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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Luxury retailer Christian Louboutin opened its doors in Phipps Plaza in Buckhead on January 5. The store is Atlanta’s first high-profile store opening in 2024.
Now you have a new and fashionable reason to check out Buckhead! Want to learn more about the store? Keep reading!
Christian Louboutin Store Opens In Buckhead
Inspired by Christian Louboutin’s distinctive holiday home in Portugal, the store includes two lounges reminiscent of daytime spaces, both adorned with the Maison’s iconic red carpet flooring.
“The boutiques should look like a living room where people do not feel like they are in a store but in the home of a friend, who loves them and knows them well. Their friend has prepared different spaces across various corners of the world where they can meet and have fun,” fashion impresario Christian Louboutin says in a written statement.
The store’s exterior, adorned with crimson scales and tiles, invites visitors into Christian Louboutin’s imaginative world. Inside, the ambiance is light and airy, featuring elegant floral wallpaper illustrated by French artist Alexandre Poulaillon, complemented by custom banquettes in each salon.
The ceiling, crafted from woven raffia and white beams reminiscent of traditional Portuguese fishermen’s huts, adds a touch of rustic charm. The shoes are displayed on the Maison’s iconic niche walls, with curved alcoves inspired by the arched windows of the first Christian Louboutin store at Galerie Véro-Dodat in Paris.
Final Word
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Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
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Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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The Atlanta Falcons are fresh from the firing of former Head Coach Arthur Smith and big decisions await the franchise. The most pressing one is whether they will continue to develop second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder or give up on him.
The upcoming NFL draft promises to be a great one if you’re looking for franchise quarterbacks. According to NCAA draft pundits, the 2024 class of quarterbacks have ranked favorable (100 point scale) entering the new year. Who will the Falcons grab?
Top Quarterbacks In 2024 Draft
- Michael Penix Jr, Washington (83.2)
- Jayden Daniels, LSU (83.1)
- Bo Nix, Oregon (81)
- Caleb Williams, Southern California (82.1)
- Jordan Travis, Florida State (80.0)
- Drake Maye, North Carolina (79.5)
- Quinn Ewers, Texas (78.9)
- Michael Pratt, Tulane (65.8)
- Shedeur Sanders, Colorado (63.0)
All that being said, Ridder was also a great quarterback in college. The Louisville native started all four years at Cincinnati, throwing for 10,239 yards on with 87 touchdowns and 28 interceptions in 50 games.
Former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan said that the Falcons would likely go with a young quarterback, signaling that the front office is done with Ridder as starter.
“With that eighth pick, to find some stability at that position … I think it’s probably young, whether that’s trading for a young player or finding one in the draft,” he said.
There are also some veteran quarterbacks in the NFL who the Falcons would do well to consider. Here’s our list:
Top NFL Quarterback Free Agents In 2024
- Justin Fields
- Sam Darnold
- Jameis Winston
- Baker Mayfield
- Gardner Minshew
- Joshua Dobbs.
- Easton Stick
- Mason Rudolph
- Jake Browning
As for the heading coaching position for the Falcons, the search has begun. Leading the charge is owner Arthur Blank and CEO Rich McKay, with input from Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot, and several other staffers.
“I also want to be clear on this: There is no timetable,” Blank said in a news conference. “The only timetable is to do this correctly. We’ll take our time, be thoughtful, do all of the interviews, be respectful, make sure we have a full diverse set of candidates that we’re considering in every way, and give each and every one of them an opportunity to express their vision for our football team, for our franchise, for the roster, where we are and where we expect to go.
Final Snap
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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Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is under fire after fresh allegations this week that she authorized inappropriate payments to lawyer Nathan Wade for an investigation into Trump. Read the court motion below.
Wade, who is serving as a special prosecutor in the case against Trump, reportedly used $654,000 in taxpayer funds for lavish vacations, with the expenditures allegedly authorized directly by Willis.
Read the Motion Against Fani Willis
The claims were made recently in a court motion to dismiss the case, which the Fulton DA’s office has reportedly paid Wade to help prosecute.
