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We used to call them the Aints and that’s what they’ll forever be. A Falcons win in their latest matchup has been the game sweet of late.
The rivalry between the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons is one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in the NFL. It is often referred to as the “Southern Showdown” or “The Battle of the South.” This rivalry has been fueled by regional pride, memorable games, and the fact that both teams often found themselves battling for supremacy in the NFC South.
When the teams square off on Sunday, old wounds will be revisited. (You can stream the game for free)
This article will look back at the rivalry between the Falcons and Saints, which for many years has been mired in mediocrity — but not of late.
Origins of the Rivalry (1960s–1970s)
The Saints and the Falcons first met in 1967, during the Falcons’ second season and the Saints’ inaugural season in the NFL. As two of the NFL’s southernmost teams at the time, geographic proximity naturally bred rivalry, with Atlanta and New Orleans separated by only about 430 miles. Both teams were known for struggling in their early years. From the late 1960s through the 1970s, neither team had much success, often finishing near the bottom of their respective divisions. However, this helped to create an intense rivalry between the two fanbases, as the teams would fight to avoid being the worst in the league.
Escalation in the 1980s
The rivalry gained a higher profile in the 1980s as both teams began to see sporadic success. The Falcons drafted quarterback Steve Bartkowski, while the Saints eventually brought in quarterback Archie Manning, both of whom became faces of their respective franchises. The games between the Saints and Falcons were usually hard-fought and unpredictable, with memorable moments such as the Falcons’ 62-7 rout of the Saints in 1973 and the Saints winning their first-ever game against the Falcons in 1969.
In the 1980s, the competitiveness of the games helped solidify the rivalry. While the Saints remained without a playoff appearance until 1987, the Falcons had some playoff success, but the rivalry continued to be fierce due to the passionate fanbases.
The 1991 NFC Wild Card Game: A Turning Point
One of the most famous moments in the rivalry’s history came during the 1991 NFC Wild Card game. The Falcons and Saints met in the playoffs for the first time, with the Saints hosting their first-ever playoff game after a 12-4 season. The Falcons, under head coach Jerry Glanville and led by quarterback Chris Miller, came into the game as underdogs. In a hard-fought and emotional contest, the Falcons pulled off a stunning 27-20 victory, with Miller throwing a game-winning touchdown to Michael Haynes. This loss for the Saints was devastating, as it marked the end of a historic season. It fueled the hatred between the fanbases even more.
1990s and Early 2000s: The Rivalry Stays Heated
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the rivalry remained intense, even as the teams went through periods of success and struggle. The Saints were led by quarterback Bobby Hebert and later by Aaron Brooks, while the Falcons saw the rise of quarterback Chris Chandler, who helped take them to the Super Bowl in 1998.
Despite the teams’ varying success, the rivalry games were often close and unpredictable. For example, the Saints beat the Falcons in 1999, the same season in which the Falcons had just come off their Super Bowl appearance, showing the “any given Sunday” nature of the rivalry.
The Arrival of Drew Brees and Michael Vick (2000s)
The rivalry took on new life in the mid-2000s with the arrival of two franchise-altering quarterbacks: Michael Vick for the Falcons and Drew Brees for the Saints. Vick, an electrifying playmaker, turned the Falcons into one of the most exciting teams in the NFL during the early 2000s. Meanwhile, Brees helped to revive the Saints’ franchise when he joined in 2006, leading them to their first-ever Super Bowl victory in the 2009 season.
The games between Vick and Brees added a new layer of excitement to the rivalry. One notable game came in 2006, when the Saints returned to the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina in an emotional Monday Night Football matchup against the Falcons. The Saints dominated the game, winning 23-3, with the blocked punt by Steve Gleason becoming one of the most iconic moments in Saints history. This game further solidified the Saints’ resurgence and added emotional depth to the rivalry.
