It’s the Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival!

Cheers Everyone!

Consistently the most anticipated culinary event in Atlanta during the height of tomato season, the Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival is always one of my favorite seasonal happenings in my hometown. Hosted by Georgia Organics, chefs and mixologists from across Georgia’s capital make inventive cocktails, delectable bites, and creative pairings all made with the summer’s beloved red fruit—tomatoes—grown by Georgia farmers. Taking place at the Westside Motor Lounge (725 Echo Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318) this Sunday, July 28, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Do yourself a favor and snag a ticket before they sell out here. See below for the official press release.

Be sure to follow me at @ATLfoodWriter for more food adventures.

See you soon!

Andrea Janise

------------

13TH ANNUAL ATTACK OF THE KILLER TOMATO FESTIVAL

DESCENDS UPON WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE THIS SUNDAY!

Hosted by Georgia Organics, longstanding food-fueled fundraiser celebrates local chefs, restaurants, and farmers during a one-day-only event complete with music, live entertainment, and more!

Tickets On Sale Now for Sunday, July 28, 2024, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival, hosted by Georgia Organics, is descending upon Westside Motor Lounge this Sunday, July 28, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The longstanding fundraising event will once again feature a curated lineup of the Southeast's most popular chefs and bartenders showcasing their culinary prowess with dishes and cocktails crafted from tomatoes grown by Georgia farmers. This year’s lineup includes The Deer and The Dove, Talat Market, La Semilla, Chai Pani, Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, and more, all serving an array of tomato-inspired dishes and cocktails, from savory to sweet. Guests will also be treated to live music, exciting live entertainment, and an auction boasting incredible items and experiences.

For more information or to purchase tickets to the 13th Annual Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival, visit www.georgiaorganics.org. General admission tickets are $100 per person, and VIP tickets are $250 per person. Westside Motor Lounge is located on the corner of Northside Drive and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway at 725 Echo Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram @Westside_Motor_Lounge.

🎥 Reel Talk: TWISTERS 🎥

Reviewed by L.K. Byron

The summer movie season is in full swing and the thriller, TWISTERS, is quickly approaching your radar! TWISTERS—some could say a follow up to the hit film TWISTER, released in 1996—is a worthy contender to earn your box office bucks.

After a brief introduction of a storm chasing team lead by Kate Cooper, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, the hunt is on for highly inclement weather and you might’ve guessed, TWISTERS. Without giving too much away, the team’s initial rush of adrenaline to tail a major tornado proves to be a highly risky decision that will change the course of their lives forever.

Five years later, due to the costly events suffered by her aforementioned storm chasing team, Kate found herself living a less adventurous and safer occupation as a meteorologist in New York City. That is until Javi, played by Anthony Ramos, her former chaser team member, walks back into her life determined to rejuvenate Kate’s passion for storm chasing with incentives and heartfelt compassion. Now, it’s decision time and Kate’s true love of twister chasing and thirst for redemption is winning her over. 

Kate, unable to turn herself away, joins Javi and his teammates to apply her top-notch knowledge of meteorology towards exploring, monitoring, and chasing tornadoes. Unfortunately, their newly formed team is not the only storm chasing team in the game. The additional competition team is captained by a seemingly brash storm chaser, named Tyler Owens, played by Glen Powell. Owens and his caravan of storm chasers deliver heavy doses of drama, conflict, and misunderstandings that bring about unforeseen events that send the storyline and plot into overdrive! TWISTERS not only fulfills the action, thrills, and humor departments, but accomplishes the goal of infusing numerous scenes with the catastrophic powers of nature that are hell bent on amassing destruction and loss of lives. TWISTERS is fun, entertaining, and does an admirable job of gripping you from start to finish.

Rated: PG – 13

Run Time: 1 hr. and 57 mins

Director: Lee Isaac Chung

 

Wild Heaven’s Second Annual Crab Trap & Tap this Saturday, July 13th!

 

Whaddup?!

I just got back from the Blue Ridge Mountains and have another weekend to look forward to already! There is no mystery that I am a seafood fanatic, and this goes especially for crab! While crab cakes are especially my thing, breaking down freshly steamed Maryland blue crabs is always memorable. Well it looks like one of Georgia’s favorite brewing companies, Wild Heaven, is bringing that experience back Low Country Boil-style, along with brews, cocktails, and live music to The Garden Club at their West End location (Wild Heaven West End, 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310) on Saturday, July 13th from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Called Wild Heaven’s Crab Trap & Tap, it’s the second annual “shell-ebration” and it’s all you can eat, so I will be there!

Click here for all the information, plus the official description straight from the source below. Oh! And here’s an important note: TICKETS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR DAY-OF, WE WILL BE CLOSING THE TICKET LINK ON THE MORNING OF THURSDAY, 7/11 (IF WE DON'T SELL OUT BEFORE THAT, SPACE IS LIMITED!)

