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The Final Four is coming to Atlanta in the upcoming years. Atlanta has been selected to host the 2031 NCAA Division I Men’s Final Four at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For Georgia’s largest city, the event’s return is a long time coming. It was originally selected host the 2020 NCAA Men’s Final Four at the newly built Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Atlanta Chosen for Final Four
“Time and again, Atlanta has proved itself as the best city in America to host global sporting events. We thank the NCAA for selecting us to host this incredible event. The eyes of the sporting world will be on Atlanta, and we know that we will be up to the task once again as a champion is crowned and One Shining Moment is played in 2031.”
Atlanta has hosted the NCAA Men’s Final Four multiple times. The city hosted the tournament in the following years:
- 1977: The first time Atlanta hosted the Final Four was in 1977 at the Omni Coliseum.
- 2002: The Final Four returned to Atlanta, held at the Georgia Dome.
- 2007: The Georgia Dome again hosted the event.
- 2013: Atlanta hosted the Final Four at the Georgia Dome, marking the last time the event was held there before the Dome was demolished
Final Word
Atlanta is a sports paradise, although it’s not reflected in the number of championship banners that reside here. Our Things You Didn’t Know About Atlanta guide will tell you that and more.
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IKEA just opened a new store in Alpharetta on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. If you plan on visiting the store, here’s what to expect.
To mark its official opening, IKEA Alpharetta hosted a grand opening, featuring exclusive tours, giveaways, food sampling, and more.
Located in the Mansell Crossing Shopping Center, this new format store is the second IKEA location in the Atlanta metro area. It’s designed to better meet the needs of modern consumers by being more affordable, accessible, and convenient.
“We are excited to offer Atlanta metro area consumers a new way to shop IKEA!” said Javier Quiñones, CEO & Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA U.S. “The new Alpharetta location highlights our commitment to bringing IKEA closer to the many people, making it easier and more affordable to access our home furnishing products and solutions.”
At the Alpharetta Plan & Order Point with Pick-up, customers can connect with IKEA experts for assistance with more complex home furnishing needs, such as kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Although immediate product take-home isn’t available, customers can arrange for delivery or schedule orders to be picked up at the convenient on-site Pick-up location.
“The new Alpharetta location is just one of the many ways we are expanding our business,” said Brandon Lomax, Market Manager, IKEA U.S. “We are thrilled to soon open our doors at IKEA Alpharetta and can’t wait to welcome residents of the Atlanta area to this new IKEA experience.”
Where Is The Alpharetta IKEA Located?
The Alpharetta IKEA is located at 7681 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30022. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
With the addition of Plan & Order Points with Pick-up, IKEA continues to expand its presence across the U.S., while also focusing on positive environmental impact through initiatives in clean energy, circular economy practices, and affordable housing advocacy.
Alpharetta is a happening place, from The Avalon, food halls and great restaurants and more.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Restaurant chain Red Lobster continues to hemorrhage money due to several bad financial decisions and factors. Now, the restaurant announced that it is set to close 23 more of its locations across the United States.
And yes, the Tara Boulevard location in Jonesboro, Georgia is on the list.
Which Atlanta-Area Red Lobsters Will Stay Open (For Now)?
- 3360 Camp Creek Parkway, Atlanta, Ga. 30344
Why Is Red Lobster in Financial Trouble?
Red Lobster is facing financial trouble due to several factors, including declining customer traffic, inflation, and rising costs for key ingredients like seafood. The chain has struggled to maintain profitability amid higher food and labor costs, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Red Lobster’s mid-range pricing strategy is being squeezed between cheaper fast-food options and higher-end dining experiences. This has made it harder for the brand to attract customers, especially as dining preferences shift and competitors emerge.
Moreover, Red Lobster has faced challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences, including the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable, and diverse dining options. Its traditional menu and dining model may seem outdated to some consumers.
The financial strain has also been impacted by changes in ownership over the years, leading to inconsistent management strategies.
Which Red Lobster Locations Are Closing?