The investigation, which offers no proofe, says that Wade’s windfall reportedly paid extravagant expenditures, including luxury vacations and Caribbean cruises, all funded by taxpayers.
The Fulton County DA’s Office said that it will fight the allegations through appropriate court filings.
The charges, if proven, would deal a substantial blow in the court of public opinion on whether the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office is operating above board when it comes to the Trump investigation.
Willis allegedly hired her lover, an inexperienced private attorney to help prosecute Trump for the non-crime of contesting an election. She proceeded to pay him 1 million dollars of taxpayer money, going on luxury vacations to the Bahamas with him.
Willis is an accomplished attorney who has spent her entire career upholding the law.
Since announcing the indictments in August 2023, 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.
Final Word
The turning of yet another witness signals a triumph for Willis, who has been scolded for attempting to try all 19 Trump co-defendants at one time. With an increasingly surprising number of them agreeing to plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for cooperating with prosecutors, it’s a sign that Willis will have the bandwidth — and time — to see justice through in the case.
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One thing you’re going to need if you’re trying to get a house is a mortgage. And to get a mortgage, you need to be pre-approved.
At this point, you should have saved up all the money you can for a down payment.
If you’re already pre-approved for a home loan, it signals to the loan officer, real estate agent and seller that you’re ready to purchase — and not playing around.
What Is The Best Way To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage?
The best way to get pre-approved for a mortgage is to have all your paperwork in order, but it includes more than that.
Your credit score is of paramount importance to a mortgage lender, but more on that later.
Follow These 3 Steps To Get Approved For A Mortgage
This article will go over the steps you need to get pre-approved so that you can get a mortgage.
First, let’s go over what a mortgage pre-approval is and how it works for you.
A mortgage pre-approval is a preliminary step to buying a home. It involves an initial offer from a lender to loan you a certain amount of money so that you can buy a home.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Approval And How Does It Work?
The amount of money that the lender pre-approves is based on their evaluation of your three things:
- Your Creditworthiness
- Your Finances
- Your Job Outlook
A mortgage pre-approval will require that you hand over a lot of your personal information, including your Social Security number for a credit check and more.
1. Get Your Free Credit Report
The first step you need to do is get a free copy of your credit report. You can do that by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.
AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-backed website that shows you your credit reports from the Big 3 credit Bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
2. Shop Around for a Lender
Different lenders offer different mortgage products and may have different criteria for pre-approval. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best terms for your situation
3. Get Your Credit Scores
You’ll also want to find out what your credit scores are from the Big 3 credit bureaus. If your credit scores are low with a particular credit-reporting agency or with all of them, you should try to improve them.
Here’s how to improve your credit score easily.
What Credit Score Is Needed For A Home Loan In Georgia?
In Georgia, as well as elsewhere, you’re going to need a credit score on the high end to qualify for a home loan.
According to Credit Karma, which uses the Average VantageScore 3.0 model, the national qualifying average credit score is 717. In Georgia, you’ll need a score around 700 to purchase a home.
f your credit score is lower than you’d like, take steps to improve it before applying for a mortgage. This can include paying down existing debts, making all your payments on time, and avoiding opening new lines of credit.
4. Have Your Financial Paperwork In Order
Before you get pre-approved, you’ll need some documents for verification purposes. These include:
- Social Security number
- W-2 or 1099 tax form
- Paycheck Stub
If you plan to have someone on the loan with you — perhaps a spouse or significant other — they will have to submit some personal information as well.
To apply for a mortgage pre-approval, you’ll need to provide various documents, including proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns), proof of assets (such as bank statements), and information about your debts (such as credit card balances and loan payments).
5. Get Pre-Approved!
Once you gather all of that financial information, you can submit it for mortgage pre-approval to your lender of choice.
Here’s a pro tip you might want to consider: Always try to get pre-approved with more than one lender. This increases your chances of getting pre-qualified exponentially.