Super Bowl Era: Saints’ Dominance (2010s)
During the 2010s, the Saints, led by Drew Brees and head coach Sean Payton, largely dominated the rivalry, but the Falcons had their moments as well. The Saints consistently made the playoffs, winning several division titles and often beating the Falcons along the way. However, the Falcons had their own success, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance in the 2016 season. Although they infamously lost the game to the New England Patriots after leading 28-3, their rivalry with the Saints only grew stronger.
The games between the Saints and Falcons during this period were often marked by high drama, close finishes, and playoff implications. In 2011, for example, the Saints secured a playoff berth by beating the Falcons in a dramatic overtime victory. In 2018, the Saints beat the Falcons on Thanksgiving in front of a national audience, further fueling the competitive fire between the two teams.
The Post-Brees Era and Continued Rivalry
As both franchises entered the 2020s, the rivalry continued to evolve. Drew Brees retired after the 2020 season, marking the end of an era for the Saints. Meanwhile, the Falcons had already moved on from Matt Ryan, and they began a rebuilding process. Even in this period of transition, the games between the Saints and Falcons remained fiercely competitive, with each team looking to spoil the other’s season, regardless of records.
The Saints and Falcons rivalry stands out for its passion, unpredictability, and the way it has reflected the ups and downs of both franchises. It’s not just about wins and losses; it’s about regional pride and the connection between two cities that have had their share of struggles but always rally behind their teams. It is one of the few NFL rivalries where the games matter not only for playoff positioning but for the bragging rights that extend beyond football and into the culture of both cities.
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Hurricane Helene roared through metro Atlanta as a tropical storm with sustained winds of almost 70 mph early Friday. In its wake, the storm left downed power lines, flooded streets and thousands without power.
Gov. Brian Kemp said Friday during a news conference that there have been 11 confirmed fatalities, including a first responder.
More than 975,000 customers are currently without power across Georgia, due to Helene. We’ve been watching outages increase over northeast Georgia over the last couple of hours.
Of the notable landmarks that were affected were these:
Canoe restaurant in Vinings
Canoe restaurant was flooded from the nearby Chattahoochee River, which overflowed due to the constant raining Thursday evening and Friday morning.
Hanover West residents had to be rescued as well, according to Atlanta media. Hanover West is comprised of about 100 homes developed originally in the 1960s, sitting along Peachtree Creek just north of Defoors Ferry Road.
In Buckhead
In Buckhead, several homes and apartments were damaged from flash flooding. Apartment dwellers even had to be rescued by boat crews early Friday.
In Brookhaven, Buford Highway had to be shut down due to excessive flooding as well.
A Fox meteorologist saved a woman’s life after floodwaters nearly overcame her near Buckhead. Weatherman Bob Van Dillen recently performed a heroic rescue during the live coverage of Hurricane Helene.
While reporting in Atlanta amidst rising floodwaters, Van Dillen heard a woman’s cries for help from her car, which was rapidly being submerged. With no time to wait for emergency responders, he rushed into the chest-deep water and carried the woman to safety. She was in shock but unharmed. Her husband later arrived to take her home.
After the storm, check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need assistance.
At Bobby Jones golf course, the greens were inundated with water from the nearby creek.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said Friday morning that the city workers have been dispatched to help residents stranded in their homes.
“From all the crews that were out there, they were all in danger throughout the night and so we made sure that they took safety precautions as they rendered care to others,” he said.
Heavy winds also took down powerlines and some traffic lights, creating more havoc.
In Cobb County, government officials implored residents to stay off the roads until midday as waters were slow to recede.
Kemp said that more than 1 million electricity meters were without power around middway. In metro Atlanta, residents were to expect intermittent breezes through the afternoon, so additional power outages are possible.
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By Thursday evening, Hurricane Helene’s maximum sustained winds had increased to 130 mph and had reached Category 4 status as it approached the Florida coast. Metro Atlanta’s power outages reached into the thousands.
Much of the Southeast was poised to get battered as Hurricane Helene spiraled closer to landfall. Weather experts say the storm is approaching Category 2 force-winds as the Gulf Coast system has caused rainfall as far away as Georgia and South Carolina.
