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Terri Nichelle-Bradley says it wasn’t one epiphany that sparked Brown Toy Box, her direct-to-consumer subscription business that bolsters representation and self-esteem in young people of color. There were several.
“I was working at a rec center in college and befriending a little boy who was fascinated with building bridges,” she told AtlantaFi in an email interview. “But his interests weren’t encouraged or cultivated.”
Brown Toy Box Brings Representation, Culture To Children
Bradley also says her early family life in Minnesota helped shape her business immeasurably. “From my mother ensuring all of her children had positive representation around us all of the time as a child.”
And, finally, the Atlanta entrepreneur says, 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.”
So she leaned on her 20 years of public relations and marketing experience to create Brown Toy Box, culturally curated enrichment boxes that include games, toys and activities that come with educational gifts as well.
“Our products and programs are very specific to exposing black children to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math),” Bradley says. “We want them to see trailblazers who went before them in those associated industries and be inspired by that. Therefore, in every box that goes out along with the activity or game/toy, we include a book featuring a real-life black person that has made amazing contributions to the particular theme we are focusing on, or we include a book on an black child hero, also doing something along that theme.”
Bradley, who serves as the Atlanta Chapter Chair for Women in Toys, says it is her personal mission to normalize representation of children of color in books, toys and activities. “My goal is to amplify the African American consumer’s voice in the children’s product space. . My goal is to bring as many women of color into the industry as possible.”
Bradley’s company recently launched an Indiegogo campaign supporting HEY! Helping Empower Youth get 100 boxes to children on the Westside and Southside schools.
As for Brown Toy Box, Bradley has ambitious plans to expand its reach into homes, businesses and schools in the near future.
“Ultimately, I am working to make Brown Toy Box the Walt Disney Company for Black children globally,” she says. “My vision for Brown Toy Box is to continue to grow our subscription box business, but also to create digital content, branded products, publishing and events.”
Bradley says African-American buying power continues to be a cultural force, yet remains one of the most underutilized markets for growth — but she’s determined to change that.
“I know that I am doing good work and working to change how black children see themselves and ultimately their futures. What other children’s product companies don’t understand is that our $1 trillion purchasing power needs to be respected. I am very excited to think about where we will be five years from now.”
Final Word
A huge congratulations to Bradley, who recently inked an agreement to sell Brown Toy Box in Target stores nationwide!
Want more inspirational stories out of Atlanta? Pitch CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here,
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If you’re looking for a job, here you go: Best Buy is one of many companies currently hiring in Atlanta.
Like many companies, the roles available right now include both part- and full-time positions. In this article, we’re going to show you what you need to do to get hired at Best Buy.
Best Buy Is Hiring In Atlanta
The electronics retailer periodically hosts job fairs at its stores across the metro Atlanta area. We will keep you updated on when one is coming up.
To see positions that are currently open, go to bestbuy-jobs.com/explore-careers.
If you know what position you’re looking for, search for it. Also don’t forget to add your specific city to the search.
How Much Does Best Buy Pay An Hour?
Since August 2020, Best Buy has been giving its U.S employees a starting pay of $15 an hour. Of course, depending on your position and experience, you can earn a lot more.
What Types Of Positions Is Best Buy Hiring For?
Best Buy has several positions open right now. Looking at their website, here’s a sample view of some of the jobs they have.
- Geek Squad Advanced Repair Agent — Part-Time
- Inventory / Merchandising / Product Flow Specialist — Part-Time
- AT&T Specialist — Full-Time
- Geek Squad Consultation Agent — Part-Time
- Appliance Specialist — Full-Time
Last Thought
Best Buy says job applicants can apply in person or online. Interviews will take place the same day with potential on-the-spot job offers.
To get any job, you need to look your best. Make sure you are well rehearsed with your interview answers and come off naturally.
If your interview is via videoconference service like Zoom, here’s how to ace it.
Metro Atlanta has a hot economy and that means employers are hiring at a rapid pace.If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.Read more AtlantaFi.com stories: -
I tried to eat a whole pizza at Nina and Rafi. I could not do it, but I tried.
The new Atlanta restaurant, opened just off the new section of the Atlanta Beltline, is slowing gaining momentum as a dining favorite in Midtown.
Nina and Rafi Is One Of the Best Pizza Joints In Midtown Atlanta
First off, Nina and Rafi’s design is a little different. Unlike many restaurants that have a front and back, typically facing the Beltine, this Atlanta restaurant’s front door is facing the Eastside trail of the Beltine.
Once you approach the eatery, you walk past a gorgeous patio and enter through the front door. Once you get inside, the hardwood floor has a warm brown oakish quality that makes you feel at home, or at least, invited.
