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Amid unconfirmed reports of at least two people killed in Northern Florida due to weather-related injuries, Tropical Storm Idalia ripped through Georgia and onto South Carolina late Wednesday.
In its wake, the storm left tens of thousands of homes without power.
Hurricane Idalia has moved into Georgia as a Category 3 storm about midday on Wednesday. As Florida officials continue to assess the situation, hurricane-force winds batter the Gulf area and have now crossed state lines, which means intense winds and storm surge is still happening along the Southern East Coast.
Idalia hit Florida early this morning as a Category 3 storm. The projected path of the weather event will take it into the Big Bend communities and then into South Georgia.
Footage from news cameras already show homes underwater and rooftops being ripped off due to strong wind gusts. Authorities are urging people to shelter in place.
Speaking to news media, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said the city is on high alert due to extensive flooding along waterfront land.
“We expect that ‘King’ High Tide around noon to 1 p.m., and that’s going to bring in several additional feet of water. The flooding that we’re experiencing now is nothing compared to what we’re experiencing now.”
Where Did Idalia Make Landfall?
Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach, Florida, around 7:45 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023.
Landfall is expected to present some significant problems for Florida’s coastal regions as well as certain cities and town inland as storm surge could be as high as 16 feet, according to weather reports. If you’re in its way, you should take safety precautions.
Georgia Officials On Alert
Georgia and the Carolinas are both expected to get a lot of rain and strong wind gusts, which is sure to cause major flooding in many communities.
How To Stay Safe During A Hurricane
When it comes to a hurricane or any big storm, there are some practical things you can do to stay safe and protect you and yours.
Wait for the All-Clear
Stay indoors until authorities declare it safe to go outside. Be cautious of downed power lines and other hazards.
Seek shelter in a sturdy building and stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. Stay on the lower floors of multi-story buildings to avoid wind exposure.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid as necessary and seek medical attention if needed.
Avoid Flooded Areas
Stay away from flooded roads, bridges, and buildings. Floodwaters can hide dangers like debris and downed power lines.
High winds can shatter glass and cause debris to fly, posing significant dangers.
Keep enough bottled water on hand for drinking, as tap water might become contaminated.
Inspect Your Home
Check for damage to your home, but avoid entering if it’s not safe. If you suspect structural damage, contact authorities.
Avoid using candles or open flames, as they can lead to fires if gas lines are damaged.
Communicate
Let friends and family know you’re safe. Use social media or text messages to conserve phone battery.
Continuously monitor weather updates and forecasts from reliable sources. Listen to local authorities and follow their instructions and evacuation orders.
Fully charge cell phones and other essential electronic devices in case of power outages.
Assess Food and Water
Assess your food and water supply. If in doubt, throw out perishable items that might have spoiled during power outages.
Flying debris is one of the most dangerous aspects of a hurricane. Secure outdoor furniture and items that could become projectiles.
Final Word
Remember, preparation is key to staying safe during a hurricane season. By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and your loved ones during this challenging weather event.
If flooding occurs, get out of the basement or lowest level of your home and take refuge on higher ground.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Comedian Dave Chappelle is returning to Atlanta, Georgia this fall to perform one night on his comedy tour.
Chappelle’s Pilot Boy Productions has announced that his documentary tour includes a stop in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena. Here’s how to get tickets.
When Is Dave Chappelle Coming To Atlanta?
Chappelle is set to come to Atlanta on October 31 at State Farm Arena., 2023. His show in downtown Atlanta is being recorded as part of his documentary, which is likely to stream on Netflix.
Event:
Dave Chappelle’s ‘Untitled’ Documentary Show
Date and Time:
October 31, 2023, 7 p.m. ET
Chappelle’s tour has added some additional stops as it grows in popularity. So far he’s added the following dates:
Oct. 17: Milwaukee, WI — Fiserv Forum
Oct. 19: Boston, MA — TD Garden
Oct. 25: Raleigh, NC — PNC Arena
Oct 26: Charlotte, NC — Spectrum Center
Oct 31: Atlanta, GA — State Farm Arena
This is a cell phone-free event, according to organizers. This means if you need to use your phone, you’ll need to return to the distribution tent at the entrance. Anyone caught using a cell phone during the show will be immediately ejected.
