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Fresh architectural renderings released this week paint a vivid picture of The Stitch, the transformative highway-capping project poised to knit together Atlanta’s downtown and midtown neighborhoods with nearly 17 acres of lush greenspace.
Unveiled by Central Atlanta Progress (CAP) during the third week of October, the updated visuals highlight a more streamlined Phase 1 design, featuring interactive playgrounds, misty water features, and shaded pavilions that promise to turn a concrete scar into a vibrant community hub.
New Renderings Update The Stitch
The renderings, crafted by Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects in collaboration with WSP engineers and Hargreaves Jones landscape architects, depict a compact greenspace bounded by Peachtree Street to the west, Courtland Street to the east, Ralph McGill Boulevard to the south, and the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church campus to the north.
Gone is the sprawl of earlier concepts; this revised Phase 1 shrinks from a previously planned 5.7 acres to a more focused footprint, emphasizing high-impact elements like a large contemporary playground, an interactive “Fog Forest” water fountain that can generate ethereal mists, winding pathways through gardens, and a performance pavilion for events and shade.
Social gathering spots and forested areas round out the vision, all elevated above the bustling Downtown Connector (I-75/85) on a new 450-foot bridge spanning the interstates between the existing Peachtree and Courtland Street bridges.
“This is more than just a park—it’s a once-in-a-generation infrastructure project that will reshape the heart of downtown Atlanta,” said LaChandra Burks, a key collaborator with city officials. “With better roads, paths, and bike lanes, we’ll make it easier for Atlantans to live, work, and play in this great city.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a financial lifeline for the long-gestating initiative.
In July, the project suffered a blow when the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—signed into law by President Donald Trump—rescinded $151.4 million in federal grants originally awarded in 2024, slashing funding to just over $6 million.
Undeterred, organizers rallied to secure $50 million through the newly established Stitch Special Services District, approved by the Atlanta City Council in April.
This funding, drawn from property taxes on nearby owners (modeled after mechanisms for the Atlanta Beltline and The Battery Atlanta), will propel design work and cover operations, maintenance, and programming. 10
Jack Cebe, director of The Stitch, emphasized the momentum: “Funding is secured, with $50 million allocated to advance design and construction and the Stitch Special Services District providing a dedicated operations funding stream.
Today, the vision is no longer abstract. Together with our great partners, we’re implementing the Stitch Master Plan to ignite an estimated $5 billion in private sector investment and $9 billion in economic impact.”
The Stitch aims to cap and partially tunnel a half-mile stretch of the Connector, healing a 60-year-old divide that has isolated Black neighborhoods like Buttermilk Bottom and Sweet Auburn from the city’s core since the highway’s construction in the 1950s.
Beyond Phase 1, future expansions will stretch toward the Civic Center MARTA Station and Baker-Highland Connector, incorporating broad tree canopies, expansive lawns, public art installations, a dog park, and even a skate park.
The full build-out, estimated at $713 million, could take until 2036, but CAP projects it will unlock 25,000 new homes (including 3,000 to 3,400 affordable units), 4,500 jobs, and a surge in parkland access—boosting the current ratio from 7 acres per 1,000 residents to levels that enhance mental and physical health citywide.
To help residents envision the future, CAP has installed an augmented reality mural on the Medical Arts Building at 384 Peachtree St. NE, complete with a QR code for immersive previews.
Officials, including those from the Georgia Department of Transportation and Mayor Andre Dickens’ office, reaffirmed their commitment, targeting permits and shovel-ready status by mid-2026, with Phase 1 groundbreaking to follow in 2027 and completion around 2030.
A.J. Robinson, president of CAP and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District, hailed the progress: “A downtown that’s more vibrant and connected than ever is taking shape.”
Final Word
As Atlanta grapples with urban renewal in the post-pandemic era, The Stitch stands as a beacon of equitable redevelopment, blending green innovation with economic revival.
For more details, visit the project’s interactive site or scan the AR mural downtown. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on this and other city-shaping initiatives.
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In a stunning development that’s rippling through the NBA and beyond, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups were arrested Thursday, Oct. 23 as part of a sweeping federal investigation into illegal sports betting.
The probe, led by the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Brooklyn, has ensnared at least six individuals so far, with more charges expected to be unveiled at a press conference later today.
FBI Betting Probe Snags NBA Stars
For Atlanta sports fans, the news hits close to home—not just because of the league-wide implications for teams like our own Atlanta Hawks, but amid Georgia’s heated debate over legalizing sports bettiing.
As state lawmakers consider bills that could put the issue to voters as early as next year, this high-profile scandal underscores the shadowy risks lurking in the gambling underworld.
“This is a stark reminder that even the pros aren’t immune,” said local gaming analyst Dr. Elena Vargas, who follows Georgia’s legislative push. “As we inch toward legalization, we need ironclad safeguards to prevent these kinds of manipulations from taking root here.”
