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Gwinnett County, Ga. — King Harris, the son of Atlanta rapper T.I. (Clifford “T.I.” Harris) and singer Tameka “Tiny” Harris, was arrested early Sunday morning after a routine traffic stop escalated when he refused to exit his vehicle.
According to body camera footage obtained by TMZ and reports from local outlets, officers pulled over the 20-something aspiring rapper around 1 a.m. on April 12 while he was driving a Tesla Cybertruck on Holcomb Bridge Road near Peachtree Corners Circle.
King Harris Arrested After Trafficking Stop Escalates
Harris was clocked speeding — one report cited him traveling over 75 mph in a 45 mph zone, while another placed it at 60 mph in a 45 mph zone. He was also cited for not wearing a seatbelt.
During the stop, officers spotted a firearm on the dashboard and ordered Harris out of the vehicle to separate him from the weapon. Harris, who was wearing a bright yellow Pikachu onesie, remained seated and refused repeated commands to exit
He made calls to his lawyer while officers waited. The situation led to his arrest on a misdemeanor charge of willful obstruction of law enforcement officer.
A search of the vehicle turned up a THC vape pen containing 10 milligrams of THC, resulting in a felony charge for possession of a controlled substance (reported as Schedule II in some accounts). Harris was booked into the Gwinnett County Jail around 2:30 a.m. and released on bond approximately five hours later.
Body cam video released by Gwinnett County police shows the tense exchange, with Harris calmly but firmly declining to comply. His father, T.I., arrived at the scene shortly afterward to retrieve the Cybertruck and the firearm.
In the footage, T.I. is seen attempting to speak with officers and asking if the matter could be resolved without further action, but officers proceeded with the arrest and booking.20
Harris, who has pursued a career in music like his father, took to Instagram shortly after the incident with a series of lighthearted posts referencing his Pokémon-themed outfit.
One story featured his face with the caption, “Pikachu got pulled over THEY NOT CATCHING THIS PIKACHU TONIGHT.” A follow-up booking photo post read, “Welp guess you can say they caught da Pikachu wit a master ball.” He later shared a shirtless photo captioned “Fck dat police” and a video joking about his “good Pikachu life” being interrupted by “Team Rocket (F**IN POLICE).”
His mugshot, released by authorities, shows him still in the Pikachu onesie, which quickly went viral across social media.
This is not Harris’s first brush with the law. He has faced prior traffic-related charges, including a 2024 arrest tied to a failure-to-appear warrant stemming from an earlier speeding and suspended license case. T.I. and Tiny have not publicly commented on the latest incident as of Tuesday morning.
Gwinnett County police have not released additional statements beyond the body cam footage, citing the ongoing case.
Harris faces court dates on the felony drug possession, misdemeanor obstruction, and traffic citations.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by celebrity offspring navigating public scrutiny, even in seemingly routine encounters. As of now, no further updates on the legal proceedings have been announced.
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Atlanta — Parent company Seven & i Holdings announced that 7-Eleven plans to close 645 convenience stores across North America in fiscal 2026.
The move is part of an ongoing effort to optimize its portfolio by shedding underperforming locations, converting some sites to wholesale fuel operations, and focusing on larger, food-focused formats.
7-11 Store Closures: Hundreds of Locations Affected
While the national cutbacks are significant—the fifth straight year of net store losses for the chain—Georgia customers will see little to no change when it comes to 7-11 store closures.
The state has only a small handful of 7-Eleven locations (around 15, many operating under the Speedway banner), a tiny fraction of the chain’s roughly 12,000+ U.S. stores.
Why So Few 7-Elevens in Georgia?
Georgia’s convenience store market is dominated by strong regional players like QuikTrip, RaceTrac, and Circle K. Decades ago, many 7-Eleven locations in the Southeast were sold off (including to Circle K in the late 1980s), leaving the brand with a limited presence here compared to states like California, Texas, and Florida.
The few existing 7-Eleven/Speedway stores in the Atlanta metro area and North Georgia are unlikely to be heavily targeted in this round of closures, though the company has not released a state-by-state or location-specific list.
Broader Context for the Closures
- Net reduction: 7-Eleven expects to open more than 200 new locations while closing 645, for a net loss of about 440 stores.
