• ASU vs. Howard Bison

    MEAC/SWAC Challenge Final — Alabama State 23, Howard 13

    2 Min Read

    Alabama State Hornets took down the Howard Bison, 23-13 Saturday night in a game that ran an incredible 6 hours due to multiple rain delays.

    This year’s MEAC/SWAC Challenge started at 7:38PM and ending at 1:18AM, due to three weather delays totaling two hours.

    Alabama State Beats Howard In 2022 MEAC/SWAC Challenge

    Alabama State ushered in first-year head coach Eddie Robinson’s Jr.’s tenure with a convincing win in front of 21,088 fans at Center Parc Stadium just south of downtown Atlanta.

    The contest was called over with 2:12 remaining in the fourth quarter due to continued lightning on the horizon.

    The Hornets made their third appearance in the annual event, earned their first win in the game and
    snapped a two game MEAC win streak dating back to 2018. More importantly, they inched the SWAC
    closer to their HBCU conference foe, who before this game held a commanding 11-4 overall lead in the
    series.

    MEAC/SWAC Challenge SWAC MVP Damatrius Davis, led the Hornets attack with 224 yards of total
    offense (187 passing 1TD, 1INT, 37 rushing) going an efficient 17-24 and spreading the ball around to
    eight different Hornets receivers.

    The Bison, making their first ever appearance in the game, were led defensively by linebacker Jevin
    Jackson (MEAC MVP) who totaled six total tackles (one for loss), a blocked punt and a recovery. While
    the MEAC representative from Washington, DC were able to force three turnovers, they were not able
    to capitalize on any of those Hornets mistakes with points, which proved to be the difference in the
    game.

    Here are some game highlights:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAbPypgaCqA

     

    Stay up to date with more Atlanta Sports events with AtlantaFi.com.

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  • A Jazzman's Blues Trailer

    Tyler Perry’s A Jazzman’s Blues Releases Trailer

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta-based movie mogul Tyler Perry has released the trailer for his new film A Jazzman’s Blues. The movie will stream on Netflix in the coming weeks.

    Production of the film has been a long time coming for Perry, who has had the project in mind for he better part of three decades.

    “I wrote this 27 years ago, and I finally get to show it to the world,” he posted on social media recently. “This is my new movie, A Jazzman’s Blues.”

    When Is A Jazzman’s Blues Streaming On Netflix?

    A Jazzman’s Blues is coming to Netflix on Friday, September 23, 2022.

    erry said it has taken almost 30 years for the story to be told.

    “I wrote it in 1995. It was the first screenplay I ever wrote,” he recently told People Magazine. “The two characters are just trying to find their own way in the world. Initially, I wanted to play the lead role of Bayou, but that was 1995 — I aged out.”

    Watch The Trailer For A Jazzman’s Blues

    Perry On Actors Who Turned Down His Roles

    Perry said that some of the actors he originally wanted for the project didn’t have enough faith in him.

    “Unfortunately with this film, I went to a bunch of up-and-coming young artists who were getting a lot of attention and I asked them about doing the role. They read the script, they loved the script, but I think there was a reservation or hesitation about working with me in particular on this film, because I guess they didn’t know how it would turn out,” he told People.

    Cast Members: Who Stars In A Jazzman’s Blues?

    The Jazzman’s Blues has an all-star cast featuring the following actors:

    • Brad Benedict
    • Ryan Eggold
    • Amirah Vann
    • Lana Young
    • Austin Scott
    • Milauna Jemai Jackson
    • Kario Marcel
    • Brent Antonello
    • Joshua Boone
    • Solea Pfeiffer
    • Rod Wood
    If that’s not enough star power, Terence Blanchard is involved in the music for the film and there’s choreography by Debbie Allen.

    What is A Jazzman’s Blues About?

    While not a lot is known about the plot, a summary of the film released by Netflix says it’s about “a sweeping tale of forbidden love.”
     
    Perry told People that the plot of A Jazzman’s Blues came to him when he was in a very vulnerable state as a creator.
     

    “I was in Atlanta struggling to make it. I was hungry, sleeping on my cousin’s couch, eventually getting put out and being homeless. I was trying to get my first play off the ground, and this screenplay just poured out of me,” Perry is quoted as saying. “I held onto it for all of these years.”

