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Coco Gauff, the 19-year-old tennis phenomenon from Atlanta, Georgia, made history on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023.
She won the U.S. Open by beating Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.Just 11 years ago, Gauff went from dancing at the US Open as an 8-year-old to winning her first career Grand Slam at the same tournament 11 as a 19-year-old.
She is the youngest American US Open champion since Serena Williams in 1999.
“Thank you to the people who didn’t believe in me,” Gauff said in her victory speech. “To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, you were really adding gas to it.”
Ranked No. 6 in the world, Gauff had to beat No. 2 player in the world to win the U.S. Open.
Sabalenka made 46 unforced errors on the day, while Gauff only committed 19.
Who Are Coco Gauff’s Parents?
Coco Gauff’s parents are Corey Gauff, a former athlete who played basketball at Georgia State University in Atlanta and Candi (Odom) Gauff who ran track for Florida State.
The Gauffs exposed Coco to many disciplines while she was young, including dance, basketball and tennis. While Coco was born in Atlanta, she was raised in Delray Beach, Florida.
After her win, Gauff thanked her parents for their dedication to her craft.
“Today was the first time I’ve seen my dad cry,” she said after the match. “Thank you guys. You believed in me from the beginning. I’ve been coming to this tournament, siting right there watching Venus & Serena compete. It’s incredible.”
Gauff credited Venus and Serena Williams as the reason for her victory.
“They’re the reason why I have this trophy today. They’ve allowed me to believe in this dream,” Gauff said. “Growing up, there weren’t too many black tennis players dominating the sport. It was just them at the time that I can remember, & obviously more came because of their legacy. It made the dream more believable. All the things they had to go through, they made it easier for someone like me to do this. You look back at the history of Indian Wells with Serena, all she had to go through. Venus, fighting for equal pay. It’s crazy & it’s an honor to be in that same lineup as them.”
Final Serve
Coco stands to become a household name now that she’s won the U.S. Open.
She already has had several endorsement deals from the likes of companies like Dior and Porsche. Those deals will only grow now.
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During the second weekend in Atlanta of September, the 2023 edition of Music Midtown is happening in Midtown’s Piedmont Park.
This year’s musical event is going to be a great one with big acts like Billie Eilish, Lil Baby, Pitbull, GloRilla and more. Back after a one-year hiatus, Music Midtown is known as the preeminent music festival in the city.
Want to know who’s on tap to perform at Music Midtown? Here’s what you need to know about the festival.
Music Midtown 2023: Everything You Need To Know
Music Midtown is one of Atlanta’s most prominent music festivals, attracting a steady stream of mid-level artists.
When Is Music Midtown This Year?
Music Midtown is taking place on Friday, Sept. 15 through Sunday, Sept. 17 in Midtown Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. Here’s what you need to know about the festival.
For Music Midtown, organizers wanted to be sure that you residents be left out the project.
How Much Does Music Midtown Cost?
Here are the prices for Music Midtown:
- 2-day general admission – $135
- 2-day general admission plus – $315
- 2-day VIP – $650
- 2-day Super VIP – $1,300
Get tickets to Music Midtown here.
Lineup: Who’s Performing At Music Midtown?
The following artists are confirmed:
Friday, Sept. 15
- Skai Water
- J.I.D.
- Flume
- Leah Kate
- Pitbull
- Pink
Saturday, Sept. 16
- Ed Rox
- Sueco
- Thirty Seconds to Mars
- Yung Gravy
- Calder Allen
- Upsahl
- Destroy Lonely
- The 1975
- Niah Horan
- The Rose
- The Midnight
- Sarah Kinsley
- The Moss
- Loud Latour
- Fletcher
- Louis the Child
- Lizzy McAlpine
- Billie Eilish
Sunday, Sept. 17
- The National Parks
- Magic City Hippies
- Big X The Plug
- Swavay
- Inhaler
- Joy Oladokun
- JP Saxe
- PJ Morton
- First Aid Kit
- Big Wild
- Tove Lo
- Mosego
- GloRilla
- Lil Baby
- Young Nudy
- The Garden
- Guns N’ Roses
- Incubus
- And More!
What To Expect At Music Midtown
Music Midtown is one of the best music festivals in the Southeast. If you’re thinking about going, here’s what to expect:
While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome summer festivals.
The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.
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. CNN Center often has something cool going on!
This event is just one among many Atlanta happenings going on weekly in the city. Keep up with AtlantaFi.com for more events.Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis responded in a letter Thursday to Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, a critic of her investigation into former President Donald Trump. You can read the letter below.
Willis, a Democrat, has been under intense scrutiny after indicting Trump under the state’s wide-ranging RICO statutes.Any trial of Trump and 18 other co-defendants would likely take place in Atlanta, the seat of Fulton County, and attract huge national and international interest.
