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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Brown Toy Box, an Atlanta-based innovative educational toy company focused on fostering diversity and inclusion in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields, recently released the interactive game Maya’s Virtual Adventure.
The educational game, powered by Microsoft MakeCode, went live on May 1, 2024 and was developed in collaboration with Microsoft for Nonprofits program Nonprofit Tech Acceleration (NTA).
In an AtlantaFi.com interview, Brown Toy Box owner Terri Nichelle-Bradley says her inspiration came from her formative years in Minnesota. “From my mother ensuring all of her children had positive representation around us all of the time as a child.” She said, the idea came from “wanting my black children to know about black trailblazers and innovators beyond the context of slavery or the civil rights movement.”
Brown Toy Box toys, games, and experiences emphasize early and recurring exposure to STEAM in a culturally relevant manner. Although Black individuals represent 14% of the population, they account for less than 5% of game developers, despite being significant consumers of the $160 billion gaming industry. This collaboration aims to inspire Black children to aspire to grow from consumers to creators in the gaming world.
“By blending representation in gaming with STEAM education, we aim to increase positive images of Black children while inspiring them to develop and explore their interests in coding and game development,” said Terri-Nichelle Bradley, Founder and CEO of Brown Toy Box and chair of Brown Toy Box Foundation.
“Maya’s Virtual Adventure takes children on an immersive learning journey, exploring coding and game development possibilities as they assist Maya in navigating a vibrant virtual world,” Bradley added.
The game features an innovative curriculum introducing young learners to coding concepts in a fun, interactive way. The game provides children with an immersive experience, allowing them to take on challenges, learn simple block -based coding, while unlocking creativity and problem-solving skills.
“Through our collaboration with Brown Toy Box, we’re thrilled to launch Maya’s Virtual Adventure, which will open the door to STEAM education for many young learners,” said Darrell Booker, Executive at Microsoft Nonprofit Tech Accelerator. “By integrating our technology and expertise with Brown Toy Box’s tactile educational play-based learning approach, we aim to inspire a new generation of Black innovators and creators in the tech space,” said Booker.
Maya’s Virtual Adventure introduces Maya, one of the characters from Brown Toy Box’s Dadisi Academy Crew, who represent 15 different STEAM themes. Maya represents coding and game development, guiding children through an exciting quest in a vibrant virtual world.
While anyone can download Maya’s Virtual Adventure, Brown Toy Box and Microsoft NTA is intentional about ensuring the game gets deployed to nonprofits serving children, providing them with an innovative tool to engage young learners and nurture their interest in STEAM. By using the game’s curriculum, families, educators, and community leaders can offer a unique learning experience that celebrates diversity and encourages inclusivity in the world of technology.
Maya’s Virtual Adventure is the first of several MakeCode games being developed in this collaboration, offering a series of educational experiences for children to expand their interest and skills in coding. To access and register for the game visit Maya’s Virtual Adventure here.
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If you’ve been out to eat in Atlanta, Georgia over the past couple of years, you know that the menus have gotten pricier while the portions and food quality has either stayed the same or gotten worse.
A new report from Givex, a cloud-based customer and business insights platform, offering a detailed look into evolving consumer behaviors as food prices at restaurants across the nation continue to push upward.
More Restaurant Guests Say Eating Out a Challenge
The Givex 2024 Restaurant and Dining Trends Survey draws from responses of over 1,000 Americans, examining the impact of inflation on American dining preferences and habits.
Some key findings:
- A notable 78% of Americans agree that higher menu prices have made dining out more challenging over the past year.
- According to the survey, 86% of Americans cite promotions as a major incentive to dine out, closely followed by coupons and discounts at 81%.
- Additionally, 65% of respondents find value in loyalty programs, and nearly half (47%) are attracted to Happy Hour deals.
So what does all this mean for the modern restaurant consumer? It means that 41% of respondents are dining out less frequently, while 45% have reduced their food delivery orders compared to last year. Meanwhile, 60% report cooking more at home.
How To Save Money When You Eat Out
Here’s how you can save some money when eating out at a restaurant:
Use Coupons
If you receive mailers to your house or apartment with coupons in them, use them. Many restaurants offer BOGO deals or Kids Eat Free deals in coupons sent to your place of residence.
Join Loyalty Programs
Sign up and save by joining a restaurant loyalty program. Nearly half of all Americans prioritize grocery loyalty programs, with 49% rating them as most important, according to the survey. Overall, 87% of Americans participate in at least one loyalty program.
Opt for Leftovers
Many times at a restaurant, you’ll be served portion sizes that are way more food than you actually need or want. Why not treat the surplus as an additional meal that you can have later on? Creating leftovers from your restaurant meal is a great way to get more value out of dining out.
Final Taste
Eating out doesn’t have to be a drain on your wallet. Check out these steps to saving money on food to keep your budget in check.