The following Red Lobster locations are set to shut their doors for good:
- Arizona — 1521 S. Yuma Palms Pkwy., Yuma
- Arkansas — 8407 W. Markham St., Little Rock
- California — 8703 Murray Drive, La Mesa
- Colorado — 4925 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs
- Florida — -326 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach
- 5110 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola
- 8909 U.S. Highway 19, Port Richey
- Georgia — 6550 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro
- Illinois — 1604 N. State Road 50, Bourbonnais
- 902 Commons Drive, Geneva
- 4625 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria
- Indiana — 4353 Franklin St., Michigan City
- Minnesota — 8900 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley
- 12515 Elm Creek Blvd. North, Maple Grove
- Missouri — 2381 Maplewood Commons Drive, Maplewood
- New York — 925 Hunts Point Ave., Bronx
- 750 Upper Glen St., Queensbury
- North Carolina — 304 A Western Blvd., Jacksonville
- Ohio —17227 Southpark Center, Strongsville
- South Carolina — 1270 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce
- Virginia –555 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria
- 4415 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond
- 709 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach
What Is the History of Red Lobster?
Red Lobster was founded in 1968 by entrepreneur Bill Darden in Lakeland, Florida. The restaurant began as a single seafood restaurant aimed at making fresh seafood more accessible to middle-class families. It quickly gained popularity due to its affordable prices and high-quality seafood offerings, leading to rapid expansion.
In 1970, the company was acquired by General Mills, which helped fuel further expansion across the United States. By the 1980s, Red Lobster had become a well-known national chain with hundreds of locations, offering signature dishes like cheddar bay biscuits, shrimp scampi, and a variety of seafood platters.
In 1995, General Mills spun off its restaurant holdings, including Red Lobster, to create a new company called Darden Restaurants. Under Darden, Red Lobster continued to grow and remained a cornerstone of the casual dining industry. However, by the 2000s, the brand began experiencing challenges due to changing consumer preferences, economic downturns, and increased competition.
In 2014, Darden decided to sell Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, for $2.1 billion. The sale was part of a broader strategy to refocus on Darden’s other brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Under Golden Gate Capital, Red Lobster went through various management changes and attempts to revitalize the brand, including efforts to modernize its menu and restaurant design.
In 2020, Red Lobster was sold again, this time to a consortium led by Thai Union, a major seafood supplier, alongside other investors. Despite the ownership changes and rebranding efforts, Red Lobster has continued to face financial challenges in recent years, driven by rising costs, competition, and evolving dining trends.
Final Word
When it comes to seafood, Red Lobster has had a footprint in Atlanta for decades — but it’s not the only tuna in town. Check out our Atlanta Seafood Guide.
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One of the key things in you in show business is a winning headshot — and in Atlanta, there are several places to choose from. This article will show you some of the best places to get headshots in Atlanta.
You may be wondering where to get a good headshot for acting, and that’s a good question. But you may be wondering this: Can you take your own headshots for acting?
Can You Take Your Own Headshots For Acting?
if you have a smartphone that takes good photos, you can take your own headshots for acting or other aspects of the business. The question you need to ask yourself is whether you consider yourself a professional photographer.
Professional photographers are highly skilled at taking photos that look high quality. You can try to take headshots yourself, but you may find yourself wasting a lot of time and effort.
Some things you’ll want to make sure of if you do decide to take your own photos is to:
- Take multiple shots
- Make sure your lighting is right
- Take multiple pictures but always smile
What Should You Wear For Headshots?
One thing you always need to consider is how to dress when you take a headshot. Because the photos will be in black and white, you may need to wear dark-colored shirts.
Mix it up a bit by wearing light-colored shirts, including white and other pastel colors.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Headshots?
If you want to opt for a professional photographer for headshots, it’s going to cost money. The cost of some headshots can range between $75 to around $500.
In Atlanta, the average price of some headshots is about $250, although you can get some done for as low as $125, but the quantities will be low.
Now let’s go over some good places to get headshots in Atlanta.
Where To Get Headshots For Acting
- Headshots Atlanta: 1012 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 892-3533
- CK Headshots Atlanta: (704) 608-3006
- Happy Hour Headshot Atlanta: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (720) 306-7404
- Hollywood Headshots: 2849 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 500-6413
- Corporate Headshots Atlanta: 3365 Piedmont Rd NE #1400, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (770) 953-1719
- Buckhead Studio Photography: Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 462-2385
- Atlanta Photographer Kris Janovitz: 3355 Lenox Rd NE #750, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (770) 570-9661
- Robert Kim Photography: 3833 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319 | (212) 645-5788
Do Your Headshots Be Black And White?
Back in the day, most actors only took black and white headshots. The reason was because if you were a struggling actor, it cost money to hire a professional photographer. That’s not so much the case today.
Yes, actors are still struggling, but the rise of smartphones with great cameras has made color headshots a popular option.
If you’re unsure of which way to go, choose both color and black-and-white photos for headshots. That way, you can give producers options.
