Welcome to The Atlanta Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets game

• A deep-dive into the life of Julian Bond

• Georgia's Qcells announce a partnership

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

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 historic Atlanta theater that is a landmark of the city and a premier venue for live performances?

A) The Tabernacle

B) The Buckhead Theatre

C) The Fox Theatre

D) The Alliance Theatre

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Atlanta neighborhood known for its vibrant street art and the location of the annual "Inman Park Festival" is C) Inman Park.

News

💼 Business

Georgia's Qcells announced a partnership focused on recycling solar panels, signaling a step towards sustainable energy solutions​​. (link)

Atlanta sought public input on strategies to attract more fresh grocery options to the city, addressing food deserts and improving access to healthy food​​. (link)

Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines will have new international routes starting May 31st. (link)

🏒 Sports

Ronald Acuña Jr. expresses his desire to be a "Brave for life" at Spring Training, highlighting his commitment to the Atlanta Braves​​. (link)

The Atlanta Braves focus on a World Series title, with Spencer Strider emphasizing the team's ambition and readiness for the postseason​​. (link)

Hurston Waldrep, a top 100 prospect, looks forward to a standout Spring Training, aiming for a breakthrough performance with the Braves​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

The Centennial Yards project, a $5 billion development transforming 50 acres in Downtown Atlanta, reported enormous demand from retailers. (link)

Atlanta's Federal Reserve Bank President comments on potential interest rate adjustments. (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

🏀 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. Florida State Seminoles
McCamish Pavilion, Atlanta
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | 12:00 PM (More info)

🏀 College Park Skyhawks vs. G League Ignite
Gateway Center Arena At College Park, Atlanta
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 7:00 PM  (More info)

🏒 Atlanta Gladiators vs. Greenville Swamp Rabbits
Gas South Arena
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 3:00 PM  (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 JP Saxe with Justin Nozuka
Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | 8:00 PM  (More info)

🎵 Qveen Herby
Terminal West, Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | 8:00 PM  (More info)

🎸 Ash
Terminal West, Atlanta, GA
Wednesday, Feb. 28th | 8:00 PM  (More info)

🔥 Hockey Dad
The Masquerade - Purgatory, Atlanta, GA
Wednesday, Feb. 28th | 7:00 PM  (More info)

Family Friendly

🌸 Orchid Daze at The Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta, GA
Beginning at 9:00 AM | (More info)

📚 VaHi Kids Storytime
Virginia Highland Books, Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | 10:30 AM | (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 within a giant biodome” 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

Reconstruction Era (Late 1860s)

The Reconstruction Era in Atlanta, during the late 1860s, marked a crucial chapter in the city's history as it embarked on the arduous journey of recovery following the devastating impact of the Civil War. Prior to the war, Atlanta had served as a critical transportation and supply center for the Confederacy, making it a prime target for General William T. Sherman's forces. The infamous Battle of Atlanta and Sherman's subsequent March to the Sea left the city in ruins, with much of its infrastructure destroyed and its population severely affected.

During the Reconstruction Era, Atlanta's residents, both black and white, faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and their city. The process of reconstruction involved not only physical reconstruction but also political and social changes. African Americans gained new rights and opportunities, including the right to vote and hold office, which led to the election of the city's first black aldermen and a greater representation of the African American community in local government. These efforts laid the foundation for the city's future growth and development, making Atlanta a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.

In retrospect, the Reconstruction Era in Atlanta exemplifies the city's determination to rise from the ashes of war and build a brighter, more inclusive future. It set the stage for Atlanta's emergence as a prominent economic, cultural, and political hub in the South, where the legacies of both the Civil War and Reconstruction continue to shape its identity and growth.

Famous Atlantans

Julian Bond - (1940-2015)

Early Life and Education (1940-1957)

Julian Bond was born Horace Julian Bond in Nashville, Tennessee, to a family deeply involved in civil rights and education. His father, Horace Mann Bond, was a prominent educator, and his mother, Julia Washington Bond, was a librarian. Julian grew up in a household that valued education and civil rights activism. He attended the George School, a co-educational Quaker boarding school in Pennsylvania, where he first became exposed to the principles of nonviolent protest. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future in civil rights activism.

Founding the SNCC and Early Activism (1960-1965)

While a student at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, Julian Bond co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960. This organization played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, focusing on black voting rights and community organization in the South. Bond's leadership and communication skills were instrumental in the SNCC's early successes, including the famous sit-ins and freedom rides that challenged segregation across the American South.

Political Career in Georgia (1965-1986)

Bond's foray into politics began in 1965 when he was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives. However, due to his opposition to the Vietnam War and his affiliation with SNCC, his seat was initially refused. It took a Supreme Court ruling in 1966 to allow him to take his seat. Bond served in the Georgia House and later in the Georgia Senate, where he was a vocal advocate for civil rights, education, and environmental issues. His tenure in the Georgia legislature was marked by his commitment to social justice and equality.

Connection to Atlanta and Civil Rights Leadership

Julian Bond's connection to Atlanta was significant throughout his life. Atlanta, being the cradle of the civil rights movement, was where Bond attended college, co-founded the SNCC, and began his political career. His work in Atlanta included advocating for the city's African American community, teaching at several universities, and contributing to Atlanta's status as a center for black political power and cultural life.

NAACP Chairmanship and Later Activism (1998-2010)

In 1998, Julian Bond was elected as the chairman of the NAACP, a position he held until 2010. During his tenure, Bond focused on strengthening the association's finances, raising public awareness of racial disparities, and advocating for equal rights across the United States. His leadership came at a crucial time, addressing issues such as racial profiling, the expansion of the death penalty, and voting rights.

Teaching and Academic Contributions

Beyond his activism and political career, Julian Bond was also a distinguished educator. He taught at several universities, including the University of Virginia and American University, focusing on the history of the civil rights movement and the politics of race in America. His academic work helped educate new generations about the struggles and achievements of the civil rights era.

Media Presence and Public Speaking

Julian Bond was a charismatic speaker and made frequent appearances on television and radio to discuss civil rights and social justice issues. He narrated documentaries, wrote articles, and gave interviews that brought attention to ongoing racial injustices and the importance of continued activism.

Legacy and Awards

Julian Bond's legacy is marked by his lifetime of civil rights activism, political leadership, and education. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions, including the NAACP's Spingarn Medal. His work has left an indelible mark on American society, inspiring countless individuals to engage in the fight for justice and equality.

Personal Life and Passing

Julian Bond married Alice Clopton, a student at Spelman College, in 1961, and they had five children together. He later married Pamela Horowitz, a civil rights lawyer. Bond continued his activism and public speaking engagements until his death in 2015. His passing was mourned by many who saw him as a tireless advocate for civil rights and an inspirational leader.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founder of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

• Served in the Georgia House of Representatives and the Georgia Senate, advocating for civil rights, education, and environmental issues.

• Chairman of the NAACP from 1998 to 2010, focusing on combating racial disparities and advocating for equal rights.

• Educated new generations on civil rights as a professor at the University of Virginia and American University.

• Received numerous awards for his contributions to civil rights, including the NAACP's Spingarn Medal.

Julian Bond was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, seamlessly blending activism, politics, and education to fight for equality and justice in America. His leadership in the SNCC and the NAACP, coupled with his tenure in the Georgia legislature, showcased his dedication to civil rights. Bond's work, especially in Atlanta, solidified his legacy as a champion of social justice, leaving a lasting impact on the fight for civil rights in America.

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-Matthew Larsen

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