What To Know Before You Go
State Farm Arena has a strict bag policy for all events held there.
Please note that bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″, including briefcases, purses, luggage, and diaper bags, are not allowed in the arena. Additionally, backpacks and hard-sided bags of any kind are prohibited. However, you are welcome to bring in single-compartment drawstring bags and fashion backpacks or purses that are smaller than 14″ x 14″ x 6″.
Final Word
The comedian is riding a wave of controversy after the release of his latest Netflix special The Closer, in which he takes on the trans community among other topics.
The special has caused a firestorm at Netflix, where trans employees and those who support them have threatened a walkout if the production isn’t pulled.
Chappelle, for his part, has decided to stand his ground. In a short video he released on Instagram, the comedian said that he “will not be summoned” by the trans community. He also had some conditions for a proper sit down.
“To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience,” he said. “But you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybody’s demands.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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As the nice weather facilitates more people out on the water, the deaths continue for Lake Lanier. Georgia officials confirm that an Atlanta man died while swimming in Lake Lanier over the weekend.
Edgar Steven Cruz Martinez, 23, visited the lake on Saturday, August 26, 2023 and went under the water for a swim. About 3 p.m. that day, first responders with the Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services and the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office arrived after receiving a call about a possible drowning at Lake Lanier.
When they arrived, observers said that Martinez never resurfaced after going for a swim. Officials found his body in about 10 feet of water.
Martinez is the seventh person to drown in Lake Lanier this year.
Why Do So Many People Drown In Lake Lanier?
One of the reasons Lake Lanier has so many fatalities year in and year out is that people fail to follow safe boating practices, according to safety officials. Boating under the influence continues to be an issue on the man-made lake. People boating without safety vests on also has been frequently observed.
There are also some curious incidents that have occurred on the lake that have raised questions about its past. Read our Untold History of Lake Lanier.
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Atlanta, Georgia has some of the coolest jazz brunches In Atlanta. If you didn’t know, brunch is a big thing here.
Let’s take a culinary tour of some of the best venues for a great brunch accompanied by live performances.
Here Are The Best Jazz Brunches In Atlanta
Visitors to The Battery Atlanta can enjoy a jazz brunch on Saturdays and Sundays (hours may vary) for C. Ellet’s Jazz Brunch, offering delicious bites with soothing beats every weekend in November. Guests can enjoy a live jazz duo as they dine on classic brunch plates like steak and eggs benedict, fried chicken and more.
Venkman’s
740 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Here’s what one visitor says about Venkman’s. “Amazing brunch flood. We were all impressed with our food. Live jazz band and bottomless Mimosas. Amazing!”
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint
200 Peachtree St L05, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 230-5853
Here’s what one customer says about Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint. “Great food and ambience. The live jazz was good. After 7pm you will pay a $5 entertainment charge.”
Copeland’s Of New Orleans
3101 Cobb Pkwy SE #220, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (770) 612-3311
Here’s what one diner says about Copeland’s. “The Sunday Jazz brunch is awesome! Mimosas are reasonably priced and a plethora of breakfast and lunch options on the buffet seasoned just right. Definitely recommend.”
St. James Live
3220 Butner Rd #240, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 254-3561
Here’s what one customer says about St. James Live. “I didn’t partake of much since I was mainly there for the Jazz Brunch w/Tabitha King, but I love the ambiance. I will return for more later.”
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
1133 Huff Rd NW D, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 350-5500
Here’s what one customer says about Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours. “OMG, this place is 100%! Came on a Sunday for the jazz & the all -u-can eat brunch & enjoyed it all. The entire buffet was delish, but them grits … !”
C. Ellet’s Jazz Brunch At The Battery Atlanta
Visitors to The Battery Atlanta’s can enjoy a great food and live music on Saturdays and Sundays (hours may vary) at C. Ellet’s Jazz Brunch, which is run by husband and wife duo Chef Linton and Gina Hopkins. The restaurant offers delicious bites with soothing beats every weekend in November. Guests can enjoy a live jazz duo as they dine on classic brunch plates like steak and eggs benedict, fried chicken and more.
