The Press: In Atlanta

Atlanta had two important matters to think about last week. One, of course, was Golfer Bobby Jones practicing at St. Andrew’s, Scotland, to defend his British open championship. When Mr. Jones was reported as having ticked off a practice round in 68, Atlanta’s mind was easier on this score. The other matter was the sale of the Atlanta Constitution, premier of Southern dailies. The ownership was announced as having passed from the Clark Howells, father & son, of Atlanta, to Colonel Luke Lea* and Rogers Caldwell, two Nashville, Tenn., gentlemen who published there the Tennesseean and who lately reached out to Memphis, to acquire the potent Commercial Appeal and Evening Journal. Having the Constitution owned by outsiders did not appeal strongly to Atlantans, than whom no people of the South are more filled with “booster spirit” (civic pride). But the news was mitigated by a notice that the Clark Howells, Sr. & Jr., would continue as publisher-editor and business manager respectively. This arrangement was part of the terms of sale. Atlanta was thus assured of its same old Constitution until the two Clarks shall cease their Howelling or, less conceivable, until the new owners cease to be Southern gentlemen.

*EIected to the U. S. Senate in 1911 when in his 30’s, he served for one term (1911-17), gained the nickname “Young Thunderbolt” because he was dynamic.