Category: News

Wellstar Health System announced Thursday morning a partnership with the Integral Group to redevelop the Atlanta Medical Center site on Boulevard in Old Fourth Ward.

The redevelopment plan is in alignment with the land-use plan approved by the Atlanta City Council last month.

The new project, which includes housing, retail, greenspace, and a health and wellness component, has garnered support from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and various community groups.

“We look forward to working closely with the City to build on its revitalization efforts and bring our shared vision of a vibrant, healthy addition to the Old Fourth Ward,” said Candice Saunders, president and CEO of Wellstar Health System.

The Integral Group, a national development firm based in Atlanta and founded by Egbert Perry, first gained prominence by transforming Techwood Homes into Centennial Place, a mixed-income, mixed-use community. The company has since been involved in numerous community redevelopment projects across the country.

Atlanta Medical Center’s Abrupt Closure

In October 2022, Wellstar announced the closure of the Atlanta Medical Center due to financial losses and declining patient volumes. This closure marked the end of its 120-year legacy and left a significant gap in healthcare services, particularly trauma care, in Atlanta’s downtown area.

Community Impact

AMC’s closure was met with significant concern and protests from the local community, especially because of its central role in providing care to underserved populations and its status as a major employer in the area. Its shutdown left Grady Memorial Hospital as the primary trauma center for Atlanta, increasing pressure on that facility.

The Atlanta Medical Center (AMC), located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, had a long and storied history, playing a significant role in the city’s healthcare system for over a century before its closure.

Early History

• Founded: The hospital originally opened in 1901 as Tabernacle Infirmary, a small facility linked to the Tabernacle Baptist Church, founded by Reverend Len G. Broughton. The infirmary’s mission was to provide medical care to Atlanta’s underprivileged communities.
• Growth and Name Changes: As the facility grew, it became known as Georgia Baptist Hospital in 1913, reflecting its new affiliation with the Georgia Baptist Convention. The hospital continued expanding throughout the 20th century, becoming a major teaching hospital.

Mid-20th Century to Modern Era

• Teaching Hospital: Over time, AMC became a full-service teaching hospital with a focus on advanced medical education. It was well-regarded for its residency programs, especially in trauma care, surgery, and internal medicine.
• Acquisition by Tenet Healthcare: In 1997, Georgia Baptist Medical Center was sold to Tenet Healthcare, a national for-profit hospital system, and the facility was renamed Atlanta Medical Center. The hospital continued serving a diverse population, particularly in emergency and trauma care, as it held a Level 1 trauma center designation.

Facilities and Specialties

• Level 1 Trauma Center: As one of only a few Level 1 trauma centers in the state of Georgia, AMC was a crucial resource for critical emergency care, often treating victims of major accidents, shootings, and other trauma-related incidents.
• Centers of Excellence: AMC also developed specialized programs for stroke care, heart surgery, orthopedics, and women’s health, attracting patients from across the region.

Change in Ownership and Decline

In 2016, AMC was acquired by Wellstar Health System, a non-profit organization with hospitals in Cobb County and other parts of metro Atlanta. However, despite its historical significance and medical importance, the hospital faced financial challenges.

In announcing its closure in 2022, Wellstar said it had tried to turn a profit with AMC, but nothing worked.

“For several years, Wellstar has continued to invest in and operate AMC with significant losses to provide more time to partner on a creative, long-term, sustainable solution for the hospital’s future,” Wellstar CEO Candice L. Saunders said at the time. “After an exhaustive search for a solution that would support the healthcare needs of the community, we are disappointed that a sustainable solution at AMC has not emerged.”

Now, hope for the site has emerged anew.

Final Word

While WellStar didn’t divulge a timeframe or talk financial numbers about the redevelopment plan for AMC, the news that the site would be turned into something productive was met with cheers.

Old Fourth Ward is known for its new development. And places to eat. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.

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The 2025 rivalry game between Georgia Tech and Georgia will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the teams announced on Tuesday, Oct. 15.

The game will mark the first time in the modern era that the “Clean Old-Fashioned Hate” matchup will be played outside of Bobby Dodd Stadium or Sanford Stadium.

Georgia Bulldogs vs. Yellowjackets at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The football rivalry between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets is one of the oldest and most storied in college football. Known as “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate,” the annual matchup is a fierce battle between the University of Georgia (UGA) and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).

While Georgia has been a perennial powerhouse for the last few decades, the Yellowjackets have had some good stretches among those years.

Here’s an overview of the football history between these two teams:

Origins of the Rivalry

• The rivalry began on November 4, 1893, with Georgia Tech defeating Georgia 28-6 in Athens, marking the start of a bitter competition.
• The teams faced off regularly until the 1920s, when a conflict over player eligibility led to a brief pause in the rivalry. It resumed in 1925 and has been played annually ever since.

Series History

• The Georgia Bulldogs lead the overall series with a dominant record. As of 2023, Georgia holds a significant edge in the rivalry, with more than 70 victories.
• The rivalry has featured several long win streaks by both teams, though Georgia has generally had the upper hand in modern times.