    Final Word
     
    Perry’s project continues Netflix’s close relationship with Atlanta. Here are some other Netflix movies that have filmed in Atlanta.
     
     
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  • Bronze Lens Film Festival 2022

    BronzeLens Film Festival 2022: What To Know Before You Go

    3 Min Read

    The 2022 BronzeLens Film Festival is taking place this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia. The multi-day event continues to highlight actors, producers as well as films, shorts and documentaries from people of color.

    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 2022 Film Festival takes place August 23-28, 2022 in Atlanta.  Here are some of the top events you can expect to experience:

    • Film Selections
    • Movie Screenings
    • Workshops
    • Networking Opportunities

    Opening night featured the film Dione Warwick: Don’t Make Me Over at Atlantic Station.

    Here are some event highlights from the BronzeLens Film Festival schedule:

    Wednesday, August 24

    • Incarceration Nation: Documentary screening and discussion — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Short Doc 3 — Black Lives Matter, social justice and more — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Jazz Night Screenings — Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

    Thursday, August 25

    • Powerhouse Workshop — Art of the Pitch — The Starling Atlanta Midtown
    • Shorts Block 4 — Relationships, mental health, social justice — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Powerhouse Presentation: Intimacy Coordination for Film/TV — The Starling Atlanta Midtown

    Friday, August 26

    • Web Series 2/Short Docs 5 — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Two Classes of 1968: Documentary — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Powerhouse Workshop: Unreal Engine & Visual Storytelling — The Starling Atlanta Midtown
    • Film Screening: Unthinkably Good Things, directed by Terri J. Vaughn

    Saturday, August 27

    • Powerhouse Workshop: Media Licensing & Fair Use — The Starling Atlanta Midtown
    • Nominated Films 3: Let the Church Say Amen — IPIC Theatre at Colony Square
    • Powerhouse Conversations: Productions in the Heart of the Peach — 
    • The Starling Atlanta Midtown

    Sunday, August 28

    • Sunday Brunch With the Brothers — Monday Night Brewing
    • Cinema & Social Justice Sunday: The Mahalia Jackson Story — Landmark Midtown Art Cinema
    • 13th Annual BronzeLens Awards Show — The Cecil B. Day Chapel at The Carter Center
    • BronzeLens After Party — The Starling Lobby

    See the full events schedule.

    Last Word

    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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  • best whiskey bars in Atlanta

    Best Whiskey Bars In Atlanta

    4 Min Read

    Whiskey is one of those acquired tastes that takes time to develop and appreciate. When it comes to Atlanta’s bars, premium whiskey is on the menu at quite a few of them.

    This article will tell you where to go in Atlanta for the best drinks containing whiskey.

    These Bars Have The Best Whiskey In Atlanta

    Let’s look at some of the best bars in Atlanta with premium whiskey.

    Red Phone Booth

    17 Andrew Young International Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 254-3139

    Red Phone Booth has the best whiskey in Atlanta

    Red Phone Booth is a speakeasy that never fails to satisfy. Here’s what one reviewer said about the place. “Once you obtain the secret number to enter and you make your way inside from the Red Phone Booth you will immediately notice the subtle dim lighting, leather couches, wood finishes, and a very extensive whiskey selection. From there you will shortly figure out that this will be added to your list of favorite bars. We lucked out and found two seats at the bar where Jason quickly greeted us and recommended the Smoked Old Fashion. This was the best Old Fashion I had to date. I was originally going to stick with the Old Fashion but quickly found out that the bartenders also give great recommendations for whiskey. I went with the Hibiki as it is hard to find at local bars in my area. Based on this Jason provided several whiskey/bourbon recommendations. We met Scott the Manager who was very attentive and shown us other whiskeys in their collection and background of different bottles. I couldn’t recommend this place more for craft cocktails, cigars, or whiskey. We will be returning!”

    Porter Beer Bar

    1156 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 549-7132

    The Porter Bar has the best whiskey in Atlanta

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the Porter Beer Bar: “Love the vibe in here and the beer selection. The whiskey selection is also great.”

    Edgar’s Proof & Provisions

     Inside Georgian Terrace Hotel: 659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 897-5045

    Edgar's Proof & Provisions has the best whiskey in Atlanta

    Here’s what one customer says about Edgar’s Proof & Provisions: “Tried this place for first time. Ordered old fashioned, chicken n waffles, french onion soup, and grilled cheese. Bartender and waitress were good. Bartender very knowledgeable on bourbons. Drink was good as well as soup and grilled cheese.”