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Ah, summertime is here again and with it come all the trappings: hot weather, outdoor gatherings and a new Chick-fil-A sandwich.
The Atlanta-based fast food chain is introducing its newest seasonal entrée – the Maple Pepper Bacon Sandwich. The sandwich is stacked with smoky flavors that compliment a backyard barbecue in every way.
Also back on the menu at Chick-fil-A is the much-loved Peach Milkshake, which returns for its 15th year.
The sandwich is made with a lemon herb marinated boneless breast of chicken, grilled for a tender, smoky taste. It is served on a buttery and toasted maple flavored brioche bun, topped with Pepper Jack cheese, green leaf lettuce, bacon hand-tossed in a brown sugar and pepper blend, topped with sweet and spicy pickles.
“We are always looking for ways to make unique twists to our entrée selection and the Maple Pepper Bacon Sandwich is a delicious spin on the Chick-fil-A flavors our Guests know and love,” says Allison Duncan, director of menu and packaging. “It is a delicious blend of sweet, savory and spicy, offering an entirely different flavor profile than any other sandwich we’ve launched. We have several new and exciting offerings in the pipeline and look forward to continuing to surprise our Guests with bold, new tastes in the future!”
In Atlanta? Find a Chick-fil-A near you.
Final Word
Chick-fil-A has the sandwich game on lock, but not to be underestimated is its customer service – but it’s not the only game in town.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Are you up for some bourbon-barrel fun In Atlanta?
Local brewery Scofflaw Brewing Co. is hosting their first-ever Bourbon Battle on Saturday, June 15th at their MacArthur Taproom.
Come through between 12:00 and 5:00 PM to watch the fun. Local community teams will go head-to-head in the ultimate whiskey barrel-picking challenge.
Event goers have the opportunity to sample each team’s Kentucky Bourbon and cast votes for their favorite barrel.
The team with the most votes will claim the coveted Backyard Bourbon Battle Heavyweight Belt, legendary bragging rights, and win their very own custom bottle.
Scofflaw’s very own Basement Bourbon will be available for purchase at the event. In addition to bourbon battle and tasting, there will be a variety of food options from local vendors available for purchase and live Bluegrass and Folk music from Atlanta’s very own, Clawdad.
How To Buy Tickets
Buy Bourbon Battle tickets here. Guests must be 21+ to participate in the bourbon tastings but families are welcome to come and enjoy all of the festivities the backyard has to offer, such as cornhole, bocce ball, basketball, and Foursquare. Rain or shine, the battle will be on!
Explore Your Atlanta
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
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. Ponce City Market often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Lenox Square Mall has gotten a new retailer: Maje, an international luxury retailer that specializes in ready-to-wear and accessories collections, has opened its doors in Atlanta.
This is Maje’s first store in the Atlanta market alongside an extensive portfolio of luxury brands.
“We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of Maje at Lenox Square,” Laura Yetman, VP of Retail & Business Development for SMCP North America, said in a statement. “Atlanta has been on our list for several years and we are thrilled to expand into this vibrant and fashion-forward city. Nestled in a prime corner spot within this upscale shopping center, our Maje boutique is poised to captivate and impress.”
The Maje boutique is 1,076 square feetand will feature large format ceppo tile flooring, custom brass fixturing and lighting, oversized graphic lightbox,and walls crafted onsite with handmade artisanal plaster finishes.The store will showcase women’s ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories from the brand.
Maje: A Luxurious History
Judith Milgrom, Founder and Artistic Director created Maje; a brand that embodies generosity, creativity, femininity, and liberty. Maje was born in Paris in 1998, and has since become an international brand, drawing inspiration from global influences, now present in 40 countries with 620 points of sale. The cult favorite French brand has developed ready-to-wear and accessories collections over the years and established itself as a leader for accessible luxury. The brand has always offered bold, urban & modern pieces for all women and all occasions. Maje embodies a feminine silhouette that is understated yet glamorous, featuring both trend-led and classic pieces with subtle details and twist.
Where Is Lenox Square Mall?
Lenox Square is located in the heart of Buckhead at 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Shop in Atlanta
BEFORE YOU GO, take a look at all the top deals happening on our Retail Page. Don’t pay full price for things when you can get GREAT VALUE on items for low prices. Don’t want to miss a deal? Sign up for our #ATLHaps list HERE🙂
Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, take a look at all the top deals on our Clothes Page, there are PLENTY of good deals that you don’t want to miss! Subscribe to our #ATLHaps Newsletter HERE and get the deals delivered to your inbox 🙂
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
- Like Rihanna? Here’s where to buy FENTY products in Atlanta
- Here are the best lace front wig shops in Atlanta
- Looking for human hair on sale? Buy lace fronts online here
Are you trying to become more financially literate? Check out Money Mondays at AtlantaFi.com, where we’ll share strategies to save and make cash.
