-
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has requested a trial date of Monday, August 5, 2024, for former President Donald Trump.
The document, unveiled on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, shows that Willis is not keen on avoiding having a trial in the middle of the 2024 elections, which many critics see as an attempt to derail a second Trump presidency.
Here is a copy of the document from Fulton County:
Willis had previously sought a March 2024 trial for Trump and his co-defendants but now that other states have filed cases against the former president, she has had to adjust to allow those proceedings to take place.
Since announcing the indictments in August, Willis has been the target of racist threats and verbal attacks.
In early September, Willis wrote a scathing letter to Ohio Congress Jim Jordan, a Republican that has attempted to derail her investigation.
-
if you’re visiting Atlanta soon or just want to take in some Martin Luther King Jr.-related history on Auburn Avenue, you’d better hurry. The birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is set to be close for up to two years due to renovations, according to the National Park Service (NPS).
The home, a Queen Anne style structure, is set to close to the public on Nov. 27, 2023, the NPS said in a press release.
Some of the work that needs to be done on the home includes interior wall replacement, adding a crawlspace, exterior painting, driveway, window and door repairs and more.
The NPS bought the King home in December 2018 and has been charged with its upkeep ever since.
How Touring The MLK Birth Home Works
The park ranger-led tour is free and lasts approximately 30 minutes during which time you will learn about the life of a young MLK.
The home is typically open for tours on a daily basis, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day, with the first tour at 10:00 am and the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Tours are limited to 15 people.
Here is some history on the MLK birth home that some may not know.
What Was MLK’s Birth Home Built?
The MLK birth home was built in 1895 by a white family. In 1909, the two-story frame was bought by the Rev. Adam Daniel Williams, who was pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. Williams paid $3,500.
The Rev. Williams lived in the home with his wife Jennie Celeste and their 6-year-old daughter Alberta Christine.
On November 25, 1926, Christine wed Michael Luther King at her father’s church. The couple would move into Christine’s parents’ home.
Over time the Kings would have three children born in the home, Willie Christine, Michael Jr. (later known as Martin Luther King, Jr.), and Alfred Daniel.
In 1968, MLK Ir. would be assassinated outside a Memphis hotel. His mother Alberta would be killed years after her son.
-
Zahara Jolie-Pitt is officially a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, thanks to crossing over at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia.
A video of the Greek ritual went viral of social media this week. Eighteen-year-old Zahara is in the second year of her college career in Atlanta.
She is the daughter of actress Angelina Jolie and actor Brad Pitt, who has supported her from afar after the couple’s marriage ended several years ago.
ounded in 1881, Spelman College is a leading liberal arts college widely recognized as the global leader in the education of women of African descent.
Located in Atlanta, the College’s picturesque campus is home to 2,100 students. Spelman is the country’s leading producer of Black women who complete PhDs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Recent initiatives include a designation by the Department of Defense as a Center of Excellence for Minority Women in STEM, a Gender and Sexuality Studies Institute, the first endowed queer studies chair at an HBCU, and a program to increase the number of Black women PhDs in economics.
New majors have been added, including documentary filmmaking and photography, and collaborations have been established with MIT’s Media Lab, the Broad Institute and the Army Research Lab for artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Are you trying to become more financially literate? Check out Money Mondays at AtlantaFi.com, where we’ll share strategies to save and make cash.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.
Read more:
-
The Atlanta Braves has landed a homerun of sorts for next year: The Braves have been tapped to host the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
If you watch Braves games, you know that this is a big deal.
Commissioner Rob Manfred announced Thursday ,Nov. 16, 2023, that big game and the accompanying All-Star Week events have been awarded to the Braves, the third time Atlanta will host the events.
“I commend Terry McGuirk, Derek Schiller, the entire Braves organization and the Atlanta Sports Council for leading this effort,” Manfred said. “As a model of success on and off the field, the Braves deserve to host the All-Star Game. Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta will provide fans a world-class experience in 2025. We look forward to working with the Braves and local leaders to deliver a memorable All-Star Week that brings people together and benefits the community in many ways.”
Next year’s All-Star festivities will take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, while the 2026 event will be in Philadelphia at Citizens Bank Park in honor of the 250th anniversary of American independence, 50 years after Veterans Stadium hosted the All-Star Game in the year of the United States’ bicentennial.
The 2025 All-Star Game will be the 95th Midsummer Classic, the first held in Atlanta since 2000, when Derek Jeter earned Most Valuable Player honors at Turner Field. The city’s first All-Star Game took place in 1972 at Atlanta Stadium, highlighted by Hank Aaron’s two-run home run that helped pace an NL victory.
Where Will the 2025 MLB All-Star Game Be Played?
The 2025 MLB All-Star Game will be played at Truist Park, the home of the Braves. The address of the ball park is 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339. Here’s a map to help you find it.
“We are thrilled that Major League Baseball has awarded the Atlanta Braves the 2025 All-Star Game,” said McGuirk, the Braves’ chairman. “Time and time again, Atlanta has proven to be a world-class destination for the most exciting entertainment and sporting events. I am excited that baseball fans will have the opportunity to experience Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta along with all this area has to offer. Over the coming months, we look forward to working alongside MLB to create memorable experiences that will showcase and support our community.”
Since Truist Park opened in 2017, the Braves have enjoyed a long run of regular-season and postseason success, providing multiple opportunities for fans to enjoy the facility and The Battery Atlanta, a sports and entertainment complex located next to the ballpark.
When they won the World Series in 2021, the Braves designated Truist Park as the final stop of their parade, holding a rally at the facility in front of thousands of fans.
“It’s exciting to see what the Braves have built and it should be celebrated,” said CC Sabathia, who serves as a special assistant to the Commissioner. “They are leading the way in baseball culture, fully embracing all of Atlanta’s music and food scenes.”
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
-
The movie studios and the actors union, SAG-AFRA have reached an tentative deal that will bring the sides together once again.
The deal was announced late Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, by the actors union, which has been picketing for more than four months.
Hollywood Strike Comes To An End
“In a unanimous vote this afternoon, The SAG-AFTRA TV/Theatrical Committee approved a tentative agreement with the AMPTP bringing an end to the 118 day strike,” the union said in a statement. “The strike officially ends at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, November 9.”
The union’s board still has to ratify the agreement, which adds several benefits for actors including:
- Pay raise
- Increase in residuals for shows streamed online
- Added contributions to union health care plans
- Added contributions to union pension plans
New rules were also included that govern the use of actors’ likenesses with artificial intelligence, a major sticking point of negotiations.
The settlement comes more than five weeks after the screenwriters reached a deal with the studios.
The development means that Atlanta casting calls and movie/TV productions may finally increase soon.
The strike was contentious until the very end, with many criticizing the recent comments of filmmaker Tyler Perry, who said that he understands both sides.
“Georgia is a right to work state, but I closed the doors to stand in solidarity with SAG,” Perry said. “But in understanding the working actor, I paid Cicely Tyson $1 million for one day of work … I paid Taraji P. Henson talks about me paying her $500,000 to raise her quotes.”
Tyler went on to say that, “It’s really important to know when we have won. This is only a three-year deal so in three years, we’ll be negotiating again.”
He comments were construed as saying that the union should take what the studios are offering “for now” and to see what they can do after the deal expires.
Earlier this fall, the Writers Guild announced that it has reached a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
Both sides finalized the deal late Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023.
“WGA has reached a tentative agreement with the AMPTP,” the guild said in statement “This was made possible by the enduring solidarity of WGA members and extraordinary support of our union siblings who joined us on the picket lines for over 146 days.”
-
The festivals just don’t stop in Atlanta, Georgia. This weekend, do yourself a favor and check out the Atlanta Fall Wine Festival.
It’s one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival is happening in Old Fourth Ward just across the street from Ponce City Market (whoohoo!) and it runs from1 pm-5 pm.
The festival will also feature over 100 different wines, beers and ciders to sample from Atlanta, the Southeast, and all over America. And of course, live music will be provided by a fire DJ!
Atlanta Fine Wine Festival: Everything You Need To Know
This year’s Atlanta Fall Wine Festival promises to be a good one. It is a 21 and up event with no kids, babies or pets allowed. And of course, no outside food or beverages.
The festival will commence no matter if it’s rain or shine. Chairs, blankets, and small bags are okay.
When Is The Atlanta Winter Wine Festival?
The festival is set for the following date and time:
Date & Time:
Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at 1:00 EDT to 5:00 EDT
Location:
Historic Fourth Ward Park 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA
How Much Are Tickets?
Festival Tickets are $55 in advance and $65 at the door unless its sold out.
If you’re wondering what your ticket includes, it comes with a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. Get the details.
Your ticket price includes a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. There will not be any Designated Driver tickets.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival isn’t the only thing going on these days in Atlanta. Check out the best things to do in Atlanta.
Final Word
Atlanta has just about everything you need for a fun time in a big-city. If you love to laugh, you should check out the best comedy clubs in Atlanta.
