Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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For Atlanta Hawks player Dikembe Mutombo has died after beign diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2022. He was 58.
Mutombo, known for his deep gravely voice and towering stature, was one of the best shot blockers in NBA history.
Dikembe Mutombo Dead at 58
“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
His son Ryan left a heartfelt tribute to Mutombo, calling him a “superhero.”
Early Life
- arly Years: Mutombo was born in 1966 in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (then called Zaire). As a child, he was initially more focused on academics than sports. His parents placed a strong emphasis on education, and Mutombo was particularly interested in becoming a doctor or working in public health.
- Interest in Soccer and Handball: Growing up, Mutombo played soccer and handball, which were more popular sports in Congo. It wasn’t until his late teenage years, when his height became more noticeable, that people began suggesting he try basketball.
2. Transition to Basketball at Georgetown University
- Georgetown University: In 1987, Mutombo moved to the United States on a USAID scholarship to attend Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. He initially planned to study medicine and pursue a career in public health. However, his height—he stood at 7’2” by the time he arrived in the U.S.—caught the attention of Georgetown’s legendary basketball coach, John Thompson.
In the NBA
Mutombo played for the Atlanta Hawks from 1996 to 2001. He joined the Hawks after signing a lucrative free-agent contract in the summer of 1996 and quickly became one of the team’s key players. During his time with the Hawks, Mutombo was known for his dominant defense and shot-blocking ability, earning several NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards.
While with the Hawks, Mutombo was an All-Star three times (1997, 1998, and 2000) and led the team to multiple playoff appearances. His time in Atlanta further solidified his reputation as one of the best defensive players in NBA history. Mutombo was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2001.
His numbers were:
- 4x DPOY
- 8x All-Star
- 3x All-NBA
- 6x All-Defense
- 2nd all-time in BLK
- 3rd all-time in BPG
Here are some mutombo highlights throughout his career:
Defensive Dominance
- Shot Blocking: Mutombo was one of the most prolific shot-blockers in NBA history. He ranks second all-time in career blocks with 3,289, trailing only Hakeem Olajuwon. His ability to protect the rim altered the way opponents played, often discouraging players from driving to the basket.
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year: Mutombo won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award four times (1995, 1997, 1998, and 2001), which ties him with Ben Wallace for the most in league history.
- Rebounding: He led the NBA in rebounding twice, averaging over 12 rebounds per game in multiple seasons. Mutombo’s rebounding prowess allowed him to consistently clean the boards on both ends of the floor.
2. Signature Playstyle
“No, No, No” Finger Wag: One of Mutombo’s trademarks was his famous finger wag after blocking a shot. It became one of the most iconic gestures in the NBA and symbolized his dominance as a shot-blocker.
Off the Court
After retiring, Mutombo ventured into business, particularly in Africa. He has invested in various sectors, including telecommunications and energy, with the goal of helping to improve infrastructure and create jobs.
Health Initiatives: Mutombo has partnered with other organizations to bring better healthcare access to underserved people in his native Africa.
The Dikembe Mutombo Foundation: In 1997, Mutombo founded the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation with the mission of improving health, education, and quality of life in the Democratic Republic of Congo (his home country) and other African nations. The foundation focuses on health care, disease prevention, and child welfare.
Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital: One of Mutombo’s most significant accomplishments is the construction of the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in Kinshasa, Congo, named after his late mother. The hospital, which opened in 2007, is a state-of-the-art 300-bed facility that provides care to thousands of patients who otherwise would have limited access to medical services. It remains one of the largest charitable hospitals in the country.G
Global Health Advocacy: Mutombo has been a global ambassador for health, working with organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, UNICEF, and the CDC Foundation. He has raised awareness about issues such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and polio prevention in Africa.
COVID-19 Response: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mutombo and his foundation worked to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and resources to hospitals and communities in Congo and other parts of Africa.
Final Word
Dikembe Mutombo learned basketball relatively late, largely after arriving in the United States for college at the age of 21. His natural height and athletic ability made him a prime candidate for the sport, but it was the mentorship of Georgetown’s John Thompson that helped him develop into an elite defender. Mutombo’s work ethic and commitment to improving his skills allowed him to progress rapidly from a raw athlete to one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history.
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In the heat of the playoff race, Atlanta Braves have postponed their games with the New York Mets due to the weather threat posed by Helene.
“The remaining games vs the New York Mets scheduled for September 25 and 26 have been postponed due to current and forecasted weather impacting the Atlanta area. Both games have been rescheduled as part of a traditional doubleheader on Monday, September 30,” the Braves said in a statement midday Wednesday.
If you want to catch the Braves-Mets series, the first game will begin at 1:10 PM ET. Game two will begin approximately 40 minutes after the last out of game one. Monday is a single admission doubleheader with only one ticket required for both games.
Tickets for the Thursday, Sept. 26 game will be honored on Monday – 9/30 – when gates open at 11:30 AM ET. “All ticket holders will receive additional information via email,” the ballclub said.
The Braves are fighting for the last playoff spot in the National League East. Check out how to watch the Braves game.
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Gumbo is so delicious because of its rich blend of flavors, textures, and the culinary traditions that go into making it. The good news is that you don’t have to go to the Bayou to find it. Yes, Atlanta has some great gumbo spots.
This article will tell you where you can find the best gumbo in Atlanta, Georgia.
Here Are the Best Restaurants for Gumbo in Atlanta
Here are some of the best places to get gumbo in Atlanta:
The Optimist
914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 477-6260
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Optimist food. “Took my seafood loving mom here for her birthday. The food was AMAZINGLY DELICIOUS! Our server was super sweet and attentive. She had great food recommendations and surprised my mom with the house rose’ sorbet with a candle at the end of the meal.”
Fishmonger
674 North Highland Ave NE Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (678) 705-9358
Here’s what one customer says about Fishmonger. “Their gumbo paired with sourdough bread is delicious. I came here twice while I was in town.”
Bon Ton
674 Myrtle St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 996-6177
Here’s what one reviewer says about Bon Ton. “I came here for the first time with my boyfriend and absolutely loved it. We came on a Friday around 4pm and had no problem sitting down quickly without a reservation. We started with drinks and the baked oysters. I had the seafood gumbo and my bf had the blackened catfish sandwich. All 3 dishes were really good. Service was prompt and the atmosphere was nice. The restaurant has a full bar with patio and inside seating. You can also order to go from the window outside. Parking located on the street and in a parking lot beside the restuarant.”
Louisiana Bistreaux
Atlanta Locations:
- 1375 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 404-762-6755
- 1496 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030, 404-963-1463
- in Buckhead inside a Hampton Inn hotel 404) 941-9545
With several locations in and around Atlanta, Louisiana Bistreaux is a go-to for authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, offering a traditional gumbo packed with seafood or chicken and sausage.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Louisiana Bistreaux. “I took my dad here for a Father’s Day lunch. I ordered the Caesar salad as an appetizer, and we both ordered the shrimp étouffée. When I say everything was delicious! Plus, the servings are a great size as well. The service was good as well. He approved as a Louisiana native! We’ll definitely be back.”
D’juan’s Bistro
3300 Cobb Pkwy SE #104, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (470) 552-2153
Here’s what one reviewer says about D’juan’s Bistro. “”I got the catfish dinner and my kids got the gumbo and a shrimp poboy. The gumbo was nicely portioned and delicious. The catfish was hot and delicious. I had 2 cocktails.”
Copeland’s New Orleans
3101 Cobb Pkwy SE #220, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (770) 612-3311
Though a chain, Copeland’s offers a classic New Orleans gumbo that hits the spot. Located in Cumberland, it’s known for its rich, authentic flavor. Here’s what one customer says about Copeland’s:
“Copeland’s is our go to restaurant for ridiculously delicious Cajun cuisine! They are consistent with offering flavorful food, an inviting environment, and take-care-of-you service. Each time we visit Copeland’s, the NOLA vibe surrounds us. Their brunch buffet has such a variety of food selections that make every delightful calorie worthwhile!”
Final Word
These restaurants are great for anyone craving a taste of New Orleans right in Atlanta.
Cajun and Creole seasonings, such as garlic, onions, peppers, and celery, give gumbo its signature punch. The heat and spice levels can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, offering a customizable taste experience.
Gumbo is rooted in the cultural heritage of Louisiana, blending African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences. The tradition and care that go into cooking gumbo, often over long periods to deepen the flavors, give it a soulful, comforting quality.
Gumbo’s thick, stew-like consistency makes it incredibly satisfying. Served over rice, it becomes a hearty meal that fills you up and warms you from the inside out.
Gumbo is often made with a flavorful base called a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) that’s cooked until it develops a deep, nutty flavor. The combination of spices like cayenne, thyme, paprika, and bay leaves adds layers of complexity.
The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.
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Red Lobster has emerged from bankruptcy following its Chapter 11 restructuring and acquisition, the company announced.
Earlier this month, a U.S. bankruptcy judge approved the seafood chain’s reorganization plan, which involved a lender group led by Fortress Investment Group taking ownership of the company.
The approval comes just four months after Red Lobster filed for bankruptcy protection in pursuit of a sale, after years of financial struggles, declining customer numbers, and increasing competition.
Damola Adamolekun, the former CEO of P.F. Chang’s, has been named Red Lobster’s new CEO. Adamolekun, who also leads RL Investor Holdings, previously outlined a long-term investment strategy for the company, including a commitment of over $60 million in new funding.
In a statement, Adamolekun remarked, “Red Lobster is now a stronger, more resilient company, and today marks the beginning of a new chapter in our history.”
Which Red Lobsters Are Closing in Georgia?
In Georgia, specifically metro Atlanta, these Red Lobsters are closing their doors permanently.
- 1050 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell
- 1956 W. Broad Street, Athens
- 2105 Veterans Blvd., Dublin
The restaurant announced the news days before Red Lobster filed for bankruptcy.
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Black Norwegian-American singer-songwriter, artist, and model, Okay Kaya is performing at The Earl on Sept. 12, 2024.
You’ll hear music from her highly-anticipated album Oh My God – That’s So Me (released on Sept. 6), her new independent album and fourth overall release. Just before she tours Europe, Okay Kaya has released her most personal project to date.
On the 12-track album, Okay Kaya artfully leans into themes of love, emotional ambivalence, ecology/nature, presence, and more. Get tickets here.
The self-produced project draws on upbeat disco, laconic folk, and blurs elements of indie, pop, and classic jazz.
Want to check out the show? Head to The Earl music venue.
Where Is The Earl Located?
The Earl is located at 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316. Here’s a map to help you find it.
For this Atlanta weekend, live music is on tap around the city. You can check out live acts at grand hotels, seedy joints, upscale big band-type options as well as restaurants, taverns and banquet halls that offer jazz and R&B standards.
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As much as they tried, Atlanta Falcons couldn’t get it done in the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Yet there are still some positives.
The 2024 schedule will continue to be a difficult one for the Birds, but then again, there’s a good chance things turn around.
Nonetheless, there were some positives that came out of the game that we should glean from.
1. The Falcons Defense is Legit
The Falcons defense allowed no touchdowns in Week 1 and is the only team to accomplish the feat.
Atlanta’s defenders continued to clog running and passing lanes, limiting the Steelers to 270 total yards. Sure, the black and yellow’s running game churned 137 yards led by Najee Harris, but the Falcons largely limited him to 20 yards and 70 yards.
2. A Real Homefield Advantage
Although it was just the first game, Dirty Bird fans came out in abundance. And yes, Pittsburgh fans traveled very well.
Attendance for the game was 72,291, which is a packed house by all accounts. If the Falcons faithful can keep this up, home-field advantage could turn into a sixth-man experience, making it difficult for opposing teams to call plays or hear themselves.
