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.
-
Radio personality and comedian Wanda Smith has died, according to media reports.
Wanda Smith was a well-known comedian and radio personality based in Atlanta, Georgia.
Wanda Smith Cause of Death
Smith passed away Saturday, Oct. 12 due to cancer, one day after her 58th birthday.
Her friend and former colleague Frank Ski said that he was at his son Paxton’s chrisening when he got the call about Smith. “I loved Wanda a lot,” he said, adding that he’s been dealing with a lot of death lately.
In a statement, 103 Senior Vice President and Market Manager Rick Caffey said:
“Our hearts are weighing heavier today as we grieve the loss of our beloved Wanda Smith, someone who always made us smile and who was a big part of V-103 for years. We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to her family.”
In her role at V-103, dating back to 2006, Wanda Smith brought so much joy and care servicing the Atlanta community. Wanda’s impact touched lives beyond making us laugh… Many times she championed efforts behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of those who were without.
She gained widespread recognition for her long tenure as a co-host on the popular Atlanta radio station V-103, where she was part of “The Frank and Wanda Morning Show.”
Smith leaves behind her husband, LaMorris Sellers, and their three children.
Fellow comedian Lonnie Love posted on social media that she and Smith began Thor comedic careers together.
“I am sad to hear about the passing of comedian and radio host Wanda Smith,” she posted on X. “She was a staple in the Atlanta area and we came up in comedy together. She was the ultimate entertainer. Rest now Sis. Condolences to The Smith Family.
How Wanda Smith Got Her Start
Wanda Smith began her career in comedy in Atlanta in the late 1980s.
She got her start by performing stand-up comedy at local clubs around the city, which helped her develop her comedic style. Atlanta has long had a vibrant comedy scene, and Smith quickly became a fixture in it, earning a reputation for her sharp, relatable humor.
Her big break came when she was discovered by radio station V-103. She initially made appearances on the station before becoming a permanent part of “The Frank and Wanda Morning Show,” where she co-hosted with Frank Ski. Her success on the radio amplified her comedy career, allowing her to reach a larger audience and perform at bigger venues.
Smith’s comedic talent and quick wit made her a standout in Atlanta’s entertainment industry. Over the years, she built a strong following, both for her stand-up performances and her work in radio, helping to solidify her place as one of the city’s top comedians.
Smith was known for her humor, quick wit, and engaging interviews with celebrities. Her work on the radio helped her build a strong local following in Atlanta.
In addition to her radio career, Wanda Smith performed as a stand-up comedian, often appearing in comedy clubs around Atlanta and beyond. She was known for her observational humor, often drawing on her life experiences, relationships, and family.
One of the more public moments in her career occurred in 2018, when she was involved in a high-profile incident with comedian Katt Williams. Williams made some jokes at her expense during a radio interview, which led to a public back-and-forth between the two.
Despite this, Wanda Smith remained a significant figure in Atlanta’s comedy scene and continued to be recognized for her contributions to both radio and comedy in the area.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
Fall weather is the perfect time to get outdoors in the cool sun in Georgia. If you love barn fires, pumpkins, sweet potato pie, hay rides and more, check these autumn activities out.
In this article, I’m going to show you the best fall festivals to attend in Georgia. Let’s jump right into the fun.
Here Are The Best Georgia Fall Festivals
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best Georgia festivals you can attend this fall.
Atlanta Fall Wine Festival
Photo credit: Atlanta Wine Festivals The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival is happening Nov. 16 in Old Fourth Ward just across the street from Ponce City Market (whoohoo!) and it runs from1 pm-5 pm.
Atlanta Mimosa Festival
Photo credit: Atlanta Mimosa Festival Food and drink have never looked more fun than at the Atlanta Mimosa Festival, which takes place this Oct. 19, 2024 in October in Georgia’s biggest city.
Date & Time:
- Session 1: 12pm-4pm
- Session 2: 6pm-10pm
Location:
Old Fourth Ward Skate Park, 830 Willoughby Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Atlanta Bourbon Festival
The Atlanta Bourbon Festival kicks off with lively spirits and cool music for attendees.
Date & Time:
Sat, Oct. 26, 2024
Location:
Guardian Works
755 Echo St NW, Atlanta, GAGrandiose Grape Wine Festival
The Grandiose Grape Wine Festival will take place in Roswell this fall. Come on out for some vino, live music and more. Learn more here.
Date & Time:
Sat, Nov 5, 2 PM – 5 PM
Location:
The Mill Kitchen and Bar, 590 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell, GAWild Georgia Shrimp Festival
– (Jekyll Island, GA) Shrimp & Grits: The Wild Georgia Shrimp Festival, November 3-4 2023
The Shrimp & Grits Festival is set for Saturday, Nov. 3 and 4, 2023 on Jekyll Island, Georgia. The Festival brings together some of the best food businesses on the coast and other parts of Georgia.
Date & Time:
- Friday, October 25 from 4–9 PM
- Saturday, October 26 from 10 AM–9 PM
Oktoberfest
Photo credit: Pixabay
When the weather starts to get a bit cool, throngs of people are going to flock to Helen, Georgia in North Georgia for Oktoberfest.
The Helen, Ga. Oktoberfest, the longest running such festival in the United States, goes from September 5 through October 27. Like its German counterpart, the celebrations are wildly different from weekday to weekend.
The Southern Hart Brewing Co. is also having an Oktoberfest event: HartOberfest Music & Craft Festival in Hartwell.
Date & Time:
October 19, 2024, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Location:
Carolina Street on Hartwell Mainstreet, Hartwell, Ga.
Johns Creek Arts Festival 2024
The Johns Creek Arts Festival is back Oct. 19 and 20 in the North Fulton city. It’s happening just off Medlock Bridge Road and features artists showing off their wares, including pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry and more.
Taste & Brews Fall Fest
Taste & Brews Fall Fest comes to Canton, Ga., the second weekend in October. It features live music, and of course, brews and BBQ.
Date & Time:
Sat, October 12 and 13, 2024, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM EDT
Location:
Etowah River Park 600 Brown Industrial Parkway Canton, GA 30114Taste of Soul Fest
Friends Fall Festival
The Friends Fall Festival and Pumpkin Painting is an annual event geared toward the entire family. Bring your own pumpkin & make pumpkin art, games & food at Tumlin Park!
Date & Time:
Sat, October 19, 2024, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM EDT
Location:
Tumlin Park 400 Chestnut Hill Road Southwest Marietta, GA 30064
Little 5 Points Halloween Festival and Parade
The Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade is happening from Oct. 22 and 23. This year, there won’t be a parade. This event will still be just as fun. See the details.
Date & Time:
Saturday, October 22 and Sunday, October 23, 2022
Location:
The parade will creep down Austin and Moreland Avenue and end at Freedom Parkway in Atlanta.
Find a spot to watch on Moreland Ave!AJC Decatur Book Festival
The AJC Decatur Book Festival is back in-person this year after being virtual the last two years.
That means you are invited to gather with artists, authors, book lovers and more in person. The AJC Decatur Book Festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 1, at the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
Georgia Mountain Fall Fest
The Georgia Mountain Fall Fest kicks off October 8 and runs through the 16th. Come to Hiawassee, Georgia to experience the best in downhome arts and crafts, live music and great food. This year, the festival takes place at Georgia Mountain Fair Inc., 1311 Music Hall Dr..
Date & Time:Oct 7, 10 AM – Oct 15, 7 PMLocation:Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds1311 Music Hall RdHiawassee GA 30546Georgia State Fair
Come on down to Hampton, Georgia for the Georgia State Fair, which is set for Oct. 1 through 11. The kids can enjoy a petting zoo, rides, and races. Adults can enjoy the live music.
Time:
September 30, 2022 – October 9, 2022
Location
Atlanta Motor Speedway
1500 Tara Pl, Hampton, GA 30228
Fall Festival on Ponce
The Fall Festival on Ponce is set to be an arts and crafts bazaar with food and fun. The event is set for October 9 and 10 at Oak Grove Park.
Time:
Sun, Oct 9, 11 AM – 5 PM
Location:
Olmsted Linear Park 1788 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
Braselton Antique and Artisan Festival
The Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival is set for Oct. 22-24. Attendees can shop arts and crafts, including furniture and woodwork. The festival will take place at 115 Harrison St Braselton Ga 30517.
Date & Time:
Friday, October 21, 2022 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, October 23, 2022, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location:
Countryside Antiques
115 Harrison St Braselton Ga 30517.
Pumpkin Festival
If you love laser shows, live music and pumpkins, the Pumpkin Festival at Stone Mountain is a great event. The festival takes place through October 30, 2022.