For those who feel like dancing or vibing to some music, Atlanta’s got some of the best clubs in the South.
Want to get out of the house during the day? Why not get some shopping in the city by patronizing local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage and more.
-
Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith is no longer playing a game of “wait and see” when it comes to who will start at quarterback on Sunday. Smith said on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, that Taylor Heinicke will start for the second week in a row.
Atlanta’s schedule has been called one of the easiest in the NFL, but its record (4-5) doesn’t match that. The Falcons play the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, at 4:05 p.m. ET.
Heinicke Will Start Against Arizona
Atlanta lost a nail biter last week to the Minnesota Vikings 31-28 with both teams starting new quarterbacks on the season.
The Falcons’ Heinicke threw for 268 yards with a touchdown and an interception vs. Josh Dobbs who passed for 158, including the game winner with under a minute left.
Still, Smith was evidently impressed enough with Heinicke that he’s confident that he can get Atlanta a much-needed win.
“”You don’t want to play with a two-quarterback system and whatnot. But I think just kind of where we’re at, and everything that’s going on, the bye week will be a good time to assess,” Smith said, according to the Atlanta Falcons website. “I certainly don’t plan on it being week-to-week after that. But we need to do everything we can to go get this win out in Arizona.”
Smith has been criticized for not getting the bill to playmakers like running back Tyler Allgeier, who Smith says is “one of the best goal line and short-yardage backs in the league.”
Atlanta’s breakout back Bijan Robinson wasn’t feeling well last game. He reportedly was coping told with a bad headache. Smith chose not to test him.
Will Desmond Ridder Return?
Ridder suffered a concussion two weeks ago but was cleared to go back in the game, which has puzzled fans who want yo see him play.
Smith said he has just been following the advice from the team’s doctors who hav Ed been examining Ridder.
“I’m not ever going to claim to be a medical expert,” he said.
Smith has purportedly taken umbrage to the social media posts from former Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, who has been breaking down lapses in the Falcons protection schemes and plays.
“I don’t care. I really don’t. Everybody has their opinions,” Smith said according to
https://www.outkick.com/retired-qb-kurt-warner-sacked-by-falcons-coach-arthur-smith-over-hot-takes/. “He’s welcome to come down here to our meetings. I would actually embrace that. I’m sure he gets paid a lot of money. I could give a rat’s… whatever. Unless you’re in the building with our guys and know what is asked of them and know what is really going on.”
Want more sports content? Read why Atlanta is a sports paradise.
-
Hiring a contractor is a crucial part of any building or remodeling project you plan to start at your home. When I remodeled my bathroom, I had to make sure I hired the right person because I was trying to save money.
This article will show you how to hire a contractor in Atlanta.
Hiring a contractor for a home improvement or construction project is an important decision. It’s also essential to set a budget and stick to it, while allowing for a contingency fund to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process.
Define Your Project
Before you can hire someone to come to your home, you need to have a clearly defined idea of what you want accomplished.
Clearly define the scope of your project. Understand what work you want to be done, the materials you prefer, and any specific design or functionality requirements. This will be essential when communicating with potential contractors.
Do Your Research
Don’t just hire the first contractor you find online. Interview multiple contractors to find the best one that is available and works for you.
- Contact several contractors to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, previous projects, and whether they have worked on similar projects.
- Request references and follow up with those references to gauge the contractor’s reliability and work quality.
Get Recommendations From People You Know
Some associate of yours has likely gotten some renovation work done before. You just have to solicit them for advice and recommendations.
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who have had similar work done. Personal recommendations are valuable.
- Online Searches: Use online resources, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau to find contractors in your area.
- Trade Associations and Unions: Check with local trade associations, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), for reputable contractors.
Here are some sites you need to check to find contractors:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Before You Hire a Contractor
Always take the extra time it takes to check for licensing and insurance.
Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Request a copy of their insurance certificates to ensure they have liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
- Get Detailed Quotes:
- Ask for written estimates from the contractors you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, including labor, materials, and a timeline for the project.
- Beware of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or work quality.
- Check for Permits and Contracts:
- Ensure the contractor will obtain any necessary permits for the project. It’s essential that they comply with local building codes.
- Sign a detailed contract that includes project specifics, payment schedule, start and completion dates, and warranties. Read and understand the contract before signing.
Agree On a Payment Schedule
Everyone likes to know when they’re getting paid, so it would be a mutual benefit to discuss a payment schedule.
You’ll want to avoid paying the full cost upfront. A common practice is to make an initial down payment, with the remaining payments scheduled based on project milestones.
Also, never make the final payment until you are satisfied with the completed work.
Continually Give Your Opinion
To stay on the same page, always strive to maintain open and clear communication with the contractor throughout the project. Regular updates and addressing any concerns promptly are crucial.
- Document Everything:
- Keep records of all documents, including contracts, receipts, and communications with the contractor. These can be important in case of disputes or issues.
Make a Final Inspection
The contractor expects you to give the final go-ahead on the project, so don’t be shy about having an opinion on even the smallest things.
Once the work is completed, do a final inspection to ensure that everything is up to your satisfaction. Address any issues promptly.
- Review and Feedback: Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the contractor’s performance, as this can help others in the future.
No matter if you have an expensive home or an average home, remember that choosing the right contractor is essential for the success of your project.
Final Word
You’re spending your own money, so make sure your contractor and yourself are on the same page at all times.
Remember to get a more accurate estimate for your specific bathroom remodel, it’s a good idea to consult with local contractors and obtain multiple quotes. The complexity of the project and your location will have a significant impact on the final cost.
Take your time, do your due diligence, and don’t rush into a decision. Hiring a reputable and qualified contractor can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
-
Mercedes-Benz USA recently announced a partnership with lifestyle golf brand Eastside Golf to increase access and opportunities to play, learn and grow the sport.
The two entities will collaborate on the “Vehicles for Change” program to create unique activations to build a more inclusive community around the game, and advance golf beyond traditionally exclusive environments.
These initiatives will create accessible touchpoints to broader audiences and attract a new generation of diverse golf professionals and fans.
“At Mercedes-Benz, we are focused on innovation and transformation to create a better future. We are committed to community reinvestment that helps generate meaningful change and empower the next generation of leaders through increased access and education. Our partnership with Eastside Golf reflects this mission and aligns with our long-standing support of golf programs around the globe. Together, we’re helping to remove barriers and open doors to a game that is not only fun, but teaches valuable life lessons about humility, hard work, persistence and dedication.”
Monique Harrison, Head of Brand Marketing at Mercedes-Benz USAThe partnership kicked off in September 2023 at the Eastside Golf Invitational at The Grand Golf Club at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego. MBUSA executives joined Eastside Golf Founders, Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper, to discuss their shared goal of increasing equitable access to the sport. The partnership will celebrate the history of the game while bringing authenticity and culture to the golf course. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the golf team from Morehouse College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Atlanta.
“Eastside Golf was created to improve the experience and entry points for new golfers, young athletes and emerging professionals in the sport. We want to show people that they can compete or simply enjoy the game while remaining true to themselves, unapologetically. Our mission is to bring more diversity into every aspect of golf, from playing professionally and running golf courses, to media, marketing and beyond. This partnership with Mercedes-Benz is bringing us another step closer to our goals.”
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
-
Could this be a new era for the Atlanta Falcons?
In their runup to the Minnesota Vikings game, Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith named third-string quarterback Taylor Heinicke as the starter.
Will Desmond Ridder Get His Job Back?
Only time will tell if this is a temporary move or one that has been made to save the season at the halfway mark. . You can buy season tickets to Falcons home games now.
Smith has been vocal about the change, saying that Ridder’s performance wasn’t the reason for the switch. But it’s no secret that the difference with Heinicke behind center was obvious:
- Ridder: 8/12 for 71 yards, 0 TD, 5 sacks, 1 fumble lost
- Heinicke: 12/21 for 175, 1 TD, no turnovers
Smith is no stranger to quarterback changes. Twelve games into the 2022 season, Smith pulled quarterback Marcus Mariota and went with rookie Marcus Mariota for the final four games of the season.
This time, Heinicke has gotten the nod after Ridder suffered a concussion in the first half against the Tennessee Titans in the Falcons’ 28-23 loss last week.
Who Is Taylor Heinicke?
Heinicke played college football at Old Dominion and signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Two years later he was acquired by the Houston Texans before a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers.
In 2020, he landed with the Washington Commanders and saw significant playing time in 2021 and 2022 when he threw 20 touchdowns and 12 touchdowns respectively.
He signed with Atlanta as a third-string quarterback but has been thrust into the starting spot due to Ridder’s injury.
Does this mean that the Falcons have a quarterback controversy. Yes, it does. But that doesn’t mean it will last for long. If Heinicke does well, it will be hard for Smith to pull him. At the same time, if Heinicke stinks it up, Smith already has a narrative (injury) that can seamlessly put Ridder back behind center.
As long as the Falcons win, we’ll be OK with however is the signal caller.