Jordan, a Republican who is the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, has been trumpeting that he is going to open an investigation into Willis on the grounds that she has overstepped her authority.A close ally of Trump, Jordan said his inquiry would look for interference and collusion between the Fulton DA’s Office and the Biden Administration.
In her letter, she says Jordan is trying to “obstruct a Georgia criminal proceeding and to advance outrageous partisan misrepresentations.” She also told him that he didn’t understand RICO laws.
Your letter makes clear that you lack a basic understanding of the law, its practice, and the ethical obligations of attorneys generally and prosecutors specifically,” Willis said.
Read Fani Willis’ Letter To Jim Jordan
Final Word
The letter serves as yet another chapter in what will be a legal slugfest as Willis has announced that a trial against Trump and 18 co-defendants will be done at the same time and she hopes to do it in a four-month span.
When Willis handed down the indictments in early August, she knew she was in for a fight. Her actions over the past month have shown that she is up to the task.
Willis has taken a no-nonsense approach to prosecuting Trump, which has brought her and those in her office death threats.
In her latter, Willis said that because Jordan seems to have taken a more-than-personal interest in the business of the Fulton DA’s Office, “you should consider directing the USDOJ to investigate the racist threats that have come to my staff and me because of this investigation.”
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If you’re looking for something cool to do in Buckhead, Gypsy Kitchen, one of its coolest restaurants, has just what you need in the way of good food and live music.
The top Buckhead restaurant has resumed its weekly “Basque in the Sun” Party. The event happens on Sundays starting at 4:30 p.m. until close.
What Is Gypsy Kitchen’s ‘Basque In The Sun’ Event?
Basque in the Sun is a lively culinary event that celebrates the beautiful Basque Country every Sunday afternoon. You can enjoy music, the sun and fellow revelers from Gypsy Kitchen’s balcony.
You may also choose to:
- Sip on tintos de verano
- Try draft gintonics with Gypsy Kitchen’s very own proprietary tonic
- Indulge on Spanish ciders while enjoying a variety of pintxos.
If you’re interested in something to munch on, try these tantalizing goodies:
- Caramelized pork belly with blistered shishito peppers and chile oil ($3
- ) Shaved Serrano ham with soft cheese and blackberry jam ($3)
- Skewers stacked with oil cured tuna and piquillo peppers ($3)
- Shrimp, chorizo, potato and red pepper ($4).
The event also usually includes half off select bottles of wine, although I’ve not heard that this time.
For those staying in Atlanta this weekend come join the fun on Sunday for a special edition of Basque in the Sun!
Gypsy Kitchen, which draws inspiration from a mix of Spanish, Moroccan and Indian influences, is known for their adventurous tapas and drink menu. It is located at 3035 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305.
Final Word
Buckhead has a LOT to do over the course of one weekend, from cool dining spots to recreational activities.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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Automaker Kia is under renewed pressure to act as thefts of its vehicles continue to rise. In Atlanta, incidents of Kia car thefts have increased 700%, according to a local news report.
Citing Atlanta police statements made at a Public Safety Committee meeting in August 2023, Atlanta News First reported that Kia thefts in Atlanta are on an unprecedented pace.
The developments come several months after Kia and Hyundai reached a $200 million settlement to end a class-action lawsuit brought by car owners whose vehicles had been stolen. The plaintiffs alleged that the automakers made their cars easier to steal.
. In October, an East Point resident initiated a class action lawsuit against the automakers, alleging that newer Kia and Hyundai models lacked immobilizers. Immobilizers are security features that prevent unauthorized individuals from using an unprogrammed key or key fob to steal a vehicle.
Initially, law enforcement attributed this increase in thefts to a social media challenge, wherein criminals stole Kia and Hyundai models and shared their actions using the hashtag #kiaboyz.
On just about any social media site, under the hashtag #kiaboyz, you’ll find some debauchery.
What Is Kia Doing About Car Thefts?
For its part Kia says it’s been working on various technologies and security measures to prevent car thefts. These efforts often include:
Keyless Entry and Start Systems: Implementing advanced keyless entry and start systems with encryption to make it harder for thieves to clone key fobs.
Immobilizers: Installing immobilizer systems that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key or fob.
Alarms and Anti-Theft Systems: Equipping vehicles with alarms, motion sensors, and anti-theft systems to deter thieves.
GPS Tracking: Many manufacturers offer optional GPS tracking systems that can help locate a stolen vehicle.
Remote Shutdown: Some advanced systems allow owners or law enforcement to remotely disable a stolen vehicle.