Once you’ve chosen a lender, you can apply for pre-approval either online, over the phone, or in person. The lender will review your financial information and credit history to determine how much they’re willing to lend you and at what interest rate.
If you meet the lender’s criteria, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating the maximum amount you can borrow and the terms of the loan. This letter can be used to show sellers that you’re a serious buyer when making an offer on a home.
Once you’re approved, you can start to search for your dream home in Atlanta or any city you want to live in.
Conclusion
Your mortgage pre-approval is just that, a pre-approval. That means it still might not go through due to financial issues that come up.
Let’s say you lose your job during the pre-approval process. Then it’s a good chance, the lender will back out and your mortgage won’t be approved.
That’s why it’s a good idea to dispute any issues on your credit report or any other issues that come up. Here’s how to dispute your credit report.
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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If you’re a black woman, people have all kinds of opinions on whether you should wear a blonde wig or bleach your hair. The reasons are varied, but all of them in some way or form are rooted in weird colorist viewpoints.
Regardless of your complexion, what others think shouldn’t stop you from wearing blonde hair, if that’s what you want to do.
Black Women With Blonde Hair
British vlogger Breeny Lee says, “When you see a black woman with blonde hair, she is not trying to be a white woman. She is just trying to be creative.”
Breeny further illustrates the point, saying that the point of blonde hair is not to look natural, but stylish. “If I wanted natural hair, I would go black … but sometimes I want to hair green hair, or brown hair or whatever.”
Of course, there are opposing views. Youtuber Jazmyne Drakeford did a sarcastic video about black women trying to be white by having blonde hair. Many of the commenters didn’t get the joke.
Are you wondering how you would look as a platinum blonde? Here are some black women who rock blonde hair in various hues.
Curls
How To Care for Curly Hair
Curly hair tends to be dry, so you don’t need to shampoo it every day. Co-washing, or cleansing with conditioner, can be a great option.
If you do shampoo, choose a sulfate-free formula that won’t strip away your hair’s natural oils.
Apply shampoo to your scalp and massage it in gently. Avoid lathering up the ends of your hair, as this can cause frizz.
Light Ends
View this post on InstagramHow To Manage Liht Ends
Managing hair with light ends, whether naturally occurring or from bleaching, requires a special touch to maintain their vibrancy and prevent damage. Here are some key tips to keep your light ends looking their best.
Light ends tend to be drier and more prone to breakage than darker hair. Deeply nourishing them is crucial. Use a shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for blonde or color-treated hair. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and shea butter, which are known for their moisturizing properties.
Straight Like That
View this post on InstagramStraight hair can be sleek and stunning, but it also requires special care to maintain its shine and keep it from becoming limp or greasy. Here are some tips to keep your straight locks looking their best:
Straight hair tends to get oily faster than other hair types, so washing it every other day might be necessary. However, over-washing can strip away natural oils, making your hair dry and brittle. Listen to your hair and wash it as often as needed to feel clean and comfortable.
Short Pixie
View this post on InstagramWashing a pixie cut might seem different compared to longer hairstyles, but it’s actually a breeze! Here’s how to keep your short locks clean and healthy:
ather your supplies:
- Gentle shampoo and conditioner, ideally formulated for short hair or fine hair.
- Scalp massaging brush (optional, but good for stimulating circulation and removing product buildup).
- Wide-tooth comb.
- Soft towel.
Farrah Style
View this post on InstagramLong Hair, Don’t Care
View this post on InstagramTaking care of long hair can be incredibly rewarding, leading to healthy, luxurious locks that turn heads. Here are some key tips to keep your long hair strong and beautiful:
Gentle Cleansing:
- Frequency: Long hair doesn’t need daily washing as it naturally produces less oil than shorter styles. Aim for 2-3 washes per week or adjust based on your scalp’s needs.
- Shampoo: Choose a gentle shampoo free of sulfates and harsh chemicals, especially formulated for long or dry hair. Focus on massaging your scalp and avoid lathering the ends, which can strip moisture.
