{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"19. Alex Sams Tells The History Of His Family's Coca-Cola Bottling Company In Athens, Ga","description":"Coca-Cola Has Proud Athens History  This episode features Athens native Alex Sams, a real estate agent with 5Market Realty and recently moved to Berkshire Hathaway and who served as chair and a member of the Athens-Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission. He shares his family\u2019s deep roots in Athens, dating back to 1922 when his great-grandfather, Walter Sams, became involved in the local Coca-Cola bottling company. Under his leadership, the business expanded across the Southeast and played a key role in supporting the University of Georgia, including helping underwrite the original Sanford Stadium. Alex reflects on the evolution of the bottling industry\u2014from early innovations and marketing strategies to the growth of the Prince Avenue plant\u2014and discusses the company\u2019s 1985 sale to Coca-Cola Enterprises. He also offers insight into major moments in soda history, including the \u201ccola wars\u201d and the backlash to New Coke. Beyond business, Alex highlights his family\u2019s commitment to community, sharing stories of how they supported employees during the Great Depression. He also discusses his own work in historic preservation, continuing his grandfather\u2019s legacy through efforts involving landmarks like the Taylor-Grady House and other historic properties in Athens. The episode concludes with a personal note, as Alex shares updates about his wife, Eleanor, and their daughters\u2019 pursuits in the arts.   ","author_name":"Classic City Rewind with Lesley Platek","author_url":"https:\/\/sites.libsyn.com\/600495","html":"