Secure Software Updates: Regularly updating the vehicle’s software to patch security vulnerabilities and improve overall security.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Working closely with law enforcement agencies to recover stolen vehicles and apprehend thieves.
Final Word
Law enforcement in the Atlanta area continues to probe the Kia Boyz but it’s going to take police as well as the public’s help to stop auto thefts in the metro area.
The automobile industry as a whole is going to have to do more to educate customers about best practices for preventing car theft, such as not leaving valuables in the car and locking doors and windows.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Unfortunate events continue to lead to deaths this year at Lake Lanier.
According to state officials, a 23-year-old man died after falling into the water after slipping off the dock over Labor Day weekend.After the incident, his body was recovered from 17 feet of water. The victim was identified as Gavrie Alexander Whitlock, 23, of Snellville.
The site where Whitlock drowned is Holiday Marina, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Lake Lanier has been linked with some mysterious deaths since its inception in the 1950s. One common misconception was that the lake was built on top of a black town. In fact, Georgia’s Lake Lanier was not built on top of Oscarville, but rather, the construction of Buford Dam, which created the lake, flooded the area where the historic town of Oscarville was located.
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A popular TV series is casting nationally, including in Atlanta, for people involved in relationships who have not met their significant others in person yet.
The show, which airs on a major network, is looking for real stories from real people who are in online relationships and have never met.
Casting Call Details: What To Know
The ideal candidate:
- Is talking to or in a relationship with someone online.
- Has never met or successfully video called the person they are talking to
- Is over the age of 18
- Lives in the United States
The program aims to help people figure out if who they are talking to is representing themselves honestly, and then the series will try to help them meet in person. Interested? Here’s how to apply:
With more than 900 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.
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
Read More From AtlantaFi.com:
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Amid unconfirmed reports of at least two people killed in Northern Florida due to weather-related injuries, Tropical Storm Idalia ripped through Georgia and onto South Carolina late Wednesday.
In its wake, the storm left tens of thousands of homes without power.
Hurricane Idalia has moved into Georgia as a Category 3 storm about midday on Wednesday. As Florida officials continue to assess the situation, hurricane-force winds batter the Gulf area and have now crossed state lines, which means intense winds and storm surge is still happening along the Southern East Coast.
Idalia hit Florida early this morning as a Category 3 storm. The projected path of the weather event will take it into the Big Bend communities and then into South Georgia.
Footage from news cameras already show homes underwater and rooftops being ripped off due to strong wind gusts. Authorities are urging people to shelter in place.
Speaking to news media, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said the city is on high alert due to extensive flooding along waterfront land.
“We expect that ‘King’ High Tide around noon to 1 p.m., and that’s going to bring in several additional feet of water. The flooding that we’re experiencing now is nothing compared to what we’re experiencing now.”
Where Did Idalia Make Landfall?
Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach, Florida, around 7:45 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023.
Landfall is expected to present some significant problems for Florida’s coastal regions as well as certain cities and town inland as storm surge could be as high as 16 feet, according to weather reports. If you’re in its way, you should take safety precautions.
Georgia Officials On Alert
Georgia and the Carolinas are both expected to get a lot of rain and strong wind gusts, which is sure to cause major flooding in many communities.
How To Stay Safe During A Hurricane
When it comes to a hurricane or any big storm, there are some practical things you can do to stay safe and protect you and yours.
Wait for the All-Clear
Stay indoors until authorities declare it safe to go outside. Be cautious of downed power lines and other hazards.
Seek shelter in a sturdy building and stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. Stay on the lower floors of multi-story buildings to avoid wind exposure.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid as necessary and seek medical attention if needed.
Avoid Flooded Areas
Stay away from flooded roads, bridges, and buildings. Floodwaters can hide dangers like debris and downed power lines.
High winds can shatter glass and cause debris to fly, posing significant dangers.
Keep enough bottled water on hand for drinking, as tap water might become contaminated.
Inspect Your Home
Check for damage to your home, but avoid entering if it’s not safe. If you suspect structural damage, contact authorities.
Avoid using candles or open flames, as they can lead to fires if gas lines are damaged.
Communicate
Let friends and family know you’re safe. Use social media or text messages to conserve phone battery.
Continuously monitor weather updates and forecasts from reliable sources. Listen to local authorities and follow their instructions and evacuation orders.
Fully charge cell phones and other essential electronic devices in case of power outages.
Assess Food and Water
Assess your food and water supply. If in doubt, throw out perishable items that might have spoiled during power outages.
Flying debris is one of the most dangerous aspects of a hurricane. Secure outdoor furniture and items that could become projectiles.
Final Word
Remember, preparation is key to staying safe during a hurricane season. By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and your loved ones during this challenging weather event.