- Conditioner: This is your best friend! Apply a nourishing conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends, leaving it in for a few minutes before rinsing to replenish moisture and detangle.
Goldilocks
View this post on InstagramBudget and quality:
- How much are you willing to spend on a wig?
- Do you want a synthetic or human hair wig? Human hair wigs are generally more expensive but look and feel more natural.
- Where would you buy the wig? Reputable beauty stores and online retailers offer a wider selection and better quality compared to costume shops.
Au Naturale
View this post on InstagramTaking care of natural hair can be an exciting yet sometimes challenging journey. Each curl pattern and hair type has its own unique needs, but these general tips will help you keep your natural hair healthy, hydrated, and thriving:
Moisture is Key:
- Water is your best friend: Natural hair loves water! Spritz your hair throughout the day with a spray bottle or use the LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) method to lock in moisture.
- Deep condition regularly: Treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment once a week or every other week. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil.
- Leave-in conditioners and oils: These are your daily essentials! Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to damp hair to seal the cuticle and prevent frizz. Focus on the ends,
Platinum Blonde
View this post on InstagramDyeing your hair platinum blonde can be a dramatic and transformative change, offering a range of potential benefits beyond just a fresh look. Here are some of the positive aspects to consider:
1. Bold and Edgy Style:
Platinum blonde is a head-turning shade that instantly makes a statement. It can add an air of boldness, confidence, and edge to your personal style.
Platinum blonde acts as a blank canvas for various hairstyles and colors. You can experiment with vibrant temporary hair chalks, pastel streaks, or even dip-dye the ends for a fun and personalized look.
Shiny And Silky
View this post on Instagramilky smooth hair is a hair goal we all share, and achieving it requires focusing on both internal and external factors. Here are some tips to make your hair silky:
Internal Care:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and hair hydrated from within.
- Diet: Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those beneficial for hair health like biotin, vitamin E, and iron. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds also contribute to hair health.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact hair health. Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation to keep your hair happy.
External Care:
- Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh shampoos with sulfates, which can strip your hair of natural oils. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos formulated for dry or damaged hair.
- Conditioning: Don’t skip the conditioner! Apply a nourishing conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair after shampooing. Leave it in for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft.
- Deep Conditioning: Treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment once a week or every other week. Look for masks rich in natural oils and proteins to replenish moisture and combat dryness.
How To Bleach Your Hair Blonde
If you want to bleach your hair blonde, you’re going to need some hair dye. Here are some simple steps you can follow.
The first thing you need to make sure of is that you have the supplies you need. Here is the equipment you’ll use to bleach your hair at home.
A lot of people want to know if you really need purple shampoo. The answer is yes, because it severely dims the brassy look that many people have once they dye their hair. It helps neutralize that brassy yellow look and allows the follicles to exude a golden look.
Once you put on your gloves, you can open the dye and dip the hair brush into the treatment.
With slow broad strokes, brush your hair with the dye while you’re looking at a mirror. The goal is to cover your scalp in dye so that you have a complete treatment.
Once your hair has been completed covered in dye, let it set for about 20-30 minutes depending on the desired effect.
Last Words
If you want to try different hues, you may want to do a second dye the next day to achieve a certain color. You may also choose to put some conditioner in your hair at this point to experiment with styling.
The truth is that bleaching your hair blonde can bring out your skin tone, especially under various types of lighting.
If blonde hair is not really your style, there are some other colors you may look great in.
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The Atlanta Falcons finished the season with 10 losses yet again, including stinking up the final game 48-17 to the hapless New Orleans Saints. As a result, head coach Arthur Blank was fired.
The Falcons had an up and down season, but they if they develop (of as some say change) the quarterback position, they have a lot of room to grow.
Falcons Finish Season 7-10
Smith took on the role of head coach for the Atlanta Falcons on January 15, 2021, leading the team for three seasons. Throughout his tenure, the Falcons maintained a consistent 7-10 record each season. His time in Atlanta concludes with an overall record of 21-30.