The Arrests and the Trail of Suspicious Bets
Rozier, a former Charlotte Hornets star who was traded to Miami in January 2024, was apprehended at a hotel in Orlando, Florida, just ahead of the Heat’s matchup against the Magic.
Sources familiar with the case point to a March 23, 2023, game between the Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans as ground zero for the investigation.
That night, sportsbooks across multiple states flagged a barrage of unusual wagers—30 bets totaling $13,759 in under 46 minutes—placed by a professional bettor on the “under” for Rozier’s points, rebounds, and assists props.
Rozier, then with Charlotte, logged just 10 minutes before exiting with a foot injury, a move that sidelined him for the rest of the season and sparked immediate outcry from bettors on social media decrying “shady” activity.
Here’s the game in question:
The Heat guard’s attorney, Jim Trusty, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, noting that Rozier cooperated fully with FBI and NBA investigators starting in 2023. “Terry is innocent and looks forward to clearing his name,” Trusty told ESPN.
Billups, the 2004 NBA champion and current Blazers bench boss, was arrested in Portland on unrelated illegal gambling charges, though details remain scarce.
His involvement doesn’t appear tied to games he coached, but the case echoes the league’s ongoing crackdown on betting integrity.
This isn’t isolated: The probe links back to the 2024 lifetime ban of former Toronto Raptors center Jontay Porter for a similar prop-betting scheme, where he and accomplices pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges.
In total, reports indicate up to 31 people could be implicated nationwide.Why Atlanta Should Care: Hawks, Rivalries, and the Betting Boom
While neither Rozier nor Billups calls Georgia home, their arrests carry direct weight for Peach State hoops enthusiasts.
Rozier spent five seasons torching the Hawks as a Hornet, averaging 20.3 points per game in 14 matchups against Atlanta from 2019 to 2024—enough to make him a familiar (and frustrating) foe for Hawks fans at State Farm Arena.
With the 2025-26 season underway, the Heat visit Atlanta on December 15, a game now overshadowed by uncertainty.
Billups, meanwhile, has his own Southeast ties: As a Detroit Pistons legend, he orchestrated epic playoff battles against Atlanta in the early 2000s, including a 2008 Eastern Conference Finals sweep.
Today’s Blazers aren’t on the Hawks’ schedule this year, but the scandal’s NBA ripple effects could tighten league scrutiny on all teams.
Final Word
Bigger picture? Georgia’s sports betting landscape is on the cusp of transformation.
Despite daily fantasy sports being the only legal outlet for now, bills like House Bill 686 are gaining traction in the General Assembly, with a potential voter referendum eyed for 2026.
Proponents argue it could generate $300 million in annual revenue for education and infrastructure; critics, including faith-based groups, warn of addiction and crime spikes.
This FBI sweep—unveiled just days after a key legislative hearing on October 16—could sway the conversation.
“Events like this highlight why regulation matters,” Vargas added. “Georgia has a chance to learn from the feds’ playbook and build a system that’s transparent and player-protected from day one.”
The NBA has suspended comment pending the full charges, but commissioner Adam Silver has long championed strict anti-gambling policies since the league’s 2018 partnership with sportsbooks.
For now, Atlanta bettors—many crossing state lines to wager legally in neighboring Tennessee or Alabama—will watch warily as the league grapples with its evolving relationship to the $100 billion U.S. betting industry.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates as the press conference unfolds and Georgia’s gambling saga heats up. Have thoughts on sports betting in the Peach State? Sound off in the comments below.
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After two and a half years of construction and intense anticipation among local development enthusiasts, Atlanta’s skyline is reaching new heights.
The 1072 West Peachtree tower, the tallest new structure built in the city since the early 1990s, is set to officially top out on November 7, according to Urbanize Atlanta. The event will mark a major milestone in Midtown’s transformation.
The Rockefeller Group, the project’s ownership team, alongside general contractor Turner Construction, announced today that the 60-story high-rise will see its final beam hoisted into place during a ceremonial event next month.
About 1072 West Peachtree Tower
Crafted by Atlanta’s TVS, 1072 West Peachtree aims to up the ante when it comes to office luxury as the city’s most amenitized tower, featuring a high-end spa, concierge, valet, smart building technology, and Midtown’s largest outdoor deck with sweeping Atlanta views.
Set to open in Spring 2026, 1072 West Peachtree will deliver an impressive array of amenities.
The tower’s 10th floor spans more than an acre of indoor and outdoor spaces, boasting Midtown’s biggest outdoor deck with collaborative and lounge seating, plus a versatile lawn perfect for gatherings, games, or special events. Indoors, the expansive 30,000-square-foot level houses stylish lounges, versatile meeting and conference rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness club offering spa therapies, recovery facilities, yoga sessions, and strength-training equipment.
Residents and visitors can also enjoy all-day dining choices, from quick coffee and grab-and-go bites to sophisticated full-service eateries.
