Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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Bank of America Plaza in downtown Atlanta is in the midst of a major renovation that will ultimately lead to the structure being rechristened as “The South Star.”
The CP Group, a commercial real estate investment and management firm, is currently in working on a $50 million renovation of Bank of America Plaza, the tallest building in the Southeastern U.S.
Acquired in 2022 in partnership with HPS Investment Partners, LLC, CP Group is revitalizing the 55-story Midtown Atlanta skyscraper into a modern, community-focused workplace experience, now rebranded as “The South Star.”
Bank of America Plaza Being Reimagined in Atlanta
With its distinctive golden spire illuminating the Atlanta skyline, Bank of America Plaza has long been a symbol of prestige. Now, CP Group is reintroducing the tower in a whole new light, transforming it into a premier destination for businesses seeking a dynamic, high-end office environment.
“We are proud to officially put shovels in the ground on this transformative repositioning,” said Chris Eachus, Partner at CP Group. “This marks a new chapter for one of Atlanta’s most recognized buildings, enhancing its offerings to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce.”
A Visionary Redesign
CP Group has enlisted Gensler, a global architecture firm, to oversee the redesign and Holder Construction to lead the renovations. A major highlight is the complete modernization of the 20,000-square-foot lobby, paying homage to the tower’s original Art Deco revival design with a contemporary twist.
New features include:
- An upscale, barista-operated café offering specialty coffee, light bites, and cocktails.
- A versatile huddle-and-focus workspace for guests and tenants seeking a change of scenery.
- A curated art gallery showcasing rotating exhibits from local institutions.
- Plans for a high-end restaurant and a renovated 55th-floor event space and tenant lounge with panoramic city views.
“Our design reconnects the tower to the city, bringing its ‘golden glow’ from the spire to the ground level, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for tenants and visitors,” said Kevin Songer, Co-Managing Director for Gensler Atlanta.
Enhancing Workplace Flexibility
As part of the renovations, CP Group recently delivered 100,000 square feet of move-in-ready spec suites under its worCPlaces flexible workspace program. These 13 new suites cater to businesses of all sizes, offering premium office solutions within an iconic setting.
A Top Destination for Leading Companies
The transformation of Bank of America Plaza has already attracted major tenants. Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP, a global law firm, has signed a 94,000-square-foot lease, relocating its Atlanta office to the tower.
Cool events are year-round in the city. Every Atlanta weekend has something cool to do. The city has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year.
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Nice weather is upon us in Georgia, and that means it’s an ideal time to cultivate a garden in Atlanta and others parts of the Peach State.
Not only is it a very sustainable decision, but it’s a great idea when it comes to feeding your family.
In this article, we’ll tell you the best fruits and vegetables you can grow in Atlanta as well as the best times to grow them and other things about planting.
What Vegetables Grow In Spring In Georgia?
In the springtime is the best season for planting and growing crops in northwest Georgia. The weather is mild enough to support substantial growth and the wet season of May makes for ample blossoming to occur.
Around March is a good time to plant your beans, no matter if they’re of the lima, pole or snap variety. It’s also a great time to plant corn, but be cognizant of where you put it because it could shade over plants as it grows taller and taller.
You can also plant your peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, okra and squash. Your melons such as canteloupe and watermelon will benefit by an early spring planting as well.
After the first planting, you should lay out a second round of seeds two to three weeks later.
What Vegetables Grow In Winter In Georgia?
In the winter, Georgia farmers can really continue their harvests if they plant turnips, which thrive in the colder months.
Leafy greens like collards, kale and mustards all take around a month to six weeks to mature, which could take you into March in most cases.
Also, vegetables with long growth periods under the earth include carrots, broccoli, lettuce, radishes spinach and arugula.
Here Are All The Fruits & Vegetables You Can Grow In Atlanta
Growing your own food has long been a Southern tradition, but it has taken on special significance with the coronavirus pandemic.
A lot of people think Georgia is just known for its peaches (Peach State, I get it), but the fact is that apples, watermelons, peanuts and many other fruits and vegetables are major crops here.
Let’s look at some of the many fruits and vegetables you can grow in Georgia.