In Atlanta and parts of North Georgia, residents are bracing for more rain throughout the evening as well as the risk of tornadoes. Helene has a well-formed eye and is expected to be a Category 3 storm when it hits land.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement that, “As Hurricane Helene strengthens, it’s likely that all parts of Georgia will be impacted in the coming days. I have directed state agencies to ensure we are fully prepared and ordered activation of the State Operations Center.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said that the city is preparing for the storm by pre-emptively cleaning all storm drainage systems to mitigate any possible flooding.
Helene is projected to strengthen into a major hurricane as it enters the Gulf of Mexico, making landfall late Thursday near Florida’s Big Bend region, close to Apalachicola. In preparation for the storm’s potential impacts, Georgia’s governor has declared a State of Emergency to allocate resources for responding to Helene-related issues.
Tropical Storm Helene formed in the Caribbean Sea as of 11 a.m. Tuesday, with winds reaching 50 mph and stronger gusts. The storm is moving west-northwest at 12 mph and is expected to pass between Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula early Wednesday.
How Will Helene Affect Metro Atlanta?
Tropical Storm Helene is now forecast to remain a tropical storm as it tracks through north Georgia Friday morning. Bands of rain will hit metro Atlanta’s western side by Wednesday atfternoon.
There will be some localized flooding in different areas around metro Atlanta Thursday afternoon and into Friday. In addition to heavy rain, there will be the potential for tornadoes as well.
Helene: How To Stay Safe
Create a plan that includes evacuation routes, communication methods, and a designated meeting place for your family.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Assemble a kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents.
If you can afford it, a portable generator may come in handy during an outage.
Board up windows and doors, and bring in outdoor furniture and decorations to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Avoid Flood-Prone Areas
Stay away from low-lying areas that are prone to flooding and heed any evacuation orders from local authorities.
During the storm, remain inside and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay away from windows and doors.
Monitor Power Outages
Be prepared for potential power outages. Have alternative light sources and keep your phone charged.
Once the storm has passed, watch out for hazards like downed power lines, flooding, and debris.
Stay Away from Floodwater
Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
After the storm, check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need assistance.
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Not far from Atlanta is a great Alabama city called Opelika. We frequent it often as it’s between our two destinations of Atlanta, Georgia, and New Orleans, Louisiana.
If you’re ever in central Alabama, you might wonder what’s there to see and do in Opelika.
Where Does Opelika Get Its Name?
Opelika gets its name from its Native American origins. In the 1830s before the Natives were forced from the land, the area was known by its Muskogee name, “Large Swamp.”
While it’s no longer a large swamp, Opelika slowly but surely became a city due to the traffic a nearby railroad stop brought to the area. Now, thanks to nearby Auburn, the area is bustling with activity all times of the year.
Here Are Some Cool Things To Do In Opelika/Auburn
Visit Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux
3041 Capps Way, Opelika, AL 36804
One of the best restaurants you’ll find in Opelika is Walk-Ons, which was started by two former LSU athletes. The restaurant features some great fried seafood dishes that are true to its Cajun roots.
We had the Seafood Platter, Sweet Potato Fries, Eddys Sangria and more.
Here’s what one customer says about Walk-Ons. “Delicious! We sat at the bar and enjoyed an adult beverage. (Raspberry lemonade, I highly recommend) Our service and food was great. We definitely will back again. Great atmosphere for the whole family. Arcade games for the kids and TVs with games for the men to watch.”
Good Times Bowling
750 E Glenn Ave, Auburn, AL 36830
Although it’s not technically in Opelika, Good Times is close enough. The bowling alley features plenty of games, lanes and a full bar with some pretty decent food.
Buc-ees
2500 Buc-ee’s Blvd, Auburn, AL 36832
Perhaps you’ve heard of Buc-ees? It’s a very successful mega-gas station (120+ fueling stations) that has a ginormous amount of cooked and frozen food all themed around a beaver mascot. Did we mention that Buc-ee’s is open all night long?
When we went to Buc-ees I tried all I could, including the Beaver Nuggets, the Brisket Sandwich, the Sliced Brisket, the coffee, the Chicken Sandwich and more.
