• 1072 West Peachtree Tower is the tallest Atlanta building in 30 years.

    Atlanta’s Tallest New Tower in Decades Nears Completion

    3 Min Read

    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).

    RankBuilding NameHeight (ft / m)FloorsYear CompletedPrimary Function
    1Bank of America Plaza1,023 / 311.8551992Office
    2Truist Plaza867 / 264.3601992Office
    3One Atlantic Center820 / 249.9501987Office
    4191 Peachtree Tower770 / 234.7501992Office
    5Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel723 / 220.4731976Hotel
    6Georgia Pacific Tower697 / 212.5511981Office
    7Promenade II691 / 210.6401989Office
    8Tower Square677 / 206.4471980Office
    93344 Peachtree665 / 202.7482008Mixed-use
    101180 Peachtree657 / 200.2412006Office

    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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  • Atlanta's Hartfield ranks among best airports in U.S.

    Atlanta Airport Faces Flight Delays as Shutdown Strains Air Traffic Controllers

    4 Min Read

    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.

    Atlanta airport message on delays.

    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

    AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local coverage. Have a tip? Email tjohnson@atlantafi.com.

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  • AWS Outage Affecting Several Web Services in Atlanta

    4 Min Read

    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:

    SectorAffected Companies/ServicesImpact Highlights
    Gaming & EntertainmentFortnite (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 & CommunicationSnapchat, Signal, Facebook (partial), RedditLogin failures and messaging blackouts. Snapchat, with 400M+ daily users, went dark globally, stranding friends in limbo.
    10
    Finance & CryptoCoinbase, 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 & ToolsCanva, Duolingo, Slack, Zoom, Perplexity AIDesign files frozen, lessons paused, meetings derailed. Perplexity’s CEO tweeted: “Root cause is an AWS issue—we’re resolving.”
    3
    Amazon EcosystemAmazon.com, Prime Video, Alexa, RingE-commerce carts abandoned, smart homes silenced. Ring users reported being “trapped” indoors by unresponsive alarms.
    6
    Other EssentialsMcDonald’s app, HMRC (UK gov), OnlyFansFast-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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  • best tech companies in Atlanta

    Top Tech Companies In Atlanta

    5 Min Read

    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.
    Mailchimp Atlanta headquarters

    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
    NCR office in Atlanta

    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
    Calendly Atlanta headquarters

    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 offices in Atlanta

    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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  • Bomb Threat Closes I-75 in Cobb; Suspicious Item Safely Removed

    2 Min Read

    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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  • UGA vs. Auburn score 2025

    5 Key Takeaways From Georgia’s 20-10 Win at Auburn

    4 Min Read

    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!

    Watch the Georgia Bulldogs game at these top Atlanta bars.

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  • Herschel Walker confirmed as Ambassador to Bahamas

    Herschel Walker Is Now the U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas

    4 Min Read

    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.

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  • Tyrese Booked, Released on Animal Cruelty Charge After Dog Attack in Buckhead

    4 Min Read

    Renowned actor and singer Tyrese Gibson, best known for his roles in the Fast & Furious franchise, was booked into Fulton County Jail early Friday morning on a misdemeanor charge of cruelty to animals, authorities confirmed.

    The arrest stems from a tragic incident last month in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood where one of Gibson’s four Cane Corso mastiffs allegedly fatally mauled a neighbor’s beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

    Gibson, 46, voluntarily turned himself in to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office around 6 a.m., according to Capt. Nicole Dwyer of the Fulton County Police Department.

    He posted a $20,000 bond shortly after and was released from custody later that morning. This marks the culmination of an ongoing investigation that began with multiple complaints about Gibson’s dogs roaming loose in the community.

    The deadly encounter unfolded on September 18 in the Harrison Park area of Buckhead, when neighbors reported Gibson’s powerful Cane Corsos — a breed known for its strength and protective instincts — escaping his property and attacking the small spaniel during a walk.


    The victim dog’s owner, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, rushed the injured pet to an emergency veterinary clinic, but it succumbed to its injuries despite medical intervention.

