Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Kenya Grace performance

• Upcoming Chicago White Sox home games

• A deep dive into the life of John G. Shedd

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"For there is nothing either good or bad, thinking makes it so."

- William Shakespeare

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!

In what year did Chicago host its first St. Patrick's Day parade?

A) 1843

B) 1903

C) 1956

D) 1962

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The highest natural point in Chicago is A) Blue Island.

News

💼 Business

This week's market highlights include U.S. payroll data, Federal Reserve speeches, and earnings reports from Levi Strauss & Dave & Buster's. (Link)

Expect tech companies like Google, Tesla, and Volkswagen to roll out April Fools' pranks. (Link)

Donald Trump's net worth decreases by $1 billion as Truth Social's stock plummets. (Link)

VELVEETA launches a limited-edition gold hair dye, promoting bold self-expression. (Link)

🏒 Sports

The Atlanta Braves are set to face the challenge of playing in cold Chicago weather after moving from warmer locations. (Link)

Chicago Fire FC has revealed plans for a special Chicago Sports Night during their upcoming home game against Houston Dynamo. (Link)

Rome Odunze had his top-30 visit with the Bears on Thursday. (Link)

The Chicago Cubs' leading pitcher is expected to be sidelined and on the injured list throughout April. (Link)

🏦 Finance

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust announced its regular monthly distribution for common shares and a quarterly update. (Link)

A glitch between the FAFSA 2024 application and IRS systems could delay financial aid for one million families, according to the Department of Education. (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 White Sox vs. Cincinnati Reds
Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago, IL
Thursday, Apr. 12th | More Info

🏃 Tiny Tots Sports Camp
Bradley Fieldhouse, Chicago, IL
Wednesday, Apr. 11th | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎤 Ariana Grande: Sweetener World Tour
United Center, Chicago
Monday, April 8th | 7:00 PM | More Info

🎤 Rick Ross at The Piazza
The Piazza, Chicago, IL
Friday, Apr. 13th | More Info

🎵 Kenya Grace
Schubas Tavern, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Apr. 10th | More Info

🎸 Kublai Khan TX
Metro, Chicago, IL
Thursday, Apr. 12th | More Info

Family

🎭 Cloud Man at Filament Theatre
Filament Theatre, 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL, 60641
April 13th | 11:00 AM - 2:00 P​M | More Info

🎨 EXPO ART WEEK
Navy Pier, Chicago
April 8-14, 2024 | More Info

🕺 Shen Yun Performing Arts
Harris Theater, Chicago
April 13-14, 2024 | 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 “Urban landscape of Chicago with advanced public transport systems” 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

1933: Century of Progress International Exposition.

The 1933 Century of Progress International Exposition, also known as the Chicago World's Fair, was a monumental event that celebrated the city's centennial anniversary. Held on the shores of Lake Michigan, the fair showcased the technological and cultural advancements of the time, offering visitors a glimpse into the future. The fair's theme, "A Century of Progress," highlighted the remarkable innovations and achievements of the past 100 years, while also looking ahead to the possibilities of the future. The exposition featured stunning architectural marvels, futuristic exhibits, and a diverse array of attractions that captivated the millions of visitors who flocked to Chicago to experience this extraordinary event.

At the heart of the fair was the "Sky Ride," a towering structure that provided breathtaking views of the fairgrounds and the city skyline. The fair also introduced the world to the first Major League Baseball All-Star Game, which took place at Comiskey Park. Additionally, the fair's "Streets of Paris" exhibit transported visitors to the romantic streets of Paris, complete with cafes, shops, and entertainment. The fair's impact extended beyond entertainment, as it also served as a platform for showcasing scientific and industrial advancements, including the introduction of the first television sets to the public.

The 1933 Century of Progress International Exposition left an indelible mark on Chicago, solidifying its reputation as a city of innovation and progress. The fair's legacy lives on in the city's architecture, cultural institutions, and the spirit of innovation that continues to define Chicago to this day. The event remains a symbol of the city's resilience and forward-thinking mindset, and its impact on the world of technology, industry, and culture is still felt today.

Famous People From Chicago

John G. Shedd (1850-1926)

John G. Shedd: A Philanthropic Legacy (1850-1926)

John Graves Shedd, born on a New Hampshire farm on July 20, 1850, arrived in Chicago, Illinois in 1871 and began working as a stock clerk for Marshall Field. Following the 1906 death of Marshall Field, Shedd became president of Marshall Field & Co. Shedd was a civic leader and founding member of the Commercial Club of Chicago, which continues to play an active role. He is best remembered for the more than $3 million he donated to the city of Chicago to build the lakefront John G. Shedd Aquarium. Shedd's philanthropic endeavors left an indelible mark on Chicago and beyond, shaping the city's cultural landscape and leaving a lasting legacy.

Connection to Chicago

John G. Shedd's connection to Chicago was profound, as he became a prominent figure in the city's business and civic circles. His generous donation to build the lakefront John G. Shedd Aquarium stands as a testament to his commitment to the city's cultural and educational development. Shedd's influence extended beyond business, as he played a pivotal role in shaping Chicago's cultural and philanthropic landscape.

Shedd Aquarium and Civic Leadership

In 1920, Shedd provided the funds for the construction of the Shedd-Porter Memorial Library in Alstead, New Hampshire. His dedication to education and public service was further exemplified by his role as president of the board of trustees of the Shedd Aquarium Society in 1991 when the Aquarium doubled in size. The Shedd Aquarium, formally known as the John G. Shedd Aquarium, stands as a testament to Shedd's commitment to marine education and conservation. The aquarium, opened on May 30, 1930, holds about 32,000 animals and is the third largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, after the Georgia Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

John G. Shedd's philanthropic legacy continues to resonate, with the Shedd Aquarium remaining a prominent cultural institution in Chicago. His vision for education, conservation, and public service lives on through the aquarium's ongoing efforts to inspire curiosity, compassion, and conservation for the aquatic animal world. Shedd's enduring impact on Chicago's cultural and educational landscape is a testament to his commitment to the betterment of the city and its residents.

Key Achievements of John G. Shedd:

• Donated over $3 million to build the lakefront John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.

• Civic leader and founding member of the Commercial Club of Chicago.

• Provided funds for the construction of the Shedd-Porter Memorial Library in Alstead, New Hampshire.

• President of the board of trustees of the Shedd Aquarium Society during a period of expansion.

• Legacy includes the enduring impact of the Shedd Aquarium on Chicago's cultural and educational landscape.

John G. Shedd's philanthropic contributions and dedication to civic leadership have left an indelible mark on Chicago, shaping the city's cultural and educational landscape for generations to come. His legacy continues to inspire a commitment to education, conservation, and public service, reflecting his enduring impact on the city and its residents.

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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