If flooding occurs, get out of the basement or lowest level of your home and take refuge on higher ground.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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If Atlanta is not your speed, Georgia has another cool place that’s world renown for its cultural significance: Savannah.
The coastal city has a bustling food scene, several nationally important landmarks and is a top Southern travel destination you should check out if you’re visiting.
Cool Things To Do In Savannah
Savannah, Georgia, is a charming and historic city known for its cobblestone streets, beautiful parks, and Southern hospitality. Here are some cool things to do in Savannah:
Forsyth Park
This expansive park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It features walking paths, fountains, gardens, and a playground. The iconic Forsyth Fountain is a must-see.
Historic District
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic district to admire the well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. Don’t miss River Street, a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and scenic views of the Savannah River.
City Market: This bustling area features shops, galleries, restaurants, and live entertainment. It’s a great place to enjoy local art and cuisine.
Dine on Southern Cuisine: Savannah offers a range of dining options, from classic Southern comfort food to upscale dining experiences. Don’t miss out on trying dishes like shrimp and grits or fried chicken.
Savannah Historic Squares
The city boasts 22 picturesque squares, each with its own character. Forsyth Square, Lafayette Square, and Chippewa Square (known for the famous bench scene in “Forrest Gump”) are some favorites.
Wormsloe Historic Site: Visit the famous avenue lined with live oak trees and Spanish moss at Wormsloe. The site also features a historic tabby ruin and a museum showcasing Georgia’s colonial history.
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): Explore the campus and galleries of this renowned art and design school. SCAD has contributed to the city’s artistic atmosphere.
Ghost Tours: Given Savannah’s rich history, ghost tours are quite popular. Join a guided tour to hear spooky stories and legends of the city’s haunted places.
Bonaventure Cemetery
This historic cemetery is known for its stunning monuments, sculptures, and Spanish moss-draped trees. Guided tours are available to learn about the cemetery’s history and notable figures buried there.
Telfair Museums
Explore the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center for the Arts. These museums offer a diverse collection of art and history.
Savannah Bee Company: Learn about bees and honey at this unique store that offers honey tastings and a variety of honey-based products.
Shop on Broughton Street: This vibrant street is lined with shops, boutiques, and eateries. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and unique gifts.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Admire the intricate architecture of this stunning cathedral. It’s known for its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive interior.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises
Take a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River to enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and learn about Savannah’s history.
Final Word
As nice as Savannah is, it’s proximity to other natural beauties makes it a top-class city. Tybee Island, one of the best beaches in Georgia, is just a short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island offers beautiful beaches, water sports, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Savannah is a city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or outdoor activities, you’re sure to find something enjoyable to do during your visit.
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Comedian Dave Chappelle is returning to Atlanta, Georgia this fall to perform one night on his comedy tour.
Chappelle’s Pilot Boy Productions has announced that his documentary tour includes a stop in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena. Here’s how to get tickets.
When Is Dave Chappelle Coming To Atlanta?
Chappelle is set to come to Atlanta on October 31 at State Farm Arena., 2023. His show in downtown Atlanta is being recorded as part of his documentary, which is likely to stream on Netflix.
Event:
Dave Chappelle’s ‘Untitled’ Documentary Show
Date and Time:
October 31, 2023, 7 p.m. ET
Chappelle’s tour has added some additional stops as it grows in popularity. So far he’s added the following dates:
Oct. 17: Milwaukee, WI — Fiserv Forum
Oct. 19: Boston, MA — TD Garden
Oct. 25: Raleigh, NC — PNC Arena
Oct 26: Charlotte, NC — Spectrum Center
Oct 31: Atlanta, GA — State Farm Arena
This is a cell phone-free event, according to organizers. This means if you need to use your phone, you’ll need to return to the distribution tent at the entrance. Anyone caught using a cell phone during the show will be immediately ejected.
What To Know Before You Go
State Farm Arena has a strict bag policy for all events held there.
Please note that bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″, including briefcases, purses, luggage, and diaper bags, are not allowed in the arena. Additionally, backpacks and hard-sided bags of any kind are prohibited. However, you are welcome to bring in single-compartment drawstring bags and fashion backpacks or purses that are smaller than 14″ x 14″ x 6″.
Final Word
The comedian is riding a wave of controversy after the release of his latest Netflix special The Closer, in which he takes on the trans community among other topics.
The special has caused a firestorm at Netflix, where trans employees and those who support them have threatened a walkout if the production isn’t pulled.
Chappelle, for his part, has decided to stand his ground. In a short video he released on Instagram, the comedian said that he “will not be summoned” by the trans community. He also had some conditions for a proper sit down.
“To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience,” he said. “But you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybody’s demands.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?