Despite the early struggles, the Falcons still had a good chance in the NFC South with one week left, but they needed some help.
How did the Falcons do over the course of the season? Let’s take a look.
Here Is The 2023 Atlanta Falcons Schedule
Date Opponent Time and Location Scores / Tickets Sept. 10, 2023 Carolina Panthers 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 24-10 – W Sept. 17, 2023 Green Bay Packers 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 25-24 W Sept. 24, 2023 Detroit Lions 1 p.m. at Ford Field, Detroit 6-20 L Oct. 1, 2023 Jacksonville Jaguars 1 p..m. at Wembly Stadium, London 7-23 L Oct. 8, 2023 Houston Texans 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 21-19 W Oct. 15, 2023 Washington Commanders 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 24-16 L Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023 Tampa Bay Bucs Raymond James Stadium, 1 p.m. 16-13 W Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023 Tennessee Titans Nissan Stadium, Nashville 28-23 L Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023 Minnesota Vikings 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 31-28 L Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023 Arizona Cardinals 4 p.m. State Farm Stadium at Glendale, AZ 25-23 L Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023 BYE WEEK Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023 New Orleans Saints 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 24-15 W Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023 New York Jets 1 p.m. at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey 13-8 W Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023 Tampa Bay Bucs 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 29-25 L Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023 Carolina Panthers Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC 9-7 L Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023 Indianapolis Colts 1 p..m. at Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta 29-10 W Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023 Chicago Bears 1 p.m. at Soldier Field, Chicago 37-17 L Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024 New Orleans Saints 1 p.m. at Caesars Super Dome, New Orleans Football fans are excited about the Falcons and the moves they’ve made behind quarterback Desmond Ridder. HOw many games will the Falcons win? That remains to be seen. Some people are saying at least 11 games. I think 10 is reasonable given their strength of schedule at home.
They will have to go through the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, Chicago and the always-tough New Orleans Saints in the season finale.
Are The Atlanta Falcons On Thursday Night Football?
The Falcons are one of four teams without any primetime games. The other teams are Arizona, Houston and Indianapolis.
Here are teams with primetime games:
- Buffalo, Dallas, Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City (6 games)
- Green Bay, New York Giants, Minnesota, Las Vegas, Philadelphia (5 games)
- Baltimore, Cincinnati, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, New England, Pittsburgh (4 games)
- Miami, New Orleans, Jacksonville, Seattle (4 games)
- Carolina, Cleveland, Los Angeles Rams, Tennessee, Tampa Bay (2 games)
- Washington (1 game)
Week 1: Falcons 24, Panthers 10
With the Atlanta Falcons victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, the Dirty Birds are over .500 for first time since finishing 10-6 in 2017. That was the league’s longest active drought of not being over .500.
Atlanta started their 2023 season off with a thrilling 24-10 win against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes Benz Stadium. The game was the NFL debut of rookie Bryce Young, the starting quarterback of the Panthers.
The Falcons broke open a tight game behind three turnovers, including two interceptions by Atlanta safety Emoni Bates.
The Falcons also snapped a five-game losing streak in season openers (was longest active streak and longest streak in franchise history).
Week 2: Falcons 25, Packers 24
A close game came down to a field goal as Atlanta had to come from behind to beat the Green Bay Packers and Jordan Love.
The Atlanta Falcons defended home field on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, with a thrilling 25-24 victory over the Green Bay Packers.
Week 3: Falcons 6, Lions 20
The Falcons lost to the Detroit Lions 20-6 on Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023. The Falcons offense could get nothing going as quarterback Desmond Ridder was sacked seven times.
Week 4: Jaguars 24, Falcons 6
The Atlanta Falcons lost 24-6 to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL’s international game on Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023.
The Falcons defense and offense looked listless against the Jaguars.
Week 5: Falcons 21, Texans 19
In a battle of young quarterbacks, Desmond Ridder outdueled CJ Stroud in the Falcons’ 21-19 victory against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023.