- Strategy shift: Some “closures” involve converting sites to wholesale fuel models (which don’t count in the retail store tally) as the company moves toward bigger stores with enhanced fresh food offerings to compete with rivals like Wawa, Sheetz, and Buc-ee’s.
- Recent history: The chain closed hundreds of stores in 2024 and 2025 as part of the same portfolio optimization push.
What This Means for Georgia Shoppers
Georgia’s competitive c-store landscape—known for clean stores, fresh food, and excellent fuel pricing from local leaders—has long operated without heavy reliance on 7-Eleven.
The national shakeup at 7-Eleven is unlikely to disrupt local options.
For the small number of Georgia locations that could be affected, customers may see conversions to different formats or, in rare cases, full closures.
However, the state’s dominant players continue to expand aggressively, filling any potential gaps with new stores and upgraded experiences.
This latest announcement reflects broader industry trends: convenience retailers are consolidating weaker sites and investing in larger, higher-margin stores that emphasize foodservice over traditional quick-stop models.
In Georgia, that evolution is already well underway among the brands that dominate the market.
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ATLANTA, Ga. — Good news for Atlanta drivers tired of dodging craters on our roads: Your next Waymo ride could literally help fix the potholes plaguing the city.
Starting now, Waymo’s self-driving vehicles in metro Atlanta will use their advanced sensors and onboard systems to automatically detect and report potholes while shuttling passengers around town.
The data feeds directly into the Waze for Cities platform, giving Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) officials a powerful new tool to prioritize repairs more efficiently.
Waymo Joins Atlanta’s “Pothole Posse”
The pilot program, announced Thursday by Waymo and Waze (both under Alphabet), launches in five mature Waymo markets: Atlanta, the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Austin. Together, the fleets have already flagged about 500 potholes needing attention.
Atlanta revived its popular Pothole Posse program this year to tackle complaints coming in through 311. While resident reports remain important, they don’t always give a full picture of road conditions.
Waymo’s fleet — constantly rolling through neighborhoods, highways, and surface streets — can now help fill those gaps with real-time, data-driven insights.
“Potholes can cause significant vehicle damage and contribute to crashes,” Waymo said in its announcement. “This pilot program… is intended to help fill reporting gaps and support cities’ efforts to maintain safer streets.”
How It Works for Atlantans
- For riders: When you hop in a Waymo, the car is quietly scanning the road. You might even get a smoother ride as the vehicles learn to avoid detected hazards.
- For drivers on Waze: Pothole alerts from Waymo will start appearing in the app, just like user-reported ones, so you can steer clear.
- For the city: ATLDOT gets access to the data through Waze for Cities, helping crews target the worst spots faster and more equitably.
Andrew Stober, strategic partner manager at Waze, said the partnership builds on what Waze users have done for years: “This pilot program with Waymo adds another source of data… giving cities a clearer picture of road conditions.”
What This Means for Atlanta
Waymo launched commercial service here last June and has quickly become a common sight on Atlanta roads. This new initiative shows the company doubling down on being a good neighbor — turning everyday rides into useful data for fixing infrastructure that affects every driver in the city, whether you ride robotaxis or not.
City officials hope the extra eyes on the road will help the Pothole Posse keep up with Atlanta’s notorious wear-and-tear, especially after heavy rains or temperature swings.
Have you hit a bad pothole lately? Report it through 311 — and if you spot a Waymo, know it might be helping the city spot the next one.
Stay safe out there, Atlanta. Smoother roads could be on the way.
This story is developing. We’ll update as ATLDOT shares more on how the data is being used.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Atlanta, GA | April 2026 — In the heart of Kirkwood, where tree-lined streets meet a tight-knit community vibe, Urban Pie has been slinging pies for over 20 years.Tucked at 2012A Hosea L. Williams Dr. NE, this casual pizzeria and bar feels like your favorite local hangout—unpretentious, dog-friendly on the patio, and always buzzing with regulars.
I recent ate there and wanted to share my thoughts around it in case you’re in Kirkwood and want a good Atlanta pizza place.
The Vibe
Urban Pie nails that perfect Atlanta neighborhood spot balance: laid-back indoor seating with a cool, relaxed energy and a spacious patio ideal for people-watching or catching a game.
