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Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended without pay for the first eight games of the 2026 regular season after violating the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy, the league announced.
The suspension means Pearce Jr. will miss the opening half of the Falcons’ schedule and will not receive his salary for those contests. He will be eligible to return for Week 9, provided he fulfills any additional requirements set by the league.
Falcons’ James Pearce Jr. Suspended 8 Games for NFL Personal Conduct Policy Violation
The discipline stems from a February 7, 2026, incident in Doral, Florida, involving Pearce and his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson of the Los Angeles Sparks. According to police accounts and an arrest affidavit, Pearce—driving a Lamborghini SUV—followed Jackson, attempted to enter her vehicle at a stop, and intentionally rammed her car multiple times as she tried to reach the Doral Police Department for safety. Officers alleged he struck a police vehicle while attempting to flee and resisted arrest.
James Pearce expected all charges to be dismissed.
Jackson later told authorities she feared for her life. She detailed prior threats, verbal and physical abuse, and obsessive behavior during their three-year relationship and was granted a temporary protective order shortly after the incident. atlantafi.com
Pearce initially faced five felony charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (using his vehicle), aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police, and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer. Prosecutors later dropped the battery-on-officer count after reviewing body-camera footage and reduced the stalking charge to a misdemeanor, leaving him with three felonies and one misdemeanor.
In April 2026, reports indicated Pearce was expected to have all pending charges dismissed if he successfully completed a Florida pretrial diversion or intervention program. The program involves therapy and a period of staying out of legal trouble (initially reported as six months, with later accounts referencing a longer term). The victim and local police reportedly agreed to the resolution. Upon successful completion, the charges would be dismissed with no conviction on his record. Pearce’s attorney confirmed the terms at the time, and his legal team has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy allows the league to impose its own discipline independent of the criminal justice process. The policy includes a baseline six-game suspension for first-time domestic violence-related violations, which can be adjusted for aggravating or mitigating factors. In this case, the league handed down an eight-game ban.
Pearce, selected by the Falcons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as one of the league’s top young pass rushers in his rookie season. He led the Falcons and all rookies with 10.5 sacks and finished as a finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had been limited in offseason participation while the legal matter was unresolved.
The Falcons declined to comment on the suspension. The organization continues to prepare for the 2026 season without its leading returning pass rusher for the first half of the regular-season schedule.
Pearce Jr., a key part of Atlanta’s defensive line rotation, will now be unavailable for the early portion of the season as the Falcons look to build momentum. The team is expected to lean on other edge rushers and depth players during his absence.
The Falcons organization has not issued an immediate detailed statement beyond acknowledging the league’s decision. Players suspended under the Personal Conduct Policy generally remain under contract but are prohibited from participating in team activities during the ban, though they may be allowed limited access for rehabilitation or treatment if applicable.
This development adds an early-season challenge for Atlanta’s defense as the club prepares for the 2026 campaign. Pearce Jr. will be eligible for reinstatement after serving the eight-game ban
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Atlanta is about to get a glittering new theatrical experience. AU Room Show makes its Atlanta premiere at Pullman Yards on Thursday, August 27, and runs for a limited engagement through Sunday, October 11.
Inspired by humanity’s centuries-long fascination with gold, the 100-minute production explores the beauty, power, and temptation tied to the metal throughout history. Produced by Pink Puma Inc. in partnership with BucketListers and Pullman Yards, AU Room Show blends world-class aerial performances with powerful music and contemporary choreography.
AU Room Show at Pullman Yards: What To Know
Spectacular LED visuals and a rich theatrical atmosphere transform the stage into immersive worlds where story, music, movement, lighting, and design create an unforgettable evening.
The show is created and produced by Polina Volchek, a former Cirque du Soleil soloist, four-time World Pole Sport & Artistic Pole Champion, world record holder, and Master of Sports at the International Level. Volchek previously brought her sold-out AfterDark Show to Atlanta at the same Pullman Yards venue earlier this year, giving local audiences a taste of her distinctive style.
“Gold has inspired civilizations for thousands of years. AU Room isn’t about luxury. It’s about our relationship with one of history’s most powerful symbols,” Volchek says. “We wanted to create a world where audiences don’t simply watch a performance; they step inside a living work of art.”
Maureen Meulen of Pullman Yards highlights the artist’s connection to the city: “Polina brings an extraordinary artistic perspective to AU Room, shaped in part by her Russian roots and a strong appreciation for theatrical storytelling, discipline, and visual artistry. Her talent to transform movement into emotion and create these breathtaking, immersive worlds is truly remarkable. Atlanta audiences are going to experience something remarkable—an artist at the height of her craft bringing her vision to life in a way that feels both timeless and completely original.”
