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The friends, family and community around Bankhead Seafood’s iconic owner Helen Brown Harden is mourning after her death was announced on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024.
“For more than 50 years, Ms. Harden shared a culinary treasure with our community, creating a beloved institution. As we recently celebrated the reopening of Bankhead Seafood by Mike and T.I., we’re reminded of Ms. Harden’s lasting impact on our city,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement. “Her legacy will live on, not only through her food but in the hearts of everyone who was touched by her dedication and vision in serving our community.”
Harden was on hand just two weeks ago when the famed Bankhead Seafood re-opened under the ownership of hometown entrepreneurs and rappers T.I. and Killer Mike.
The restaurant posted a tribute to Ms. Harden on Facebook, saying “It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a true Atlanta legend, Mrs. Helen Harden, affectionately known to the neighborhood as ‘Mama.’ We extend our deepest condolences to the Harden family as we join in mourning this extraordinary woman who graced our lives and community with her unmatched kindness and love.
The message continued, “For over 50 years, Mrs. Harden nourished the city of Atlanta, both with her cooking and her boundless spirit. Her unwavering dedication and compassion touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Final Word
The black Atlanta restaurant community will no doubt miss Ms. Harden, but the great food continues. If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
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.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Sola Salons Johns Creek, an upscale salon suites concept, is set to open its doors in the coming days and is celebrating the occasion by offering an invitation to the public to get a sneak peek.
The sneak peek, hosted by Sola Salons and local general manager Mike Balsamides will be on Monday December 9th at 11:00am – 2:00pm.
The opening of Sola’s newest salon in Johns Creek, Georgia, is located in Old Alabama Square at the crossroads of Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek.
The new Sola Salons features a collection of boutique, move-in-ready salon studios with floor-to-ceiling walls and glass doors that fully close. This unique layout and intentional design allows beauty professionals to operate their individual businesses in complete privacy and customized one-on-one spaces.
The local team is excited to welcome beauty professionals in the area for a tour of the new salon and the opportunity to learn more about life at Sola Salons. You are invited to enjoy light snacks and beverages, pick-up some Sola swag and meet with a sheer sharpener on-site offering free sharpening for any interested beauty professionals who attend the event.
“We are thrilled to expand the Sola Salons family in Atlanta to the Johns Creek area. There are incredible possibilities for salon professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit to expand their businesses at Sola Salons, while still feeling like part of the thriving salon community in Atlanta” said Mike Balsamides, General Manager of Sola Salons Atlanta. “We’re excited to welcome the beauty professionals in the area to join the over 20,000 independent salon owners running their businesses at Sola Salons.”
Sola provides a turnkey environment for experienced hair stylists, cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, barbers, waxers, med spa professionals, massage therapists, makeup artists, lash specialists, professional micro bladers, hair extension specialists, health and wellness professionals and more. Studios are equipped with:
- Oversized sliding/locking door
- Floor-to-ceiling sound-insulated walls
- Modern custom cabinetry and high-end hydraulic styling chair
- Full spectrum LED lighting with dimmers to emulate natural daylight
- Utilities and WiFi included in weekly rental fee
- On-site laundry facilities and a comfortable break room to relax between clients
- BookNow to help grow your clientele and operate your business
- Sustainability is at the forefront of design, construction and operations
- Unmatched service and support from a local management team
Since its inception in 2004, Sola has grown to more than 750+ locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Sola is committed to industry leading innovation and a fun salon environment to better support its rapidly growing community of more than 20,000+ independent beauty professionals.
“As the dominant brand in the salon suites segment, we have created a turnkey solution for thousands of beauty professionals to explore a better life as an entrepreneur. We are driven by our desire to use real estate to help aspiring business owners achieve their dreams and live their best lives,” said Ben Jones, CEO of Radiance Holdings (parent company of Sola Salons). “With a wide variety of proprietary resources and tools, such as state-of-the-art technology and integrated marketing features, we ensure that our Sola beauty professionals are set up for long-term success from the very beginning.”
Where Is Sola Salons in Johns Creek?
Sola Salons Johns Creek is located at 3005 Old Alabama Square, Unit 410, Johns Creek, GA 30022. Here is a map to help you find it.
The salon offers 37 studios and 7,500 square feet of first-class amenities for salon professionals and their clients. A limited number of private suites are still available for rent. For more information or to take a tour, visit solasalons.com, or call 470-567-5583 or email inquiries@solaatlanta.com.
Check out the best hair salons in Atlanta. Check out our Beauty Page for other ways to get shaped up.
- Oversized sliding/locking door
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There’s going to be a new fried chicken joint in Atlanta, and it punches above its weight in the Southeast. Raising Cane’s is expanding throughout Georgia, with plans to open in Midtown Atlanta as well in Cumming, Conyers and Kennesaw in 2025.
In Atlanta, Raising Cane’s will take over the spot where Krystal is now at the intersection of 14th Street and Northside Drive.
Raising Cane’s is a fast-food restaurant franchise known for specializing in chicken fingers, and it has grown into a popular chain with locations across the United States and internationally. Here’s an overview of the history of Raising Cane’s.
What Is Raising Cane’s Menu Known For?
Photo credit: Raising Cane’s/Instagram
Raising Cane’s is primarily known for its chicken fingers (look out, Chick-fil-A). The restaurant’s menu is simple and focused, offering high-quality, hand-battered, and fried chicken tenders as its main offering. Here’s what Raising Cane’s is particularly known for:
- Chicken Fingers: The restaurant’s main dish is its chicken fingers, which are freshly prepared, hand-breaded, and fried to a crispy golden perfection. These tenders are the foundation of their menu.
- Cane’s Sauce: Raising Cane’s has a signature dipping sauce, called Cane’s Sauce, which is a creamy, tangy sauce made with a secret recipe. It’s widely popular and often considered the perfect complement to their chicken fingers.
- Simple Menu: Unlike many fast-food chains that offer a broad variety of items, Raising Cane’s has a streamlined menu, focusing on just a few items: chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast. This simplicity allows them to focus on perfecting each item.
- Texas Toast: Their Texas toast, a thick slice of buttered and grilled bread, is another fan favorite, often served as a side dish with their chicken fingers.
- Crinkle-Cut Fries: Raising Cane’s serves crispy, crinkle-cut fries, which pair perfectly with their chicken fingers and Cane’s Sauce.
Raising Cane’s: A History
In 1996, entrepreneur Todd Graves opened the first Raising Cane’s location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, near the Louisiana State University (LSU) campus. The restaurant’s concept was straightforward but effective: it specialized in high-quality, fresh chicken fingers, served with crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and their signature dipping sauce.
The restaurant’s slogan, “One Love,” emphasized the idea of focusing on one thing and doing it exceptionally well, which became the brand’s central philosophy.
The early success of the Baton Rouge location paved the way for expansion. By the early 2000s, Raising Cane’s began opening new locations in Louisiana and other southern states. The restaurant chain’s focus on offering a simple, limited menu of chicken fingers allowed them to streamline operations and maintain high food quality, which resonated with customers.
Today, the company remains privately owned by Todd Graves and a few other key executives. Its focus on chicken fingers and its commitment to quality, paired with its distinctive culture and customer experience, have made it a beloved brand in the fast-food industry.
Key Points About Raising Cane’s
- Founder: Todd Graves
- Founded: 1996 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Signature Dish: Chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and signature Cane’s sauce
- Expansion: Rapid national and international growth, with over 500 locations as of 2024
- Philosophy: “One Love” – focusing on doing one thing (chicken fingers) exceptionally well
- Employee Culture: Emphasizes employee satisfaction and leadership development
Final Word
Raising Cane’s is also planning to open more than 100 new locations in 2024 in new markets. The Baton Rouge-based fast-food chain is opening soon in the following markets:
- Atlanta — Raising Cane’s plans to open restaurants in Cumming, Conyers, and Kennesaw in late 2024, and its first intown location in West Midtown in spring 2026.
- Snellville –Raising Cane’s is moving forward with plans to open a restaurant in Snellville.
- Findlay — Raising Cane’s has submitted a site plan for a new location in Findlay.
- Boston — Raising Cane’s plans to open at least three new locations in Greater Boston, including one at 101 Arch St in Downtown Crossing.
- Michigan — Developers are considering a Raising Cane’s location near the corner of Milham Avenue and Westnedge Avenue in Portage.
Chicken tenders are about to explode in popularity with the entry of Raising Cane’s to the Atlanta fast-food market. For a more full-service experience, check out the best places to eat in Midtown Atlanta.
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If you want to try some diverse cuisine in a small-town atmosphere, you might want to check out Sandy Springs. Yes, you can now eat Sandy Springs.
What does the city taste like? Greek, Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Brazilian, French, Indian and more.
Eat Sandy Springs Along the City’s Restaurant Row
The city on Nov. 16 introduced its Restaurant Row, a corridor of culinary goodness that is quickly becoming a dining mecca.
How Many Restaurants Are Located in Sandy Springs?
More than 120 independent eateries are located along the 10 miles that run through Sandy Springs on Roswell Road, the city says.
You can find everything from Mediterranean fare to pho, vermicelli bowls, Italian, Mexican and more along the corridor.
Among the newest eateries in Sandy Springs are Pendolino, an Italian concept from famed local chef owner Kevin Maxey, and Social Bites Food Hub, a two-story food hall with a mix of fun offerings and live entertainment on the weekends.
A short distance from the Skate City Springs, you can find more great places to eat.
What To Eat at Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs has some great places to eat and what I love are the particular dishes you can find on their respective menus. Here are some of the faves:
C&S Seafood & Oyster Bar – Sandy Springs
6125 Roswell Rd Suite 700, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (470) 427-3826
Photo credit: C&S Seafood & Oyster Here’s what one customer says about C&S Seafood & Oyster Bar. “Can you say amazing!!! The best charbroiled oysters ever! The Cesar salad was great I loved the dressing! The bread was even great! Great simple Atmosphere great vibe! Our Waiter was wonderful great experience!”
The Charbroiled Oysters on a Half Shell at C&S Seafood and Oyster Bar are to die for, served with garlic sauce and parmesan.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
4600 Roswell Rd Bldg C Ste 110, Sandy Springs, GA 30342 | (404) 649-6334
Here’s what one diner at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar says. “Cute atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for freebies and discounts on your meal. The ingredients seem fairly high quality and well prepared. Definitely recommend the Tupelo Shrimp and Grits and the Fried Green Tomatoes, some of the better versions of those dishes I’ve had anywhere. The Creole Shrimp Linguine, while decent and filling, was a bit bland so not really worth ordering compared to the shrimp and grits.”
Abuelos Mexican Kitchen and Cantina
6631 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 565-0410
Here’s what one customer says about Abuelos. “Definitely looking forward to our second visit here. Hands down best margaritas and oh did I mention the outstanding and superb steak tacos we had. Best homemade salsa ever!!! And best customer service bar none. So if your looking the best go to Abuelos mexican. Roswell rd Sandy Springs.”
And at Italian eatery Tre Vele, you don’t want to miss Tuesdays, when you can enjoy freshly grated cheese from the cheese wheel.
There’s also the Media Noche at Cubanos and the Cazuelita Barcelona at Pisco Latin Kitchen. If you love Shawarma, you’ll love Rumi’s Kitchen as well as SabaRaba’s.
Final Bite
You don’t have to travel to downtown Atlanta or Midtown to find excellent restaurants, Sandy Springs is where it’s at for new restaurants as well as old faithful spots. Check out these great restaurants in Sandy Springs.
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A newbornwestern lowland gorilla has died, according to Zoo Atlanta.
Kambera, one of the zoo’s western lowland gorillas, gave birth on Nov. 13, the 27th gorilla born at Zoo Atlanta, according to officials. The baby died later in the day.
The father was Willie B. Jr., the son of Zoo Atlanta’s most famous gorilla, Willie B.
The infant initially had a strong grip, appeared healthy, and was nursing well, but things soon went awry.
Read up on everything you want to know about Zoo Atlanta.
Before the infant’s health deteriorated, zoo officials were optimistic.
“We are very encouraged and cautiously optimistic that the baby will be able to nurse regularly in the near future,” said Sam Rivera, Zoo Atlanta’s vice president of animal health. “Intervention is never a preferred measure unless an infant’s health is in question, as we always want to see gorilla babies remain with their mothers with no human interference. Fortunately, our teams were prepared for a variety of outcomes with this birth. We continue to closely watch both Kambera and the infant to ensure both remain healthy.”
This newborn was among more than two dozen gorillas born at Zoo Atlanta since the debut of The Ford African Rain Forest in 1988.
“The legacy of Willie B. is a story deeply rooted in Atlanta’s history,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “Generations of Atlantans have connected with Willie B., his descendants, and the larger message of gorilla conservation. We are excited to see this legacy continue and to welcome a new ambassador for this critically endangered species.”
Willie B., Jr.’s four sisters—Kudzoo, Olympia, Sukari, and Lulu— help make up Zoo Atlanta’s gorilla legacy as group members and mothers. Kudzoo, Sukari, and Lulu still reside at Zoo Atlanta with their own offspring, while Olympia lives at another AZA-accredited organization and is the mother of a son.
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One of the most harrowing moments for children in the entire Southeast was the Atlanta child murders from 1979 to 1981.
In this article, we’ll revisit the saga and cover why this era of Atlanta crime resonates even more today.
The Atlanta Child Murders: What Happened?
In the late 1970s, Atlanta was a place of burgeoning hope and community after turning the corner on Jim Crow’s civil and racial strife that had swept through much of the Old South. Atlanta’s progressiveness was starting to gain it corporate and political clout far and wide.
Amid this optimistic backdrop, vicious crime began to pop up here and there. By 1979, Atlanta led the nation in overall homicides among major cities.
Between 1979 and 1981, nearly 29 African-American children, teenagers, and young adults—predominantly boys—were abducted and murdered in Atlanta. Many of these killings exhibited similar characteristics, prompting a collaborative investigation involving multiple agencies. In 1980, the FBI joined the case, which was designated ATKID (Atlanta Child Murders) in their files.
The investigation concluded after Wayne Bertram Williams was convicted of two murders in 1982, and authorities subsequently linked him to 20 more of the 29 killings.
Authorities at the time focused on Atlanta’s youth culture, which was often characterized by poverty and less than sturdy home circumstances. “Ghetto children are usually left alone with an overburdened mother, or an absentee mother who has the dual job of raising a family and earning a living, so they try to make their own family units among peers outside the home, on the street,” Charles King, director of Atlanta’s Urban Crisis Center, told the Washington Post at the time.
The Atlanta Child Murders: How They Began
The Atlanta child murders began in the summer of 1979 when young Black children and teenagers in Atlanta started disappearing under suspicious circumstances. The first known victim was 14-year-old Edward Hope Smith, who disappeared on July 21, 1979, along with Alfred Evans, also 14. Their bodies were later found in a wooded area in Atlanta with evidence of strangulation. This marked the start of what would become a series of disappearances and murders over the next two years, mostly involving young Black boys and teens from lower-income areas of the city.
The disappearances initially didn’t raise immediate alarm among law enforcement, partly due to the victims’ demographics. However, as the number of cases grew, patterns began to emerge. The victims were mostly African-American, predominantly male, and many were taken from similar neighborhoods. The children’s ages ranged widely, from as young as 9 to young adults in their early 20s. Reports of witnesses seeing some children last being approached by strangers or taken in vehicles contributed to growing fear in the community.
It wasn’t until 1980, when the body count had risen significantly and parents and community leaders began pressuring authorities, that the Atlanta Police Department launched a large-scale, multi-agency investigation. On Nov. 17, 1980, the FBI joined the probe, devoting more than 24 agents and other personnel to the case full time.
The case became a high-profile investigation known as the “Atlanta Child Murders,” officially named “ATKID” by the FBI. Over time, 29 cases were tied to the investigation, but despite substantial effort, the case proved challenging due to scarce physical evidence and inconsistent witness statements.
More than 50 witnesses testified in the case, but questions remained. Why weren’t law enforcement able to make an arrest? Many openly suggested that if the victims were white, the police would be galvanized and more determined to find the killer or killers.
“It’s like the Jack the Ripper case,” “Dr. Larry Howard, director of the Georgia Crime Laboratory, said at the time. He was referring to infamous London serial killer in 1900s century.
With metro Atlanta on edge, city officials put into effect a curfew for those under age 17. You had to be off the streets from 7 a.m. to 6 a.m. seven nights a week. Any youth caught outdoors after sundown were typically brought to the police station for questioning.
Where Were The Victims Found Around Atlanta?
The Atlanta Child Murders took place across various locations in Atlanta, primarily in predominantly African American neighborhoods. Here are some of the key locations where victims were found or went missing:
- Nisky Lake Road – Alfred Evans, 14, and Edward Hope Smith’s bodies were found here. Evans was clothed only in slacks and there was no sign of a struggle. Smith was on the way to his southwest Atlanta home from a skating rink when he vanished.
- Simpson Road (now Joseph E. Boone Boulevard) – Milton Harvey, 14, disappeared from this area while on an errand. His body was found Nov. 5, 1979, in the Redwine area of East Point.
- West End – Yusuf Bell, 9, went missing after running an errand near the West End neighborhood.
- Flat Shoals Road – Eric Middlebrooks, 14, was last seen working on his bicycle just off Flat Shoals Road, less than 1/2 mile from I-20 and near both Moreland Avenue and Memorial Drive.
- DeKalb County – Bodies of several victims, including 11-year-old Patrick Baltazar, 13-year-old Curtis Walker, Christopher Richardson and Clifford Jones, were found in this county. Aaron Wyche, who fell or was dropped from a 25-foot high bridge, was found in DeKalb County on June 24, 1980.
- Cheshire Bridge Road – Aaron Jackson’s body was discovered near this area.
- Kimberly Court Apartments – Timothy Hill’s body was found behind these apartments.
- Riverdale Road – The body of Lubie Geter was discovered in a wooded area off this road on Feb. 5, 1981. Authorities said he had been strangled, possibly in a choke-hold.
- Perry Homes – Latonya Wilson disappeared from this public housing complex.
- High Tower Road – Patrick Rogers disappeared from this area.
- Flat Shoals Road – Charles Stephens was last seen in this area. His body was clothed only in blue jeans and one tennis shoe when it was discovered on October 10, 1980.
- Sigman Road – On January 23, 1981, Terry Pue’s body was found lying approximately one half mile from Interstate 20 off Sigman Road in Rockdale County.
- Chattahochee Riever – Bodies of Jimmy Ray Payne and Nathaniel Cater were found near the South River along this area. Payne’s body was discovered clad only in red shorts in the Chattahoochee River on April 27, 1981. The autopsy said the cause of death was “asphyxia by an undetermined method.” Cater’s body was discovered in the Chattahoochee River on Sunday, May 24, 1981.
These cases spanned a broad area in and around Atlanta, from neighborhoods like West End and Capitol Avenue to outlying locations in DeKalb County and near the South River. The dispersion of locations contributed to the fear and challenge in tracing the pattern of these tragic events.
“The kids were taken because they were available and vulnerable, and the vulnerability was made possible by the poverty in which they lived,” Joseph Lowery, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, said at the time. “As long as homes are overcrowded and children feel they have to get out to make ends meet and expose themselves and become street-wise, then society has to bear part of the blame,” he said.
Who Did It?
Who committed the heinous Atlanta Child Murders has long been a controversial issue and subject of much debate.
The Atlanta Child Murders case was surrounded by numerous rumors and speculations regarding who was responsible for the killings. Some of the notable rumors and theories included:
1. Multiple Perpetrators
There were numerous theories suggesting that the murders might be the work of a group or multiple individuals rather than a single perpetrator. This theory was fueled by the geographic spread and the nature of some of the cases.
Some community members speculated that there may have been a larger conspiracy involving law enforcement or local officials, suggesting that the murders were part of a racially motivated plot to harm the African American community.
3. Drugs and Gangs
There were rumors connecting the murders to drug trafficking and gang activity, with suggestions that the victims may have been involved in drug-related crimes or that gangs were using the children to send messages.
”We have no eyewitnesses,” Lee P. Brown, Atlanta’s Public Safety Commissioner, said at the time. ”We don’t know where the murders were committed so we have no crime scene at which to gather evidence, and we certainly have no confession.”
4. Pedophilia Ring
Some theories posited that a pedophilia ring could have been operating in the area, leading to the abduction and murder of young children. This theory was particularly prevalent due to the high number of child victims.
In certain circles, there were more bizarre rumors that included suggestions of supernatural forces or voodoo practices being involved in the murders.
The New York Times said at the time, “After months of investigating a case that now appears to be much more diffuse and complicated than originally thought, officials believe that as many as nine or 10 killers, acting separately and perhaps for different reasons, might be responsible for the disappearances and deaths of the 18 boys and two girls, who ranged in age from 7 to 16 years old. Two other boys, one 10 and the other 16, are officially missing and feared dead.”
”Very few of these 20 deaths are connected, maybe six to eight at the most,” Dr. Joseph Burton, the medical examiner of DeKalb County, told the Times. ”I’m not at all sure that we had a single killer methodically snatching children at the beginning of all this,” Dr. Burton said. ”But if that man didn’t exist then, we have created him and he is killing now. We are dealing with a suddenly rising number of cases that are connected.”
As for law enforcement, they pointed at one main: suspect Wayne Williams.
Wayne Williams
Photo credit: FBI
Wayne Bertram Williams was a 23-year-old freelance photographer and aspiring music promoter from Atlanta who became the prime suspect in the Atlanta Child Murders case.
Raised in the city’s Dixie Hills neighborhood, Williams was the only child of Faye and Homer Williams, both of whom were college-educated school teachers.
Williams was arrested in 1981 after he was connected to the murders through a series of circumstantial evidence, including fibers and hairs found on some of the victims that allegedly matched those from Williams’ home, car, and dog.
Prosecution witnesses testified that Williams often remarked that he didn’t like poor black kids and blamed them for many things.
Williams first came to the attention of investigators in May 1981, when police were conducting surveillance on Atlanta’s bridges, suspecting the killer might be dumping bodies in the Chattahoochee River.
Early in the morning of May 22, police heard a splash under the James Jackson Parkway bridge and later pulled over Williams, who was driving a station wagon near the bridge. Two days later, the body of Nathaniel Cater, a 27-year-old man, was discovered downstream, leading police to focus on Williams as a suspect.
Williams was eventually charged with and convicted of the murders of two adults, Nathaniel Cater and Jimmy Ray Payne. Although he was not tried for any of the child murders, law enforcement linked him to at least 20 of the other 29 victims based on fiber evidence, patterns, and circumstantial factors.
Years later, it was learned that Williams may have had CIA training of some sort, although he was long declined to elaborate.
His conviction led authorities to close the case on the Atlanta Child Murders, although debate over his guilt in the children’s cases continues. Many in the community and some experts have questioned whether Williams was responsible for all the murders, citing inconsistencies in the evidence and suggesting that other suspects may have been involved in at least some of the killings.
Through the years, Williams has maintained his innocence, and advocates for his case argue that the investigation’s focus on him may have left other leads unexplored. The case has been periodically reopened to review evidence with new forensic technology, but Williams remains imprisoned for the two murders for which he was convicted.
Lingering Questions
After Williams was convicted, some continued to hold the belief that he was innocent, arguing that the evidence against him was insufficient, and suggesting that law enforcement had wrongfully targeted him. These rumors often reflected the community’s fears and mistrust, particularly within the context of racial tensions and the handling of the investigations by authorities at the time.
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Lack of representation is why the About Black Culture Letter Tracing Alphabet Workbook was created.
After writing a line of full-color, illustrated children’s novels for 6-10-year-old Black girls, 9-year-old author Cameron Alexa and her 15-year-old brother, Chase, realized there was a gap in education/entertainment.
Check them out in this Instagram video:
Together with their mother, the siblings set out to do research on Black icons in a myriad of industries from household name entertainers, athletes, and musicians to lesser-known inventors and a chef. They sought to create an avenue for kids to see themselves and a culture that resonates with them in the fundamentals they need.
About Black Culture Letter Tracing Alphabet Workbook is filled with activities and practice pages celebrating people, places, things, and words representative of Black culture.
Final Word
Speaking of black-owned businesses, Atlanta has a ton of them. Check out the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. 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.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
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.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Mid-morning on Wednesday, Nov. 6, the Georgia Capitol Building was evacuated, and multiple surrounding streets are closed as crews investigate a reported gas leak.
Atlanta Fire Rescue crews are currently monitoring air quality in the area, but so far, no gas readings have been detected, according to a department spokesperson.
Piedmont Avenue near Martin Luther King Jr. Drive remains closed, and Atlanta Gas Light is on-site working to shut off the gas.
How To Check Air Quality Near You
There are several ways to check the air quality near you, ranging from using apps to government websites or physical devices. Here’s a detailed guide on how you can monitor the air quality in your area:
1. Air Quality Monitoring Apps
- BreezoMeter: This app provides detailed real-time air quality maps, forecasts, and health recommendations. It also integrates pollen data for those with allergies.
- Plume Labs’ Air Report: This app offers real-time pollution levels and a 24-hour forecast for air quality. It also provides personalized health advice based on the current air quality.
- AirNow App: Developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this app provides real-time air quality information. It shows the Air Quality Index (AQI) for your location and provides alerts for poor air quality.
- AQICN App: This global air quality app shows real-time data from thousands of monitoring stations worldwide. It uses color-coded AQI levels, making it easy to understand the air quality at a glance.
What To Do During a Gas Leak
Gas leaks can be deadly situations to say the least. During a gas leak in the workplace, it’s crucial to prioritize safety by following these steps:
1. Evacuate Immediately
- Alert others and evacuate the area quickly and calmly. Do not delay by collecting personal belongings.
- Avoid using elevators, and instead use stairs to exit the building.
2. Avoid Igniting Sources
- Do not use electronic devices, including cell phones, as they can create sparks.
- Avoid lighting matches, smoking, or using open flames anywhere near the suspected leak.
3. Shut Off Electrical Equipment and Ventilation
- If safe to do so, turn off any electrical devices or equipment that may create sparks. This should only be done if you’re not directly exposed to the gas.
- Avoid turning on lights or fans near the leak.
4. Report the Leak to Authorities
- Contact emergency services by calling 911 once you are in a safe area.
- Notify local gas company personnel if they are not already aware.
- Provide detailed information about the leak location and any noticeable gas odors or symptoms.
5. Follow Emergency Procedures and Evacuation Plans
- Follow any emergency protocols outlined by your workplace, such as gathering at a designated assembly point.
- Await further instructions from emergency personnel and do not re-enter the building until it has been declared safe.
6. Monitor for Symptoms
- Be aware of potential symptoms of gas exposure, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Additional Considerations
- Workplace training is essential for gas leak response. It’s recommended that employees undergo regular safety training on gas leak procedures and emergency response.
These guidelines help ensure safety during a gas leak in the workplace and should be part of any emergency preparedness plan. For more information, consult resources from organizations like OSHA or the CDC, which provide in-depth guidelines on handling hazardous materials in the workplace.
This is a developing story. Stay with AtlantaFi.com for the latest.
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On Election Day, Tuesday morning, state and local officials responded to bomb threats reported at polling sites in Fulton County, Georgia.
The threats were deemed “non-credible,” according to officials, and polling locations in Georgia’s most populous county remain secure for Election Day.
Georgia Official Blames Russia for Bomb Threat Hoax
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said officials believe the bomb threats came from Russia.
“They’re up to mischief, it seems. They don’t want us to have a smooth, fair and accurate election, and if they can get us to fight among ourselves, they can count that as a victory,” Raffensperger said in a stateent. “That tells you a little bit about the Russians. They’re not our friends. Anyone that thinks they are hasn’t been reading the newspapers.”
Officials are concerned about voter intimidation in Georgia due to reports of activities that may intimidate or discourage voters from casting their ballots. In recent years, Georgia has seen a rise in reports of armed individuals and groups at or near polling locations, aggressive questioning of voters, and other tactics that could dissuade voters or make them feel unsafe. With Georgia often a key battleground in national elections, officials are particularly focused on preventing any attempts to interfere with the voting process.
Steps have been taken to increase law enforcement presence and ensure a secure, accessible voting environment. Additionally, nonpartisan groups and government agencies are educating the public about their voting rights to counter any intimidation tactics that may arise.
Voter Intimidation in Georgia: A History
Georgia, like much of the South, has a complex history of voter intimidation and suppression that dates back to the Reconstruction era following the Civil War.
Efforts to intimidate Black voters began as soon as African Americans gained the right to vote, with tactics ranging from threats of violence by groups like the Ku Klux Klan to discriminatory practices such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and grandfather clauses that effectively barred Black citizens from voting.
During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, Georgia saw protests and activism aimed at ending these practices.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was a significant victory, outlawing many discriminatory practices and requiring certain states, including Georgia, to receive federal approval before changing voting laws. However, voter suppression efforts continued in more subtle forms, such as gerrymandering, restrictive voter ID laws, and purging voter rolls.
In more recent years, Georgia has faced scrutiny over issues like long wait times at polling places in minority communities, stricter voter ID requirements, and alleged voter roll purges.
In the 2020 election cycle, reports of potential voter intimidation increased, with armed groups and individuals appearing at or near polling sites. This history, combined with ongoing reports of these issues, has led officials to stay vigilant against voter intimidation to ensure a safe and accessible voting environment.
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The RICO cast of defendant Jeffery Williams, aka rapper Young Thug came to an unceremonious ending Thursday, Oct. 31, in an Atlanta courtroom. The rapper was released from jail after two years late Thursday.
Young Thug pleaded “no contest” to gang and racketeering charges without a pre-negotiated sentence, ending the longest trial in Georgia history.
What Is Young Thug’s Prison Sentence?
Young Thug was sentenced to 40 years in prison that breaks down like this:
- The first five years were commuted to time served.
- 15 years of probation.
- 20 years in prison if probation is violated.
What Are the Terms of Young Thug’s Probation?
As terms of his plea deal, Young Thug must also:
- Stay away from metro Atlanta for 10 years.
- Refrain from using any illicit drugs.
- Avoid association with any gang paraphernalia.
- Speak against drugs/gang violence four times a year.
He is allowed however to hold benefit concerts for a good cause.
During sentencing, he apologized to his family and friends, saying, “I take full responsibility for my crimes, my charges.” He went on to say that he now understands how much his actions and words mean to the world and promises to be a better man.
Williams, 33, was arrested on May 9, 2022, during a raid in connection with a RICO case involving gang activity in Atlanta. The trial, from the get-go, was one of fanfare.
He faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.
Young Thug and his co-defendants, including rapper Gunna, were charged with multiple counts, primarily under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. The charges included conspiracy to participate in criminal gang activity, as well as various counts related to violent crimes, drug offenses, and other illegal activities. The prosecution alleged that they were part of the Young Slime Life (YSL) gang, which was involved in various criminal enterprises in Atlanta.
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