Staff are genuinely friendly and attentive, often treating you like family
It’s the kind of place where you can grab a quick slice and a craft beer or settle in for a full meal with friends. Bonus: free street parking and options nearby after hours.
The Food
Urban Pie specializes in thin, crispy New York-style crust with just the right chew—nothing soggy here when eaten fresh.
They offer a solid mix of signature pies, build-your-own options, wings (13 flavors!), salads, calzones, and even gluten-free and vegan choices that don’t feel like afterthoughts.
Standout Dishes We Tried/Loved:
- The Urban Pizza: Olive oil base, roasted garlic, spinach, roasted red peppers, feta, and mozzarella. Fresh, flavorful, and a great showcase of their veggie-forward creativity.
- Urban Beets: Homemade pesto, roasted veggies, and goat cheese (or vegan cheese swap). A standout for both meat-eaters and plant-based diners.
- BBQ Chicken or Kirkwood BBQ Chicken Pie: Sweet-smoky sauce, roasted chicken, smoked gouda, red onions, and scallions—comfort food done right.
- Other notables include creative options like Pickle Pie, Vegan Chorizo, or Thunderbird Pizza. Wings and truffle fries also get frequent shoutouts.
Portions are generous, prices are reasonable (most large pies around $24–$25), and the kitchen puts care into the details
Fresh ingredients shine, especially on the creative toppings. Note: Takeout can sometimes lose a bit of that fresh-from-the-oven crispness, so dine-in is ideal when possible.
Drinks & Extras
They’ve got a nice selection of craft brews (many local), plus other beverages. Desserts are creative if you’ve got room left. Events like bingo nights on the patio add extra fun to the community feel.
The Verdict
Urban Pie earns a solid 8.2/10 from us. It’s not chasing trends or fine-dining polish—it’s delivering reliable, tasty thin-crust pizzas in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or supporting a longtime Kirkwood business.
Some variability in service during busy times or with delivery is noted in reviews, but the overall love from locals (and creative menu) keeps us coming back.
If you’re in East Atlanta/Kirkwood, stop by. Great pizza, good friends, zero pressure—just how neighborhood spots should be.
Urban Pie
2012A Hosea L. Williams Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30317
(404) 373-2778 | urbanpieatl.com
Open afternoons/evenings—check for current hours. Delivery via major apps. -
ATLANTA — Colonial Pipeline has fully restored service on its critical Line 1, the primary gasoline artery supplying fuel from the Gulf Coast to East Coast markets, after a brief shutdown caused by third-party damage in Paulding County.
The company announced Wednesday that repairs were completed and the line was back in operation following the incident on Tuesday.
Colonial Pipeline Briefly Goes Offline in Paulding County
A third-party well-drilling crew accidentally damaged the pipeline in Paulding County, just west of Atlanta, prompting a temporary shutdown as a precaution.
Line 1 delivers about 1.5 million barrels of gasoline per day from Houston, Texas, to storage terminals in Greensboro, North Carolina.
From there, the fuel is distributed across the Southeast and up the East Coast to major hubs like New York Harbor. The quick resolution means minimal disruption for Georgia drivers and regional fuel supplies.
This marks the second notable issue for Line 1 in Paulding County in recent memory. Early last year, a leak in the same area led to a roughly five-day shutdown, though it had limited impact due to lower winter demand.
The timing of this latest event comes as U.S. gasoline prices have already climbed above $4 per gallon amid global energy market pressures. Local Atlanta-area stations have felt the pinch, with many drivers keeping a close eye on pump prices.
Colonial Pipeline, the largest fuel pipeline operator in the United States, emphasized that the rest of its system continued normal operations during the brief outage. No injuries or major environmental issues were reported from the incident.
What This Means for Metro Atlanta Drivers:
While the fast repair avoided any significant shortages, experts note that prolonged outages could affect supply chains and prices in Georgia and beyond.Authorities continue to stress the importance of safe excavation and drilling practices near critical infrastructure to prevent future accidents.
Stay with us at Atlanta Local News for updates on fuel prices, infrastructure developments, and how these events impact your wallet. We’ll keep you posted on any further details from Paulding County or Colonial Pipeline.
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NASA’s Artemis II mission tonight marks a historic milestone as the first crewed flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft since the Apollo era.
This 10-day lunar flyby will send four astronauts around the Moon, testing deep-space systems ahead of future Artemis landings.
The SLS rocket—NASA’s most powerful ever—will launch from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. If you’re searching for Artemis II launch time, NASA Artemis rocket launch, or how to catch every moment, here’s your complete guide.
Artemis II Launch Time and Schedule
Primary launch target: Wednesday, April 1, 2026, with the window opening at 6:24 p.m. EDT (22:24 UTC). The two-hour window closes at 8:24 p.m. EDT.34
NASA has additional backup opportunities if needed:
- April 2: ~7:22 p.m. EDT
- April 3: ~8:00 p.m. EDT
- April 4: ~8:53 p.m. EDT
- April 5: ~9:40 p.m. EDT
- April 6: ~10:36 p.m. EDT
- Next fallback: April 30, 2026, at ~6:06 p.m. EDT
The onsite countdown clock began ticking on April 1 at 4:44 p.m. EDT. Weather is currently favorable (around 80% chance for the primary window), with cloud cover and winds as the main concerns.5
Artemis II launch time in other time zones (April 1 primary):
- Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): 6:24 p.m.
- Central: 5:24 p.m.
- Mountain: 4:24 p.m.
- Pacific: 3:24 p.m.
- UTC: 22:24
Liftoff will propel the crew on a trajectory that loops around Earth before a distant lunar flyby (coming within about 6,000 miles of the Moon’s surface) and return to Earth.
Crew for Artemis II
The four-person crew includes:
- Commander Reid Wiseman (NASA)
- Pilot Victor Glover (NASA)
- Mission Specialist Christina Koch (NASA)
- Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen (Canadian Space Agency)
This diverse team will test Orion’s life support, navigation, and re-entry systems in deep space.
How to Watch the NASA Artemis Rocket Launch Live
You can follow the entire NASA Artemis rocket launch from home with multiple free options. NASA provides comprehensive coverage starting hours before liftoff.
Official NASA streams (recommended for the most detailed technical commentary):
- NASA YouTube channel: Live launch broadcast and pre-launch coverage.
- NASA+: Free streaming service with full mission coverage.
- Amazon Prime Video: Watch via NASA’s live channel (no Prime subscription needed for this content).
- Additional platforms: Peacock and others may carry the feed.
Live coverage typically begins in the early afternoon EDT, with intensive countdown starting around 12:50 p.m. EDT or earlier. NASA also offers a continuous 4K camera view of the rocket on the pad.21
Other ways to watch:
- Major news networks (CBS, NBC, etc.) will carry special reports with launch at ~6 p.m. EDT.
- YouTube channels from NASA Spaceflight, CBS News, and others for alternative angles and expert analysis.
- Social media: Follow @NASA, @NASAArtemis, and Kennedy Space Center for real-time updates.
For the best experience, open multiple tabs: one for NASA’s official feed (with mission audio) and another for public viewing cameras.
In-Person Viewing for the Artemis II Launch
If you’re near Florida, the NASA Artemis rocket launch creates a spectacular sight visible for miles.
Best public spots (free):
- Titusville area, especially the Max Brewer Bridge and along the Indian River (~10–12 miles from the pad). Arrive early for parking and traffic.
- Other locations along the Space Coast with clear eastern views.
Ticketed options:
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers special Artemis II Launch Viewing Packages at the Apollo-Saturn V Center (closest public viewing). These often sell out quickly. Note: On April 1–2, access may be restricted to ticket holders only.33
Visibility tips:
- The SLS rocket’s massive engines will produce a bright plume, potentially visible from parts of central Florida and even southern Georgia depending on timing and weather.
- Evening launches mean a dramatic twilight or nighttime show. Check real-time visibility maps from NASA or local outlets closer to launch day.
Be prepared for heavy crowds and road closures. Playalinda Beach is typically closed for SLS launches due to proximity.
What to Expect During the Launch and Mission
- T- minutes: Final fueling, crew ingress (astronauts board hours before), and “go/no-go” polls.
- Liftoff: Powerful ignition of the SLS core stage and solid rocket boosters—watch for the signature “waterfall” sound suppression.
- Ascent: Booster separation, core stage burn, and Orion separation.