Ridder turned in the best performance in his career, throwing for over 300 yards and limiting his mistakes.
Week 6: Washington Commanders 24, Falcons 16
The Atlanta Falcons lost 24-16 against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023 in another mistake-filled game by quarterback Desmond Ridder.
Week 7: Falcons 16, Tampa Bay 13
The Falcons won 16-13 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023 in another mistake-prone game by quarterback Desmond Ridder.
Despite Ridder’s struggles, he had some key plays with his arm and legs against Tampa.
Week 8: Falcons 23, Titans 28
The Falcons had a chance to win the game against the Tennessee Titans late, even after losing starting quarterback Desmond Ridder to a concussion, but they just couldn’t get it done.
Week 9: Falcons 28, Vikings 31
The Atlanta Falcons had to start backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke due to Desmond Ridder still being in concussion protocol. During the game, Atlanta underestimated quarterback Josh Dobbs, who used his legs to scramble for first downs and throw darts at the last minute. The Vikings escaped with a three-point win while the Falcons lost again.
Week 10: Falcons 23, Arizona 25
The Falcons decided to go with Taylor Heinicke again at quarterback for the second week in a row. The Arizona Cardinals did just enough to win against the Atlanta Falcons, 25-23 as Tyler Murray threw for 249 yards and a touchdown.
Week 11: BYE Week
Week 12: Falcons 24, Saints 15
The New Orleans Saints came to Atlanta looking to cement their lead in the division. Instead, they left as losers after Ridder and Bijan Robinson ran all over them for a 24-15 victory.
Week 13: Falcons 7, Panthers 9
The hapless Carolina Panthers couldn’t find the end zone against the Falcons, who were atop the NFC South. But on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, Carolina didn’t need a touchdown to beat the Falcons 9-7 in Charlotte.
The Falcons were up 7-6 and driving with about 7 minutes in the game when Desmond Ridder threw an ill-advised dart into traffic at the Carolina 10-yard line. The pass was picked off.
The Panthers then drove down the field, using up the rest of the game clock, to win the game with an easy field goal in the closing seconds.
Week 17: Falcons 17, Bears 37
Taylor Heinicke threw for 163 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions as the Falcons lost 37-17 to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023.
Week 18: Saints 48, Falcons 17
The Falcons scored first after their defense limited the Saints to a short opening drive of four plays and 10 yards. Quarterback Desmond Ridder then orchestrated a seven-play, 79-yard drive culminating in a 15-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jonnu Smith. Wide receiver Scotty Miller contributed a 56-yard catch that covered most of the distance.
However, the lead was short-lived as the Saints responded with an 18-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Derek Carr to wide receiver A.T. Perry, tying the game with approximately five minutes left in the quarter.
Final Word
No matter how many wins or losses, one thing we know for sure is that the Falcons will make things interesting.
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. -
One ways to keep track of your finances is to save money on regular expenses. If you could lower your car payments, it can make a big difference.
This article will show you several ways to get cheap auto insurance. We’ve done the research for you so all you have to do is get ready to save money.
How You Can Lower Your Auto Insurance Payments
Car insurance companies penalize drivers under age 25 because they rely on statistics and reports that say that motorists younger than that age are responsible for the most accidents, but the truth is that they feel those drivers are more likely to be helped by their parents. That means the insurers feel confident that the high rates can be absorbed by dual income people who feel obligated to help their son or daughter with insurance costs. Wouldn’t it be great if you could just lower your insurance payments altogether? Here are some ways to do just that.
Bundle Your Auto And Home Insurance
The quickest way to drop your rate is to bundle your auto and home insurance. If you don’t have a home and live in an apartment, see if you can bundle your renter’s insurance. Insurance companies have an incentive to lower your rate if you give them more of your business.
Maintain Good Credit
One of the ways car insurance companies determine your rate is by looking at your credit score. A poor score, typically anything below 600, will have you paying more for auto insurance.
Today you can boost your credit score by paying bills and more.
Do all you can to raise your credit score. Here are some ways to do that.
