• Self isolation guide amid the coronavirus pandemic

    Self Distancing Guide: How To Be Safe And Productive

    4 Min Read

    We’re all living the dream nightmare right now. Coronavirus pandemic has made sure of that. It’s official that we’re all doing the social distancing thing to curtail the illness.

    Big cities like Atlanta and others are at a huge risk if we don’t obey recommendations from health officials at the World Health Organization and the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

    This article is going to show you how to apply social distancing in your life right now.

    In This Article

    What Is Social Distancing?

    Social distancing, as it is being applied during the pandemic, is the practice of limiting contact with the public.

    The CDC as well as WHO have recommended that people change their social interactions to stem the spread of coronavirus.

    Social distancing is being practiced in Wuhan, China, South Korea and Italy, where violating some of the European city’s health rules can result in a homicide charge. 

    Social Distancing: 10 Things You Can Do At Home Right Now

    • Read that book you’ve always wanted to
    • Give yourself a new hairdo or haircut
    • Rearrange the furniture in your favorite room
    • Give yourself a manicure and / or pedicure
    • Watch free movies on YouTube
    • Sketch some drawings with a pen and a pad
    • Write a poem or start a diary
    • Work outside in your yard or start a garden
    • Take a bubble bath and drink some wine
    • Listen to your old music on CD

    One of the silver linings of social distancing and self-quarantining is that you can actually make money while you self-isolate.

    How To Make Money Online While You Self-Isolate

    Here are some apps that allow you to make money online and even get cash back for purchases. All you have to do is download:

    Watch Free Movies Online

    Speaking of the internet, there’s so much to do online, but nothing beats watching movies without paying for them.

    I’m not talking about anything illegal. Check out these FREE sources for free movies online.

    Social Distancing: 4 Ways To Self Isolate

    Here are four ways to implement social distancing in your life:

    1. Stop Large Gatherings

    If you choose to interact with other people, keep the groups small. It’s imperative that you limit the number of people at your gathering.

    This is especially true if you’re hosting at your place. The question you need to ask is ‘Do you know where EVERYBODY’s been?’

    If you can’t answer that question, it’s best to chill on the parties / gatherings for now.

    2. Change Up Your Schedule

    Because you need to avoid mass gatherings, you’re going to have to switch things up when it comes to your schedule.

    You’ll need to change your schedule so that you’re not around crowds of people. For school settings, here are some things that you’ll modify:

    • Stagger recess, entry / dismissal times
    • Limit school interactions
    • Do E-learning, if you can

    3. Check Your Health Regularly

    Due to the coronavirus pandemic, you’re going to have to get health checks on a regular basis.

    Every so often, you’re going to have to monitor the following two things:

    • Temperature
    • Respiratory symptoms

    If you’re around children, students, staff or co-workers, or any visitors, health officials are suggesting that you check their temperature and respiratory symptoms as well.

    4. Practice Short-Term Absenteeism

    Yes, you may need to consider getting ghost in certain environments, whether it be your place of employment, church or school.

    Even if you’ve planned to do so, the idea is to not show up. During this safety-minded time, everyone will understand.

    When you are absent, this is the ideal time for the facility you’ve left to clean and disinfect.

    Final Word

    Not to be paranoid, but social distancing is not the same as being a hermit. That being said, it only works if you’re vigilant and selective about who you interact with.

    You need to stay away from people who are at an increased risk of getting sick. That means you’ll have to consider implementing plans to do things alone like watching movies and more.

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  • Travel Ban: Everything You Need To Know

    Travel Ban: Everything You Need To Know

    2 Min Read

    With the European travel ban due to the coronavirus pandemic in effect, many wonder if a domestic travel ban is next at Hartsfield-Jackson as well as other international airports.

    The travel ban from parts of Europe went into effect Friday, March 13 as U.S. officials try to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

    What Is The Travel Ban From Europe?

    The European travel restrictions mean that Europeans are banned from flying to the United States for 30 days.

    All U.S. travelers who have come back are being screened for coronavirus upon arrival at 13 U.S. airports. 

    What Are The 13 Airports Screening For Coronavirus?

    1. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Massachusetts
    2. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
    3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
    4. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii
    5. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
    6. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
    7. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
    8. Los Angeles International Airport, (LAX), California
    9. Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
    10. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
    11. San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
    12. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
    13. Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia
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  • Delta cuts capacity by 40%

    Delta Cuts Capacity Due To Coronavirus Pandemic

    2 Min Read

    Delta Air Lines announced Friday that it is cutting its capacity by 70% as travel demand plunges to unseen levels due to the coronavirus pandemic.

    The Atlanta-based company said that it is experiencing “unprecedented revenue impact.”

    The airline industry has been hit the hardest by the coronavirus pandemics, especially after the U.S. instituted a travel ban from most of Europe.

    Coronavirus Pandemic Causes Delta To Cut Capacity

    Cancellations are rising dramatically with net bookings now negative for travel over the next four weeks. To put that in perspective, we’re currently seeing more cancellations than new bookings over the next month,” the company said in a news release.

    Other measures Delta is implementing include the following:

    • Suspending flights to continental Europe, except for London
    • Instituting a hiring freeze and offering voluntary short-term, unpaid leaves immediately
    • Parking up to 300 aircraft

    Along with other major airlines, Delta is currently waiving change fees for all flights booked between March 1-31.

    The no-fee flight changes also apply to international flights previously booked and scheduled to fly in March.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some helpful links:


    Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.  

    To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

    Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

    More Articles Like This:

    Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist

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  • Coronavirus Cleaning Products: Things You Should Be Buying Online Right Now

    2 Min Read

    With so much  anxiety over the coronavirus pandemic, you may be wondering what to buy from the stores. The thing is, don’t panic: That’s not going to help anything or anyone.

    What you do want to do is take a measured approach to getting what you need. This article is going to show you some things you can pick up right now.

    Coronavirus Cleaning Products: Buy These Things Online Right Now

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a list of products that can help fight coronavirus (COVID-19). 

    Here’s what the agency says: “An individual pesticide product may be marketed and sold under a variety of names. If you are seeking additional information about a pesticide product, refer to the EPA Registration Number (EPA Reg. No.), found on the product label, not the brand name. When purchasing a product for use against a specific pathogen, check the EPA Reg. No. versus the products included on this list.”

    Here are some of the disinfectants the EPA recommends: 

    Find the complete list of products HERE.

    Beware Of Scams

    The FTC and FDA recently issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products that claim to be able to treat or cure the coronavirus.

    The companies’ products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver, the FTC says.

    Final Word

    No matter what you do, the key is to take practical precautions and not to panic. As you’ve been hearing about, you can stay safe by following the following good hygiene:

    • Wash your hands frequently
    • Avoid touching your face
    • Cough into your elbow

    Above all, stay safe out there.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some helpful links:

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  • What Is A 401(k)? & How Does It Work?

    What Is A 401(k)? & How Does It Work?

    3 Min Read

    When it comes to investing in yourself, one of the most easiest and convenient ways is by contributing to a 401(k).

    If you’re familiar with it, this article is going to be a wonderful refresher. If not, then we’ll educate you on what you need to know about a 401(k) and why it’s a smart investment.

    What Is A 401(k)? And How Does It Work?

    A 401(k) is a retirement plan that allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars. It is typically sponsored by your employer.

    With most money transactions, the government adds a tax to whatever you do. But that’s not the case with a 401(k).

    The plan allows employees to save and invest a portion of their paycheck. A 401(k) is a way for you to get more bang for buck because the contribution is untaxed.

    However, when you make a withdrawal, you will then be taxed! But more on that later…

    When Did 401(k) Plans Start?

    The 401(k) originated in the late 1970s. That’s when the U.S. Congress enacted the Revenue Act of 1978, which included Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.

    Section 401(k) stipulated that workers could defer taxes on compensation.

    If You Leave Your Job, What Happens To Your 401(K)?

    One of the most-asked questions is, “What happens to my 401(k) when I leave my job?” When this happens, you have some options:

    1. You may be permitted to keep the money with your old company, although you’re allowed to move it without being penalized by paying income taxes.
    2. You can “roll” your money to an IRA, (called a rollover IRA), which can be done by a banking institution of your choice.
    3. You could take a “lump sum distribution,” which means you can cash out. If you do this, you will be hit with steep “early withdrawal fee,” perhaps as high as 10% (those age 59.5 and up are exempt).

    Where Does Your Money Go In A 401(K) Plan?

    A 401(k) can be viewed as a savings account, but it is more or less an investment account. There are three entities that operate your investment account. They are either:

    • A brokerage firm
    • A bank
    • An investment firm

    Which ever one you choose, your money will usually get invested in mutual funds, stocks and bonds.

    he money will be invested for your retirement, usually in your choice of a variety of mutual funds.

    What Is A Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA?

    The primary difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA is that a Roth IRA allows you to pay taxes immediately on your contributions.

    This has several benefits, including the fact that you won’t be saddled with them when you retire on a fixed income.

    Should You Open A 401(K)?

    You should definitely open a 401(K) and the earlier the better. By some estimates, if you open a 401(k) with your employer when you’re 22 years old, you’ll have a $1 million in it by the time you retire.

    If your employer matches your contribution (not all companies do), you’re in even better shape to fund your future retirement.

    I hope this has been helpful so that you can see the benefits of a 401(k). If you have questions, let me know in the comments.

    Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:

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  • Atlanta funkfest 2020

    Atlanta Funkfest 2020: Times, Dates, Info

    2 Min Read

    Funkfest 2020 is happening in Atlanta on Friday, May 29 and Saturday, May 30 at The Home Depot Backyard located in the shadow of Mercedez-Benz Stadium.

    Funkfest is a U.S. tour that brings some of the music scene’s best acts from the 1990s and early 2000s to the stage.

    Funkfest 2020: Atlanta Music Lineup

    Here is some of the music lineup we know about so far:

    • Bobby V.
    • Ludacris
    • Lil Kim
    • Missy Elliot
    • Rapsody
    • T.I.
    • The Dream
    • Trina
    • Tweet
    • Young Bloodz
    • Xscape

    Get Tickets Here

    No outside food and beverages (including alcohol) are permitted inside the venue.

    The following items are NOT permitted inside the venue and will be confiscated at the gate:

    • Outside food and beverages
    • Tents
    • Grills
    • Video recorders
    • Coolers
    • Pets (except as aids to persons with disabilities)
    • Motor homes or RV’s and golf umbrellas
    • No purses or book-bags will be allowed (except women’s wristlets)

    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!

    Read more AtlantaFi.com stories:
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  • Casi Cielo brunch: What's on the menu

    Casi Cielo Opening For Brunch

    2 Min Read

    Casi Cielo, the Sandy Springs restaurant inspired by Oaxacan roots, will now be open for brunch on Sundays.

    The eatery will search brunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. starting on March 15, 2020.

    Casi Cielo Opening For Brunch Starting In March 2020

    Casi Cielo brunch will continue with Chef Juan Ruiz’s elevated dishes paired with seasonal cocktails.

    During the week, the restaurant will continue to serve such hits as sous-vide and charcoal baked octopus and lobster, charcoal rice, Mexican foie-gras meatballs with tenderloin tartar.

    Where Is Casi Cielo Located?

    Casi Cielo is located at 6125 Roswell Rd #200, Atlanta, GA 30328. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Is brunch your thing? Here are some of the best brunches restaurants in Atlanta.

    Up Next: Best Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta

    Here Are The Best Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta Right Now

     

    Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.

    But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.

    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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  • Atlanta tops for small businesses

    New Report Ranks Atlanta Among Best For Small Businesses

    2 Min Read

    You already know Atlanta is a haven for businesswomen, but the news gets even better. According to a new report from loan site LendingTree, Atlanta is among the top cities for small businesses.

    The site commissioned an online survey of 1,281 Americans from Jan. 2-10, 2020 to come up with the findings, which show that Atlanta ranks #6 among top cities for small businesses.

    Top 10 Places for New Small Businesses

    Here are the top 10 cities, according to LendingTree.

    Rank

    Metro

    % of Businesses 5
    Yrs Old or
    Younger

    % of
    Businesses
    Profitable

    % of Businesses
    with Revenue Less
    than $1M

    % of Firms with
    Less than 250
    Employees

    Index

    1

    Seattle

    34.4%

    70.9%

    70.3%

    95.6%

    100

    2

    Denver

    35.7%

    69.4%

    70.8%

    94.9%

    97.46

    3

    Tampa, Fla.

    35.4%

    64.9%

    74.1%

    95.8%

    95.76

    4

    Miami

    39.2%

    61.0%

    76.7%

    97.9%

    92.37

    5

    Portland, Ore.

    33.1%

    69.8%

    69.2%

    95.5%

    88.98

    6

    Atlanta

    35.5%

    66.6%

    70.2%

    95.2%

    88.14

    7

    Orlando, Fla.

    38.6%

    64.7%

    74.0%

    94.6%

    86.44

    8

    Los Angeles

    36.3%

    62.9%

    69.6%

    98.0%

    83.9

    9

    New York

    35.7%

    57.4%

    72.1%

    98.6%

    81.36

    10

    Minneapolis

    27.9%

    69.1%

    69.6%

    95.9%

    79.66

     See the full report HERE.

    Is Atlanta A Good Place To Start A Business?

    With a diverse economy, strong population growth and higher than average cost of living, Atlanta is a very good place to start a business.
     
    When it comes to doing business, Atlanta has one of the lowest costs of doing business in the country, considering its size.

    The state of Georgia also provides a bevy of incentives to high-profile sectors such as the film industry and more.

    Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:

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  • Biscoff cookies - how to make

    Delta: Our Most Tasty Snack Is Here To Stay

    2 Min Read
    Delta Air Lines recently reassured travelers that its most consistent delicacy — Biscoff cookies — aren’t going anywhere.

    “Yep, still got ’em,” the airline recently posted on Twitter.

    The tweet was in response to United Airlines, which announced that it was removing Biscoff cookies for a while and replacing them with Oreo thin mints.
     
    The reaction was swift from United’s fans though, with many travelers saying that NO ONE wants Oreo thin mints over Biscoffs.
     
    United said it will bring Biscoff cookies back in the spring though. Responding to the tweetstorm, United tweeted:
    “Internet, we won’t go baking your heart. We have an ongoing rotation of snacks… so here’s how the cookie crumbles for this round:
    • OREO Thins = on board March 1
    • Biscoff = comes back May 1
    • Stroopwafel = here always
       

    Airlines That Serve Biscoff Cookies

    As it stands, the number of airlines that serve Biscoff cookies are down to a handful. Including United’s seasoning offerings, they are:
    • American Airlines
    • Alaska Airlines
    • American Airlines
    • Delta Air LInes
    • WestJet
    Biscoff cookies are gluten-free ginger spice treats made from cookie butter. The main ingredient is comprised of speculoos cookie crumbs, fat, flour, and sugar.
     
    Many a baker has tried to make Biscoff cookies, but one of the simplest recipes is HERE.
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  • New Restaurant Alert: Lazy Llama Cantina

    What To Order At Lazy Llama Cantina In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Midtown Atlanta just got another fun restaurant in the heart of Ansley Park. Lazy Llama recently opened for business and is serving margaritas and tacos, among other things.

    If you want some good Tex-Mex and strong drinks in Midtown Atlanta, the Lazy Llama is the place to go.

    Adjusting for the coronavirus pandemic, the eatery is open for seated dining Monday through Friday from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 10:30 a.m.- 9 p.m.(weekend brunch).

    If you want takeout, Lazy Llama offers customer pickup and delivery via various delivery partners.

    Currently, they’re offering this:

    Lazy Llama To-Go Only Special – $69

    • 12 tacos (chicken or pork )+ Queso + Chips + salsa + guacamole
    • 4 beers of our choice.
    • Feeds 6-8 people

    The new Atlanta restaurant, which opened on Feb. 26, joins a stable of new food concepts opening in 2020. 

    Lazy Llama is housed in the space formerly occupied by Hobnob Neighborhood Tavern. The restaurant is actually owned by the same people.

    What’s On The Menu At Lazy Llama Cantina?

    Consulting in the kitchen is veteran Atlanta chef Jeffrey Gardner, who has spiced up the menu with top-notch tacos and other Mexican specialties.

    Foodies can also order brunch dishes like huevos divorciados and horchata French toast.

    Drinkers can look forward to a premium beverage program stocked with Grade A tequilas, plus a variety of weekly food and drink specials.

    Where Is Lazy Llama Located In Atlanta?

    Lazy Llama is located near the corner of Piedmont and Monroe avenues in Midtown Atlanta. The address is 1551 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324. Here is a map to help you find it.

    Read more: 15+ essential soul food spots 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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