Other Pumpkin Events Around Georgia:
- Pumpkin Patch Minis (Lawrenceville, Ga.) – Oct. 3
- Pumpkin Patch at Oakland Cemetery (Atlanta, Ga.) – Oct. 8 & 9, 2022
- Bremen Pumpkinfest (Bremen, Ga.)- Oct. 15
- Pumpkins at Callaway (Callaway Gardens) – Sept. 16-30
- The Great Pumpkin Fest (Canton, Ga.) – Oct. 22
Wild Rumpus Parade and Spectacle
The Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle happens every year in downtown Athens. This year, the event will happen on Saturday, October 29.
Chastain Park Arts Festival
The Chastain Park Arts Festival is slated for Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8, 2021 in Buckhead. The event is put on by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces. This two-day event will feature more than 200 fine local and regional artists and artisans set up along Park Drive in the park. Read more.
Time:
Saturday, November 5, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, November 6, 2022 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location:
4469 Stella Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30342
Viva Tequila Festival
The Viva Tequila Festival is an annual celebration of Latin America’s favorite alcoholic drink. Held in Atlanta each year, this year’s event will be something special. Get tickets.
Date & Time:
Sun, November 6, 2022, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST
Location:
West End – Monday Night Brewing Garage 933 Lee St SW , Atlanta, GA 30310
Georgia Farm Festivals
Photo credit: Frances Gunn / Unsplash If you want to visit a Georgia farm this year, festivals are a great recreational activity — they also provide food! Here are some farm festivals in Georgia you don’t want to miss.
- Apple Pickin’ Jubilee at Hillcrest Orchards — Through October 31, 2021
- Fall Fun at the Still Farm — Sept. 25 – Oct. 31, 2021
- Mitcham Farm Pumpkin Festival — Oct. 9 and 10, 2021
Final Word
For family and friends, there are a lot of fun things you can do with your family in Atlanta in North Georgia and across the state.
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.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
All this Diwali are taking place soon in Atlanta, Georgia. The Diwali Festival kicks off with two very important partnerships.
Atlantic Station is teaming up with the Atlanta Film Society — a key player in the city’s arts scene, recognized for championing independent artists and organizing the renowned Atlanta Film Festival — and NaanStop, a beloved family-owned Indian restaurant in Atlantic Station, to bring you its inaugural Diwali Festival this month.
What Is the Diwali Festival?
The Diwali Festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a treasured holiday celebrated across India and around the world. The event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
Marking the end of the festive season, Diwali gets its name from rows of clay lamps (deepa) lit outside homes to represent the inner light that wards off spiritual darkness. Join Atlantic Station for a memorable evening of cultural festivities.
When Is the Diwali Festival?
The Diwali Festival this year is set for Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.. at Atlantic Station | Atlantic Green | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363. Admission is free with two hours of complimentary parking.
Explore Your Atlanta
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
- Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
- Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL
-
If you love to enjoy a nice libation from time to time and you fancy yourself an artist of sorts, then there’s no doubt you would enjoy sip and paints.
Atlanta has quite a few sip-and-paint experiences throughout the metro area. Do you want to know where they are? Keep reading.
What Are Sip and Paints?
A sip and paint is a fun, social activity where participants gather to paint a picture while enjoying beverages, typically wine or cocktails. It’s a relaxed and creative event, often held in a studio, café, or even a private venue, where an instructor guides attendees through the process of creating a specific painting step by step.
The goal is to provide a fun, interactive experience that blends art with socializing, and it’s popular for a variety of occasions.
The “sip” part of sip and paint typically refers to wine, though some events allow participants to bring their own beverages (BYOB). Don’t expect a full Atlanta bar. Some venues also provide or sell drinks such as beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages.
Atlanta offers several fantastic sip-and-paint experiences, where you can unleash your creativity while enjoying a glass of wine or your favorite drink. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
1. Studio W.I.P. Atlanta
1020 White St SW Suite R-2 Suite R-2, Atlanta, GA 30310
- Location: Midtown
- Vibe: Laid-back and fun, this place encourages creativity and relaxation. The staff is known for being friendly and providing excellent guidance for beginner painters.
- BYOB: Bring your own wine and snacks.
- Notable Features: They offer private events, date nights, and team-building activities in addition to their regular classes.
- Book at Spray Paint & Sip at W.I.P. Studio
2. Painting with a Twist
1230 Caroline St NE #240, Atlanta, GA 30307
- Location: Multiple locations (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and others)
- Vibe: Fun and relaxed, with step-by-step painting instruction. Great for beginners and group events like birthdays or bachelorette parties.
- BYOB: You can bring your own wine or beer, and snacks.
- Notable Features: They offer themed events like “Paint Your Pet” and seasonal art.
2. Sips n Strokes
5212, 976 Jefferson St NW c, Atlanta, GA 30318
- Location: East Atlanta and multiple other locations
- Vibe: Casual and upbeat, perfect for a night out with friends. Instructors lead you through the process with a focus on fun and self-expression.
- BYOB: Yes, bring your own drinks and snacks.
- Notable Features: They focus on trendy, colorful, and easy-to-follow painting designs.
3. Muse Paintbar
925 Battery Ave SE Suite 1120, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Location: The Battery Atlanta
- Vibe: Chic and artistic, with a studio-bar setting in the heart of The Battery. Great for date nights or group events.
- Full Bar: Muse Paintbar offers its own bar with wine, beer, and snacks, so no need to BYOB.
- Notable Features: Their studio is also known for hosting special events and private parties, often tying in themes with seasonal or local events.
4. Pinot’s Palette
- Location: Johns Creek and Buckhead
- Vibe: Stylish and modern, offering a more curated, gallery-like experience. Instructors guide guests through the process, and the artwork is more sophisticated.
- BYOB: Yes, bring your own beverages, though some locations offer wine for purchase.
- Notable Features: They often host fundraisers and community events, making it a great way to support local causes while enjoying the art.
5. Art & Beyond Studio
8560 Holcomb Bridge Rd Ste 102, Alpharetta, GA 30022
- Location: Alpharetta, GA (just outside Atlanta)
- Vibe: A welcoming and relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff guiding you through each step of the painting process. Great for family-friendly events and private parties.
- BYOB: Yes, you can bring your own drinks.
- Notable Features: They offer art classes beyond just sip-and-paint, so you can explore other forms of creativity.
7. Paint Sip Socialize
1259 Glenwood Ave SE A, Atlanta, GA 30316
- Location: Mobile – available throughout the Atlanta area
- Vibe: Fun and interactive, they bring the materials and setup to you. Whether at home or a venue, you’ll get personalized attention and creativity in a relaxed atmosphere.
- BYOB: Yes, as it’s an at-your-place experience.
- Notable Features: They specialize in custom paintings, so you can select exactly what you want to paint for your group.
Each of these sip-and-paint places in Atlanta provides a fun, creative, and social experience, whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or a unique date activity.
Final Word
A sip and paint is great for a Friday or Saturday night in Atlanta. The vibe is usually light-hearted and fun, with music playing in the background, and attendees are encouraged to enjoy themselves and explore their creativity, even if their painting isn’t “perfect.
You can attend solo, with a group of friends, or as part of a larger event. It’s common for birthday parties, team-building activities, or date night.
Atlanta is known for its fun-filled weekends. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
- Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
-
Dressing up for an event or party has become a lost art nowawdays. When it’s time to put on an outfit, what will you wear?
The days of dressing all the way up may be over (for men or women), but you should still put a little effort into your outfit. Not only will you stand out, but you’ll feel more confident because you’ll look and feel good.
How To Dress Up (Men’s Style Guide)
This article is going to go over some men’s outfits for the nightlife as well as a day on the town. But before we do, here are some grooming resources you may enjoy:
- Best Barbershops In Atlanta
- Best Barber Chairs For Your At-Home Salon
- 10 Awesome Hair Clippers For A Reliable Shave
If you’re going out on the town in a city like Atlanta or even a smaller place, you’ll need to look your best.
In a big city, the simple reason is that there are people that you’re trying to impress that you don’t even know.
Here are some great outfits you can wear to the club, from stylish pieces to casual threads. No matter if you’re headed to the bar or to a surprise party, here is the men’s guide to dressing for a club.