Ask For Discounts
When you contact an auto insurance company, make sure you ask for discounts. If you’re a member of any organization or even your employer may qualify you for a discount on your insurance.
Get Several Insurance Quotes
Never settle for just one insurance quote when you’re shopping for a rate. Always contact several insurance companies and write down their quotes. Once you feel you’ve gotten enough insurance quotes, take a look at your list and compare prices. This way, you’re sure to choose the lowest insurance rate.
Some insurers offer discounts for things like being a member of certain organizations or having certain safety features on your car.
Boost Your Credit Score
Another way to lower your insurance is to improve your credit score.
In some states, your credit score can affect your insurance rates. Work on improving your credit to potentially lower your premiums.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Some insurers offer programs where your rates are based on your actual driving habits. If you’re a safe driver, this could save you money.
Last Words
In a large metropolitan city like Atlanta or a small one like Mayberry, you need car insurance. But why does it have to be so expensive? Getting a lower insurance rate is super important today because prices continue to creep upward. Remember to comparison shop so that you can make sure you’re getting the best rate.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.Read more: -
If you’ve studied the local real estate market, you know that buying a home takes a lot of preparation, fortune and money!
Some of the things you’ll want to consider will be lifestyle issues: What are the schools like in the area? How close is it from the job? All those are important questions, but one of the main ones is how much money to save for the down payment.
This article will show you some easy steps on how to save money for a home.
How To Save For A House This Year: 5 Steps That Work
Homeownership is an achievement that comes with the American Dream. The problem is that relatively few people ever realize it. But you certainly can. Here are the steps:
1. Set A Realistic Goal
The first thing you need to do is set a realistic goal for the type of home you want to afford. If you think a $900,000 mansion is within your means, then go for it. But for many people, that’s not realistic.
Do some homework on the specific neighborhoods you want to live in. Some are better than others.
You’ll only get the home that you can afford to pay for it. As for the dream homes, please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to.
2. Create A Budget
Once you’ve set a goal, it’s time to create a budget that will allow you to save up for your down payment. The way to do that is to reduce expenses.
You’ll have to look at your monthly expenses and see if you can cut things like subscriptions and gym memberships.
As you know, you’ll traditionally need 20% down payment to buy a home, but this is not always the case. Many lenders an take down payments much lower than that.
3. Get A Government Loan
The way to afford the home you want is to get a government lender to give you the money. No offense, Bank of America or Regions, but government loans are usually way more generous.
There are some great lenders that let borrowers put down way less than 20%. Here are a few:
- FHA loans
- VA loans
- USDA loans, (no down payment required)
Read our guide on how to find lost government money.
4. Get A Side Hustle
Another great way to save up for a home is to get a side job. Don’t think that you need to kill yourself to earn some extra income. All you need is something to add to the pot you already have.
Don’t know where to start? Read how you can turn hobbies into side hustles fast.
5. Save Your Big Money
Chances are you’re going to get big money at least three times in a calendar year. Save it for your down payment.
No matter if it’s your holiday bonus, tax refund or even a stimulus payment, you will have an opportunity to save big money. All you have to do is put it away.
How Much Money Should I Save A Month To Buy A House?
Because you’ll need to save money incrementally, it’s good to put together a plan to set cash aside each month. How much should you save? It depends.
If you want to buy a home that costs $250,000, you’ll need to save $250 a month for four years until you come up with 20% down payment. That’s around $50,000.
Here’s how to find out much rent you can afford in Atlanta.
How Much Money Do I Have To Make To Save For A House?
A lot of people don’t think they can save money for a house because they aren’t making big money. You may be wondering what kind of salary you need to pull to save up for a home.
The truth is that it depends on what the prices are in your local real estate market.
If you the homes in your area cost $200,000, then you’ll need to save $60,000 for a 30% down payment. If you save $20,000 a year, you can accumulate $60,000 in three short years.
I know it sounds easier than it is to do, but here are some creative ways you can save money.
