Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Foglia Residences completed for residents.

• Bears secure Arlington tax deal.

• Upcoming Chicago Bulls games.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If you can dream it, you can do it."

— Walt Disney

Trivia

What was the original name of Willis Tower?

A) John Hancock Center

B) Trump Tower

C) Sears Tower

D) Aon Center

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

A popular annual summer music festival held in Chicago is B) Lollapalooza.

News

💼 Business

Construction complete on The Foglia Residences for visually impaired, disabled and veteran residents. (link)

Chicago water innovation hub Current gets investment from JPMorgan Chase. (link)

🏒 Sports

Arlington Heights approves tax deal with Bears, but the team still wants a new stadium in Chicago. (link)

Dansby Swanson’s need for hernia surgery in October ‘surprised’ the Chicago Cubs. (link)

🏦 Finance

How Chicago startup Fello aims to combat loneliness after $10 million raise. (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

🏀 UIC Flames Women's Basketball v LSU
Credit Union 1 Arena at UIC, Chicago, IL
Thu • Dec 19, 2024 • 7:00 PM | More Info

🏀 Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics
United Center, Chicago, IL
Sat • Dec 21, 2024 • 7:00 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎸 Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas (Chicago)
Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, Chicago, IL
Thu • Dec 19, 2024 • 7:00 PM | More Info

🎷 Shani, Shostakovich & Brahms
Symphony Center-IL, Chicago, IL
Fri • Dec 20, 2024 • 1:30 PM | More Info

Family

🐦 Joffrey Ballet: The Nutcracker
Civic Opera House, Chicago, IL
Thu • Dec 19, 2024 • 7:00 PM | 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 “Metropolis of Chicago with a massive central AI-controlled hub” 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

1837: Chicago is incorporated as a city.

In 1837, a significant milestone in Chicago's history was reached as the city was officially incorporated. This pivotal moment marked the transition from a small settlement to a bustling urban center, setting the stage for the city's rapid growth and development. With its incorporation, Chicago gained the status of a formal municipality, complete with a city government and the ability to enact local laws and regulations. This move solidified Chicago's position as a key player in the region and laid the foundation for its future as a major economic and cultural hub.

The incorporation of Chicago in 1837 also reflected the city's growing importance as a center of trade and commerce. Situated at the crossroads of major waterways and transportation routes, Chicago's strategic location made it a vital hub for the movement of goods and people. The city's incorporation further facilitated the expansion of its infrastructure, including the development of roads, bridges, and other essential amenities that supported its burgeoning population and economic activity.

As Chicago continued to evolve and thrive, the significance of its incorporation in 1837 became increasingly evident. The city's status as an incorporated municipality provided a framework for governance and administration that laid the groundwork for its future expansion and prosperity. This pivotal moment in Chicago's history remains a testament to the city's enduring spirit of innovation, progress, and resilience.

Famous People From Chicago

Walter Payton (1954-1999) – NFL player, Chicago Bears.

Walter Payton (1954-1999)

Walter Jerry Payton, also known as "Sweetness," was a legendary NFL player who left an indelible mark on the sport and the city of Chicago. His career and life story reflect a journey of perseverance, excellence, and community impact.

Early Life and Introduction to Football (1954-1968)

Walter Jerry Payton was born on July 25, 1954, in Columbia, Mississippi, to Peter and Alyne Payton. Initially, Payton wasn't overly enthusiastic about sports, but he later discovered his passion for football and began to showcase his athletic talent.

College Football and Rising Stardom (1969-1974)

Payton had an outstanding college football career at Jackson State University, where he was named Little All-American twice. His remarkable performance on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts, paving the way for his professional career.

NFL Career with the Chicago Bears (1975-1987)

In 1975, Walter Payton was selected by the Chicago Bears as the fourth overall pick in the NFL Draft. He went on to spend his entire 13-season NFL tenure with the Bears, becoming a superstar of unusual dimensions and dominating the league with his exceptional skills.

Record-Breaking Achievements and Accolades (1970s-1980s)

Throughout his NFL career, Payton achieved numerous accolades, including being named the 1985 NFC Offensive Player of the Year. He set records and earned recognition as one of the greatest running backs of all time, leaving an enduring legacy in the history of the NFL.

Community Impact and Philanthropy (1980s-1990s)

Off the field, Walter Payton made a significant impact through his philanthropic efforts. He established the Walter Payton Foundation, dedicated to helping young people in the Chicago area, and became a symbol of generosity and compassion in the community.

Legacy and Remembering Sweetness (Post-1999)

Walter Payton's legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements. He is remembered as a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and community leadership, leaving an enduring impact on the city of Chicago and the NFL as a whole.

Key Achievements of Walter Payton:

• Named the 1985 NFC Offensive Player of the Year

• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

• Established the Walter Payton Foundation to help young people in the Chicago area

• Remembered as one of the greatest running backs of all time

• Honored with the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for his philanthropic contributions

Walter Payton's story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving greatness in sports, and dedicating himself to the betterment of his community and the lives of young people. His impact on Chicago and the NFL remains significant and enduring.

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.

-Yannick Lyons

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