    Fulton County Animal Services responded to the scene, documenting the attack and issuing Gibson a formal warning. Police records indicate this was not an isolated event; the dogs had been spotted running at large in the neighborhood at least five times in recent months, prompting prior notices from authorities.
    On September 7, Gibson received a citation for failing to secure a special permit required for owning more than 10 dogs, though the exact number of animals on his property remains unclear.

    Four days later, on September 22, officers and animal control personnel visited Gibson’s residence to enforce the surrender of the four Cane Corsos. According to the arrest warrant affidavit, Gibson, speaking by phone from the property, refused immediate compliance and requested additional time to make arrangements.
    When he did not follow through, authorities obtained both a search warrant for the home and an arrest warrant for Gibson on the cruelty charge, citing his alleged negligence in controlling the animals.

    “This incident has left me shocked, devastated, and heartbroken for the family affected,” Gibson wrote in a statement shared on his Instagram account shortly after the warrant was issued. 1 His legal team echoed the sentiment in a follow-up release, emphasizing that “Tyrese’s heart is truly broken, and he has been praying for the family constantly, hoping they may one day find it in their hearts to forgive him.”
    The statement also noted that Gibson had been working cooperatively with prosecutors to secure a consent bond, allowing for his prompt release upon surrender.

    Buckhead residents expressed a mix of shock and frustration over the news, with one longtime neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, telling an Atlanta news station, “We’ve seen those big dogs running around before, but no one expected something like this. It’s heartbreaking for everyone involved — the poor little dog didn’t deserve that.” Community leaders have called for stricter enforcement of local leash laws and permitting requirements to prevent similar tragedies.

    Gibson, a Georgia native who has long called metro Atlanta home, has not commented further since turning himself in

    His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled, but the misdemeanor charge carries potential penalties including fines up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail, though first-time offenders often receive probation or community service.

    As the Fast & Furious star’s legal saga unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities pet owners face in densely populated urban areas like Buckhead. AtlantaFi.com will continue to follow developments in this case.

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  • Iconic Midtown Atlanta Staple EATS to Close After 33 Years

    3 Min Read

    In a bittersweet farewell to one of Atlanta’s enduring culinary landmarks, the beloved meat-and-three restaurant EATS announced on Friday, Oct. 3 that it will shutter its doors for good on October 18 after more than three decades of serving up affordable Southern comfort food and jerk chicken favorites to generations of diners.

    EATS Is Shutting Its Doors

    Nestled on Ponce de Leon Avenue just across from the bustling Ponce City Market on the edge of Midtown, EATS has long been a no-frills haven for locals and visitors alike.

    Opened in 1993 by Bob Hatcher and Charlie Kerns in a repurposed swingers club, the spot quickly became synonymous with hearty, wallet-friendly plates of fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and its signature jerk chicken that drew crowds from all walks of life.

    The closure, emblematic of the rapid gentrification sweeping Ponce de Leon from Midtown to Poncey-Highland, comes amid a wave of redevelopment spurred by the Eastside BeltLine and the 2014 opening of Ponce City Market

    New boutique hotels, retail shops, and trendy eateries have transformed the corridor, but at the expense of longtime institutions like EATS, which has weathered economic shifts, the pandemic, and now, an evolving neighborhood landscape.

    Owners did not specify a single reason for the decision in their public statement, though the announcement follows a recent vandalism incident that affected EATS and several nearby businesses earlier this week.

    Atlanta police have made an arrest in connection with the damage, but Hatcher and Kerns emphasized a desire to end on a high note with their community

    “If you ever sat down for a meal here, pulled up with your people, or stopped by for a jerk chicken to go, we’d love to see you one last time,” the statement read. “Come through, say hello, and help us close this wild chapter the way it began: together.”

    Patrons have already begun sharing memories on social media, reminiscing about late-night pasta dinners—think chicken Alfredo or spaghetti and meatballs—after Braves games or BeltLine strolls. “EATS was more than a restaurant; it was the heartbeat of Ponce,” tweeted one longtime customer, echoing sentiments from Atlanta’s food scene where the spot’s unpretentious vibe stood in stark contrast to the area’s upscale newcomers.

    As EATS prepares for its final service, staff assured there will be ample seating for farewells, inviting first-timers and regulars to raise a glass (or a side of cornbread) to 33 years of flavor

    In an era of fleeting pop-ups and high-concept dining, the loss of EATS serves as a poignant reminder of Atlanta’s evolving palate—and the irreplaceable role of spots that fed both body and soul.

    For those hoping to snag one last plate, EATS will operate normal hours until closing day. No word yet on future plans for the space or whether Hatcher and Kerns will revive the concept elsewhere.

    Final Word

    Speaking of dining in Midtown, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called 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.

    Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta

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  • Tyrese Gibson dog attack

    Actor Tyrese Gibson Sought by Police After Dogs Kill Neighbor’s Beloved Pet in Buckhead

    3 Min Read

    Grammy-nominated singer and “Fast & Furious” star Tyrese Gibson is wanted by Fulton County authorities after his four Cane Corso mastiffs allegedly mauled and killed a neighbor’s 5-year-old King Charles Cavalier Spaniel in the affluent Buckhead neighborhood last month.

    The deadly attack, captured on doorbell camera footage, has sparked outrage among residents and led to an arrest warrant for Gibson on charges of cruelty to animals.

    The incident unfolded on September 18 around 7 p.m. near Gibson’s home in the Tuxedo Park area of Buckhead. According to police reports, the victim’s owner, identified as Parker, returned home to find his dog, Henry, lifeless in the driveway—”just a little pile of fluff,” as Parker heartbreakingly described it.

    Henry, whom Parker raised from a puppy and called his “best friend,” had been attacked by Gibson’s loose dogs, leaving the small spaniel no chance against the powerful breed known for its strength and protective nature.

    Parker recounted the devastating discovery to 11Alive, saying, “He was always, like, a little scared of other dogs, you know, so I can’t imagine, like, the fear he felt as they killed him.”

    He added, “I just want justice for Henry,” emphasizing the deep bond he shared with his pet.

    This was not the first time Gibson’s dogs had caused alarm in the community. Fulton County Animal Services records show the animals were reported running loose at least five times in the five months leading up to the attack, prompting multiple warnings to Gibson more than a week prior.

    Just minutes before the fatal mauling, a neighbor called 911 in panic after the four Cane Corsos surrounded her car, blocking her from entering her home. Animal control officers arrived to safely escort the woman inside.

    Fulton County Police obtained a search warrant for Gibson’s property following the incident and attempted to serve an arrest warrant days later, but the actor was not at home.

    Authorities gave Gibson additional time to surrender voluntarily, but as of Tuesday, he remains at large, with police continuing their search.

    In response, Gibson has admitted responsibility for the tragedy, stating that it occurred while he was away from home. He has since rehomed all four dogs to what he described as a “safe and loving environment.”

    His attorney, Gabe Banks, issued a statement expressing “deepest condolences” to Parker’s family and affirming Gibson’s cooperation with investigators. “Mr. Gibson is committed to the safety of the community and the well-being of animals,” Banks said.

    However, Parker’s frustration boiled over upon learning of Gibson’s recent social media post announcing a “mental health break” until November, which he viewed as tone-deaf amid the ongoing investigation.

    “It’s upsetting,” Parker told reporters, highlighting the lack of direct outreach from Gibson.

    Fulton County Animal Services Commander Capt. Nicole Dwyer stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership, noting that the breed’s size and temperament require vigilant containment. “We’ve issued warnings, but this tragic outcome underscores why we take these reports seriously,” Dwyer said.

    As the search for Gibson continues, neighbors in Buckhead—a neighborhood prized for its quiet streets and high-end homes—are left grappling with shaken trust. “We moved here for peace, not this kind of chaos,” one resident told FOX 5 Atlanta anonymously.

    ATL News will provide updates as this story develops. If you have information on Gibson’s whereabouts, contact Fulton County Police at (404) 613-6774.

    More: Tyrese Gibson’s Divorces Athens Woman

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