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Tag: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

  • ‘It will surprise the world’: The return of Downtown Atlanta

    A view of some of the construction in downtown Atlanta on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025.
    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
    Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (above) poses for a photo on one of the outdoor spaces at The Mitchell, one of downtown Atlanta’s newest apartment buildings. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    There’s a lot going on downtown these days.

    Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens stepped out onto a balcony at The Mitchell, one of the newest downtown apartment buildings, and took a look around at all that has taken place and continues to take place. Located across Centennial Olympic Park Drive from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, The Mitchell can be seen as the perfect example of what should be expected from downtown living going forward. Only a few feet away, Hotel Phoenix is still undergoing renovations, and just a few more feet away is COSM, a mixed-use entertainment venue located within Centennial Yards, which is also getting the construction treatment. 

    Dickens, currently two weeks away from a second election night and a potential second term as his hometown city’s mayor, likes what he sees. The mayor says the growth of the city of Atlanta can directly be connected to what its downtown looks and feels like.

    “I’m excited about downtown. Full stop,” said Dickens. “I want to see downtown come back and be better than ever before. I want to have people living here, working here, and entertained here. Just gathering downtown.” 

    “Over the next two years, you’re going to see it all come together,” said Dickens (right) of the downtown projects taking place.
    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    One of the latest additions to the downtown scenery, The Mitchell, is a 304-unit, 300,000-square-foot, 19-story residential project. The building is part of the billion-dollar revitalization of what was once called ‘The Gulch,” and is now part of one of the country’s most ambitious urban renewal projects. With less than a year before thousands of visitors come to downtown Atlanta for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguably the most popular sporting event on the planet, everything looks a lot different from the last time there was a global sporting event in downtown Atlanta. 

    “Cities across America have been struggling because downtowns are struggling, and Atlanta has been finding a way to bring back downtown,” Dickens said. “We’re doing it with Centennial Yards, South Downtown, and the area around Underground and Five Points. Over the next two years, you’re going to see it all come together.”

    Dickens attended the Atlanta Hawks season opener on Wednesday night. Games like these are what he described as reasons Atlanta’s downtown will continue to be a desired destination for the city’s residents and visitors. Photo by Dionnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    The landscape of downtown Atlanta looks nothing like it did several decades ago, or even last year. On MLK, Jr. Drive, which was once full of Baptist and A.M.E. churches, now has towering apartment buildings popping out of the ground. The man behind the rooftops on The Mitchell and COSM, Evolve Contractors, a Black-owned commercial roofing and construction company, is Channing Baker, and he believes the timing couldn’t be better for all involved in the return of downtown.

    “It feels incredible. It’s the best timing because of the opportunities that Atlanta has provided,” Baker, owner of Evolve Contractors, said. “So far, the feedback has been that we have outperformed expectations.” 

    Baker told The Atlanta Voice that the rooftop on COSM is “about 90% completed.” 

    And that’s good because, along with the FIFA World Cup, next year will be the 30th anniversary of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, which took place in Atlanta and several metro Atlanta counties, including Clayton, Hall, and Rockdale counties. The world came to see Atlanta as much more than a sleepy southern city, and the World Cup will further elevate the city’s international reputation alongside the busiest airport in the country, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. 

    Atlanta Fire Department Station 1 Assistant Fire Chief Dwayne Johnson (left) gives Dickens a tour of the station. Fire Station 1 is centrally located in the midst of all the change taking place downtown. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    On “Downtown Day”, Wednesday, Oct. 22, Dickens toured several sites, including Atlanta Fire Department Station 1, which serves downtown, including Castleberry Hill, and local businesses such as Wild Leap, a restaurant underneath the Steele Bridge. There, Dickens shook hands and held conversations with patrons. There are so many things to do downtown, including grabbing a meal before the Atlanta Hawks season opener against the visiting Toronto Raptors across the street at State Farm Arena. 

    Fire Station 1 is centrally located in the midst of all the change taking place downtown. Atlanta Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief for Station 1, Dwayne Johnson, said the growth means a lot to the city and its citizens, but it also means there is more of downtown to serve.

    “There’s growth everywhere, and from a fire department perspective, that means we have our job cut out for us,” Johnson said. “With growth comes growth.”

    Dickens welcomes the growth.

    City of Atlanta Chief Communications Officer Allison Fouche’ wears a “I’m Downtown” sticker in honor of “Downtown Day.” Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    “I want this downtown to be one of the marquee downtowns in our nation,” said Dickens, who attended the Hawks game and received a loud ovation from the capacity crowd when he was shown on the big overhead screen. “I want it to be one of the top 10 downtowns in America that you can come to and get everything you need from a great home to a fantastic night on the town, and you can also work down here with the jobs, technology companies, and small businesses. So, I want it to work for everybody.” 

    Asked how far away this ambitious goal for downtown was from happening, Dickens said, “We are probably seven months from when people really see it, and about 24 months from when it’s like when everything will be done. I think we’re right on time with the revitalization.” 

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Falcons will need repeat performance from secondary to beat Niners on Monday night

    The Atlanta Falcons defeated the Buffalo Bills, 24-14, on Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in front of more than 70,000 fans. Atlanta last hosted Buffalo on October 1, 2017, and the Falcons lost that game. After Monday’s game, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris called the victory “a big-time team win” and was “well-fought by the guys.”

    Currently on a two-game win streak, the Falcons will have to travel to the West Coast in order to extend that streak of success. Up next: the San Francisco 49ers.

    The 49ers are tied at the top spot in the NFC West at 4-2, tied with the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks, who each have the same overall record. The Falcons and 49ers have something in common: they both have lost to Tampa Bay. The 49ers are coming into the Sunday Night Football matchup with the Falcons following a 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. To ref 

    During the first half of the victory over Buffalo, the Falcons’ defense sacked Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen twice. The Falcons’ front four kept pressure on Allen the entire game, and several of his pass attempts were thrown under duress. Falcons defensive back Dee Alford intercepted an Allen pass, one of the quarterback’s two interceptions. 

    The Falcons’ defensive front line gets all the praise a day after the smoke has cleared. Still, the secondary’s play allowed Ruke Orhorhoro, David Onyemata, and James Pearce, Jr. to help hold Allen to just 42 rushing yards to go along with his underwhelming passing night (15-26 for 180 yards and two touchdowns). According to Morris, the return of veteran corner A.J. Terrell, Jr. was also an assist.

    “AJ coming back this week was awesome,” Morris said after the game. “He’s one of our leaders in the back end. “We had a couple of penalties down the field, but those things will happen when you’re fighting throughout the play.”

    Morris said, along with Terrell and Alford, veteran corner Mike Hughes was among the players who made “big plays” during the game.

    “I really like how those guys went out there and fought. I think they all made big plays at different times throughout the game against one of the best quarterbacks in the National Football League, if not the best,” Morris said. 

    Falcons quarterback Michael Penix, Jr., now nine starts into his NFL career, said he wanted to credit the defense for securing the victory. When asked about the play of the secondary, Penix, Jr. said the play was “really good!”

    “Midway through the week, I heard [coach] say the defense was going to play a lot of man, and they did that, and those guys were up for the challenge,” said Penix (20-32 for 250 yards and a touchdown). “They played great football and allowed our defensive line to get sacks and stuff like that because Josh [Allen] had to hold the ball whenever people weren’t open down the field.”

    “We definitely couldn’t have won that game without what they did on that side of the ball,” Penix said.

    49ers quarterback Mac Jones was intercepted twice during his team’s loss to Tampa last week. The Falcons’ secondary has intercepted passes during all of their victories this season.

    Atlanta will need Penix, Robinson, the defensive line, and smart coaching decisions to win the game at San Francisco on Sunday night. They will also need the secondary to be as stellar, if not better, than it was on Monday night against the Bills. 

    “It was a big-time team win,” Morris said.

    Donnell Suggs

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  • FIFA Hospitality Provider Previews World Cup 2026 Offerings 

    Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

    On Location is the official hospitality provider for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the luxury hospitality brand visited Atlanta on Saturday for a sneak peek of what fans can expect when the biggest sporting event in the world makes its way to the city next summer.

    What is usually just a normal pick-up soccer match for the Rush Union Youth League turned into an immersive experience with a sideline match viewing area, light bites, drinks, and an appearance from Grammy Award-winning artist Ciara.

    Grammy Award-winning artist Ciara. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

    It’s just a small preview of what On Location plans to offer during Atlanta’s eight matches, including a semifinal match. Their goal is to provide an elevated experience outside of just buying a general ticket.

    Jennifer Ogden-Reese, the chief marketing officer for On Location, said they’re focused on infusing the local community into the experience. 

    “It’s going to be local entertainment, local food, and beverages. We’re really trying to integrate every one of the host cities into the hospitality experience and make it very special,” Ogden-Reese said. “And then we have all kinds of different offerings for folks depending on what they want to experience.”

    Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

    On Location will offer seven hospitality offerings including private suites, pitch-side lounge, VIP, trophy lounge, champions club, the FIFA pavilion, and the platinum access program. Fans will be able to buy hospitality package bundles that include those looking to attend single-game matches, every match at a venue such as the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, or every match for a specific team. Each offering features different amenities, with prices ranging from $1,400 to over $3,000.

    “It’s really about bringing people closer, giving them more access, more convenience, and more of an engaging experience they would get from just a ticket only,” Ogden-Reese said. “I think it’s really going to be both the kind of traditional hospitality elements, but also really those extra special moments where you have unique experiences that you’re not going to be able to get anywhere else, like being on the pitch and being able to engage with some special legends in the sport.”

    Laura Nwogu

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  • ‘Just pick up a book’: Falcons Bijan Robinson hosts book fair at The Benz for thousands of area students

    Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    According to data from the Georgia Council on Literacy, third and fourth-grade reading levels within the state are below 70%, with 68% of fourth-graders and 62% of third-graders not reading at a proficient level. Access to reading materials, during the school year and during the multiple holiday breaks and summers, can help raise those levels. 

    Books as far as the eye could see were on display on Tuesday morning as the Bijan Reads book fair took place on the Mercedes-Benz Stadium playing surface. An initiative from the Bijan Robinson Foundation, Bijan Reads is attempting to make a positive impact on reading through fun events like the book fair taking place on Tuesday.

    Robinson, who admitted that he had issues with enjoying reading as a kid, said he was looking forward to hearing the kids’ stories about what they enjoy about reading. A native of Tuscon, Arizona, he told The Atlanta Voice that one day he realized he shouldn’t care what anyone else thought about how he reads, he just wanted to start doing it more.

    “I knew I was trying to better myself and I didn’t care who judged me,” Robinson, dressed in a black “Bijan Reads” t-shirt and matching sweats, said during a press gathering before the book fair began. 

    Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    His advice to a kid struggling with reading is simple: “Just pick up a book,” he said. “Just pick up a hardcover book, or any book. You have to start somewhere.” 

    Students from area elementary schools such as Boyd, Kimberly, Perkerson, Continental Colony, Garden Hills, Tuskegee Airmen Global Academy, Toomer, and Brandon, were jumping off of school buses and heading into Mercedes-Benz Stadium to hear Robinson talk about the importance of reading. 

    Robinson said the event was life-changing for him and that he hopes it changes the lives of the kids who were attending. 

    “I have such a big heart for kids,” he said. “I believe God put me on this Earth to inspire kids.” 

    Copies of “Be You” by Peter H. Reynolds were distributed to the kids. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    Along with sponsors like Scholastic, Atlanta Public Schools, the Alliance Theater, and the Rollins Center for Language & Learning, the Bijan Reads book fair allowed the elementary school students to get out of the classroom for a few hours and head downtown to hear from one of the city’s most popular professional athletes. 

    Through three games this season, Robinson has rushed for 239 yards on 47 carries and has 14 receptions for 164 yards and a touchdown. The Falcons, 1-2 this season, will host the Washington Commanders on Sunday afternoon. The stands will be packed for the second home game of the season, but on Tuesday, the stands were packed with students waiting to get bags filled with books. 

    Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    Dozens of volunteers, also wearing Bijan Reads t-shirts, lime green ones to better be seen for assistance amongst the thousands of kids and teachers, were packing clear bags with Clifford the Big Red Dog books, books from the Captain Underpants series, and copies of “Be You” by Peter H. Reynolds. The book fair bags will also include pencils, pens, stickers, and copies of Bijan Reads literacy guide. 

    “It changed my life,” said Robinson of reading. “This moment is bigger than everything.”

    Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

     

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Atlanta Honors 9/11 Victims in Mercedes-Benz Stadium Stair Climb

    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    More than 500 veterans, first responders, and community members climbed 2,071 steps at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday morning to honor the 2,977 people killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

    The second annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, organized by Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, brought participants together to ascend 110 stories through the stadium stands, symbolizing the height of the Twin Towers.

    “We will never forget,” said Lorenzo Suarez, managing director of the Master’s in Business for Veterans program at Goizueta Business School and the event’s organizer. “Even though it’s been 24 years, we will never forget, and it’s important to bring everyone together.”

    The event drew a diverse crowd that included Atlanta police officers, firefighters, ROTC cadets, and civilians from across the metro area.

    Atlanta Police Assistant Chief Carven Tyus, who was an investigator assigned to the Special Victims Unit on Sept. 11, 2001, spoke during the opening ceremony at the stadium before the run, citing that he felt compelled to participate in the memorial climb.

    “I was at work when every television station went to what was happening with the Twin Towers,” said Tyus, who has served 32 years with the Atlanta Police Department. “It just gave us pause. It changed the way America looked at security.”

    The climb honored the 343 firefighters and paramedics and 72 law enforcement officers who died responding to the attacks, as well as all victims of the terrorist strikes in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.

    Retired Maj. Gen. Matthew D. Smith, executive director of veterans initiatives at Emory University, served as the master of ceremonies during the opening ceremony, noted the unity displayed at the event contrasted with today’s political divisiveness. Participants encouraged their fellow man throughout the climb, with strangers & loved ones cheering on fellow climbers as they ascended the stadium steps.

    “The unity that existed in our country after the tragic events of 9/11 was really very special,” Smith said. “When contrasted with the divisiveness we see today, it’s something to strive for.”

    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    Smith, who started working at IBM in Atlanta on Sept. 4, 2001, said the attacks changed the trajectory of his life. He was called to active duty with the Georgia Army National Guard 15 months later for the invasion of Iraq and served almost 25 years on active duty.

    Mercedes-Benz Stadium donated the use of its facilities for the event, while BlackRock provided financial support to allow free participation. Other sponsors included Metropolis Parking and OneLife Fitness.

    The memorial even brought out those who were not yet born during the attacks, including University of North Georgia (UNG) ROTC cadets who said they participated to represent something larger than themselves and support the first responder community.

    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    Jaden Wilbur, a 21-year-old UNG senior, an infantry cadet in army, said the event represents unity in a divided time.

    “9/11 symbolizes us as a country coming together,” Wilbur said.

    Jordan Narhmartey, an 18-year-old UNG freshman studying to be a chaplain in the Army with plans to transfer to the Air Force, said the memorial held personal significance despite his young age.

    “I want to represent something bigger than myself,” Narhmartey said. “With the events happening on 9/11, I want to support my country even more.”

    For Tyus, the memorial serves a crucial purpose for future generations.

    “We have to keep this memory alive for the people coming behind us,” he said. “Some knew that they were never going to come down. So I would be remiss if I didn’t come here and just help keep that memory alive in some way.”

    Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

    Noah Washington

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  • 0-1 v 1-0: Atlanta Falcons are headed to Minnesota for Sunday Night Football

    Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. (above) will be playing his first game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Sept. 14. The Falcons lost by three touchdowns in Minnesota last season, but Penix, Jr. did not play in that game.
    Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    The Atlanta Falcons are on their way to Minnesota for a Sunday Night Football meeting with the Vikings. The warm and friendly confines of Mercedes-Benz Stadium (71,000-plus football fans were in the building for the season opener) and a pro-Falcons crowd will not be waiting for them when they arrive. 

    Falcons quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. made just his fourth professional start on Sunday against the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The game in Minnesota will only be his second on the road. It won’t be the first time he will be in uniform in Minnesota. The Falcons lost 42-12 to the Vikings last season during former starting quarterback Kirk Cousins’s return to his former home on Dec. 8. That game was in the middle of a four-game losing streak and near the end of Cousins’s time as the starter in Atlanta.

    Minnesota won its season opener in Chicago on Monday night and will have a sold-out crowd at U.S. Bank Stadium. Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, similar to Penix, Jr., will be making his first career start at U.S. Bank Stadium on Sunday night. Unlike Penix, Jr., McCarthy threw two fourth-quarter touchdowns and helped lead his team to victory.

    Now Penix, Jr. is starting and coming off of a quality, if not stellar, performance in front of the home fans on Sunday against the Buccaneers (298 yards and a touchdown on 27-42 passing, 21 rushing yards and a touchdown), he was appreciative of the environment at The Benz.

    “Oh yeah, man, that’s big time. We need that. We love it,” Penix said of the crowd participation. “Each and every home game, we want it. We know that they will bring it. Whenever we’re making big-time plays, the city is going to be behind us.” 

    Falcons receiver Chris Blair, who was inactive for the game, agreed with Penix, Jr. about the environment in The Benz on Sunday afternoon.

    “I feel like it was the right energy,” said Blair, an Alcorn State alum. “They showed up for sure.”

    There were plenty of big plays during the game that kept the crowd into it -Penix, Jr.’s fourth quarter go-ahead touchdown run, Bijan Robinson’s six receptions for 100 yards- but the Falcons lost the home and season opener 23-20 to a division rival. Atlanta kicker Young Koo missed a 44-yard field goal that could have tied the game and when he got to the sideline he threw his helmet to the ground in disgust.

    Penix spoke to the press about what he said to Koo after the game. He said he told Koo not to let this kick get him down and to keep being the kicker that the team believes in. 

    The Falcons won’t be back at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for two weeks as the National Football League schedule’s week three matchup will take place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte against the Panthers (0-1 after losing at Jacksonville on Sunday, Sept. 7).

    Penix, Jr. said he is “looking forward” to getting back in front of the home fans that don’t make the trips to Minnesota and Charlotte in the coming weeks.

    “We appreciate them and we look forward to being back home again and having that influence that they brought today,” Penix, Jr. said. 

    The Falcons will host the Washington Commanders on Sunday, Sept. 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. This will be a rematch of sorts for two young quarterbacks. Penix, Jr.’s second career start came against Jayden Daniels and the Commanders in Washington last season. Though the Falcons lost 30-24, Penix, Jr. (19-35, 223 yards, a touchdown and an interception) displayed poise late in that game. 

    Performing in a hostile environment will be what Penix, Jr. and the Falcons will have to do in Minnesota on Sunday night. 

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Braves, Falcons, Panthers & Tech: Busy weekend in Atlanta Sports

    The Atlanta Falcons and General Manager Terry Fontenot (above) will begin the 2025 season at home on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    One season is grinding to an end, while two others are just beginning. This weekend will be busy in Atlanta sports, with the final month of Atlanta Braves baseball games beginning, the start of the Atlanta Falcons season, and the football seasons for Clark Atlanta and Georgia Tech. 

    The Atlanta Falcons, back from another non-playoff season in 2024 (Note: If you’re counting, that’s seven consecutive seasons without a playoff berth), will open the 2025 season with a home game inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, an NFC South rival, is expected to sell out. 

    The Falcons swept Tampa last season, beginning the season 6-3, before the wheels fell off. A strong start to the season will directly coincide with a victory over the Buccaneers on Sunday. 

    The Atlanta Braves will also be in town for the weekend. The Braves spent the early part of the week in Chicago playing the Cubs. Atlanta, back to .500 at home with a 33-33 record, returned to Truist Park to play nine straight. The initial third of that homestand will begin with the Seattle Mariners. Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh (50 home runs) is still pursuing the switch-hitter home run record of 54 by Mickey Mantle in 1961, so there’s a chance that by the time he and the Mariners get to Atlanta, fans could be a part of Major League Baseball history. 

    The Atlanta Braves will host the Seattle Mariners at Truist Park (above) this weekend. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    The Braves lost the series in Chicago after being up several runs in the first game on Monday, losing on a walkoff, and wasting a quality start from Joey Wentz on Tuesday. A pair of Braves pitchers made their Major League debuts on Tuesday night. Dominican right-hander Rolddy Munioz pitched two scoreless innings in the fifth and sixth. Augusta, Georgia native Hayden Harris pitched a 1-2-3 inning in the seventh. 

    Braves rookie catcher Drake Baldwin is racing towards the National League Rookie of the Year award. Baldwin is hitting .283 with 62 RBI and 15 home runs. Though he has only won National League Rookie of the Month once, Baldwin has played a large role in the Braves’ offense this season. His defense behind the plate has also been a plus for a Braves team with very little to celebrate this season. 

    Not to be outdone, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will also play host duties at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Yellow Jackets and Heisman hopeful (joking. Not joking) senior quarterback Haynes King won a close one in Boulder, Colorado, last Friday. 

    During that game, King had 156 rushing yards (and three touchdowns) in comparison to Colorado’s 157 total rushing yards. He also passed for 143 yards during the 27-20 victory. Look for those numbers to be equaled if not surpassed during Tech’s next game against Gardner-Webb on Saturday (3:30 p.m.). 

    Tech will play its next three games at home, including games against Clemson on Sept. 13 and Temple on Sept. 20. 

    The Clark Atlanta University Panthers (right) lost their final home game of the season Saturday, 41-21. Photo by Menra Mapfumo/The Atlanta Voice

    The Clark Atlanta Panthers are back in action in the Atlanta University Center. The Panthers, 0-1 after opening the 2025 season with a 31-28 loss to Valdosta State at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama, last week, will host Florida Memorial University on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.

    Morehouse College, also 0-1, will be in New Jersey at MetLife Stadium on Saturday. The maroon Tigers will face the Howard University Bison in the HBCU NY Football Classic. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.

    Atlanta United forward Miguel Almirón (above) are off this weekend, but will be back in Mercedes-Benz Stadium go host Columbus next Saturday. Photo by Matthew Dingle/Atlanta United

    Atlanta United will be off for the week, but returns to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to host the Columbus Crew on Saturday, Sept. 13. First kick is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. The last time the two teams met at Lower.com Field on June 25 in Columbus, Atlanta United lost 3-0 on a rainy night. The Five Stripes were mired in inconsistent play at the time, and are now playing better heading into the international break in the Major League Soccer schedule.

    Donnell Suggs

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  • CIM Group, CentennialYards Company holds grand opening of the Mitchell Luxury Residential Tower

    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Atlanta’s downtown is getting a new residential tower, and it’s just days from opening its doors. 

    CIM Group and Centennial Yards Company are set to debut The Mitchell, the first completed residential tower in the $5 billion Centennial Yards mixed-use development. Located at 250 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW, this 19-story, 300,000-square-foot luxury apartment building offers 304 modern homes in the heart of Centennial Yards. The Mitchell’s units range from studios to three-bedroom floor plans, with select residences featuring walk-in closets, balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views.

    The Mitchell showcases a unique blend of upscale urban living and a refined downtown lifestyle. Residents have access to a comprehensive range of top-tier amenities, including a community pool with views of the downtown skyline, a premium fitness center with a barre studio, co-working spaces with office suites, multiple outdoor gathering areas, indoor event spaces with a catering kitchen, and a dedicated pet area/spa. Approximately 16,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space is planned to energize the street level with ample outdoor patio space. Khao Thai Isan, a Thai tapas concept introduced last winter by local favorite 26 Thai, will occupy 4,730 square feet.More retail and dining operators will be announced in the coming months. 

    Located at 250 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW, The Mitchell is a 19-story, 300,000-square-foot luxury apartment building bringing 304 modern residences to the heart of Centennial Yards. Photo By Isaiah Singleton /The Atlanta Voice

    Located steps away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena, in proximity to four MARTA stations, and overlooking the emerging Entertainment District at Centennial Yards, The Mitchell benefits from its proximity to a rich tapestry of community assets.

    Nearby attractions include the revitalized South Downtown and Underground Atlanta, the historic and arts-driven Castleberry Hill district, top-tier Georgia universities, and major tourist destinations like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, all contributing to a vibrant and walkable urban experience in Downtown Atlanta.

    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Centennial Yards named The Mitchell to honor and reflect the historic significance of Atlanta’s Mitchell Street corridor. “Opening the Mitchell, the first residential tower at Centennial Yards, is a significant step in transforming Downtown Atlanta into a thriving neighborhood,” said Brian McGowan, President of Centennial Yards Company. “This community will bring new energy and life to downtown, offering a lifestyle that puts residents at the center of everything Atlanta has to offer.” Centennial Yards Company hosted an intimate ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Mitchell on September 4, marking the official opening of this new development.

    The event celebrated the addition of The Mitchell to Centennial Yards and was attended by company representatives, city officials, and community members. The grand opening of The Mitchell at Centennial Yards marks a major milestone in one of the country’s largest and most ambitious city center redevelopments. The 50-acre site where Atlanta was founded is being transformed into a vibrant mixed-use destination that includes several new city blocks with 8 million square feet of commercial and residential space. 

    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Plans feature 4 million square feet of retail, entertainment, office, and hotel space, about 2,000 new residences, and interactive public gathering areas designed to serve both Atlantans and visitors. 

    The Mitchell is the second residential community at Centennial Yards, joining The Lofts at Centennial Yards South, which offers 162 units located above the Georgia-based brewery Wild Leap. 

    The 292-key Hotel Phoenix is scheduled to open later this year. Cosm’s immersive sporting experience is planned for 2026, and a 5,300-seat Live Nation venue was announced earlier this year, with an opening expected in 2027. Centennial Yards Company was established by CIM Group to serve as the owner and master developer of Centennial Yards.

    “The Mitchell residential tower reflects our commitment to creating places that serve and strengthen the community,” Shaul Kuba, Co-Founder and Principal, CIM Group  said. “At Centennial Yards, we are proud to help shape a neighborhood that celebrates local culture, connects people through public spaces, and supports the everyday lives of Atlantans.”

     The Mitchell officially opens Sept. 15.

    Isaiah Singleton

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  • The Weeknd delivered a stargazing show on ‘After Hours Til Dawn’ tour

    This marks the first time in three years he’s played in Atlanta. The Weeknd’s After Hours Til Dawn Tour is also now the highest-grossing R&B tour of all time, grossing $635.5 million and selling 5.1 million tickets since launching in 2022.
    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Abel Tesfaye, better professionally known as The Weeknd, brought his sold-out “After Hours Til Dawn” tour to Atlanta and shut down Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

    The heavy thunderstorms on Thursday night didn’t stop the massive fans from enjoying The Weeknd’s electric catalogue.

    This marks the first time in three years he’s played in Atlanta. The Weeknd’s After Hours Til Dawn Tour is also now the highest-grossing R&B tour of all time, grossing $635.5 million and selling 5.1 million tickets since launching in 2022.

    “It’s been too long, Atlanta. I really can’t believe it’s been three whole years. I’ve really missed y’all,” The Weeknd said.

    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Opening with “The Abyss” and wearing his iconic gilded mask, fans all over the stadium shouted the lyrics back to the star. The R&B singer followed up with “Wake Me Up” and “After Hours” before belting out “Starboy” to the sold-out Atlanta crowd.

    While the crowd belted and screamed “Abel” during a brief pause, 20 songs into the more than 40-song set, The Weeknd brought out Playboi Carti for “Timeless”, who was also one of the openers on the tour.

    From the very start of the show, you felt like you were watching a film with all the effects, dancers, lights, and of course, The Weeknd’s silky vocals. From the perspective of someone who has never been to a Weeknd show, I was truly blown away by the level of artistry and energy he brought to the stage. 

    I love the music, but hearing it live was like entering a new world, or in this case, I was in the world of “After Hours Til Dawn”, and it truly showed. You could see in his eyes how taken aback he was staring out into the crowd hearing his lyrics being screamed to the rooftops.

    Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

    Following “Rather Lie” with Playboi Carti, The Weeknd played “Low Life,” a cover song by the artist Future, who joined him on stage to perform the song. The crowd went wild to see the Atlanta rapper appear on stage.

    The show overall was a true experience that not only showcased The Weeknd’s vast fanbase and lovers of his music, but also how much he prides himself in his love for what he does.

    Some of my favorites performed were “Timeless”, “Save Your Tears”, “Call Out My Name”, “Blinding Lights”, “Can’t Feel My Face”, and so many more.

    Before the show was all done, The Weeknd delivered more than 40 songs on stage, giving fans and everyone alike a vibe and experience they would never forget. With rumors hinting at The Weeknd dropping his stage name after this tour moving forward, this was such an amazing way to highlight his journey as The Weeknd.

    Isaiah Singleton

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  • Atlanta Falcons send Dallas Cowboys home with 27-21 loss. Next Stop: New Orleans

    Atlanta Falcons send Dallas Cowboys home with 27-21 loss. Next Stop: New Orleans

    The Atlanta Falcons defeated the visiting Dallas Cowboys 27-21 on Sunday afternoon in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The much bigger story was how Atlanta’s defense held Dallas to just three points during the first and third quarters.

    Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said his team is still searching for “greatness” and “It’s always nice to play together.”

    “The sky’s the limit.”

    Ahead 14-10 at halftime, Atlanta took advantage of a short field following a Cowboys turnover-on-downs and scored their third touchdown of the game to go ahead 21-10. On the play, Ray-Ray McCloud found some room in the Dallas end zone and Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins found MCCloud on his third touchdown pass of the game to that point. Cousins came into the game with 14 touchdowns, seven interceptions and just over 2,100 passing yards on the season. 

    The third quarter ended with Atlanta’s defense almost holding the Cowboys scoreless before kicker Brandon Aubrey made a 57-yard field goal to bring his team within eight points at 21-13. That made two quarters, the first and the third, that the defense didn’t allow a touchdown. In a close game that made all the difference.  

    Photo by One Circle Entertainment/The Atlanta Voice

    The fourth quarter began with a long drive capped by a Tyler Allgeier touchdown run and filled with runs and catches by Bijan Robinson. Atlanta went ahead 27-13 early in the quarter by going to their best offensive threat over and over again. Robinson, the Falcons leading rusher, led the team with seven receptions. It ended with the Cowboys picking up eight points on a touchdown and two-point conversion, but to no avail. With 1:24 remaining in the game, Atlanta ran out the clock on the Cowboys.

    Back on the defensive side of the ball, Atlanta came into the game with just six sacks this season. Before the first quarter was over there would be two more sacks added to the tally as the Falcons defense held the Cowboys to just three first-quarter points. Dallas wouldn’t score its first offensive touchdown until the five-minute mark of the second quarter when Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott found running back Rico Dowdle in the end zone after nearly being sacked for the third time. Dowdle caught the ball on his back and brought Dallas within four points of Atlanta at 14-10. 

    The Falcons offense put together successful drives on its second possession, a touchdown pass from Cousins to receiver Drake London, and on its fourth possession of the first half, another touchdown pass for Cousins, this time to receiver Darnell Mooney. The touchdown was Mooney’s fifth of the season and Cousins’ 16th.

    The Atlanta Falcons (above)moved to 6-3 following a victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. The Falcons will travel to New Orleans to play the rival Saints on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. Photo by One Circle Entertainment/The Atlanta Voice

    Key Stats:

    The Atlanta Falcons moved to 3-3 at home following the win. They remain undefeated on the road this season.

    Bijan Robinson went over 140 total yards of offense following consecutive receptions in the fourth quarter. After the game, Falcons head coach said Robinson is an example of what it means to be a Falcon. “He just does everything,” said Morris.

    Robinson didn’t score, but found a way to lead the team in receptions and rushing on Sunday. On Robinson’s play, Cousins, who used his time with Dalvon Cook in Minnesota as an example, said, “He’s a big deal. I see a running back as a running back, and I also see them as a receiver.” Sunday was the 43rd time Cousins threw for three or more touchdowns.

    Dallas Cowboys backup quarterback Cooper Rush came into the game early in the fourth quarter for Prescott, who had hamstring issues. Rush completed one of his first three passing attempts for three yards.

    What’s Next:

    The Atlanta Falcons will travel to New Orleans to play the Saints on Sunday, Nov. 10. A victory in New Orleans would give Atlanta a 5-0 record in the NFC South and an undisputed division crown. A victory over the Saints would also mean a sweep of both New Orleans and Tampa this season. 

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Anthony Anderson joins Nikema Williams during a get-out-the-vote event before Saints vs Falcons game

    Anthony Anderson joins Nikema Williams during a get-out-the-vote event before Saints vs Falcons game

    The aromas of barbecue, the bottles of beverages and football fans dressed in red and black or black and gold made their way toward Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a game between the New Orleans Saints versus the Atlanta Falcons. However, at a nearby tailgate, Congresswoman Nikema Williams, D-Georgia, sought to foster a moment of unity before the game.

    “We may be rivals today, but come November 5th, we will be on the same team,” Williams said.

    Williams was joined by actor and activist Anthony Anderson as they co-hosted a get out the vote rally before Sunday’s NFL contest.

    “We want to keep this a blue state, right,” explains Anderson. “I mean, that’s what we’re here to do. It’s important to get out and make a plan to vote, you know? To make sure that people check their voter registration.”

    Each reputable survey says Georgia is a dead heat heading into October. Vice President Kamala Harris trails former President Donald J. Trump by one or two points in various polls.

    Recently, the Georgia State Election Board approved a proposal which mandates poll workers to count paper ballots by hand. According to a recent CBS News poll, four in 10 Trump voters prefer challenges to Georgia’s 2024 results if Harris wins the Peach State.

    Anderson doubled down on the idea that Georgians must double-check their voter registration statuses and vote early.

    “Because on October 7, because if they’re not registered to vote, their vote doesn’t count. So, I’m just out here to bring awareness to that. And to make sure that people have a plan. I want to make sure people come out, vote early and vote in person.”

    The final day to register to vote in the 2024 Presidential Election in Georgia is Monday, October 7th. Early voting in Georgia begins on October 15. 

    Itoro N. Umontuen

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  • Georgia overpowers Clemson 34-3 in season opener

    Georgia overpowers Clemson 34-3 in season opener

    ATLANTA — The top ranked Georgia Bulldogs scored 28 points in the second half, rolling over the 14th ranked Clemson Tigers 34-3 in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

    This win makes it 40 consecutive regular season wins for the Bulldogs, improving their record to 7-0 in season openers under head coach Kirby Smart.

    Smart loved what he saw from his team in the win.

    “Anytime you play in Atlanta in this facility (Mercedes-Benz Stadium) where you’re playing another top-15, top-20 matchup, to me it feels like a playoff game,” Smart said after the game. “It’s a great way to assess where you are as a team. You want to be playing your best towards the end of the year and one of the best barometers is to get quality wins.”

    Offense was at a premium in the first half for both teams. The Bulldogs outgained the Tigers 160-76 in total offense but managed to take a 6-0 lead into halftime.

    Quarterback Carson Beck was confident in the offense ability to execute in the second half.

    “I think coming out in the first quarter, maybe there was a little bit of nerves, maybe guys were trying to get warmed into the game,” Beck said. “Once we got in the second half and saw what they were doing against us, we just kind of deciphered which ways we wanted to attack them and tried to be a little bit aggressive (and) I think we did a really good job of that.”

    Georgia grinds down Clemson in the second half

    The Bulldogs scored on the first drive after halftime. Beck threw a fade to senior Colbie Young for an eight yard touchdown pass.

    The Tigers marched downfield on the ensuing drive. However, they settled for a 26-yard field goal by Nolan Hauser. It would cutting the Bulldogs lead to 13-3 with 6:34 remaining in the third quarter. Consequently, it would be the last time Clemson would score.

    The Bulldogs responded on the next drive. Freshman running back Nate Frazier scored on a one-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 17. Frazier finished the game with 11 carries for 83 yards as the Bulldogs scored twice to finish the game.

    “At the end of the day, we got to fight, finish,” said Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods. “It’s a long season ahead. There’s no hope for a better yesterday, but there’s hope for us to do something about it tomorrow and the day after that and the days to come. That’s kind of how we’re approaching that.”

    YouTube video

    Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck finished 23-33, throwing for 278 yards and two touchdowns. He improves to 14-1 as a starter and 6-1 against ranked opponents.

    “First of all, congrats to Georgia,” said Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney. “It was a good first half. Tough, hard-fought first half. Then they just freaking kicked our tails in the second half. Congrats to them. They’re a great team. They’ve been a great team. They showed in the third and fourth quarter what it looks like.”

    Georgia will host Tennessee Tech next Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.

    Anfernee Patterson

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  • Jamal Thiaré and Atlanta United steal victory from Toronto in thrilling fashion

    Jamal Thiaré and Atlanta United steal victory from Toronto in thrilling fashion

    Atlanta United Forward Jamal Thiaré scored the game winning goal in the 97th minute, giving the Five Stripes a much-needed 2-1 victory over Toronto FC. Thiaré’s goal sent the crowd of 42,568 into delirium while securing the three points.

    With the victory, Atlanta United is now two points out of seventh place.

    “I wasn’t surprised, because I just had a feeling that the goalkeeper was going to put the ball down on the turf, and then I focused on making sure to do my job,” Thiaré said after the game.

    The victory was the first for interim manager Rob Valentino. In his post-match remarks, Valentino admitted he’s never seen a contest end this way.

    “That’s what we were joking about, exactly how we wanted it,” Valentino said. “I would say I’m on the younger side of coaching and the younger side of being in the game, but I have never seen anything like that. I made the joke to Dax [McCarty], after I ridiculously went sprinting down the sideline, that he has played 20 years now and I bet he has never seen a finish like that. It was incredible, bizarre, but I’m glad we’re on this side of it.”

    Designated Players showed up tonight

    Meanwhile, Thiago Almada scored his sixth goal of the season two minutes into first-half stoppage time. While rumors abound regarding Almada’s future in Atlanta, his performance throughout the match were of very high standard. He was proactive in the final third and was looking to create opportunities for himself and the fellow attackers.

    Federico Bernardeschi quickly equalized for Toronto after the halftime break. He was assisted on the goal by fellow Italian, Lorenzo Insigne. The second half evolved into a cagey battle as both teams counterattacked and nearly scored potential game-winning goals.

    In the end, it was Thiaré’s brilliance that broke the deadlock. 

    “I mean it will only help us in the best of ways,” says Atlanta United defender Caleb Wiley. “I think we really needed that win. We go back on the road next week. So I think the boys are in pretty high spirits after this win and we’ll go to New England and try to do the same thing.”

    Atlanta United’s next home match will be against New York City FC on July 17th. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM. 

    Itoro N. Umontuen

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  • Same thing, different day: Atlanta United falls at home 3-2 to rival Charlotte, suffers fifth straight home loss

    Same thing, different day: Atlanta United falls at home 3-2 to rival Charlotte, suffers fifth straight home loss

    Charlotte came into the match with a record of 6-4-6 and in seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings. Atlanta (now 4-4-8 overall), though further down in the standings, brought momentum with them back to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday. A victory at Inter Miami on Wednesday was the team’s first victory on the road this season. It didn’t matter, as Charlotte managed to win in Atlanta again, this time 3-2 in front of 61,209 fans. 

    The loss was the team’s fifth consecutive at home. “We are playing good, but when you don’t score the goals in key moments you suffer,” Atlanta United manager Gonzalo Pineda said after the match.

    Something had to give

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Atlanta United, winless in last 5 matches, hosts D.C. next Saturday

    Atlanta United, winless in last 5 matches, hosts D.C. next Saturday

    Atlanta United hosted Minnesota United FC Saturday night, May 4, 2024. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    Atlanta, who will host D.C. United next Saturday (7:30 p.m. first kick), came into its game against Minnesota United FC on Saturday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium ninth in the Eastern Conference standings. Winless in its last four matches (three draws and a loss), Atlanta United was a point behind D.C. United and tied with Montreal FC with 12 points in the standings. With consecutive road matches in Cincinnati and Nashville on May 15 and 18, victories at home have quickly become paramount to staying in playoff contention.

    That winless streak has now moved to five games following a 2-1 loss to Minnesota. Following the loss, Atlanta United manager Gonzalo Pineda was positive about how the team played and added that he feels the team is “fully committed” to what the goals for this season are.

    Atlanta United manager Gonzalo Pineda (above) during his postgame press conference following a 2-1 loss to Minnesota United on Sat., May 4, 2024. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    “It was a difficult game,” Pineda said. “We had all the numbers on our side except for the score.”

    Donnell Suggs

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  • Lindsey Horan’s penalty kick gives US a 2-1 win over Japan in SheBelieves Cup

    Lindsey Horan’s penalty kick gives US a 2-1 win over Japan in SheBelieves Cup

    Lindsey Horan scored on a penalty kick in the 77th minute and allowed the United States to get past Japan 2-1 in the SheBelieves Cup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Saturday afternoon in Atlanta.

    Japan forward Kiko Seike dashed down the wing and evaded a defender with a shot that was out of the reach of U.S. goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. With Seike’s goal in the first thirty seconds, it was the earliest the United States allowed a goal since 2003.

    Notably, there were 50,644 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a record for a friendly match for the United States women on home soil. It was also the largest crowd for a women’s game in the United States since the 1999 World Cup final.

    Itoro N. Umontuen

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  • Atlanta United play it pretty, win home opener 4-1

    Atlanta United play it pretty, win home opener 4-1

    An Atlanta United supporter sign asked the team to “Play It Pretty” during the home opener Saturday night. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

    Atlanta United returned home to a crowd of 67,727 inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday night. The home opener is always a popular affair, but this one felt different. Coming off of a 1-0 season-opening loss in Columbus on Feb. 24, this match felt like the true beginning of the season. 

    And what a beginning it was. Atlanta not only won the match 4-1 but demonstrated that its back line will be a source of frustration for opponents this season. In two matches this season, Atlanta has allowed just two goals. 

    The victory was also the Mercedes-Benz Stadium debut for a number of Five Stripes players, including defenders Derrick Williams and Stian Gregersen. 

    Donnell Suggs

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