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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The Omicron variant continues to spread across the United States, including right here in Atlanta. If you feel sick, remember to call your doctor and schedule an appointment. This article is going to tell you what Omicron symptoms you should look out for as well as what to do if you feel ill.
Omicron Variant: Here’s What You Should Know
There is a lot of misinformation out there, so for this article, we’ve relied on the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) for guidance.
In large cities like Atlanta and others, the Omicron variant is spreading more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and that’s because it’s more contagious.
What Are The Omicron Symptoms?
While health organizations across the world continue to study the illnesses, Omicron symptoms are based on whether you’re vaccinated or not, according to CDC data. If you’ve had the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines and catch Omicron, you’re likely to experience the following symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
If you’ve had the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you’re like to experience the following symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
The CDC is on record as having a clinical preference for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines over the J&J, mainly due to the latter’s less stellar performance against the variants.
Can Vaccinated People Still Get Omicron?
Yes, fully vaccinated people, including those who have gotten a booster shot, can still catch omicron. The CDC calls these “breakthrough infections,” and this has been the case with the Delta variant and will likely be so with others.
With that being said, vaccines continue to be effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death, according to the CDS. The speed at which Omicron is spreading underscores the importance of vaccination and boosters.
What To Do If You Think You Have Omicron
If you’re not feeling well and you suspect that you might have Omicron, the main thing is to not panic. Here are the simple steps you should take, according to the CDC:
Keep Track Of Your Symptoms
It’s very important that you monitor your symptoms so that you can accurately describe what you’re feeling to medical professionals or family members.
Do you have a cough? Does it hurt to breathe? Try to document as much about your experience as you can.
Isolate Yourself
Keep yourself and others safe by staying at home, except to get medical care.
This is not the time to carry on with business as usual. Don’t go to public places like the supermarket or ride public transportation, including Uber.
Contact Your Close Contacts
If your case has been confirmed, it’s a good idea to reach out to your close contacts and let them know that they may have been exposed.
Should You Go To The Doctor?
In many cases, COVID can be managed at home with proper rest, ample fluids and helpful vitamins and nutrients. When you’re starting to feel severely sick, you should go to your local clinic or hospital, especially if you experience any of the following:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin ton
Final Word
Preventative measures are still the best thing you can do in a pandemic. Like all the variants, even if you are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms, you can still spread omicron to others, so it’s imperative that you continue to:
- Wear a mask.
- Social distance.
- Wash your hands.
Continue to stay safe indoors as well as outdoors. Nurture your mental and emotional health as well.
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Looking for a wig that will last for a while? Let me introduce you to Outre wigs, which I have been using for a few years. If you’re looking for a wig that is durable, the Outre wig is one of the better brands of hairpieces sold online.
In this article, we’re going to go over what makes Outre wigs so special as well as tell you a little about the company.
Are Outre Wigs Good?
Outre wigs are known for their ability to withstand fair amounts of heat and other effects of the weather. That makes them very valuable for people who are on the go.
The brand specializes in wigs as well as hair weaves, braids, and additions. While Outre wigs are for everyone, they are especially popular among black women.Here’s what one reviewer says about her Outre wig: ” I can’t believe I once paid over $1500 for this same look on my real hair in Beverly Hills! This wig is a little thinner than expected but that’s ok. For $30 it’s a one and done wig and is a nice one to add to my collection. I own several wigs, ranging from $30-1000 and believe me, this is a great one and a steal!”Are Outre Wigs Made Out Of Human Hair?
Outre wigs are typically made out ot 100% human hair. Although their are some synthetic varieties.Let’s look at some of the different styles of Outre wigs available online.
Outre Neesha Soft & Natural Synthetic Swiss Lace Front Wig
Outre Neesha Soft & Natural Synthetic Swiss Lace Front
Outre Melted Hairline Lace Front
Blonde Contour Lace Front
Frontal Effect Hairline
What Is A Human Hair Blend?
Some people who prefer the Outre brand or similar ones, may be confused about what human hair blends are.