Performances take place Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8:30 p.m., and Sundays at 6 p.m. at Pullman Yards, 225 Rogers St. NE, Atlanta. Tickets are on sale now, including Diamond and Platinum levels that include one complimentary signature cocktail, wine, beer, champagne by the glass, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Full details and all ticket levels are available at auroom.show.
AU Room Show is an all-ages production but recommended for guests ages 12 and older. For Atlantans looking for a unique night of immersive theater this fall, the limited run at Pullman Yards offers a rare chance to step into a world forged from gold.
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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ATLANTA — The College Football Hall of Fame is kicking off the football season with its annual Football Fest & Free Day on Saturday, Aug. 22.
Fans are invited to enjoy free admission to the Hall, along with a full day of appearances, activities and entertainment featuring some of Atlanta’s biggest sports organizations.
Football Fest & Free Day
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, located at 250 Marietta St. N.W. in downtown Atlanta.
Presented by the Peach Bowl, the celebration offers free entry to the Hall thanks to the sponsor. Activities will take place both inside the Hall and outside along Marietta Street. No ticket is required for the outdoor portion.
What to expect:
- The College GameDay Bus and appearances from local Atlanta sports teams
- The Hall’s interactive exhibits and live entertainment
- Football-themed games and activities inside the Hall and along Marietta Street
- The Locker Exhibit recognizing the incoming 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Class
The event serves as an energetic kickoff to the college football season in the city often called the Capital of College Football. Visitors can explore newly unveiled interactive exhibits, enjoy family-friendly fun, and take in the festive atmosphere created by local sports organizations.
Parking is available at the nearby Green Deck Parking Garage (corner of Baker and Marietta streets), though entry may be from the rear due to road closures on Marietta Street. Officials recommend considering MARTA or rideshare services to ease congestion. The Hall closes at 5 p.m., with the box office closing at 4:30 p.m.0
For more details, visit the College Football Hall of Fame website.
Final Word
Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Kroger, the Cincinnati-based grocery giant, has shuttered at least 39 stores across nine of its banners as part of a broader plan to close 60 underperforming locations by the end of 2026.
While the company has not released a complete official list, online tracking and local reports confirm the closures, including four in the Atlanta metro area that hit neighborhoods in Fulton and DeKalb counties particularly hard.
The moves stem from Kroger’s announcement last year that certain stores were not “delivering sustainable results.” Company statements emphasized the goal of running more efficiently and securing the long-term health of the business. Employees at the affected sites were offered opportunities to transfer to other Kroger locations.
Atlanta-area stores among the first to go
Metro Atlanta saw four Kroger-banner stores close in 2025 as the national plan took shape:
- 2452 Morosgo Way NE, Atlanta (near Lindbergh MARTA station/Buckhead area) — closed in mid-July 2025.
- 11877 Douglas Road, Alpharetta — closed in mid-August 2025.
- 3479 Memorial Drive, Decatur — closed in mid-September 2025.
- 3855 Buford Highway NE, Brookhaven — closed in mid-October 2025.
These were among the earlier confirmed closures in the company’s 18-month effort. Shoppers in surrounding apartment communities, residential neighborhoods, and along busy corridors like Buford Highway and Memorial Drive faced the inconvenience of longer trips to remaining Kroger stores or competitors such as Publix, Aldi, and Walmart. Local reports at the time noted community concerns about pharmacy access and everyday convenience, especially for seniors and residents relying on nearby options.
Georgia still maintains a strong Kroger presence, with roughly 164 stores statewide as of recent counts (including multiple locations in Atlanta and nearby suburbs), but the loss of these four reduced options in key northern and eastern metro spots.
What’s Next for the Atlanta Sites
As of January 2026, Kroger operated about 2,697 supermarkets across 35 states under roughly 20 banners (including Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Harris Teeter, King Soopers, Mariano’s, Pick ’n Save, QFC, and others). The 39 identified closures span 15 states and multiple banners, with additional shutdowns expected before year-end. Some locations elsewhere have been consolidated into larger Kroger Marketplace formats, which expand beyond groceries into clothing, toys, home goods, and furniture.
In the Atlanta region, updates on the former sites vary. The Brookhaven location on Buford Highway is slated for a new Compare Foods grocery store (focused on Hispanic and ethnic products) expected as soon as September 2026. Meanwhile, Kroger is advancing a major new Marketplace project in nearby Dunwoody—a roughly 166,000-square-foot store with drive-thru pharmacy and gas station planned for a former Walmart site at Perimeter Village, with local approvals moving forward in mid-2026.
The closures coincide with Kroger’s planned $1.65 billion acquisition of regional chain Giant Eagle, which would add nearly 200 stores primarily in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, helping expand its footprint in those markets even as it prunes underperformers elsewhere.
