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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Atlanta movie mogul Tyler Perry is moving quickly to reopen his production studio, which like the rest of the world, has been shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic. He released released a reopening plan for Tyler Perry Studios operations, according to The Hollywood Reporter (THR).
The 60-page document, obtained and published by THR, outlines in meticulous steps all the health measures that crew, actors, extras and support staff need to do to reduce the possibility of getting infected with COVID-19.
The document says that Tyler Perry Studios will have a number of medical consultants at their disposal, including Atlanta physician and CNN personality Dr. Sanjay Gupta, among others.
Here are some of the health protocols that Tyler Perry Studios will have in place when shooting begins in June 2020.
- Before Travel To Atlanta: Cast will be tested using PCR/Nasal-Lab Testing (97% accuracy test) in their hometown and asked to self-isolate for the remaining time
before their travel date. - Arrival in Atlanta: Upon arrival in Atlanta, Cast will proceed to the awaiting People Mover Shuttles (25 seaters – however – maximum of 10 people per van). Social distancing and face mask guidelines will continue to be required. Drivers will be tested prior to pick up.
The guidelines are all part of a “Quarantine Bubble,” a term defined in the document as the ongoing operation of sanitizing studio operations and making sure people are safe.
It also lay out protocols if someone is sick.
If someone on set tests positive or has a fever above 100.4 they are immediately removed from the premises for “medical consult.”
Here’s a video of the whole experience that Perry shared:
Perry is eager to resume shooting to satisfy his contract with BET and their streaming service BET Plus. Like most Georgia businesses, he is taking a cautious approach to reopening during the pandemic.
Last fall, Perry’s Atlanta studio was celebrated across the nation in an epic debut that attracted A list celebrities.
Here’s what Perry posted about wrapping filming and production of Sistas in the quarantine bubble.
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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
- Before Travel To Atlanta: Cast will be tested using PCR/Nasal-Lab Testing (97% accuracy test) in their hometown and asked to self-isolate for the remaining time
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Atlanta’s Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms says that Georgia’s largest city is close to lifting restrictions based on statistical data pegged to the deaths and infections from the coronavirus pandemic.
Lance Bottoms has been a vocal critics of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s re-opening of the state, which took place more than three weeks ago.
“Right now, based on our analysis of the data that we have from the state we are on a 10-day decline,” she told CNN. “We need four more days to be on that 14-day decline that we have been awaiting.”
“Things are not as bad as I thought yet and I am very hopeful that they continue that way, but as we know, with COVID-19 there is often a lag in infections and when people begin to actually show symptoms and get sick.”
Lance Bottoms admits that the COVID-19 case count has surprised her as the numbers seem to have stabilized rather than skyrocketed despite huge crowds at some events.
“Right now it appears that we’re doing better as a state I will keep watching and waiting,” she says.
"It is extremely concerning to see what is happening across the globe. These numbers just remind us that nothing about this virus has changed." – Mayor @KeishaBottoms on @WHO's latest #COVID19 numbers. pic.twitter.com/1uX6AhqhsH
— City of Atlanta, GA (@CityofAtlanta) May 21, 2020
But Georgia is not out of the clear, especially when it comes to controversy.
It was revealed recently that the state’s health department, which keeps an official count of COVID-19 cases and deaths, had some bad numbers in its graphics.
The bar graphs showed a gradual decline in cases, but after further scrutiny, it was learned that the days were put out of order, on at least three occasions.
Atlanta has also become the epicenter of a tug-of-war between the White House and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, which is based here.
The CDC’s quiet release of reopening guidelines has largely been ignored by the nation’s governors.
Georgia Restaurants, Other Business Mixed On Reopening
Some restaurants have refused to re-open, citing that not enough time has passed. And some people have began protesting on city streets.
Despite the flip, Kemp says he’s more worried about his state’s businesses than any flak from others.
“I got some people protesting because I took this step, and I got others protesting me because they think I didn’t go far enough.”
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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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Ready for a wild time? Zoo Atlanta has re-opened its doors amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Atlanta institution has implemented several sanitation and health protocols to keep visitors safe.
Some safety measures that Zoo Atlanta has instituted include:
- Timed ticketing system
- No cash
- Face masks strongly encouraged (all staff will have them on)
- Rides, playgrounds and Treetop Trail are temporarily closed
- Food and gifts will be sold from outdoor kiosks
- All lines and traffic flow at the zoo will be a one-way experience that reinforces social distancing guidelines at all locations where it is feasible.
