• Georgia Aquarium

    Atlanta Jewish Life Film Festival: Info, Times, Date

    3 Min Read

    The Atlanta Jewish Life Festival is returning for a fifth year to the world-famous Georgia Aquarium. Tickets are on sale now for the March 3 event scheduled from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. entering through the Ocean’s Ballroom entrance at 246 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30313.

    When Is the Atlanta Jewish Life Festival?

    The Atlanta Jewish Life Festival is March 3, 2024. It takes place this year at Georgia Aquarium™ the Ocean’s Ballroom located on the first level of the Aquarium parking deck at 246 Ivan Allen Jr.

    Here’s a map to help you find it.

    The event, founded by the Atlanta Jewish Times, is Atlanta’s largest single-day festival promoting and celebrating Jewish and Israeli arts, food, music, and culture while connecting the community to local synagogues, nonprofits, and social action groups with the hope to further strengthen the bonds and understanding of Jewish beliefs, traditions, and family.

    This year, they are adding a splash of March Mitzvah Madness. This timely event calls for a “Hoop Contest.” Got game? Prove it and compete in the Hoops Contest. They’ll be giving away cash prizes to the Star Players in each of their four age groups.

    To cheer on the March Mitzvah Madness event is the Atlanta Hawks’ dancers and “Harry the Hawk” himself. Even the Atlanta Braves will be sponsoring and providing signed baseballs and four pack tickets to be awarded to hoops and raffle winners.

    “We are excited to be back a fifth year, and I want the community to know that safety measures are in place,” said Michael Morris, owner and publisher of the Atlanta Jewish Times. “We are always excited for this unique opportunity to bring thousands of Jewish families together for kosher food, entertainment and a chance to meet informally with Jewish community service organizations.”

    Festivalgoers can expect a variety of kosher foods, music, entertainment for the kids, a Purim costume contest, and the opportunity to meet the organizations and institutions that make up the Jewish community here in Atlanta.

    Tickets for the event are $22 each, and $11 for children ages 3-12 (tickets for children under 3 are free). A Family Pass for two adults and four children is also available for $75. All tickets include entry to the Georgia Aquarium for the day.

    Tickets can be purchased at atlantajewishlifefestival.com. The website is also being updated regularly with information on the schedule, vendors and partners who will be participating in the 2024 event.

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  • Tyler Perry makes Fort McPherson plans

    Tyler Perry Halts Studio Expansion Due To Sora, AI Advances

    2 Min Read

    Movie mogul Tyler Perry was in the midst of an $800 million expansion of his southwest Atlanta movie studio but has stopped it indefinitely due to the advances of artificial intelligence, also known as ai.

    Perry, who’s latest film, Mea Culpa is on Netflix, says that ai is something that will radically transform the movie business — and he and others need to be prepared. He mentioned that Sora, Google’s new AI text-to-video platform, is a game-changer.

    Tyler Perry Says AI Is ‘Game Changer’ For Movies And More

    “Being told that it can do all of these things is one thing, but actually seeing the capabilities, it was mind-blowing,” he told the The Hollywood Reporter. “I had gotten word over the last year or so that this was coming, but I had no idea until I saw recently the demonstrations of what it’s able to do. It’s shocking to me.”

    Perry is talking about OpenAI’s Sora project, which has not been officially released, but is still a research project. Some demonstration videos have been making the rounds on social media.

    Sora’s latest demonstrations, which have been stunning in their realism and quality.

    Perry told the publication that there’s no doubt that jobs will be lost to AI and that is one of the things that concerns him the most. When asked if he’s using AI in his films, Perry says he’s done so already.

    “I just used AI in two films that are going to be announced soon. That kept me out of makeup for hours. In post and on set, I was able to use this AI technology to avoid ever having to sit through hours of aging makeup,” he told THP.

    Final Word

    AI is not coming down the road, it’s already here. Businesses need to prepare themselves.

