Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• DePaul Women's Basketball Ascends Big East Ranks

• A deep dive into the life of Clarence Darrow

• New Chicago AI art

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Well done is better than well said."

- Benjamin Franklin

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!

Which famous architect started his career in Chicago?

A) Frank Lloyd Wright

B) I. M. Pei

C) Zaha Hadid

D) Renzo Piano

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The largest park in Chicago is B) Lincoln Park.

News

💼 Business

Demand for office space in Chicago is not back to pre-pandemic levels. (link)

New York’s financial industry is back in the office, but West Coast tech companies are working from home. (link)

Demand for Chicago office space kept falling in 2023. (link)

As of December, demand in Chicago stood at 45% of the pre-pandemic norm. (link)

🏒 Sports

Chicago Bulls sign a two-year extension with guard Alex Caruso, focusing on defensive prowess. (link)

DePaul University's women's basketball team climbs the Big East rankings after defeating Villanova at home. (link)

Steve McMichael was elected to the Hall Of Fame, highlighting his exceptional career and contributions to football​​.(link)

Chicago snowplow naming contest winners announced.(link)

🏦 Finance

The City’s financial position continues to show signs of improvement, as recognized by various credit rating upgrades between 2022 and 2023.(link)

Indexes Finish Lower After Powell Says Caution on Rate Cuts Needed. Results from McDonald’s, Tyson, Caterpillar land; Treasury yields rise.(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
United Center, Chicago
Tuesday, Feb 13th | 7:30 PM (more info)

🏀 DePaul Blue Demons Men's Basketball vs. UConn Huskies Men's Basketball
Wintrust Arena, Chicago
Wednesday, Feb 14th | 8:00 PM (more info)

🏒 Chicago Wolves VS Cleveland Monsters
Allstate Arena, Chicago
Thursday, February 18, 2024 | 3:00 PM (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Playboi Carti and Homixide Gang
United Center, Chicago
Monday 12 February 2024 | (More Info)

🎶 ††† (Crosses)
Concord Music Hall, Chicago, IL, US
Monday 12 February 2024 | (More Info)

Family

🐉 Chinese New Year Celebration
Chinatown, Chicago
Sunday, Feb 18th | 1:00 PM EST (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 within a giant biodome” 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

1854: Establishment of the Republican Party.

In 1854, a pivotal moment in American political history occurred with the establishment of the Republican Party, an event that would significantly influence the course of the nation's political landscape. This foundational event took place amidst a period of intense national debate over slavery, particularly the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which threatened to extend slavery into the new western territories. Dissatisfied with the existing political parties' approaches to the issue of slavery, a group of anti-slavery activists, dissidents from the Whig Party, and Free Soilers convened in Ripon, Wisconsin, to form a new political entity. This gathering marked the birth of the Republican Party, which was united by a common goal: to oppose the spread of slavery and to promote more progressive economic policies.

The Republican Party quickly gained momentum in the northern states, drawing support from a wide spectrum of the population who were concerned about the expansion of slavery and seeking a political voice that echoed their sentiments. By the time the party's first national convention was held in 1856, the Republicans had successfully established themselves as a formidable force in American politics. Their platform called for the prohibition of slavery in all the territories, appealing to a broad coalition of Northerners who were united in their opposition to the "Slave Power." Although the party's first presidential candidate, John C. Fremont, was not victorious, the Republicans had laid the groundwork for future success.

Chicago's role in the rise of the Republican Party was significant. The city, rapidly growing and industrializing, became a hotbed for Republican ideals, serving as a critical center for anti-slavery activism and political organization. Chicago's strategic location in the Midwest made it a vital hub for the party's expansion, particularly in rallying support in the North. The culmination of these efforts was famously realized in 1860, when the Republican National Convention in Chicago nominated Abraham Lincoln as its presidential candidate, setting the stage for his historic election and the ensuing Civil War. The establishment of the Republican Party in 1854 marked the beginning of a major shift in American politics, rooted in the struggle against slavery and the quest for a more equitable and progressive society.

Famous People From Chicago

Clarence Darrow (1857-1938)

Early Life and Education (1857-1880)

Clarence Darrow was born on April 18, 1857, in Kinsman, Ohio. Raised in a politically active family, he developed a strong sense of justice and fairness early on. Darrow attended Allegheny College and the University of Michigan Law School but did not graduate, instead starting his law career by passing the bar exam in 1878.

Early Legal Career and Advocacy (1881-1900)

Darrow moved to Chicago in 1887, where he began working as a corporate lawyer. He quickly became disillusioned with supporting powerful corporations and shifted his focus to labor law, defending the rights of workers and unions.

High-Profile Cases and Public Acclaim (1901-1910)

Darrow gained national acclaim for his involvement in high-profile cases, including defending union leaders accused of conspiracy after the Haymarket Riot. His eloquent speeches and commitment to civil liberties solidified his reputation as a champion of the underprivileged.

The McNamara Case and Controversy (1911-1920)

In the McNamara case, where he defended two brothers accused of bombing the Los Angeles Times building, Darrow faced allegations of jury tampering, which tarnished his reputation. He managed to avoid conviction but suffered personally and professionally.

Scopes ""Monkey"" Trial and Legal Philosophy (1921-1930)

Darrow's defense in the Scopes ""Monkey"" Trial, where he argued against the teaching ban of evolution in schools, brought him back into the limelight. His performance in this trial showcased his agnostic beliefs and his advocacy for intellectual freedom.

Later Career and Continued Advocacy (1931-1938)

In his later years, Darrow continued to take on labor and civil rights cases. He also wrote extensively, sharing his legal philosophy and views on capital punishment, which he staunchly opposed.

Death and Enduring Legacy (1938)

Clarence Darrow passed away on March 13, 1938. His legacy as one of America's greatest lawyers lives on, remembered for his dedication to justice and civil liberties.

Clarence Darrow's Key Achievements:

• Pioneering defense attorney known for his advocacy in labor law and civil liberties.

• Key figure in landmark cases like the Haymarket Riot and Scopes Trial.

• Vocal critic of capital punishment and champion of intellectual freedom.

• Influential in shaping legal thought and practice in the United States.

Clarence Darrow, renowned for his skillful and passionate legal advocacy, left an indelible mark on American law and society. His defense in controversial cases and his commitment to social justice made him a hero to many and solidified his place as a legal legend. His work continues to inspire lawyers and civil rights advocates, upholding his belief in justice for all.

Connect With Me

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-Matthew Larsen

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