3. No Major Injuries
Most importantly, the Falcons got out of the game with no major injuries. Playing the Steelers can often leave players in black-and-blue mode. From either team the only big-name player who was hurt was Pittsburgh starting quarterback Russell Wilson, who injured the calf in training camp in late July.
According to the team’s postgame report, nobody suffered anything major.
4. They Will Get Better
Everyone knows that the Falcons’ starters have not spent a lot of time on the field together. Even former Atlanta signal caller Matt Ryan says that they simply need more time and that they were “out of sync.”
5. It’s Just One Game
The Falcons have 17 other games to play and many of them will be at home just like this one. You can bet that the Falcons will correct their mistakes and give the NFC South a run for its money.
Final Play
The Falcons proved that they can play with a team known for its stingy defense and ball-control offense. With 2 minutes in the game, the Falcons had a chance to take the lead and likely win the game. It didn’t happen, but that’s not to say that they can’t make it so next week against the Philadelphia Eagles. Do you believe? The Dirty Birds sure do.
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When it comes to a diverse lineup of delicious food places, Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta run all the bases.
If you want to checkout the culinary side of the home of the Atlanta Braves, the Taste of Truist Park and Battery Atlanta features a two-hour food adventure that includes a toast in the press box, baseball-themed food samples and stops at ASW Distillery, Mac McGee’s Irish Pub, El Super Pan and River Street Sweets.
The event is set for Thursday, Sept. 12 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Truist Park
- Los Bravos Mexican-Style Lager
- Soft Pretzel with Terrapin Taproom Beer Cheese
- Fox Bros. Pulled Pork Bar-B-Q
ASW
- Pineapple Express
- Old Fashioned Fiddler
Mac McGee
- Fish & Chips
- Super Mac Sliders
- Bangers and Mash
- Wings
El Super Pan
- Mofongo Sampler
River Street Sweets
- World Famous Pralines
Buy Tickets Here
Where To Eat at Truist Park in AtlantaTruist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, has a variety of food options. Some popular spots include:
- The Freeze – Offers soft-serve ice cream and other cold treats.
- H&F Burger – Famous for its cheeseburger, considered one of Atlanta’s best.
- Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q – Known for their Southern-style barbecue.
- Terrapin Taproom – Offers craft beer from Terrapin Brewery and BBQ.
- The Slice – A go-to spot for pizza slices.
- Chick-fil-A – Located near the third-base concourse.
- Waffle House – Serving their iconic hashbrowns and waffles.
- Field of Greens – A healthier option with salads and vegetarian-friendly food.
- El Super Pan – Latin-inspired sandwiches, like Cuban sandwiches and snacks.
There are also concession stands around the park offering ballpark favorites like hot dogs, nachos, and pretzels.
Where To Eat at The Battery Atlanta
The Battery Atlanta, located right next to Truist Park, has a wide variety of restaurants and bars. Some of the popular spots include:
- Superica – Tex-Mex cuisine offering tacos, fajitas, and margaritas.
- Antico Pizza Napoletana – Famous for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas.
- Yard House – A sports bar with an extensive menu of American fare and a huge selection of draft beers.
- Punch Bowl Social – Combines Southern-inspired food with entertainment like bowling and arcade games.
- Garden & Gun Club – Offers upscale Southern cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
- Terrapin Taproom – Features craft beer from Terrapin Brewery along with barbecue from Fox Bros.
- Wahlburgers – The popular burger chain owned by the Wahlberg family, serving burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
- C. Ellet’s Steakhouse – An upscale steakhouse offering high-quality steaks, seafood, and classic sides.
- H&F Burger – Known for its top-rated burgers.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – A dessert spot featuring unique ice cream flavors.
The Battery also has many grab-and-go spots, bars, and coffee shops, making it a vibrant dining destination before or after a Braves game or event.
Final Word
Food events are a weekly thing in Atlanta. Many options can be found both in the stadium and at The Battery Atlanta right outside the park.