Human hair blends are typically a combination of synthetic strands mixed with human hair. The human hair usually is comprised of damaged cuticles that are supplemented by the synthetic strands.Final Word
Outre wigs have a reputation for being luxurious, thus they’re typically worn for big events or special occasions, but you can wear them anywhere.While they are popular, Outre is not the only top brand of wig there is. Here are some other wigs you might like.The Atlanta hair industry is one of the largest in the Southeast, with more than 8 million people getting groomed each month.
But you can do it yourself. All you need are some quality shears and some high-performance clippers to get the job done. Check out our Beauty Page for other ways to get shaped up.
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So you’re about to sign a new lease agreement to rent a place of your own. You’re about to get the keys. All you have to do is sign the lease.
Before you do, there are some very important things you need to know.When Do You Sign The Lease To An Apartment?
You sign the lease to an apartment when you’ve made sure you can afford the place and the terms are favorable to you. Many tenants skip this step and it comes back to bite them.
Please know that when you sign an apartment lease, you’re agreeing to a contract. That means you’ll be legally bound to follow what’s in the lease.
The landlord has done all he or she could to get you to sign up for a new apartment. Perhaps they’ve taken you to the pool area and tried to impress you with the courtyard. Maybe you’ve been treated to the excellent fitness center or community room with a huge bar and billiards table.Before you sign the dotted line, you should remember to make sure you know the following things:1. Know Who You’re Renting From
Landlords will typically do a background check on you before they decide to rent to you. They want to know what type of person you are and more importantly, whether you’re a criminal.For the same reasons, you should do some research on your prospective landlord as well.Go to a website like RateMyLandlord, landlord online or ReviewMyLandlord.com to see what you can find out about your landlord before you sign the dotted line.2. Document The Property’s Condition
Many landlords will not disclose cosmetic damage that is hidden or undetected by the tenant. That’s why you should look for things that could be broken or damaged in the apartment.Once you find something that is already damaged, make sure it’s written down in the lease.This will legally protect you in the future if there is a dispute about the condition of the property.3. Make Sure You Know About All Fees
In addition to your monthly rent, many landlords will tack on other fees and charges not specified in the lease.For example, there may be a service fee to use the trash chute. There also could be a service charge to use the washing machines.Make a list of all the charges associated with your rent. Total it up so you can see how much renting there is actually costing you.Final Word
Getting a new place is not as simple as looking online and asking to sign the lease. Your money, and more importantly, your safety, should be guaranteed beforehand. -
If it’s time for you to re-up on your apartment lease, you may be able to stop a payment increase or even lower it. The main thing you should keep in mind is that an open line of communication can open the door to rent savings for you.This article will show you some steps you can take to negotiate your rent.4 Ways You Can Negotiate Your Rent Price
I don’t have to tell you how rent prices continue to affect the economic landscape in metropolitan cities like Atlanta and other areas. Rent prices typically always go up and never come down, so any relief you can bake into your lease is something you should pursue.Let’s go over some ways you can work out an arrangement to lower your rent.Can I Negotiate My Rent?
I know what you’re thinking: Are rent prices negotiable? Everything, including rent prices, is negotiable. The way to get what you want is to have something of value that your landlord wants or needs in return.The truth is that few things are given to us in the world, and that includes opportunities to save money. You have to make the effort to save money to be help your finances.1. Offer Your Services
Are you a chef? Do you own a side business? Whatever you do, see if you can offer your services to your landlord in exchange for cheaper rent.Here are some things you may be able to do for your landlord:- Paint the interior or exterior of your place.
- Do some on-the-side plumbing work.
- Lawn care or other maintenance services.
2. Offer To Sign A Longer Lease
Another way you can negotiate a cheaper rent rate is to agree to sign a longer lease.For example, if you would normally sign a lease for one year, offer to sign for 18 months. The landlord will see the extra money he or she can make.3. Agree To Pay A Lumpsum
Most landlords will take a deal that includes them getting a lumpsum payment. Of course, you’ll want to reduce the overall payment in exchange for a lump sum.For example, if your rent is $1,000 a month, then instead of incrementally paying $12,000 for the year, you could offer to pay $10,000 in cash. The landlord may not be able to pass up an opportunity to make that kind of money instantly. Also they may reason that the cash can help them pay for some other expense that needs immediate attention.4. Write A Letter To Your Landlord
Why not just ask your landlord to lower the rent? This should be done in writing so that there’s a documented record of the request.
You can simply make a petition based on your current or projected income and other specific circumstances. Make sure you tell them how much you love your apartment and what you like best about the property.
Also, tell them specifically how much you’d like taken off your rent so that there’s no confusion.. If you’re nice about, the landlord just may consider, especially if they value you as a tenant.
5. Offer To Live In Another Unit
Another way you can knock off some of your rent money is to negotiate moving into another unit that is less expensive. You could also tell the landlord that you will do minor fixes to the place.
For example, if you’re in a three-bedroom unit, you might consider downsizing to a two-bedroom or one-bedroom if your circumstances allow.
Final Word
Getting a rent reduction can really make a difference in your overall budget. Don’t hesitate to write out all the things you do to improve and beautify your living space. Show it to the landlord so they know the efforts you take to make your apartment livable.
After you negotiate your rent, it’s time to move into your new place.
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Award-winning TV series Atlanta FX is scheduled to resume in Spring 2022, according to the top exec at the network.
The series, which stars metro Atlanta native Donald Glover, has been on hiatus for more than a two years following the death of the actor’s father.
Here’s When Atlanta FX is Coming Back
In 2020, like the rest of TV land, production was halted due to COVID-19.
Now, according to FX, Atlanta will premiere on Thursday, March 24. The season will premiere with two new episodes back to back.
“We are thrilled to have Atlanta back with a new season on March 24th,” Eric Schrier, President, FX Entertainment, is quoted as saying.
FX Networks and FX Productions chairman John Landgraf said in 2020 on a virtual conference that the show would begin filmIng again in early 2021. After more delayed, filming did begin.
Seasons 3 and 4 were filmed back to back, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Glover is an executive producer on the FX Productions show, which is also helmed by Hiro Murai, Paul Simms, Stephen Glover (Donald’s brother) and Dianne McGunigle.
The last season of the show won an Emmy and cemented its place in cable TV pantheon.
“With Atlanta Robbin’ Season, Donald and his collaborators elevated the series to even greater heights, building on the enormous success of their award-winning first season,” FX Networks and FX Productions programming president Nick Grad told media. “We’re grateful to the producers and our extraordinary cast and crew for achieving this level of excellence, and we share the excitement with our audience about the third season knowing they will continue to take us to unexpected and thrilling places.”
How To Watch Atlanta FX
Atlanta FX is available on demand on Hulu. Here’s how to watch.
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With the rise in the Omicron variant, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, using her executive powers, recently reinstituted an indoor mask mandate for the city.
The rules are in line with the latest guidance from the Atlanta-based U.S. Centers for Disease Control, which advising that people who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear face masks and maintain a physical distance in indoor settings and in crowded outdoor settings.
Mayor Uses Executive Order To Re-Institute Mask Mandate In Atlanta
The health agency also recommends that fully vaccinated people resume wearing masks indoors in areas with high COVID-19 cases.
One of the main health protocols people may want to know is this: Do I still need to wear a mask when I’m out?
Do I Still Need To Wear A Mask When Out In Atlanta, Georgia?
The CDC along with the City of Atlanta have released guidance advocating that masks be worn indoors as well as outdoors in crowded areas.
Gov. Brian Kemp has passed laws that ban a mask mandate, so the local restrictions are limited in how far they apply.
Earlier in the year, the CDC caused controversy when it came out with the following guidance:
“Fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance,” the CDC’s guidance says.
This article will answer several important questions you may have about mask-wearing in Atlanta, Georgia during the pandemic.
Should I Still Wear A Mask Outside In Atlanta?
So you may be wondering if you should still wear masks in public in and around Atlanta. Here’s the deal:
- Private businesses — like restaurants and workplaces — can still mandate mask use in their establishments
- Government buildings can likewise still mandate that you wear a mask while inside their facility.
Of course, each of these rules may vary depending on the type of business or ownership’s preferences.
When Should I Wear A Mask Indoors During The COVID Pandemic?
You should wear a mask at all times when indoors during the pandemic. The only exception is when you are actively dining at a restaurant table or bar.
In addition to wearing a mask, you should also practice social distancing of being at least 6 feet apart. But if you’re fully vaccinated, this rule may be omitted.
What Does It Mean To Be Fully Vaccinated?
You may be unclear on what being “fully vaccinated” means. Here’s what the definition:
- 2 weeks after your second dose in a 2-dose series of either the Pfizer or Modern vaccine or…
- 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as the Johnson & Johnson shot
The reason for this time frame is because it usually takes a few weeks after vaccination for the body to build immunity against the COVID-19 virus.
Last Word
So should you still wear a mask out and about in Atlanta? It used to depend on whether you’re fully vaccinated or not. But now, in all cases, health officials say you should wear a mask.
Wearing a mask not only protects you, but it protects other people as well, and many of those you encounter my have compromised immune systems.
So you may be wondering how and were to get your vaccine in Georgia. if so, check this out…
Here’s Where To Buy A Mask Online And Locally
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The Atlanta-filmed blockbuster movie Spider-Man: No Way Home pulled in nearly $600 million at the box office in its first weekend. The official tall was $587 million, according to BoxOfficeMojo.com.
Early reviews indicate that the movie, which stars Zendaya, Marisa Tomei, and Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange, is an epic experience that adds to the lure of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Atlanta-Filmed Spider-Man Rakes In Nearly $600 Million In First Weekend
The movie is a smashing success for movie theaters, which are trying to rebound since the COVID pandemic started.
Here’s where to watch Spider-Man in Atlanta.
Because of the steady flow of movie and TV productions, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and it’s not just a label.. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.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. -
If you love soul food, Delilah’s Everyday Soul is a must-visit on Atlanta’s Upper West Side. The eatery is run by a mother-daughter team who is serious about their craft.
The mastermind behind Delilah’s Everyday Soul is Chef Delilah Winder, who has appeared on several TV food shows and gotten a shoutout by none other than Oprah Winfrey for her mac ‘n cheese.
I recently visited the eatery to see how some of the menu tastes. I ordered the menu’s most popular item, the Southern Belle, which is a loaded chicken sandwich which features a fried green tomato, bacon slab, pimento cheese, mayo, hot sauce and more. Delicious!
Delilah’s Everyday Soul Opens In Chattahoochee Food Works
Delilah’s Everyday Soul opened in November 2021 in the newly christened Chattahoochee Food Works development on Atlanta’s West Side.
The restaurant specializes in delightful styles and variations of fried chicken. The spot is owned by Delilah Winder and Delana Reeve, who are mother and daughter.
What’s On The Menu At Delilah’s
Photo credit: Instagram Delilah’s serves all different types of chicken dishes. On the menu, you’ll find:
- Chicken Sandwich
- Fried Chicken BLT
- Fried Chicken Po’Boy
- 3-Piece Fried Chicken Dinner
- Sides: Mac ‘n Cheese, Collard Greens, Fried Pickles, etc.
Here’s what on reviewer says about Delilah’s Everyday Soul: “We met Jason, the owner, and his beautiful mother and they were the nicest people we’ve met on our trip! Their Mac and Cheese is out of this world; you’ve got to try their food. Family owned, delicious food and great customer service!”
Where Is Delilah’s Everyday Soul Located?
Delilah’s is located at 1235 Chattahoochee BLVD, Atlanta, GA 30318. Here’s a map to help you find it
Final Word
Delilah’s is not Atlanta restaurant with awesome soul food. Check out these soulful restaurants around town.
Atlanta cuisine is some of the best you’ll find in the Southeast, and that’s saying something. The largest city in Georgia’s food festivals and culinary events set the tone for the entire Southeast.
Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.
But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Beyoncé is giving back to a historically black college in Atlanta in a big way. Her partnership with fitness company Peloton means that a slew of schools will get decked-out Peleton bikes rooms on their campuses.
Among them are these Atlanta institutions: Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University.
The move is part of Beyoncé and Peloton’s expansion of their social impact partnership. The bike should all be in place in the coming weeks.
What Schools Will Be Peloton Bikes From Beyoncé?
Here is the list of 10 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that will receive Peloton Bikes.
- Bennett College
- Clark Atlanta University
- Grambling State University
- Hampton University
- Howard University
- Morehouse College
- Morehouse School of Medicine
- Spelman College
- Texas Southern University
- Wilberforce University
Peloton promises to continue to pursue long-term recruiting partnerships across the internship, undergraduate and graduate levels among HBCU students.
Beyoncé, for her part, continues to focus her efforts on giving back through her foundation, BeyGood. To learn more, click here.
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 headed to Midtown Atlanta, one place you should always stop by is Ponce City Market.
We’re going to tell you some things you can do in the winter at Ponce City Market, the crown jewel of Ponce de Leon Avenue.
What To Do At Ponce City Market This Winter
Ponce City Market was built in xxx. Since then it’s become a destination for the residents and visitors alike. And what’s not to like?
Aside from the people watching, the short walk to the Beltine and vast variety of food, you can enjoy yourself at Skyline Park, a rooftop amusement park, which we’ll tell you all about.
Do You Have To Pay To Get Into Ponce City Market?
Entry into Ponce City Market is free. The place combines the aspects of a food hall, mall and flea market all in one. It also has business suites for some high-profile companies, including Twitter.
How Much Is Parking At Ponce City Market?
Now, you do have to pay for parking at Ponce City Market. Here are the latest rates:
- $1 for the first 30 minutes.
- $1 for each 30 minutes after that.
- $10 for 4-8 hours
- $15 for 24 hours.
Now that that is out of the way, here are some great things to do in Ponce City Market this winter.
1. Check Out The Rooftop
Ponce City Market’s rooftop is an exclusive place for those who want to see Midtown’s awesome skyline and take part in some old fashioned fun and games for the whole family.
You’ll find:
- A big slide for the kids.
- A good game of putt putt golf
- Games that give you a chance to win prizes and toys and more
There’s also a great restaurant — 9 Mile Station — atop the building, which happens to be one of the best in Midtown.
How Much Does It Cost To Go To The Roof Of Ponce City Market?
The cost of admission to access the rooftop of Ponce City Market varies depending on your age.
- Free – Kids under 3
- $7 – Kids (12 and under)
- $15 – Adults (over 12)
To pay, you need to enter the glass ticket booth on the ground floor.
2. Skate The Sky Igloos
At Skate the Sky, you can skate to your heart’s content around a real ice rink. And did we mention? There are igloos!!
The rink spans 3,500-square-feet, where guests can enter either as a walk-in from Skyline Park or from Nine Mile Station nearby.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
3. Grab A Drink At Bar Vegan
Bar Vegan, part of the Slutty Vegan empire from entrepreneur Pinky Cole, is a must-visit when you’re in Ponce City Market.As for food, Bar Vegan has a limited menu provided by Dinkies, an imprint that specializes in vegan phillys and tater tots.
Here’s what to know about Bar Vegan before you go.
4. Grab A Burger At H&F Burger
You may have had a good burger in your time, but an H&F Burger is one of the best in the Southeast. Try the Veggie Burger if you’re vegan. It’s excellent.
People rave about the ketchup at H&F as well, if that tells you anything. Seriously. Give this burger a try. They also have a trivia night also every Monday evening.
Here are the best burger joints in Atlanta.
What Are Some Good Places To Eat At Ponce City Market?
5. Go Shopping
Photo credit: Nappy / Pexels.com Ponce City Market has some great retailers that sell everything from clothes to furniture to cosmetics. Here are some of our favorite stores at Ponce City Market.
- Allbirds — Apparel made of renewable materials
- Bombshel — Contemporary West African clothing
- Chubbies — Throwback shorts, shirts and trucks
- JJ’s Flower Shop — Build your own bouquet
- Rejuvenation — Lighting and home goods store
- Warby Parket — glasses and shades
- West Elm — Top-line clothier
Final Word
As you can see, there’s a lot to do at Ponce City Market.
When it comes to COVID-19 protocols, Ponce City Market continues to stick to health and safety guidelines, including requiring guests to wear facemasks in the Central Food Hall; requiring property staff to wear face coverings at all times; providing social distancing signage and hand sanitizer throughout the property; and cleaning and sanitizing the property regularly.
What Is There To Do In Midtown?
Midtown Atlanta is the crown jewel of the city’s housing, entertainment and food happenings.
If you’re looking for something to do in Midtown, no matter whether it’s cheap or exclusive, it’s all here.
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