Cloudstyle Men’s 3-Piece 2 Buttons Slim Fit Formal Suit
Men’s Linen Suit 2 Piece Slim Fit Suit Summer Beach Wedding Suit
Mizzen + Main Spinnaker Mens Slim Fit Button Down Dress Shirt
COOFANDY Men’s Casual Dress Shirt Button Down Shirts Long-Sleeve Denim Work Shirt
Woolly Clothing Men’s Merino Wool Button Up – Wicking Breathable Anti-Odor
To Ascot Or Not Ascot
That is the question, isn’t it. An ascot tie is a great way to turn a dull outfit into a sophisticated look with very little effort.
The thing with ascots is that a lot of people see the upscale neckbands as overdressing. You’ll have to decide if that’s the statement you’re trying to make.
If you’re an ascot kind of guy, I suggest you go for it. Here are some killer ascots from Amazon you might like:
Epoint Men’s Fashion Classic Paisley Cravat Silk Ascot
Colorful Luxury Ascot
Men’s Cravat Self Tie Paisley Jacquard Woven Luxury Ascot
I know you’ve heard this before, but the first thing a woman notices is your shoes. It’s true.
Shoes tell a woman that the care a man puts into maintaining his farthest extremity shows how he will value what’s closest to him. Great pair of shoes = a careful man who knows the importance of maintenance.
Best Men’s Shoes To Go Out In
Of course, not any kinds of shoes will do. You want to strike a balance between comfort and casual sophistication. Here are some of the best shoes to consider:
Cole Haan Men’s Grandpro Boat Shoe
Kenneth Cole REACTION Men’s Punchual Slip On
Stacy Adams Men’s Dickinson Cap-Toe Lace-up Oxford
Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Men’s Buzzer Oxford Boot
Final Word
When it comes to men’s style, it really comes down to how you feel. The clothes you need should be an accurate representation of what someone will experience when they interact with you.
The pros for dressing up include the fact that it’s often what our best selves look like. The cons with dressing up include the high prices.
Whatever you buy or however you choose to dress, remember, a smile is the best garment of all.
Shopping for men’s suits? Here is what a sharp winter coat looks like.
-
A high-quality, natural-looking wig closely resembles real hair, making it nearly indistinguishable from your own. Whether it’s made of human hair or high-quality synthetic fibers, the texture, movement, and shine can give you a very authentic look.
This article will show you some of the best natural-looking wigs you can buy online.
What Are The Most Natural-Looking Wigs?
For wigs with the most natural look, opt for human hair rather than the synthetic variety. And make sure it’s a good brand. While synthetic wigs may be more durable, nothing beats the organic and real look of natural hairpieces.
Natural hair has some characteristics that make it a top choice: Bounce and the way it blows in the wind and hangs off the head are easy clues as to a wig’s authenticity.
What Is The Most Realistic Wig You Can Buy?
There are many realistic wig brands that specialize in realistic-looking hairpieces. What they all have in common is that they typically use lace front, hand-tied hair that comes from India, Asia or Europe and is 100% real.
Here Are The Best-Natural Looking Wigs For Sale
Glueless Human Hair Pre-Plucked Deep Part Lace Frontal
Straight Lace Front Pre-Plucked Human Hair Wig
Human Hair Lace Front Wigs Transparent Glueless Brazilian Virgin Human Hair
Human Hair 180 density HD Transparent Lace Frontal Wig
Kreesi 360 Lace Frontal Wigs Body Hair Glueless 150% Density
Body Wave Lace Front Wigs Glueless Silky Human Hair
Deep Wave 13×6 Transparent Lace Front Pre Plucked Natural Hair
13×6 Kinky Curly Lace Front Wigs for Women 12A Brazilian Human Hair
Final Word
Natural-looking hair boosts confidence: Wearing a wig that looks like natural hair can boost your confidence, especially if you’re concerned about hair thinning or loss.
Many natural-looking wigs, especially human hair wigs, allow for heat styling with tools like curling irons and flat irons, giving you flexibility to change your look.
Wigs come in various lengths, textures, and colors, allowing you to try new hairstyles without committing to a haircut or color change.
-
If you’re traveling through the busiest airport in the world, Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson International Airport, you’d better be prepared for long lines. The airport is known for notoriously long wait times due to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints being backed up with travelers.
How Long Does It Take To Get Through TSA At Atlanta’s Airport?
