On April 15, Terri Lee, president and CEO of Atlanta Housing, delivered a comprehensive update at the inaugural State of Atlanta Housing meeting held at the Gathering Spot.
“I’m ecstatic about this morning,” Lee expressed, emphasizing the significance of the event which featured an “open house” that showcased the housing authority’s commitment to those in need.
Lee highlighted Atlanta’s historical significance in housing, stating, “Atlanta has always been a city of firsts.” She noted that Techwood Homes was the nation’s first public housing project established in the mid-1930s.
Additionally, Lee pointed out that Atlanta developed the national Hope VI model, which transformed existing public housing projects into mixed-income, mixed-use communities. This initiative saw the redevelopment of Techwood Homes into what is now known as Centennial Place.
During the meeting, Lee also mentioned Mayor Andre Dickens’ ambitious goal to build or preserve 20,000 affordable housing units, remarking, “We are more than half-way there.” Dickens also commented on the challenges faced, stating, “It is difficult. Everyone outside the media knows how hard it is.”
In another significant development in Atlanta, city crews were busy digging up Peachtree Street on Wednesday, revealing traces of the city’s historical transportation infrastructure.
Much to the surprise of onlookers, the excavation uncovered two sets of streetcar tracks buried about a foot below the surface.
Located in front of the Bulldogs night spot between 7th and 8th streets, these tracks serve as a poignant reminder of Atlanta’s once extensive streetcar network that reached nearly every corner of the city.
The discovery underscores the city’s historical relationship with rail transit, which has since been largely abandoned or, in this case, buried.
In educational news, Oglethorpe University announced that Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS, will deliver the commencement address at its Spring graduation ceremony scheduled for May 3.
Kathryn McClymond, the president of Oglethorpe, expressed excitement for the upcoming event, highlighting its celebration of the university’s contribution to workforce development in Atlanta.
“The class of 2025 is a remarkable group of leaders in their own right now, and I know they will long remember the insights Carol Tomé will share with us from her illustrious career as a business leader at some of the world’s most successful companies,” McClymond stated.
Meanwhile, the DeKalb County School District announced that 18 of its 12th graders have been recognized as Georgia Scholars for the class of 2025 by the Georgia Department of Education.
The department selected a total of 145 exceptional students statewide, and these recipients will receive a special seal for their diploma along with a commemorative graduation cord.
Superintendent Devon Horton commended the honorees, saying, “These 18 young leaders have shown remarkable academic ability, dedication to their communities, and exemplary character throughout their high school journeys.
“They embody the best of DeKalb County, and we look forward to witnessing all the amazing achievements their futures hold.”
Further enhancing community investment, the Delta Air Lines Foundation recently pledged $16.5 million in charitable support for Clayton County over the next five years.
Last week, Delta Air Lines and its foundation announced that $13.5 million of the funds will be allocated to support various local organizations, including Clayton County Public Schools, Junior Achievement, the Discovery Center, and the Flint River Boys and Girls Club.
In addition, $3 million will fund the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce aimed at boosting investment in Aerotropolis to enhance the county’s economic competitiveness.
The foundation also intends to establish a Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation to support additional charities serving Clayton County.
Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock remarked, “The children of Clayton County are our best and brightest, and investing in their future is in our enlightened self-interest.”
The Delta Air Lines Foundation has a history of significant charitable contributions, having committed over $33 million to support Clayton County in the past six years.
In collaboration with the Delta Flight Museum, students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) have designed an original digital mural during renovations at the museum.
Reopening last week, the museum now features the mural titled “Keep Climbing,” celebrating Delta’s 100th anniversary.
The mural was created using Adobe Illustrator and includes an interactive component where visitors can align the letter on their ticket with the mural for a photo opportunity.
Mural artist Jennifer Wee, a SCAD student, explained, “The mural combines Delta’s history and future through modern, abstract design.
“The large-scale design allows viewing from multiple distances. I wanted to make sure that viewers could enjoy this mural both from afar and up close.”
In higher education developments, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) voted on April 4 to consolidate East Georgia State College with Georgia Southern University.
The board believes that this consolidation is aligned with its guiding principles, which include raising educational attainment levels, improving accessibility, fostering regional identity and compatibility, and streamlining administrative services while maintaining or improving the quality of service provided.
Chancellor Sonny Perdue commented on the consolidation, stating, “The consolidation increases our ability to improve student success while expanding access to high-skilled degree programs that attract industry and help the state thrive.”
The final board approval of this consolidation is expected to be decided by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Schools.
In cultural events, the City Springs Theatre Company will close its 2024/25 season with the performance of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” scheduled to run from May 2 to 18 at the Byers Theatre within the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center.
This Tony-nominated musical narrates the rise of Carole King from a teenage songwriter to a music icon, featuring beloved classics such as “I Feel the Earth Move,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” and “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling.”
Megan Hill, an Atlanta native, will star in the title role after previously performing in CSTC’s productions of Frozen and Ragtime.
“Megan is an electric performer,” said Executive Director Natalie DeLancey, sharing her excitement for Hill’s involvement in this production.
The performances will take place at various times from May 2 to 18, with ticket prices ranging from $64 to $115. Discount options are available for seniors, students, groups, and military personnel.
Tickets and additional information can be accessed online or by calling 404-477-4365.
It’s important to note that the musical contains adult themes and is recommended for audiences aged 13 and older.
Additionally, the City of South Fulton, under the leadership of District Three Councilwoman Helen Zenobia Willis, is inviting community members to participate in the 13th Annual Stop the Violence Rally set for April 27 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Welcome All Park.
The event focuses on reducing crime and gun violence while promoting community safety.
Councilwoman Willis stated, “South Fulton is a community that stands united in the fight for safety and justice.
“The Stop the Violence Rally symbolizes our collective effort to create lasting change and healing in our community.”
Attendees can expect to engage with a variety of resources, including crime prevention, mental health support, job opportunities, de-escalation strategies, and youth-centered activities aimed at fostering long-term community healing and safety.
This initiative has garnered strong support from local partners, including the City of South Fulton Police Department, Fire and Rescue, Parks and Recreation, the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, and the Office of the Fulton County Solicitor-General.
Lastly, Cabbagetown is set to host its second annual Bake Sale on April 19, 2025.
This year’s fundraiser aims to support the Joyce Brookshire Memorial Amphitheatre and promote community arts and culture.
Attendees can anticipate a lively atmosphere featuring an artist’s market, live music, and the highly entertaining “Cupcake Death Match” at Cabbagetown Hall.
Bakers interested in participating can sign up, and there are also volunteer opportunities available.
For those who wish to attend, further information is accessible through the event’s official channels.
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