Rising 60 stories, this iconic structure blends elegance, inspiration, and rejuvenation for an unparalleled live-work experience.
Top-Out Ceremony Planned
The topping-out, a tradition signaling a building’s structural completion, will cap off construction that began with an official groundbreaking in July 2023.
While decorative elements for the tower’s crown are still to come, the event will celebrate the culmination of years of planning and work on the glassy skyscraper.
Standing prominently in Midtown, 1072 West Peachtree is poised to redefine Atlanta’s skyline with its sleek design and commanding presence.
The project has been a focal point for urban development watchers, who have tracked its progress with near-obsessive interest.
Once completed, the tower will house a mix of office, residential, and retail spaces, further cementing Midtown’s status as a hub for business and culture.
The Rockefeller Group and Turner Construction will host the topping-out ceremony, inviting stakeholders and community members to celebrate this historic moment for Atlanta’s growth.
Top 10 Tallest Buildings in Atlanta
Here is a list of the 10 tallest buildings in Atlanta, based on architectural height (including spires but excluding antennas).
Rank Building Name Height (ft / m) Floors Year Completed Primary Function 1 Bank of America Plaza 1,023 / 311.8 55 1992 Office 2 Truist Plaza 867 / 264.3 60 1992 Office 3 One Atlantic Center 820 / 249.9 50 1987 Office 4 191 Peachtree Tower 770 / 234.7 50 1992 Office 5 Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel 723 / 220.4 73 1976 Hotel 6 Georgia Pacific Tower 697 / 212.5 51 1981 Office 7 Promenade II 691 / 210.6 40 1989 Office 8 Tower Square 677 / 206.4 47 1980 Office 9 3344 Peachtree 665 / 202.7 48 2008 Mixed-use 10 1180 Peachtree 657 / 200.2 41 2006 Office Read our guide on Atlanta’s Tallest Buildings and Their History.
Final Word
As the city looks skyward, 1072 West Peachtree stands as a testament to ambition and architectural innovation, promising to leave a lasting mark on the city’s evolving landscape.
Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape continues to evolve, thanks to large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalization. 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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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest hub for passenger traffic, is grappling with escalating flight delays due to severe air traffic control staffing shortages, exacerbated by the ongoing U.S. government shutdown now in its 20th day.
Tempers flared around midday in the airport when a man yelling he was going to “shoot up” the facility was detained by law enforcement.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed early Monday, Oct. 20 that these issues are rippling through major gateways, including Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, and Newark, leaving thousands of travelers stranded and disrupting the city’s vital role as a Southeast travel nexus.
The shutdown, which began on October 1 amid partisan gridlock in Congress, has forced approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers nationwide to work without pay, leading to a spike in sick calls and absences.
Government Shutdown Snarls Air Traffic in Atlanta
At Atlanta’s Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), which oversees vast airspace across the Southeast, staffing has been cut by up to 50% in some shifts, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
This has triggered ground delays averaging 30 to 45 minutes for incoming and outgoing flights, with some passengers reporting waits exceeding an hour.
“We were supposed to be wheels up at 6 p.m. for a quick hop to Orlando, but we’ve been sitting here since 5,” said frustrated traveler Maria Gonzalez, a Atlanta-based teacher waiting at Concourse T. “It’s chaos—families with kids, business folks missing meetings. This shutdown is hitting home hard.”
The airport released the following statement on social media earlier in the day.
Similar stories echoed through the terminal, where Delta Air Lines, which routes over 80% of flights through ATL, issued apologies via overhead announcements and offered meal vouchers to those affected.
The FAA’s advisory highlighted that the Atlanta ARTCC is among the hardest-hit facilities, alongside towers in Chicago’s O’Hare and Newark Liberty.
Flight tracking data from Cirium shows over 3,000 delays nationwide in the past week alone, with Atlanta contributing hundreds—up from a typical 5% staffing-related delay rate to 53% during peak hours.
Experts warn the situation could worsen as the holiday travel season looms, potentially mirroring the 2019 shutdown when absences ballooned and New York-area traffic was throttled to avert crises.Pre-existing woes compound the crisis. The FAA has been short about 3,500 controllers for over a decade, relying on mandatory overtime and six-day weeks even before the furloughs.
“We’re already critically understaffed, and now unpaid workers are understandably calling out,” said Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). “In Atlanta, that means fewer eyes on the skies over one of the busiest corridors in the country—safety is non-negotiable, so delays are the only buffer.”Local leaders are sounding the alarm. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, whose city economy leans heavily on airport revenue—generating over $40 billion annually—called for swift congressional action in a statement Monday.
“ATL isn’t just an airport; it’s Atlanta’s economic engine. These delays are costing jobs, small businesses, and peace of mind for our residents,” Dickens said.
Georgia’s congressional delegation, split along party lines, has traded barbs over the impasse, with Republicans blaming Democrats for blocking funding bills and Democrats pointing to spending cuts as the root cause.