    While AI is sure to take jobs, there will also be an opportunity for professionals to specialize in mastering it to some degree.

    See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now

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

     Read More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Usher gets married in Las Vegas

    Usher Marries Longtime Girlfriend In Las Vegas

    3 Min Read

    It’s official: Usher Raymond, 45, has tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend Jennifer Goicoechea, 40, in Las Vegas. Usher came clean on his Instagram with the release of several photos of the nuptials.

    When Did Usher Get Married?

    Usher and Jennifer got married on Feb. 11 on Vegas, which is where the singer performed at Super Bowl LVIII. Instead of opting for a huge ceremony with hundreds of people, the couple got hitched via a drive-thru wedding package.

    It was reported that Usher’s mother Jonetta Patton witnessed the nuptials and signed the marriage certificate as such.

    Usher Raymond and his kids

    Goicoechea, who is Italian and Puerto Rican, was reared in Miami.

    In an interview with People, Usher said he felt a type of way when fans learned that he had married his first wife, Tameka Foster.

    “I think I became very closed and then felt attacked in many ways,” he said. “It was a bit unconventional in a time when I felt like my female fans were judgmental of the woman that I chose.” 

    Looking back, he says that colorism played a major role.

    “She was a dark-skinned woman, and maybe they didn’t want to love her in a way because of maybe some reason that had to do with themselves,” he explained while adding, “I don’t know. Or maybe she was not the best reference because of how she handled herself. That’s not for me to be concerned about. I did my part and what I thought was right.”

    He also told People.com that his hit album Confessions was largely based on what his producer Jermaine Dupri was going through, but much of it was his own storyline as well.

    “The reality of where it landed and the expression of what that was about, it wasn’t exactly in order of the way or better yet in the moment when I delivered that song,” Usher said. “We go through things in life and sometimes we make decisions based off of what we feel is best or right, and more than likely, will best serve the child. But the reason why I talked about it is because I’m not the only person who will experience that as men.”

    Final Word

    We at AtlantaFi.com wish the Raymonds all the best not just this weekend, but every Atlanta weekend.

    Usher has two sons from a previous relationship with ex-wife Tameka Foster — “Cinco” V and Naviyd Ely — as well as a daughter — Sovereign Bo and a son, Sire Castrello — with his wife, Jenn Goicoechea.

    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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  • High Museum - Friday Jazz

    Friday Night At The High Museum In Atlanta: Jazz

    3 Min Read

    If you’re looking for an outlet for the Atlanta weekend, jazz at the High Museum of Art is surely one of the best ways to do it in Atlanta.

    One of the cool things to do in Atlanta on Fridays — the third Friday of every month — is to come out the jazz at the High. Hosted by Jamal Ahmad from Jazz 91.9 WCLK, Atlanta’s jazz station, the event is filled with music, drinks, art and always a great lineup featuring different styles of jazz, from free jazz, bebop to swing, and more.

    Seating for Friday Jazz is limited and opens at 6 p.m. There is no reserved seating. Standing room is plentiful. Friday Jazz is FREE with Museum admission and FREE for members.

    What Are Some Cool Things To Do In Atlanta On A Friday Night?

    Check Out  the SkyView Atlanta

    Atlanta skyline - Atlanta's best-kept secrets

    Take a ride on the SkyView Ferris wheel for stunning views of the city skyline illuminated at night. It’s a great way to see Atlanta from a unique perspective.

    Enjoy Nightlife in Buckhead

    Atlanta weekend party: What to do in the city.
    Photo credit: Playhouse Media

    The Buckhead neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and lounges offering live music, dancing, and cocktails.

    Check out the coolest things to do in Buckhead.

    Catch a Show at The Fox Theatre

    The historic Fox Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts. It’s a beautiful venue with a rich history.