- Mission highlights: Earth orbit, lunar flyby (no landing), and splashdown ~10 days later.
NASA will provide real-time tracking of the spacecraft throughout the journey.
Why Artemis II Matters
This mission paves the way for Artemis III (first crewed lunar landing in over 50 years) and eventual sustained human presence on the Moon. It tests critical technologies for Mars exploration and returns humans to lunar vicinity for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972.
Stay updated via NASA’s official Artemis II page for any last-minute adjustments to the Artemis II launch time or schedule. Delays are possible due to technical or weather issues, so monitor official sources.
Clear skies and safe travels to all watching this historic NASA Artemis rocket launch—whether from your couch or the Florida coast! The next giant leap for humanity begins soon.
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ATLANTA, GA — A 40-year-old Atlanta resident died Saturday night following an apparent injury while preparing to zipline at Toro Verde Adventure Park in Orocovis, Puerto Rico.
According to preliminary reports from Puerto Rican authorities, Tamirah Yasmeen Dix suffered a heavy blow to the face as she was getting ready for the ride.
Despite the incident, she completed the zipline course and reunited with her relatives, as detailed in accounts provided to agents from the Criminal Investigation Corps (CIC) of Vega Baja.
Tamirah Dix’s Death in Puerto Rico: What We Know
The group then went to lunch, but Dix said she did not want to eat. Shortly afterward, she went to the bathroom and vomited. Her condition quickly deteriorated, prompting her family to cut the outing short and head back to their hotel in Dorado.
While traveling along Highway PR-693, her health worsened significantly.
Relatives called 9-1-1, and an ambulance intercepted their vehicle to transport her to the Orlando Health Doctor’s Center hospital in Dorado. Medical staff attempted to resuscitate her, but she was pronounced dead at nightfall.
Dix’s body has been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Sciences in Río Piedras, where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.
Toro Verde Adventure Park is a popular destination known for its extensive zipline courses through Puerto Rico’s mountainous interior. No official statement from the park has been released as of Tuesday regarding the incident.
Friends and family in Atlanta are mourning the loss of Dix, who was visiting Puerto Rico as a tourist.
They have set up a GoFundMe to help with burial costs.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the potential risks associated with adventure activities, even at well-established venues.
Our thoughts are with Tamirah Yasmeen Dix’s loved ones during this difficult time. AtlantaFi.com will continue to follow developments as more information becomes available from Puerto Rican authorities.
This story is based on preliminary reports and family statements to investigators. The cause of death has not yet been officially determined.
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The Atlanta BeltLine, now a fully matured 22-mile loop of trails connecting vibrant neighborhoods, continues to be one of the city’s greatest assets—not just for walking, biking, and people-watching, but as a world-class dining corridor. What started as a visionary urban renewal project has evolved into a dynamic gastronomic destination, blending longtime icons with exciting new openings that draw locals and visitors alike.
This article will show you some of the best places to grab a bite on the Atlanta Beltline.
From wood-fired specialties and elevated street food to breezy patios perfect for post-trail relaxation, the BeltLine offers something for every craving and occasion. Whether you’re strolling the popular Eastside Trail, exploring the Westside, or venturing onto newer sections like the Northeast or Southside Trails, great food is never far away.
If you’ve ever been on it, you know the Atlanta Beltline is the most awesome thing to happen to the city in a long time (sorry Braves and Atlanta United).
Here Are The Best Restaurants On The Beltline
The many eateries up and down the Beltline range from all-breakfast spots, seafood spots like Breaker Breaker, lunch locations to late-night dinner destinations. Let’s dig in!
Two Urban Licks
820 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 522-4622
Two Urban Licks is an Poncey-Highland icon mere steps from the Eastside Trail. The lively spot roasts everything from brisket to whole fish over live flames, paired with a towering wine-on-tap wall. Funky blues, skyline vistas, and rotisserie drama make it a high-energy staple for date nights or celebrations.
Here’s what one diner says about Two Urban Licks: “The brisket was cooked optimally and the potatoes were seasoned perfectly.”
Muchacho
904 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 748-9254
Who doesn’t like SoCal tacos? Muchacho, Reynoldstown’s retro depot-turned-taqueria, hugs the Eastside Trail, dishing breakfast burritos, migas tacos, and agave-spiked cocktails from dawn till dusk. With gravel patios and ’70s flair, it’s the BeltLine’s go-to for all-day grazing.
Here’s what one reviewer says abotu Muchacho: “Ordered tacos based on the staff’s suggestions – one Migas and one Muchacho – and they were hearty and delicious.
Bomb Biscuit
668 North Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (678) 949-9439
Photo credit: Bomb Biscuits Here’s what one reviewer says about Bomb Biscuit. “A very cute breakfast nook in the O4W area. There is street parking. The restaurant has a dine-in area and a to-go spot next door. A reservation is recommended if you’re going during brunch/lunch rush. We had an 11:30 reservation on a Saturday and were seated right away! It’s not exactly a place to brunch for hours, but nice to meet up and then take a walk in the area to the Beltline.”
Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall
684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Ladybird features an outdoor bar and a pet-friendly “Grove” space for those with furry friends. With communal, beer garden-style tables, the Grove is the perfect place to bring your friends, co-workers or family.
One Flew South
670 DeKalb Ave NE Suite 102, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (470) 225-7119
Here’s what one customer says about One Flew South. “Inventive food, just what we were expecting from Todd Richards. The DIY deviled eggs with bacon jam were great fun. Shishito peppers were possibly best ever. Our mains, lamb ribs and drunken chicken & waffles, were both real pleasers. Ashley’s service was pleasant and attentive. Parking in the lot for Edge on the Beltline apartments is convenient. (Why is this place not packed of diners?!)”
Boxcar
1000 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (470) 788-8171
If you know about the Hop City Craft Beer & Wine team, you know that fresh brews are in their blood. Their new concept, Boxcar, just opened and is about to do for food for Hop City does for beer in Atlanta. Boxcar is located adjacent to the Atlanta Beltline’s Westside trail. Read more about Boxcar.
Ponce City Market
675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA
The Old Sears Roebuck Building is Midtown Atlanta’s crown jewel now, when it comes to development. The historic mixed-used development on Ponce De Leon Avenue on one side and North Avenue on the other is full of boutiques and offices.
Some notable places to eat inside Ponce City Market include:
New Realm Brewing
550 Somerset Terrace NE #101, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 968-2777
New Realm Brewing is the most popular brewery on the Beltline’s Eastline Trail.
Here’s what one reviewer says about New Realm Brewing: “We love going here for games and gathering with large groups, but we often frequent their downstairs bar for take out and a six pack from the to-go beer section! It’s so nice to be able to walk in for great food AND beer to-go!”
Krog Street Market
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Superica is OPEN for Takeout and Delivery | (678) 791-1310
Krog Street Market was an old decrepit warehouse that Tyler Perry turned into a cavernous studio before developers eyed it for a community space. With the success of Ponce City Market, developers saw this Old Fourth Ward spot as a perfect place for Krog Street Market.
Delbar
870 Inman Vlg Pkwy NE Suite 1, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 500-1444
Here’s what one reviewer says about Delbar-Inman Park. “Not sure where to start… But holy…. everything was amazing, from the service, to the food, to the drinks… Freaking tasty, and freaking amazing. Glad that the waitress welcomes you, and asks you if is the first time here so they can explain and recommends you a dish. I’m sure it’s a must go, I’m fascinated with everything and everyone here. The portions are huge and they don’t go easy on the food they serve. You can taste all the flavor and of all the seasonings they add to it. The drinks are great, super tasty, amazing, and I don’t have more words to explain it. If you are around this area you should and must come and give it a try, I am sure you won’t regret about coming.”
City Winery
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Enjoy a relaxing drink at City Winery at Ponce City Market. The restaurant’s music scene is unparalleled in the city. Add the Wine Down Weekends and this becomes a party all days of the week. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday starting at 6:30 p.m.
Hawkers Asian Street Fare
661 Auburn Ave NE #180, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (470) 809-1586
Hawkers Asian Street Fare is one of the best nighspots on the Atlanta Beltline.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Hawkers. “I’m honestly surprised this place doesn’t get better reviews. I’ve had two dishes here: Tom Yum soup and Curry Laksa soup. Both were very good (and spicy).”