For Atlanta shoppers, the message is mixed: fewer neighborhood options in some pockets, but continued investment in larger-format stores and a still-substantial regional network. Kroger has not detailed further Georgia closures beyond the four already completed, and company officials have stressed that sales from shuttered locations are expected to shift to nearby remaining stores.
As the nationwide overhaul continues through the rest of 2026, metro Atlanta residents will be watching closely for any additional changes—and for how the empty storefronts on Morosgo, Douglas, Memorial, and Buford fill in.
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Fashion retailer Nordstrom plans to open a new Nordstrom Rack location in Athens, Georgia, in summer 2027.
The 22,000-square-foot store will be situated at Athens Marketplace, a shopping center on Atlanta Highway (U.S. 78) that includes retailers such as Office Depot and GameStop. The outparcel is owned and managed by Crimson Companies under the leadership of Pamela Day.
Nordstrom to Open New Rack Store in Athens in Summer 2027
“We look forward to being a part of the Athens community and serving our customers with an amazing offering of great brands at great prices,” said Gemma Lionello, president of Nordstrom Rack. “We’re excited to grow our footprint in the Atlanta market and introduce new customers to the Nordstrom experience.”
Lionello noted that shoppers at the new location will have access to convenient services, including online order pickup from both Nordstrom.com and NordstromRack.com, as well as easy returns.
“We are excited to welcome Nordstrom Rack to Athens Marketplace,” said Mike Riso, property manager of Crimson Companies. “This new location underscores Nordstrom’s long-term commitment to investing in the community through local job creation, economic development, and a customer-first approach that has made the brand a trusted destination for millions of shoppers nationwide.”
Nordstrom Rack, the off-price division of Nordstrom, Inc., offers customers up to 70% off on-trend apparel, accessories, beauty products, home décor, and shoes from many of the top brands sold at full-line Nordstrom stores. The division also provides core services such as online order pickup and easy returns, with alterations available at select locations. Nordstrom Rack serves as the company’s largest source of new customers.
The Athens store will expand Nordstrom’s physical presence and economic impact in Georgia, where the company currently operates two Nordstrom stores and seven Nordstrom Rack locations, supporting more than 700 jobs statewide.
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Aye Tea Elle, the elevated tapas and craft cocktail spot in historic downtown College Park, will close its doors on Sept. 6, according to an announcement from co-owner Jovan Dais.
The restaurant, located at 3755 College St. has operated as a vibe dining lounge offering small plates, seafood, and creative cocktails near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Aye Tea Elle Closes Down: What We Know
It features a full commercial kitchen, two bars, two outdoor entertainment areas, seating for 75–100 guests, an active liquor license, and a tobacco license.
In an Instagram reel posted Saturday, owner Jovan Dais wrote: “One dream is ending… but another could be just beginning. We’ve laughed, cried, celebrated, argued with vendors, survived inflation, egg prices, chicken wing prices, and people asking for ranch with everything… Closing Doors Sept 6th. Now it’s someone else’s turn.”
With him was restaurant partner, Scott Corbin.
The owners are marketing the space as a ready-to-go opportunity for a new operator interested in a restaurant, lounge, cigar bar, or event venue. “Skip years of construction, permitting, and build-out.
Walk in with your vision and make it your own,” the post stated. Interested parties can inquire via the restaurant’s website (ayeteaelle.com/dream-restaurant) or email info@ayeteaelle.com. Serious inquiries only.
Aye Tea Elle, whose name is a play on “ATL,” has been a popular destination on Atlanta’s south side for date nights, celebrations, and gatherings. It’s also been one of the best places to eat in College Park.
Guests frequently praised its ambiance, dishes such as lamb lollipops, fried lobster bites, jumbo lump crab cakes, and smoked cocktails.
It is a 21-and-up establishment known for private events and parties. Comments on the announcement referenced roughly six years of operation and shared memories of good food, happy hours, and community.
College Park sits less than eight miles southwest of downtown Atlanta and just minutes from the airport. The closure adds to a series of restaurant transitions across metro Atlanta amid ongoing industry pressures.
The space remains available for bookings and service until the final day. For more information or to inquire about taking over the location, visit the restaurant’s website or contact the owners directly.
Up the street, East Point continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
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Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams has finalized key remaining issues in her divorce from businessman Simon Guobadia, walking away with significant assets according to court documents.
Under the settlement agreement, Williams received the deed to the Atlanta mansion the couple once shared. Guobadia transferred his ownership interest in the property to her via a quitclaim deed. She is also entitled to more than $1.5 million—specifically $1,568,181.63—in reimbursement from his share of the property’s equity. In addition, she obtained clear title to a 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost.
