Category: News

Attention, shoppers! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent warning to Atlanta consumers not to eat, sell, or serve certain lots of Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp sold at Walmart stores due to potential contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.

The recall, prompted by detections at the Port of Savannah and other U.S. ports, has raised alarms about food safety in the region.

Walmart Shrimp Recall: What To Know

The affected products, sourced from Indonesian supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods), include Great Value Frozen Raw Ez Peel Tail-On Farm-Raised White Vannamei Shrimp in 2-pound bags with the following lot codes and best-by date:

• Lot code: 8005540-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027
• Lot code: 8005538-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027
• Lot code: 8005539-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027

These products were distributed to Walmart stores across Georgia, including numerous locations in the Atlanta metro area, as well as 12 other states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia.T

he FDA’s investigation began after U.S. Customs and Border Protection detected Cesium-137 in shipping containers at four U.S. ports, including Savannah, Georgia, a major hub for imported goods. While no contaminated shrimp has entered U.S. commerce, the FDA confirmed the presence of Cesium-137 in a sample of breaded shrimp from the same supplier, prompting a precautionary recall.

The agency noted that the affected shrimp “appears to have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions,” potentially leading to contamination.

Walmart has acted swiftly, issuing a sales restriction and removing the implicated products from shelves in affected stores.

“The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority,” said Kelly Hellbusch, a Walmart spokesperson. “We are working with the supplier to investigate and have recalled the product from impacted stores. Customers can return these products to any Walmart location for a full refund.”

Cesium-137, a man-made radioactive isotope produced during nuclear reactions, is a concern due to its potential to increase cancer risk with prolonged low-level exposure.

While the FDA emphasizes that the detected levels are below its “derived intervention level” and pose no immediate health hazard, the recall aims to minimize any long-term risks. Consumers who suspect exposure to elevated levels of Cesium-137 are advised to consult their healthcare provider.

Atlanta residents are urged to check their freezers for the recalled shrimp and dispose of any matching products immediately. “If you’ve got Great Value frozen shrimp with these lot codes, don’t cook it, don’t eat it—throw it away,” the FDA stated. Local health officials are also encouraging Atlantans to stay informed through the FDA’s website and Walmart’s recall page for updates.

The recall has sparked concern among Atlanta’s seafood consumers, given the city’s proximity to the Port of Savannah, where some of the contaminated shipments were intercepted. Georgia’s shrimping industry, already grappling with challenges from foreign competition, has called for stronger federal oversight of imported seafood.

Final Word

The FDA is collaborating with Indonesian regulatory authorities to investigate the root cause of the contamination and has placed BMS Foods on an import alert, banning their products from U.S. markets until the issue is resolved.

For Atlanta shoppers, this recall serves as a reminder to verify product details and stay vigilant about food safety. Consumers with questions can contact Walmart or visit the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance portal to report concerns or adverse reactions.

The Atlanta area is a big city, but it’s also close enough to the countryside that you can enjoy the mountains by driving for less than an hour.

But that’s not all: Georgia has some beautiful state parks you can check out along the way. Here’s a guide.

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Navigating Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport requires preparation due to its size and high traffic. Arrive early, use the Plane Train, check flight status, and leverage apps for real-time updates.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about flying out of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport.

1. Arrive Early

Timing: Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times or holidays. ATL is large, and navigating security lines, parking, and train transfers can take time​.

• Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure. If checking bags, aim for 2.5 hours.
• International Flights: Arrive 3 hours prior to account for customs, immigration, and additional security checks.
• Peak Times: Expect longer lines during early mornings (5 AM–9 AM), evenings (4 PM–7 PM), weekends, and holidays. Add an extra 30 minutes during these periods.

Tip: Check real-time security wait times using the MyTSA app or ATL’s official website (atl.com) to plan your arrival

2. Parking Options

ATL offers a variety of parking options, including on-site hourly and daily lots, economy lots, and ParkATL Reserve for guaranteed spaces. Off-site parking lots often provide shuttles to the terminal and can be more cost-effective​.

• On-Site Parking: Options include hourly ($36/day), daily, economy, and ParkATL Reserve for guaranteed spots. Rates range from $14/day (Park-Ride) to $36/day (hourly lots).
• Off-Site Parking: Cheaper alternatives like PreFlight Airport Parking offer shuttles to terminals. Ideal for long-term parking.
• Handicap Parking: Available near elevators and shuttle stops in all lots.

