Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Chicago Bears’ new focus on youth sports and education programs

• Upcoming Blackhawks home games

• A deep dive into the life of Muddy Waters

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

-Matt Haig

Chicago 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!

The Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) held the title of the world’s tallest building for many years. What unique architectural feature contributes to its stability and made such a height achievable?

A) Bundled Tube System

B) Tapered Structure Design

C) Triangulated Exoskeleton

D) Central Core Support

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Ulta Beauty, headquartered in the Chicago suburb of Bolingbrook, announced significant expansion plans in the Chicago area following their impressive third-quarter financial performance. The company's robust earnings led to a 10.8% increase in stock value, signaling investor confidence. This expansion is set to bring new jobs and economic activity to the region, further solidifying Ulta's presence in the Chicago metropolitan market. (link)

Samsara Inc., a significant player in the Internet of Things (IoT) market, reported a remarkable 25.6% increase in its stock following strong third-quarter earnings. This surge is particularly impactful for Chicago's burgeoning tech sector, as the city is increasingly recognized as a hub for IoT and tech innovation. Samsara's performance reflects the growing strength and potential of Chicago's technology landscape. (link)

🏦 Finance

The upcoming 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is expected to attract a record-breaking number of participants, emphasizing the financial institution's significant impact on one of Chicago's premier sporting events. This marathon not only showcases the city's cultural and athletic prowess but also underscores Bank of America's role in fostering community engagement and economic benefits in Chicago. (link)

Bank of America's report on the changing attitudes of prospective homebuyers in Chicago indicates a shift in the local real estate market dynamics. The report, pointing to fewer buyers willing to wait for market improvements, offers crucial insights into Chicago's housing trends and the challenges faced by homebuyers in this major urban center. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Chicago Bulls experienced an impressive winning streak during the first week of December, highlighting the team's resurgence in the NBA. This series of victories has boosted the morale of Chicago sports fans and brought national attention to the city's basketball scene, showcasing the Bulls as a formidable force in the league. (link)

The Chicago Bears announced a new community initiative in early December, focusing on youth sports and education programs in the city. This initiative underscores the team's commitment to giving back to the community and fostering a positive impact beyond the football field. (link)

The Chicago Blackhawks played a historic game at the United Center, marking a significant milestone in the team's history. This game, attended by a record number of fans, not only celebrated the team's legacy but also highlighted the deep-rooted passion for hockey in Chicago, enhancing the city's reputation as a sports-loving metropolis. (link)

📰 News

American Woodmark Corporation, with its increasing presence in Chicago's home furnishings market, saw a 15.4% rise in its shares after outperforming in its second-quarter earnings. This growth highlights the company's expanding footprint in Chicago's housing and interior design sectors, marking a positive trend for local economic development and consumer choice in home furnishings. (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

🏒 Chicago Blackhawks vs. Vancouver Canucks (December 17): Experience the excitement of an NHL game at the United Center as the Chicago Blackhawks take on the Vancouver Canucks. Enjoy the fast-paced action and vibrant atmosphere of professional ice hockey. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Keith Sweat and Jagged Edge (December 11): A live concert event featuring Keith Sweat and Jagged Edge at the Chicago Theater. The concert promises a night of exceptional music, stunning performances, and a memorable experience for all music enthusiasts. (link)

🎵 Doja Cat (December 13): Another concert featuring Doja Cat at the United Center. This event is perfect for fans looking to enjoy live music in a dynamic venue, with a mix of new hits and classic favorites. (link)

Family

🍫 Cocoa Crawl in Aurora (December 11): A delightful event in Downtown Aurora where families can enjoy a festive cocoa crawl, exploring various local businesses and savoring delicious hot chocolate. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Chicago during a zombie apocalypse” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Chicago History

Opening of the Art Institute of Chicago (1893)

The Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, opened its doors in 1893, coinciding with the World's Columbian Exposition. Situated in Grant Park, the museum's opening was a momentous occasion, marking Chicago’s growing importance as a cultural center. The Art Institute began with a modest collection but over time has grown to house more than 300,000 works of art, spanning thousands of years of human history.

The museum has played a crucial role in the cultural development of Chicago. It has provided a space for art appreciation, education, and inspiration, showcasing works from diverse cultures and historical periods. Notable for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, the Art Institute has hosted groundbreaking exhibitions that have drawn visitors from all over the world.

The Art Institute of Chicago's impact extends beyond its galleries. Its school, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), has produced many influential artists and designers. The museum and school together have fostered a vibrant artistic community in the city, making Chicago a destination for art enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Art Institute continues to be a pillar of Chicago's cultural identity, celebrating artistic expression and creativity.

Famous People In Chicago History

Muddy Waters: 1913-1983

Muddy Waters, born McKinley Morganfield, was an American blues musician widely considered the "father of modern Chicago blues." His influence on the blues and rock and roll genres is monumental, and his connection to Chicago's musical history is profound.

Early Life in Mississippi (1913-1943) 

Born in Mississippi, Muddy Waters grew up immersed in the Delta blues tradition. His early life on Stovall Plantation was marked by hardship and racial segregation, but it was here that he first encountered the raw, emotive power of the blues.

Musical Beginnings and Influences (1943-1947) 

Waters began playing harmonica as a child before taking up the guitar. Influenced by blues legends like Son House and Robert Johnson, his music was deeply rooted in the Mississippi Delta tradition. In 1943, he moved to Chicago, seeking better economic opportunities and a new start in music.

The Chicago Blues Scene (1947-1952) 

Upon arriving in Chicago, Waters transitioned from acoustic to electric guitar, pioneering a new, amplified blues sound. He played at various clubs, slowly gaining recognition in the bustling post-war Chicago blues scene. His music resonated with the experiences of the African American community in the city.

Rise to Prominence (1952-1960) 

By the early 1950s, Muddy Waters had established himself as a leading figure in the Chicago blues genre. Hits like "I'm Your Hoochie Coochie Man" and "Mannish Boy" became blues standards, showcasing his gritty vocal style and compelling slide guitar work.

International Acclaim and Influence (1960-1970) 

The 1960s saw Waters' influence extend beyond Chicago. His music inspired a generation of rock musicians, both in the United States and in the UK. Bands like The Rolling Stones (who named themselves after one of his songs) drew heavily from his work, bridging the gap between blues and rock.

Recording and Performing (1970-1980) 

Throughout the 1970s, Waters continued to record and perform, although the blues genre was overshadowed by rock and roll. He remained a respected figure in the music industry, revered for his contributions to the blues.

Legacy in Music (1980-1983) 

Muddy Waters' legacy was cemented by his influence on the development of modern blues and rock music. He received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame.

Passing and Posthumous Recognition (1983) 

Waters passed away in his Chicago home in 1983. His death marked the end of an era in blues music, but his legacy continues to live on. He is remembered not only for his music but also for his role in shaping the cultural landscape of Chicago.

Influence on Chicago's Cultural Identity 

Muddy Waters' music is a fundamental part of Chicago's cultural identity. His style, born out of the Mississippi Delta and honed in the clubs of Chicago, represents the city's rich musical heritage and its role in the evolution of blues music.

Key Achievements of Muddy Waters:

• Pioneered the Chicago blues sound, influencing generations of musicians.

• Inspired the British blues explosion and the development of rock and roll.

• Received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame.

• His music remains a staple of blues and rock, celebrated worldwide.

• Left an indelible mark on Chicago's cultural history and the global music scene.

Muddy Waters' journey from the cotton fields of Mississippi to the clubs of Chicago is a story of resilience, innovation, and profound musical impact. His legacy as a foundational figure in blues music continues to resonate in Chicago and beyond.

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