Welcome to The Atlanta Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Savage Pizza plans three-location expansion.

• A deep-dive into the life of Henry McNeal Turner.

• Ravens' O-line coach D'Alessandris dies at 70.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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!

Which Atlanta university, known for its business and law programs, has a campus with distinctive Gothic architecture and a notable Quad?

A) Emory University

B) Georgia State University

C) Georgia Institute of Technology

D) Oglethorpe University

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The name of the Atlanta historic landmark and theater, dating back to 1929, and originally a Moorish-style movie palace is A) The Fox Theatre.

News

💼 Business

Savage Pizza to add three locations; first big expansion in years. (link)

Metro Atlanta home supply rises for eighth consecutive month. (link)

🏒 Sports

Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris dead at 70. (link)

Babe Ruth jersey sells at auction for over $24 million. (link)

🏦 Finance

Atlanta officials set aside nearly $1M for longtime businesses. (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 State Panthers Football vs. University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Football
Center Parc Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Saturday, Sep 7th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏈 Atlanta Falcons vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Sunday, Sep 8th | 1:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Coal Chamber
The Eastern-GA, Atlanta, GA
Thursday, Sep 5th | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 Ghost-Note
Vinyl, Atlanta, GA
Thursday, Sep 5th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family Friendly

🎭 Kids N' Crafts
638 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta,, GA
Saturday, Sep 7th | 2:00 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 where every building is equipped with solar and wind power” 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 Opening of Underground Atlanta (1969): A historic shopping and entertainment district.

The opening of Underground Atlanta in 1969 was a historic moment that transformed a forgotten part of the city into a vibrant shopping and entertainment district. Located beneath the streets of downtown Atlanta, Underground Atlanta was originally a series of historic storefronts and underground passages that had fallen into disuse over the years. However, with the vision of developer R.L. Thornton and Mayor Ivan Allen Jr., the area was revitalized and repurposed to create a unique and lively destination.

Underground Atlanta quickly became a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The district's cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, restaurants, and live music venues offered a distinctive and engaging experience. Underground Atlanta played a significant role in the city's cultural scene, hosting various events and festivals, and contributing to Atlanta's reputation as a dynamic and diverse urban center.

While Underground Atlanta has experienced periods of change and redevelopment over the years, it remains an iconic part of the city's history and identity. Its revival in 1969 served as a testament to Atlanta's commitment to preserving its historical landmarks while embracing modernization, and it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who have experienced its unique blend of history and entertainment.

Famous Atlantans

Henry McNeal Turner - Bishop and politician, early advocate for African American rights.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening (1834-1853)

Henry McNeal Turner was born in 1834 in Newberry, South Carolina, to free African American parents. From a young age, Turner felt a profound spiritual calling, which led him to the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Despite the limitations placed on African Americans in the antebellum South, Turner's early involvement in the church set the stage for his lifelong commitment to spiritual leadership and social justice.

The Path to Ministry (1854-1862)

In the years leading up to the Civil War, Turner honed his skills as a preacher and became a licensed minister in the AME Church. His dynamic oratory and deep conviction quickly made him a prominent figure in the African American religious community. Turner's ministry during this period emphasized spiritual empowerment and the fight against slavery, laying the groundwork for his future activism.

Civil War and Chaplaincy (1863-1865)

During the Civil War, Turner took an active role in supporting the Union cause, recognizing the conflict as a pivotal moment for African American freedom. He was appointed as the first African American chaplain in the United States Army, serving with distinction and providing both spiritual and moral support to black soldiers fighting for their liberation.

Political Career and Reconstruction (1866-1871)

After the war, Turner emerged as a leading voice in the Reconstruction era, advocating for the rights and political representation of newly freed African Americans. He was elected to the Georgia State Legislature, where he fought tirelessly for equality, education, and civil rights. However, Turner and other African American legislators were unjustly expelled from their seats, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Bishopric and AME Leadership (1872-1880)

Turner's influence extended beyond politics into religious leadership. In 1876, he was consecrated as a bishop of the AME Church, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold such a high position. As a bishop, Turner focused on expanding the church's reach, both nationally and internationally, emphasizing the AME Church's role in uplifting African Americans spiritually and socially.

Advocacy for African American Emigration (1881-1895)

Disillusioned by the setbacks of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow laws, Turner became a vocal advocate for African American emigration to Africa. He saw emigration as a way for African Americans to escape oppression and build a new life of dignity. Turner's advocacy for Africa not only highlighted his commitment to black autonomy but also connected him with broader Pan-Africanist movements.

Connection to Atlanta and the South (1896-1900)

Turner's connection to Atlanta was marked by his leadership in establishing and strengthening AME churches throughout the city and the South. Atlanta became a central hub for his advocacy, where he worked to improve educational opportunities for African Americans and fought against racial discrimination. His efforts in Atlanta reflected his broader mission to empower the African American community.

Later Years and Continued Activism (1901-1910)

In his later years, Turner continued to be an active figure in both the religious and political spheres, using his position to advocate for racial equality and the rights of African Americans. He remained a passionate orator, writer, and leader, inspiring others with his vision for a world free of racial oppression. Turner's enduring commitment to justice and equality marked his final years as a period of ongoing activism.

Legacy and Death (1911-1915)

Henry McNeal Turner passed away in 1915, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering advocate for African American rights and a leader in the AME Church. His life's work as a politician, preacher, and advocate had a profound impact on the fight for civil rights and the development of the African American religious community.

Posthumous Recognition (1916 and Beyond)

After his death, Turner's contributions to civil rights and the AME Church continued to be celebrated. His advocacy for African American emigration, empowerment, and equality paved the way for future generations of civil rights activists. Turner is remembered as a trailblazer in the struggle for justice and a seminal figure in American history.

Key Achievements:

• Served as the first African American chaplain in the United States Army.

• Elected to the Georgia State Legislature during Reconstruction, advocating for civil rights and education.

• Became one of the first African American bishops in the AME Church, expanding its influence.

• Advocated for African American emigration to Africa, contributing to early Pan-Africanist thought.

• Played a pivotal role in the religious and social life of Atlanta, promoting education and fighting against racial discrimination.

Henry McNeal Turner was a visionary leader whose life bridged the worlds of religion, politics, and social activism. As a pioneering African American bishop, legislator, and advocate for civil rights, Turner's contributions laid important groundwork for the civil rights movements that followed. His legacy, particularly in Atlanta and the broader African American community, continues to inspire efforts toward equality and justice.

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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