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Atlanta Restaurateur extraordinaire Pinky Cole-Hayes recently announced that she has taken over The Boujee Southerner, a black-owned vegan restaurant that recently closed its doors.
Cole-Hayes, the owner of Slutty Vegan and Bar Vegan, has plans to turn the restaurant into her second Bar Vegan location.
“When I heard about everything that they [The Boujee Southerner] were going through, I felt the need to step in,” says Cole-Hayes. “Their foundation is built on being a completely plant-based Southern Fusion concept that provides comfort food, which is right up our alley.”
In March 2024, The Boujee Southerner, owned by Tara Gilbert, announced it was reducing its hours of operation to Friday through Sunday after one year in business. Eight days later, the business shared that it had closed.
Gilbert, who has been a raw vegan for several years, will now serve as Executive Chef at Bar Vegan Lawrenceville. This is a full-circle moment as Gilbert looked to Cole-Hayes for inspiration when becoming a vegan and opening her restaurant.
“This is a part of my Restaurant Takeover initiative, where Slutty Vegan or Bar Vegan will take over the lease for existing restaurants that are looking to increase their foot traffic and awareness to the public,” adds Cole-Hayes. “It’s all about collaboration and empowering one another.”
Food featured on the menu includes General Tso Chik’n, White Spaghetti, maple glazed brussels sprouts, loaded steak fries, corn ribs, jerk kabobs and Lemon Pepper Chik’n salad.
“With the menu, we plan to make it leaner, healthier and sexier,” says Gilbert. “We plan to make the food extremely yummy but also appealing to the eyes – so get prepared to snap your photos for social media,” she adds.
Bar Vegan Lawrenceville is officially opened for business.
Cole’s current business portfolio includes 12 Slutty Vegan locations across Georgia, New York, Alabama and Texas, a cookbook and Slutty Vegan products on metro Atlanta Target shelves. In 2022, Cole raised a $25 million Series A funding round for Slutty Vegan that at the time valued her business at $100 million, according to Forbes.
Final Word
We were there when Cole-Hayes opened her first brick-and-mortar Slutty Vegan in the Westview neighborhood of Atlanta in 2019. Since then, she’s been on an amazing expansion plan.
Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are several more. 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.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
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.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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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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If you want to eat fancy, most of us will go for the shrimp and grits. Let’s just get that out of the way. Atlanta, Georgia has several great restaurants that can prepare the dish to perfection with various twists.
But let’s focus on shrimp and grits, which is a Southern delicacy. Grits has long been one of Georgia’s iconic dishes. The addition of the shrimp is likely an addition from that came much later.
6 Restaurants With The Best Shrimp And Grits In Atlanta
This article is going to show you some of the best restaurants in Atlanta that serve shrimp and grits.
Restaurant Holmes
50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 691-8320
Here’s what one customer says about Restaurant Holmes. “The salmon dish was so delicious and presented beautifully. The wine we chose from Paso Robles “If You See Kay” was very good also. Wonderful sitting outside and waiter was really nice and attentive. Great job and highly recommend. Compliments to the chef!”
Flying Biscuit Cafe
1001 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 874-8887
Here is what one reviewer says about the Flying Biscuit: “The grits here are amazing (and I usually don’t like grits) but they are the best thing that we had. The jelly is great tasting also but unfortunately the biscuits are hard and dry and I only used some of it to get the jelly in my mouth. The restaurant could use a thorough cleaning. Be aware that they do require masks and one of the staff was telling customers to get a mask on. That took a star off for me.”
Louisiana Bistreaux
Atlanta Locations:
- 1375 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 574-6210
- 1496 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 963-1463
- 3312 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 941-9545
Here is what one reviewer says about Louisiana Bixtreaux’s shrimp and grits:”A good place for a yummy meal! The chargrilled oysters are fantastic! I would also recommend the “Red fish ponch” and the shrimp and grits!”
South City Kitchen
Atlanta Locations:
- 3350 Peachtree Rd #175, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 815-6677
- 1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 873-7358
- 1675 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | (770) 435-0700
- 9000 Avalon Way, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 722-3602
Here is what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “If your looking for a great bowl of Shrimp & Grits on a cold rainy day or a sunny day you will not be disappointed at South City Kitchen- Best I have had- Comes with homemade Biscuits & Cornbread- Sweet tea to drink – Makes my mouth water just thinking about it- The help is ready to serve you with a smile- Go by and see them today- Your tummy will thank you!!”
Sweet Auburn Seafood
171 Auburn Ave NE P, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (678) 974-5019
Here is what one reviewer says about Sweet Auburn Seafood: “The brunch at Sweet Auburn is great. I know that every place that offers brunch usually has shrimp and grits on the menu, but the shrimp and grits at Sweet Auburn is probably better than all of those places you’ve tried. Give it a try. You wont be disappointed. The service is good. Bottomless mimosas are available. Music is playing. Pretty nice spot.”
Here is what one reviewer says about Old Lady Gang: “My husband and I ordered delivery and were skeptical at first. However, our skepticism was soon put to rest when took our first bite! This food is phenomenal and great if you’re looking for good comfort food! The fish and grits are my new personal favorite, but the rib tips are a close second. Not one thing on our order was anything less than delicious. If you’re in downtown Atlanta, this is a must try! We will definitely order from here again the next time we’re in the area.”Buckhead Diner
3073 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 262-3336
Here is what one reviewer says about Buckhead Diner: “I visit this great restaurant from time to time! This is my favorite place to pass a nice evening. I go there at least once a month. The food is very good, the staff is friendly and the price is affordable. I enjoy being in this spot for a decent meal.”Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
Fast-casual is also the dining trend du jour around metro Atlanta restaurants. The concept involves mixing the quick accessibility of fast food with the casual dining experience. Food in Atlanta is also adapting to the various tastes of the migrants that come here to live.
Read more: 15+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with 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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Festival season continues in Atlanta this weekend with Funk Fest ATL. Keep reading to find out what to expect for a jamming good time.
The two-day event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
What Is Funk Fest?
Funk Fest is an outdoor musical festival celebrating its 25th anniversary with events in Atlanta, Orlando, Florida, Louisville, and Kentucky.
Funk Fest ATL is set for Saturday August 10 and Sunday, August 11, 2024 at Wolfcreek Amphitheater in South Fulton, Georgia.
Who’s Performing for Funk Fest 2024 in Atlanta?
Performing at Funk Fest ATL is Erikah Badu, Big Boi, Goodie Mob, Stokely and the Isley Brothers.
Where Is Wolfcreek Amphitheater?
Wolfcreek Amphitheater is located at 3025 Merk Rd, South Fulton, Georgia 30349. Here is a map to help you find it.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/3025+Merk+Rd+SW,+College+Park,+GA+30349/@33.6752807,-84.5672986,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88f4e02a507f1e81:0xe4db7e4b097a2710!8m2!3d33.6752807!4d-84.5672986!16s%2Fg%2F11c3q3yn_xAtlanta 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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Days after Vice President Kamala Harris appeared in Atlanta at the Georgia State University Convocation Center, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and his Vice Presidential nominee JD Vance held a rally at the same venue.
Trump, speaking to the crowd, said that he would “overfund the police, if we have to,” in a bid to underscore the contrast between himself and Harris.
He also vowed that under his second administration, police would get “federal immunity.”
He also made sure a few Atlanta-based Georgia officials felt his wrath. He singled out Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger for thwarting his efforts to “find” more than 11,000 votes to overturn the 2020 election.
On Gov. Brian Kemp, Trump credited himself with getting him elected.
“He’s a disloyal guy, and he’s a very average governor. Little Brian. Little Brian Kemp. Bad guy,” Trump said.
Kemp also responded to a comment made by Kemp’s wife, who said that Trump had not “earned” her vote.
On social media, Kemp responded to Trump, saying: “My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats – not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.“
You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.
He also went in on Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and former boyfriend Nathan “Loverboy Wade,” as Trump called him.
Saturday’s rally follows Trump’s disastrous performance at a National Association of Black Journalists event earlier in the week in Chicago.
Seconds after being introduced, he said, “You don’t even say hello, how are you? Are you with ABC? Because I think they’re a fake news network. … I love the black population of this country. I’ve done so much for the black population.”
On Saturday, commentators speculated before the event that Trump would use the opportunity to mend his words — and fences with African-American voters still on the fence.
Supporters posted on social media to show crowds of people in the 19,000-seat arena. From videos posted on social media, the venue did not appear packed.
One of the more surreal moments came when Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones said Harris’ pantomime as a black person was akin to Milli Vanilli.
From the looks of the crowd behind him, not everyone was impressed.
Before Trump spoke, supporters, including local Blexit Director Michaela Montgomery, railed against Harris’ appeal to black Americans.
”They don’t want to talk policy, they just want to talk propaganda to steal your vote,” she said.
Just last week, Harris made her sixth visit to Georgia this year, including four weeks ago when she met with former Migos rapper Quavo to talk about how to quell gun violence.
Now she’s coming again, this time with her pick for vice president.
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Rap star Megan Thee Stallion performed a free rally on Tuesday, July 30 for Vice President Kamala Harris.
The rapper announced the performance on Instagram but didn’t give much details, other than that the event is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
This will be Harris’ sixth visit to Georgia this year, including three weeks ago when she met with former Migos rapper Quavo to talk about how to quell gun violence.
Megan Thee Stallion was also in Atlanta earlier this year for The Hot Girl Summer Tour. One of the concert’s two performances was canceled then rescheduled due to the city’s water issues, including a boil water advisory.
After a series that of water main breaks were fixed, Megan added an extra performance in Atlanta to please her fans.
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Fried fish is one of those delicacies that fit right at home on the plate of a Southerner. And Atlanta is “very” Southern, when it comes to its food.
Where can you get some delicious fried fish in Atlanta, Georgia? This article will show you where to go.
Where Can I Find Fried Fish Near Me?
Some of the best places to find fresh fried fish are not on the major boulevards and thoroughfares of the city, but tucked away in neighborhoods and even strip malls.
Don’t be surprised to discovered great fish places right under your nose where you live. Ready to begin?
Louisiana Bistreaux
Atlanta Locations:
- 1375 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 404-762-6755
- 1496 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030, 404-963-1463
- in Buckhead inside a Hampton Inn hotel 404) 941-9545
The closest authenticity to New Orleans-style cuisine is Louisiana Bistreaux. The popular restaurant offers traditional Cajun & Creole dishes, plus wines & local craft beers. The original Louisiana Bistreaux is in East Point on Virginia Avenue. In 2017, another location opened in Decatur.
Vickery’s Bar & Grill
933 Garrett St #101-102, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 627-8818
Here’s what one reviewer says about Vickery’s. “Excellent service and the food was amazing, I had the crab cake sandwich and my hubby had the catfish and grits. Blueberry sunrise and strawberry Cadillac margarita was AMAZING! Go here now!”
South City Kitchen
Atlanta Locations:
- 1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 873-7358
- 3350 Peachtree Rd #175, Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 815-6677
- 1675 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Smyrna, 770-435-0700
Here’s what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “First time visiting Atlanta and this was our first stop for lunch. This was one of the best dining experiences I have had in a very long time. The food was simply AMAZING! Very laid back environment and super friendly staff. All of the food was perfect and the flavor profiles were spot-on. Try the brisket sandwich with the mashed potatoes and thank me later!”
Supreme Fish Delight At Camp Creek
Atlanta Locations:
- 1447 Norman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30349 | (770) 994-0600
- 3630 Marketplace Blvd #820, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 629-4299
Here’s what one reviewer says about Supreme Fish Delight. “This place is really good. Had the catfish sandwich, fries, hushpuppies and a cluster snow crab legs. I was pretty impressed with the taste of everything especially the crab legs (which are my fave). Hushpuppies were really good also. I think the prices are reasonable as well.”
JJ Fish & Chicken
1959 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 763-0008
Here’s what one reviewer says about JJ Fish & Chicken. “Don’t let the look fool you, this may be one of the best fish & chicken spots in the city! JJ Fish & Chicken is a steadfast franchise that delivers the goods every time. With good pricing throughout their entire menu & daily specials there’s something here for everyone. Except Vegans- you’re like a fish out of water here (pun intended) One of my go-to favorites is the two-piece catfish, shrimp and a hefty serving of fries.”
Ikhlas Seafood And Pastries
871 Cleveland Ave, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 766-2808
Here’s what one reviewer says about Ikhlas. “Very good fried fish. A bit spicy and no options beside fried. Will be back.”
Boston Fish Supreme
4517 Campbellton Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 349-4030
Here’s what one reviewer says about Boston Fish Supreme. “I am so glad I found this place. The croaker fish is delicious, fried right. Very good chicken wings and I even like their Philly cheese steak sandwiches. Small place, but delicious food.”
Spondivits
1219 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 767-1569
Here’s what one reviewer says about Spondivits. “Not 5-star as in “Michelin star”, just a great old place, funky hole in the wall type place that’s been here a long time, with some stuff you’d expect from this kind of place, but also some great, original items that sets them apart. On my visits, there were impressive seafood options.”