The agreement grants Williams full authority to refinance or sell the home in a commercially reasonable manner without needing involvement from Guobadia or an arbitrator. During an August 5, 2026, hearing, both parties confirmed the settlement terms under oath, stating that it resolved all remaining issues between them. Williams noted in her filing that Guobadia had already agreed to the terms of the consent order.
The couple married in November 2022 after a relatively short courtship. Williams filed for divorce in February 2024 after about 15 months of marriage, describing the relationship as irretrievably broken. Earlier stages of the proceedings involved enforcement of their prenuptial agreement, which had already provided for monthly spousal support, retention of certain vehicles, and arrangements regarding the home’s equity and expenses. Guobadia, who was deported to Nigeria amid immigration issues, had contested aspects of the prenup, but courts largely upheld its terms.
See Porsha Williams’ Buckhead estate.
This latest resolution appears to close out the property and vehicle-related disputes that lingered after the initial rulings. The multimillion-dollar Atlanta residence—previously reported as valued around $7 million and featuring five bedrooms and eight bathrooms—had been a central point of contention. Williams had been awarded exclusive use for a period, with Guobadia responsible for certain carrying costs in the interim, before this full transfer of the deed.
The settlement underscores the financial outcomes of a high-profile but brief marriage that played out partly in the public eye through reality television and subsequent legal filings. As with many celebrity divorces, the details emerged through court records obtained by outlets covering the case. Both parties have now formally resolved the outstanding matters under the agreement.
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STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. — Panda Express opened a new location Thursday morning in Stockbridge. The restaurant hosted city officials with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in District 2.
City officials gathered to mark the opening, celebrating the arrival of the popular Asian-inspired fast-casual restaurant as another sign of ongoing investment in the area.
New Eats: Panda Express Opens in Stockbridge
Officials highlighted the addition as part of continued economic development and growth in Stockbridge.
“This morning, the City of Stockbridge proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting for Panda Express, officially welcoming this new restaurant to our growing business community in District 2,” the city stated. “We are excited to see continued investment in our city and grateful for businesses that choose Stockbridge as their home.”
The city extended congratulations to the Panda Express team on the milestone and expressed enthusiasm for the restaurant’s success as a new member of the local community.
The opening reflects Stockbridge’s efforts to attract businesses and support local economic expansion. City leaders have emphasized the importance of new commercial developments in strengthening the area’s appeal and providing additional dining options for residents.
Panda Express joins the roster of establishments contributing to Stockbridge’s expanding business landscape in District 2. Officials say they look forward to the restaurant’s positive impact on the community.
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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ATLANTA — Mercedes-Benz Stadium has earned dual nominations in USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards, recognized in both the Best NFL Stadium and Best NFL Stadium Food categories.
The Atlanta venue, home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, is one of the finalists competing for top honors based on fan voting. The Best NFL Stadium category highlights overall fan experience, design, amenities, and atmosphere, while the Best NFL Stadium Food category focuses on the quality, variety, and innovation of concessions offered to game-day attendees.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Nominated for Best NFL Stadium and Best Stadium Food in USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Awards
Mercedes-Benz Stadium has previously drawn praise for its retractable roof, 360-degree halo board, and emphasis on local and diverse food options that go beyond traditional stadium fare. The dual nominations place the venue among the leading NFL facilities nationwide in the annual fan-driven poll.
Fans can vote for their favorites through USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice platform. Winners will be determined by public votes and announced later in the awards cycle.
The recognition underscores Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s continued standing as a premier destination for NFL fans seeking both an impressive venue and elevated game-day dining.
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Brookhaven’s signature culinary celebration is back. Taste Brookhaven returns on Thursday, October 1, at Brookhaven City Centre, promising an evening of unlimited tastings, craft cocktails, live entertainment, and community impact.
Taste Brookhaven Returns October 1: Unlimited Bites, Signature Sips & a Night Supporting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
General Admission and VIP tickets are now on sale via Eventbrite for the highly anticipated event. This year’s proceeds will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, turning a night of delicious exploration into meaningful support for kids and families across the region.
Guests can look forward to unlimited food tastings from more than a dozen of Brookhaven’s most celebrated restaurants. Multiple bars will pour signature cocktails and mocktails alongside wine, beer, and other favorites, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Live entertainment and performances will keep the energy high throughout the evening under the lights of Brookhaven City Centre.
VIP ticket holders receive elevated experiences, including access to a private rooftop pre-event mixer beneath the venue’s stunning Cherry Blossom Dome, an exclusive gift bag, and additional perks designed to make the night even more memorable.
Whether you’re a longtime Brookhaven food lover or discovering the city’s dining scene for the first time, Taste Brookhaven offers a vibrant, all-in-one evening of flavor, fun, and philanthropy. Secure your General Admission or VIP tickets now on Eventbrite and mark your calendar for Thursday, October 1—good food and a great cause await.
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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