Welcome to The Atlanta Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Atlanta planning to host opening race of 2024 NASCAR Cup Series

• A deep-dive into the life of John Pemberton

• Atlanta Hawks game recap

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

-Henry Ford

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, located in Atlanta?

A) Shedd Aquarium

B) Monterey Bay Aquarium

C) Georgia Aquarium

D) SeaWorld Orlando

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Atlanta museum dedicated to the work and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. is D) The King Center.

News

💼 Business

Small business owners in Atlanta are optimistic about 2024, with many seeking grants to support growth amid fading recession worries​ (link)

The Atlanta Business Chronicle offers a comprehensive list of small business grants, loans, and assistance programs available throughout 2024​ (link)

​Private jet firm Wheels Up is relocating its headquarters to Atlanta as part of its restructuring efforts​ (link)

Scandinavian Airlines announces the launch of flights to Atlanta, expanding the city's connectivity with Europe​ (link)

🏒 Sports

Atlanta Hawks faced the Los Angeles Clippers in a high-scoring NBA game, with the Clippers winning 149-144, capping a successful road trip​ (link)

​Atlanta United announced its 2024 preseason schedule, including matches against various teams leading up to the regular MLS season​ (link)

​The city will host the opening race of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs with the Quaker State 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on September 8​ (link)

​Atlanta also anticipates a spring weekend of NASCAR events, including the Fr8 208 and the RAPTOR King of Tough 250 on February 24 (link)

🏦 Finance

UPS plans to cut 12,000 jobs as both revenue and profit saw a decline in 2023​ (link)

Home Depot has made unspecified job cuts in undisclosed locations as part of its operational adjustments​ (link)

​Norfolk Southern's cleanup of the Ohio train wreck continues one year later, amidst job cuts and ongoing challenges​ (link)

​The Georgia economy had a strong performance in 2023 but experienced a mixed finish, reflecting broader economic trends (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls
State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Monday, Feb. 12th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🏀 College Park SkyHawks vs. Birmingham Squadron
Gateway Center Arena at College Park, Atlanta, GA
Thursday, Feb. 15th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵  Squirrel Flower with Greg Mendez 
Purgatory Stage at Masquerade GA
Monday, Feb. 12th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤  Jamila Woods with Madison McFerrin 
Terminal West, Atlanta
Tuesday Feb. 13th | (More Info)

🎸 Squirrel Flower with Greg Mendez
The Masquerade - Purgatory, Atlanta, GA
Monday, Feb. 12th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🤘 Caligula's Horse
Hell at The Masquerade, Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, Feb. 13th | 6:30​ PM | (More Info)

Family Friendly

🦖 Jurassic World Live Tour
State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Friday, Feb. 16th | 7:00 PM
Saturday, Feb. 17th | 11:00 AM | (More Info)

🎨 Contemporary Kids at Atlanta Contemporary
Atlanta Contemporary, Atlanta, GA
Sunday, Feb. 18th | 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM | (More Info)

🏔️ License to Chill Snow Island
Margaritaville at Lake Lanier Islands, Buford
February 12 - 18 | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Atlanta skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Atlanta Historical Events

Atlanta in the Civil War (1861-1865): A strategic supply center for the Confederacy.

During the Civil War from 1861 to 1865, Atlanta emerged as a pivotal city for the Confederacy, primarily due to its strategic position as a transportation and logistics hub. The city's extensive rail network, which had fueled its growth in previous decades, now made it an indispensable center for the movement of troops, weapons, and supplies. Atlanta's factories and warehouses were repurposed to meet the needs of the Confederate army, producing everything from munitions to military uniforms. This industrial and logistical capability made the city a linchpin in the Confederacy's war effort, often referred to as the ""heart of the Confederacy.

However, Atlanta's significance also made it a prime target for Union forces. As the war progressed, it became clear that capturing or crippling Atlanta would deal a severe blow to the Confederate war machine. In the summer of 1864, Union General William T. Sherman embarked on his Atlanta Campaign, a series of battles and maneuvers aimed at seizing the city. The Atlanta Campaign was marked by intense fighting, with significant battles like the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain underscoring the city's strategic importance.

The fall of Atlanta in September 1864 was a critical turning point in the Civil War. After a prolonged siege, Union forces captured the city, and General Sherman ordered the destruction of its railroads, factories, and warehouses to cripple the Confederacy's ability to wage war. This event, famously known as the Burning of Atlanta, marked the beginning of Sherman's March to the Sea, a campaign that further devastated the Confederacy's resources and morale. The loss of Atlanta was a significant blow to the Confederate cause and is often cited as a key factor in the eventual Union victory.

Famous Atlantans

John Pemberton (1831–1888)

Early Life and Pharmaceutical Beginnings (1831-1850)

John Pemberton was born in 1831 in Knoxville, Georgia. He showed an early interest in medicine and chemistry, leading him to pursue a career in pharmacy. Pemberton's foundational years were characterized by a keen focus on the study of medicinal properties of plants and compounds, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

Civil War Service and Medical Practice (1851-1865)

Pemberton served as a lieutenant colonel in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, where he sustained a serious wound. After the war, he continued his work as a pharmacist in Columbus, Georgia, where he developed a reputation for his medicinal preparations and innovative remedies.

Move to Atlanta and Continued Innovation (1866-1885)

After the war, Pemberton moved to Atlanta, where he established a laboratory and continued his work as a pharmacist. He became a well-known figure in the local medical community, respected for his knowledge and innovative approach to medicine.

Development of French Wine Coca (1886)

In the mid-1880s, Pemberton created a medicinal beverage called "French Wine Coca," inspired by Vin Mariani, a popular French tonic. Pemberton's drink combined coca leaves, caffeine, and wine, and was marketed as a cure for various ailments, including nervous disorders and indigestion.

Creation of Coca-Cola and Early Marketing (1886)

When Atlanta enacted prohibition legislation in 1886, Pemberton responded by developing a non-alcoholic version of French Wine Coca. He named the new beverage "Coca-Cola" and marketed it as a temperance drink and intellectual beverage. Pemberton's unique syrup, combined with carbonated water, quickly gained popularity in Atlanta.

Expansion and Early Business Challenges (1887-1888)

Pemberton faced several business challenges in marketing and production as demand for Coca-Cola grew. He formed partnerships and worked on refining the beverage's formula and marketing strategy, laying the groundwork for Coca-Cola's future success.

Health Decline and Transfer of Business Interests (1888)

In his final years, Pemberton's health began to decline, partially due to complications from his war wound and addiction to morphine. Recognizing his deteriorating condition, he began selling portions of his business to various parties, including Asa Candler, who would later consolidate ownership and play a crucial role in Coca-Cola's growth.

Death and Legacy in Beverage Industry (1888)

John Pemberton passed away in 1888. Although he did not live to see the global success of Coca-Cola, his invention laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's most iconic brands. His innovative spirit and contributions to the beverage industry were pivotal in shaping the future of soft drinks.

Key Achievements:

• Invented Coca-Cola, one of the most recognizable and successful beverages in the world.

• Pioneered methods in medicinal preparations and the beverage industry.

• His creation of Coca-Cola marked a significant innovation in the soft drink market, combining unique flavors and marketing strategies.

John Pemberton's journey from a local pharmacist to the inventor of Coca-Cola is a testament to his innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and enduring impact on the beverage industry. His creation of Coca-Cola, initially a medicinal tonic, transformed into a cultural and commercial phenomenon, illustrating the power of ingenuity and the lasting influence of a simple yet revolutionary idea. Pemberton's legacy continues to be celebrated in Atlanta and around the world, as Coca-Cola remains a symbol of refreshment and global connection.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

Poll