Nina and Rafi review: The down low on delicious and hearty pizzas on the Beltline #OTW https://t.co/NWDwLjN6R3 pic.twitter.com/vdK9tHUPhL
— ATLHAPS (@atlhaps) February 8, 2019
The restaurant is named for Streck and Spina’s grandmothers – Nina and Rafi – and their upbringings in New Jersey and New York. Both were raised eating grandma-style pies in their family pizzerias. Spina was schooled in the art of crafting Jersey-style pizza side-by-side with his uncle in Red Bank, New Jersey.
What’s On Nina And Rafi’s Menu?
The menu has a Classic Pies section that has faves like Cheese PIe, White Pie and Old Fashion. There’s also a Build-Your-Own Pie item.
Many of the pizzas at Nina and Rafi are Detroit-style pies. That means they are thicker than usual and have more dough.
Local restaraunt maestros Billy Streck and Anthony Spina named the new spot after their grandmothers – Nina and Rafi – and their upbringings in New Jersey and New York. Both were raised eating grandma-style pies in their family pizzerias. Spina was schooled in the art of crafting Jersey-style pizza side-by-side with his uncle in Red Bank, New Jersey.
I tried the Spicy Round pizza, which comes with super margherita and hand-sliced pepperoni, meatballs, ricotta and spicy calabrian chili.
I originally wanted just a slice, but Nina and Rafi doesn’t sell pizza by the slice during dinner time. If that’s what you want, you need to come for lunch time.
The Spicy Round pizza was simply delicious. I got a large (18 inches) because it was only a few dollars more than the 12 inch.
Does Nina and Rafi have anything other than pizza on the menu?
Nina and Rafi doesn’t just have pizzas. The menu has some salad options that are just as delicious. The Pizzeria Salad has green leaf lettuce, red onion, olives, chickpeas and more. The Panzanella Salad has sliced tomotoes, fresh mozzarella, red onion and house vinaigrette.
There’s also a great Caprese and Caesar Salad with romaine, croutons and parmigiano reggiano.
Where Is Nina And Rafi Located?
Nina and Rafi is located on the Beltline at 661 Auburn Ave NE STE 220, Atlanta, GA 30312. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Last Words
The Atlanta Beltline has several places for you to park if you want to visit a restaurant or go walking. Nina and Rafi is one of the best eateries along the Beltline, by the way.
If you’re trying to go to Ponce City Market, you can park in the parking lot on North Avenue. It costs $1 for self-parking up to 30 minutes and $1 for each hour after that.
The Eastside Trail also has parking in Old Fourth Ward.
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.
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.
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The chefs behind Lazy Betty in Candler Park are teaming up for a new food venture in Atlanta. Juniper Cafe is set to open on the city’s west side in summer 2021, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The new Atlanta restaurant will offer a modern take on Vietnamese cafe and bakery. The eclectic eatery will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Coming Soon To Atlanta: Juniper Cafe
Some familiar faces will be running the place: Ron Hsu and Aaron Phillips are co-partners on the new eatery, but Carl Van Tyle Gilbert, general manager and beverage director at Lazy Betty, will also be a partner.
Customers can expect to be able to have plenty of space to themselves in the eatery. Juniper Cafe will featuree two patio spaces and COVID-friendly seating. There will also be an outdoor takeout window for pastries, coffee and to-go food and drinks.
What Will Be On Juniper Cafe’s Menu?
You may be wondering what’s on store for Juniper Cafe’s menu. Here are some Vietnamese specialties and food items you can expect to se:
- Pho
- Noodle salads (bún),
- Banh mis,
- Summer rolls
- Housemade sausages,
- Pastries (made from scratch)
- Fun shaved ice treats for kids and families like Coconut Shaved Ice with mochi and fresh mangoes and strawberries.
Where Will Juniper Cafe Be Located?
Juniper Cafe will be located at Westside Village at 2250 Marietta Blvd NW, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA. 30318. Here is a map to help you find it.
The new eatery will be just off Marietta Boulevard where it meets Moores Mill in Atlanta’s West Midtown neighborhood.
How To Try Juniper Cafe’s Menu Now
Want to taste some food from Juniper Cafe before its official grand opening this summer? Look out for some pop-ups at Lazy Betty to get a preview of the food and beverage menu.
The first pop-up will be held on Tuesday, April 13 from 6-9pm (or until sold out) and will be first come, first served. COVID-19 protocols here will be in place.
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to grab a bite!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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The Atlanta-filmed The Falcon and the Winter Soldier streams on Disney+ on Friday, March 19, 2021. WandaVision aside, the movie is the first big-budget series since Endgame.