Tip: Check parking availability on ATL’s website and consider off-site lots for cost savings.

3. Security Checkpoints

ATL has multiple TSA checkpoints spread across Terminals North and South. Check which checkpoint is best for your airline. Consider using TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to expedite the process.

Read up on TSA wait times.

• Check-In: Use online check-in (24 hours prior) or self-service kiosks to save time. Have your ID and boarding pass ready.
• Security Checkpoints: Located in both Domestic (North/South) and International Terminals. Peak times can see waits of 45+ minutes.
• TSA PreCheck/CLEAR: Enroll to expedite security. International Terminal security may be less crowded for domestic flights; take the Plane Train to your concourse.
• TSA Guidelines: Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids (3.4 oz or less in a quart-sized bag). Avoid prohibited items like sharp objects or fireworks.

Tip: Place large electronics (e.g., laptops) in a separate bin for screening. Pack carry-ons in layers for easier inspection.

4. Transportation To and Between Terminals

The Plane Train runs underground between all concourses and terminals. It’s the fastest way to move through the airport. Walking is also an option, as the concourses are connected by underground walkways​.

• MARTA (Public Transit): The Red and Gold lines connect directly to the Domestic Terminal’s Airport station. Cost: ~$2.50/ride. Trains run every 10–20 minutes, taking ~20 minutes to downtown Atlanta.
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Designated pick-up zones are outside both terminals. Fares to downtown range from $20–$50, depending on demand.
• Taxis: Available at both terminals with flat rates to downtown (~$30). No pre-booking needed.
• Airport Shuttles: Shared shuttles (e.g., Atlanta Airport Shuttle) cost $16–$35 per person. Book in advance for efficiency.
• Driving: Budget extra time for traffic on I-75, I-85, or I-285, especially during weekday mornings or Friday afternoons.

Tip: If driving, use cell phone waiting areas for free pick-up/drop-off to avoid circling.

5. Dining and Shopping

ATL boasts a wide range of dining options, from local favorites like Chick-fil-A and Paschal’s to upscale restaurants. Duty-free shops, boutiques, and convenience stores are located in all concourses.

• Local Favorites: Chick-fil-A, Paschal’s (soul food), Chicken + Beer (Concourse D).
• National Chains: Shake Shack, Starbucks, Chipotle, P.F. Chang’s.
• Upscale: Ecco, The Piano Bar (Concourse F).
• Shopping: Duty-free shops (Concourse F), boutiques (Tumi, MAC Cosmetics), and convenience stores (CVS Pharmacy kiosk).

Tip: Order food via apps to skip long lines, especially during peak hours.

Read our guide on where to eat at the Atlanta airport.

6. Wi-Fi and Amenities

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Travelers can also take advantage of amenities such as nursing pods, relaxation areas, and the Delta Sky Club lounges if eligible​.

• Wi-Fi: Free “ATL Free Wi-Fi” is available, but it’s unsecured—avoid sensitive transactions without two-step authentication.
• Lounges: Delta Sky Club (Concourses A, B, C, D, E, F), American, United, Centurion Lounge, and The Club at ATL (Priority Pass).
• Special Services: Nursing pods, family restrooms, sensory room (Concourse F, code from Delta check-in), pet relief areas, and wheelchair assistance (contact your airline).
• Charging Stations: Free stations are scattered throughout, but outlets may be limited near some gates. Bring a portable charger.

7. Check Flight Status

Use the airport’s official app or website to track your flight’s status, gate changes, or delays. Alerts can help you adjust your timing if needed​.

8. Transportation to/from the Airport

Options include MARTA trains, ride-sharing services, taxis, and shuttles. MARTA’s Red and Gold lines connect directly to the Domestic Terminal, making it a convenient and affordable option​.

Public Transit (MARTA)

• Details: MARTA trains are a quick and cost-effective way to travel between the airport and Atlanta. The Red and Gold lines connect the airport directly to downtown and other areas.
• Cost: $2.50 per ride, with discounts for frequent riders or those with Breeze cards.
• Location: The MARTA station is inside the Domestic Terminal, near baggage claim.
• Timing: Trains run every 10-20 minutes, depending on the time of day.

Ride-Sharing Services

• Services: Lyft, Uber, and other rideshare companies operate at ATL.
• Pick-Up Zones: Rideshare pickups are in designated areas at both Domestic and International Terminals. Follow signs or use the app for directions.
• Cost: Varies based on distance and demand; expect a range from $20-$50 for most city destinations.

Taxis

• Availability: Taxi stands are located outside both terminals.
• Flat Rates: Some trips, such as to downtown Atlanta, may have flat rates (e.g., ~$30).
• Convenience: No need for pre-booking; just queue at the stand.

Airport Shuttles

• Shared Shuttles: Companies like Atlanta Airport Shuttle provide shared rides to hotels and other destinations.
• Cost: Typically $16-$35 per person, depending on the distance.
• Advance Booking: Recommended for efficiency.

9. International Travelers

International flights typically depart from Concourse F in the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal. Allow extra time for customs and security checks.

10. Special Services

If you require assistance, ATL provides accessibility services, including wheelchair support, visual and hearing aids, and a sensory room for passengers with autism.

Final Word

Flying out of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), one of the busiest airports in the world, can be a smooth experience if you plan ahead. Here’s what you should know:

By planning ahead and familiarizing yourself with the airport’s layout and services, you can make your travel experience out of ATL smooth and stress-free.

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Life Time Perimeter recently opened in Sandy Springs, expanding its Atlanta presence in a major way.

Now Open: Life Time Perimeter

As the ninth Life Time location in Atlanta, this location blends fitness, recovery, work, and leisure in a sophisticated, modern space.Transforming the former Concourse Athletic Club, the three-story Life Time Perimeter caters to health-conscious professionals, couples, and families.

Love Life Time? Check out some of the best gyms in Atlanta.

Its open-concept design, abundant natural light, and extensive indoor-outdoor amenities create an inviting environment for wellness, productivity, and community.

“Life Time Perimeter enhances our Atlanta portfolio, delivering our signature healthy lifestyle experience to a dynamic community,” said Parham Javaheri, Executive Vice President, President Club Operations, and Chief of Property Development at Life Time. “As office returns grow, we’re thrilled to support weekday routines and weekend activities, welcoming both returning and new members to this revitalized space.”

Situated on three acres along Interstate 285 and Georgia 400, Life Time Perimeter offers convenient access for Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and nearby residents.Key features include:

• Eight outdoor pickleball courts and five tennis courts (four clay, one hard).
• Beach club-style outdoor lap and leisure pools with lounge seating and a snack bar.
• Indoor lap pool, four squash courts, and a running/walking track.
• Four boutique studios for barre, group fitness, yoga, and Pilates, plus dedicated spaces for Signature Group Training (Alpha, GTX, UltraFit), with over 100 weekly classes.
• Expansive fitness floor with top-tier cardio, resistance machines, and free weights.
• Recovery space with stretching, water massage, cold therapy chairs, compression tech, percussion devices, metabolic testing, and nutrition coaching.
• Luxurious dressing rooms, a coed hydrotherapy suite with cold plunge, whirlpool, steam rooms, sauna, and infrared saunas.
• Life Time Work Club Lounge for meetings and remote work.
• Kids Academy with infant room, toddler area, and language arts studio.
• LifeCafe offering healthy meals, shakes, and a juice bar.

Where Is Life Time Perimeter in Sandy Springs?

Located at 8 Concourse Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30328 between Sandy Springs’ iconic King & Queen towers, this 79,000-square-foot athletic country club offers a premium wellness experience near the Perimeter Center business district and family neighborhoods. Here is a map to help you find it.

Life Time Perimeter joins other Atlanta-area clubs, including Alpharetta, Sugarloaf, Johns Creek, Woodstock, Peachtree Corners, Sandy Springs, and Buckhead, with the latter two featuring Life Time Work spaces. The company’s latest Atlanta opening was North Druid Hills in December 2024.

Open Monday–Friday, 4:00 a.m.–midnight, and Saturday–Sunday, 6:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m., Life Time Perimeter is located at 8 Concourse Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30328.

For membership details, visit Life Time Perimeter’s website or call 770-743-3600.

Final Word

Do you know how people stay in shape without going to LA Fitness and other places? They have a gym at home.

It’s no secret that women are ruling the world. In fact Beyonce tried to tell y’all that some years ago. Today they make up the #1 entrepreneurs in 50 of the biggest cities in America. From femtech to beauty products, women have their hands on the pulse.

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Walgreens is reducing the number of stores in its portfolio as part of a cost-cutting strategy to streamline its core retail pharmacy business. The recent announcement followed Walgreens revealing a net loss of $3 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024, up from $180 million a year prior.

As a result of the losses, Walgreens says it is implementing its “Footprint Optimization Program,” which will close nearly 300 stores across the United States.

Reasons for closures include underperformance, store redundancy, and high operational costs, exacerbated by regulatory pressures and legal settlements, such as those related to opioid litigation.

“This turnaround will take time, but we are confident it will yield significant financial and consumer benefits over the long term,” said CEO Tim Wentworth.

What Walgreens Stores Are Closing?

Below is a list of confirmed Walgreens store closures for 2025, based on available information:California:

• San Francisco (closing between February 24-27, 2025):
  • 1201 Taraval Street
  • 3201 Divisadero Street
  • 1363 Divisadero Street
  • 825 Market Street
  • 1750 Noriega Street
  • 5280 Geary Boulevard
  • 1524 Polk Street
  • 1301 Franklin Street
  • 1189 Potrero Avenue
  • 135 Powell Street
  • 1630 Ocean Avenue
  • 5300 3rd Street
• Oakland:
  • 301 E 18th Street (closing February 24, 2025)
  • 5055 Telegraph Avenue (closing February 27, 2025)
• Hayward:
  • 164 W. Jackson Street (closing May 22, 2025)
• Los Gatos:
  • 14100 Blossom Hill Road (closing May 22, 2025)
• Salinas:
  • 575 N. Sanborn Road (closing June 25, 2025)
• San Jose:
  • 1130 Foxworthy Ave. (closing May 20, 2025)
  • 350 N. Capitol Ave. (closing May 22, 2025)
• Sacramento:
  • 2900 Stockton Blvd. (closing June 25, 2025)

Illinois:

• Chicago (closing between February 17-27, 2025):
  • 7111 S Western Ave
  • 3405 S King Dr
  • 9148 S Commercial Ave
  • 1554 E 55th St
  • 4745 N Harlem Ave
• Rockford:
  • Kishwaukee Street (closing February 19, 2025)
• Chicago:
  • N. Sheffield Avenue (Northstar Health Care) (closing June 23, 2025)

Georgia:

• Augusta:
  • Washington Road and Bobby Jones Expressway (closing February 20, 2025)
• Decatur:
  • 2065 S Hairston Rd (closing May 22, 2025)
• Lawrenceville:
  • Old Norcross Road (closing May 19, 2025)
• Macon:
  • 4305 Mercer University Dr (closing May 21, 2025)
• Snellville:
  • Hewatt Road (closing May 20, 2025)
• Stone Mountain:
  • 5320 Memorial Dr (closing May 19, 2025)

Wisconsin:

• Racine:
  • 819 N Memorial Dr (closing July 27, 2025)
• Milwaukee:
  • 6442 N 76th St (closing July 27, 2025)

Indiana:

• Indianapolis:
  • 5095 E Thompson Rd (closing May 20, 2025)

Pennsylvania:

• Southampton:
  • 690 Second Street Pike (closing May 22, 2025)
• West Chester:
  • 10 E Street Rd (closing May 22, 2025)
• Norristown:
  • 3300 Dekalb Pike (closing May 19, 2025)
• Wyncote:
  • 2727 W Cheltenham Ave (closing May 15, 2025)

Connecticut:

• New Britain:
  • 1350 Stanley St (closing May 19, 2025)
• East Hartford:
  • 922 Silver Ln (closing May 20, 2025)
• East Haven:
  • Main Street (closing May 22, 2025)
• New Milford:
  • 173 Danbury Rd (closing May 21, 2025)

New Jersey:

• Pleasantville:
  • 855 N Main St (closing June 23, 2025)
• Cherry Hill:
  • Kings Highway N (closing May 19, 2025)

Texas:

• Houston:
  • 12620 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W (closing June 18, 2025)
• Dallas:
  • Camp Wisdom Road (closing May 21, 2025)

Colorado:

• Lakewood:
  • 7665 W Jewell Ave (closing May 22, 2025)

Florida:

• Jacksonville:
  • Soutel Drive (closing May 19, 2025)
  • Dunn Avenue (closing June 26, 2025)
• Miami:
  • NW 7th Avenue (closing June 25, 2025)

Massachusetts:

• Framingham:
  • 624 Waverly St (closing May 19, 2025)
• Lakeville:
  • 32 Main St (closing May 21, 2025)
• Salem:
  • 59 Boston St (closing May 19, 2025)
• Peabody:
  • 229 Andover St (closing May 20, 2025)
• Brockton:
  • Pleasant Street (closing June 23, 2025)
• Fall River:
  • S. Main Street (closing June 26, 2025)
• Gloucester:
  • Eastern Avenue (closing June 23, 2025)
• Springfield:
  • Boston Road (closing June 24, 2025)
• Swansea:
  • Wilbur Avenue (closing June 23, 2025)
• Webster:
  • Main Street (closing June 24, 2025)
• Worcester:
  • Grafton Street (closing June 25, 2025)

Maryland:

• Essex:
  • 6 S Marlyn Ave (closing May 20, 2025)

North Carolina:

• Sanford:
  • 830 Spring Ln (closing May 20, 2025)
• Durham:
  • Broad Street (closing June 24, 2025)
• Raleigh:
  • Wake Forest Road (closing June 26, 2025)
• Richlands:
  • Richlands Highway (closing May 21, 2025)

New York:

• Middletown:
  • 1 Fitzgerald Dr (closing May 21, 2025)
• Brooklyn:
  • 5th Avenue (closing May 21, 2025)
• New York City:
  • Lexington Avenue (Duane Reade) (closing June 24, 2025)
• Syracuse:
  • Genesee Street (closing June 26, 2025)

Ohio:

• Garfield Heights:
  • Turney Road (closing June 24, 2025)
• Reynoldsburg:
  • Brice Road (closing June 10, 2025)

Washington:

• Bremerton:
  • State Highway 303 NE (closing June 23, 2025)

West Virginia:

• Clendenin:
  • Elk River Road N. (closing June 25, 2025)
• Follansbee:
  • Main Street (closing June 11, 2025)
• Mullens:
  • Moran Avenue (closing June 23, 2025)
• New Martinsville:
  • 3rd Street (closing June 10, 2025)
• Oceana:
  • Cook Parkway (closing June 26, 2025)
• Whitesville:
  • Lewis Street (closing June 24, 2025)

Final Word

A comprehensive list of all 500 closures for 2025 has not been fully released, but the above includes confirmed locations from multiple sources.

Walgreens has stated they will work to minimize customer disruptions, including transferring prescriptions to nearby locations and attempting to retain most employees, though reassignments may depend on union agreements.

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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Thomas “Tom” Cousins, a pivotal figure in Atlanta’s real estate and Georgia civic circles, died at 93, his family told local media outlets.

Cousins shaped Atlanta’s skyline through landmark developments like the CNN Center and Omni hotel, revitalized the East Lake neighborhood, restored the East Lake Golf Club, and brought the Tour Championship to the city.

Tom Cousins: An Atlanta Business, Real Estate Icon

Talking about his upbringing, Cousins said his first job was as a newspaper boy. As he grew, he began to get anxious about this central question: “How am I going to make a living?”

Over his 40-year career, he brought NBA and NFL franchises to Atlanta, donated land for the Georgia World Congress Center, and left a lasting mark on the metro area.

A generous philanthropist and former Atlanta Hawks owner, Cousins served as CEO of Cousins Properties until 2002 and chairman until 2006.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens mourned his loss, stating, “Tom Cousins’ vision shaped our skyline, his generosity rebuilt communities, and his values defined modern Atlanta. His legacy will guide what leadership should be.”

Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta to Isaac Cousins, an auto distributor for General Motors, Tom grew up in a modest family that moved frequently. As a child, he mowed lawns, delivered newspapers, and worked for a pharmacy.

He attended schools in Decatur and Rome, graduating from Darlington School in 1948. At 16, he enrolled at the University of Georgia, graduating in the top 10% of his class with a finance degree.

Final Word

Thanks to Cousins, Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.

Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.

Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.

See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.

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