• coronavirus: 5 things to know

    Coronavirus: 5 Things You Need To Know Right Now

    4 Min Read

    The coronavirus pandemic is a global health crisis that has affected mankind for nearly two years. With vaccinations underway, COVID-19 has created a new normal. But what does that mean specifically for you?

    There are some burning questions that you may need answers to and with information culled from various health sources, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, we’ve got them.

    Here’s what you need to know about coronavirus (COVID-19):

    In This Article:

    What Is Coronavirus?

    Coronavirus is the name of a group of viruses that include the common cold and other flu-like sicknesses.

    Coronaviruses are named based on the Spanish word for “crown” (corona), which alludes to the crown-like spikes that protrude from the virus as it appears under a microscope.

    The exact name of this coronavirus is “SARS-CoV-2”. The illness it causes is being called “Coronavirus 2019,” or COVID-19 for short.

    The Delta variant first emerged in India in December 2020 and quickly spread around the world.

    In November 2021, the Omicron variant was identified. Here are the symptoms.

    How Did Coronavirus Start?

    Chinese scientists discovered this novel coronavirus in December 2019, when cases began to be reported by Wuhan-area health clinics.

    It has now spread to more than 100 cities across the world, including the United States.

    On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak an international health emergency.

    On March 11, WHO declared it a pandemic.

    How Many Coronavirus Cases Are In The US?

    The cases of coronavirus continue to grow in the United States. Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers, according to the Johns Hopkins University online tracker,

    As of May 2020, every state has reported a coronavirus case, and many of them are seeing the numbers rise even as they re-opened their economies.

    How Long Does Coronavirus Last?

    As for how long does coronavirus last on surfaces? According to researchers at the National Institutes of Health, Princeton, and the University of California, Los Angeles, here’s what they say:

    “We found that viable virus 36 could be detected in aerosols up to 3 hours post aerosolization, up to 4 hours on copper, up to 24 hours on 37 cardboard and up to 2-3 days on plastic and stainless steel. HCoV-19 and SARS-CoV-1 exhibited similar 38 half-lives in aerosols, with median estimates around 2.7 hours. Both viruses show relatively long viability 39 on stainless steel and polypropylene compared to copper or cardboard: the median half-life estimate for 40 HCoV-19 is around 13 hours on steel and around 16 hours on polypropylene.”

    If You Think You’re Sick, Here’s What To Do 

    If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, the CDC says you may develop the following symptoms:

    •  Fever
    • cough
    • difficulty breathing

    If you experience any of those symptoms, the CDC advises that you call your healthcare provider for medical advice.

    How Many People Have Died From Coronavirus?

    The number of people who have died from COVID-19 remains fluid. Worldometer has a real-time tracker of coronavirus deaths.

    Where To Get The COVID Vaccine In Atlanta

    Zendaya spotted in Atlanta publix before filming Spider-Man
    Photo credit: Twitter
    Georgia health officials have been working hard to get more doses delivered to the state. Metro Atlanta now has several places that are doing inoculations for Georgia residents.
    If you’re looking for the COVID-19 vaccine in Atlanta, here are the vaccination sites.

    Final Words

    If you are at higher risk of getting sick, health authorities ask that you stay indoors as much as you can. Call your doctor to get 90-day prescriptions.

    See if you can go to the grocery store to pick up supplies to last you several days. More importantly, if you feel sick, call your doctor.

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  • Travel Ban: Everything You Need To Know

    Travel Ban: Everything You Need To Know

    2 Min Read

    With the European travel ban due to the coronavirus pandemic in effect, many wonder if a domestic travel ban is next at Hartsfield-Jackson as well as other international airports.

    The travel ban from parts of Europe went into effect Friday, March 13 as U.S. officials try to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

    What Is The Travel Ban From Europe?

    The European travel restrictions mean that Europeans are banned from flying to the United States for 30 days.

    All U.S. travelers who have come back are being screened for coronavirus upon arrival at 13 U.S. airports. 

    What Are The 13 Airports Screening For Coronavirus?

    1. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Massachusetts
    2. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
    3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
    4. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii
    5. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
    6. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
    7. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
    8. Los Angeles International Airport, (LAX), California
    9. Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
    10. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
    11. San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
    12. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
    13. Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia
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  • What To Watch On Netflix Right Now: 'Containment'

    What To Watch On Netflix Right Now: ‘Containment’

    3 Min Read

    Since Georgia’s governor declared an emergency, following that of the federal government, millions of Atlantans are sticking to a plan of self-isolation. That means movie time.

    Coincidentally, one of the movies streaming on Netflix right now is Containment, about a disease outbreak in Midtown Atlanta. Sound familiar?

    Watch Containment on Netflix HERE

    Containment, which stars David Gyasi, Christina Marie Moses and Chris Wood, debuted four years ago on the Sci Fi network. 

    The movie is about a viral contagion that spreads through Atlanta. Authorities impose a precarious quarantine on the city while trying to find a cure. 

    Here Are Some Other Netflix Movies Filmed in Atlanta

    Gone are the days when production would commence in L.A. movie lots. Along with the megalist of movies filmed here, Netflix movies are being filmed en masse in Atlanta. 

    If you’re wondering which films, shows and docuseries, here is a list: 

    Stranger Things

    Stranger Things 4 Coming Soon Netflix

    The “Stranger Things” franchise has been a hit for three seasons now on Netflix. The weird fantasy-sci fi drama focuses on strange happenings in a small town.

    The series has filmed in various places around metro Atlanta, including Gwinnett Place Mall for some spooky scenes.

    Watch Stranger Things on Netflix

    Raising Dion

    'Raising Dion' Seeks Men, Women in Atlanta For Party Guests Scene

    This fantastical series debuted in the fall of 2019 on Netflix. The project centers on a little boy with special powers and a mother trying to process it all. Actor Michael B. Jordan played a major role in getting the project made and also stars.

    Watch Raising Dion on Netflix

    Ozark

    Best Netflix series filmed in Atlanta - Ozark

    The Netflix series “Ozark” stars Jason Bateman as Marty Byrde, a financial planner who relocates his family from Chicago to the Ozarks. Laura Linney plays his wife Wendy. Sofia Hublitz and Skylar Gaertner play the couple’s kids.

    Watch Ozark on Netflix

    Insatiable

    Netflix's 'Insatiable' Hiring Actors For Scenes In Atlanta

    “Insatiable” is a movie about a teenage girl who loses weight and immediately becomes popular at school. All at the direction of a disgraced civil lawyer-turned-beauty pageant coach.

    Watch Insatiable on Netflix

    Battlbox

    Best Netflix series filmed in Atlanta

    Made by High Noon Entertainment, Battlox is a Netflix series that is a game show. It is currently in production in Georgia and is set to debut in 2020.

    Fall From Grace

    First Look: Tyler Perry's 'A Fall From Grace'

    Made by Tyler Perry Studios here in Atlanta, Fall From Grace is a movie that filmed in five days. It is a Netflix favorite.

    Watch Fall From Grace On Netflix

    The Hunger Games

    Hunger Games filmed in Atlanta

    The Hunger Games. is a sci fi series based on a dystopian future where teens Katniss and Peeta are drafted for a televised event pitting young competitors against each other. The movie was partially filmed in Atlanta.

    Atlanta continues to be the epicenter of modern-day movie making in the United States. There have been more than 700 TV and movie productions in the last few years. And it’s not going to stop anytime soon.

    If you have a great TV or film idea, you can shop it at Tyler Perry Studios or even film it with the movie equipment you need. Whatever, Atlanta is the movie capital of the world.

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  • Delta cuts capacity by 40%

    Delta Cuts Capacity Due To Coronavirus Pandemic

    2 Min Read

    Delta Air Lines announced Friday that it is cutting its capacity by 70% as travel demand plunges to unseen levels due to the coronavirus pandemic.

    The Atlanta-based company said that it is experiencing “unprecedented revenue impact.”

    The airline industry has been hit the hardest by the coronavirus pandemics, especially after the U.S. instituted a travel ban from most of Europe.

    Coronavirus Pandemic Causes Delta To Cut Capacity

    Cancellations are rising dramatically with net bookings now negative for travel over the next four weeks. To put that in perspective, we’re currently seeing more cancellations than new bookings over the next month,” the company said in a news release.

    Other measures Delta is implementing include the following:

    • Suspending flights to continental Europe, except for London
    • Instituting a hiring freeze and offering voluntary short-term, unpaid leaves immediately
    • Parking up to 300 aircraft

    Along with other major airlines, Delta is currently waiving change fees for all flights booked between March 1-31.

    The no-fee flight changes also apply to international flights previously booked and scheduled to fly in March.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some helpful links:


    Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.  

    To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

    Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

    More Articles Like This:

    Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist

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  • Coronavirus Cleaning Products: Things You Should Be Buying Online Right Now

    2 Min Read

    With so much  anxiety over the coronavirus pandemic, you may be wondering what to buy from the stores. The thing is, don’t panic: That’s not going to help anything or anyone.

    What you do want to do is take a measured approach to getting what you need. This article is going to show you some things you can pick up right now.

    Coronavirus Cleaning Products: Buy These Things Online Right Now

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a list of products that can help fight coronavirus (COVID-19). 

    Here’s what the agency says: “An individual pesticide product may be marketed and sold under a variety of names. If you are seeking additional information about a pesticide product, refer to the EPA Registration Number (EPA Reg. No.), found on the product label, not the brand name. When purchasing a product for use against a specific pathogen, check the EPA Reg. No. versus the products included on this list.”

    Here are some of the disinfectants the EPA recommends: 

    Find the complete list of products HERE.

    Beware Of Scams

    The FTC and FDA recently issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products that claim to be able to treat or cure the coronavirus.

    The companies’ products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver, the FTC says.

    Final Word

    No matter what you do, the key is to take practical precautions and not to panic. As you’ve been hearing about, you can stay safe by following the following good hygiene:

    • Wash your hands frequently
    • Avoid touching your face
    • Cough into your elbow

    Above all, stay safe out there.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some helpful links:

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  • What Is A 401(k)? & How Does It Work?

    What Is A 401(k)? & How Does It Work?

    3 Min Read

    When it comes to investing in yourself, one of the most easiest and convenient ways is by contributing to a 401(k).

    If you’re familiar with it, this article is going to be a wonderful refresher. If not, then we’ll educate you on what you need to know about a 401(k) and why it’s a smart investment.

    What Is A 401(k)? And How Does It Work?

    A 401(k) is a retirement plan that allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars. It is typically sponsored by your employer.

    With most money transactions, the government adds a tax to whatever you do. But that’s not the case with a 401(k).

    The plan allows employees to save and invest a portion of their paycheck. A 401(k) is a way for you to get more bang for buck because the contribution is untaxed.

    However, when you make a withdrawal, you will then be taxed! But more on that later…

    When Did 401(k) Plans Start?

    The 401(k) originated in the late 1970s. That’s when the U.S. Congress enacted the Revenue Act of 1978, which included Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.

    Section 401(k) stipulated that workers could defer taxes on compensation.

    If You Leave Your Job, What Happens To Your 401(K)?

    One of the most-asked questions is, “What happens to my 401(k) when I leave my job?” When this happens, you have some options:

    1. You may be permitted to keep the money with your old company, although you’re allowed to move it without being penalized by paying income taxes.
    2. You can “roll” your money to an IRA, (called a rollover IRA), which can be done by a banking institution of your choice.
    3. You could take a “lump sum distribution,” which means you can cash out. If you do this, you will be hit with steep “early withdrawal fee,” perhaps as high as 10% (those age 59.5 and up are exempt).

    Where Does Your Money Go In A 401(K) Plan?

    A 401(k) can be viewed as a savings account, but it is more or less an investment account. There are three entities that operate your investment account. They are either:

    • A brokerage firm
    • A bank
    • An investment firm

    Which ever one you choose, your money will usually get invested in mutual funds, stocks and bonds.

    he money will be invested for your retirement, usually in your choice of a variety of mutual funds.

    What Is A Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA?

    The primary difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA is that a Roth IRA allows you to pay taxes immediately on your contributions.

    This has several benefits, including the fact that you won’t be saddled with them when you retire on a fixed income.

    Should You Open A 401(K)?

    You should definitely open a 401(K) and the earlier the better. By some estimates, if you open a 401(k) with your employer when you’re 22 years old, you’ll have a $1 million in it by the time you retire.

    If your employer matches your contribution (not all companies do), you’re in even better shape to fund your future retirement.

    I hope this has been helpful so that you can see the benefits of a 401(k). If you have questions, let me know in the comments.

    Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:

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  • Atlanta funkfest 2020

    Atlanta Funkfest 2020: Times, Dates, Info

    2 Min Read

    Funkfest 2020 is happening in Atlanta on Friday, May 29 and Saturday, May 30 at The Home Depot Backyard located in the shadow of Mercedez-Benz Stadium.

    Funkfest is a U.S. tour that brings some of the music scene’s best acts from the 1990s and early 2000s to the stage.

    Funkfest 2020: Atlanta Music Lineup

    Here is some of the music lineup we know about so far:

    • Bobby V.
    • Ludacris
    • Lil Kim
    • Missy Elliot
    • Rapsody
    • T.I.
    • The Dream
    • Trina
    • Tweet
    • Young Bloodz
    • Xscape

    Get Tickets Here

    No outside food and beverages (including alcohol) are permitted inside the venue.

    The following items are NOT permitted inside the venue and will be confiscated at the gate:

    • Outside food and beverages
    • Tents
    • Grills
    • Video recorders
    • Coolers
    • Pets (except as aids to persons with disabilities)
    • Motor homes or RV’s and golf umbrellas
    • No purses or book-bags will be allowed (except women’s wristlets)

    There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.

    Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!

    Read more AtlantaFi.com stories:
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  • How To Apply For The Making The Band Casting Call In Atlanta

    How To Apply For The Making The Band Casting Call In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    Of course, you’re familiar with Making the Band, the reality TV show that has developed a cult following 20+ years since it last aired on MTV.

    Now, Viacom is rebooting Making the Band, and they’re casting in Atlanta. The idea behind the show is that Sean “Diddy” Combs and his team are once again trying to come up with the “ultimate new musical group.”

    Making The Band Atlanta: Here’s How To Apply

    Despite his name recognition, Diddy is not as involved as he was previously, but his three sons are up to the task.

    Eligibility Requirements

    Among other rules, here are some of the main requirements:

    • You must be at least 18 years of age
    • You must be a U.S. citizen, a legal permanent U.S. resident, or possess the appropriate U.S. employment authorization
    • You are not currently a candidate for public office
    • If chosen to move on, you will be required to reside for a while in Los Angeles (although the city may change)
    • You are currently not a party to a music publishing contract or any obligation that would hinder endorsement, merchandising or promotion.

    How To Audition For Making the Band 2

    To audition for Making the Band, you’ll need the following:

      • Submit an online “audition” to MakingTheBandCasting.com
      • Pick a Song: Select from the list of songs on the Site that are permitted as audition songs (the “Approved Songs”). Only performances of Approved Songs will be considered and failure to comply may result in your submission being disregarded.
      • Record and Upload your Performance: Record yourself singing one (1) of the Approved Songs (your “Video Audition”), with backing track, or beats and follow the submission instructions to upload your video.

    Final Words

    Auditions will remain open until March 22, 2020 (the “Submission Deadline”). The Submission Deadline may be changed in Producer’s sole discretion, so you should continue to check the Site for any updates.


    Atlanta has become a movie mecca in recent years and Georgia has been a favorite location for TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies that agree to shoot locally. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in 2018-19 and the foreseeable future.

    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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  • Casi Cielo brunch: What's on the menu

    Casi Cielo Opening For Brunch

    2 Min Read

    Casi Cielo, the Sandy Springs restaurant inspired by Oaxacan roots, will now be open for brunch on Sundays.

    The eatery will search brunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. starting on March 15, 2020.

    Casi Cielo Opening For Brunch Starting In March 2020

    Casi Cielo brunch will continue with Chef Juan Ruiz’s elevated dishes paired with seasonal cocktails.

    During the week, the restaurant will continue to serve such hits as sous-vide and charcoal baked octopus and lobster, charcoal rice, Mexican foie-gras meatballs with tenderloin tartar.

    Where Is Casi Cielo Located?

    Casi Cielo is located at 6125 Roswell Rd #200, Atlanta, GA 30328. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Is brunch your thing? Here are some of the best brunches restaurants in Atlanta.

    Up Next: Best Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta

    Here Are The Best Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta Right Now

     

    Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.

    But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.

    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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  • Slim and Husky's opens in Adair Park in Atlanta

    Slim and Husky’s Pizza To Open In Southwest Atlanta’s Adair Park

    2 Min Read

    Slim and Husky’s pizza is opening its second metro Atlanta restaurant, this time in Adair Park, Atlantafi.com has learned. The Nashville-based chain is having a grand opening celebration on March 21 from 12 to 4 p.m., the eatery announced.

    The eatery opened its first Atlanta location (Howell Mill Road) in 2019. 

    What’s On The Menu At Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria?

    Slim & Husky’s has a number of tasty menu items with awesome names (and there’s an obvious appreciation for the Wu-Tang Clan). Here are some of the menu faves:

    • The Smokin’ Herb

      The White Sauce is Slammin, S+H House Cheese Blend, Spinach, Red Onions and Mushrooms. Choose from Smoked Chicken or Smoked Salmon.

    • Red Light Special

      Spicy Red Sauce, Fresh Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomato Blend and Fresh Basil

    • P.R.E.A.M.

      The White Sauce is Slammin, S+H House Cheese Blend, Spinach, Pepperoni, Pulled Italian Sausage, Mushrooms and Red Onions.

    Where is Slim & Husky’s In Adair Park?

    The Adair Park location of Slim & Husky’s is at 581 Metropolitan Pkwy SW Atlanta, GA 30310. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    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.

    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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