Anthony Mackie stars as Sam Winston (the Falcon) and Sebastian Stan plays Bucky Barnes (the Winter Soldier) set in the Cinematic Marvel Universe (MCU).
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, including how you can watch it for free.
What Is The Falcon And The Winter Soldier?
The Falcon And The Winter Soldier is a six-episode Marvel Studios series based on two prominent characters associated with the Avengers.
Like all superhereo movies, the plot delves into the fight of good vs. evil, but this one also examines patriotism and nationalism in modern times.
A major plot point is also who will be the next Captain America. The U.S. Army wants to groom Agent John Walker as the heir apparent, although the Falcon, in possession of Cap’s shield, has other plans.
Where Was The Falcon And The Winter Soldier Filmed?
The majority of the scenes from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier were filmed in metro Atlanta, specifically at Trilith Studios in Fayetteville just outside Georgia’s largest city.
Additional scenes were filmed in Prague, Czech Republic in the fall of 2020, and some other places.
Production was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 and resumed about six months later under strict safety protocols. The production code for the film was Tag Team.
The series, which is expected to be a big hit, was written by Malcolm Spellman.
The series picks off right where Endgame left off in 2019 and has continuity with the MCU. Mackie, speaking to Reuters says the series tackles some of the uncertainty after the blockbuster movie.
“The biggest question is ‘What is the new normal post-blip?’,” Mackie told Reuters. “Everyone is trying to figure out how they fit back into society. So that’s the big question that’s answered.”
How To Watch The Falcon And The Winter Soldier For Free
To watch The Falcon And The Winter Soldier you’ll need to sign up for the free trial at DisneyPlus.com. You get seven days to watch any movie or series on the streaming service.
After the seven days have elapsed, you can either pay the $6.99 monthly fee or cancel.
Want to watch other streaming services for free? Here’s how.
Disney+ Set to Release Atlanta-filmed Loki
Final Word
If you love movies, then you already know that Atlanta is ground zero for movie-making and production. The state has a generous tax subsidy that attracts some of the top films in the business.
That ecosystem is why there’s so many film jobs available in Georgia right now (Wanna get cast as an extra?). And with MCU’s Phase Four in production, there won’t be a shortage for a while.
With close to 1,000 movie and TV projects produced just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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Did you get your last stimulus check? Because another one is on the way.
The Biden Administration’s nearly $2 trillion coronavirus relief plan has been approved. That means a third stimulus check is coming for most Americans.
The relief package being floated in government circles — the American Rescue Plan — includes stimulus money that can help needy Americans. The plan passed with zero Republican support, but because the Democrats were able to get a simple majority, we have a package.
But let’s get to the good stuff: When is your stimulus coming? We’re going to tell you that and more.
Third Round Of Stimulus Checks: Everything You Need To Know
Government cash has been distributed to Americans in waves since the coronavirus pandemic began last March. Not only is the money needed to shore up the economy, but regular Americans are struggling to find work as unemployment numbers start to creep up again.
It’s understandable that you’d have some questions about the new stimulus checks and we’re going to answer them. Here is everything we know about the third stimulus checks.
1. How Much Will The Third Stimulus Check Be?
Because the IRS and Treasury Department facilitated sending out the $600 at the beginning of the year, the third round of stimulus checks is for $1,400.
For those keeping score, that’s a total of $2,000 in government help, which many nations across the globe have committed to on a monthly basis.
2. When Will The Stimulus Checks Arrive?
While the political wrangling often takes days in Congress, the actual process of getting that money into the hands of Americans will be swift.
Hours after the relief package was approved by President Biden, the White House said it would be making its way to American bank accounts in days.
Of course, that won’t be the case with everybody. If may be months before the payments arrive, analysts say.
3. What’s Taking So Long?
The IRS has gone on record to say that their online systems have been overwhelmed when stimulus checks are involved. The truth is that for all Americans to get paid, it’s going to take some time.
Congress painstakingly approved a relief package in April 2020 that took weeks to go out. In the last week of the year, U.S. lawmakers freed up more than $900 billion for a stimulus package that gave each Americans $600, and that also took time for some U.S. citizens.
Final Thoughts
If you need help finding out what’s up with your money, go to IRS.gov, the official site of the Internal Revenue Service, and see if they can help you.
With many workers still preparing for layoffs, lawmakers are poised to approve more stimulus money down the road.
Up Next: How To Track Your Stimulus Money
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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The Nashville-style hot chicken craze continues to grow in Atlanta. Scoville Hot Chicken opens its third metro Atlanta location on Thursday, March 11, 2021, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The new Buckhead location from owner Justin Lim adds to Scoville’s expansion from its Sandy Springs and Athens restaurants. Scoville is already one of the best hot chicken spots in Atlanta.
