Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Chicago Symphony Orchestra performance this week

• A deep dive into the life of Jane Addams

• New Chicago AI art

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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 Chicago park is the largest?

A) Millennium Park

B) Lincoln Park

C) Grant Park

D) Jackson Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The Great Chicago Fire occurred in B) 1871.

News

💼 Business

Chicago's business activity experienced a contraction for the second consecutive month as of January 2024, indicating a slowdown in the local economy. (link)

A series of banking and finance events are scheduled in Chicago, including the NAMIC's Commercial Lines Seminar and the Annual Meeting of the Midwest Finance Association. (link)

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business is set to start its Economic Outlook 2024 events. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Chicago Bears announced their opponents for the 2024 season. (link)

Matt Eberflus is expected to return as the Chicago Bears' head coach in 2024. (link)

🏦 Finance

Small businesses in Chicago have opportunities to apply for grants in February 2024, with the $10,000 Boss Impact Fund being one notable option. (link)

Chicago's credit rating faces pressure as Moody's downgraded the city's bonds due to increasing pension liabilities and financial constraints. (link)

The Chicago Plan Commission is gearing up for its February 2024 hearing, a significant event where key zoning and development decisions are made. (link)

Chicago's GDP saw an increase at an annual rate of 3.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2023, marking a positive growth trajectory. (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

🏒 Public Ice Skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St
Daily from Feb 5th to Feb 11th | 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 University of Chicago Folk Festival
Mandel Hall, Hyde Park
Feb 9 - Feb 10, 2024 | (More Info)

🎶 Once Upon a Symphony: The Three Little Pigs
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

🎭 Blue Man Group
Briar Street Theatre
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Disney100: The Exhibition
Exhibition Hub Art Center Chicago
Feb. 5 - Feb. 11 | (More Info)

🍫 World of Chocolate
West Loop
Friday, Feb. 9th | (More Info)

🍽️ Chicago Black Restaurant Week
Various locations in the Loop
Friday, Feb. 9th | (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 “Retro-futuristic 1950s style Chicago with modern technology” 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

Opening of the Illinois and Michigan Canal (1848)

In 1848, a significant milestone in Chicago's development was achieved with the opening of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. This monumental project connected the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River via the Illinois River, establishing a vital waterway for the transportation of goods and people. The canal's completion marked a pivotal moment, transforming Chicago into a booming transportation hub and solidifying its position in the American Midwest.

The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal was an engineering marvel of its time, stretching 96 miles and facilitating the movement of resources like coal, timber, and grain. This not only boosted the local economy but also attracted a wave of laborers, merchants, and settlers, contributing to the rapid population growth and urbanization of Chicago. The canal played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States, enhancing trade and commerce across the region.

The opening of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1848 had far-reaching impacts, propelling Chicago's evolution into a major commercial and economic center. It fostered connections between the East and the developing West, catalyzing industrial growth and attracting a diverse workforce. This period marked the beginning of Chicago's ascendancy as a key player in America's industrial and transportation narrative, setting the stage for its future as a world-class city.

Famous People From Chicago

Jane Addams (1860-1935)

Early Life and Education (1860-1881)

Jane Addams, born on September 6, 1860, in Cedarville, Illinois, grew up in a wealthy family. Despite the comforts of her early life, Addams was deeply affected by the poverty she saw around her. Her mother's death when she was young and a congenital spinal defect that caused her lifelong health issues also influenced her empathetic nature. Addams attended Rockford Female Seminary, where she was valedictorian of her class and developed a passion for social reform.

Inspiration from Europe and Hull House Foundation (1881-1890)

After graduating, Addams traveled to Europe. During her travels, she visited Toynbee Hall in London, a settlement house that inspired her. Upon returning to the U.S., she co-founded Hull House in Chicago in 1889. This community center in a poor immigrant neighborhood aimed to provide social and educational opportunities for the underprivileged, especially women and children.

Expansion of Hull House and Social Work Pioneering (1890-1900)

Hull House rapidly expanded, becoming a hub for social reform. Addams and her colleagues provided various services, including childcare, educational classes, and art programs. Addams' work at Hull House positioned her as a pioneer in the field of social work, advocating for child labor laws, women's suffrage, and healthcare reform.

Activism and Sociopolitical Involvement (1900-1910)

In the early 20th century, Addams' activism extended beyond Hull House. She became involved in women's suffrage and peace movements. Her commitment to social justice led her to co-found organizations like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF).

World War I and Peace Advocacy (1910-1920)

During World War I, Addams' peace advocacy intensified. She faced criticism for her pacifist stance but remained committed to promoting peace and understanding. Her efforts in international peace and conflict resolution were recognized globally.

Nobel Peace Prize and Continued Advocacy (1920-1931)

In 1931, Addams' lifelong dedication to peace and social justice was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize, making her the first American woman to receive this accolade. She continued her advocacy, focusing on world peace and social welfare issues.

Final Years and Legacy (1931-1935)

In her final years, Addams continued her work at Hull House and remained active in social and political advocacy. She passed away on May 21, 1935, leaving behind a lasting legacy in social work and humanitarianism.

Jane Addams' Key Achievements:

• Co-founder of Hull House, a cornerstone in the development of social work.

• Instrumental in advocating for child labor laws and women’s suffrage.

• Co-founder of the NAACP and WILPF.

• First American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in peace and social reform.

Jane Addams was a pioneering social worker and peace advocate whose contributions significantly impacted American society. Her establishment of Hull House and involvement in various social reform movements showcased her commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged. Her legacy continues to inspire those in the fields of social work, community service, and international peace efforts.

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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