The Velvet Note
4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, Ga. | 855) 583-5838
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Velvet Note. “I had a great time there last night. The live jazz band was great! The space is very cozy. Its a nice date spot. They use plastic utensils and plates which were nice. The shrimp and grits were really good! Definitely worth the money. The alcoholic beverages were very good too! I was impressed with the food, drinks and entertainment.”
Final Word
What could be better than live music and a smorgasbord of all the best foods?
Live music is one of the Atlanta dining scene’s strong points. If you love some tunes playing in the room, check out the best live music venues in the city.
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NaanStop, the fast-food Indian joint, is giving its customers a huge bargain on its delicious meals — all for $1 in Atlanta. Do you want to know what’s the deal? Keep reading.
The highly anticipated event of the year for NaanStop has returned: Customer Appreciation Day is scheduled for Tuesday, August 29, 2023.
In a gesture of gratitude towards its dedicated patrons and delectable cuisine enthusiasts, the Idnani brothers and owners, Neal and Samir, extend a warm invitation to join them for $1 entrées.
To partake in this offer, a side dish and a beverage must also be purchased. The festivities of Customer Appreciation Day will take place across all three NaanStop locations — Atlantic Station, Buckhead, and Downtown. It’s important to note that the promotion is exclusively available for in-store visitors.
Where Is NaanStop Located In Atlanta?
- xxx
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- 64 Broad St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
- 265 18th St NW #4110, Atlanta, GA 30363
Final Bite
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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The Bronzelens Film Festival has arrived in Atlanta, Georgia, for its annual celebration of black visual creators. Among them is filmmaker Eternal Polk and his film, Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land.
The full-feature documentary was created with the help of longtime morning news journalist Al Roker and his Al Roker Entertainment production company, which teamed with farming-equipment manufacturer Deere & Co., to bring the tale of black farmers to the screen.
Among the topics discussed in the film are:
- Increasingly low numbers of black farmers and dwindling farmland.
- The legal entanglements created by “heirs property.”
- Causes and solutions to leveling the playing field when it comes to land ownership.
The film was underwritten by John Deere’s LEAP (Legislation, Education, Advocacy and Production Systems) program, which was formed by the company alongside the National Black Growers Council (NBGC) and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF).
AtlantaFi.com caught up filmmaker Eternal Polk and asked him about the issues that the film explores.
What Is The Film Gaining Ground About?
“It’s important for audiences for understand the history. We’re in a moment when our history is attempted to be aggressively erased. We cover the history of how we actually acquired land, how that land was lost by various means and then we focus on the leading culprit of that — which is heirs property — but we also talk about the solutions and the people in the trenches, in the field and those helping landowners to keep their land.”
Gaining Ground director Eternal Polk / AtlantaFi.com
Why Is Black Landownership So Important Right Now?
“When you look at farmland and landownership historically, initially it was a foundation for us to be able to vote. And on a level of providing a place to stay and having a safe place for your home and family, not to mention all the effort we’ve put into building this country, I think it’s only right that land is something that we address and have a conversation about.”
“Although there is a very strong conversation right now around reparations, I noticed that there has not been a very strong conversation about landownership for black folks or organizations taking the lead,” he said. “I think that’s why the LEAP Coalition program by John Deere is so important; because they identify something sustainable and it has generational impact and will close the wealth gap.”
We also spoke to Tharlyn Fox, LEAP manager for John Deere & Co., about the inequities that exist when it comes to landownership and how heirs property plays a major role in that.
Deere & Co. LEAP Manager Tharlyn Fox / AtlantaFi.com
“LEAP’s mission is to increase and improve the livelihood of black farmers, landowners and families as it relates to heirs property. Our overarching mission is to help them clear title to their land — not that it’s a singular issue for black farmers, but it is a big issue when it comes to black families and farmers. We do realize that that is the key to generational wealth and to helping them clear title to their land.”
Is Heirs Property Good Or Bad?
Fox says she wouldn’t necessarily say it’s a bad thing. “It’s a very fragile way of ownershhip for a family to have heirs property. If you have it, you cannot secure collateral for a loan because everyone who is an heir owns this property. So just imagine, if there’s a catastrophic incident like in Maui, or Katrina, it makes it very hard to take advantage of any government incentive programs supplied by FEMA and other agencies, because you then have to prove that you are entitled to this property.”
“It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but you want to make sure that you have clear title to the land because you want to make sure that you’re prosperous and productive with the land so that they can then buy equipment, they can lease it if they want, and ultimately pass this on to the next generation.”
Final Word
Learn more about Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land.
The Bronzelens Film Festival continues through this weekend in Atlanta. Don’t miss it!
Read more great content from AtlantaFi.com like our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.
We also have special coverage of Black Farmers In Atlanta as well as How To Keto In Atlanta.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Move over Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane’s, the boneless Southern fried chicken empire, is expanding across metro Atlanta with the recent opening of its third location in the Peach State.
On Tuesday, August 22, 2023, Raising Cane’s opened in Buford near the Mall of Georgia. The new location has a garage door which the restaurant plans to use on sunny days, according to a press release.
Raising Cane’s Opens In Buford
The fast-food restaurant’s hours are:
How Many Raising Cane’s Are In Georgia?
Georgia has three Raising Cane’s locations so far. They are located at:
- Dacula: 3485 Braselton Hwy, Dacula, GA 30019 | (770) 871-2147
- Athens: 795 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30605 | (706) 548-2008
- Buford: 3300 Buford Dr, Buford, GA 30519 | (770) 871-2171
The eatery, which has close to 740 restaurants across 36 states, is continuing its expansion. Raising Cane’s, which began in Baton Rouge near Louisiana State University.
Cane’s is a focused concept known for its Chicken Finger meals – complete with crispy crinkle-cut fries, homemade Cane’s sauce, Cane’s toast and coleslaw.
Where Is Raising Cane’s Located In Buford?
Raising Cane’s is located at 3300 Buford Drive across the street from the Mall of Georgia.
Along with those delicious chicken tenders, each Raising Cane’s location has as part of its decor, disco balls, a velvet Elvis painting and the Raising Cane’s mural on exposed brick.
Final Bite
Fried chicken is a delicacy here in the South, and it doesn’t have to be boneless. Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Atlanta is known for its vibrant and diverse bar scene, with numerous bars in some of the best neighborhoods offering unique atmospheres and experiences. Instead of going to one of the main bars in Atlanta’s most prominent corridors or on one of its rooftop bars, why not try one of the city’s neighborhood bars?
Here Are The Best Neighborhood Bars In Atlanta
Here are some popular neighborhood bars in Atlanta:
The Earl
488 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 522-3950
Situated in the East Atlanta Village, The Earl is a popular bar and music venue. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, a great selection of craft beers, cocktails, and live performances by local and touring bands.
Manuel’s Tavern
602 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 525-3447
A historic neighborhood bar in the Poncey-Highland area, Manuel’s Tavern has been a gathering place for locals since 1956. It features a cozy interior, a diverse menu, and a politically engaged atmosphere.
Neighbor’s Pub
752 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 872-5440
Located in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, Neighbor’s Pub is a laid-back sports bar with a friendly vibe. It offers a wide selection of beers, pub food, and screens to watch sports games.
The Albert
918 Austin Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 872-4990
Found in Inman Park, The Albert is a neighborhood bar with a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance. It offers an impressive cocktail menu, a curated selection of craft beers, and a cozy patio area.
Atkins Park Tavern
2840 Atlanta Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | (770) 435-1887
Serving the Virginia-Highland community since 1922, Atkins Park Tavern is one of Atlanta’s oldest continuously operating bars. It features a warm and inviting atmosphere, classic pub fare, and an extensive beer and whiskey selection.
Northside Tavern
1058 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 3031 | (404) 874-8745
Located in the Westside district, Northside Tavern is a renowned blues bar and Atlanta institution. It offers live blues music, a dive bar ambiance, and a friendly crowd.