Last Words
If you want to get into the acting business, you need to have professional headshots so that your credentials can circulate throughout the industry.
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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Atlanta comedian and actor Drew “Druski” Desbordes has signed on as a brand ambassador for PrizePicks, the largest daily fantasy sports operator in North America.
The recent announcement expands on PrizePicks’ relationship with Druski, which began organically through the comedian’s own play with the daily fantasy sports operator.
Thanks to his online skits, Druski, a South Gwinnett High School graduate, is one of the fastest-growing comedic stars with millions of followers.
Druski Strikes Brand Ambassador Deal With PrizePicks
Druski will partner with PrizePicks to develop original online content, co-branded specialty merchandise, national advertising campaigns, and other one-of-a-kind engagements for the daily fantasy sports community.
As part of the partnership, Druski and PrizePicks will collaborate on creating social skits, an original short-form series for YouTube, and a co-branded line of exclusive merchandise.
Additionally, Druski will participate in several events for the PrizePicks community such as the PrizePicks World Championship and social media takeovers on select football Sundays. PrizePicks is also the title sponsor of Druski’s Inaugural Coulda Fest happening in Atlanta at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on September 7th.
“I’m fired up to work with PrizePicks, we’ve done some cool stuff over the years and I’m excited to keep it coming,” Druski said. “Coulda Fest is a celebration of Atlanta’s culture that brings us back to the special times in our city’s history with a night of music and comedy. This concept has never been done before, so I’m looking forward to bringing this vision to life, thanks in part, to the support from PrizePicks.”
Final Word
Atlanta loves Druski and he loves the food.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Toastique, a gourmet toast and juice bar, is set to open in fall 2024, according to the company.
oastique is a gourmet toast and juice bar that focuses on offering healthy, quick, and customizable meals. The restaurant’s menu centers around elevated toast creations made with fresh, high-quality ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, and nut butters.
They also serve a variety of smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and açaí bowls, catering to health-conscious customers seeking flavorful yet nutritious options.
Toastique is popular for its vibrant, Instagram-worthy presentations and its emphasis on wellness, making it a hit among those looking for healthy, on-the-go meals. The concept is casual, with a focus on fast service without sacrificing quality.
The brand positions itself as more upscale than a traditional juice bar but more approachable than a full-service brunch spot.
Where Is Toastique Located in Atlanta?
Toastique is located at 1230 W Peachtree St NE Suite 160. Here is a map to help find it.
Final Bite
Memphis has its barbecue. New Orleans has its gumbo. Atlanta has its lemon pepper wings and much, much more. The largest city in Georgia’s food festivals and culinary events set the tone for the entire Southeast.
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You can’t tell from its exterior, but Jo’s Smokehouse is not your average barbecue joint and food truck.
The new Atlanta restaurant opened August 2, 2024, and is owned by Jonnetta Patton, the mother of musical powerhouse Usher.
Ms. Patton recently held a grand opening for the eatery, which is located in Doraville.
Yes, Usher, as well as his brother Grammy-nominated producer James “JLack” Lackey, we’re on hand to support their mother’s entrepreneurial venture.
“J’s SMOKEHOUSE grand opening,” Ms. Patton shared on Instagram. “Head Chef Greg Dennis BBQ Ribs and Brisket were a Hugh hit and Usher dropped in during the live celebration!!! I was very happy and appreciative for all the support from everyone in attendance. We are now open so drop in for lunch or dinner between 11am to 8pm Monday – Saturday at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd.”
Usher was all smiles for fans and customers alike. “So happy to be out here supporting my mom and her new business,” he said to the camera.
Ms. Patton is a businesswoman through and through. Before this, she ran J’s Kitchen Culinary Incubator, which provides commercial kitchen space and equipment to up-and-coming chefs and caterers.
Earlier this summer Patton was honored by Sysco Foods with the Influencer Award for her contributions to the culinary industry.
What’s On the Menu At J’s Smokehouse?
J’s Smokehouse has several traditional menu items like smoked turkey wings, grilled BBB chicken, grilled BBB ribs, fried catfish, grilled sausage and sides like braised collards, kale and more.
“What makes the menu different are our options, are vegan options,” Patton said. “We have pulled pork sandwich and we have a vegan hot dog in the smokehouse. And they are amazing.”
Helming the kitchen, Ms. Patton tapped renown plant-based guru, Chef Greg Dennis.
“We have delicious ribs falling off the bone. Thirteen hours low and slow smoked brisket. Grandma’s delicious southern fried collard greens,” Dennis told local TV station WSB-TV. “I do a seven cheese macaroni blend, I also have a vegan menu.”
