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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.”
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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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.
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Comcast recently announced that it will provide $110,000 in grants to two Atlanta nonprofits – Raising Expectations and Inspiredu – to support the launch of Connect 404, a Digital Navigator program.
Through Connect 404, the organizations are partnering to hire trusted community members (known as digital navigators) to help residents get connected to the internet and access digital skills training programs to advance digital equity for Georgians.
A recent research report by the National Skills Coalition, titled Closing the Digital Skills Divide, analyzed 43 million online job ads and found virtually all of today’s jobs require digital skills including those roles seeking limited education or work experience.
The report showed that those who qualify for jobs that require even one digital skill can earn an average of 23 percent more than those working in jobs requiring no digital skills — an increase of $8,000 per year for an individual full-time worker.
The findings also pointed to four key industries in Georgia that are seeking employees with the following digital skills:
- Finance and insurance: Mobile banking; information security; structured query language; nationwide mortgage licensing system
- Healthcare: Electronic medical records; radiologic technology
- Manufacturing: Enterprise resource planning software; robotics; computer numerical control; programmable logic controller
- Retail: Sales after service retail analytics and consumer goods software; robotics; credit card applications
“We are incredibly grateful to Comcast for their generous donation to our Connect 404 Digital Navigators program,” said Richard Hicks, CEO of Inspiredu. “Comcast has been a great partner in helping to bridge the digital divide here in Atlanta, and we are proud to support their mission.”
In addition to receiving digital navigation services, Atlanta residents who qualify may apply for the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides families with a $30 per month benefit ($75 per month on Tribal lands) toward their Internet bill. Comcast is making ACP credits available for all of the company’s Xfinity Internet speed tiers, including Internet Essentials.
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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ONE Musicfest is returning to Atlanta this fall. The annual festival has a packed musical lineup for its 2023 festival and it promises to rock the crowd.
The two-day music festival slated for Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29 at Piedmont Park in Atlanta will feature a who’s who among music greats.
The ONE Musicfest lineup so far is Bryson Tiller, Tems, Kodak Black and dozens more.
ONE Musicfest 2023 Music Lineup: Who Is Performing?
Here is a list of the artists set to perform at the 2022 One Musicfest:
- Bryson Tiller
- Tems
- Kodak Black
- Coi LeRay
- Lil Kim
- Key Glock
- The Dream
- Smino
- Chief Keef
- Fabolous
- Jadakiss
- Coca Jones
- Tink
- Boosie
- El DeBarge
- Durand Bernarr
- Danielle Ponder
- LiBianca
- Jozzy
- Ben Reilly
- oksurf
- Nelly
- KRS-One
- Killer Mike
- Eightball & MJG
- DJ Quick and more
Billed as one of the nation’s “Can’t Miss Festivals,” ONE Musicfest is in its 13th year with a first-ever weekend of high-energy performances and unique cultural experiences. More than 20,000 people attended three years ago before COVID. Even more people are expected this year.
How Much Does ONE Musicfest Cost?
ONE Musicfest has a tiered price plan. The prices below do not include taxes and fees.
- 2-day admission — $169
- 2-day VIP — $525
- 2-day platinum — $1095
- 2-day titanium — $6,536
How To Get Tickets
Get a 2-day pass. You can also purchase your tickets today at ONEMusicfest.com.
* Festival lineup is subject to change.
Before You Go
Before you go to One Musicfest or any festivals, you need to remember to prepare yourself for the outdoors. Remember to take:
- Your bug spray
- Blankets and foldable chairs (where applicable)
- Bottled water (if you can)
Want to see more Atlanta festivals? Check out our Atlanta Festival Guide.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis continues to secure the guilty pleas in her election case against President Donald Trump and 19 other co-defendants. On Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, Fulton County officials announced that Jenna Ellis, a former attorney for Trump, has agreed to plead guilty before trial.
What Did Jenna Ellis Plead Guilty To?
Ellis will plead guilty to one count of aiding and abetting false statements and writings.
As with all the co-defendants in the trial related to the 2020 election, Ellis was charged with violating the state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and soliciting the violation of oath by a public officer.
Although the particulars remain to be seen, Ellis’s guilty verdict likely means that she will be cooperating with Fulton prosecutors to build bigger and more substantial cases against Trump and Rudy Giuliani.
How Many Trump Co-Defendants Have Pleaded Guilty?
So far, four guilty pleas in the Fulton County election interference case.
- Scott Hall
- Sidney Powell
- Kenneth Chesebro
- Jenna Ellis
Willis is the first prosecutor to bring charges against Trump related to the 2020 election, but she won’t be the last. New York’s Attorney General has also gearing up to indict the former president.
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.
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Georgia’s most notorious body of water continues to live up to its reputation this year. Another man has died on Lake Lanier, according to state officials.
The unfortunate accident happened early Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, after a man disappeared after jumping off a jet ski into Lake Lanier, according to Hall County officials. The man’s girlfriend said he jumped off to swim back to shore but never re-emerged after plunging into the water.
Rescue workers with Gwinnett County Fire, Hall County Fire, and volunteer drivers looked for him on Saturday and we’re joined by Georgia Department of Natural Resources (workers on Sunday, but they all came up empty.
The body of Walter Guardado, 37, was retrieved from the waters on Monday afternoon, state officials confirmed.
Guardado was a father of two children, according to media reports.
Final Word
Read about the history of Lake Lanier.
Today, Lake Lanier covers the area where Oscarville and several other communities once stood. Although the town itself is now submerged, efforts have been made to preserve and commemorate its history, including the establishment of the Oscarville Historic District, which recognizes the significance of the town and its impact on the local area.