Midtown Moon
1492 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | 404-343-6514
Situated in Ansley Mall, Midtown Moon is a popular spot for locals seeking a lively night out. It features a bar, space for a dance floor, live music, and a patio area.
Final Sip
Atlanta has several lively neighborhood bars known for their casual atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and pub grub. At the best spots, you’ll find trivia nights and live music events.
As you well know, the popularity and offerings of these neighborhood bars may change over time. It’s always a good idea to check their websites or call ahead to ensure they meet your preferences and are open when you plan to visit.
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The 2023 BronzeLens Film Festival is happening this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia. The multi-day event will feature more than 120 film screenings showcasing productions from 17 countries along with signature events and panels.
We’re going to break down everything you need to know about the BronzeLens Film Festival taking place in Atlanta.
BronzeLens Film Festival: What To Know
The BronzeLens 2023 Film Festival takes place Wednesday, August 23 to Sunday, August 27, 2022 in Atlanta. Here are some of the top events you can expect to experience:
- Film Selections
- Movie Screenings
- Workshops
- Networking Opportunities
- Women SuperStar Honors: On Saturday, August 26 at the historic Rialto Center for the Arts. The Women SuperStar Honors celebrates the accomplishments of women of color who work in the film and television industry in front of and behind the lens.
- This year’s honorees include Anika Noni Rose (The Princess and the Frog, Dream Girls) and KJ Smith (Tyler Perry’s Sistahs, Power Block III: Raising Kanan, The Family Business), and critically acclaimed director Neemah Barnette (All Rise, Raising Dion, Bosch, Being Mary Jane, Queen Sugar) is making a special guest appearance.
- On Sunday, August 27 BronzeLens salutes men of color in film and television for making a positive difference in the industry during Sunday Brunch with the Brothers. The guests will share lessons learned and participate in insightful conversations with the audience.
“Each year I am in awe of the depth and breadth of the film submissions BronzeLens receives. Creative storytelling be it fact or fiction is such a powerful means of touching the humanity in all who behold,” Deidre McDonald, BronzeLens Film Festival Artistic Director, said in a press release. “Our mission remains steeped in celebrating the art of filmmaking and providing networking opportunities for filmmakers, content creators, talent, and our attendees to connect and interact.”
Where Will the BronzeLens Film Festival Be Held?
The vast majority of events connected to the BronzeLens Film Festival will be held at Landmark Midtown Art Cinema, which is where the official film selections will take place.
The complete list of the 2023 film selections can be found at Official Film Selections.
Final Word
BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia, is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009, that is dedicated to bringing national and worldwide attention to Atlanta as a center for film and film production for people of color. Its mission is two-fold: to promote Atlanta as a film mecca for people of color, and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers.
With 900+ movie and TV projects produced here over the past decade, the Peach State film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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The conference gathers some of Atlanta’s top women entrepreneurs to discuss how to make it in the business world.
This year is the 10th Anniversary of the Glambitious Brand, created by Lillie Mae, to help women entrepreneurs thrive in their faith and finances.
Glambitious Atlanta Conference: What To Know
The conference will highlight the following marketing strategies:
- How to attract more clients.
- How to get business credit.
- How to grow social media followers.
- How to become a paid speaker.
- How to secure sponsorship dollars PLUS faith, mental health, wellness, and more.
Guests will enjoy interactive networking, photo installments, vendors, a live DJ, guest speakers, and power panels.
When Is The Glambitious Atlanta Conference?
TheGlambitious Atlanta 10th Anniversary Conference takes place on Saturday, August 26, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The location is only disclosed to ticketholders.
Established in July 2013, the Glambitious brand has hosted events virtually and in-person around the country in top destinations including Miami, New York, New Orleans, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and Philadelphia.
Past speakers at the event have included Grammy Award Winning Singer Chrisette Michele, Candance Holyfield, Chanita Foster, actress Africa Miranda, journalist Danielle Young, and author Dr. Cheryl Wood.
In addition to event experiences, the brand also offers courses, Ebooks, book publishing, photography, media, licensing and marketing services to help women creatives grow and monetize their brands.
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.