AM Times Time Taken PM Times 8 am – 9 am 16 Minutes 8 pm- – 9 pm 9 am – 10 am 16 Minutes 9 pm – 10 pm 10 am – 11 am 5 Minutes 10 pm – 11 pm 11 am – 12 pm 23 Minutes 11 pm – 12 am Annual Passenger Traffic:
- Pre-COVID-19: In 2019, over 110 million passengers passed through Atlanta’s airport, making it the busiest airport globally in terms of both passenger numbers and total flights.
- Pandemic Impact: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, passenger traffic dropped significantly, with around 42 million passengers.
- Recovery: In 2021, passenger numbers began to recover, with approximately 75 million passengers.
- Recent Years: By 2022, ATL handled around 93.7 million passengers, continuing its recovery from the pandemic and retaining its status as one of the world’s busiest airports.
- In 2023, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport recorded approximately 104.7 million passengers, maintaining its position as the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic.
How To Speed Through TSA Checkpoints at the Airport
Getting through TSA quickly at the airport can save time and reduce stress. Here are some strategies to help you expedite the security screening process:
1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
- TSA PreCheck: This program allows you to use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which often have shorter lines and require less hassle (you don’t need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets). The enrollment process includes a background check and in-person interview. Once approved, it’s valid for five years.
- Cost: $78 for a 5-year membership.
- Global Entry: If you travel internationally often, consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits as well as expedited customs processing when entering the U.S.
- Cost: $120 for a 5-year membership.
2. Use CLEAR
- CLEAR: CLEAR is a private service that allows you to bypass the ID check lines by verifying your identity using biometric data (fingerprints and eye scans). You’ll still need to go through physical screening, but it can dramatically shorten your wait time before the screening process.
- Cost: $189 annually (discounts may be available for certain credit cards or frequent flyer programs).
- Tip: CLEAR + TSA PreCheck is one of the fastest combinations to get through security.
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
- Early Mornings or Late Nights: Airports are generally less crowded early in the morning or late at night, making security lines shorter.
- Avoid Peak Days: Busy travel days, such as Fridays, Sundays, and holidays, tend to have longer wait times. Traveling on midweek days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) can be less hectic.
4. Check Wait Times in Advance
- Use the MyTSA app or websites like FlightAware to check real-time security wait times at your airport. Some airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have their own apps that provide wait times for TSA security checkpoints.
5. Be Prepared for Screening
- Pack Smart: Place your liquids, electronics, and other items that need to be screened separately in easily accessible parts of your carry-on to avoid digging through your bag in line.
- Liquids: Follow the 3-1-1 rule (3.4-ounce containers in a 1-quart bag per person).
- Electronics: Remove larger electronics like laptops from your bag unless you’re in TSA PreCheck.
- Dress for Efficiency: Wear slip-on shoes and avoid metal objects like large belt buckles or jewelry. Place these items in your carry-on until after you pass through screening.
- ID and Boarding Pass: Have your ID and boarding pass (or mobile boarding pass) ready before reaching the checkpoint to keep things moving smoothly.
Final Word
Travel wait times in Atlanta will likely continue to trend upwards as global travel demand increases. Hartsfield-Jackson remains a crucial hub for domestic and international flights, especially given its role as a major connecting point for Delta Air Lines.
-
Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida’s west coast as tens of thousands of people flee north into Georgia. If you’re one of those evacuees, it’s no doubt you need resources.
This article will show you some free resources you can take advantage of in Georgia in light of the storm.
For Floridians evacuating Hurricane Milton, there are several free resources available in Georgia:
Shelters
Multiple Georgia state parks are offering shelter options for families fleeing the storm. These parks are specifically prepared to accommodate evacuees.
Here are some shelters available in South Georgia for Hurricane Milton evacuees:
1. Georgia State Parks: Various state parks in Georgia are open to evacuees. It’s recommended to check the availability and specific locations through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
2. Atlanta Motor Speedway: This facility has opened its grounds for evacuees, providing space for camping and sheltering.
3. Local Emergency Shelters: Various emergency shelters operated by the city and county authorities are prepared to assist evacuees. It’s recommended to check with the Atlanta City Government’s official website or contact local emergency management for specific locations.
U-Haul Free Storage
U-Haul has extended an offer for free self-storage, which can be particularly helpful for those needing to store belongings temporarily while evacuating.
Local Assistance
Check local county and city websites in Georgia for additional resources such as food assistance, safe places to stay, or any community programs designed to help evacuees.