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It’s true in food and in fashion: Just add honey to make anything instantly better. Honey blonde wigs are having a moment and we’re here for it.
If you’re looking for a honey blonde wig, we’re going to show you some of the best ones out there.
Here are three tips for buying wigs:
- Look for ones that consist of human hair. They look more realistic.
- Can’t find human hair? Opt for a high-quality synthetic wig.
- Choose a hand-tied wig, if possible. They will sit on your head the best.
Honey Blonde Wigs: Where To Buy Them
Some of these wigs get their blondness from highlights that originate at the roots. Others have more of a bleached hue that shines throughout the entire hairpiece. In all cases, the blondeness is mixed with a honey quality that gives the wig more shine and body.
Let’s go over some great honey blonde wigs you can rock with just about any outfit.
Body Wave Style Highlight Ombre Lace Frontal Wig Human Hair Wigs #4/27
26 Inch 4/27 Highlight Wig Brazilian Straight Human Hair Wig
Brazilian Straight Human Hair Ombre Brown Honey Blonde
180% Density Human Hair Curly Honey Blonde Wig
Nadula Honey Blonde 13X4 Lace Frontal Highlight Body Wave Human Hair
BLY Highlight Human Hair Lace Front Wigs Deep Wave
ISEE Hair Transparent Human Hair Deep Wave
Brennas Hair Ombre Highlight Human Hair Wig Brown Honey Blonde
UNICE Body Wave Human Hair 10A Brazilian Remy
Final Word
When it comes to blonde hair, there’s something about having the golden touch that gives you more self confidence. One of our favorite colors is honey blonde.
No matter if you choose a wig made of human hair or synthetic material, you can achieve a natural look by styling it.
Don’t forget to have fun with your hairpiece. Try different styles: Rock bangs, curls and twists that accentuate your face. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Check out our Wigs Page for more hairpieces.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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Debby has strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane in the Gulf, with maximum winds of 75 mph.
The warm Gulf waters are fueling further intensification, and Debby may get a bit stronger before making landfall along Florida’s Big Bend on Monday.
As it moves inland, Debby will turn eastward, guided by a stalled front across the southeast. It is expected to weaken but may re-emerge in the Atlantic mid-week, turning north and moving up the East Coast.
Will Debby Hit Atlanta?
The highest likelihood of rain is south and east of metro Atlanta, where rain has already begun in southern and coastal Georgia. The storm is expected to have minimal impact on the metro Atlanta area.
Debby is the fourth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, following Tropical Storm Alberto, Hurricane Beryl, and Tropical Storm Chris, all of which formed in June.
Tropical storms and hurricanes can cause river flooding and overwhelm drainage systems and canals.
Storm Safety: 3 Tips
Seek shelter in a sturdy building and stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. Stay on the lower floors of multi-story buildings to avoid wind exposure.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid as necessary and seek medical attention if needed.
Avoid Flooded Areas
Stay away from flooded roads, bridges, and buildings. Floodwaters can hide dangers like debris and downed power lines.
High winds can shatter glass and cause debris to fly, posing significant dangers.
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Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump didn’t mince words talking about Georgia officials during his August 3 visit to Atlanta.
Trump took verbal shots at Gov. Brian Kemp, Secretary of State Brian Raffensperger and Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to the delight of the crowd.
On Gov. Brian Kemp, Trump credited himself with getting him elected.
“He’s a disloyal guy, and he’s a very average governor. Little Brian. Little Brian Kemp. Bad guy,” Trump said.
Kemp also responded to a comment made by Kemp’s wife, who said that Trump had not “earned” her vote.
On social media, Kemp responded to Trump, saying: “My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats – not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.“
As if what he said about the Georgia officials weren’t enough, Trump also trashed them on his social network Truth Social.
Raffensperger responded in kind after Trump said he needed him to do “his job” when it came to elections: “Georgia’s elections are secure. The winner here in November will reflect the will of the people. History has taught us this type of message doesn’t sell well here in Georgia, sir.”