Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming DePaul Blue Demons Mens Basketball games.

• Brennan expands Chicago industrial portfolio.

• Ryan Poles leads coaching search.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Success is not how far you got, but the distance you traveled from where you started."

— Steve Prefontaine

Trivia

Which of these rivers is dyed green annually in celebration of St. Patrick's Day in Chicago?

A) Mississippi River

B) Chicago River

C) Illinois River

D) Des Plaines River

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic event held in Chicago's Grant Park in 2008 was B) Barack Obama's Presidential Election Victory Speech.

News

💼Business

Karis Cold building Chicago's first speculative cold-storage facility as demand heats up. (link)

Brennan Investment Group adds 227,000-square-foot industrial building to its Chicago portfolio. (link)

🏒Sports

‘The most coveted job’ in the NFL: Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles will be the ‘point person’ in head coaching search. (link)

3 things we learned from the Chicago Bears, including Jaylon Johnson not backing down from postgame eruption. (link)

🏦Finance

Buena Park apartment building sold near Loyola University Chicago. (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

🏀 DePaul Blue Demons Mens Basketball vs. Providence College Friars Mens Basketball
Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL
Tue • Dec 10, 2024 • 7:30 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎸 Andrew Bird
Fourth Presbyterian Church, Chicago, IL
Mon • Dec 09, 2024 • 8:00 PM | More Info

🎷 Twisted Xmas With Cage The Elephant
Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL
Tue • Dec 10 • 7:00 PM | More Info

Family

🐦 Chicago Kids Company Presents Mrs. Claus
Apollo Theater, Chicago, IL
Tue • Dec 10, 2024 • 10:30 AM | More Info

⚡ Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Chicago)
James M. Nederlander Theatre, Chicago, IL
Wed • Dec 11, 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 “Chicago with gravity-defying structures” 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

1983: Harold Washington becomes the first African American mayor.

In 1983, a historic moment unfolded in the city of Chicago as Harold Washington made history by becoming the first African American mayor of the city. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in the political landscape of Chicago and the United States as a whole. Harold Washington's election as mayor was a testament to the progress and resilience of the African American community, and it represented a pivotal moment in the fight for equality and representation in local government.

Harold Washington's mayoral victory in 1983 was a triumph that resonated far beyond the city of Chicago, inspiring hope and empowerment among African Americans across the nation. His leadership and vision brought about positive change, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity within the diverse communities of Chicago. Washington's tenure as mayor left a lasting legacy, as he worked tirelessly to address social and economic disparities, promote diversity, and advocate for the rights of marginalized groups.

The election of Harold Washington as the first African American mayor of Chicago in 1983 remains a pivotal moment in the city's history, symbolizing a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and representation in American politics. Washington's tenure as mayor continues to serve as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the city of Chicago and the nation as a whole.

Famous People From Chicago

Ray Kroc (1902-1984) – Businessman, expanded McDonald's.

Ray Kroc: 1902-1984

Ray Kroc, a visionary businessman, and the force behind the global expansion of McDonald's, was born on October 5, 1902, in Oak Park, Illinois, near Chicago. His life journey is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and entrepreneurial excellence.

Early Life and Ambition (1902-1917)

Ray Kroc was born to Czech American parents, Rose Mary and Alois "Louis" Kroc. His father, a former employee of the telegraph company Western Union, made a fortune through land speculation in the 1920s but lost everything in the 1929 stock market crash. Ray's early years were marked by the influence of his parents' experiences, instilling in him a drive for success and financial stability. At the age of 15, Kroc lied about his age to join the Red Cross, demonstrating his early ambition and determination.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and McDonald's Acquisition (1950s-1960s)

Kroc's entrepreneurial journey began when he met the McDonald brothers, Richard and Maurice, who had established a small but successful fast-food restaurant in San Bernardino, California. Recognizing the potential for expansion, Kroc acquired the company from the McDonald brothers in 1961, securing a $2.7 million loan to purchase the business outright. This marked the beginning of his transformative role in shaping McDonald's into a global powerhouse.

Global Expansion and Business Innovations (1960s-1970s)

Under Kroc's leadership, McDonald's experienced unprecedented growth, expanding from a local chain to the world's most profitable restaurant franchise operation. Kroc's business acumen and innovative strategies, such as the implementation of standardized operating procedures and franchising systems, revolutionized the fast-food industry and set new benchmarks for operational efficiency and customer experience.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement (1970s-1980s)

Beyond his business endeavors, Kroc was actively involved in philanthropy and community engagement. He established the Ronald McDonald House Charities, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and resources to children and families facing medical challenges. Kroc's commitment to social responsibility and community welfare reflected his belief in using his success to make a positive impact on society.

Legacy and Enduring Influence (Post-1980s)

Ray Kroc's legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur and business leader continues to inspire generations of aspiring innovators and industry professionals. His contributions to the fast-food industry, coupled with his philanthropic initiatives, have left an enduring mark on global business and community welfare. Kroc's vision and dedication to excellence have solidified his position as a transformative figure in the history of American entrepreneurship.

Key Achievements of Ray Kroc:

• Acquisition of McDonald's from the McDonald brothers, leading to its global expansion.

• Transformation of McDonald's into the world's most profitable restaurant franchise operation.

• Establishment of the Ronald McDonald House Charities, demonstrating a commitment to philanthropy and community welfare.

• Pioneering business innovations, including standardized operating procedures and franchising systems.

• Enduring legacy as a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, shaping the fast-food industry and community welfare.

Ray Kroc's story is one of ambition, innovation, and social responsibility, reflecting a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global influence. His enduring impact on the business world and philanthropic endeavors continues to inspire and shape the future of entrepreneurship and community welfare.

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

Poll