Chewacla State Park
124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
For a more serene and natural look at the area, you’ve got to check out Chewacla State Park. Known as a great fishing spot, Chewala State Park features a 26-acre lake where you can swim, fish and get some boating in.
Jordan-Hare Stadium
251 S Donahue Dr, Auburn, AL 36849
If you’re around the Opelika/Auburn area anywhere from September to early December, you’ll no doubt get swept up in some football, Auburn football to be exact.
The sights and sounds of Jordan-Hare Stadium, one of America’s largest stadium’s (88,000+ capacity), are one of the wonders of the Southeast. Come for the football, stay for the victory cries of “War Eagle!”
Final Word
Opelika and Auburn both make up a progressive and diverse area of Alabama. The university’s presence has risen the profile of the community and also brought some great places to eat and things to do to the area. If you’re driving down I-85, stop on by!
Because of its location, Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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Revolt World is happening in Atlanta, Georgia, this weekend. The dates for the star-studded event are from Friday, September 20 – Sunday, September 22.
Revolt World bills itself as a one-of-a-kind event celebrating the intersection of culture, creativity, and community.
This year’s event, themed “We Are the Future,” is set to return to Atlanta, GA at Pangaea Studios from Friday, September 20th – Sunday, September 22nd. Presented by Walmart, the event will feature a dynamic talent lineup of today’s biggest names including Boosie, Key Glock, Cash Cobain, Mariah The Scientist, Offset, Byron Messia, Lay Bankz, Lady London, Law Roach, Speedy Morman and more.
Participants can also look forward to exclusive live tapings of popular REVOLT shows like “Caresha Please,” “Drink Champs,” “The Blackprint,” “Baller Alert Live,” and “Big Facts.” The event will include specially curated spaces for gamers, podcasters, creators, along with unparalleled career-building programs, furthering REVOLT’s mission to empower and inspire the Black community.
“REVOLT is home for the next generation of creators and cultural leaders actively shaping Hip Hop and youth culture globally,” said Detavio Samuels, CEO of REVOLT. “We believe in creating the future we want to see by providing our community access to experiences like REVOLT World that introduces a new category of cultural events that not only entertains and informs, but truly changes lives.”
Friday’s Schedule
- 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm | The Future of Podcasting w/ Rodney Rikai, Ray Daniels, Lalaa Shepard, Stacey Ike & Aaliyah Duah | Creator Studio
- 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm | DJ Tori Brixx Performance | WORLD Stage
- 5:00 pm – 5:45 pm Ari Fletcher Cooking Show Live w/ Lil Duval | REVOLT Stage
- 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Trap Karaoke Live Show w/ Mouse Jones & DJ Money
- 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm American SESH w/ Pinky Cole & Derrick Hayes | Creator Studio
- 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm Drink Champs Live w/ N.O.R.E., DJ EFN & Method Man |REVOLT Stage | 8:00 pm
- 10:00 pm Women Are The Future Performance w/ Flo Milli, BIA, Lady London, Coi Leray & DJ Tori Brixx
Saturday’s Schedule
- 11:00 am – 1:30 pm | DJ Domo Performance |WORLD Stage
- 11:00 am – 11:30 am | Executive Chat #1 w/ Selena Hill & Josh J1 Radford
- 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Executive Chat #2 w/ Selena Hill & Will Moss
- 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Soulful Soundbath w/ Shabazz Larkin
- 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Free Play
- 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Office Hours
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm DJ Era Performance THE BLOCK
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Izzy the DJ Performance
- 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm Head Shot Studio
- 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm.Guided Breathwork & Movement w/ Christine Campbell
- 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Tekken Tournament & Cosplay Competition
- 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm Creativity Is Inclusive Conversation w/ Malik Brown, Saucy Santana, Dyllón Burnside & Dominique Morgan 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Receipts Live w/ LaLa Milan
- 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm BeenBlackin Performance
- 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm Metta Meditation w/ Shabazz Larkin
- 1:45 pm – 5:00 pm DJ Tone Performance
- 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm The Business Of Beauty Conversation w/ Brii Renee, Maya Smith & Brian Smith
- 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Next GEN Performances w/ TravQue, Justice Baiden, Bangladesh, Dina Marto & Norva Denton
- 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm S-T-A-R-R-Y Basketball Tournament w/ Mariah Rose
- 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Baller Alert Show Live w/ Ferrari Simmons, You Know BT, Octavia March & Sukihana
- 2:30 pm – 3:10 pm Wellness Panel w/ Elena Brown, Ashley Larkin, Elena Lakay & Danny Fluke Jr.