See you there!

WILD HEAVEN BEER HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL CRAB TRAP & TAP NEXT WEEKEND

Summer Bash Will Feature Fresh Maryland Blue Crabs, a Low Country Boil, EDB Micheladas, Live Music and More.

All-You-Can-Eat Tickets Are On Sale Now!

Summer at Wild Heaven is not just for cracking cold beers; it’s also for cracking apart delicious, freshly steamed Maryland blue crabs. Next Saturday, July 13th, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Wild Heaven Beer is throwing an all-out summer bash in The Garden Club at West End. The second annual Crab Trap & Tap, a lively feast inspired by the time-honored Maryland tradition of gathering around a table covered in newspaper, armed with mallets and knives, and savoring the succulent, sweet meat of freshly steamed crabs. 

Not only will guests enjoy fresh steamed Maryland blue crabs flown in from Harbour House Crabs, but they will be treated to a Low Country Boil featuring an all-you-can-eat feast of shrimp, Pine St. Market sausage, corn, potatoes, and other fun salty and sweet summer treats. Groove to live tunes from Nero Simon & The Sunsetters, bringing the mellow vibes of sunsets, sand, and surf. With community tables for enjoying shareables, the garage doors will be open for indoor and outdoor revelry, and a cash bar ready to serve the perfect summer drinks, including the iconic Old Bay rimmed EDB-Micheladas, and the regular lineup of Wild Heaven beers. For more information or to purchase tickets to Wild Heaven Beer’s second annual Crab Trap and Tap for $69 plus fees, visit wildheavenbeer.com or call 404.254.2232. Tickets will not be available at the door day-of and the ticket link will close on the morning of Thursday, July 11th. Wild Heaven Beer West End is at 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. Stay connected on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beerwildheaven or on Instagram and Twitter at @beerwildheaven.   

WHAT: Wild Heaven Beer’s Crab Trap & Tap

WHEN: Saturday, July 13, 2024, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Wild Heaven West End 

1010 White St SW 

Atlanta, GA 30310

COST: $80-$150, plus taxes and fees

WEBSITE: wildheavenbeer.com

EVENT LINK: https://gardenclubatl.freshtix.com/events/wild-heaven-crab-trap--tap-2 

CONNECT: Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/beerwildheaven/ Instagram at  @beerwildheaven

📽 Reel Talk: A Quiet Place: Day One 📽

Review by L.K. Byron 

 A Quiet Place: Day One snuck into theatres with a strong cast lead by Lupita Nyong’o—who plays Sam, an ailing hospice patient—propels us through another addition of the Quiet Place series. Now, New York City is under attack by an alien legion that viciously attack and kill anything that gives off even the slightest decibel of sound.

The story sprouts its legs when Sam reluctantly joins a patient field trip only after given the promise of a trip to her favorite pizzeria in the city. Unfortunately, this trip places the group in the heart of the city when the aliens decide it’s time to wreak havoc and destruction of the human race. After chaos ensues, Sam finds herself on a solo journey along with only the companionship of her therapeutic animal, a nifty cat named Frodo, to fight for what’s left of a life that has already been unfairly cut short. For her, and the other humans lucky enough to have survived the initial alien invasion strike, silence is crucially golden; their lives depend on it.

During their trying attempts to stay alive and silent, Sam comes across Eric, a traumatized law student [Joseph Quinn], and is begrudgingly forced to expand her escape tandem to a party of three. They must immediately become each other’s savior to ensure the best chance of escaping the city with their lives, but that’s easier said than done; they are severely outnumbered by the forces of evil salivating at the chance for their demise.  

A Quiet Place aims to please with adequate doses of suspense, action, drama, and humor. If you’re looking to be entertained with those previously stated factors in mind, your box office bucks should prove to be well spent. Just hope your fellow moviegoers stay as silent as parts of this movie are for the true viewing experience; this is when Quiet is the most nail biting.

Run Time: 99 minutes

Director: Michael Sarnoski

Screenplay by: Michael Sarnoski

PG-13

It’s the 2024 Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Guide!

 

Let’s Make Some Dads Smile!

Once again, it’s on! 

As always, I did some digging and received some submissions of dope gifts that would make that special dad, husband, uncle, brother, or whoever else has done a commendable job raising someone grin ear to ear. Besides my two cents with some of the items listed below, I included the descriptions shared directly from the providers for precise information. From smell goods, to palate pleasers, clothing, amazing concerts at one of the nation’s elite music venues, the perfect show for hip-hop heads, and a few other items, here is my 2024 Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Guide. Enjoy!

Any Concert At The Eastern Is A Must!

I Say: Stellar music curators Zero Mile is bringing some serious heat to one of the most incredible concert venues in the nation, Atlanta’s The Eastern, this summer, starting tonight! I’m talking RenderHaus @ RenderATL feat. DJ Pee Wee (A.K.A. Anderson .Paak), Steel Pulse, Burning Spear, and The Lox to mention only a few! Get a dad some tickets and blow his mind!

They Say: The Eastern is a state-of- the art venue in the Dairies complex in the Reynoldstown neighborhood of Atlanta, located right off of the Atlanta Beltline. The venue boasts a multi-tiered floorplan which offers unrivaled sight lines, top of the line sound and lights, spacious floorplan, and rooftop which includes a covered performance space, bar, restaurant and open-air seating.. Full-service bars are conveniently placed around the venue maximizes flow, efficiency and patron experience. The venue has been designed with artists & patrons in mind, to provide the best live music experience possible.

The Shows I’m Going To:

RenderATL Presents RenderHaus @ RenderATL feat. DJ Pee Wee (A.K.A. Anderson .Paak)

DaniLeigh, D Smoke, KAMAIYAH, Coco & Breezy, DJ JMo

Friday, June 14, 2024 - 7:00 PM

Burning Spear featuring Kabaka Pyramid

Friday, June 21, 2024 - 8:00 PM

The Lox

Saturday, July 13, 2024 - 8:00 PM

Steel Pulse with Jesse Royal

Sunday, July 28, 2024 - 7:30 PM

Scofflaw Brewing Co. Host First-Ever Bourbon Battle

I Say: Just the sound of this event sounds awesome! This is the first Backyard Bourbon Battle brewing powerhouse Scofflaw has ever hosted, and with it being community driven and bridging the gap between spirits and beer, it’s gotta be a must for dads who imbibe. Tickets can be purchased here. 

They Say: Scofflaw Brewing Co. is thrilled to host their first-ever Bourbon Battle on Saturday, June 15th at their MacArthur Taproom. From 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, local community teams will go head-to-head in the ultimate whiskey barrel-picking challenge. 

Event goers have the opportunity to sample each team's Kentucky Bourbon and cast votes for their favorite barrel. The team with the most votes will claim the coveted Backyard Bourbon Battle Heavyweight Belt, legendary bragging rights, and win their very own custom bottle. 

Scofflaw’s very own Basement Bourbon will be available for purchase at the event. In addition to bourbon battle and tasting, there will be a variety of food options from local vendors available for purchase and live Bluegrass and Folk music from Atlanta’s very own, Clawdad. 

Tickets can be purchased here. Guests must be 21+ to participate in the bourbon tastings but families are welcome to come and enjoy all of the festivities the backyard has to offer, such as cornhole, bocce ball, basketball, and Foursquare. Rain or shine, the battle will be on! 

City Winery Atlanta and Ed Lover Presents:

“The Live Mix-Tape Band” on June 17th at 8pm!

I Say: I had the pleasure of interviewing hip-hop icon Ed Lover over some craft brews a few years ago, and it was a complete honor. His knowledge, experiences, and hilarious personality is unforgettable. Hearing his take on the history of rap fused with a live band at City Winery is ingenious! Go here for tickets!

They Say: Ed Lover Presents "The Live Mixtape Band" - A Nostalgic Journey Through 90's & 2000's Hip-Hop and R&B. Get ready for a musical blast from the past as the legendary Ed Lover takes you on a captivating journey through the golden era of hip-hop and R&B with his unique event, "Ed Lover Presents The Live Mixtape Band."

VarieTees Honors Hops Through Clothing!

I Say: If you know me, I am all about the threads, and the VarieTees clothing line is connecting two of my passions—beer and gear! Taking hop varieties (see what I did there?) like Simcoe, Cascade, and Mosaic to name a few, VarieTees is making everything from hats to sweatshirts honoring the beer industry’s most cherished flowers in fly fashion.  Show some love to the hops that please your palate the most and grab some pieces!

They Say: VarieTees is a Yakima Chief Hops brand focused on providing socially and environmentally conscious merchandise featuring artwork by a diverse group of illustrators, designers and makers. We seek to celebrate the industry's vibrant portfolio of hops through visual storytelling and collectable goods that are unique to each variety.

We have two new collections that will serve as staple VarieTees apparel: The Flagship Series and Harvest Collection.

Flagship Series: VarieTees® Flagship Series highlights favorite hop varieties Simcoe\, Mosaic, Citra and Cascade. Staple varieties in a classic style is sure to be a long time favorite in your wardrobe. Go here to get your gear today: https://varietees.com/collections/flagship-seriesnull

Harvest Collection: The HARVEST collection features custom embroidered cones capturing the unique characteristics of some of the most popular hop varieties including Simcoe, Mosaic, Citra and Cascade. Go here to get your gear today: https://varietees.com/collections/harvest-collections

Sweet Auburn Barbecue is Fired Up for Father’s Day!

I Say: A Wu-Tang Chili Sauce sauce created by Sweet Auburn Barbecue? I’m in!

They Say: Give Dad something he really wants this Father’s Day: high-quality barbecue and a side of making memories with friends and family. This Father’s Day, June 16th, Sweet Auburn Barbecue is gifting all fathers a bottle of Sweet Auburn’s Wu-Tang Chili Sauce to complement their at-home grilling.

This award-winning sauce from the Hsu family helps Dad take his grill master skills to the next level—perfect for chicken wings, shrimp, a dipping sauce for fries or dim sum and more. It doesn't end there, open all day for lunch and dinner, both locations will feature a brisket fried rice special alongside their extensive menu that seamlessly merges southern barbecue traditions with Asian cuisine. Sweet Auburn Barbecue is located in Poncey-Highland at 656 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 and in McDonough at 1828 Jonesboro Rd., McDonough, GA 30253. 

For more information, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @sweetauburnbbq. 

 

Make Father's Day Sweeter With Sugar Shane’s

I Say: If Pops has a sweet tooth, look no further! Sugar Shane’s is no joke!

They Say: Get ready to wow Dad with the sweetest Father's Day treats, courtesy of Sugar Shane’s Gourmet Bakery. The award-winning dessert brand that took the nation by storm with its ginormous and irresistibly decadent cookies, is serving not-to-miss specials just for dads at its four Atlanta locations from Thursday, June 13th until Sunday, June 16th, 2024. Show him just how much he’s loved with a Father’s Day Cookie Box that includes the Dashing Delta, Cookies N Cream, Walnut Chip, Betty White, Dark Knight and original Chocolate Chip all for $31.99. Not an Atlantan? Not to worry. Sugar Shane’s offers nationwide shipping at sugarshanes.com. Visit Sugar Shane’s Gourmet Bakery in Atlanta at Midtown (398 14th Street Atlanta, GA 30318), Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE N 145 Atlanta, GA 30308), Sandy Springs (1110 Hammond Drive Suite 30 Atlanta, GA 30328), and Kennesaw (1635 Old 41 Hwy Ste 107 in Kennesaw, GA 30152). Stay connected on Instagram at @sugar_shanes and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sugarshanesatl.

Savoir Faire’s Soul Café Eau De Parfum

I Say: Blended, bottled, and boxed by hand, Atlanta-based celebrated renaissance man Chris Classic's Savoir Faire fragrance line herehere is one of the most extraordinary in the industry boasting scent combinations that will have everyone wanting to get a whiff of Dad. Arguably the most popular selection—Soul Café—has notes ranging from tobacco, to blood orange, patchouli, private musk blend, amber wood, lavender, and even Arabic coffee to name a few. When it comes to his different selections, I honestly love ‘em all! Visit Classic’s site for his eyewear, haberdashery, jackets, bags, and other amazing products for both men and women as well. He’s a baaaad dude.

They Say: These fine fragrances are for men and women. Inspired by the diaspora, hand blended in Atlanta, they are created using quality ingredients.  The olfactory experience will vary uniquely from person to person. In other words, you won't be smellin' like everybody else. As with the previous unisex Savoir Faire fragrances, Soul Cafe opens rather strong. The dry down is beautifully complex and offers a multitude of options for the various wearers to exude. Savoir Faire is proudly a Black owned fragrance brand.

Smell Goods For Dad’s House By Pura!

I Say: Even though I’m an Air Sign, I can’t be the only loving great scents throughout my home. Get one—or many—of the diffusers and scents Pura has to offer and keep dad’s spot smelling phenomenal.

They Say: The Pura 4 Smart Fragrance Diffuser ($49.99) and scent selection are epic gifts that any dad will appreciate. Pura’s diffuser and accompanying smart app allows Dad to customize the fragrance experience to his liking, right from his smartphone. With a wide variety of premium fragrances from Kenneth Cole’s Go Fig-ure to Guy Fox’s Soho to Caswell-Massey’s Lake, Pura has a scent to suit every Dad’s preference. Give the gift of fine fragrance from Pura this year, perfect for any special father in your life! In Atlanta, Pura is available at Ponce City Market, The Container Store, and Dillard's.

Pura 4 Smart Fragrance Diffuser $49.99

Kenneth Cole’s Go Fig-ure $19.99

Guy Fox’s Soho $13.59

Caswell-Massey’s Lake $15.99

 

Miami’s Museum of Graffiti's 'Sneaker Stories' exhibit is in Atlanta this weekend!

 

Cheers Everyone!

Okay, now you know how much I love sneakers judging by my Instagram posts and the latest event I co-hosted, Ale Max Day 2024. Well now coming to my beloved city of ATL is the Museum of Graffiti’s “Sneaker Stories” straight from Miami. This special event will be hosted at Ponce City Market for one weekend only, May 31 – June 2, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. And guess what? It’s free!

The official information is below. See you there, sneaker fiends!

 -----

Miami’s Acclaimed Museum of Graffiti Pops Up in Atlanta, May 31-June 2

World’s first museum dedicated to graffiti brings limited-time, free sneaker exhibition to Ponce City Market

The Miami-based Museum of Graffiti proudly announces its latest traveling exhibition, "Sneaker Stories" presented by Modelo, will come to Atlanta’s Ponce City Market for one weekend only, May 31 – June 2, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. This free experience will explore the historical ties and evolving relationship between graffiti art and sneaker culture through informative displays featuring rare sneakers and their corresponding art inspiration.

A first-of-its-kind contemporary art museum, Museum of Graffiti exhibits, educates and celebrates the thousands of graffiti artists who have transformed walls in public spaces into vibrant masterpieces. With the “Sneaker Stories” pop-up, the Museum of Graffiti will bring its renowned unorthodox approach to urban art education to Atlanta. Presented as a faux sneaker store, this immersive museum experience will highlight the many seminal crossover collaborations between graffiti artists and global commercial brands like Nike, Adidas and Reebok. Guests will be taken on a 20-year journey of collaboration that has seen sneakers transcend their original purpose to become integral to the fabric of urban culture and art. The exhibition will feature a selection of limited-edition sneakers displayed alongside their original artworks by artists including Futura, Cey Adams, Eric Haze, Claw Money and Faust, who have been tapped to create highly converted footwear that can sell on the secondary market for upwards of $20,000.

"Through 'Sneaker Stories,' we aim to celebrate the artists from the global graffiti art movement who have transitioned from the streets to appear inside the biggest companies in America, like Nike, Reebok and Adidas, and influenced countless others along the way," says Alan Ket, co-founder of the Museum of Graffiti. "Thanks to our partnership with with Modelo, we’re able to bring this unique cultural exploration to Atlanta, inviting the community to uncover the stories behind the art and the artists who have routinely been stigmatized due to the negative connotations surrounding spray paint."

Inside the pop-up, which will be located next to Nike at Ponce City Market, guests can also expect to find Museum of Graffiti’s world-class gift shop, packed with limited edition collectibles, rare books and apparel. At the complimentary sneaker customization bar, courtesy of Modelo, each pop-up visitor can also become a designer with colorful new laces, charms and buckle plates to personalize their own sneakers.

“Modelo can’t wait to kick off this ‘Sneaker Stories’ exhibition alongside the Museum of Graffiti,” said Rene Ramos, senior vice president, brand activation, Constellation Brands. “The relationship and inspiration the sneaker world and the graffiti artform have with each other truly embodies the grit and tenacity Modelo is all about, so it’s exciting to see that come to life in this exhibit.”

A panel discussion entitled “Fighting Spirit Stories” with Cey Adams, moderated by Atlanta’s own Dr. Dax, will take place on Saturday, June 1 at 6:30 p.m., followed by a limited edition print release and signing. Seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis.

About the Museum of Graffiti

The Museum of Graffiti, founded in 2019 in Miami, Florida, is dedicated to exhibiting, preserving and elevating the history and evolution of graffiti art. By highlighting the work of prominent graffiti artists, both local and international, each exhibition explores the cultural and social significance of this art form. The museum boasts a significant collection of rare original paintings, photos, sculptures, ephemera, works on paper and designs that come together to tell the story of how this renegade artform has captivated youth and adults for over fifty years. The Museum has recently become widely recognized for its robust educational programs, pop-ups, workshops and events aimed at promoting graffiti art and its positive impact on communities. For more information, please visit museumofgraffiti.com and follow the brand on social media at @museumofgraffiti.

 

UniverSoul Circus is now in ATL!

Cheers Everyone!

I have always enjoyed the UniverSoul Circus in ATL over the years, and now they are celebrating 30 years! My brother Jabari worked with them for a while before moving on to Art, Beats and Lyrics, and when he invited me over a decade ago, I was hooked! So whether it’s date night or taking the family out, this is an event not to be missed! Here is the info below straight from the source to get tickets and witness jaw-dropping talent from five different continents. They are here through Sunday, May 26, so get your tickets while you can.

Cheers!

----------------------

ATLANTIC STATION WELCOMES 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS
Tent Raising in Pinnacle Lot This Week
Third Stop in Atlanta Tour Features Superstars From Five Continents, Opens Friday, May 17

 
WHO:                  
Atlantic Station Welcomes UniverSoul Circus
 
WHAT:                 
UniverSoul Circus celebrates 30th anniversary in the Big Top with breathtaking acrobatics, thrilling stunts and cultural performances
 
WHERE:               
Atlantic Station | Pinnacle Lot | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363 
 
WHEN:                 
Friday, May 17 through Sunday, May 26, 2024 | Show times vary
 
TICKETS:              
Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster and at the onsite ticket office.                
Visit universoulcircus.com for more info, ticket prices, show times, and schedules.
Follow UniverSoul on Facebook @UniverSoulcircus, Twitter @UniverSoulCirc, and Instagram @UniverSoulCircus.

ATLANTA: Atlantic Station is pleased to welcome the 30^th Anniversary of UniverSoul Circus this month. Featuring superstars from five continents, all backed by the infectious beat of World Music, including sounds and dance styles spanning the African diaspora, UniverSoul Circus reimagined itself this year with over a dozen culturally diverse performances. UniverSoul features never-before-seen acts from Ethiopia, the Dominican Republic, and Mongolia and a never-before-seen eighteen-person flying trapeze act from China. In a presentation celebrating “Circus Cousins from around the World,” UniverSoul Circus is set to begin for the first time at Atlantic Station Friday, May 17. 
 
"Atlantic Station serves as a bustling cultural epicenter for numerous residents of Atlanta, and we are thrilled to bring the unique experience of UniverSoul to all its visitors,” said Cedric Walker, UniverSoul Circus Founder & CEO.
 
Presented in a brand-new custom purple Big Top imported from Italy, the Big Top is 157 feet wide and 330 feet long, the size of a football field. It is enhanced with advanced state-of-the-art lighting and a sound system that moves and grooves as if it were the show itself. Atlantans will be able to see the tent being raised this week from the connector!
 
"Bringing UniverSoul Circus to Atlantic Station is not just about entertainment; it's about celebrating cultural diversity, unity, and the joy of live performance,” said Starr Cumming, Southeast Retail Director for Hines. “As we continue to seek exciting and enriching experiences to bring to our neighborhood, we are thrilled to welcome UniverSoul Circus for the first time ever. This landmark event promises interactive entertainment and electrifying performances, adding a new dimension to our array of community offerings.”
 
Guests heading to UniverSoul Circus can experience two hours of complimentary parking in Atlantic Station’s parking deck. Alternatively, ticket holders can take MARTA to the Arts Center station and ride the free Atlantic Station shuttle to the event. They will also have easy access to more than 20 restaurants and bars in the 

The Georgia Craft Brewers Festival is here Saturday!

 

Largest Gathering of Georgia’s Craft Brewers to be held in Atlanta!

Event to bring fifty of the States’ independent craft breweries to West Midtown

Once again, it’s on!

The biggest event featuring the most craft brewers in Georgia—the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival—is coming up the weekend, Saturday, May 18th, from 1-5pm (with VIP entry at 12pm) at Westside Paper in Atlanta! I love this event and strongly recommend that you pull up and meet me there! Here is all the information below including where to get tickets straight from the source.

See you there!

-----------------------

Mark your calendars for a celebration of Georgia’s vibrant craft beer scene at the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival!

Held on Saturday, May 18th, from 1-5pm (with VIP entry at 12pm) at Westside Paper in Atlanta, the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival is the ultimate gathering of Georgia’s independent craft breweries. This annual event offers attendees the opportunity to sample an impressive selection of beers from breweries across the state, all under one roof.

“As the largest gathering of Georgia’s independent craft breweries, the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival is a testament to the creativity and innovation thriving in our local beer community,” said Joseph Cortes, Executive Director. “Not only is it a fantastic opportunity to discover new brews and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts, but it’s also a chance to support the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild and our efforts to foster a thriving craft beer industry.”

In addition to showcasing Georgia’s finest craft beers, the festival will also support Giving Kitchen, a charitable organization providing emergency assistance for food service workers. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to this worthy cause, further reinforcing the festival’s commitment to community support and collaboration.

“We’re proud to partner with Giving Kitchen and contribute to their mission of supporting our hardworking food service industry professionals,” added Cortes. “By attending the Georgia Craft Brewers Festival, attendees not only enjoy great beer but also make a positive impact in our local community.”

Don’t miss out on the “Official Festival of Georgia Craft Beer”! Join us for an unforgettable day of beer tasting, DJ Kwasi spinning funky beats, delicious food, and community spirit.

Event Details:

·       Date: Saturday, May 18th  

·       Time: 1:00pm - 5:00pm (VIP entry at 12:00pm)

·       Location: Westside Paper, Atlanta, Georgia

·       Tickets: Available for purchase at www.georgiacraftbrewersfestival.com

·       Website: www.georgiacraftbrewersfestival.com

 

Get ready for 404 Day!

Peace Y’all!

Being a proud rep of Atlanta for more than 30 years, it’s time celebrate another festive 404 Day! This time, there is a fundraising element thanks to my homies at Monday Night Brewing and Butter.ATL doing The 404 Fund! Of course, 404 is the original area code for this great city (we’ve got like 80 now!) and we all plan on kicking at Monday Night’s Garage this Thursday, from 2pm to 6pm. Make sure to note that ideally at 4:04, there will be an official toast and presentation. Feel free to RSVP here.

Pictured above is the day-drinkin’-friendly 404 Atlanta Lager weighing in at 4.04%, brewed by my boy (and ALE MAX DAY collaborator) Peter Kiley. It will be available throughout the day and beyond.

There is some more info below.  

See you there!

-------------------

ATLiens gear up for 404 Day! — a celebration of Atlanta culture that takes places every April 4 (4.04) and named for its OG area code (in case you didn’t know J).

Butter.ATL Founder Brandon Butler and Monday Night Brewing Brewmaster Peter Kiley have announced the launch of The 404 Fund – a donor-advised fund created in partnership with Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta. Guided by an advisory board made up of local community and civic leaders, The 404 Fund has a mission to support the city of Atlanta through scholarships and grants, youth education and employment initiatives, housing and food insecurity services, and mental health programs.

In tandem with this, Monday Night Brewing has launched 404 Atlanta Lager - of which 4.04% of proceeds will go toward The 404 Fund. Made in Atlanta and for Atlanta, this easy-drinking beer is sure to be ATL's go-to brew for the spring, summer and beyond.

Monday Night Garage will be part of a block party event on 404 Day (April 4), where proceeds will go towards The 404 Fund. A special scholarship check presentation will take place during the celebration at 4:04 p.m.

 Here is more information about The 404 Fund, MNB's 404 Atlanta Lager, and the way to support The 404 Fund can be found HERE.

 

The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is a stunner!

Cheers Everyone!

Now as many of you know, I review cars for my ongoing series with the prestigious The Atlanta Voice publication, Street Lines, and every once in a while I share an automobile that simply wows me on this website. Well, here is my latest review of the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. Like I said, it's a stunner so I had to share it. Here you go!

Street Lines: 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

Experiencing an automobile from Alfa Romeo was highly anticipated, and this 2024 Alpha Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio did not disappoint.

For those seeking a sedan that provides luxury, power, and captivation, this vehicle flaunting the highly recommended “Verde Montreal” tri-coat exterior paint checked all the boxes. More outdoor eye candy includes the 19-inch wheels with Romeo’s signature five-hole spokes and Pirelli performance tires; Brembo brakes; dual mode quad exhaust; front and rear fascias; a carbon fiber spoiler; optional carbon fiber roof; and attractive LED lighting package. Another prominent standout alongside the metallic green body, is the shamrock emblem that tastefully adorns the automobile’s upper side. How about a little history? The signature, four-leaf “quadrifoglio” signifies it’s a high-powered vehicle which dates back to 1923 when Alfa Romeo’s race car driver Ugo Sivocci had a hand-painted green four-leaf clover “Quadrifoglio” on his vehicle for luck during the Targa Florio race. Well, Sivocci was victorious, so that historic good-luck charm is honored to this day in this select trim.

What’s under the hood perfectly pairs with Giulia’s race-driven appearance. The drive is exhilarating thanks to the 2.9-liter, V6 twin turbo engine pushing 505 horsepower, a top speed of 191 mph, and 8-speed automatic transition, operated by rear-wheel drive. And even with all this power, the ride felt light and nimble, thanks largely to the active suspension.  

Inside, the only thing missing is a pair of racing gloves to complement the paddle shifters mounted on the column; carbon fiber drive shaft and steering wheel; leather appointments throughout the cockpit; and wireless charging pad. Entertainment leaves virtually nothing to be desired as well, with the Apple CarPlay/Android connectivity, vibrant 12.3-inch TFT (thin film transistor) color display, 8.8-inch radio screen, and eargasmic 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Be sure to visit Alfa Romeo’s website to learn about all of this car’s safety features and optional packages, including the Quadrifoglio RWD-Package 25P featuring a plethora of driver-assist applications, plus other physical appointments.

Ultimately, ever since Sivocci’s conquering of the checkered flag back in 1923, the Quadrifoglio is still a winner and one of our top cars of 2024.

Price: $86,755 MSRP (Including optional equipment)

Fuel Economy: 17 city/25 highway/20 combined

For more information, visit Alfaromeousa.com.

Photos courtesy of Alfa Romeo.

 

ALE MAX Returns to Fuse Craft Beer & Sneaker Cultures!

Yup!

It's that time again! Ale Max Day, the event put on by my boy Craig and I, will be in its second year, and it's going to be an even crazier one set for Monday Night Brewing's Garage on March 22, and then the next day in Nashville, TN, at Bearded Iris's Sylvan Supply location on March 23rd! Here is all the info below. Stay tuned for more updates on my Instagram and @ALEMAX.OFFICIAL. Here is the official press release below. Let's get it!

This is the dope Ale Max can we are doing for Monday Night Brewing!

ALE MAX Returns to Fuse Craft Beer & Sneaker Cultures

Second annual ALE MAX joins forces with Nashville hometown favorite,
Bearded Iris Brewing Co. to launch limited-edition, sneaker-inspired IPA 

Last March, Atlanta-based marketing veteran Craig Stroud and craft beer aficionado Ale Sharpton joined forces to launch the perfect mashup experience with ALE MAX – a series of events timed around Nike Air Max Day (March 26) aimed to deliver a beautifully brewed fusion of craft beer, sneaker culture, and community engagement. This year, ALE MAX is collaborating with Southeastern craft beer heavyweights Bearded Iris Brewing (Nashville, Tenn.) and Monday Night Brewing (Atlanta, Ga.) to launch a limited-edition brew, ALE MAX 1, alongside events and activations that will excite sneaker and beer lovers alike.  

“Craft beer and sneaker cultures have a long history of subtly crossing paths, but typically not in a very intentional way,” said Stroud about the inception of ALE MAX. “While there have been many individual beer and sneaker launches and experiences, we haven’t come across any that simultaneously tap into the pulse of both. Creating ALE MAX seemed like the perfect way to bring these two passionate, opinionated, and niche communities together.”

ALE MAX Day: A Celebration of Air and Ale (FREE to the public):
Beer lovers and sneakerheads are invited to sport their Air Max and cheers to ALE MAX

Monday Night Garage on Friday, March 22 (7 to 11 pm)
Address: 933 Lee St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

This is the dope Ale Max can we are doing for Bearded Iris Brewing!

Bearded Iris, Sylvan Supply on Saturday, March 23 (4 to 8 pm)
Address: 101 Charlotte Ave Suite 40, Nashville, TN 37209

Bearded Iris Brewing will be presenting flavor-forward interpretations of arguably the most popular beer style in America, the hazy IPA. This limited-edition beer will be inspired by the iconic AIR MAX 1, a sneaker that has left an indelible mark on the shoe world through innovation, style, and fandom since its debut in 1987. This collaboration aims to unite beer advocates with local sneaker enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled sensory experience that fosters community and culture. Attendees can anticipate sneaker showcases, discussions, and the chance to connect with like-minded enthusiasts while sampling ALE MAX 1, a Max IPA at 7.891% will be released in limited cans and draft.

“We came together to design an IPA that pairs old school traditions with new ideas to celebrate Ale Max Day,” said Head Brewer Brandon Tarr. “We are excited to be part of this collaboration that lifts up both sneaker and hop heads alike. The resulting beer is a testament to what a great collaboration can be, different from what anyone would have done on their own, and the result is so much better for it."

###

ABOUT BEARDED IRIS:

Bearded Iris proudly hails from Nashville, TN, where Paul Vaughn and Kavon Togrye, two Murfreesboro natives and longtime friends, opened its doors in 2016 with the help of co-founders Matt Miller, Anna Togrye, and Chanda Grubbs, and now has two Nashville taprooms in Germantown and Sylvan Supply. Although frequently recognized for hop-focused beers, Bearded Iris strives to deliver unparalleled freshness and drinkability with every pint, no matter the style, to make ultra-high-quality products highly accessible. This characteristic attention to others and desire to do things a bit differently remains a hallmark of the Bearded Iris brand. Since its founding, Bearded Iris has been named one of the top five best new breweries in America by USA Today and garnered accolades from Men’s Journal, Craft Beer & Brewing, Thrillist, Punch, Paste Magazine, and BeerAdvocate, among others. Discover more at beardedirisbrewing.com or @beardedirisbrewing on Instagram.

ABOUT MONDAY NIGHT BREWING:

Founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2013 by Jonathan Baker, Joel Iverson and Jeff Heck, Monday Night Brewing exists to deepen relationships over some of the best beer in the country – and the world. With brewing operations under the direction of Brewmaster Peter Kiley, Monday Night Brewing offers a wide selection of year-round, seasonal and limited-edition beers and sours that have earned praise by amateur drinkers and established beer critics alike. With quality, craftsmanship and connection at the forefront of its mission, Monday Night Brewing has taken home awards from some of the most prestigious national and international beer competitions, including The World Beer Cup, the Great American Beer Festival, and the US Open Beer Championship, among others.

Monday Night has soon-to-be six taprooms across the Southeast, including: Monday Night Brewing – West Midtown and The Garage in Atlanta, Ga.; Monday Night Social Club in Birmingham, Ala.; Monday Night Garden Co. in Charlotte, N.C.; Monday Night Preservation Co. in Nashville, Tenn.; Knoxville, Tenn. (coming soon). Learn more at www.mondaynightbrewing.com.

ABOUT ALE MAX:

ALE MAX is a multi-sensorial experience at the center of craft beer and sneaker cultures, leveraging their inherent connectivity to power communities, local and global. Creator/Founder Craig E. Stroud II brings over 25 years of expertise consulting on brand & campaign development, strategy and design for some of the world's most recognizable brands (The Coca-Cola Co., Ford Motor Co., Olympics, HP, McDonald’s, P&G, General Mills and more). For the latest on ALE MAX experiences follow @ALEMAX.OFFICIAL and @ALEMAXDAY.