Georgia NOW News for Wednesday April 15, 2026

North Georgia’s alpine town of Helen draws millions each year, but when the Oktoberfest crowds fade, it’s the locals who keep the town alive. Residents step in during the slower months to support small businesses, carrying forward a long-standing spirit of resilience that has defined the community for decades. Meanwhile, new data shows the cost of living in Georgia is climbing fast. At the same time, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport continues to dominate globally, once again ranking as the world’s busiest airport after serving more than 106 million passengers in 2025. Economic development is also in focus, as Prime Inc. plans a major expansion in Spaulding County—bringing new jobs and a significant investment to the region. And in energy, a growing push for “plug-in solar” could make renewable power more accessible, especially for renters. While the technology is gaining traction in places like California and Europe, efforts to expand it in Georgia have stalled amid policy hurdles and debate over safety and utility impacts. 🎧 Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at georgianow.com — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Georgia NOW News wherever you get your podcasts. #GeorgiaNews #HelenGA #CostOfLiving #AtlantaAirport #CleanEnergy #SolarPower