Welcome to The Atlanta Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• United Bankshares to Buy Piedmont for $267M.

• Upcoming Atlanta Dream game.

• Falcons Fund Girls' Flag Football at 42 Schools.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

- Socrates

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 annual Atlanta film festival that showcases independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films?

A) The Atlanta Film Festival

B) The Peachtree Film Festival

C) The Atlanta Independent Film Festival

D) The Midtown Cinema Fest

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Atlanta park known for its scenic lake, a historic bandstand, and hosting the annual "Screen on the Green" movie series is A) Piedmont Park.

News

💼 Business

United Bankshares to Acquire Piedmont Bancorp in $267 Million Deal. (link)

Atlanta Business Owner Scotty ATL Seriously Injured While Fixing Flat Tire on I-75. (link)

Woman's Quick Thinking Leads to Husband's Life-Saving Doctor Appointment. (link)

Scammer swipes $1M from metro Atlanta business owner by posing as her bank. (link)

🏒 Sports

Atlanta Falcons Announce Grants for 42 High Schools to Launch Girls' Flag Football Programs. (link)

Former Laker Dwight Howard Meets Kirk Cousins at Avalon Shops in Alpharetta, Discovers They're Neighbors. (link)

Atlanta Hawks Secure First Pick in 2024 NBA Draft After Winning Lottery with 3% Odds. (link)

Boys at Northwest Atlanta Academy Learn Polo, Favorite Sport of the Future King of England. (link)

🏦 Finance

Atlanta Housing's James Allen Jr. Place Wins NALHFA Redevelopment Award of Excellence. (link)

Atlanta Braves Holdings Reports First Quarter 2024 Financial Results. (link)

Metro Atlanta small business owner worries how much longer USPS delays will affect customers. (link)

Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Announces $55 Million Available Through 2024 Affordable Housing Program. (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 Braves vs. San Diego Padres
Truist Park, Atlanta, GA
Monday, May 20th | 12:20 PM | (More Info)

🏀Atlanta Dream vs. Dallas Wings
Gateway Center Arena, College Park, GA
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

⚾ Rome Emperors vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks
AdventHealth Stadium, Rome, GA
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

⚾ Gwinnett Stripers vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
Coolray Field, Lawrenceville, GA
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:05 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵  Young Medicine / Danny Blu
The Masquerade - Purgatory, Atlanta, GA
Monday, May 20th | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 Texas Hippie Coalition
The Masquerade - Hell , Atlanta
Monday, May 20th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎸 Phosphorescent
Terminal West, Atlanta, GA
Monday, May 20th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎵  Sawyer Hill
The Loft, Atlanta, GA
Monday, May 20th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family Friendly

🎪 UniverSoul Circus
Universoul Circus - Atlantic Station - Pinnacle Lot, Atlanta, GA
Wednesday, May 22nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Mahler's Titan Symphony - Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra
Gas South Theater, Duluth, GA
Monday, May 20th | 7:30 PM | (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 “Futuristic sports arena in Atlanta hosting a new, invented sport” 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

The Establishment of the Peachtree Road Race (1970): An Atlanta July 4th tradition and one of the world's largest 10K races.

The establishment of the Peachtree Road Race in 1970 marked the birth of a beloved Atlanta tradition and one of the world's largest 10K races. Founded by a small group of passionate runners, including Tim Singleton and Jeff Galloway, the race was conceived as a way to promote fitness and celebrate Independence Day. Over the years, the Peachtree Road Race has grown exponentially in both size and significance, becoming an integral part of Atlanta's cultural fabric.

Held annually on July 4th, the Peachtree Road Race attracts participants from all over the world who come to experience the thrill of running or walking through the heart of Atlanta. The race's scenic route takes participants down the iconic Peachtree Street, showcasing some of the city's most notable landmarks. With its festive atmosphere and commitment to promoting healthy living, the Peachtree Road Race has fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among its participants and has become a cherished tradition for generations of Atlanta residents.

Beyond the athletic challenge, the Peachtree Road Race has played a vital role in promoting fitness and well-being in the Atlanta community. It has also given back to the city through charitable initiatives and contributions to local nonprofits. As it continues to grow in size and prestige, the Peachtree Road Race remains a shining example of how a simple idea and a passionate group of individuals can create a lasting and meaningful tradition that brings people together in celebration of both athleticism and community spirit.

Famous Atlantans

Andrew Young - Civil rights activist, politician, and diplomat.

Early Life and Education (1932-1955)

Andrew Young was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1932. Growing up in a segregated society, he was deeply influenced by his parents' strong ethical and moral beliefs. Young pursued his education at Dillard University and later at Howard University, before attending Hartford Seminary, where he received a divinity degree. His early life set the foundation for his commitment to civil rights and social justice.

Involvement in the Civil Rights Movement (1955-1964)

After becoming an ordained minister, Young became actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and became a close advisor to Martin Luther King Jr. During this time, Young played a critical role in organizing major civil rights campaigns, including the Birmingham campaign and the Selma to Montgomery marches.

Political Career in Congress (1973-1977)

Young transitioned into politics, becoming the first African American from Georgia to be elected to Congress since Reconstruction, serving from 1973 to 1977. In Congress, he advocated for policies to promote civil rights, social justice, and economic development, showcasing his dedication to the principles of equality and democracy.

Ambassador to the United Nations (1977-1979)

Appointed by President Jimmy Carter, Young served as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations. In this role, he focused on human rights and worked to improve U.S. relations with developing countries, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and international cooperation in addressing global challenges.

Mayor of Atlanta (1982-1990)

Andrew Young's deep connection to Atlanta was cemented during his two terms as mayor from 1982 to 1990. His leadership transformed the city into an international business and cultural hub, significantly contributing to its economic development and enhancing its reputation on the global stage.

Advocacy for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games

One of Young's most notable achievements as mayor was his advocacy for Atlanta as the host city for the 1996 Olympic Games. His efforts were instrumental in bringing the Games to Atlanta, which served as a catalyst for further economic growth and international recognition for the city.

Continued Work in International Affairs and Civil Rights

After leaving office, Young continued his work in international affairs and civil rights. He founded the Andrew Young Foundation, which focuses on supporting education, leadership, and human rights in the United States and abroad. Young has also served on various boards and commissions dedicated to promoting peace, health, and development.

Contributions to Education and the Arts

Throughout his career, Young has been a strong advocate for education and the arts. He has been involved in numerous educational initiatives and has supported arts programs in Atlanta and beyond, recognizing the critical role of culture in society.

Legacy and Honors

Andrew Young's contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Civil Rights Museum's Freedom Award. His legacy is evident in the impact of his civil rights activism, his leadership in local and international politics, and his ongoing commitment to social justice.

Key Achievements

• Played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement as a close advisor to Martin Luther King Jr.

• Served as a U.S. Congressman, U.N. Ambassador, and two-term Mayor of Atlanta.

• Instrumental in bringing the 1996 Olympic Games to Atlanta, contributing to the city's international stature and economic development.

Andrew Young's life and career are marked by his profound impact on civil rights, politics, and diplomacy. His work as a close advisor to Martin Luther King Jr., combined with his achievements in public service as a Congressman, U.N. Ambassador, and Mayor of Atlanta, reflect his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. Young's legacy, particularly in Atlanta, continues to influence current and future generations, embodying the essence of leadership and dedication to the betterment of society.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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

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