Category: Atlanta

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.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
• Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
• Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
• Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL

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.

Are you ready to “Rise Up” for the 2024 Atlanta Falcons? Don red and black and join the party.

Get ready for the return of Falcons football with a free kickoff party featuring special appearances, musical performers and giveaways. Be a part of the excitement as we celebrate the start of the 2024 season with current Falcons players and a lineup of special guests!

This event will be emceed by announcers Ryan Cameron and Chelsea Phillips Tafoya and will feature:

• Appearances by current Falcons players including Grady Jarrett, Bijan Robinson and Younghoe Koo
• Performances by Falcons Cheerleaders and Freddie Falcon
• Giveaways and more!

Plus, rep your Dirty Birds all season long and shop our new Kickoff Collection in-person at the Atlantic Station Team Store, located across from the Atlantic Green.

Date: Friday, September 6 // Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Outdoors in the Atlantic Green at Atlantic Station, near HOBNOB (245 18*th* St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363)

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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• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
• Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
• Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About

Labor Day is here in Atlanta and you might be wondering what you can see and do.

This article will show you some things you can do in Atlanta on Labor Day.

What To Do on Labor Day in Atlanta

Labor Day serves as a tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers, who played a key role in building the nation’s economy and improving working conditions through their collective efforts.

In Atlanta, we honor those values by taking time to reflect — and relax — from our labors. Wanna know what’s going on around Atlanta for Labor Day? Let’s go.

Labor Day Cookout Festival

The Cookout Festival is happening Sept. 1-3 at 1070 Donald Lee Hollowell Blvd, Atlanta, Ga. Bring your lawn chairs and support the food trucks that will have food and drink on hand.

Atlanta Street Food Festival and Bazaar

Check out the Atlanta Street Food Festival and Bazaar, an event presented by The Blacks in Technology Foundation at 1660 Johnson Road NW, Atlanta. This free event on Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, will have food, games, kids activities and more.

DragonCon

Check out the witches, warlocks and gamers as they congregate in downtown Atlanta for DragonCon. Check out our DragonCon Guide if you want to go.

Peach State Block Party

Get ready for the biggest party of the summer! Join the Peach State Block Party featuring a live DJ, vendors and arts and crafts at Underground Atlanta. It’s happening Monday, Sept. 2 from 2 to 10 pm at 50 Upper Alabama St.

Summer Chill — Frozen Margarita Fest

On Labor Day, come to Midtown to enjoy a day of friends, family, good food, frozen drinks, and great music at Piedmont Park on September 2nd from 12pm-10pm.

Eat at STK

From Friday, Aug. 30th – Monday, Sept. 2nd, STK will be offering 50% off food for teachers, first responders and military personnel all Labor Day weekend long. Stop by for amazing steak features, fun cocktails and indulge-worthy sides to up the celebration.

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Over time, Labor Day has also come to symbolize the unofficial end of summer in the U.S. It marks the beginning of the school year in many regions and is associated with parades, barbecues, and family gatherings.

Today, Labor Day remains a day to honor the work and dedication of millions of Americans, past and present, who have contributed to the nation’s prosperity.

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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Things in Callaway Gardens are looking up, up. Hot air balloons are going to be up in the air this weekend.

If you can make it down to Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, you’ll be glad to know that the annual event known as the “Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival” is on and poppin’!

Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Garden: What To Know

This festival typically takes place over Labor Day Weekend and is a celebration of hot air balloons and various related activities. Here are some key features of the festival:

Hot Air Balloon Flights: The highlight of the festival is, of course, the hot air balloons. Visitors can witness a colorful display of balloons taking flight in the morning and evening, with some balloons often illuminated at night, creating a magical sight.

Balloon Glow: One of the most popular events at the festival is the “Balloon Glow,” where hot air balloons are tethered to the ground and lit up in sync with music, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.

Entertainment: In addition to hot air balloon activities, the festival typically includes live music, family-friendly entertainment, and attractions. There may be performances, games, and activities for children and adults alike.

Food and Beverage: Various food vendors and options are usually available, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of delicious meals and snacks throughout the festival.

Waterfront Activities: Callaway Gardens often features beautiful lakes and water bodies, providing opportunities for water-based activities like paddle boating or simply relaxing by the water.

Nature and Gardens: Callaway Gardens itself is renowned for its stunning gardens and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy the lush landscapes, which may also be a part of the festival experience.

This event may be postponed if it rains.

Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.

Explore Atlanta The Cool Way

First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. CNN Center often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:

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Hunting in the Georgia outdoors is not only refreshing and rewarding.

If you’re interested in hunting in Georgia, there’s some things you need to know before you take to the woods. This article will tell you everything you need to know about hunting in Georgia.

We’ll also go over the #1 question: How to get a hunting license. To full answer that question, it depends on if you live in Georgia and if you’re interested in a long-term or shot-term hunting license.

Let’s get right to it.

• How To Get A Georgia Hunting License
• When is Hunting Season In Georgia?
• What Kind Of Animals Can You Hunt?
• Where Can You Hunt In Georgia?
• What Do You Need To Go Hunting?

How To Get A Georgia Hunting License

If you want to hunt deer, quail and other animals, you need a hunting license in Georgia. Otherwise, killing animals for sport or otherwise is unlawful. You can buy a Georgia hunting license online or call 800-366-2661 — but before you do….

As we alluded to, there are several different types of Georgia hunting licenses. Here is a breakdown:

• Annual Hunting License: This lasts 365 days from date of purchase
• Short-Time License: These licenses can last one day or up to 11 consecutive days.

To manage your short-term Georgia hunting license, call 1-800-366-2661.

Follow these steps to get a Georgia hunting license.

Requirements

Here are the requirements for getting a Georgia’s hunting license:

• Proper ID and Social Security number
• Must be a Georgia resident
• Must be between 16 and 65
• Completion of hunter education course

What Kinds Of Hunting Licenses Can You Get?

Georgia has several types of hunting licenses, some free and some for a fee.

• Sportsman License: $65 annual fee
• Lifetime License: $750 ($35 to $70 off for those born after 1952)
• Short-Term License: $25 for one-day ($3 for additional days)

When Is Hunting Season In Georgia?

To control animal populations and preserve ecosystems, Georgia has specific hunting seasons for both big and small game. Here is a hunting season, according to the Department of Georgia Wildlife.

What Kind Of Animals Can You Hunt In Georgia?

Once you get your Georgia hunting license, you can hunt for several types of animals, and game, including alligator hunt, deer-dog hunting and more. Here is a list.

• Deer — Big Game license required
• Turkey — Big Game license required
• Dove & Waterfowl
• Small Game
• Bear — Big Game license required
• Alligator
• Non-native & Invasive Species (feral hogs, coyotes, armadillos, beavers, groundhogs, starlings, pigeons and English sparrows)

If you want to hunt turkey and deer, you’ll need a free Harvest Record, which must be renewed each year.

If you’re going to be hunting birds, you’ll need a Georgia Migratory Bird Stamp. This is required to shoot all migratory birds (doves, ducks, geese, woodcock, snipe, etc.) For ducks and geese, you’ll need a Federal Duck Stamp ($25).

Where Can You Hunt In Georgia?

If you want to get out and hunt, you need to know where to go. To hunt on private land, you obviously need permission. 

Before you hunt on private land, ask the landowner if you can access the land. You can hunt on state land with no problem, if you follow the rules.

Georgia provides a list of state properties where you can access the land and hunt, if you have a license.

What Do You Need To Go Hunting?

If you want to go out into the woods and hunt some deer or other big game, make sure you have the equipment you need. Here are some supplies you’ll want to buy before you go hunting.

Hunting Suits

• Frogg Togg’s Men’s Rain Suit
• Water Resistant Camo Suit
• Camo Dungaree Pant

Hunting Boots

• Tidewe Rubber Hunting Boots
• Neoprene Fishing Boats
• Rocky Sport Insulated Boots

Last Words

Hunting is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can do in the great outdoors. When you get your hunting license, make sure you’re always conscious of others in the woods. Safety should always be your top priority.

As we mentioned up top, there are two ways to buy a Georgia hunting license:

• You can buy a Georgia hunting license online
• Or you can call a local agent at 800-366-2661

You don’t have to be a hunter to appreciate enjoying a nice steak or pulled pork on your plate. The only way that culinary experience happens is by hunting.

Interested in more fun outdoors? Check out the adventurous things to do in Atlanta.

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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