View this post on InstagramGeorgia-Grown Fruits And Vegetables
- Apples
- Basil
- Beets
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cantaloupes
- Carrots
- Collards
- Cucumbers
- Eggplant
- Field Peas
- Greens
- Irish Potatoes
- Lettuce
- Lima Beans
- Muscadine Grapes
- Mushrooms
- Okra
- Peaches
- Peanuts
- Pears
- Pecans
- Peppers
- Persimmons
- Pumpkins
- Squash
- Strawberries
- Sweet Corn
- Sweet Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Vidalia Onions
- Watermelons
- Wheat
What Fruits Are Native To Georgia?
View this post on Instagram
When it comes to fruit, Atlanta is an inhospitable place to grow citrus such as oranges, plums and mangoes. Bananas are possible, but they’ll typically grow on the small side.Some fruits have been imported from elsewhere and have literally taken root in Georgia. But there are also some fruits that have always been here.
Here are some fruits that grow well in Atlanta and other parts of Georgia:
Georgia’s Grapes (Muscadines)
Georgia’s grape industry is focused on the muscadine, which is a South America-native fruit with a think purplish skin and musky flavor.
Muscadines are high in antioxidants and fiber. These grapes are easy to grow in Georgia as well.
Crab Apples
Georgia is well known for its crab apples, which grow well in Atlanta. Crab apple trees can be planted in spring, summer and fall as long as they get plenty of sunlight.
You should water them generously in the first month or so, allowing the roots to spread in the Georgia clay.
Pears
The most popular pears to grow in Georgia are the Bartlett and Anjou, which are European varieties. Although you can grow pears in metro Atlanta, a prevalent bacterial fungus makes it difficult to do so commercially, although there are exceptions.
Pears
The peach is Georgia’s state fruit, but it hasn’t always been. Georgia experienced a bad cotton crop sometime after 1920 and switched its focus to producing peaches, even adopting the moniker “The Peach State” for marketing purposes.
It’s true, that peaches grow well in Georgia, but they are only typically available here from mid-May to early August. After that, peaches are imported from other parts of the world.
Final Words
Atlanta and other parts of northwest Georgia has some very fertile soil for growing fruits and vegetables. All it takes is some time and effort on your part.
If you prefer to buy your own fruits and vegetables, here’s where the local farmer’s markets are in Atlanta.
Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest information from the Peach State’s capital city.
If you’re in the market for a nice plot of land, you’re making a wise decision. Real estate prices in rural areas are going up, but are still affordable. Here’s how to buy land in Georgia.
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We all know Wayfair for those particular items not sold at your local Walmart or Target, but now the retailer is launching in the physical space. The company has picked Atlanta for the site of its second brick-and-mortar store.
This will be the second large-format retail store for Wayfair, a leading home goods e-commerce company.
When Will Wayfair Open in Atlanta?
Set to launch in 2026, the 150,000-square-foot store will be located at The District at Howell Mill, offering shoppers an extensive selection of home products in an immersive, in-person shopping experience.
The District at Howell Mill shopping center is located at 1801 Howell Mill Road NW. This site is a former Walmart location that closed in 2023 after a fire in 2022.
The expansion follows the success of Wayfair’s first large-format store in Wilmette, Illinois, which opened in May 2024 and significantly boosted regional sales.
Since its launch, Illinois sales have grown over 15% faster than the national average, reinforcing the company’s confidence in brick-and-mortar expansion. However, Wayfair’s stock has struggled, dropping more than 50% in the past year, though analysts remain optimistic about a potential rebound in profitability, per InvestingPro forecasts.
Liza Lefkowski, Wayfair’s vice president of merchandising and stores, emphasized the company’s dedication to enhancing the customer experience by blending its vast online catalog with a hands-on retail setting.
Strategically positioned in Atlanta’s Upper Westside, the new store will offer easy access from I-75 and serve key neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, and downtown. Additionally, its proximity to Wayfair’s fulfillment center in McDonough, GA, is expected to enable faster delivery for larger items.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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Another stellar eatery is about to open in Dunwoody — and this time it’s got a familiar name behind it.
Atlanta restaurateur Barry Mills—known for FLIP Burger Boutique, HD1, and Big B’s Fish Joint— is set to open his newest venture, Steak & Grace.
The eatery is one of many new Atlanta restaurants opening this year.
When Is Steak & Grace Opening in Dunwoody?
Steak & Grace will open its doors on Friday, March 14, at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy in Dunwoody Village.