- Visuals at some animal habitats will suggest where guests should stand to watch the animals. Pathway guides will be on hand to assist guests and encourage social distancing
Want to know the ins and outs about Atlanta’s zoo? Here are 7 Things To Know About Zoo Atlanta.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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Freaknik is back in Atlanta for 2020, but this time it is being called Freakworld, a three-day event in southwest Atlanta. It was originally planned for the summer but due to the coronavirus pandemic, the date has been moved back.
If you want to go to Freaknik in Atlanta, here’s everything you need to know about it.
Let’s break down all of them so that you know which Freaknik to attend this year:
2nd Annual Freaknik Festival 2020 Presents Freak World
Freakworld 2020 is taking place at the Morris Brown College, 643 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314.
Price: $17 a dayDate and Time: Friday, September 18, 2020, 1:00 PM to Sunday, September 20, 2020, 11:00 PM ET6 Freakworld Rules
- No re-entry
- No umbrellas
- No professional cameras, personal cameras only. No flash photography, video or removable lens cameras unless granted permission by the venue.
- No coolers and baskets are prohibited (in the case of lawn chairs, these may be rented at the venue.)
- No food and beverages may not be brought in. Concessions are for sale inside.
Learn more about Freakworld 2020 here.
Freaknik Silent Disco Party
Location: Sidebar is located at 79 Poplar St NW in Downtown AtlantaPrice: $20 at the door
Date and Time: Friday, July 10, 2020, 10:00 PM to 11:59 PM ET
Details: Celebrate with your friends? Birthday package includes: 10 Headsets, Cake, 1 Champagne Bottle, VIP Area & 3 DJs ($225.00) TEXT (678) 693-0889 *Blue Channel w/ DJ PSI- Soca, Reggae, Afro Beats *Red Channel w/ DJ Choo The Specializt- 90s, 2000s Hip Hop *Green Channel w/ DJ JD Capp- Trap, New School, Soul Music, Reggae $20 Door/$15 on Eventbrite
Freaknic 2020 In Stone Mountain
Location: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA 30083Date and Time: Saturday, April 11, 2020, 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Details: The original Freaknic moves to Stone Mountain. There will be over 20 concert performances, 200 amusement rides and games and a $100,000 giveaway in scholarship money and prizes.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
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. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit to a craft brewery in the city.
Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
- For a month’s view: The Official Atlanta Events Calendar
- For a more immediate look, check Things to do in Atlanta This Week
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The coronavirus pandemic has shut down small and large churches across the nation, including in Georgia, the heart of the Bible Belt. No state re-opening has been as controversial as Georgia’s.
Georgia churches are still allowed to have religious services but they must adhere to strict public health guidelines issued by the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and enforced by local officials.
Will Churches Be Allowed To Open In 2020?
Those health guidelines make up a trinity of basic hygiene measures, including:
- Social distancing
- Wearing masks, face coverings, gloves and other PPE
- Limiting gatherings of 10 or more people
One of the dilemmas for Georgia pastors and other religious leaders is how to accommodate the elderly, who typically make up a large portion of the contributions flowing into a given church.
Some preachers have thought about using a ticketing system to reward those ones with in-person services, but when those numbers get close to 10, things become much more dangerous.
Here’s When Georgia Can Re-Open Bars and Clubs
Still, others have stopped tuning into church altogether or accused the state of banning religious services, which is a constitutional issue.
“In-person services were never banned,” Gov. Brian Kemp tweeted in response to criticism over church closings. “We have encouraged — and continue to encourage — online and remote services.”
He added: “In-person services should always practice social distancing and work to implement sanitation procedures to keep congregations safe.”
As far whether Georgia churches will be allowed to open this year, much depends on the virus. As Georgia’s numbers go up and down, state officials will likely keep gatherings tamped down.
That means church leaders will have to get creative. Many are doing teleconferencing services and other video systems, which are likely to continue.
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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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If you have a video interview planned via Zoom or another videoconferencing system, you’re going to have to put your best foot forward to get the job. That means you’ll have to look the part and sound like it, too.
Video interviews are intimidating to many job candidates because of their unfamiliarity, but the key to it is feeling comfortable.
Video Interview: Everything You Need To Know
This article is going to show you how to ace a video interview so that you can get hired.
In This Article:
- How To Do Well On A Video Interview
- What Videoconferencing Services Should You Use?
- What Kind of Questions Are Raised In A Video Interview?
- What To Wear In A video Interview
- Video Interview Tips
How To Do Well On A Video Interview
The video interview is the newest way employers are fielding job candidates for their companies. The process is largely the same as an in-person interview only it’s done remotely.
To nail the interview, you want to come across confident and assured in your abilities and skills.
Of course, if you’ve made it to the interview stage, your awesome resume has done its part. Now it’s up to you to seal the deal.
What Videoconferencing Services Should You Use?
If you your would-be employer hasn’t recommended which videoconferencing service to use, perhaps you might want to suggest one you’re most comfortable with.
Some of the best videoconferencing services for interview include:
What Kind Of Questions Are Asked In A Video Interview?
Here are some popular questions and answers you’ll need to know so that you can handle this part of the video interview.
Question: Why do you want to work here?”
Answer: “I want to work here to explore new challenges that are important in my career development.” Go on to explain some positives about the company/position and ask them to expand on them.
Question: “Tell me a time when you were unsuccessful at work?”
Answer: “There were a few times when the results I received from my work were less than I expected.” Go to expand on how you turned a challenge into an opportunity.
Question: “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
Answer: “I see myself with a track record of successes that will continue to help the company’s stature as well as their bottom line.” You can use this to pivot to some successes you note about the company.
Question: “What skills would you bring to the job?”
Answer: “I bring X-amount of years of experience in [given profession].” Again, use this opportunity to shine a light on your resume as well as some things that you want them to know about you.
What To Wear In A Video Interview
Contrary to popular belief, you do need to wear clothes below the waist in a video interview. The reason is because not only do you want to look professional, but you want to feel like it.
Dress the part by having on a complete suit for your video interview. It will also help keep you in a professional mindset, which is crucial.
Video Interview Tips
The key to a successful video interview is to make sure you’re comfortable. Here are five tips to make the most of it:
- Set up your video in a secluded and quiet place in your home
- Make sure you have adequate lighting, but not too much light
- Check your internet connection for lags or interruptions
- Make sure your webcam shows clear and not grainy
- Dress professional and yes, wear pants
- Make sure the camera is centered on your face
- Ensure no distracting objects are in the background
Bottom Line
A video interview is one of the most convenient ways to get a job these days. Not only does it save you time and gas money, but it lets the employer process your position a lot quicker.
Because of the speedy process, you’ll be able to know if you got the job or not, in a short period of time. If you’ve followed the steps in our Video Interview Guide, let us know if you landed the job!
Metro Atlanta’s hot economy has slowed of late due to the COVID-19, but that’s OK. Check out our Coronavirus Resource Guide and find out how to make and save money.We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job. -
Delta Air Lines will temporarily cease operations in 10 metropolitan airports around the nation. The Atlanta-based carrier made the decision to “minimize their COVID-19 exposure risk” to its workers, the company says in a news article.
Delta Air Lines To No Longer Service These Airports
The changes are set to take effect on May 13, the airline says. The list of airports all have nearby airports that the company will continue flying to and from.
Delta has been hit especially hard by the coronavirus pandemic, which has crippled the world’s travel industry, including the airlines.
Here are the airports Delta will no longer fly into and out of:
Temporarily Suspended Airport Nearest Delta-Served Airport Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Oakland International Airport (OAK) San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Long Beach Airport (LGB) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) Logan International Airport (BOS) Westchester County Airport (HPN) LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Stewart International Airport (SWF) John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) Logan International Airport (BOS) Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) Norfolk International Airport (ORF) 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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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If you’re a travel head like many people, you are very eager to test the waters and book a flight right now. The problem is that there’s this coronavirus pandemic that has totally stopped travel.
But one thing it slowed down considerably (but not stopped) is air travel. There are some great airfares on sale and you may be wondering if you should book.
Here are some things you may want to consider before spending money on air travel.
Cheap Airfare
Yes, you’re going to be able to find cheap airfare during this pandemic, no question about it. The reason is because many airlines are hemorrhaging money.
That’s why you’ll see fares like Atlanta to Los Angeles for less than $200. As state manage the ebb and flow of COVID-19 outbreaks, you’ll see prices go up and down.
As to whether you should buy cheap fares right now, it’s totally up to you. If you’re comfortable with flying in and out of airports to destinations inside and out of the United States, it’s a person decision.
New Health Protocols
The airline industry is also overhauling the way it approaches sanitation amid this health crisis. That means you can expect a totally difference experience toward hygiene and bathroom cleaning procedures.
Many airlines are using electrostatic anti-microbial spray treatments and disinfectants, cleaning the planes between flights to make sure customers feel safe.
Another thing they’re doing is limiting the number of passengers onboard, and changing the boarding process to promote personal space.
Flight Destinations
You’ll also need to consider where you’re flying to more carefully. If you plan to visit a city or country that is a known coronavirus hotspot, you may want to think twice or alter your itinerary.
It’s true that some airlines have resumed flights to Europe, despite a travel ban, but that doesn’t mean you have to book.
Also, quarantine measures differ around the world. It’s very possible you may land and — based on someone on your flight — be forced to spend the first 14 days of your trip in self-isolation.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that you have the personal freedom to decide how you want to live your life. Of course, you’ll want to take into consideration your health and the welfare of others.
The best airfares and vacations in the world aren’t worth your ability to enjoy them.
If that means that you choose not to fly — or you alter your travel plans dramatically — certainly for the public good you may decide to do that.
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.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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The execution-style slaying of Ahmaud Arbery has startled Georgians and much of the nation even as they cope with the coronavirus pandemic.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigations announced that the father-son duo who shot him are in custody.
2 Men Arrested In Slaying Of Ahmaud Arbery
“On May 7th, 2020, the GBI arrested Gregory McMichael, age 64, and Travis McMichael, age 34, for the death of Ahmaud Arbery,” the GBI news release says. “They were both charged with murder and aggravated assault. The McMichaels were taken into custody and will be booked into the Glynn County Jail.”
Phot credit: GBI Earlier in the day, Gov. Brian Kemp weighed in, calling the death of Arbery “absolutely horrific.” Kemp expressed support for the GBI investigation as it seeks the truth.
Georgia Gov. Kemp: Ahmaud Arbery Slaying ‘Absolutely Horrific’
Cell phone video taken on February 23 shows Arbery of Brunswick jogging down a neighborhood street when he is confronted by two armed men, one of whom is seen in a truck.
Officials in Glynn County in South Georgia have been playing hot potato with the case, which was largely unknown until the video circulated on social media earlier this week.
Now justice is in the hands of a grand jury, which has to decide whether to file charges. The truth though is that during a pandemic, it is highly unlikely a grand jury will even be seated.
As public attention and anger mounts, GBI Director Vic Reynolds told reporters that he is putting three investigators on the case.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp says he reviewed the video of Ahmaud Arbery's death, calling it "absolutely horrific."
"I have full confidence in Vic Reynolds and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation… to find the truth." https://t.co/zOzQzOK0gK pic.twitter.com/Vnldldn3MB
— ABC News (@ABC) May 7, 2020
“Earlier this week I watched the video,” Kemp said, adding that “Georgians deserve the truth.”
For all two many, especially in the South, the visual of a black man running while two white men with guns follow in hot pursuit harkens back to a time when freedom meant different things to different people.
Arbery’s family is calling for the arrest of the two men, who are father and son.
Gregory and Travis McMichael have told authorities that they thought Arbery fit the description of a burglar who had been seen in the area recently.
Wanda Cooper Jones, told reporters her son was just jogging like he does every day.
“I saw my son come into the world,” Jones said, according to CBS News. “And seeing him leave the world, it’s not something that I’ll want to see ever.”
“These men were vigilantes, they were a posse and they performed a modern lynching in the middle of the day,” Lee Merritt, an attorney for Arbery’s mother, was quoted as saying.
On the video, you can see Travis McMichael struggle with Arbery for the gun before you hear a gunblast, then another one to the chest.
In the police report, McMichael reportedly says that Arbery “began to violently attack” him, leaving him no choice but to shoot.
The truth, when it comes out, may be an entirely different matter.
Meanwhile, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms posted on Twitter about the slaying, saying: “Honestly and selfishly, I didn’t want to watch the murder of #AhmaudArbery. I didn’t want to feel that nauseating churn of my stomach I get each time “it” happens. But that feeling doesn’t compare to the loss and sadness of his and too many other families. May justice be served.”
Also on social media, Atlanta music mogul Jermaine Dupri posed many of the questions about the case that everyone wants to know.
Among Dupri’s queries was “Who filmed this?” Listen to what he has to say:
@jermainedupri Jermaine Dupri Speaks On The Murder of Ahmaud Aubrey.
Justice For 🇺🇸Ahmaud Aubrey"🇺🇸
He Must Be Respected And Appreciated and His Family Compensated. 🇺🇸
And The People That Done This Hate Crime Must Be Arrested.#HR40#AhmaudAubrey pic.twitter.com/xWbtRa9tYH— Step Seven Justice SSJ (@stepseven7) May 7, 2020
Meanwihile, people around the nation planned to run for Arbery, who was an avid jogger. Activists and others used the hashtag #IRunwithAhmaud to show their support.
Americans Run With Ahmaud
They showed their support in the following cities:
From Detroit:
Today was brutal, but I ran my 2.23 miles (I know it says 2.24) for Ahmaud Arbery. Ahmaud would have turned 26 years old today. 🙏🏾 #RunWithMaud #IRunwithAhmaud #JusticeForAhmaudArbery pic.twitter.com/Gq2f56Wxnc
— Aya M. Waller-Bey, MPhil (@Aya__Marie) May 8, 2020
From Kentucky:
#IRunwithAhmaud Walked 2.23 miles in honor of Ahmaud Arbery and to express love and support for his parents and loved ones.
Lexington, KY pic.twitter.com/cjqqwCC0fn— Robert Antrobus (@antrobus_robert) May 8, 2020
From Tennessee:
Hailey and I went out this morning to #IRunwithAhmaud. Today would be his birthday and he was gunned down by Georgia racists who were not arrested until millions saw video of these murderers gun down a young man jogging in his neighborhood. Love & strength to his family. pic.twitter.com/yCxDK6gPhS
— #IRunwithMaud (@VoteGloriaJ) May 8, 2020
From Minnesota:
I ran 2.23+ miles tonight for Ahmaud Arbery whose life was cut short when he was shot & killed while going for a run on 2/23. Let us run & live life w/kindness, compassion & love for everyone, esp those who have been mistreated, hurt, misjudged, & discriminated. #IRunWithAhmaud pic.twitter.com/8g49PpWNY4
— Michael Benjamin, MSW, LICSW (@mbenjamin_msw) May 8, 2020
From Ohio:
I will not be afraid to run through my city, state, or country by myself with my head up at anytime of day. I tip my cap to all my black brothers this morning. With heavy hearts and deep thoughts WE PRESS ON. ✊🏾 … WE ALL PRESS ON! #irunwithahmaud #iwillruninmycountry pic.twitter.com/povzeVrj1f
— Micah A. Mills (@Coachm_m) May 7, 2020
The GBI says the investigations are all active and ongoing. If anyone has information related to these cases, please contact the GBI at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477).
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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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It’s almost back to business for Atlanta filmmaker Tyler Perry. His much-heralded Tyler Perry Studios is close to restarting production amid the coronavirus pandemic.
That means his partnership with BET, which has produced “The Oval,” and “Sistas,” may resume some time in the near future.
Tyler Perry Studios Close To Re-Opening In Atlanta
He recently got approval from the city of Atlanta to use additional housing on his 330-acre tract at Fort MacPherson, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Tyler Perry Studios will implement rigorous health protocols, including testing, for all those who are summoned back to work, the AJC reports.
It is expected that Perry will use the extra housing to keep crew and actors on the property throughout shooting and production.
Meanwhile, BET Plus, Perry’s streaming service with the black entertainment network, continues to roll out new episodes of new content.
Hey!! #SistasOnBET #TheOvalOnBET #Ruthless #TylerPerryBruh on @betplus pic.twitter.com/VUmOuVbAd4
— Tyler Perry (@tylerperry) May 6, 2020
A lot of people who either move to Atlanta or have been here for a while want to work with Tyler Perry Studios. If you’re one of them, check out our guide on how to get hired there.
How To Get A Job At Tyler Perry Studios
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. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links: