• When will we will save to travel during the COVID pandemic

    When Will It Be Safe To Travel Again?

    4 Min Read

    If you’re interested in booking a flight out of the busiest airport in the world to get to the beach, one of the things that is no doubt on your mind is your safety.

    Many of the nation’s top airlines are starting to book fares close to the levels that they did pre-COVID. But some travelers understandably may be apprehensive.

    Is It Safe To Fly Again?

    In this article, we’ll show you some of the leading resources on future travel in the pandemic era.

    First of all, let’s talk about the most essential equipment you’ll need to pack and wear for you travels: Masks.

    Masks

    Face masks are mandatory on all planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation in the United States. It doesn’t matter if you’re leaving American or on your way back into the country.

    Here’s where you can buy a mask.

    What The Science Says

    The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control & Prevention says if you’re fully vaccinated, you “can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.”

    As to when we’ll be able to travel safely again in the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is on record as saying that it all depends on the COVID vaccine.

    But the vaccine doesn’t automatically mean that we can return to traveling as normal, according to Fauci.

    “Getting vaccinated does not say you have a free pass to travel,” Fauci told Forbes. “Nor does it say you have a free pass to put aside all the public health measures that we talk about all the time.”

    “You can get some degree of protection that isn’t durable 10 days to 14 days after the first dose, but you can’t rely on that,” Fauci was quoted as saying. “The maximum immunity begins about 10 days to two weeks and beyond following the second dose. That goes for anyone, regardless of whether you want to travel or not.”

    What The Travel Industry Says

    The travel industry has implemented several safety measures to ensure that passengers feel safe and protected onboard. Some safety measures include:

    • Face Coverings: Assurance that all passengers have a face covering and wear it at the airport and on board.
    • Symptoms: Assurance that the passenger is not experiencing a fever, which is essentially a temperature (38C/100.4F or higher), coughing, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, loss of taste or smell, chills, muscle pain and/or sore throat.
    • Exposure – Assurance that the passenger has not had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or had symptoms in the last 14 days.

    With health officials overwhelmingly in favor of vaccines, you might be wondering how to go about travel in the next few weeks or months. 

    What To Do Before You Book A Flight

    Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

    1. Decide On Your Comfort Level

    No one can tell you what your comfort level is in this pandemic. It all depends on whatever risks you are willing to take.

    Always weigh CDC guidance. Once you decide on an acceptable level of risk to you, then stick to that when choosing when and how to travel.

    2. Try To Save Money

    There’s absolutely no sense in spending a lot of money on travel if you don’t need to. Try to save money if at all possible.

    Some ways you can keep more of your dollars is by checking for fare sales at the major airlines. You can also looks for cheap routes on Google Flights.

    3. Make Sure Your Get Vaccinated For Flights

    One thing that has been discussed, and supported by many in the airline industry, is a mandatory vaccine.

     “Everything will be on the table for discussion,” Fauci has told Forbes, referring to mandatory vaccinations for airline passengers.

    If you’re looking for the vaccine near you, here’s how to find it.

    Final Thoughts

    COVID-19 has upended life as we know for the majority, especially when it comes to travel. You may be wondering what it’s going to take to feel safe traveling by air, car or another means.

    The key thing is to do your research before you book.

    Also  It’s very important that you DO NOT travel if you were exposed to COVID-19you are sick, or you have tested positive for COVID-19Learn when it is safe for you to travel. Don’t travel with someone who is sick

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  • ChicknCone opens in Atlanta

    Chick’nCone Opening In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Chicken and waffles restaurant Chick’nCone is set to open in Atlanta later this year, according to its website.

    The new eatery recently opened in Alpharetta on Windward Parkway. For those who know about the food spot, this is a welcome addition to North Fulton.

    Chick’nCone Opening In Atlanta

    Atlanta has a lot of chicken and waffle spots, but this is the first time it’s been offered cone-style.

    Chick’nCone started off as a food truck in New York City. That’s where co-owners Jonathan Almanzar and Josh Lanier began selling chicken-stuffed cones. The eatery opened its first location in Dubai before expanding in the States.

    What’s On Chick’nCone’s Menu?

    Chick'nCone opens in Atlanta

    When it comes to the menu, Chick’nCone’s is simple but good: Fried chicken in several variations.

    • Chick’nCone with Choice of Sauce:
    • Chicken Tenders
    • 3 chicken tenders. Choose your additional quantity of tenders and make sure to add some dipping sauces.
    • Sandwich:

    Where Is Chick’nCone Located?

    Chick’nCone’s Atlanta location is to be announced, although their website shows that its off Memorial Drive between Reynoldstown and Old Fourth Ward.

    As for Chick’nCone’s Alpharetta location, it’s at 5215 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta, Ga. 30004. Here’s a map so you can find it.

    When you enter a Chick’nCone today, you’ll find that most locations are only serving take-out or delivery and may have limited hours due to the COVID pandemic.

    Before you visit, call ahead to your local Chick’nCone store for their hours.

    If you want to check out some other romantic restaurants in Atlanta, these are hard to beat. But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
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  • Derek Robinson, Falayn Ferrell and Warren Luckett - founders of Black Restaurant Week, LLC.

    Black-Owned Culinary Businesses Should Apply For This $250,000 Grant

    3 Min Read

    Do you have a black-owned food business? If so, then you may be eligible for part of a $250,000 award to support black businesses.

    Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, an untold number of restaurant workers have lost their jobs. For the vast majority of them, finding another restaurant job has been an issue.

    Local Green Atlanta Awarded Feed The Soul Foundation Cash Award

    Enter the Feed the Soul Foundation. The organization is the nonprofit arm of Black Restaurant Week LLC. Fee the Soul recently announced their first-ever cohort program to support marginalized restaurant entrepreneurs.

    They aim to do that by setting up financial and professional resources through the Restaurant Business Development Grant Program.

    The initial awards were announced earlier this year. Local Green Atlanta, located on Joseph Lowery Boulevard, is one of the recipients for 2020.

    Feed the Soul Foundation will begin taking applications for 2022 later this year. For more information about Feed the Soul Foundation, please visit feedthesoulfou.org.

    Grubhub and  Maker’s Mark, have both lent their support to the program, which was founded by entrepreneurs Falayn Farrell, Warren Luckett and Derek Robinson.

    “Black-owned businesses were already faced with funding challenges and creating sustainability before the pandemic. We spent years speaking with restaurateurs to hear their concerns and there was an echoing sentiment,” says Falayn Ferrell, Chairwoman of Feed the Soul Foundation and co-founder of Black Restaurant Week. “We came to understand there is not a one-size-fits-all method. One restaurant needs support in building a digital presence; however, a food truck is seeking knowledge to expand to a brick-and-mortar location. We focused on developing a solution to address individualized concerns with personalized insights to improve and grow their businesses.”

    Well, we all don’t have $250,000 to award to our favorite eateries. But is there something you can do on an individual basis?

    How Can You Support Black Restaurants In Atlanta, Georgia?

    You can support black restaurants in Atlanta by patronizing them in several ways. 

    Want to know where to go? Check out this list of the best black-owned restaurants in Atlanta.

    Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Report: Nouveau Bar & Grill Opening owner Ebony Austin In Jonesboro

    Nouveau Bar & Grill Opening In Jonesboro

    3 Min Read

    Nouveau Bar & Grill owner Ebony Austin is set to open another location of her popular restaurant in Jonesboro.

    Nouveau is one of the College Park restaurants that line Main Street down what is becoming known as the “Chow Row” of the south side.

    Nouveau Bar & Grill Opening In Jonesboro

    In addition to the Jonesboro restaurant, Ebony has plans to open an eatery in Miami, Florida as well.

    Austin opened Nouveau in October 2019 in College Park, just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Talking to Southside Dash Radio, Austin shared why she chose College Park to start her restaurant business.

    “I wanted to be in a place where I could give back to my community and it’s appreciated,” she said, referring to area youths. “Once we get older, we want them to have something solid to stand on.”

    “Me and my homegirl had went and looked at the restaurant and when we saw it we said: This is it. Where do I sign?” She said that she’s really big on real estate, so she wanted to not only open an eatery but own the building where it’s located.

    “It’s not just about me opening up a restaurant in College Park, but it’s about how can I give back to a city like College Park and Atlanta,” Austin said.

    Nouveau has an awesome happy hour with $6 drinks begins from 3 – 7 pm. They also have a karaoke night.

    What’s On The Menu At Nouveau Bar & Grill?

    Nouveau Bar & Grill chicken wings

    Nouveau Bar & Grill has one of the most tasty menus in all of Atlanta. Here are some top menu items you can get:

    Chicken & Waffle

    Sweet potato Belgian waffles & crispy fried chicken wings

    Dyriah’s Jerk Wings

    Charbroiled jerk wings, BBQ sauce & homemade blue cheese dressing

    Turkey Burger Sliders

    Brioche bun, gruyere cheese, fried onion, kosher pickle & nouveau sauce

    Sticky Fried Ribs

    Sweet-spicy BBQ sauce & Napa cabbage slaw 

    Where Is Nouveau Bar & Grill Located?

    Nouveau Bar & Grill is located at 3775 Main St. College Park, Ga. 30377. Here is a map so you can find it.

    Final Word

    Austin said she is always looking to give back to the community. She always makes a point to hire people who have entrepreneurial mindsets.

    You can make reservations at Nouveau Bar & Grill at 404-343-6735.

    Atlanta 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.

    As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
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  • New Captain America Sam Wilson

    Marvel Studios Reveals New Captain America (PIC)

    2 Min Read

    Marvel Studios has unveiled the new poster for the new Captain America movie and it’s none other than Sam Wilson.

    The fact that the most famous shield in comics is being passed to an African-American superhero is a big moment for the MCU, which has been criticized for its role in portrayals of race.

    And The MCU’s New Captain America Is…

    Actor Anthony Mackie, who was Captain America’s sidekick in many of the MCU films will now take the baton. Mackie, a native of New Orleans, shared that his son was emotional when he found out who the new Captain America would be.

    Mackie did several episodes leading up to the development in The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, a seven-part series on Disney+

    Here’s Marvel’s official poster of the new Captain America.

    Captain America Anthony Mackie

    The series was largely filmed in Atlanta and in-studio in Fayetteville, Georgia’s Trilith Studios.

    Want to watch The Falcon and The Winter Soldier for free? Here’s how.

    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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  • Watch video of Tyler Perry Oscar speech against hate

    Watch Tyler Perry’s Message To America: ‘Refuse Hate’

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta movie mogul Tyler Perry gave yet another inspired speech at the 2021 Oscars ceremony.

    Perry, who accepted the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, used the moment to speak out against hate and made a strong appeal to centrist views.

    Video: Tyler Perry Says We Must ‘Refuse Hate’

    “I refuse to hate someone because they are Mexican or because they are Black or white or LBGTQ. I refuse to hate someone because they are a police officer. I refuse to hate someone because they are Asian.,” Perry said.

    In his words, Tyler used words that referenced recent tragedies that have unfolded across American of late.

    The recent attacks against Asians across the United States as well as the continued police shootings of black men were just two topics that viewers were reminded of when hearing Perry’s words.

    Finally, he asked that those who want a real conversation to stand “in the middle,” saying that there is were “healing happens.”

    “Anyone who wants to meet me in the middle to refuse hate, to refuse blanket judgment and to help life someone’s feet off the ground, this one is for you, too,” he said to a standing ovation.

    See his speech here.

    As the creator of Tyler Perry Studios in southwest Atlanta, Perry is a major employer of creatives in film and TV production. 

    If you have dreams of making it to the big screen or small screen, you can get a job with Tyler Perry. and work on one of his BET+ productions.

    Georgia has been the #1 location for  big-budget movie and TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies.

    Projects from Amazon Studios, CBS, Netflix, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in 2018-19 and the foreseeable future.

    With more than 800 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.
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  • Atlanta casting calls: Raising Dion is coming to Netflix

    New Netflix Film ‘Raising Dion 2’ Casting In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    It started as a viral Youtube video. Now, more than six years later, it is se to begin its second season on Netflix.  Raising Dion 2 has begun production in metro Atlanta. Work will stretch into early 2021. The show is just one of many new Atlanta casting calls.

    Producers for Raising Dion 2 are looking to cast various small, non-speaking, extras roles, especially children. This article will show you casting call details.

    Raising Dion 2 Casting Call: Here’s What They Need

    Raising Dion 2 is looking for children age 9 and up across multiple ethnicities.

    Date: May 3rd (Covid Test) & May 4th (Filming)

    Location: Atlanta, GA (at the stages for testing and filming)

    Rate: TBD higher rate

    PIANO PLAYER HAND DOUBLE: We are looking for a male 18+ who is proficient in playing piano and who’s hands look like the pictures attached.

    —-
    Must pass COVID test to work. Even if you test negative, you are not confirmed for work unless we send you details confirming shoot day.
     
    If this is you please send us a photo of your hands and a brief description of your piano playing experience (Clips / videos encouraged) / Please also include your name / phone / sizes

    Reach out to rasingdion@centralcasting.com.

    Raising Dion” is described as a science fiction TV series and is based on a comic book by Dennis Liu. “Raising Dion” follows Nicole Reese, a woman who raises her son, named Dion, alone following the sudden death of her husband Mark. However, Dion is not like any other kid. While raising a son as a single mom is tough enough, raising Dion, proves to be tougher. Dion begins to show signs of superhuman abilities and now his mother Nicole must not only raise her son, but also protect him from those that are looking to exploit his superhero like abilities.

    Who Produced Raising Dion?

    The first season of  Raising Dion was a success for Netflix. Carol Barbee wrote the initial episode, acted in it and served as showrunner as well.

    Executive producers for the series included Liu, Barbee, Jason Piperberg, Michael B. Jordan, Charles D. King, Kim Roth, Poppy Hanks, Kenny Goodman, and Michael Green.

     

    The series is one of many Netflix productions filmed in Atlanta.
     
    Raising Dion 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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  • Greenwood Bank: Everything you need to know about the online bank geared toward people of color

    Here’s How Greenwood Bank’s Debit Card Will Look

    2 Min Read

    Greenwood Bank, the black and Latino-centered banking initiative originating from Atlanta entrepreneurs, will launch a debit card with the MasterCard logo, the company announced.

    The Greenwood Bank digital platform is expected to launch later in the year.

    Greenwood And Mastercard Partner For Greenwood Debit Card

    The bank will offer an upgraded Greenwood Premium membership that comes with the following perks:

    • An exclusive metal Greenwood World Debit Mastercard
    • Identity Fraud Expense Reimbursement insurance
    • Enhanced luxury travel services
    • 90 days of Purchase Assurance on damaged or stolen goods
    • Discounted access to private golf courses, free lessons and more

    How Will Greenwood Bank’s Debit Card Look?

    Greenwood Bank debit card Mastercard

    Here’s a glimpse of how Greenwood Bank’s debit card will look. Notice the metallic design. It is expected to also include a MasterCard logo.

    Greenwood Bank comes from the minds of three Atlanta businessmen who have walked different paths to get to the top.

    Former Mayor and U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, rapper and real estate czar Michael ‘Killer Mike’ Render and local media executive Ryan Glover, are the proprietors of Greenwood Bank.

    “As Greenwood works toward bringing practical products to market this summer, it’s encouraging to know that Mastercard is aligned with our mission of economic empowerment for people of color,” said Glover, Chairman and Co-Founder of Greenwood. “Mastercard’s desire to partner with us to produce content that will speak directly to our community while also providing access to the exclusive World Debit program means Greenwood customers will get a best-in-class product and the tools to grow wealth.  Both of these benefits map directly to our mission.”

    Greenwood Bank aims to solve one of the main problems hindering economic interests in America’s underserved communities: Lack of capital.

    See how Greenwood Bank plans to reshape the financial landscape in the community.

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

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  • Ryan Coogler Georgia Black Panther production

    Director Ryan Coogler: Black Panther 2 Will Remain In Georgia

    3 Min Read
    Production on the sequel to Black Panther will remain in Georgia, according to its director.
     
    Ryan Coogler penned a letter about Georgia’s recent passing of restrictive voting laws. In the article, which was published on several entertainment websites, Coogler acknowledges the destruction that Georgia’s recently passed voting laws could do to local businesses.

    Black Panther 2 Director Ryan Coogler Says Production Will Remain In Georgia

    Here is Coogler’s statement, according to Deadline.

    The fight for full enfranchisement is fundamental to the African-American struggle in this country and to this country’s claim to functioning democracy. As an African-American, and as a citizen, I oppose all attempts, explicit and otherwise, to shrink the electorate and reduce access to the ballot. I say this as I return to Georgia, a state that holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Atlanta for eight months while filming my last movie. I have long looked forward to returning. But, when I was informed of the passage of SB202 in the state, and its ramifications for the state’s voters, I was profoundly disappointed.

    But that’s also the reason why Coogler decided to keep production of Black Panther 2 in the Peach State.
     
    “Many of the people employed by [Black Panther 2], including all the local vendors and businesses we engage, are the very same people who will bear the brunt of SB202,” Coogler wrote.

    “Our film is staying in Georgia,” Coogler added. “Additionally, I have made a personal commitment to raise awareness about ways to help overturn this harmful bill, and continue to get educated on this matter from people on the ground. I will encourage everyone working with me to tap in with the local community directly affected by Senate Bill 202 and to leverage their influence and resources to aid in the fight for this particular and essential pillar of democracy.”

    In response to the letter, political activist and former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams tweeted her support of Coogler. “Thank you to Ryan Coogler and #BlackPanther2 for staying in Georgia and fighting for access to democracy. #gapol #WakandaForever

     
     
    Black Panther 2 is set to begin filming in the summertime. For its production code and casting calls, stay with AtlantaFi.com.
    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.
     
    Black Panther 2 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.

    Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls

     
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  • Danai Gurira, Spelman College graduation

    Angela Davis, Danai Gurira To Speak At Spelman Graduation In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Scholar and activist Angela Davis will deliver the keynote address for Spelman College’s 134th Commencement ceremony honoring the graduating class of 2021 during an outdoor ceremony.

    Joining her on stage will be Tony-nominated playwright and actress Danai Gurira, who is best known for her roles as General Okoye in the Atlanta-filmed blockbuster Black Panther.

    Spelman College’s 2021 Graduation: What You Need To Know

    Davis and Gurira will receive honorary degrees.

    Gurira is also known to Atlanta fans as Michonne in the AMC series The Walking Dead. Gurira will deliver a keynote address.

    Where And When Will Spelman College’s 2021 Graduation Take Place?

    Spelman’s commencement ceremony will take place at 3 p.m.Sunday, May 16, at the Georgia Institute of Technology Bobby Dodd Stadium at 177 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.

    Looking for a way to get to Spelman’s graduation? Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Spelman College is a private, historically Black, women’s liberal arts college near downtown Atlanta The college is part of the Atlanta University Center.

    “The COVID-19 pandemic presented the graduating classes of 2020 and 2021 with a set of obstacles unlike any other, and they have proven that they were up to the task,” said Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., president of Spelman.  “Although their lives were essentially put on pause, these two classes displayed resilience and courage, and thrived despite the tremendous challenges presented by the pandemic. We are excited to celebrate this milestone with our stellar graduates and their families.”

    Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.

    Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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