Steak & Grace features a spacious 3,500-square-foot layout with an open floor plan and a modern aesthetic. The design embraces light, airy tones, abundant natural light from large windows, and stylish, whimsical elements. A large patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace and an expanded bar, will further enhance the experience.
What’s On the Menu at Steak & Grace?
Steak & Grace reimagines the classic steakhouse experience, blending premium steaks, seafood, and pasta with top-tier service in a relaxed, inviting setting. Guests can expect exceptional quality without the formality of a traditional steakhouse.
Helming the kitchen is Executive Chef Conor O’Reilly (formerly of Fifth Group Restaurants), who takes a composed-plate approach rather than the standard à la carte steakhouse format. His menu emphasizes seasonal, high-quality ingredients, refined flavors, and a range of options, including gluten-free, keto, and dairy-free dishes.
Where Is Steak & Grace Located?
Steak & Grace is located at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy Ste 101, Atlanta, GA 30338. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
When it comes to Atlanta steakhouses, we have high hopes for Steak & Grace.
According to the owner, Steak & Grace’s design fosters a social and casual ambiance aimed at attracting a lively neighborhood crowd. To elevate the dining experience, upbeat music will play throughout the space, creating an energetic yet comfortable environment.
The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.
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It’s a green-winning weekend in Atlanta as the city celebrates St Patrick’s Day in a major way. Atlanta offers a variety of events to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Here are some notable festivities:
Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade
- Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM
- Location: Peachtree Street, Midtown Atlanta
- Details: As one of the country’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades, dating back to 1858, this event features clowns, floats, bands, bagpipes, dancers, drill teams, and more. The parade begins at 15th and Peachtree and concludes at 5th and Peachtree. Spectators are encouraged to use MARTA to the Midtown or Arts Center stations. Get more details, parade map and more.
Midtown St. Patrick’s Block Party
- Date & Time: Friday, March 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Location: Politan Row at Colony Square, 1197 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30361
- Details: Billed as Atlanta’s largest St. Patrick’s party, attendees can expect live music, food, and dancing.
Marietta Shamrock Shuffle 5K
- Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 9:30 AM
- Location: Marietta Square
- Details: This 5K walk/run is a Peachtree Road Race Qualifier supporting the Marietta Police Athletic League. Participants can enjoy a day of family fun with various activities suitable for all ages.
Shamrock Fest at Park Tavern
- Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 3:00 PM
- Location: Park Tavern, 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta
- Details: Attendees can enjoy live music, drink specials, food, and dancing.
Fadó Irish Pub St. Patrick’s Celebration
- Dates: March 15 & 17, 2025
- Location: Fadó Irish Pub, 273 Buckhead Ave., Atlanta
- Details: The outdoor block party on March 15 features live music, Irish dancers, bagpipers, and food and drink specials. The indoor party on March 17 includes live music and a DJ. Note: Must be 21+ for the outdoor block party after 1:00 PM.
St. Patrick’s Streetcar Bar Crawl
- Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
- Location: Wicked Wolf, 1080 Peachtree St NE #7, Atlanta, GA 3030
- Details: Check it out
What Else Is Happening This Weekend in Atlanta?
To find a curated list of the best events happening near you, check out our Atlanta Weekend Guide, which shows you which festivals, parties and other events are on tap.
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Atlanta residents will paint the town green this weekend with the return of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Midtown.
Started in 1858 by the Hibernian Benevolent Society, the parade holds the title as the longest running event in Atlanta history, continuing the tradition of celebrating the city’s Irish culture and history.The parade will begin at noon sharp at the intersection of Peachtree Street and 15th Street and will continue down Peachtree to 5th Street, concluding at 1:30 p.m.
When Is The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Atlanta This Year?
The 141st Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade, presented by Irish Network Atlanta, will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025.
Annually, hundreds of attendees line the parade route to witness entertainment from across not only the state but the country. This year thousands of people are expected to participate with units ranging from floats, bands, bagpipe and drum corps to childrens’ groups, Irish dancers, animal groups. A host of Irish and local dignitaries join in the parade as well, such as Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
For local Atlanta parade participants with Irish roots, the parade is a much-anticipated annual tradition. Like the O’Riordan Clan, for example, who for more than five decades has made the St. Patrick’s Parade a family tradition.
This year’s grand marshal is Ireland-native Georgia Tech Football kicker David Shanahan, the first from the country to be awarded a scholarship to play American college football.
PARADE CELEBRATES IRISH HERITAGE, IMPACT IN ATLANTA
The parade is presented by Irish Network Atlanta, the 20th chapter of Irish Network USA, whose mission is to bolster business opportunities and economic development between the U.S. and Ireland; support and encourage the Irish arts, culture and sports in the state; and serve as a conduit between newly arrived Irish immigrants and their communities in member cities and states.
“It is a true honor to have been granted the opportunity to represent our growing Irish community in Atlanta with such a prestigious and longstanding event,” said Sinead Connaughton, president of the Irish Network Atlanta Board of Directors. “The St Patrick’s Parade is the perfect platform to help further our mission and we look forward, with great anticipation, to this year’s event and many more to come.”
The relationship between Ireland and Atlanta has been strong for decades and has only continued to grow in recent years. The level of Irish investment in Georgia is significant with over 20 Irish companies now operating in approximately 80 facilities across the state, employing approximately 6,800 Georgians.
Additionally, according to the Consulate of Ireland in Atlanta, nine percent (9%) of Georgia residents claim Irish and Scots-Irish heritage, with approximately 60,000 in Fulton County.
“The Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day parade is the highlight of our year in the city. We welcome all Atlantans to join our celebration of the strength of Ireland-Atlanta connections,” said Consul General Caoimhe Ní Chonchúir.
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Because you can’t get enough of Roy, Horace, Jules, Mallory and the gang, Beauty in Black the smash Netflix hit from Atlanta filmmaker Tyler Perry is returning for a second season.
The popular show has had casting calls in Atlanta as well.
Perry, who films at his namesake studio in southwest Atlanta, confirmed that there will be another season of the series, saying on social media. “You asked. We answered. Season 2 coming soon,” he posted on X.
Netflix has officially renewed “Beauty in Black” for a second season. A teaser has been released, hinting at escalating conflicts and deeper character developments. The release date for Season 2 has yet to be announced.
“We left fans on the edge of their seats at the end of Season 1, and we’re thrilled to continue Kimmie’s journey as she steps into her power as the newest member of the Bellarie family,” Perry tells Tudum. “Kimmie exemplifies the spirit of never underestimating the underdog, and I can’t wait for fans to continue to see her story unfold. If you thought Season 1 was a wild ride, you’re not ready for Season 2.”
About Beauty in Black
Upon its release, Beauty in Black garnered significant attention, debuting as Netflix’s fourth-most-watched series with 5.6 million views in its first four days. In its second week, it rose to the top of Netflix’s TV chart, amassing 8.7 million views.
The narrative centers on Kimmie, an exotic dancer whose life intertwines with the affluent yet dysfunctional Bellaire family, proprietors of a cosmetics empire entangled in illicit activities.
Kimmie’s journey begins as she seeks a fresh start by applying for a scholarship to a prestigious hair school founded by the Bellaire family. Her path leads her into a complex web of power dynamics, family secrets, and criminal enterprises, including a devious trafficking scheme. The series explores themes of survival, ambition, and the dark underbelly of the beauty industry.
Who Is The Main Cast of Beauty in Black?
- Taylor Polidore Williams as Kimmie
- Crystle Stewart as Mallory Bellaire
- Amber Reign Smith as Rain
- Xavier Smalls as Angel
- Julian Horton as Roy Bellaire
- Steven G. Norfleet as Charles Bellaire
- Richard Lawson as Norman
- Terrell Carter as Varney
- Shannon Wallace as Calvin
- Charles Malik Whitfield as Jules
- Debbi Morgan as Olivia Bellaire
Release Information:
The first season premiered on October 24, 2024, comprising 16 episodes split into two parts. The initial eight episodes were released on the premiere date, with the remaining eight episodes (Part 2) made available on March 6, 2025.
Critically, the series received mixed reviews. Some praised its exploration of complex themes and character dynamics, while others critiqued it for over-the-top drama and lack of nuanced storytelling.
Final Word
With more than 700 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the 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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Southwest Airlines will begin charging most passengers for checked bags starting May 28, 2025, marking the end of its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” policy. However, frequent flyers, Southwest credit card holders, and Business Select fare purchasers will still receive free checked baggage.