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A delegation of business leaders and government representatives recently led a week-long economic development tour to South Korea with plans to ignite international investment in Fulton County.
Develop Fulton, a major collaborator behind the overseas initiative, aims to position the county, particularly South Fulton, as the epicenter of unlocked business expansion opportunities in the United States.
Aside from South Fulton, Georgia as a whole has become known as a premier location in the nation for business and economic development.
“Fulton County is the nucleus of smart growth that represents an area uniquely positioned to attract major attention for future business development opportunities,” said Georgia State Senator and Develop Fulton Chairman Brandon Beach. “This mission-driven trip to Korea taps into growing and emerging industries poised to call Fulton County home.”
During the multi-city business development trip from April 20-27, the Fulton delegation engaged in a series of insightful meetings and tours with elected officials and leading business executives across various industries, including logistics, artificial intelligence, biomedical, advanced manufacturing, electric vehicles, and robotics. With a goal to foster strong relationships and showcase the county as a hub for strong business prospects, leaders emphasized Fulton’s strategic positioning, diverse industry landscape, skilled workforce, and exceptional quality of life.
“As ambassadors and economic development evangelists for Fulton County, we remain laser-focused on leveraging every opportunity to highlight the countless ways Fulton remains the gateway for growth in our region,” said Kwanza Hall, Develop Fulton Vice Chairman. “We’re putting a special focus on highlighting the untapped opportunities that abound in South Fulton. By establishing, building, and nurturing these global business relationships, our hope is for these efforts to yield transformative and historic investments across our county and unlock limitless business opportunities.”
Championed by Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts, the delegation also included College Park City Councilman Joseph Carn, East Point City Councilman Joshua Butler, and Director of Economic Development for the City of Fairburn Sylvia Abernathy. Pitts shared that the trip to Korea marked an opportunity to forge global connections and explore new possibilities, with the goal of collaboratively shaping a prosperous future for Fulton County.
“Fulton County is the catalyst for growth and economic prosperity across this region and the state of Georgia, and it is incumbent upon us to seek new business prospects, domestically and internationally,” said Pitts. “We must remain intentional in our efforts to build on the undeniable momentum that has attracted major corporations and industries to Fulton County. The signing of our joint MOU marks a milestone in this international business effort.”
Last Word
East Point continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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The R&B Seafood Festival celebrates the very best of America’s coastal cuisine. If you want to hang out in downtown Atlanta — and you’re a seafood lover, this festival could be your thing.
This festival is one of the best festivals in Atlanta and takes place during a holiday weekend.
R&B Seafood Festival Session 2: What To Know
The date is Sun, May 26, 12 – 4 PM. It’s happening at Underground Atlanta 50 Upper Alabama St, Atlanta, GA.
What: WE LOVE SEAFOOD! We will offer four flavors of mimosas from 5pm – 9pm. Seafood Vendors will be present to fulfill your taste buds or brunch craving that you may have. Not only will there be food vendors, but we will have local business vendors that you can support.
When: Saturday, May 26, 2024 from 5pm – 9pm (Session 2)
Where: Underground Atlanta : 50 Upper Alabama St, Atlanta, GA 30303
General Admission(Entry & Access To Seafood Vendors)
VIP Admission(VIP Access Entry & Festival T-Shirt & Free Drink Ticket)
Where Is the R&B Seafood Festival Located?
The R&B Seafood Festival is located at 50 Upper Alabama Street Atlanta, GA 30303. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Drink Responsibly: This is a 21 years of age and up event only. Do not drink and drive! We encourage you to use ride-share platforms or a designated driver as alternative forms of transportation to the event. We are dedicated to providing our guests with a fun, memorable and SAFE experience.
Explore Your Atlanta
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
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:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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The series BMF is once again casting in Atlanta. The series, which is based on real people and events, is executive produced by 50 Cent.
BMF Is Casting For Various Roles In Atlanta
BMF aka Black Mafia Family is a drama series about a meteoric rise of a drug lord from Detroit and his money laundering organization. The STARZ show traces the real-life origin of convicted drug kingpin Demetrious “Big Meech” Flenory.
Here is the casting call, including how to submit for the role(s):
NOW CASTING PAID FEMALE AND MALE EXTRAS FOR OUR SISTER COMPANY ” DR CASTING”, AGE 18 to 65. These specific roles are listed below for this HIT SERIES “BMF” filming in Atlanta,GA.
-WEDNESDAY MAY 23, 2024
***MOOR WORSHIPERS Rate: $100/8 Race: Arabs, Berbers , Muslim Europeans, Ethnically ambiguous The rate for extras on this production is $100/8 which you will receive in the form of a check in the mail 2 to 3 weeks after filming. If available, please email the information below to: BMFextras@gmail.com w/Subject Line: MOORS 5/23
PLEASE INCLUDE ALL OF THE REQUIRED INFORMATION BELOW. DO NOT LEAVE ANYTHING OUT. WE DO NOT WANT YOUR SUBMISSION DISCARDED!
