? No way, they said.
Indeed, the city is used to enormous plans shriveling up due to less than stellar community support or political infighting. But this time, it was different.
Atlanta Food Forest: A History
The 7-acre plot used to be owned by the Morgans, a couple who farmed the land. In 2016, the Conservation Fund bought the property.
Vast swaths of Atlanta were deemed “food deserts,” which meant that they were underserved when it came to affordable and sustainable foods. This was not only an economic problem, but a health issue and social dilemma.
What Is A Food Desert?
The government defines a food desert as low-income communities located more than 1 mile from fresh fruits and vegetables. Fast food restaurants don’t count.
What was happening in Atlanta’s Lakewood-Browns Mill community met all the definitions of a food desert. Also, more than 60% of the residents there lived below the poverty line.
The lack of grocery stores in the most needy areas of Atlanta also contributed to the problem. Thus, Atlanta officials were pushed to support a food forest that would continue to grow and feed the city’s impoverished communities.
So basically, the city’s nonstop development has forced the hands of city planners to come up with a way to feed thousands of community residents stuck in food desserts around the city.
Is The Food At The Atlanta Food Forest Free?
One of the biggest questions you may have is whether the food at the Atlanta food forest is free. A more appropriate question is “Is the food ready for harvest?”
The project has come to fruition thanks to a grant from the U.S Forest Service’s Community Forest Program.
Fruit-bearing trees, herbs and other crops have been planted continuously over the last year, much of it by local schoolchildren. Much of the food is available for foraging by Atlanta residents for free.
With that being said, there is an orderly arrangement that you must adhere to in order to take part in the harvest.
Who Can Harvest At Atlanta’s Food Forest?
Anybody can harvest at Atlanta’s food forest, but there is a hierarchy that you must follow. This is how the arrangement operates:
- Participating neighbors get first dibs on harvested crops, You can become a participating neighbor by emailing BrownsMillCommunityGarden@gmail.com.
- Volunteers take part in the harvest every Wednesday and second Saturday
- Finally, Atlanta residents can harvest at the “Community Harvest Table”
Where Is The Atlanta Food Forest Located?
The city’s urban forest is actually situated atop City of Atlanta parkland in the southwest portion of the city. The Atlanta food forest is located at 2217 Browns Mill Road, Atlanta, GA. 30315. Here’s a map to help you find the spot.
What Kinds Of Food Are Available In Atlanta’s Food Forest?
The Atlanta food forest grows a variety of fresh produce, including fruits, nuts, vegetables, herbs, and mushrooms. All of the bounty will be available for public consumption.
How It Works Today (2026)
Produce is free for all, following a respectful community protocol:- Participating neighbors (local residents) have priority — join by emailing BrownsMillCommunityGarden@gmail.com.
- Volunteers help harvest and maintain the site (typically Wednesdays and the second Saturday of each month).
- General Atlanta residents can access remaining produce via the Community Harvest Tableor by foraging responsibly.
- Visitors are welcome to explore trails, the orchard, mushroom areas, and more. The site emphasizes education, sustainability, and community building.
Photo credit:: Atlanta food forest What Do People Say About The Food Forest?
Here are some comments from people who have visited the Atlanta food forest.
— Wonderful the way for the neighborhood to have free food to eat in these trying times where money is not always plentiful in areas such as this. I love my neighborhood. thank God for the hands that have prepared this garden I’m sure those who utilize this farm appreciate it.
— Best kept secret for children who like the great outdoors and have a gift for old fashion gardening and fun with nature. Caring encounters with the people who care for the Park.— This place is so cool! You can learn a lot of things and it’s amazing how they grow the foods and herbs with no pesticides and no chemicals! Honestly it’s a blessing that they have gotten this far in just a few months so I give this place 5 stars!
Final Word
Have you been to Atlanta’s food forest? Filled with tasty organic foods like tomatoes, peaches, plums and more, Atlanta’s food forest is nation’s largest food forest.
If you love sustainable, locally sourced fruits and vegetables, come visit the Atlanta food forest, or better yet, become a volunteer.
If you want to grow your own food or become an urban farmer that’s an option too.
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