Airlines for America, the industry’s trade group, echoed the urgency: “It’s safe to fly, but these shortages strain the system, spacing out flights and slowing everything down.”
Delta, a Peachtree City headquarters giant, has rerouted some flights and urged passengers to check apps for updates, while offering flexibility for rebookings.
As negotiations stall in Washington, Atlantans are advised to arrive three hours early, monitor FAA alerts, and consider alternatives like MARTA rail or rideshares to navigate the terminal snarl.
Final Word
With fall break underway and Thanksgiving on the horizon, the pressure mounts: Will lawmakers ground the gridlock before it grounds the Peach State?
Traveling with your significant other is the best way to go. Looking for a destination? There are some great cities that you can vacation in for cheap right now.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
- Holiday Travel Tips To Save Time and Money
- Traveling Abroad? Pack This International Travel Checklist
- How To Save Money Flying Out of Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local coverage. Have a tip? Email tjohnson@atlantafi.com.
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In the high-stakes arena of technology, Atlantans woke up Monday, Oct. 20 without many of the services they rely on every day: Amazon Web Services (AWS), the colossus powering roughly a third of the global cloud infrastructure, suffered a cascading failure that rippled across the internet like a digital earthquake.
What started as a regional hiccup in Northern Virginia’s US-EAST-1 data centers left millions of users staring at error screens, from Fortnite lobbies to Venmo transactions.
The outage was yet another stark reminder of our collective over-reliance on a single web provider for all things internet.
How Is Atlanta Being Affected?
Atlanta, Georgia, often dubbed the “Silicon Peach” for its booming tech ecosystem, is no stranger to AWS dependency.
With over 150 companies in the metro area relying on the platform for everything from data storage to app hosting, and major players like Delta Air Lines and The Home Depot headquartered here, the outage exposed vulnerabilities in a city that’s become a Southeast tech powerhouse.
During the outage, which peaked around 3:11 AM ET, users reported widespread issues with the Delta app and website—delayed check-ins, inaccessible boarding passes, and stalled reservations.
While no flights were grounded (thanks to redundant on-ground systems), the digital chaos meant longer lines at counters and frustrated travelers scrambling for paper tickets.
The Spark: A DNS Glitch Ignites Global Chaos
The outage kicked off around 3:11 AM ET (12:11 AM PDT), though user reports began flooding Downdetector as early as 8 AM GMT.
AWS’s status page quickly lit up with alerts: elevated error rates and latencies in core services like DynamoDB (a NoSQL database powerhouse) and EC2 (virtual computing backbone)
The root cause? A DNS resolution failure for DynamoDB API endpoints in US-EAST-1, the most trafficked AWS region and a de facto nerve center for global services.
Amazon Responds
Engineers at Amazon sprang into action, deploying mitigations across parallel paths, but the damage was done. By mid-morning, over 15,000 complaints had spiked on outage trackers, with AWS confirming “significant signs of recovery” only after 6 AM ET.This wasn’t a cyberattack—no evidence of foul play emerged—but a classic operational gremlin: a configuration slip or network overload in Virginia’s data hubs, which host critical control planes for worldwide AWS operations. 12 The fallout? A “domino effect” on any service leaning on AWS for storage, compute, or authentication.
The Casualties: A Roll Call of Digital Dependencies
The breadth of the blackout was staggering, underscoring how AWS isn’t just infrastructure—it’s the invisible scaffolding of our online lives.
Here’s a snapshot of the hardest-hit sectors and players, drawn from real-time reports and user outcries:
Sector Affected Companies/Services Impact Highlights Gaming & Entertainment Fortnite (Epic Games), Roblox, Pokémon GO, PlayStation Network, Disney+ Servers offline; millions unable to log in or stream. Roblox saw a 10x spike in complaints, halting virtual economies mid-transaction. 2 Social & Communication Snapchat, Signal, Facebook (partial), Reddit Login failures and messaging blackouts. Snapchat, with 400M+ daily users, went dark globally, stranding friends in limbo. 10 Finance & Crypto Coinbase, Robinhood, Venmo, Lloyds Bank (UK) Trading halts and payment glitches. Coinbase assured users “all funds are safe” but couldn’t process logins; Venmo users joked on X about “free IOUs.” 0 Productivity & Tools Canva, Duolingo, Slack, Zoom, Perplexity AI Design files frozen, lessons paused, meetings derailed. Perplexity’s CEO tweeted: “Root cause is an AWS issue—we’re resolving.” 3 Amazon Ecosystem Amazon.com, Prime Video, Alexa, Ring E-commerce carts abandoned, smart homes silenced. Ring users reported being “trapped” indoors by unresponsive alarms. 6 Other Essentials McDonald’s app, HMRC (UK gov), OnlyFans Fast-food orders stalled; tax filings disrupted. Even niche hits like Wordle and MyFitnessPal joined the fray. 14 Airlines like Delta and United saw app glitches but no widespread flight delays, per FlightAware.