    Explore the Atlanta BeltLine

    Atlanta Beltline guide

    The Atlanta BeltLine is a popular pedestrian and bike trail that offers a unique way to experience the city at night. The trail is lined with art installations, restaurants, and bars.

    Final Word

    Yes, Atlanta has a lot of things to do and see.

    As a bonus, you can go to Midtown and check out the city’s largest market. Ponce City Market is a food hall and shopping complex housed in a historic building. It offers a wide range of dining options and often hosts events and live music.

    Interested in dining outside? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.

    If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Quavo White X Cognac for sale.

    Quavo Helps Launch Exclusive White Cognac Brand

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta rapper Quavo is partnering with spirits brand Sazerac to offer White X Cognac, a super-exclusive cognac available in limited supply in the United States.

    The first-ever 100 bottles of White X will be available via online wine and spirits retailer BlockBar beginning Wednesday, February 7 at 10 AM EST. It will come in a matching limited-edition box and be priced at $60.

    Quavo Introduces White X Cognac

    “What I love about White X is that it’s an entirely different drink experience than any other type of cognac,” said Quavo, a Grammy-nominated artist and seasoned entrepreneur. “I’m a big believer in challenging the status quo, and I think that’s the role of white cognac. White X is for those who aren’t afraid to shake things up, put in the work and celebrate their accomplishments. This is the drink they’ve been waiting for. Neat or in a cocktail, White X is smooth and sippable – a reward for the hustle.” 

    Traditionally, white cognac has not been publicly available in the United States, greatly limiting access to the spirit for loyal fans. White X seeks to transform the category by ushering in a new era of luxury with a smoother, sweeter and more mixable white cognac offering made available to all cognac lovers in the US beginning immediately at launch.

    “White X challenges the traditional cognac category with its fresh and light taste – it’s a total departure from many pre-conceived perceptions about cognac overall,” said Global Cognac Brand Director at Sazerac, Jess Scheerhorn. “Quavo’s electrifying style and willingness to break down barriers makes him the perfect fit to help us debut this brand.”

    How To Buy White X Cognac

    You can buy White X Cognac at the exclusive BlockBar sale in early February. You can also look for White X takeovers across Atlanta at the city’s hottest clubs, bars, and restaurants, in addition to the product being widely available at local off-premise retail stores.

    Similar drops will happen in these cities:

    • Miami, FL (February)
    • Los Angeles, CA (March)
    • New York City, NY (April)
    • Dallas, TX (May)

    In June 2024, White X will become widely available in all markets across the country.

    Final Word

    Tell your favorite neighborhood bar to order some White X Cognac and set the party off right.

    Clear and golden straw in color, White X offers the delicacy of a youthful cognac but boasts rich flavors that linger. It is fresh and light on the nose with a slight sweetness and intense notes of white and yellow peaches, elegant vanilla, and an undertone of dried rose petals. The palate opens with gentle white stone fruit, creamy and soft vanilla, and a subtle hint of tannin devoid of bitterness. White X’s finish is meltingly smooth, elegant, and extremely long for a younger cognac.

    Want to grab a drink in Atlanta? Check out these top bars.

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  • casting call: 1970s party in Atlanta

    Now Casting In Atlanta: Legendary Celebrity Photo Doubles

    2 Min Read

    Do you look like one of the Motown greats? If so, you could make it to the small screen for a major production in the works right now. This TV series currently being filmed in Atlanta seeks people who look like some of history’s greatest African-American celebrities in the 1970s.

    Here are the details of the casting calls:

    NOW CASTING PAID PHOTO DOUBLE for the following Icons for a New series filming in Atlanta, GA. Portraying the 70’s. Do you resemble:

    Diana Ross -The Supremes -Dick Gregory -Jesse Jackson -Liz Taylor -Sammy Davis Jr. -The Temptations -Whit Chamberlin -Coretta Scott King -Sidney Poitier These specific roles will shoot on : TBD Feb 2024

    ***PHOTO DOUBLE ***

    Rate: $200/12

    The rate for extras on this production is $200/12 which you will receive in the form of a check in the mail 2 to 3 weeks after filming. If you do not fit this description, that is okay as we have more roles for this project being posted next week.

    If available, please email the information below to: FightNightExtras@gmail.com w/Subject Line: Icon Double 2024

    PLEASE INCLUDE ALL INFO BELOW:

    • xx
    • x
    • Name
    • Number
    • Height
    • Weight
    • Age
    • Date of Birth
    • 3 RECENT PICTURES (1 Head shot and 2 Full body)
    • Car ( year, make, model, color)
    • Sizes (Shirt, Pants, Jacket, Shoe etc.) – Do you have visible tattoos? If so, where?

    *********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.

    Final Word

    Want to see more films filmed in Atlanta? Check out our Movies Page.

    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.

    More Articles From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • New Mellow Mushroom Concept Opening In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Mellow Mushroom is set to open a new food concept here in Atlanta this summer, the company says in a press release.

    The Atlanta-based stone-baked pizza joint is shaking up its look and feel thanks to a cosmetic overhaul coinciding with its 50th anniversary.

    Coming To the Beltline: Mellow Mushroom

    The rebranded Mellow Mushroom restaurant will be located just off a portion of the Atlanta Beltline’s Southside Trail, which is still under construction.

    The 3,400-square-foot space would be housed in The Boulevard apartments in Grant Park, which opened in 2023.

    The new restaurant will have dual patios overlooking the Beltline and “new, modern menu flavor profiles for both food and beverage,” according to the release.

    Other Mellow Mushroom locations can expect changes as well as the company leans into an overall fresher look. It’s too early to say whether the brand will lean away from its psychedelic vibe that has served it so well, but it is incorporating a more modern look for sure.

    Among the changes will be a revamped website that makes it easier to order and pay, redesigned menus, signage and a new catering channel.

    Final Word

    Mellow Mushroom isn’t the only great place for great pizza in Atlanta.

    The Atlanta Beltline is not only for walking, jogging and people-watching, you can get some serious eats as well!

    Check out the best places to eat on the Beltline.

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  • Erika Council, owner of Bomb Biscuits in Atlanta, is a James Beard semifinalist.

    These Atlanta Chefs Are 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalists

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta, Georgia makes the cut once again among the most prestigious culinary and food prep experts in America for semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards.

    Whittled from an exhaustive list, the local semifinalists have a chance to take home the top prize and cement Atlanta’s place on the map as a bona fide cultural mecca with top-notch restaurants with diverse cuisine.

    When Will The James Beard Awards Be Announced?

    The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. After that, the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony will be held on Monday, June 10 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

    “We are thrilled for the return of the James Beard Awards—recognizing the outstandingly talented leaders making their mark on American food,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation.
    “As we’ve heard time and again from honorees, receiving this recognition has the potential to be truly
    transformative—and so, the Awards remain a vital platform for supporting and elevating the independent
    restaurant industry as a whole. Congratulations to our 2024 semifinalists and best of luck this Awards
    cycle!”

    And The Atlanta James Beard Award Finalists Are…

    Outstanding Chef presented by Hilton

    A chef who sets high culinary standards and has served as a
    positive example for other food professionals while contributing positively to their broader community.

    • Atsushi Hayakawa, Hayakawa, Atlanta, GA

    Outstanding Hospitality

    A restaurant, bar, or other food and drinking establishment that fosters a sense of hospitality to its broader community.

    • Cooks & Soldiers, Atlanta, GA

    Best Chef: Southeast

    • Pete Amadhanirundr, Puma Yu’s, Athens, GA
    • Arnaldo Castillo, Tio Lucho’s, Atlanta, GA
    • Erika Council, Bomb Biscuits, Atlanta, GA
    • Rod Lassiter and Parnass Savang, Talat Market, Atlanta, GA
    • Duane Nutter, Southern National, Atlanta, GA

    Here Is The Complete 2024 List Of James Beard Award Finalists

    From the Best Chefs to the top bar programs, the James Beard Awards exemplify the utmost of America’s food culture, which Atlanta plays a big part in.

    See the 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalists.

    Final Word

    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.

    Georgia is on your mind, but has it ever been on your plate? I’m talking about locally sourced ingredients that taste as authentic as the Georgia clay.

    Best new Atlanta restaurants

    Our Best New Restaurants of Atlanta E-Book covers all the hot spots that have opened over the past year that you should check out.

    Want to eat out on the town? Indulge in your personal food preferences by going on a personal food tour without having to compromise with others, whether it’s choosing your favorite cuisine or treating yourself to a special meal.

    Dining out in the city can also provide a chance to people-watch and get a nice vibe of the city in all its wonder.

    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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  • Fani Willis sermon in Atlanta church.

    Fani Willis: ‘You Cannot Expect Black Women To Be Perfect and Save the World’

    2 Min Read

    Embattled Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis broke her silence about the pressure she’s been under since indicting former President Trump and other co-defendants. Although she never mentioned his name nor the other attacks she’s endured, there was no doubt what her sermon was about.

    Speaking before a friendly crowd of congregants at Big Bethel AME Church on Auburn Avenue in Atlanta, Willis referenced the heavy burden she feels as a black woman up against considerable opposition. She chose to speak not among politicians, but from the pulpit.

    ““You cannot expect black women to be perfect. We need to be allowed to stumble. We need grace. We are all sinners,” she said.

    “We need your prayers, We need to be allowed to stumble. We need grace. With that type of support, we will move mountains and do Jesus’s will — stumbling all of the way!”

    She eluded to the fact that she, like all of us, has a God-given assignment. “See, we are all flawed, sinners, unworthy, imperfect, damaged, but we are qualified for His call.”

    Willis has been attacked anew for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with one of her main attorneys on the Trump case.

    Watch the video in full here:

    This is not the first time Willis has spoken out amid the probe. Willis, speaking at a private fundraiser in Atlanta in honor of her 52nd birthday, she opened up on the many verbal attacks and racist threats she said she’s endured over the past couple of months.

    Final Word

    “If you commit yourself, God will turn your hard-headed self into the extraordinary for his Kingdom,” she said.

    With 2024 being a presidential election year, it remains to be seen how the year will shape up for Willis, but not just her, America.

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  • Watch the Kansas City Chiefs football game on TV, stream it

    How To Watch The Kansas City Chiefs vs. Miami Dolphins Game

    2 Min Read

    The NFL playoffs have some great games on tap, namely the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Miami Dolphins. If you want to watch it or stream it on your device, keep reading.

    No cable needed! Dolphins vs. Chiefs is the NFL’s first streaming-only playoff game – watch every epic touchdown exclusively on Peacock.

    But what if you don’t have Peacock? Can you still watch the football game? Yes!

    How To Watch the Kansas City Chiefs-Miami Dolphins Game On TV/Streaming

    You can also steam the game for free on FuboTV, which offers a 7-day trial at no charge.

    If you live in Kansas City or Miami, you can watch the game on your local NBC affiliate via cable TV or TV antenna.

    • Matchup: Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs
    • Time: Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 at 8:00 p.m ET (5:00 p.m. PT)
    • Streaming: Peacock
    Join Amazon Prime – Watch Thousands of Movies & TV Shows Anytime – Start Free Trial Now

    Final Word

    From gridiron battles to binge-worthy comedies, sports is something we all can enjoy, especially on an Atlanta weekend. Catch today’s Wild Card game, hit TV shows like “Parks and Recreation,” Premier League soccer, and even WWE Wrestlemania for just $30 per year (half off!). Don’t miss out, join the Peacock party today!

    When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym  for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.

    Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:

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