Why is Southwest Charging For Bags Now?
The decision has sparked widespread debate, with some mourning the loss of a key competitive advantage, while others point to financial pressures from activist investors like Elliott Management as a possible factor.
This shift represents a major departure from Southwest’s traditionally customer-friendly approach, raising questions about its impact on customer loyalty and market position.
The changes come about a month after Southwest announced mass layoffs across its operations.
Southwest Airlines has long been known for its “Bags Fly Free” policy, which allowed passengers to check two bags for free—a rare perk in the airline industry. This two-bag policy applied to all passengers, regardless of ticket type, and covered standard-sized checked luggage (each bag up to 50 lbs and 62 inches in total dimensions).
Key Features of the 2-Bag Policy (Before the Change)
- Free for all passengers (no need for elite status or special credit cards).
- Applies to domestic and international flights.
- Overweight/oversized fees applied if bags exceeded the 50-lb or 62-inch limit.
This policy was a major differentiator for Southwest, setting it apart from competitors that charge for even the first checked bag. However, with Southwest announcing that it will begin charging most passengers for checked bags starting May 28, 2025, this signature benefit is coming to an end, except for frequent flyers, Southwest credit card holders, and Business Select fare purchasers who will still receive free checked bags.
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The Atlanta Falcons are releasing one of its top stalwart defensive ends, Grady Jarrett. The news comes from several NFL insiders, citing Grady’s sports agent Todd France.
Jarrett, a two-time Pro Bowler, team captain and Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, may have laced up his cleats for the Dirty Birds for the last time.
He was due to make $16.25 million this upcoming season, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
Grady Jarrett: Falcons Star Being Released
Jarrett, a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, has been one of the team’s most consistent and dominant defenders since being drafted in the fifth round (137th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Clemson.
Career Highlights:
- Super Bowl LI Performance (2016 Season): Jarrett had a breakout moment in Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, tying a Super Bowl record with three sacks of Tom Brady.
- Pro Bowl Selections: He has been named to the Pro Bowl twice (2019, 2020) for his outstanding play.
- Team Leader: A cornerstone of Atlanta’s defense, Jarrett has been known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, tallying numerous sacks and tackles for loss throughout his career.
- Contract Extension: In 2019, he signed a four-year, $68 million contract extension, reaffirming his status as a franchise player.
- Injury Setback: His 2023 season was cut short due to an ACL tear in Week 8, a significant loss for the Falcons’ defense.
Playing Style:
Jarrett is renowned for his quick first step, relentless motor, and strong technique, making him a force against both the run and the pass. Despite being considered undersized for a defensive tackle (around 6’0″, 305 lbs), he has excelled with his agility and power.
Final Word
Jarrett remains one of the most respected players on the Falcons’ roster and continues to be a key leader for the franchise. Where will he end up? It’s hard to tell, but we’re confident it won’t be with the New Orleans Saints.
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The hottest sport right now in Atlanta is pickleball. From old tennis courts on the southside to shiny, new facilities on the northside, pickleball is king.
Now a new facility is bringing the popular sport to the West End in a large way. The Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club opened the first week in April in the West End. It’s the first Dill Dinkers franchise in metro Atlanta.
The club, which is being brought to us by husband-and-wife regional developer duo Daniel and Laura Hardeman and their team, is in a former industrial building that’s being remade by Lee + White owners Ackerman & Co.
Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club in Atlanta: What To Expect
Some features of the Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club facilities include these features:
- 11 championship-sized courts with Pro-Cushion surfaces and fencing
- Climate-controlled environment
- Event spaces for birthday parties, corporate events, and more
- Pro shop with paddles, apparel, and accessories
- Ball machine for members and non-members
- Large bathrooms with space to change
Other amenities
- Clinics, lessons, leagues, and social events
- Business advertising
- Event rentals
Pickleball’s popularity
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
Where Is Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club Located?
Dill Dinkers is located at 1200 White Street SW, Suite 1000 Atlanta, Georgia 30310. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Atlanta’s West End is in the middle of transformational change right now, which aim to enhance the area’s character and amenities as travelers look to explore the city. Some key components of the development plans include retail expansion, plans for approximately 125,000 square feet of retail space, including a grocery store, fitness center and local boutiques.
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