Jai Ho Indian Kitchen
560 Dutch Valley Rd NE Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 458-6888
Authentic Indian food? Check out Jai Ho Indian Kitchen. Here’s one customer’s experience. “The food was great and the cocktails were amazing. The service for the appetizer and drinks was really quick, but slowed down during the main course. But the food made up for it. Really tasty Indian food. They mentioned spice levels but the Indian hot wasn’t very hot (try at your own risk though). Overall 8/10 would recommend.”
Muchacho
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.
But the ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
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Filmmaker and billionaire Tyler Perry attempted to provide direct financial support to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents working without pay at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, but federal regulations prevented him from doing so.
On March 26, 2026, Perry visited the busy airport amid an ongoing partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Tyler Perry Tries To Pay TSA Workers — and Is Thwarted
Many TSA agents have gone without paychecks since mid-February, yet they continue to perform critical security screening duties to keep air travel moving. The funding lapse has also contributed to longer security lines at some airports.
According to multiple reports, Perry arrived prepared to distribute cash directly to the agents as a gesture of appreciation and assistance. However, Department of Homeland Security rules prohibit TSA employees from accepting monetary gifts—or equivalents such as gift cards—while on duty.
These federal ethics regulations aim to avoid any appearance of conflicts of interest or undue influence, particularly in a workplace setting like airport security checkpoints.
Perry ultimately did not hand out the money. Instead, he reportedly spent time talking with the agents, shaking hands, and thanking them for their dedication during the difficult period. Sources indicated that the high-profile visit itself helped boost morale among the workers.
Aaron Baker, president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), noted that while direct cash gifts to individual agents on the job are restricted, unions representing TSA officers face fewer limitations. Unions can accept donations and distribute them to members in accordance with guidelines, offering a potential alternative channel for support.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Atlanta, GA – March 24, 2026 — The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that Zoo Atlanta has been granted accreditation by its independent Accreditation Commission.
This decision recognizes the zoo’s ongoing commitment to the highest standards in animal care, wellbeing, and management.
Zoo Atlanta Gets Accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
“Earning AZA accreditation demonstrates commitment to the global gold standard of animal care and wellbeing,” said Dan Ashe, President and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “We are honored to be able to celebrate Zoo Atlanta’s successful reaccreditation while in their home city during our AZA Mid-Year Meeting.
As one of our host facilities, over 1,200 zoo and aquarium professionals from around the globe will visit Zoo Atlanta today for Zoo Day and see their commitment to excellence firsthand.”
A Rigorous Process
AZA accreditation is widely regarded as the gold standard for zoos and aquariums worldwide.
The process is thorough and demanding: institutions must submit a detailed application, followed by a multi-day on-site inspection conducted by an independent team of zoological professionals.
Inspectors evaluate every facet of operations, including:
- Animal care and wellbeing
- Veterinary care
- Staff training
- Educational programs
- Conservation efforts
- Financial stability
- Risk management
- Governance
- Guest services
Following the inspection, detailed reports from both the inspection team and the facility are reviewed by the Accreditation Commission.
The Commission then conducts formal interviews with the facility’s top officials before rendering a decision: full accreditation, provisional accreditation for one year, or denial.
Accredited facilities must repeat this rigorous process every five years to maintain membership in the AZA.0
Zoo Atlanta’s Commitment
“Zoo Atlanta is honored to be granted AZA accreditation for another five years and to be part of the extraordinary international network that is AZA,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “As mirrored in the principles of AZA, Zoo Atlanta works tirelessly and daily to ensure superior professional animal care and wellbeing; education programs that reach students and families not just here in Georgia but far beyond the Zoo; and partnership in conservation programs making a difference for wildlife and their habitats worldwide.”
Currently, there are 240 AZA-accredited institutions and 14 AZA-accredited related facilities across 12 countries.
Zoo Atlanta joins this select group in upholding excellence that benefits animals, visitors, and global conservation efforts.
About Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta is dedicated to saving wildlife and their habitats through conservation, research, education, and engaging visitor experiences. The zoo provides world-class care for its animals while offering transformative educational opportunities for guests of all ages.
For more information or to plan a visit, go to zooatlanta.org.
This reaccreditation underscores Zoo Atlanta’s position as a leader in modern zoological institutions, ensuring that its animals receive the best possible care while advancing education and conservation on a global scale.
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