- 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm Content To Cashflow Masterclass w/ NéAndré Broussard
- 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Women at the Intersection Of Music, Anime, and Gaming
- 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm Izzy the DJ Performance
- 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm Soulful Soundbath w/ Shabazz Larkin
- 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm BHEN Block Party Curated By Yams w/ Brian Henry, Yams, Lay Bankz, Mariah the Scientist & Durand Bernarr
- 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm Smart Money Masterclass w/ Ian Dunlap
- 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm Mixology Competition w/ The Bar Keys & DJ Domo
- 5:45 pm – 6:30 pm The Blackprint w/ Detavio Samuels & Cam Newton
- 6:30 pm – 7:15 pm Building A Lifestyle Brand w/ Walter J. Tucker & Pusha T
- 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Big Facts Live Show w/ DJ Scream, Baby Jade, Big Bank & Skilla Baby
- 7:00 pm – 10:15 pm Future Of Hip Hop Show w/ Offset, Key Glock, Cash Cobain, 42 Dugg & Rob49
- 7:30 pm – 8:30 p m Black Women in Tech Talk DEI w/ Tiffany Cross
Sunday’s Schedule
- 11:00 am – 1:00 pm BeenBlackin Performance
- 11:00 am – 11:30 am Executive Chat #4 w/ Selena Hill & Eshena Roman
- 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Free Play
- 11:30 am – 12:00 pm Executive Chat #5 w/ Selena Hill & Sylvia Brownlee
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm DJ Era Performance
- 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Black Women Talk Tech
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm NCAA 25 Tournament
- 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm Embodied Movement w/ Malaika Floyd
- 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm Head Shot Studio
- 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm The Black Debate w/ Tezlyn Figaro & Gary Chambers
- 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Sunday Service w/ Pastor Mike Jr.
- 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Career Fair
- :00 pm – 4:30 pm EA Sports College Football 25 Tournament & Madden 25 Tournament
- 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Izzy the DJ Performance
- 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm A Parking Lot Pimpin Special w/ Lynae Vanee & Jasmine Crockett
- 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Sound Bath Meditation w/ LeNaya Crawford
- 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm New Era Of Entertainment Masterclass w/ Speedy Morman & Cam’Ron
- 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm Madden 25 Tournament
- 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm Mindfulness Meditation w/ Ashley Larkin
- 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Caresha Please Live w/ Boosie Badazz
- 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm BeenBlackin Performance
- 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm Jerk X Jollof Global Show w/ Byron Messia
- 5:00 pm – 5:45 pm The Future Of Fashion Fireside Conversation w/ Domo Wells, Law Roach & Kollin Carter
- 5:00 pm – 5:45 pm Future State Of Hip Hop Gaming w/ Ms. Basketball & ScHoolBoy Q
- 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Free Play
Walmart returns as the presenting partner, joined by major sponsors including PepsiCo’s portfolio of brands, McDonald’s, and State Farm. PepsiCo’s supporting brands include Starry™, who will complete the Starry FizzFest™ Competition – awarding HBCU student finalists and one grand prize winner, Doritos,®, who will help bold creators unleash their full potential at the Creator Studio, and Mountain Dew™, who will continue to support the gaming and streaming community through the Gaming Zone. McDonald’s will debut a space at REVOLT WORLD to engage fashion contributors, highlighting participants’ unique styles and McDonald’s investment in Black fashion designers, along with the return of the beloved fry truck.
Last year’s event attracted over 30,000 participants throughout the weekend and delivered endless viral moments and learning opportunities, and this year promises to bring an even greater impact.
Immerse Yourself In Your AtlantaAtlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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In a raid on the Miami and Los Angeles mansions of Sean “Diddy” Combs earlier this year, law enforcement officials confiscated narcotics and more than 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant. Officials allege that the drugs and baby oil were used during his “freak off” orgy sessions, which he forced women to join.
Officials made the claims public one day after arresting Diddy in Manhattan. Currently, Diddy is trying to post bail and has offered $50 million — his mansion on Miami’s Star Island (worth $48 million) and his mother’s Miami home ($2 million).
The multimillionaire’s most recent troubles stem from an ongoing lawsuit alleging sexual assault and abuse filed by singer and his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura, which led to significant media attention.
These incidents reflect a mix of criminal, civil, and personal disputes that have involved Diddy, illustrating the complexities and challenges he has navigated throughout his career.
Diddy’s Ties To Atlanta
Through the years, Atlanta has been like a second home to Diddy.
Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, also known as Diddy, has several ties to Atlanta, Georgia, that extend across various facets of his career and influence in the music industry:
Justin’s the Restaurant
Justin’s, an upscale restaurant named after Diddy’s son, opened in 1997 on Peachtree Street in Buckhead. The restaurant was positioned to serve upscale Southern and soul food cuisine, aiming to capture both the local and celebrity clientele.
Justin’s was designed to be a vibrant and stylish establishment, featuring a mix of modern decor with an intimate atmosphere. It quickly became a popular spot for both locals and celebrities
Music and Collaborations
Atlanta has been a significant hub for hip-hop and R&B, genres in which Diddy has been deeply involved. He has collaborated with several Atlanta-based artists, including artists from the famed labels like LaFace Records and So So Def, helping to bridge connections within the music scene.
Events and Shows
Diddy has hosted and participated in various events and concerts in Atlanta, recognizing the city as a vital market for his music and business ventures.
Cultural Influence
Atlanta’s rich culture in hip-hop and the music scene has influenced Diddy’s work as a producer and entrepreneur, leading to collaborations that expand his reach and impact on the genre. 4. **Business Ventures**: Diddy has shown interest in the Atlanta market through business ventures, including his involvement in establishments that cater to music and entertainment.
Final Word
This crisis may be too much for Combs, who has also participated in community and philanthropic efforts in Atlanta, to overcome. Overall, while he is primarily associated with New York, particularly through Bad Boy Records, Diddy’s connections to Atlanta are significant due to the city’s role in shaping hip-hop culture and music.
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The Athlete’s Foot held a grand opening for its new corporate headquarters, flagship location and community center in Midtown Atlanta on Friday, September 13, 2024.
The Athlete’s Foot Opens in Atlanta
“We are thrilled to unveil our new US headquarters, flagship store, and community center in the heart of Midtown Atlanta,” said Matt Lafone, President and GM of Americas at The Athlete’s Foot. “This location is the first of its kind on Atlanta’s iconic BeltLine and will serve as a cultural hub for community engagement and deeper connectivity. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience what The Athlete’s Foot has to offer, from the neighborhood, for the neighborhood.”
Speaking exclusively to AtlantaFi.com, Lafone says the vision for the store is firmly routed in Atlanta’s place in the culture.
“We actually have our corporate headquarters above and the intent is a couple of things,” he said. “No. 1, we want to be closer to the consumer. We get 3 million people passing by us right here on the Beltline and so we get that street customer. Because of the school across the street, we also get that sneaker kid, but you also get a more elevated woman who’s getting her nails down and doing yoga,” he said. “Also this is like a community center. For example, on Tuesdays there might be a tutor that tutors local kids. We might have a local entrepreneur taking about how they got their start. We might have a sneaker customization class. The point is to be a part of the community.”