FEMA Resources
Visit FEMA.gov for information on disaster assistance and resources available to those affected by the hurricane. For up-to-date information and resources, it’s essential to stay connected to local news outlets and official government announcements.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com: -
Saving money via travel is easier than you think. The key is to find cheap flights to destinations that you really want to go to. With some strategy and good fortune, it’s not as hard as it sounds.
In this article, we’ll go over some effective ways to find low-cost airfare.
Book These Cheap Fares From Atlanta, Georgia
Cheap fares are in the order of the day right now for Southwest and a few other airlines.
The good thing about Southwest flights are that you get two major perks:
- No change fees
- 2 free checked bags
Flights From Atlanta: New Orleans, NY, LA For Cheap
If you’re flying out of Hartsfield, here are some cheap flights you might not want to pass up. These are current as of October 2024.
From Atlanta Nonstop Airfare Starting From To Austin, TX Yes $99 To Baltimore / Washington, D.C. Yes $79 Chicago (Midway) Yes $79 Los Angeles Yes $99 New Orleans Yes $69 New York (LaGuardia) Yes $99 Oakland, CA Yes $99 San Diego Yes $99 Tampa Yes $49 Philadelphia Yes $79 See other dates on Southwest’s nationwide sale HERE.
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.
Cheap Frontier Fares From Atlanta
Frontier Airlines is also running a sale out of Atlanta. Some one-way flights as as cheap as $39 (for Den members) and $49 (non-Den members). If you’re interested in flying Frontier, see the latest cheap fares here.
Frontier Airlines’ Year-Round Subscription
Frontier Airlines’ all-you-can-fly subscription plan allows you to pay one fee for unlimited flights within the year. The price of the Go Wild! Plan is now $799 for the first year and will auto-renew for $1,999 in the second year unless you cancel.
Needless to say, you can save a lot of money if you plan to fly a lot in the coming year. Book now though because Frontier just may raise the prices!
Before Your Trip…
Do You have a Travel Bag That Works?
There are good travel bags and there are bag travel bags. You’ll want one that fits the size of carry-on and checked bags.
Buy
Here are some other travel bags with high reviews:
- Women’s Pink Weekender Travel Bag
- Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag
- Samsonite Checked Medium Bag
- Puma Men’s Contender Duffle Bag
- Rockland 19 inch Tote Bag
Final Word
Know the best times to book cheap flights. What we’re seeing now from Southwest is just a preview. Airfare prices are about to drop as more airlines battle for your vacation dollars.
Cheap flights in and out of Atlanta, Georgia, used to be as rare as a unicorn, but that’s not been the case of late. The major airlines have advertised some affordable low fares over the past couple weeks. All you have to do to take advantage is search for cheap fares.
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. If you’re a Southwest fan, here’s how to save money with their Low Fare Calendar. There are some rare sales going on right now in the airline industry. If you’re traveling out or into Atlanta, these cheap flights are hard to pass up. More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
- How not to get kicked off a Delta flight
- How to get a cheap flight out of Hartsfield Airport
- Delta is hiring 1,000 flight attendants
Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
-
One of the heroes of the Falcons overtime win against the Tampa Bay Bucs was backup receiver KhaDarel Hodge. You probably don’t know much about him.
After a thrilling 36-30 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football, fans know exactly who he was. His 45-yard catch-and-run touchdown in overtime was the difference.
KhaDarel honed his football skills in small town Texas. After high school, he attended Hinds Community College, where he transitioned to wide receiver, for one season before joining the squad at a small HBCU in Texas, Prairie View A&M University.
He then went undrafted in 2018. He caught on with the practice squads for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions before signing with the Falcons in 2022.
KhaDarel Hodge finally got his star turn Thursday night against the Bucs. Here’s what he had to say after the game.
Here are some key details about him:
- Born: January 3, 1995, in D’Lo, Mississippi
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 208 lbs
- College: Prairie View A&M University
- NFL Career: He went undrafted in 2018 and was initially signed by the Los Angeles Rams.
Hodge has proved to be a pretty interesting guy away from the field. He’s active on Instagram, where he shares his humorous side.
Throughout his career, he has also played for the Cleveland Browns before joining the Falcons in 2022. As of now, Hodge has appeared in multiple games and has made significant contributions to his teams over the years.
Final Word
The Falcons schedule is shaping up favorably. Can they make the playoffs? Stay tuned.