The Atlanta Link, the exclusive shuttle serving Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, advanced its corporate social responsibility in supporting the environment by offsetting its annual carbon footprint through Verus Carbon Neutral.

"We wanted to give back to the environment," said The Atlanta Link General Manager, Lily Santander. "We strive to run our operations as efficiently and environmentally friendly as possible. We do a lot of the little things to help achieve this goal.  We require our drivers to turn off their vehicles when they don't have passengers on board, and we also have a daily maintenance check list that improves our fuel mileage and operational efficiency."

"All of the little things add up," said Verus Carbon Neutral's Eric Taub. "It takes a big fleet to service an airport as large as Hartsfield-Jackson. Saving a few gallons of fuel each day because your tires are properly inflated really adds up. We also discovered that The Atlanta Link is recycling, reusing printing paper and switching to T8 Alto II fluorescent lights."

The Atlanta Link offset the annual emissions of their fleet of 19 vehicles and their administrative office with a Georgia forestry project, managed by Valley Wood Timber. Certified and registered with the Chicago Climate Exchange, the project protects over 60,000 acres of forest and proceeds support the Humane Society.

Verus Carbon Neutral is a member of the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX), the world's first and North America's only active, voluntary and legally binding offset trading system. Verus Carbon Neutral provides high-quality offset projects that are third-party verified by the CCX. The Environmental Defense Fund recently recommended 12 offset projects, of which, seven were registered on the Chicago Climate Exchange.

To assure more funding goes to offset projects, Verus Carbon Neutral has the most transparent offset pricing in North America.

Take Dad to a fun-filled afternoon of Father's Day in the Garden Sunday, June 21, when the whole family can enjoy live music, fun activities and carnival food.

The seventh annual event, held from 1 to 5 p.m., will feature bluegrass music, educational activities, the Ride-On-Train ($2) and a show of "dream cars" for Dad to drool over. Kids can enjoy a puppet show and old-fashioned games on the Great Lawn. Carnival food will be available for purchase, and the Garden Café will serve its regular menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks.

Dads will be treated to half-price admission, and members will be admitted free. The Garden is located at 1345 Piedmont Ave NE. For information, call 404-876-5859 or go to http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/.

 

Young Braves fans can celebrate the start of summer on Ultimate Kids Day at Turner Field, featuring $5 kids tickets, on Sunday, June 7^th when the Braves take on the Milwaukee Brewers at 1:30 p.m.  Upper Level seats normally priced from $12-$6, are available now for $5 at www.braves.com/summer or the Turner Field Ticket Office for all children 14 and under.

Following up Ultimate Kids Day, Braves fans of all ages can take advantage of great savings on Dave Ramsey Dollar Night, presented by 640 WGST on Monday, June 8^th when the Braves will take on the Pittsburgh Pirates at 7:00 p.m. All Upper Reserved Tickets, normally priced at $8, are available for only $1 at www.braves.com/daveramsey or at the Turner Field Ticket Office.

Ultimate Kids Day Activities:

• Participate in a pre-game parade around the field
• Visit the Braves Museum for free
• Play the interactive games in Scouts Alley for free
• Braves alumni will sign autographs before the game
• Bat Day presented by The Home Depot - First 15,000 fans receive replica Brian McCann Braves Bat
• Kids Run the Bases after the game

Additionally, parents who purchase $5 kids tickets online at Braves.com/Summer will have their children entered to win an unforgettable experience including:

• Announcing the Braves starting line-up as the Guest P.A. Announcer
• Saying "Play Ball!" to start the game

The Atlanta Braves is Major League Baseball's winningest franchise since 1991.  During that time, Braves teams have earned 14 division championships, five National League pennants and a World Series title.  Based in Atlanta since 1966, the Braves franchise is the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball.  Atlanta Braves games are telecast on FS South, SportSouth, and Peachtree TV with radio broadcasts heard in Atlanta on 640 WGST, Project 9-6-1 (96.1 FM) and VIVA 105.7 and regionally on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network.

www.atlantabraves.com

 

Visitors will soon get a life-size prehistoric welcome when they arrive at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The Museum is nearing completion on its iconic new Entrance Plaza, which features a family of bronze dinosaurs poised to greet visitors-many of them families as well-as they arrive.

The pedestrian-friendly outdoor plaza also surrounds the museum entrance with elements of the natural world by converting part of the original driveway into expanded green space that includes lush plants, trees and flowers. The entrance plaza will provide an open atmosphere for outdoor enjoyment while instantly connecting visitors to nature and the prehistoric world, a journey that continues inside the museum as exhibitions, IMAX films and programs explore archaeology, paleontology, ecology, world cultures, and more.

The plaza, which will officially open on May 30, is the culmination of a major initiative to add more opportunities for visitors to engage with nature and further expand exhibition space beyond the walls of the museum. The forthcoming addition of an amphitheatre and a stage will help Fernbank meet the growing demand for outdoor programming, including performances and presentations. 

"Fernbank Museum is the cornerstone of an environmental legacy that began over 100 years ago. The entrance plaza connects visitors with the beauty of the natural world as soon as they arrive," said Fernbank Museum's President & CEO, Susan Neugent. "The scenery of the plaza also provides a natural setting for our new dinosaur family, which will welcome the families of visitors to Fernbank as they embark on a captivating exploration of nature, prehistory and culture."

Fernbank Museum is the first to reconstruct Lophorhothon atopus using the most current science to bring the fossils to life through a family of three bronze dinosaurs pausing for a drink in a streambed.

"This plaza is an exciting addition to the Museum, both for its beauty and for its ability to expand Fernbank's exhibitions and learning outdoors," said Fernbank's Vice President of Education, Christine Bean. "Fernbank's exhibition design team did a remarkable job highlighting two of our key areas of focus-the environment and paleontology-which maintains Fernbank's commitment to the newest research. We can already tell what a hit the plaza will be by the number of visitors who take photographs in front of the fountain, even though the dinosaurs have yet to arrive."

On May 30, Fernbank Museum will celebrate the grand opening of the Entrance Plaza with a "Dinosaur Block Party" welcoming the family of dinosaurs back to Georgia, where they roamed 72-86 million years ago. The dinosaurs are a species of hadrosaur and are part of an outdoor exhibition, which includes details about the dinosaurs, their prehistoric environment, and their deduced behaviors, including that they may have cared for their young.

All "Dinosaur Block Party" activities, which include puppet making, games and more, are included with Museum admission, which is $15 for adults, $14 for students and seniors, $13 for children ages 3-12, and free for members and children ages 2 and younger.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History is located at 767 Clifton Road NE in Atlanta.  For tickets and more information, visit fernbankmuseum.org or call 404.929.6400.

Fernbank's "Dinosaur Block Party," held on May 30 in conjunction with Fernbank's summer-long series 90 Days of Dinosaurs, will include:

• Dinosaur Egg Balancing Game 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Front Plaza
• Balloon Animals 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Front Plaza
• Café Concession Stand 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Front Plaza
• Puppet Factory, courtesy of the Center for Puppetry Arts 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Great Hall. Make your very own dinosaur puppet using a variety of recycled materials.
• Dinosaur Face Painting 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Great Hall
• Dinosaur Lab 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Naturalist Center (Upper Level) Learn more about dinosaurs during a special session of Weekend Wonders.

Press Contact: Brandi Berry-404.929.6339 or brandi.berry@fernbankmuseum.org

ATLANTA (April 22, 2009) - Hot-air balloon rides, bronze pourings, sheep pettings, scavenger hunts. It's all part of the fun and excitement May 2-3 during the Atlanta Botanical Garden's grand opening of its green expansion and special exhibition of Henry Moore's monumental sculptures.

The ongoing project treats visitors to more gardens, more parking and more access to green space than ever before. And to celebrate, the Garden will at the same time unveil Moore in America, the largest outdoor exhibition of world renowned British artist Henry Moore's massive bronzes ever presented in the United States.  Ranked last year by TIME magazine as one of the top 10 museum exhibitions in the country when it appeared at The New York Botanical Garden, the 20 sculptures, all on loan from The Henry Moore Foundation in England, can be viewed through October.

The sculptures, most so tall, wide and heavy they require cranes for placement, will appear even larger when set amongst the dense plantings of the expanded Garden. The project includes the first phase of the new Southern Seasons Garden as well as the new Hardin Visitor Center and SAGE parking facility, both designed and built to the strictest LEED-certification standards.

"We've got quite a lot to celebrate this spring because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for visitors to experience Henry Moore before the sculptures return to England, all while touring brand new gardens and facilities," said Mary Pat Matheson, the Garden's executive director.

Most grand opening events will be held between 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3. rain or shine, including:

• Hot-air balloon rides for a bird's eye view of breathtaking new gardens.
• Bronze-pouring demonstrations for a taste of how Moore created his sculpture.
• The Big Draw, including contour drawings and chalk drawings on pavement where artist wannabes can show their talents.
• A sheep petting for a little flavor of Moore's beloved English countryside.
• Children's sculpting using home-made play dough.
• Puppet shows and storytelling in the children's amphitheatre.
• "Ask the Expert" stations and Discovery Carts for answering visitor questions.
• Cash bars and live music for setting the right springtime mood.

All events are free with garden admission except for balloon rides ($10 per person).

The Garden is collaborating with The New York Botanical Garden and The Henry Moore Foundation to bring Moore in America to Atlanta. The exhibition is sponsored nationally by MetLife Foundation and supported locally by UPS.

The mission of the Atlanta Botanical Garden is to develop and maintain plant collections for display, education, research, conservation and enjoyment. The Garden, located at 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, is open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from April through October (until 10 p.m. on Thursdays) and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from November through March. For information, call 404-876-5859 or go to http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/ or http://www.henry-moore.org/.

 

ATLANTA (May 1, 2009) -- The Georgian Terrace Hotel has been an Atlanta landmark since its grand opening on October 2, 1911, at a gala attended by thousands. Designed in the Beaux Arts style as a Southern interpretation of a Parisian hotel, it is Atlanta's most elegant hotel and has been marked by lavish affairs including the "Gone With the Wind" premiere party and legendary concerts under promoter Alex Cooley, who used the Georgian Terrace ballroom from 1974 to 1979, for his famous Electric Ballroom featuring bands such as Aerosmith, Bruce Springsteen, The Pretenders, Patti Smith, Kansas and The Ramones.  Today, the hotel owner, Fremont Realty Capital has completed an $11 million renovation to put this historic jewel back into service as a modern classic, operated by Crescent Hotels & Resorts. 

Located in the lobby is one of the crowning jewels of the renovation, Livingston Restaurant and Bar, featuring acclaimed Chef Gary Mennie's inventive local cuisine.  Offering five distinctive atmospheres, diners can enjoy signature cocktails at The Bar at Livingston, small plates in the lounge or a multi-course meal in the main dining room. In addition, the upper level of the restaurant, known as The Loge at Livingston, offers a quieter dining experience while still in view of the action below and the street scene overlooking the Fox Theater. There is an intimate private dining room that can accommodate up to 20 guests for cocktail and dining events and an expansive columned terrace overlooking Peachtree Street. Complimentary valet parking rounds out the easy dining experience. 

The Georgian Terrace Hotel and Livingston Restaurant and Bar are the official hotel and restaurant of the Fox Theater, providing the ultimate dinner-and-a-show experience for local Atlantans, hotel guests and Fox patrons.  The hotel's central location provides ample complimentary parking for diners and guests, fabulous pre- and post-theater menus, unparalleled access to the Fox - located directly across the street - and the ideal spot for a night-cap or dessert. 

The renovation also consisted of the addition of a third ballroom and board room, a complete refreshing of the lobby, new complimentary high speed Wi-Fi internet throughout the property and several redesigned and updated guest rooms and suites. 

The lavish ballrooms include the newly created Mitchell, which accommodates up to 80 and is ideal for intimate social gatherings, wedding ceremonies and business meetings; the spectacular Grand Ballroom, which holds a seated dinner for 225 and theater-style seating for up to 275; and the elegant Piedmont Ballroom, which accommodates a seated dinner for up to 200 and 250 theater style.  Brides will be dazzled by award-winning Chef Mennie's incredible menus inspired by Livingston Restaurant. 

The hotel's 5,514 square-feet of dedicated meeting room space was recently re-certified by the International Association of Conference Centers (IAAC). With over 16,000 square-feet of meeting and ballroom space, The Georgian Terrace is an inspired place to celebrate and do business.  The concierge, planners and caterers attend every need-from audiovisual support to cocktail receptions to group activities and banquets.

Guests will be met by a completely renovated lobby. The new design brings a modern edge to a classic terrace environment with the installation of sculptural landscape pieces and sophisticated furnishings, all designed to enhance the grand architecture of the space.  The new front desk located in the spacious atrium lobby, creates a welcoming entrance experience for guests, in line with the grand nature of the hotel. 

Throughout the hotel all hallway and ballroom carpet, totaling over 1-1/2 acres, was replaced with custom-designed, plush, multi-level patterned carpet.  The entire hotel is upgraded to provide free wireless Internet access throughout all public spaces.  

All guestrooms were upgraded with a lush Serta Sapphire Suite Pillow top - Perfect Sleeper mattresses complemented with luxurious bedding packages of all-white duvet, navy blue and gold pillow shams, gold bed skirts, navy blue bed scarf and 300-plus thread-count linens.  Guestrooms also received new 45- and 37-inch flat screen high definition TVs in all family rooms and master bedrooms.  The guestrooms also boast new complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi internet connections.

Two major suites, a penthouse suite and a three-bedroom suite, with more than 1,500 and 1,750 square-feet respectively, have been completely remodeled for guest stays and special functions.  The suites will be available for use in conjunction with weddings as a preparation room for brides and their bridal parties as well as visiting dignitaries, VIP guests and for honeymoons. 

The hotel has a total of 326 guestrooms including luxury rooms as wells as one-, two- and three-bedroom suites complete with kitchens and washer/dryer.  The hotel also has six large premier penthouses.  There is a penthouse gym and rooftop pool both with dramatic view of the city.  Situated in the heart of the Midtown's arts and culture district, the hotel is within walking distance to great restaurants, museums and retail. 

The renovation was intended to bring this grand dame hotel back to its original splendor and updated for the 21^st century guest.  It sits on the northeast corner of the intersection of Peachtree Street and Ponce de Leon Avenue, which was referred when it was built as "the city's most famous intersection." New York architect, William L. Stoddart designed hotel to address both streets through the use of turreted corners connecting the two facades. This effect was further enhanced by the curving facade of the neighboring Ponce de Leon Apartments, also designed by Stoddart, and opened in 1913. Together, the Georgian Terrace Hotel and the Ponce de Leon Apartments share this prominent intersection with the "Fabulous" Fox Theater, built in 1927, one of the largest theatres built during the height of the golden age of movie palaces.

The Georgian Terrace has played host to many prominent individuals including President Calvin Coolidge, Enrico Caruso and the Metropolitan Opera Company, Charles Lindbergh and F. Scott Fitzgerald.  Of late, the hotel welcomed Courtney B. Vance, Angela Bassett, President Jimmy Carter, Dominique Wilkins, Bob Dole, Matthew Fox and the cast of the movie "We are Marshall."  George Clooney and the hotel were recently featured in a short glamorous Martini film.

The hotel's rich history includes dance legend Arthur Murray as a featured teacher in the hotel's Grand Ballroom and numerous fundraisers that took place for the war effort during WWII. It served as a popular gathering place for wealthy Atlantans and emerged as a symbol of the resurrection of the Southern capital from its faded Civil War ruins.  The hotel sits on the former site of the two-story home of one of Atlanta's most beloved mayors Livingston Mims, elected in 1900, and whose legacy was the creation of Atlanta's streetcars.

New York, NY/Atlanta, GA - April 14, 2009 - Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today proudly announces the debut of the St. Regis hotel brand in Georgia with the opening of The St. Regis Atlanta. Ideally located in the elite Buckhead community, the hotel features 151 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, 51 branded St. Regis Residences, Georgia's first Remède Spa, a 40,000-square-foot Pool Piazza, more than 16,800 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, a state-of-the-art fitness center and an impressive selection of world-class cuisine. Owned by SR Hotel Development Company, LLLP and designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates, The St. Regis Atlanta combines modern sophistication with classic Southern style to offer an unparalleled level of luxury and bespoke service at one the best addresses in the world.

"We are proud to debut the St. Regis brand in Georgia with the opening of The St. Regis Atlanta, featuring the iconic luxury, unmatched privilege and bespoke services for which the St. Regis brand is renowned," said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. "Truly one of the South's most desirable destinations, Buckhead offers our guests a unique mix of world-class art, fashion, culture and cuisine at one of the best addresses in the world."

Designed by renowned design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates, the 26-story St. Regis Atlanta is surrounded by lush landscaping and features a dramatic façade with expansive semicircular windows that offer spectacular Atlanta skyline views. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a pair of dramatic, curved staircases that serve as the centerpiece of the hotel lobby as well as two magnificent fireplaces inspired by those found in traditional Southern estates. Each guest room features Macassar Ebony furniture, leather-wrapped writing desks, domed crystal chandeliers and luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. The unique and spacious five-fixture marble bathrooms, among the largest in Atlanta, offer oversized bathtubs, separate showers and dual vanities. In addition, each room includes a 37-inch LCD television with DVD player, a state-of-the-art sound system, MP3 docking station and an innovative 17-inch LCD television recessed behind the bathroom mirror, enabling images to be projected onto a screenless surface.

Dining at The St. Regis Atlanta indulges the senses with diverse culinary offerings, ranging from American bistro cuisine at Paces 88, complete with private seating and outdoor patio, to specialty cocktails including St. Regis's Bloody Mary and signature Afternoon Tea ritual in the hotel's wood-paneled bar. Guests can also sample premium, international wine selections in The Wine Room or enjoy live piano entertainment in The Long Gallery. The hotel's stunning Pool Piazza offers private cabanas, a spectacular waterfall and a casual, yet stylish, Poolside Bar & Café.

St. Regis' signature Remède Spa offers the spa brand's exclusive Laboratoire Remède skincare line renowned for its anti-aging therapies. Guests can drift away while experienced therapists offer customized massage, facial and body treatments in one of eight discreet treatment rooms or in the exclusive Couples' Suite. The spa will also feature a Vichy treatment room, manicure and pedicure stations, and men's and women's lounges where guests can unwind while indulging in signature refreshments, truffles, and bite sized indulgences. In addition, guests are invited to indulge in a range of rejuvenation offerings, including daily yoga classes overlooking the Pool Piazza.

An ideal destination for weddings, meetings and social events, The St. Regis Atlanta features more than 16,000 square feet of state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor function space including The Astor Ballroom with over 9,000 square feet of function space and 19-foot ceilings, up to four private spaces, ideal for breakout sessions and an enchanting outdoor balcony. Surrounded by trees with countless flickering lights and set amidst the soothing sounds of a lion's head fountain, the Astor Ballroom Balcony creates a magical al fresco moment for any occasion.

The exclusive Residences at The St. Regis Atlanta boast exceptional views of the Atlanta skyline and feature private resident elevators as well as access to the hotel's facilities and signature amenities, including the legendary St. Regis Butler Service. Residence owners have the opportunity to choose from four designer series floor plans, all featuring innovative outdoor living spaces that include a fireplace and built-in gas grill.

Following in the tradition of the iconic St. Regis Hotel New York, The St. Regis Atlanta will feature the famed hallmarks of St. Regis hotels including the legendary St. Regis Butler Service, bespoke guest experiences and luxury accommodations tailored to meet global travelers' needs. Trained in the English tradition, the butlers provide ever-present, yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guests needs and customizing each guest's stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences. 

The St. Regis Atlanta joins a select portfolio of St. Regis hotels in the best addresses around the world including Aspen, Bali, Beijing, Bora Bora, Houston, London, Monarch Beach, New York, Punta Mita,, Rome, San Francisco, Shanghai, Singapore and Washington, D.C.

For more information on The St. Regis Atlanta, please visit: www.stregis.com/atlanta

On Friday, April 17th, Max Lager's Wood Fired Grill & Brewery, located in the heart of downtown, is tapping its Lucky Eleven Lager Anniversary Reserve to the tunes of Jango Monkey in celebration of 11 years in Atlanta.

The festivities begin in the upstairs Brewery Tavern at 6 pm with drinks and tapas specials, and a shrimp boil follows on the deck at 7 pm. Jango Monkey kicks off the music at 9 pm. Champagne and chocolate fondue will be served to top off the anniversary party, and gifts and prizes will be raffled throughout the evening. Dinner specials will be offered in the restaurant.

In keeping with Max Lager's Drink Beer Do Good goal to aid Atlanta's needy, Max Lager's will donate 50 cents of every Lucky Eleven pint sold. The details and directions to the event are located at http://maxlagers.com/page/1oh93/1_html/lucky11.html. $2 parking validation is available to those parking at the SunTrust Plaza deck.

Plan to join us!

About Max Lager's Wood Fired Grill & Brewery

Established in 1998, Max Lager's Wood Fired Grill & Brewery features a diverse menu specializing in wood-fired cuisine, fresh salads, and craft brewed beers. Located at the corner of Peachtree and West Peachtree Streets (320 Peachtree Street) in a beautifully renovated two-story brick building, Max Lager's is within walking distance to all major downtown attractions including The New World of Coca-Cola and The Georgia Aquarium, as well as The Tabernacle, The Rialto, Philips Arena, the Civic Center, and the Georgia Dome/Georgia World Congress Center complex.

Max Lager's Wood Fired Grill & Brewery
320 Peachtree St.
Atlanta, GA 30308
404.525.4400
404.525.4417 (Fax)
Max Lager's www.maxlagers.com
Jango Monkey www.jangomonkey.com

The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University has received ConventionSouth magazine's Reader's Choice Award for top meeting site. More than 18,000 readers were asked to cast their votes for the Reader's Choice Awards, and only the top vote getters out of approximately 2,000 meeting sites and CVBs received this award.

The Rialto Center offers a convenient downtown Atlanta location with secured, subsidized parking; an 833-seat theatre with complete sound, light and projection capabilities; a spacious lobby with a sound system that can accommodate 200 for seated banquet or theater-style; and a 1,100 square-foot SunTrust Suite, which is perfect for small meetings, training sessions or pre-show dinners.

For rental information, contact the Events Department at 404-413-9815 or rialtoevents@gsu.edu.

Best Corporate Event: A Legendary Event
Best Social Event: Karen Casey Events
Best Event on a Shoestring: Kardon Events
Most Creative Venue: Your Event Solutions
Logistical Achievement Planning: Your Event Solutions
Best Floral Design: Bold American Events and Catering
Best Non-Floral Design: Bold American Events and Catering
Best Themed Event Décor: A Legendary Event
Best Table Top Design: A Legendary Event
Best Use of Decorative Linens: Tabletoppers Inc.
Best Plated Menu: The Peachtree Club
Best Buffet Reception Menu: Atlanta Event Center at Opera
Best Menu on a Shoestring: Added Touch Catering
Best Cake Presentation: Baker's Man
Best Entertainment Production: Corporate Events and Meetings
Best Entertainment on a Shoestring: Spectrum Entertainment
Best Themed Entertainment: Corporate Events and Meetings
Most Unique Entertainment: Quantum Events and Entertainment
Best Audio Visual Design: Active Production and Design
Best Lighting Design: Infinite Designs
Best Special Effects: The Magnum Companies, ltd.
Best Use of Media/Technology: The Magnum Companies, ltd.
Tech Production: Logistical Achievement: Infinite Designs
Best Support Piece: Inviting Ideas
Best Tent Installation: Tents Unlimited, Inc.
Best Use of Rental Equipment: Classic Party Rentals
Best Event Innovation: Amusement Masters
Best Event Photography: Shari Zellers
Best Team Effort: “Enchanting Nuptials – Take Two”
Team of: TentsUnlimited Inc, The Magnum Companies, Event Rentals Unlimited, Tony Brewer & Company, Kreative Media, American Event Services, Bacchanalia Restaurant, Paces Paper Fine Stationary, Nancy Braithwaite Designs

ATLANTA, March 9, 2009 - With over 260,000 visitors to-date, "The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" has set a new record for the highest-attended exhibition in the museum's history. In preparation for the final weeks (exhibition closes April 19), the High is offering extended hours, special viewing hours for museum members only, and special promotions for discounted admission. The exhibition, which opened on November 16, 2008, was inspired by one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Featuring over 100 works, including 15 terracotta figures, the exhibition represents one of the largest groups of important works relating to the First Emperor ever to be loaned to the U.S.

Extended Hours through April 19

• All Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday, March 20, 10 a.m. to 12 midnight for Friday Jazz
• Monday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, April 12, 12 to 5 p.m.
• Monday, April 13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, April 17, 10 a.m. to 12 midnight for Friday Jazz
• Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday, April 19, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Member-Only Hours

• Saturdays in March and April, 9 to 10 a.m.
• Sunday, April 5 and 12, 11 a.m. to 12 noon
• Sunday, April 19, 10 a.m. to 12 noon

Only "The First Emperor" exhibition will be open during member-only viewing times. Other galleries will open when the Museum opens to the general public.

Special Ticket Discounts

• $5 College Admission in March: For all college students with valid I.D; walk-up only.
• ½ Price Thursday Nights in March: 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays; 50% off all admission tickets; walk-up and phone only.
• King Tut/First Emperor Combo Ticket: See two of the world's greatest treasures in Atlanta. www.high.org/kingsticket
• Whales and Warriors: Explore the Georgia Aquarium and one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century for one price. Tickets are available at the Aquarium Box Office, online at georgiaaquarium.org and the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office. Tickets can also be purchased through the Aquarium Call Center at 404.581.4000 and the Woodruff Arts Center at 404.733.5000. You may visit the Aquarium on the same day as or any time within 7 days of your Terracotta visit.
• Atlanta Zoo and Atlanta Botanical Gardens: Show your ticket stub and/or Membership Card from the Zoo or Botanical Gardens and receive a discount on admission to "The First Emperor." Walk-up tickets only; for more information, click here>>

"The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" is made possible by Lead Sponsor GE, Presenting Sponsor Portman and Official Global Delivery Partner UPS, Official Airline Partner Delta Air Lines, Official Media Partner Turner Broadcasting and Supporting Sponsors Mandarin Oriental and Viking River Cruises. Generous support is provided by The Henry Luce Foundation. Additional support provided by The E. Rhodes and Leona Carpenter Foundation and The Blakemore Foundation. This exhibition is presented in association with the British Museum with support from Morgan Stanley.

#  #  #

Media contacts:

Cassandra Champion Streich                 
Senior Manager of Public Relations
Tel: 404-733-4436 | Fax: 404-733-4529
E-mail: cassandra.streich@woodruffcenter.org

Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but moms prefer pearls. Necklaces and earrings are so passé - go to the source! This Mothers' Day, treat your special lady to oysters at Legal Sea Foods and see what treasures you may discover on the half shell.

Anchored in the new Hilton Garden Inn directly across from the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park, the oyster bar is a hallmark of Legal Sea Foods. Varying from sweet and meaty to briny and crisp, the oysters are $2.25 per oyster, $12.95 for half a dozen or $25.95. Additionally diners can opt for the Oyster Choister-a selection of available varieties that are also $12.95 for half a dozen or $25.95 for a dozen.

Legal Sea Foods ensures that its oysters are the best-tasting and safest in the industry through its rigorous food safety measures. All shellfish are separated into batches according to vendor and certified bed area and are tested for purity within 24 hours at the Legal Sea Foods Quality Control Center, a state-of-the-art fish processing center complete with in-house laboratory. Each item remains quarantined until test results confirm negative for toxins.

About Legal Sea Foods: Legal Sea Foods' original founder George Berkowitz opened the location in 1968 adjacent to his fish market in Cambridge, Mass. Since opening, the restaurant has been named "Best Seafood Restaurant in America" by NBC's The Today Show, was listed as one of the "Top 10 Tried-and-True Restaurants in America" by Bon Appétit magazine and considered "#1 Family Friendly Restaurant" by Parents Magazine. With 35 restaurants along the Eastern Seaboard, Legal Sea Foods has received scores of honors and accolades and proudly carries its well-earned reputation as the nation's finest seafood restaurant. Second-generation owner Roger Berkowitz is currently at the helm of Legal Sea Foods, leading the company towards continued growth, all the while ensuring it lives up to its proud tradition. Legal Sea Foods is located at 275 Baker St., Atlanta, Ga., 30313. To make reservations or for more information, please visit http://www.legalseafoods.com/ or call 678-500-3700.

Media Contact: Jill Caramella, jill@thereynoldsgroupinc.com or Audrey Califf, audrey@thereynoldsgroupinc.com  

183 @ Legends Banquet & Special Event Center (http://www.gotours.com/): Legends, located across from Turner Field, is the ideal location for corporate meetings, conferences and social events.  Make your next affair Legendary!

Atlanta Transportation Systems (http://www.twdinc.net/): ATS, Inc. was established in 1995 providing non-emergency medical transportation services for mentally disable and senior citizens throughout the Metropolitan Atlanta region. As we continue to expand, ATS Inc will also provide group charters as well as transportation for family reunions.

Connections Housing (http://www.connectionshousing.com/): Full service meeting planning and housing company offering complete, complimentary meeting management services including discounted hotel rates for groups from 100 - 92,000.

Crownover Enterprises (http://www.fakepaparazi.net/): Providing the best Fake Paparazzi, Walk-Around Characters, Look-Alikes, Murder Mysteries and Interactive Shows - GUARANTEED!

Dignitary Protection Services (http://www.dignitaryprotection.us/): Dignitary Protection Service is a security firm that conducts full scale security and investigative operations. 

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The Georgia World Congress Center Authority announced this week that it has joined forces with its downtown Atlanta neighbors to form a Zero Waste Zone. This will be the first zone of its kind in the southeast and one of the first in the nation. Members, which include local restaurants, attractions and hotels, have pledged to recycle, reuse spent grease for the local production of biofuel and to compost or donate food residuals in order to drastically decrease the amount of waste going to landfills. The Authority, which includes the Georgia World Congress Center, Georgia Dome and Centennial Olympic Park, is proud to be one of the initial members of this green initiative.

The Zero Waste Zone of Downtown Atlanta is organized through a partnership between Atlanta Recycles and the Green Foodservice Alliance, and is working in conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4 and the Pollution Prevention Assistance division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

While the Georgia World Congress Center Authority has focused on many green efforts over the past 18 months, the convention center's latest initiative was launched this week . Levy Restaurants, the Authority's official foodservice operator, partnered with Washington, D.C.-based EnviRelations, LLC, a partner of Closed Loop Organics, to begin composting food items from the facilities for the next year.

Additionally, the Authority has a long standing partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank and donated over 30,000 lbs. of residual food from events to the organization in 2008.

"Our goal," said Kevin Duvall, assistant general manager of the Georgia World Congress Center, "is to adopt practices that meet the demands of our customers, attendees and staff. At the same time we want to reduce the impact that our 3.9 million square foot facility has on the landfill. During this process we've reminded ourselves that being ‘green' is a journey and not a destination. The Downtown Zero Waste Zone reinforces a lot of initiatives that we're already tackling and it is propelling us to move forward on new ones."

Media Contact: Christy Petterson, Public Relations Specialist, Georgia World Congress Center

Fernbank Museum of Natural History reveals the natural beauty seen within Stone Mountain's parks and nature trails in the new exhibition Scenic Stone Mountain: Photographs by Larry Winslett, on view from February 14 through May 17, 2009.

Scenic Stone Mountain features 51 color photographs taken by Winslett during 30 years of exploration of the mountain. The photographs reveal the personal and intimate connection Winslett feels with Stone Mountain.

The collection reveals much beyond the granite outcrop seen rising above the Atlanta skyline. From sunsets to blooming flowers, and from Native mortars to winter scenes reflected on Venable Lake, the exhibition offers many sights familiar to park regulars and some vistas that are unknown to all but a few. The majority of the photographs were taken throughout Stone Mountain's Natural District, which is accessible to visitors, but other photos showcase the restricted areas of the famous mountain, including the steep South slopes and quarries.

Scenic Stone Mountain: Photographs by Larry Winslett is on view at Fernbank Museum of Natural History from February 14 through May 17, 2009. The exhibition is included with Museum admission. Tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for students and seniors, $13 for children ages 3-12, and free for children ages 2 years old and younger and for Museum members.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History is located at 767 Clifton Road in Atlanta. Tickets are available by phone at 404.929.6400 or online at fernbankmuseum.org.

Press Inquiries: Brandi Berry, 404.929.6339, brandi.berry@fernbankmuseum.org