6 Feet Under Pub & Fish House
Atlanta locations:
- 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 523-6664
- 685 11th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 810-0040
The two 6 Feet Under restaurants in Atlanta come pretty close to the best seafood restaurants in Atlanta: They have hands-down the best fried catfish in the city as well as all the trimmings you’d expect from Louisiana cuisine.
What Is The Best Place To Eat Catfish In Atlanta?
Atlanta restaurants that offer fried fish often serve catfish, but not all of them. Here are the top Atlanta eateries for fried catfish in Atlanta.- Six Feet Under
- Fred’s Meat & Bread
- South City Kitchen
- Bon Ton Atlanta
- Louisiana Bistreaux
- Yasin’s Homestyle Seafood
- Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar
Last Words
In Atlanta, here are certain local eateries that know just how to make it. Tilapia. Cod. Mackerel. Catfish. We can go on and on.
Few things on the menu grab your attention like fried fish, especially if it’s salmon, perch, mahi mahi and other delicacies. Are you in the mood for fried fish in Atlanta?
Where can you find some fresh fried fish with nice, chunky pieces of fish. In this article, we’re going to show you where you can find the best fried fish in Atlanta.
No matter if it’s catfish poboys or a nice, big filet, Atlanta has some great fried fish spots. The key is finding what type of fish you love to eat.If you want to try some other types of seafood, somewhere intown, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
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Teenagers hanging out at Six Flags Over Georgia will need adult supervision in the evenings, according to new rules the amusement park has put into place.
Six Flags Over Georgia just announced that beginning Friday, those ages 15 and younger will need a chaperone after 4 p.m. inside the park.
What Is Six Flags’ Youth Chaperone Policy?
Guests aged 15 years or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old to enter or remain in the park after 4 p.m. daily. The park reserves the right to enforce this requirement earlier if necessary.
The chaperone must possess a valid photo ID and can oversee a maximum of 10 guests per day.
Six Flags did not specify the reason for the policy change at this time, but emphasized their commitment to maintaining the park as a place where families and friends can enjoy fun and immersive experiences together.
Earlier this year, the park’s opening day was marred by multiple altercations, culminating in a teenager being shot outside the park by a responding police officer.
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!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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President Biden shocked the world on Sunday when he announced that he won’t seek re-election in the 2024 presidential campaign.
The news is without precedent but not entirely surprising, given how bad Biden did a few weeks ago in the debate against GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump.
The debate, held in Atlanta and hosted by CNN, exposed the President, 81, as someone who couldn’t remember basic facts and names. The gaffes not only were seized on by Trump, but the political stage at large. What happened in Atlanta became fodder for the world.
“While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote in a letter posted on social media site X. “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”
I’m Atlanta, reaction to Biden’s exit was swift:
Atlanta Mayor Andre DIckens said Biden “an extraordinary American who has dedicated his entire life to working people.”
“His incredible record on jobs, the economy, climate, reproductive rights, and his leadership on the world stage make him one of the most consequential leaders in history,” Dickens said in a statement. “Atlanta is stronger because of his leadership. Our nation is better off because of his service and I’m proud to call him friend, leader, and most of all, President.”
Former Mayor and current Biden Administration aide Keisha Lance Bottoms said “my heart is filled with a profound sense of sadness and admiration for the man who ahs served our nation with unwavering dedication and grace.”
Bill Simmons, a lifelong Democrat and Atlanta resident, said he was stunned when he saw the news about Biden.
”Shocked isn’t the word,” Simmons, a Morehouse College Alumni, said over the phone. “We’re a few months from the election. To say that this will throw the Democratic Party in disarray is an understatement.”
On the other hand, some feel that a younger candidate — like Vice President Kamala Harris —will help energize the base.
”This is actually exciting,” said Kelli Freeman, an occupational therapist from Woodstock, Georgia. “The first black woman president? Are you kidding me?”
In his announcement, Biden said endorsed Harris for president.
“My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President,” Biden posted. “And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year.”
Harris thanked Biden for his support and said she will continue to ready herself for the race.
“I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination,” she said.
Biden visited Atlanta frequently during his term as president as well as vice president to Barack Obama, who weighed in on the race as well post-Biden.
”We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” Obama said in a statement. “But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges. I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.”
Harris is no stranger to Atlanta, having visited the city twice in the past month for different initiatives such as economic empowerment and anti-gun violence.
For his part, Biden made himself at home in Georgia’s largest city as well, eating at soul food place Busy Bee near the AU Center well as Waffle House right after the debate that sealed his presidential fate.