Where Is J’s Smokehouse Located?
J’s Smokehouse is located at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd ste 104 B, Atlanta, GA 30340. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Atlanta is no stranger to celebrity-owned restaurants, and Patton said the chef is what makes the difference.
Do you like barbecue? How about Mesquite or smoked brisket on hickory? Check out our Atlanta BBQ Guide.
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Downtown Atlanta is a pretty large area, and so getting from one point to another can be a challenge.
The good news is that when you consider the historic landmarks, cool restaurants and other venues, it’s well worth exploring. But how do you get around?We’re going to show you how you can get around downtown Atlanta (actually this works for Midtown, too).
How To Get Around Downtown Atlanta
If you’re driving into downtown Atlanta, you’re going to have to pay for parking. Here’s where you can park and how much it costs and for how long.
Getting around downtown Atlanta is fairly easy, thanks to various transportation options:
MARTA
MARTA offers both bus and rail services. The rail system has several stations downtown, including Peachtree Center, Five Points (a central hub), and Civic Center. The trains can take you to key areas, including the airport, Midtown, and Buckhead.
You may also wish to take MARTA. Rail prices are $2.50 for a one-way trip. Here are fare prices for trains and buses.
Streetcar
The Atlanta Streetcar runs a 2.7-mile loop through downtown, connecting major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and Georgia State University.
Walking
Downtown Atlanta is pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks. Popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and State Farm Arena are within walking distance of each other.
Scooters and Bikes
E-scooters and bikes from companies like Lime and Bird are available for short trips. They’re a quick option for navigating crowded areas.
There are some rules you need to know before you ride. Lime and Bird are the two most prevalent scooters you’ll along downtown and Midtown streets.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in downtown Atlanta and offer a convenient way to get around.
Uber & Lyft: If you want to take advantage of a ridesharing service, you can do that too. Here are the peak times for ridesharing in Atlanta:
Weekdays
Morning Commute Hours, 6am-9am
- Evening Commute Hours, 4pm-8pm
Weeknights
- Before and after sporting events and concerts.
- Late night, 11pm-3am
Atlanta Shuttle Services
Some hotels and attractions offer free or paid shuttle services that circulate within downtown or nearby neighborhoods.
You can also get around by using the Atlanta Streetcar. Call 404-848-5000 for help with the latest schedule updates or you can click here to login the Mobility Reservation System.
Driving/Parking
If you’re driving, there are multiple parking decks and lots, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Apps like ParkMobile can help you find parking spots.
Tuk Tuks
Tuk Tuks are small electric vehicles that provide a unique and eco-friendly way to explore downtown. They usually operate on a tip basis.
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. Centennial Park is often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Hometown legendary rapper Antwan “Big Boi” Patton will take the stage at the College Football Hall of Fame for the 10th anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest.
The event is set for Saturday, August 23, 2024 and features a free concert from Big Boi, one half of the famous musical duo Outkast.
Football Fest: What To Know Before You Go
Football Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the Big Boi concert kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Join us for a day of entertainment. Enjoy live DJs, the Home Depot GameDay Bus, local team mascots, cheerleaders, inflatables, prize giveaways, and more.
The event is free as part of “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day” and provides the perfect opportunity to see Big Boi perform, along with the unveiling of new exhibits, clinics with Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables, prize giveaways, and much more, all free-of-charge.
Where is The College Football Hall of Fame?
The College Football Hall of Fame is located in downtown Atlanta at 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Atlanta, make sure you grab a bite at one of the top downtown restaurants. You’ll also find plenty to do there every Atlanta weekend.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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Music superstar Usher says he’s had to postpone the Atlanta dates of his Past, Present and Future tour due to injury.
“Earlier this week, I suffered an injury to my neck while rehearsing to provide my fans with the greatest USHER show of all time,” the singer said in a statement.
“My hope was that with physical therapy and medical treatment, I would be able to overcome the injury and be ready for opening night,” Usher posted on social media. “Unfortunately the injury has not healed yet and my doctors have instructed me not to perform any shows this week. The good news is that the doctors are saying that with appropriate rest and treatment, I should be ready to commence the tour in Washington DC on August 20th.”
The Atlanta dates have already been reached for:
See the complete dates of Usher’s tour.
Usher is one of the biggest music stars in the world right now. Who would think that a 20-year music vet would have his biggest year in 2024? That’s Usher, baby. Peace up, A-Town down.
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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