    Dirty Rascal

    415 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 |  (470) 600-3500

    Dirty Rascal restaurant opens in Buckhead
     Photo credit: Thompson Buckhead

    Dirty Rascal is an awesome old-school Italian-American restaurant from Chef Todd Ginsberg. It opened in the new the Thompson Buckhead hotel.

    For cocktails, try the Necroni Old Fashioned, with monkey whiskey, green walnut and bitters 16. And the Clover Club features monkey 47 gin, lemon, raspberry and lo-fi amaro. Check it out this weekend! 

    Whiskey Mistress

    3161 Maple Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 884-3684

    Whiskey Mistress has the best drinks in Atlanta

    Here’s what one visitor said about Whiskey Mistress: “Visited the WM for a bday party. We were in the VIP section. It was a lot of fun. Great crowd. Great music bumping from the DJ. Decent drinks. Hookah available at this bar and cigars in the VIP section were permitted. Very nice and spacious with comfortable seating. You may run into local and or well known celebrities. Tight street parking available. Valet available.”

    Highland Cigar Co.

    245 North Highland Ave. NE STE 140, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 477-2415
    Highland Cigar Co. has the best whiskey bar in Atlanta
     
    Here’s what one reviewer says about Highland Cigar Co. “Great selection of cigars, Scotch, and Irish Whiskey. The Bourbon selection isn’t any more limited and it’s all top notch. After 8 pm can get a bit busy, and it can be tough to find a chair or sofa but there’s always been enough room at the bar or the patio. Super chill hangout and a great last stop on your of bar hopping in Decatur.”

    What Are The Different Types Of Whiskey?

    There are several types of whiskey that you can enjoy: Rye, Japanese Whiskey, Bourbon (Tennessee Whiskey), etc.

    More Food Coverage:

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  • Jermaine Dupri, Diddy Agree To Battle ‘Hit For Hit’ Battle In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    The Verzuz that’s not a Verzuz is finally happening: Diddy & Jermaine Dupri have agreed to face off in a musical battle in Atlanta, Georgia. The competition will be “hit for hit,” as they say.

    On a recent IG Live, Diddy finally agreed to give the people — and Dupri, affectionately known as JD, want they want.

    “JD, if you want that smoke, you can get that smoke anytime,” he said. “Since we ain’t f– around with Verzuz no more because they’re [Triller] f– around with our boys,” Diddy expressed. We don’t need to be going against each other.”

    Triller and the Verzuz platform created by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland have been involved in legal negotiations over a sum of $28 million not being paid.

    It’s been a long time coming for Dupri, who first called out Diddy in September 2021 over social media.

    How It Started: Diddy Vs. Jermaine Dupri

    In April 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 lockdown, Verzuz had just kicked off and artists were feeling creative about facing off against each other.

    Diddy mentioned off the cuff that he would showcase his hits against Dr. Dre and Jermaine Dupri. While Dr. Dre didn’t respond, JD immediately did.

    “Let’s give ’em what they want then,” JD said.

    Shortly after the Fat Joe vs. Ja Rule Verzuz, which Ja Rule won, Dupri was feeling kind of good about his chances going up against the Bad Boy founder and impresario.

    “Somebody let @Diddy know I’m @thegarden right now ! And he gon need some training for me,” JD tweeted.

    Jermaine Dupri calls out Diddy

    Diddy didn’t take long to respond, tweeting back at JD, telling: “Beloved you my nigga but your arms too short to box with God!!! You aiint got enough hits. I’ll smash you with just biggie n Mary . But I do have the upmost respect on you as a musical legend – Dre the only one can get in the ring w me . – LOVE.”

    Diddy responds to Jermaine Dupri

    JD told him that it wouldn’t take “nothing but a little straightening” in the words of local Atlanta group Migos, but by then the internet was all in.

    Atlanta rapper T.I. also had something to say, warning Diddy and other rappers that the ATL was a music powerhouse and to tread lightly.