Last Words
If you’re considering buying a home, there are many things to think about, including getting a home inspection if it’s not a new build.
If you’re serious about saving for a home, there’s nothing that says you have to only save 20% for your down payment. Why not aim for 30%?
The more you save, the cheaper your home will be over the length of the mortgage. If you can save money on the front end, once you get inside your new home, you’ll sleep much better.
Read more: How To Buy Land In 6 Easy Steps
Once you’ve saved a certain amount of money, it’s time to start looking at cheap homes for sale.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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Buying a house in 2024 is a bit more challenging than in recent years, but according to real estate experts, the market is set to improve.
In this article, we’ll go over how to buy a house in Atlanta.
How Much Do You Need To Make To Buy A House In Atlanta?
According to recent data, the median home price in Atlanta is around $350,000. However, home prices can vary widely depending on the neighborhood and type of property you’re interested. If you’re a novice homeowner (or not), it’s best to do your homework on the front end.
Read our guide on how much home to afford.
Atlanta’s real estate market features the best of the Southeast, which means you’ll likely get plenty of land, but the prices continue to encroach upon what you’d find in the Northeast.
Thinking about buying a home this year? Here are a few factors you might want to consider:
Get Your Money Right
There’s nothing like falling in love with a home you know you can’t afford. Places like Buckhead, Dunwoody, Fayetteville and Locus Grove have big homes but so are the mortgages.
Before you start looking for a house, it’s important to understand your financial situation. This includes knowing your credit score, saving for a down payment, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage.
Read our guide on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Understand the Atlanta Market
The Atlanta real estate market is a volatile one in that it can trend in different directions throughout the year. It’s your job to stay on top of the changes.
Real estate markets can vary widely depending on location and economic conditions. Research the housing market in the area where you want to buy to understand pricing trends, inventory levels, and competition.
Make a Wish List
It’s important to get what you want out of your home. Some people need privacy; others need entertainment space.
Make a list of what you’re looking for in a home, including must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your criteria.
Hire a Real Estate Agent
A good real estate agent can be invaluable in helping you find the right home, negotiate a fair price, and navigate the buying process.
The best real estate companies take their time with you and provide excellent customer service all while making you feel heard and seen.
Get a Home Inspection
Once you’ve found a home you like, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. This can uncover any potential issues with the property that could affect its value or your decision to buy.
A home inspection can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re making an informed decision about the condition of the property.
Overall, a home inspection is an important part of the home buying process that can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential issues down the road.
Make an Offer
When you’re ready to make an offer on a home, your real estate agent can help you determine a fair price based on comparable sales in the area and other factors. They can also guide you through the negotiation process.
Secure Financing
Once your offer has been accepted, you’ll need to finalize your mortgage. This involves providing documentation to your lender, getting an appraisal, and completing the underwriting process.
Close on the House
The final step in buying a house is the closing process, where all the necessary paperwork is signed, and the ownership of the property is transferred to you. This usually involves paying closing costs and fees, so be prepared for these expenses.
Final Thought
Buying a home is a wonderful experience when you think about the dream of homeownership and its many benefits.
The process of buying a house can vary depending on your individual circumstances, so it’s important to do your research and work with professionals who can help guide you through the process.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
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Looking back atit, the performance was relatively short, but boy, was it powerful. Remember when comedian and actor Katt Williams was having a rough time in 2018? That’s when Donald Glover tapped him to star in an episode of the hit show Atlanta FX. It’s called “Alligator Man.”
The two talked about Williams winning an Emmy for the role, but who knows if they both had it planned all along: Williams went on to win an Emmy for his portrayal of “Alligator Man,” which was the name of the episode at the sttart of Season 3 of Atlanta.
Watch Kat Williams as ‘Alligator Man’ in Atlanta FX
Here’s the award-winning scenes for Williams.
AtlantaFX was also nominated for a Gold Derby TV Award for the “Teddy Perkins” episode. The awards are given out based on the votes of thousands of Gold Derby users.
With more than 700 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls