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Welcome to The Atlanta Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Troutman Pepper announces merger, forming massive US firm.

• A deep-dive into the life of Billy Sunday.

• Joey Logano wins NASCAR opener, advances to 2nd round.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore.” 

—Michele Ruiz

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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 Atlanta neighborhood, formerly an industrial area, now known for its art galleries, loft apartments, and a vibrant food hall?

A) The Westside Provisions District

B) Ponce City Market

C) Castleberry Hill

D) The Old Fourth Ward

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The popular Atlanta trail for cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts, extending from the city into the scenic Georgia countryside, is B) The Silver Comet Trail.

News

💼Business

Troutman Pepper announces merger to create massive US firm. (link)

Atlanta's skyline to turn orange as part of fight against hunger. (link)

🏒Sports

Joey Logano wins NASCAR playoff opener at Atlanta to advance to 2nd round. (link)

Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese out for the rest of the WNBA season due to a wrist injury. (link)

🏦Finance

Site Centers pays $30M for Brookhaven shopping center. (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. Los Angeles Dodgers
Truist Park, Atlanta, GA
Monday, Sep 16th | 7:20 PM | (More Info)

⚽ Atlanta United FC vs. Inter Miami CF
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Wednesday, Sep 18th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 The Buttertones
Terminal West, Atlanta, GA
Monday, Sep 16th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎵 Motherfolk
Vinyl, Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, Sep 17th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family Friendly

🐉 Collage Night
638 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta
Wednesday, Sep 18th | 7:00 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 “Atlanta with an elaborate network of rooftop gardens and patios” 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 Integration of Atlanta Police Department (1948): A significant civil rights milestone.

The integration of the Atlanta Police Department in 1948 marked a significant civil rights milestone not only for Atlanta but for the entire nation. The decision to desegregate the police force was a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice. Atlanta was among the first major Southern cities to take this step, ahead of many other municipalities in the Jim Crow South.

The integration of the Atlanta Police Department was a result of the persistent efforts of civil rights leaders and organizations, as well as the commitment of Atlanta's political leadership to address racial disparities and foster inclusivity. The move not only expanded opportunities for African Americans within the police force but also represented a symbolic step towards breaking down the institutional barriers of segregation and discrimination.

This historic event set an important precedent and served as a model for other cities in the South and across the United States to follow. It demonstrated that progress towards racial integration was possible, even in the face of significant challenges and resistance. The integration of the Atlanta Police Department became part of the broader civil rights movement, inspiring activists and communities to continue their fight for justice and equality.

Famous Atlantans

Billy Sunday - Influential evangelist.

Early Years and Baseball Career (1862-1886)

Billy Sunday was born into poverty in Iowa in 1862. Despite a challenging childhood, he found an escape and a talent in baseball, eventually playing for the Chicago White Stockings in the National League. His athleticism and charismatic personality made him a popular figure on and off the field, setting the stage for his later public life.

Conversion and Spiritual Awakening (1887-1891)

In 1887, Sunday experienced a profound spiritual conversion at the Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago. This event marked a dramatic shift in his life's direction, away from baseball and towards Christianity. He began to work for the YMCA, honing his skills as a speaker and developing a passion for evangelical work.

Early Ministry and Evangelistic Work (1892-1899)

Sunday left the YMCA to join the evangelistic team of J. Wilbur Chapman, a well-known Presbyterian evangelist. During this time, Sunday developed his distinctive style of preaching and his flair for dramatic public speaking, attracting large crowds with his messages of salvation and repentance.

Rise to National Prominence (1900-1910)

By the early 20th century, Billy Sunday had become one of the most influential evangelists in America. His revival meetings drew thousands of people, and his dynamic, theatrical style of preaching was both celebrated and criticized. Sunday's messages focused on the evils of alcohol, the importance of personal salvation, and the need for societal reform.

The Atlanta Campaign (1911-1915)

Sunday's 1917 revival campaign in Atlanta marked a significant moment in his career and in the city's history. His crusade attracted huge crowds, leading to thousands of conversions and making a lasting impact on the community. This event solidified Sunday's reputation as a powerful force in American evangelicalism and highlighted his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Prohibition Advocacy and Social Reform (1916-1920)

Sunday was a staunch supporter of Prohibition, using his influence to advocate for the temperance movement. His efforts contributed to the eventual ratification of the 18th Amendment in 1920. Sunday believed that alcohol was the root of many societal evils, and he campaigned vigorously for its eradication.

The Roaring Twenties and Challenges (1921-1930)

During the 1920s, Sunday continued his evangelistic crusades against a backdrop of rapid societal change. Despite facing criticism from both religious and secular quarters, he remained a popular figure, although his style and message began to clash with the emerging modernist views of the time.

Later Years and Legacy (1931-1935)

In his later years, Billy Sunday's health and popularity began to wane, but he continued to preach until his death in 1935. His legacy as an evangelist was marked by his passionate preaching, his role in the Prohibition movement, and his influence on American evangelical Christianity.

Posthumous Recognition (1936 and Beyond)

After his death, Billy Sunday was remembered as one of the most dynamic and influential evangelists of his time. His impact on American religious life and the Prohibition movement was significant, with his crusades and advocacy leaving a lasting mark on the country's history.

Billy Sunday's Impact on Evangelicalism and Society (Throughout His Lifetime and Posthumously)

Billy Sunday's career as an evangelist spanned crucial years in American history, including the Progressive Era, World War I, and the start of the Great Depression. He was a key figure in the rise of evangelical Christianity as a powerful social and moral force in the United States.

Key Achievements:

• Transitioned from a professional baseball player to one of the most influential evangelists in America.

• Played a significant role in the Prohibition movement, contributing to the passage of the 18th Amendment.

• Conducted revival campaigns across the country, including a notable campaign in Atlanta, leading to thousands of conversions.

• Influenced the direction of American evangelicalism with his dynamic preaching style and focus on personal salvation and societal reform.

Billy Sunday's life story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the impact one individual can have on society. From his humble beginnings and successful baseball career to becoming a leading figure in American evangelicalism, Sunday's legacy is characterized by his passionate preaching, advocacy for Prohibition, and influence on the moral and religious landscape of his time. His crusades and messages of salvation continue to be remembered as pivotal moments in the history of American Christianity.

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

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