    Then, Fat Joe and Snoop Dogg were able to get both JD and Diddy on Live to talk about who would win if the two had an epic Verzuz battle. While JD was building himself up for the potential battle, Diddy deflected, saying that he really saw his peer as Dr. Dre, which is a super-producer. Not JD, a true songwriter.

    But that wasn’t the end of it. On a live radio show, JD upped the ante by continuing to egg on Diddy and listing his extensive musical accomplishments.

    “When it comes to songwriting, I’m in the songwriting hall of fame,” JD said on air.

     

     

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • MEAC/SWAC Challenge 2022

    MEAC / SWAC Challenge 2022: Dates, Game Info

    2 Min Read

    The official start of football season is here. The 2022 MEAC/SWAC Challenge comes to Atlanta’s Center Parc Credit Union Stadium on Saturday, August 27, 2022. The game will feature the Alabama State University Hornets vs. The Howard University Bison.

    The MEAC/SWAC Challenge has been an Atlanta tradition for a number of years now.

    2022 MEAC/SWAC Challenge: Everything You Need To Know

    The annual game features teams from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Launched on Labor Day Weekend in 2005, the HBCU matchup was held for its first three years at historic Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala.

    In 2008, the game moved to Citrus Bowl Stadium in Orlando, Fla. Since 2016, the Challenge has been played at campus sites.

    Get tickets here

    How Can I Watch The 2022 MEAC/SWAC Challenge?

    The game will be televised live in primetime on ESPN the time is 7:00 PM ET.

    About Alabama State University 

    Alabama State University is a historically black university located in Montgomery, Alabama. The school was founded in 1867 and has been a steady producer of academic talent coming out of Alabama.

    ASU proudly boasts more than 6,000 students. Besides football, the school’s athletics department features baseball, basketball, golf, tennis, track and cheerleading, along with women’s intercollegiate basketball, soccer, softball, bowling, tennis, track, volleyball, golf and cheerleading.

    The school’s marching band, the Mighty Marching Hornets, frequently competes the various Battle of the Bands.

    About Howard University

    Howard University is perhaps the most recognizable HBCU in America. The Washington, D.C.-based research university features a who’s who of alumni, from Vice President Kamala Harris to Toni Morrison, Thurgood Marshall, Andrew Young and many others.

    What To See And Do While You’re In Town

    If you’re looking for some fun things to do and see while in Atlanta. Take a look at our Guide To Atlanta.

    Here are the best black-owned restaurants to try in the city.

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  • Knife Modern Mediterranean opens in Atlanta

    Now Serving Atlanta: Knife Modern Mediterranean

    1 Min Read

    Buckhead has a new eatery that is making waves in Atlanta’s culinary scene. Knife Modern Mediterranean opened its doors in early August 2022.

    The restaurant is helmed by chef Metin Ertürk. Ali Ebrahimi is general manager of the place.

    What’s On the Menu At Knife Modern Mediterranean?

    Knife is a neighborhood restaurant concept that specializes in Mediterranean fare.

    The eatery’s Instagram shows some delicious images of Chicken Croquettes, Turkish Katmer with ice cream,  bone in ribeye and more!

    Where Is Knife Modern Mediterranean Located?

    Knife is located at 3162 Piedmont Road NE in Buckhead. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Last Word

    Knife isn’t the only delicious destination in Buckhead. Here are some great Buckhead restaurants you should try.

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Taste Urban Atlanta at The Foundry at Puritan Mill

    Taste Urban Atlanta: Times, Dates, Info

    2 Min Read

    The next Taste Urban Atlanta is happening August 24, 2022 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. The event will showcase food-based businesses that are black owned.

    More than 30 Black-owned companies will feature offering food and drink. Tickets start at $20.

    When Is Taste Urban Atlanta?

    Taste Urban Atlanta is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 24, 2022.

    Taste Urban Atlanta Exhibitors

    • Her Wine
    • Ma Dukes’ Kitchen
    • Traveling Tastez
    • My Grandma’s Kitchen
    • All Things Pastable & More
    • Soul Pit
    • Mississippi Chubb BBQ and more

    How To Buy Tickets

    Buy tickets to Taste Urban here.

    Where Is Taste Urban Atlanta Being Held?

    Taste Urban Atlanta is being held at the Foundry at Puritan Mill, 916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 in Atlanta’s popular Westside. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Last Word

    Along with Taste Urban Atlanta, Georgia’s largest city is a beacon for the very best black restaurants in the Southeast.

    Looking to grab a bite below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

    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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  • Day and Night Cereal Bar opens in Atlanta

    Day & Night Cereal Bar To Open In Atlantic Station

    2 Min Read

    Who doesn’t like cereal at any time of the day? Day & Night Cereal Bar are opening in Midtown Atlanta’s Atlantic Station, AtlantaFi.com has learned.

    The eatery specializes in cereal-based treats, offering those who love a morning crunch an opportunity to double down on exotic, delicious bowls of cereals and shakes, including those with an international flavor.

    Day & Night Cereal Bar Opening In Atlanta

    Atlanta’s Day & Night Cereal Bar comes from franchise owner Rhonda Jones and her children, Ty’Ron and Tyra, who will bring the establishment’s first location to Georgia.

    The concept first opened in Los Angeles as a food truck. But as these things go, people couldn’t get enough of the concept, so it expanded with a brick-and-mortar location in Greenwood, Indiana.

    What’s On The Menu At Day & Night Cereal Bar?

    Day & Night Cereal in Atlanta

    Day & Night Cereal Bar will feature customizable, build-your-own cereal bowls and a variety of milkshakes, according to a press release.

    Flavors that customers will surely love include Mucha Lucha, a concoction of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, whipped cream and churro cereal topped with a sprinkled cinnamon roll; or Unicorn Breath, a mix of fruity Lucky Charms and Fruity Pebbles cereal, topped with whipped cream and a strawberry drizzle.

    Each bowl has the option to include whole, skim, almond or oat milk. The eatery’s menu also will have bacon flights with the choice of three different flavors, French toast coated in cereal, cereal-infused milkshakes and classic coffee drinks. 

    When Will Day & Night Cereal Bar Be Open?

    Day & Night Cereal Bar’s operating hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    For now, Day & Night Cereal Bar operates in the following cities:

    • Los Angeles
    • Charlotte
    • Cleveland
    • Clarksburg, MD
    • Washington, D.C.
    • Atlanta (Soon)

    Final Word

    Day & Night is not the only place you can get a sweet treat around Atlanta. Check out these local donut shops.

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Capital Tacos opens in Atlanta

    Now Serving Atlanta: Capital Tacos

    2 Min Read

    There’s a new taco joint in town and it’s a good one: Capital Tacos is offering pickup and delivery orders in Atlanta.

    The eatery specializes in a Tex-Mex cuisine, which they take seriously.

    Here is what it says on the restaurant’s website: “Every item on our menu is made from scratch and grilled up to order. From starters to munch while you wait, to award-winning flavor profiles and inventive meals that simply don’t follow the rules.”

    Capital Tacos Opens In Atlanta

    Launched in Land-O-Lakes, Florida, Capital Tacos has taken its time with expansion plans. After the pandemic subsided, the eatery figured the time was right.

    “Our goal was always to get the company to a point where we can get the Capital to as many people around the region, the state and the country as possible,” co-owner Josh Luger told the Tampa Bay Times. “We’ve had, not exaggerating, literally hundreds of requests for stores and franchises across the state and country from folks who visit the store or know us over the years.”

    Now it’s Atlanta’s turn to experience food on a “Capital” level.

    What’s On The Menu At Capital Tacos?

    The menu at Capital Tacos consists of several modern hits on some Tex-Mex favorites.

    Starters

    • Mexican Street Corn
    • Capital Fries & Dipping Sauce
    • Chips & Salsa/Queso
    • Queso Bites & Dipping Sauce

    Rule  Breakers (Entrees)

    • Monster Quesadillas
    • Crazy Fries
    • Epic Nachos
    • Tacos, Burritos & More

    You’ll also love the Big Kahuna taco, which consists of battered fried fish, jack & cheddar, corn salsa, carolina gold, cilantro, dirty spice, and a lime wedge.

    Where Is Capital Tacos Located?

    Capital Tacos is located at 800 Forrest St NW Atlanta, GA 30318. Here is a map to help you find it.

    Capital Taco’s phone number is (470) 816-3784.

    So when are you going to visit Capital Tacos? Put it on your list of best Atlanta taco places.

    Final Word

    Tex-Mex food, Mexican and Taco Tuesday. Atlanta does all of them well.

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