Globally, the pain was uneven—hardest in the US and Europe, lighter in parts of Asia—but it touched everything from crypto validators to AI queries.
Lessons from the Rubble: Building a More Robust Digital Future
Outages like this aren’t novel—recall the 2024 CrowdStrike fiasco that grounded flights worldwide—but they sting sharper in an AI-accelerated era where downtime means lost queries, frozen models, and evaporating trust.
AWS mitigated the core issue by 6:48 AM ET, with most services throttling back to life, though lingering delays persisted into the afternoon.
Amazon’s stock barely flinched in premarket, a nod to investors’ outage fatigue, but for everyday users and businesses, it was a wake-up call.
Final Word
The cloud’s promise was boundless scalability, not brittle centralization.
October 20 exposed the cracks, but it also spotlights how resilient a city and state can be when systems go down.
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As the leaves turn in the Peach State, Atlanta’s tech scene is heating up like never before. Dubbed the “Silicon Peach” or the “Silicon Valley of the South,” the city is experiencing explosive growth, with tech employment projected to surge 2.9% this year—outpacing national averages.
From global Fortune 500 companies to early-stage startups, Atlanta boasts of a thriving tech ecosystem that spans across software and fintech markets.
What Are The Top Tech Companies In Atlanta?
With a diverse cultural demographic that makes up its tech community, major tech companies are opening offices in Atlanta, making it a tech capital worth paying attention to.
The city is attracting top tech talent from around the world, and its strong educational institutions are producing a steady stream of skilled graduates, fueling the growth of its tech sector. Whether you’re looking for established tech giants or innovative startups, Atlanta’s tech scene has something to offer for everyone.
Here are 10 tech companies in Atlanta you should know:
Mailchimp
- Address: 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308.
- Number of employees: over 1,000.
An email marketing automation platform that allows businesses to create and send email campaigns, build landing pages, and automate their marketing. Founded in 2001 in Atlanta by Ben Chesnut and Dan Kurzius Mail chimp remains a powerful digital marketing tool in the world today.
NCR Corporation
- Address: 864 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Number of employees: over 34,000
Leading providers of software, hardware, and services for the financial, retail, and hospitality industries. With global headquarters in Atlanta they have earned an international reputation in running technology platforms.
Calendly
- Address: 271 17th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
- Number of employees: over 400
Founded in 2013 in Atlanta the online scheduling platform simplifying the process of scheduling appointments and meetings through its scheduling automation platform.
Google
- Address: 10 10th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Number of employees: over 500
Google has an office in Atlanta. The multinational technology specializing in internet-related services and products, including search engines, online advertising technologies, cloud computing, and software also has offices in Atlanta.
United States.KMS Technology
- Address: 400 Colony Square, 1201 Peachtree St NE #2220, Atlanta, GA 30361.
- Number of employees: over 1,000.
A software outsourcing company that provides software development and testing services.
SalesLoft
- Address: 1180 West Peachtree Street Northwest #700, Atlanta, GA 30309.
- Number of employees: over 700.
A sales engagement platform that helps sales teams close more deals.
Banyan Software
- Address: 3475 Lenox Rd NE #500, Atlanta, GA 30326.
- Number of employees: over 100.
A company that acquires and grows enterprise software businesses. Banyan Software is headquartered in Atlanta and has a portfolio of companies that provide software solutions to a range of industries, including
healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.Microsoft
- Address: 8000 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta, GA 30009.
- Number of employees: over 800 (in Georgia, including Atlanta).
Microsoft has an office in Atlanta provides services and support to businesses and customers throughout the South-eastern United States functions across the Southern Eastern region primarily focuses on sales, marketing, and
technical support.Infor
- Address: 1175 Peachtree St NE #1900, Atlanta, GA 30361.
- Number of employees: over 17,000.
A cloud-based software company that provides industry-specific applications for a range of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail.
Cash App
- Address: 1455 Market St 600, San Francisco, CA 94103 (headquarters), but they
also have an office in Atlanta. - Number of employees: over 3,000.
A mobile payment service that allows users to send and receive money with just a few taps on their smartphone. Cash App also provides a free debit card called Cash Card, which users can use to make purchases and withdraw cash from
ATMs.Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Atlanta Tech EventsWith the buzz from Venture Atlanta 2025 still fresh (October 15-16), the calendar is packed with opportunities to network, learn, and innovate. Here’s a roundup of must-attend tech happenings starting today:
Atlanta Tech Events Happening This Month
- Talking Tech – Christina Shim, IBM Chief Sustainability Officer (October 18, 2-3 PM at Mimms Museum): Dive into sustainability in tech with IBM’s top exec leading the conversation on green innovations.
- TAG Invest Connect: Meet, Pitch, & Partner (October 21, 12:30-6 PM): Hosted by the Technology Association of Georgia, this event connects investors, startups, and partners for high-stakes pitching.
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium Behind the Scenes Technology Tour and Innovation Showcase (October 21, multiple sessions 3-7 PM): Explore cutting-edge tech powering the iconic stadium, from AI to fan experiences.
- ATL CleanTech Connect (October 22, all day): Georgia Tech’s forum on cleantech opportunities, featuring industry leaders, VCs, and faculty discussions.
- SecureWorld Atlanta (October 23, 7:30 AM-5 PM): Premier cybersecurity conference tackling threats, compliance, and strategies for the digital age.
- WIT Awards 2025 (October 23, 5-8 PM): Celebrate women in tech with awards, networking, and inspiration from trailblazers.
- The AI Challenge: From Idea to Demo in 2 Hours (October 25, 10 AM-3 PM): Hands-on hackathon by Modern Web to prototype AI solutions rapidly.
- Women + Tech Meetup (November 12, time TBD at Atlanta Tech Village): Monthly series for women in tech to learn, network, and build community.
- ATL Startup Village #102 (December 8, time TBD at Atlanta Tech Village): Southeast’s largest quarterly entrepreneur gathering for pitches, demos, and connections.
- Pitch Practice (Recurring Fridays starting November 7 at Atlanta Tech Village): Free sessions to hone investor pitches, perfect for founders at any stage.
Final Word
Move over, Silicon Valley. Atlanta’s tech companies have top-notch talent across all areas of the business, including engineering, design, marketing, and sales. This means that Georgia’s largest city is attracting and retaining the best people, fostering a culture of collaboration and learning, and providing opportunities for professional growth.
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A bomb threat led to the temporary shutdown of Interstate 75 in Cobb County on Friday afternoon, causing significant traffic disruptions for commuters in the metro Atlanta area. Authorities responded to reports of a possible pipe bomb on the highway, prompting an immediate investigation and closure of the roadway in both directions.
The incident occurred between Delk Road and Windy Hill Road, near Terrell Mill Road, according to Cobb County police. Officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a suspicious item that resembled a pipe bomb.
All Lanes Open After Bomb Threat On I-75
The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office bomb squad was called in to assess the situation, leading to the full closure of I-75 southbound and northbound lanes as a precautionary measure.
“This is a developing situation, and we’re taking every precaution to ensure public safety,” a spokesperson for Cobb County police stated in an initial update.
Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes, with heavy backups reported extending several miles in both directions. The closure impacted rush-hour traffic, stranding drivers and causing delays across the region.
After a thorough examination, the bomb squad determined the scene was safe approximately one hour later.
A containment truck was deployed to remove the suspicious item from the interstate. Officials confirmed that the roadway was in the process of reopening, with no injuries reported and no confirmed explosives found.
The exact nature of the threat and how it was reported remain under investigation. Authorities have not released details about potential suspects or the origin of the report at this time.
This incident comes amid a series of recent hoax threats in the area, including a separate bomb hoax in Marietta earlier this month.
AtlantaFi.com will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as more information becomes available. Drivers are encouraged to check real-time traffic apps and avoid the area if possible until full normalcy is restored.
For the latest traffic updates, visit the Georgia Department of Transportation website or follow local authorities on social media. If you have any information related to this incident, contact Cobb County police.
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The No. 10 Georgia Bulldogs grinded out a gritty 20-10 victory over rival Auburn on Saturday night at Jordan-Hare Stadium, extending their dominance in the series to nine straight wins and their streak against unranked opponents to 45 games.
Trailing 10-3 at halftime after a sluggish start, the Bulldogs flipped the script in the second half, outscoring the Tigers 17-0 while showcasing the resilience that’s become a hallmark of Kirby Smart’s program.
With the win, Georgia improves to 5-1 overall and 3-1 in the SEC, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes firmly in sight against a tough 2025 football schedule. Here are five key positives from the Bulldogs’ hard-fought road triumph.
1. 2nd-Half Defensive Shutdown Proves Grit
Georgia’s defense, which allowed 141 yards in the first quarter alone, transformed into a brick wall after halftime, blanking Auburn and limiting them to just 40 total yards on three first downs.
Standout plays like linebacker CJ Allen’s goal-line strip sack—forcing a fumble from Auburn QB Jackson Arnold on third-and-goal—prevented a back-breaking touchdown and sparked the comeback.
This second-half shutout, the Bulldogs’ second of the season, underscores their ability to adjust and dominate when it matters most, holding Auburn to zero third-down conversions in the final two quarters.
2. Gunner Stockton’s Dual-Threat Poise Steers the Ship
Quarterback Gunner Stockton bounced back from a rocky first half to deliver a masterful performance, completing 24 of 37 passes for 217 yards with zero interceptions while adding 26 rushing yards and a crucial 10-yard touchdown scamper to seal the game.
His leadership shone on the game-clinching 16-play, 78-yard drive that chewed up a school-record-tying 8:45 off the clock, including key conversions on third-and-8 and third-and-2.
Stockton’s efficiency and mobility not only tied the game but also iced it, proving he’s more than capable of guiding Georgia through adversity.
3. Special Teams Steps Up with Clutch Kicks and Coverage
Peyton Woodring was a hero under the lights, drilling a 29-yard field goal late in the first half to cut the deficit to 10-3 and a career-long 53-yarder in the third quarter to give Georgia its first lead at 13-10. The senior kicker, now 6-for-7 on field goals this season, also handled two PATs flawlessly, accounting for eight of the Bulldogs’ points.
Punter Brett Thorson complemented him with a 53-yard average, including a 60-yard boot, while returner Zachariah Branch’s 24-yard kickoff return added spark. In a game of inches, Georgia’s special teams provided the margin for victory.
4. Running Game and Balance Fuels Efficient Drives
Despite Auburn’s early rush defense stifling them for just 19 yards in the first half, Georgia’s ground attack came alive with Chauncey Bowens’ 2-yard tying touchdown run in the third quarter—his fourth score of the year—capping a swift 63-yard, five-play march.
The Bulldogs finished with balanced production, converting 5 of 11 third downs overall and excelling on critical short-yardage situations like fourth-and-1.
This offensive versatility, blending Stockton’s runs with timely passes to receivers like Noah Thomas (30-yard grab) and Branch (career-high nine catches for 57 yards), wore down the Tigers and controlled the tempo.
5. Resilience Amid Injuries Reinforces Depth and Heart
Even with key absences like right tackle Juan Gaston’s lower-leg injury (he returned by halftime) and cornerback Ellis Robinson sidelined, Georgia’s depth rose to the occasion without missing a beat.
Freshman Noah Thomas made his first start as a Bulldog with a pivotal 30-yard reception on the tying drive, while linebackers like Raylen Wilson (six tackles) and CJ Allen (10 tackles, one sack) filled gaps seamlessly.
This never-quit mentality—rallying from their own 1-yard line for an 88-yard scoring drive before halftime—highlights the Bulldogs’ toughness, a trait that’s carried them through nine wins in the last 10 meetings with Auburn.
Final Word
As Georgia turns its attention to a top-5 showdown with No. 4 Ole Miss next weekend, this victory serves as a timely reminder of their playoff pedigree.
The Bulldogs’ ability to overcome a fast start by the Tigers and impose their will bodes well for the stretch run. Go Dawgs!
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As autumn leaves turn and holiday lights flicker on, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is gearing up for its annual role as the nation’s sky-high crossroads.
With forecasts pointing to all-time highs in air travel for Thanksgiving and Christmas 2025, the world’s busiest airport could see upwards of 3 million passengers in a single day during peak rushes – a testament to Atlanta’s enduring pull as a hub for family reunions, festive escapes, and last-minute dashes home.
Hopefully you’ve already booked your ticket for travel during the holidays.
This article will show you how to save money on travel for new year if you’re an apprehensive traveler. Here’s what you need to know about flying this holiday season.
Holiday Travel: How To Save Money And More
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) projects a staggering 19.5 million passengers will pass through U.S. security checkpoints from Tuesday, November 25, through Tuesday, December 2 – a roughly 6.5% jump from last year’s record 18.3 million, fueled by pent-up demand and stabilizing fuel costs.
Busiest days? Expect gridlock on Wednesday, November 26 (pre-Turkey Day frenzy), and Sunday, November 30 (the great return), with daily screenings topping 3.1 million nationwide.
For ATL alone, that could mean over 250,000 travelers daily, straining concourses already buzzing with Delta’s expanded holiday schedules.
For the fall, there have been some good sales, especially with Southwest Airlines, so you can save money if you want to. The real issue is whether you’re ready to risk it all to fly to a vacation destination or home for the holidays.
If you want to know what safety measures airlines have put in place, here’s what to know:
Typically, you may be asked to quarantine from 10 to 14 days, so you’d better have some vacation days to spare.
How To Save On Holiday Travel
Let’s talk about some ways you can save on holiday travel. Always check Southwest’s Fare Calendar for days with cheaper prices. If you’re traveling abroad, I love Going.com as well. Also…
1. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
The Sunday after a holiday weekend is always the most expensive day to travel. Make sure you remain flexible so that you can book the cheapest travel days, which are typically a few days earlier or later than the weekend.
The cheapest days to buy travel is typically a couple days before a holiday — except when those days happen to fall on any of the three weekend days. So that means buying on Tuesday through Thursday is typically your best bet.
Read about the best days to book a flight.
2. Pack One Bag Only
If you want to save money, always only take one travel bag with you. Most airlines charge between $35 to $45 for a carry-on bag. That’s up to $70 to $90 coming and going.