PLEASE INCLUDE ALL INFO BELOW:
- Name
- Number
- Age & DOB (FOR LEGAL VERIFICATION PURPOSES)
- Sizes (Shirt, Pants, Jacket, Shoe etc.)
- CIty/State
- 2 RECENT PICTURES (1 Head shot and 1 Full body)
PLEASE INCLUDE ALL INFORMATION ABOVE IN YOUR EMAIL FOR PROPER BOOKING!!! A member from CAB CASTINGS, LLC. will call and/or email you to book your attendance in a scene and confirm availability if interested in booking you.
Who Are the Cast Members of BMF?
BMF has an extensive cast, including the following actors:- Tyshon Freeman as Hoop
- Abraham DaVinchi as Terry ‘Southwest T’ Flenory
Demetrius ‘Lil Meech’ Flenory as Demetrius ‘Big Meech’ Flenory - Myles Truitt as B-Mickie
- Michole Briana White as Lucille Flenory
- Russell Hornsby as Charles Flenory
- Steve Harris as Detective Bryant
- Eric Kofi-Abrefa as Lamar Silas
- Laila Pruitt as Nicole
- Kash Doll as Monique
- Sydney Mitchell as LaWanda
- Jasun Jabbar Wardlaw Jr. as Dink
- Lil’ Zane as Sockie
- Christian Robinson as Tiny
- La La Anthony as Markisha Taylor
- Rayan Lawrence as K-9
- Rafael Castillo as Nedo
- Ajiona Alexus as Kato
Final Word
BMF is one of many shows being filmed in Atlanta at this moment. With nearly 1,000 credits shot and produced in Georgia, Atlanta has become the epicenter of cinema the world over.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 yur inbox.Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
Read More From AtlantaFi.com: -
The Red Lobster restaurant chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the company announced on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
The restaurant intends to use the bankruptcy not to close down for good, but rather, to drive operational improvements, simplify the business through a reduction in locations, and pursue a sale of substantially all of its assets as a going concern, according to a press release.
The filing, done with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, essentially means that Red Lobster will sell its business to an entity formed and controlled by its existing term lenders.
Will Reb Lobster Restaurants Close Down?
Red Lobster’s restaurants will remain open and operating as usual during the Chapter 11 process. The Company has been working with vendors to ensure that operations are unaffected and has received a $100 million debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) financing commitment from its existing lenders.
With that said, some Red Lobsters have shuttered around Atlanta as of late. Read our list of Red Lobster closures.
“This restructuring is the best path forward for Red Lobster. It allows us to address several financial and operational challenges and emerge stronger and re-focused on our growth,” Jonathan Tibus, the Company’s CEO, said in a statement. “The support we’ve received from our lenders and vendors will help ensure that we can complete the sale process quickly and efficiently while remaining focused on our employees and guests.”
Final Word
But 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.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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With the recent announcement that Chili’s is closing down in several U.S. cities, it stands to reason that there may be some trepidation among Atlanta foodies as to whether the popular restaurant will remain open in the metro area.
If you recall, some local Chili’s restaurants have already closed their doors around Atlanta.
- In 2019, the Chili’s at Lindbergh at 2440 Piedmont Rd in Buckhead closed for good.
- In June 2023, the Chili’s at 3625 Dallas Highway in West Cobb shut down.
- In August 2023, Chili’s at 4784 Ashford Dunwoody Road closed its doors.
Will Chili’s In Atlanta Remain Open?
It’s too early to tell whether any other Chili’s locations in Atlanta will close permanently, but with the recent reductions in business, it makes sense that more closures are on the way. Red Lobster is also closing some Atlanta-area locations.
With nearly 50 locations, Chili’s had its largest presence in Atlanta just two years ago.
Where Is Chili’s Bar & Grill Located in Atlanta?
As of now, there are a handful of Chili’s restaurants in Atlanta.
- Toco Hills: 2133 Lavista Rd. Northeast, Atlanta, GA
- Camp Creek: 3660 Camp Creek Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30331
- Mt. Zion: 2230 Mt. Zion Pkwy., Morrow, GA 30260
- Austell: 4145 Austell Road, Austell, GA 30106
- Stonecrest: 2920 Stonecrest Cir, Lithonia, GA 30038
- Town Center: 851 Cobb Place Blvd., Kennesaw, GA 30144
- Providence Square: 4111 Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30062
- McDonough: 1740 Jonesboro Road, McDonough, GA 30253
- Hiram: 5100 Jimmy Lee Smith Parkway, Hiram, GA 30141
- Peachtree City: 250 Market Place Connector, Peachtree City, GA 30269
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta