Known for taking the utterly ridiculous (ludicrous) and making it hot, Christopher Bridges (aka, Luda) has found a way to parlay his creativity, interests, drive, and passion into something Ludacris.

Charity Begins @ Home
Earlier this year, Bridges teamed up with San Francisco based chef, Chris Yeo to establish an Eastern themed restaurant in Midtown Atlanta. In addition to opening Straits Atlanta, on April 24, the entertainer, businessman, and philanthropist also co-hosted the second annual evening of cocktails and private shopping for The Ludacris Foundation (TLF). The event was held in the Ralph Lauren store at Atlanta's upscale shopper's delight, Lenox Mall.

As unsuspecting shoppers looked on, celebs, industry notables, friends and foundation executives hobnobbed on the Ralph Lauren themed blue carpet before entering the newly relocated designer store. In addition to personalized shopping, attendees were treated to a live performance, some bubbly, chocolate treats, and hor d'oeuvres. Between posing for pics and an occasional autograph, Bridges, who resides in Atlanta, was very amiable and spent quality time interacting with guests.
Fifteen percent of all sales from the evening benefit The Ludacris Foundation.

Founded in 2001, TLF reflects a strong commitment to the well being of today's youth. The foundation supports a variety of "innovative projects that not only educate young people, but also demonstrate meaningful, effective practices, and a strong connection to the community." Through six programs, youth develop the same groundwork Bridges established to achieve his dreams. To date, the foundation has impacted more than 7,000 lives.

"The Ludacris Foundation takes pride in 'helping youth help themselves,'" says TLF president, Roberta Shields.

A Strait Shot
Previously the home of Spice where television chef, Marvin Woods was head, Straits reflects Bridges' willingness to take risks as well as expand his horizon. Despite several attempts to maintain its status as a Midtown staple, Spice folded. Not long afterwards, Bridges acquired the property and spent $1 million to renovate it. Being able to make Straits a familiar place for locals is a challenge eased by the fact that Chef Yeo is the best in the business. Certainly, Bridges' track-record as a risk taker plays a part as does the proven success of his peers.

Although not the first Hip-Hop artist to open a restaurant (Sean "Diddy" Combs and Jermaine Dupri both have restaurants in Buckhead, Atlanta), Bridges appreciates having a path paved for him. "Diddy and JD's restaurants really have nothing to do with what I am doing, but the fact that they are major players and have successful restaurants may have been an encouragement or paved the way for an individual such as myself. I thank them for that," Bridges said.

Some may think that opening a restaurant and throwing a shopping-based fundraiser the same day is a bit extreme for a rapper turned actor, etc. As the crowd outside Ralph Lauren thinned and guests meandered to their cars, it was easy to see how Bridges' accomplishments: music, record label, acting, entrepreneurship, and his desire to give back often to young people are far from ludicrous. Thinking deeper, one realizes that no matter what Bridges aspires to be or accomplish, it's all just absolutely Ludacris.

For more on the TLF, visit: www.theludacrisfoundation.org. For more on Straits Atlanta, visit: www.straitsrestaurants.com.