Notable Moments

• 1942: Georgia, led by Heisman Trophy winner Frank Sinkwich, defeated Georgia Tech 34-0. This was part of an undefeated season for the Bulldogs, who went on to claim their first consensus national championship.
• 1952: Georgia Tech won a national championship under head coach Bobby Dodd, and that season they also beat Georgia 23-9, during a period when Tech dominated the rivalry.
• 1999: One of the most controversial games in the rivalry. Georgia Tech won 51-48 in overtime, but a questionable call on a Georgia fumble late in the game led to the result being hotly debated for years.
• 2008: Georgia Tech broke a seven-year losing streak with a 45-42 victory in Athens. It was their first win at Sanford Stadium since 2000.
• 2019: Georgia Bulldogs won 52-7, showcasing their dominance in recent years as part of a run under head coach Kirby Smart.

Program Success

• Georgia Bulldogs:
  • One of the most successful programs in college football, with four national championships (1942, 1980, 2021, 2022).
  • UGA has won 14 SEC championships and produced multiple Heisman Trophy winners, including Herschel Walker in 1982.
  • They are known for their dominance in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and have consistently been a national title contender.
• Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets:
  • Georgia Tech has won four national championships (1917, 1928, 1952, 1990).
  • They were a dominant force in college football in the mid-20th century under coaches like Bobby Dodd, but they now play in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), where they’ve seen less consistent success in recent decades.
  • Tech has produced several notable players and coaches, including Calvin Johnson and legendary coach Bobby Dodd.

Recent Years

In recent years, Georgia has consistently been a top contender for national championships, while Georgia Tech has been in a rebuilding phase. This has led to several lopsided victories in favor of Georgia, though the rivalry remains deeply passionate for both fanbases.

The rivalry has also evolved beyond football, representing a larger cultural and academic competition between a public state university (Georgia) and a prestigious technological institute (Georgia Tech).

Final Word

Downtown Atlanta has been grabbing some big-time sports events of late. That means more people and places to eat downtown.

If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

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Radio personality and comedian Wanda Smith has died, according to media reports.

Wanda Smith was a well-known comedian and radio personality based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Wanda Smith Cause of Death

Smith passed away Saturday, Oct. 12 due to cancer, one day after her 58th birthday.

Her friend and former colleague Frank Ski said that he was at his son Paxton’s chrisening when he got the call about Smith. “I loved Wanda a lot,” he said, adding that he’s been dealing with a lot of death lately.

In a statement, 103 Senior Vice President and Market Manager Rick Caffey said:

“Our hearts are weighing heavier today as we grieve the loss of our beloved Wanda Smith, someone who always made us smile and who was a big part of V-103 for years. We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to her family.”

In her role at V-103, dating back to 2006, Wanda Smith brought so much joy and care servicing the Atlanta community. Wanda’s impact touched lives beyond making us laugh… Many times she championed efforts behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of those who were without.

She gained widespread recognition for her long tenure as a co-host on the popular Atlanta radio station V-103, where she was part of “The Frank and Wanda Morning Show.”

Smith leaves behind her husband, LaMorris Sellers, and their three children.

Fellow comedian Lonnie Love posted on social media that she and Smith began Thor comedic careers together.

“I am sad to hear about the passing of comedian and radio host Wanda Smith,” she posted on X. “She was a staple in the Atlanta area and we came up in comedy together. She was the ultimate entertainer. Rest now Sis. Condolences to The Smith Family.

How Wanda Smith Got Her Start

Wanda Smith began her career in comedy in Atlanta in the late 1980s.

She got her start by performing stand-up comedy at local clubs around the city, which helped her develop her comedic style. Atlanta has long had a vibrant comedy scene, and Smith quickly became a fixture in it, earning a reputation for her sharp, relatable humor.

Her big break came when she was discovered by radio station V-103. She initially made appearances on the station before becoming a permanent part of “The Frank and Wanda Morning Show,” where she co-hosted with Frank Ski. Her success on the radio amplified her comedy career, allowing her to reach a larger audience and perform at bigger venues.

Smith’s comedic talent and quick wit made her a standout in Atlanta’s entertainment industry. Over the years, she built a strong following, both for her stand-up performances and her work in radio, helping to solidify her place as one of the city’s top comedians.

Smith was known for her humor, quick wit, and engaging interviews with celebrities. Her work on the radio helped her build a strong local following in Atlanta.

In addition to her radio career, Wanda Smith performed as a stand-up comedian, often appearing in comedy clubs around Atlanta and beyond. She was known for her observational humor, often drawing on her life experiences, relationships, and family.

One of the more public moments in her career occurred in 2018, when she was involved in a high-profile incident with comedian Katt Williams. Williams made some jokes at her expense during a radio interview, which led to a public back-and-forth between the two.

Despite this, Wanda Smith remained a significant figure in Atlanta’s comedy scene and continued to be recognized for her contributions to both radio and comedy in the area.

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All this Diwali are taking place soon in Atlanta, Georgia. The Diwali Festival kicks off with two very important partnerships.

Atlantic Station is teaming up with the Atlanta Film Society — a key player in the city’s arts scene, recognized for championing independent artists and organizing the renowned Atlanta Film Festival — and NaanStop, a beloved family-owned Indian restaurant in Atlantic Station, to bring you its inaugural Diwali Festival this month.

What Is the Diwali Festival?

The Diwali Festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a treasured holiday celebrated across India and around the world. The event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.

Marking the end of the festive season, Diwali gets its name from rows of clay lamps (deepa) lit outside homes to represent the inner light that wards off spiritual darkness. Join Atlantic Station for a memorable evening of cultural festivities.

When Is the Diwali Festival?

The Diwali Festival this year is set for Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.. at Atlantic Station | Atlantic Green | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363. Admission is free with two hours of complimentary parking.

Explore Your Atlanta

Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.

First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.

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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.

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.

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.