Chicago Newsletter (April 22nd)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Upcomming Chicago Fire FC vs. Atlanta United FC

  • A deep dive into the life of Studs Terkel

  • The historic hush-money trial involving Donald Trump began

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"The only person you are destined to become, is the person you decide to be."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

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!

What is the main ingredient in the Chicago-style hot dog's neon green relish?

A) Cucumber

B) Pickle

C) Pepper

D) Tomato

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The oldest university in Chicago is B) Northwestern University.

News

💼 Business

A weaker oil market and a stronger dollar are putting pressure on agricultural commodities, affecting wheat futures which showed mixed results. (Link)

The historic hush-money trial involving Donald Trump began, facing challenges in jury selection on its first day. (Link)

In Illinois, lawmakers and the state's largest marijuana business group are advocating for a ban on delta-8 THC and other unregulated psychoactive hemp products. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Canada edged out the United States 6-5 in overtime at the World Women's Hockey Championship in Utica, New York. (Link)

Caitlin Clark was selected first overall by the Indiana Fever in the WNBA draft, confirming expectations. (Link)

The latest NFL Mock Draft updates speculate on the Indianapolis Colts' picks with just ten days remaining until the draft. (Link)

John Sterling has retired from his role as the New York Yankees broadcaster after 36 seasons, stepping down at the age of 85. (Link)

🏦 Finance

The Undergraduate Student Government (USG) elections are set from April 15 to April 19, with candidates discussing their platforms and goals. (Link)

Oberweis Dairy has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after failing to secure a buyer, marking a significant turn for the century-old company known for its dairy products and political connections. (Link)

Lobbyists suggest the Chicago Bears might consider returning to Arlington for a new stadium if their current lakefront proposal falls through due to legal, financial, and political challenges. (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 Fire FC vs. Atlanta United FC
Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Drive
Saturday, Apr 27th | 7:30 PM | More Info

Chicago White Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W 35th St
Friday, Apr 26th | 6:40 PM | More Info

🏓 Major League Table Tennis Championships
Gentile Arena, 6525 N Sheridan Rd
Saturday, Apr 27th | 4:00 PM | More Info

Chicago Cubs vs. Houston Astros
Wrigley Field, Chicago
Tuesday, Apr. 23rd | 6:40 PM | More Info

Chicago Cubs vs. Houston Astros
Wrigley Field, Chicago
Wednesday, Apr. 24th | 6:40 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎤 Joffrey Ballet: "Midsummer Night’s Dream"
Lyric Opera House, Chicago
Ongoing until May 4, 2024 | Multiple Performances | More Info

🎵 Chicago Latino Film Festival (Featuring various music performances)
Various Locations, Chicago
Ongoing until April 22, 2024 | Multiple Times | More Info

🎤 Mexico in a Bottle (Featuring various musical performances)
Bridgeport Art Center, Chicago
Sunday, Apr. 28th | All Day Event | More Info

Family

🎨 Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) 
McCormick Place, Chicago
Friday, Apr. 26th - Sunday, Apr. 28th | All day | (More Info)

📚 The New Bicycle: Storytime with Darcy Day Zoells 
The Book Stall, Winnetka
Saturday, Apr. 27th | 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | (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 “Post-apocalyptic Chicago reclaimed by nature.” and this is what I got.

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

Chicago Historical Events

1943: Second Chicago Race Riot.

The 1943: Second Chicago Race Riot, also known as the Detroit Race Riot of 1943, was a significant event that occurred during the World War II era. The riot was marked by devastating racial unrest that gripped Detroit in June 1943, and it had a profound impact on the social fabric of Chicago. Tensions soared as nearly 100,000 citizens packed Belle Isle, leading to racially-motivated fighting between Black and White youths on the island. The violence escalated as both blacks and whites engaged in violent confrontations, resulting in a riot that lasted about 24 hours from June 20 to June 21. This event laid the foundation for the shaping of modern Chicago and had a lasting impact on race relations in the city.

The 1943: Second Chicago Race Riot was a pivotal moment in the history of Chicago, shaping the city's social dynamics and race relations. The riot was characterized by widespread violence, with white rioters pulling blacks off streetcars at busy South Side intersections and engaging in brutal acts of aggression. The event highlighted the grave and perplexing domestic problem of race relations in the United States, and its impact reverberated across the nation. The riot had a lasting impact on the city's history and played a significant role in the progression of civil rights for African Americans.

The Detroit Race Riot of 1943, also known as the 1943: Second Chicago Race Riot, was a manifestation of social inequities and racial tensions that contributed to the event. The violence and unrest that gripped Detroit during this period had a profound impact on the city's history and the progression of civil rights for African Americans. The riot served as a stark reminder of the challenges and complexities of race relations in the United States, and its legacy continues to shape the social and cultural landscape of Chicago.

Famous People From Chicago

Studs Terkel (1912-2008)

Studs Terkel, born Louis Terkel on May 16, 1912, in New York City, was an American writer, historian, actor, and broadcaster. He is best remembered for his oral histories of common Americans and for hosting a long-running radio show in Chicago. Terkel's pioneering work in print, radio, and TV exemplified Chicago, a city he adopted and celebrated throughout his life.

Early Life and Career (1912-1945)

Louis "Studs" Terkel was born on May 16, 1912, in New York City. His family moved to Chicago when he was a child, and it was in this vibrant city that Terkel found his passion for storytelling and connecting with people. He attended the University of Chicago, where he developed his skills as a broadcaster and writer, laying the foundation for his future career.

Radio and Broadcasting (1946-1960)

Terkel's career in radio and broadcasting began in the late 1940s when he hosted a radio show called "The Wax Museum," which featured jazz music. This marked the beginning of his long and influential career in radio, where he would become known for his ability to engage with people from all walks of life and capture their stories.

Literary Works and Oral Histories (1960-1980)

In the 1960s, Terkel published his first best-selling book, "Division Street: America," which showcased his talent for capturing the voices of everyday Americans. This was followed by "Hard Times: An Oral History of the Great Depression" and "Working: People Talk About What They Do All Day and How They Feel About What They Do," solidifying his reputation as a master of oral history and storytelling.

The Good War and Pulitzer Prize (1980-1990)

Terkel's most acclaimed work, "The Good War," was published in 1984 and earned him the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 1985. This book, based on interviews with World War II veterans, highlighted the experiences of ordinary people during a pivotal moment in history, further cementing Terkel's legacy as a chronicler of the human experience.

Legacy and Impact (1990-2008)

Throughout the later years of his life, Terkel continued to be a prominent figure in Chicago's cultural and literary scene. His influence extended beyond his literary works, as he remained an active voice in social and political discourse, advocating for the rights of ordinary citizens and marginalized communities.

Key Achievements of Studs Terkel:

  • - Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction for "The Good War" in 1985.

  • - Pioneering oral historian, capturing the voices and stories of everyday Americans.

  • - Long-running radio show host, engaging with people from diverse backgrounds.

  • - Advocate for social justice and the rights of ordinary citizens.

  • - Celebrated author of best-selling books, including "Working" and "Hard Times."

Studs Terkel's life and work exemplify a deep connection to Chicago and a commitment to amplifying the voices of everyday people. His legacy as an oral historian, broadcaster, and advocate for social justice continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world."

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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