For example, Delta Air Lines charges $45 for a second checked bag.
Even if you have to wear the same thing for a day, it’s worth it to save on baggage fees.
3. Look For Travel Bundles
If you need a rental car, you can save money if you bundle that purchase with your airfare. The same is true for hotels, although you typically won’t need one if you’re going home for the holidays.
Travel sites like Priceline and Orbitz has deals galore on trip bundles that include flights and hotel itineraries.
4. Plan For Cancellations
The holiday travel period is the most vulnerable time for airline cancellations. The sheer volume of passengers makes it almost inevitable that cancellations will happen.
What you can do is prepare by planning alternate travel plans, including a road trip.
Final Words
If you plan on traveling for the holidays this year, now is the time to book your ticket. Airfare is likely to increase in the weeks ahead as the airline industry tries to make grow profits for the holidays.
The main thing you need to remember is that airline travel has changed drastically since early in the pandemic. You will need to pack differently, including bringing plenty of masks and gloves.
You will also need to adjust your eating habits as many restaurants close their kitchens earlier or still have limited menus.
Whatever you do, try to have fun and be safe on your travels.
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. And don’t forget these travel hacks to save money and time.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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In a move that’s sparking both celebration and controversy across the Peach State, former Georgia Bulldogs running back Herschel Walker was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, Oct. 7 as the next ambassador to the Bahamas, filling a diplomatic post vacant for nearly 15 years.
The 51-47 vote along party lines marks another high-profile appointment for President Donald Trump’s administration, rewarding a loyal ally who once electrified gridirons and Georgia politics alike.
Herschel Walker Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas
Walker, 63, rose to national fame in the 1980s as a Heisman Trophy winner at the University of Georgia and a bruising star for the USFL before joining the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings.
His post-football life took a political turn in 2022, when he challenged Democratic incumbent Sen. Raphael Warnock in a heated Senate race that put Georgia’s spotlight on issues like abortion rights and gun violence—scandals that dogged Walker’s campaign, including allegations of threatening his ex-wife with a gun and undisclosed children.
Though he fell short, Walker’s unyielding support for Trump kept him in the former president’s orbit.The confirmation comes amid a flurry of Trump nominees sailing through the Senate, thanks to recent changes to filibuster rules that streamlined the process.
As the first U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas since 2011, Walker steps into a role focused on strengthening bilateral ties in trade, tourism, and security—key for a Caribbean nation that draws thousands of Georgians annually for sun-soaked escapes.
“This is a tremendous honor, and I’m ready to represent America with the same grit I brought to the field,” Walker said in a statement released Wednesday morning, thanking Trump for the nomination and Senate Republicans for their support.
Atlanta Reacts
In Atlanta, reactions are as divided as a Falcons-Packers rivalry. Local sports fans and conservative leaders hailed the pick as a nod to Georgia’s football heritage.
“Herschel’s a Peach State icon—tough, determined, and unbreakable. The Bahamas just got a powerhouse diplomat,” tweeted Georgia GOP chair Josh McKoon, echoing sentiments from many who packed a watch party at a Midtown sports bar Tuesday night.
UGA’s athletic director, Mike Carson, added in a brief email to our newsroom: “Herschel embodies Bulldog spirit. We’re proud to see him carry that to the world stage.”But not everyone’s raising a toast with conch fritters. Progressive voices in Atlanta’s Black communities, where Walker underperformed in 2022, decried the appointment as political patronage over qualifications. “When you suck up to Trump enough, you get a federal job—sick,” one local activist posted on X, referencing Walker’s past admissions of struggling with dissociative identity disorder.
@annettewickstr1 Another user quipped, “Herschel Walker confirmed as US embarrassment,” highlighting lingering unease over his campaign missteps.
At a community forum in Southwest Atlanta Wednesday, residents like Maria Gonzalez, a Warnock supporter, questioned the fit: “We need ambassadors who know diplomacy, not just touchdowns. This feels like rewarding loyalty over leadership.”
Critics Decry Walker’s Appointment
Walker’s nomination, first announced in July, faced minimal scrutiny during hearings, where he touted his experience in anti-gang initiatives and mental health advocacy as assets for addressing Bahamas’ challenges like drug trafficking and climate resilience. Critics, however, pointed to his lack of foreign policy credentials, with one Senate Democrat calling it “a reward for a failed campaign.”
As Walker prepares to take the oath—likely within weeks—eyes in Atlanta turn to what this means for Georgia’s diplomatic footprint. Could it boost tourism ties between Hartsfield-Jackson and Nassau’s airports? Or open doors for Falcons exhibition games on white-sand pitches?
One thing’s certain: The man who once ran for 2,000 yards in a season is now sprinting into uncharted territory.For more on Walker’s journey from Athens to Nassau, stay tuned to Atlanta Local News. Got thoughts on this appointment? Share in the comments below.
Final Word
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? 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.