The Athlete’s Foot has proudly partnered with Black-owned businesses to develop the flagship location, enlisting T. Dallas Smith & Co., the largest black African American-owned commercial real estate firm in the country, to continue its standing collaboration with The Athlete’s Foot on finding locations for new stores focused on underserved black and minority communities. J.M. Lee Construction Co., founded by Morehouse graduate Justin Lee, served as the general contractor, while Atlanta artist Aysha Pennerman will be contributing vibrant murals celebrating local culture. These partnerships reflect The Athlete’s Foot’s commitment to diversity and community and supporting Black entrepreneurship in its growth strategy.
Where Is The Athlete’s Foot in Midtown Located?
The Athlete’s Foot in Midtown is located at 931 Monroe Drive, Suite 113E, Atlanta, GA 30308. Here is a map to help you find it.
Nestled in the heart of Midtown, this new establishment promises to be a cornerstone for retail excellence and community engagement.
Strategically located on the iconic Atlanta Beltline and Piedmont Park, the new location aims to integrate seamlessly into the fabric of the neighborhood. The Athlete’s Foot plans to implement community enrichment, sponsorships, educational programming underscoring their commitment to supporting local communities and fostering meaningful connections. Grand opening events and ribbon-cutting festivities took place from September 12th through September 14th.
Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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Atlanta rapper Rich Homie Quan’s funeral was held Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, just outside Atlanta. A bevy of Atlanta celebrities, including rappers and other luminaries came out to pay their respects. Comedian Young DC Fly spoke passionately about Quan as did Killer Mike.
Quan, whose real name was Dequantes Lamar, was found unresponsive lying on a couch on Sept. 5, by his girlfriend, Amber Williams, with whom he shared a home, reported TMZ.
In an audio recording of the 911 call, Williams can be heard saying, he “was not breathing” and, “I don’t feel a heartbeat. I don’t see him breathing,” she’s heard saying. She says he “foamed at the mouth” when she turned him over.
Because of the funeral, several roads in South Fulton will be closed.
Getting around the City of South Fulton will be a task on Tuesday as a very popular Atlanta rapper is prepared to be laid to rest.
Rich Homie Quan’s funeral is set to be a true celebration of life. While the service at World Changers Church International on Burdett Road is free, fans were sold tickets to attend three separate viewings ahead of it. Each one has sold out.
Here are the funeral details:
- Date and Time: Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024
- Public Viewing: 7 a.m.
- Location: World Changers Church International
- Address: 2500 Burdett Rd, College Park, Ga. 30349
To gain entry inside the service, attendees must RSVP via richhomiequan.com. A public viewing will begin at 7 a.m.
A massive turnout is expected, which will affect traffic in the area.
Traffic Impact for South Fulton
From 10 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., and then again between 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., the following intersections of Old National will be shut down:
- Burdett Road
- Pleasant Hill
- Road Surrey Trail
- Jerome Road
- Jolly Road
- Old Bill Cook Road
South Fulton drivers should expect to experience delays. There will also be an increased South Fulton presence with officers patrolling throughout the city and along the Old National Corridor to be able to respond to any incidents. The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office and College Park Police Department will assist.
Who Was Rich Homie Quan?
Rich Homie Quan was born on October 4, 1989. The rapper and songwriter was from Atlanta, Georgia. He gained popularity in the early 2010s with his breakout mixtape Still Going In (2012) and singles like “Type of Way” and “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh).” Quan was known for his melodic style, blending hip-hop with elements of R&B.
He was part of the Rich Gang collective, collaborating with artists like Young Thug and Birdman. The group’s mixtape Rich Gang: Tha Tour Pt. 1 (2014) was widely acclaimed, and Quan’s career took off with several commercial successes.
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If you’re from Atlanta or a longtime resident, you’ve heard of Big Oomp Records, which is responsible for the success of many rappers in the city. Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson is the name behind the music brand and now he can add the title “restaurateur.”
On Friday, September 6, 2024, Roberson opened Big Oomp Studio Kitchen (BOSK), a smashburger restaurant, in southwest Atlanta. It also has chicken wings, hot dogs, salads and eggrolls, making it one of the more interesting new Atlanta restaurants you want to check out.
What’s On the Menu at Big Oomp Studio Kitchen?
The menu at Big Oomp Studio Kitchen features a variety of smashburgers — huge burgers oozing with melted cheese and stacked with the trimmings. You’ll love the names of them too, which pay homage to to Atlanta like no other. There’s the Big Oomp Burger, the Cascade Burger, the SWATS Burger, AUC Burger and more.
Check out Big Oomp Studio Kitchen’s menu.
During the grand opening, BOSK had Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens to stop by and try the food. In a statement, he said, “Atlanta, we have a new spot for you to check out! We just celebrated the grand opening of BOSK in Southwest Atlanta. Congrats to Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson and his family for bringing their vision to life. BOSK isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a cultural experience, blending food, art, and music in a way that reflects the heart of Atlanta. Here’s to the next chapter in Southwest Atlanta!”
Roberson isn’t done yet. He reportedly has plans to expand BOSK into a neighboring space to add a hookah and cigar lounge, and to open additional locations around the metro Atlanta.
Where Is BOSK Located?
BOSK is located at 510 Fairburn Road, Suite 400, Atlanta. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
In 1996, Big Oomp co-founded Big Oomp Records along with DJ Jelly and MC Assault. Roberson is the president and co-founder of the label. Now, he’s building a food empire as his eatery joins a stable of other celebrity-owned restaurants in Atlanta.
The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.
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Something delicious has been happening in Sandy Springs for the summer of 2024, specifically in July. That’s when SocialBites Food Hub opened its doors.
The establishment’s first floor has four different food concepts to eat from, all of them with different menus. There’s also a bar upstairs with evenings of live music and Trivia Night.
SocialBites founder Aziz Hashim insists that the place is not a food hall, which Atlanta has a few of.
Now Serving in Sandy Springs: SocialBites Food Hub
“SocialBites is not a food hall, but a food hub, where people can enjoy the convenience of ordering from all of our restaurants at one point of purchase and receiving tableside service instead of standing or waiting near a counter,” Hashim told Eater Atlanta. “Paired with engaging games and programming, SocialBites offers an enhanced experience from that of a food hall or fast casual dining.”
Wondering what the vibe is like? Here’s what one reviewer says about SocialBites Food Hub:
“Cool little “food hub” which is basically a restaurant where you can pick from 4 different types of food- Fried Chicken, Pizza, Burgers, and Tacos! The variety is fun. In terms of cost, prices are reasonable, but portions are relatively small- if you’re an average man, you won’t be going home with leftovers. The staff is still learning, but they’re friendly and determined to make things right- when our order of cauliflower came out insanely spicy, the manager made it right with another order and a free set of onion rings! That’s the kind of service that will help this place succeed.
In terms of flavor- I think that another pass needs to be done on the food to upgrade the flavor level- the sharables were great, but the birria tacos didn’t have that delicious flavor that you get from other spots. The food was definitely good, just lacking flavor. I’ll be coming back later to see if the flavor improves!
I’d also recommend that this store owner develop their “showstopper” for the restaurant. Right now, they need something that is SUPER shareable and very aesthetic for social media. I’d recommend something like a crazy Bloody Mary, like the other viral ones- or wacky food combos that could use the varieties of food there. Or, upgrade the look of your shakes to really make people want to take pictures.
Atmosphere feels a little empty at the moment. The store needs a bit more character and fun- maybe more games, arcade games, or some neon vibes. Two different music speakers were playing different songs inside the store- one per each level- which was a bit strange at times.”
Where Is SocialBites Food Hub Located?
SocialBites Food Hub is located at 6650 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Bite
Food hubs and food halls proliferate around Georgia’s largest city, but so do standalone restaurants. This is the most fun food scene outside of the Northeast. Not only can you take advantage of the plethora of cool food places on Atlanta’s southside, but the north side is where it’s at when it comes to fine dining and authentic ethnic food of all sorts.
Want more food suggestions? Check out the best restaurants in Sandy Springs.