Scoville Hot Chicken Opens In Atlanta
The Buckhead Scoville Hot Chicken is in the space formerly occupied by Lovie’s BBQ, which closed early in the pandemic. The eatery is also hiring.
If you’re wondering what’s on the menu at Scoville Hot Chicken, you don’t have to wonder.
What’s On The Menu At Scoville Hot Chicken?
Menu favorites include the following:
- Scoville Hot Chicken Sandwich w/fries
- Hot Chicken Sandwich
No matter which sandwich you get, they all come with cole slaw, pickles and Scoville sauce.
Where Is Scoville Hot Chicken Located In Buckhead?
The Buckhead location of Scoville Hot Chicken is located at 3420 Piedmont Road, Atlanta, GA. 30305. Here is a map to help you find it.
Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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MacGyver is hiring actors for some upcoming scenes. The series has filmed around Atlanta since 2016. Here’s what to know about the MacGyver casting call.
Now casting directors are looking for regular people to act for an important scene this month. Here is what they need, according to the casting call:
MacGyver Casting Call in Atlanta
FILMING DATE: TUESDAY 3/9/21Currently seeking the following:STANDIN: Female, able to play age range 18-40, preferred height range 5’4″-5’8″, preferred hair color auburn/brownPAY RATE:Filming Date $150.00/12As a condition of working on set, all talent are required to get a paid Covid-19 test(s) at a production sanctioned testing facility prior to any work date(s). Payment will be paid as a quarter of the workday base rate for each test day. The test performed is a mid-nasal swab. Additional testing may also be done on workdays. While at the test facility and on set, Production requires that a face mask that covers your nose and mouth be worn. All possible work dates are contingent upon clearing these tests.If you fit these descriptions and are interested in being considered for one or multiple days on this project, PLEASE EMAIL the following ASAP to: MACATL@centralcasting.com• USE SUBJECT LINE: STANDIN WITH TEST RESULTS• CURRENT photo(s) of yourself• LEGAL NAME• PHONE NUMBER*EMAIL ADDRESS*HEIGHT & WEIGHT• Are you registered with Central Casting GA?• SET/TESTING REQUIREMENTS: Are you okay with these requirements?**please send current SELFIE photo taken today from your cell phone camera. NO filters!Where Does MacGyver Film In Georgia?
MacGyver films across metro Atlanta, including in Stockbridge. That was where the show did some filming most recently.The CBS series, starring Lucas Till as MacGyver, a genius who relies on “his unconventional problem-solving skills to save lives,” according to IMDb, recently filmed in Stockbridge City Hall.
Atlanta has become a movie mecca in recent years and Georgia has been a favorite location for TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies that agree to shoot locally. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the latter part of the year and the foreseeable future.
Because of the steady flow of movie and TV productions, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and it’s not just a label.. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.Coming 2 America is just one of many films filmed in Atlanta. See our Movies Page for more.Are you interested in becoming an actor in Atlanta? You’re in the right place!With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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Business / Restaurants2 Min Read
HobNob Neighborhood Tavern recently opened another location in metro Atlanta. The husband-and-wife-owned eatery just opened n Atlantic Station in Midtown Atlanta.
HobNob is known for its neighborly atmosphere, stellar beer selection and great burgers.
“We’re very excited to bring HOBNOB to one of Atlanta’s most iconic developments,” says Sean Yeremyan, co-owner of Big Table Restaurants. “Atlantic Station has something for everyone, and HOBNOB operates on the same philosophy. Our menu selections satisfy every taste, and we serve guests in a welcoming environment that’s perfect for connecting with friends and family.”
HobNob has three other locations in the city, one in Brookhaven, Dunwoody and the other off Piedmont in Midtown, the original eatery.
The restaurant’s website describes it as “a ‘spirited’ place, featuring one of the largest collections of bourbon and whiskey in the Southeast. Fine Southern additions to the menu of refined tavern fare combined with sincere and friendly service make visiting this community-driven establishment a must for both weekday revelers and weekend warriors.”
What’s On The Menu At HobNob Neighborhood Tavern?
HobNob Neighborhood Tavern has some delicious eats on its menu. Winners include Roasted Cauliflower, Tavern Salmon, Pork and Veal Meatloaf. Here’s what some of the food looks like, courtesy of HobNob’s Instagram.
Where Will HobNob Atlantic Station Be Located?
The HobNob Neighborhood Tavern at Atlantic Station will be located at 245 18th Street in a spacious two-story space. Here’s a map to help you find it.
When it comes to restaurants, Atlanta is quickly gaining ground on some of the dining capitals around the United States.
Read more: 15 essential soul food spots in Atlanta
Fast-casual is 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.
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