Atlanta Forward: Regional economy

Today’s moderator: Rick Badie

Rick Badie joined The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as an education reporter in 1997. A South Georgia native, he’s covered the region’s immigrant communities, was a feature obituary writer and opinion columnist for the AJC’s Gwinnett edition.

Atlanta may not be a super city, but it has been ranked as a desirable "second-tier" city by a real estate services firm that monitors international real estate investment. Today, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed touts the importance of global economic engagement, while a financial executive says the region is being "rediscovered" by international investors. Finally, readers comment on the Atlanta Forward blog regarding legalization of medicinal marijuana.

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Today's columnists:

Global engagement boosts city's standing by Kasim Reed
Real estate investors rediscover ATL by Faron Thompson
Response to recent conversation from our readers

About the Author

Rick Badie

Metro Atlantans sour on housing affordability, pessimism is growing, poll says

The economy ranked as the top issue facing metro Atlanta last year, supplanting crime for the number one spot. This is the first year housing affordability has been an option.

DeKalb schools superintendent pleads not guilty to federal charges

Devon Horton has resigned from his role as DeKalb County superintendent, He has pleaded not guilty to federal charges stemming from his previous job in Illinois.

See video police say shows ex-PSC candidate Durand take Georgia Power secrets

Patty Durand has long criticized Georgia Power for concealing information under the cloak of trade secret about various initiatives and requests of state regulators.