Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Piaget opens jeweler store in Chicago.

• Upcoming Chicago Sky game

• Bears predicted to progress significantly in 2024.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.”

― Michael Altshuler

Trivia

Which historic event was held in Chicago's Grant Park in 2008?

A) Lollapalooza

B) Barack Obama's Presidential Election Victory Speech

C) The World's Fair

D) Taste of Chicago

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, is housed in B) The Field Museum.

News

💼 Business

Piaget watchmaker and jeweler opens store in Chicago's Gold Coast. (link)

As TikTok sues over potential U.S. ban, Chicago business owner emphasizes app's importance. (link)

Parts Town Unlimited Advances to 43rd Position on Crain's Chicago Business' Largest Privately Held Companies List. (link)

Brad Henderson, Jack Lavin to join Intersect Illinois board of directors. (link)

🏒 Sports

Bears bold prediction has Chicago making big step forward in 2024. (link)

Chicago sports in major broadcasting change with White Sox, Bulls, and Blackhawks combining for new. (link)

Caleb Williams profile: Who is Chicago Bears' new quarterback? (link)

Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams has brutal showing at OTAs on Thursday. (link)

🏦 Finance

Chicago to Offer Most Generous Subsidies in U.S. to Save Its Downtown. (link)

China's Cofco Leaves Downtown Chicago Office to Escape Crime. (link)

Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance Announces First Quarter 2024 Financial Results. (link)

Trump's tax cheats on Chicago tower may cost him $100 million. (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

🏟️ VIP STADIUM TOUR
Soldier Field 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Jun 4th | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | More Info

⚾ Joliet Slammers vs. Trois-Rivieres Aigles
Duly Medical Group Field, Joliet, IL
Tuesday, Jun 4th | 6:35 PM | More Info

🏀 Chicago Sky vs. New York Liberty
Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Jun 4th | 7:00 PM | More Info

⚾ Chicago Cubs vs. Chicago White Sox
Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Jun 4th | 7:05 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎶 Michael Marcagi
Schubas, Chicago, IL
Monday, Jun 3th | 7:30 PM | More Info

🎤 Extraordinary Popular Delusions
Beat Kitchen 2100 West Belmont Chicago, IL
Monday, Jun 3th | 8:00 PM | More Info 

🎶 Sapphire Presents: Bleachers
Chase Lounge at The Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL
Monday, Jun 3th | 8:00 PM | More Info

🎸 Camera Obscura with Photo Ops
Thalia Hall 1807 S Allport St Chicago, IL
Monday, Jun 3th | 8:00 PM | More Info

Family

🎈 Circus Vazquez
Circus Vazquez - Chicago 4400 W. 26th Chicago, IL
Monday, Jun 3rd | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | More Info

🐦 SIX (Chicago)
James M. Nederlander Theatre, Chicago, IL
Wednesday, Jun 5th | 1:00 PM | More Info

🚤 The Enigmatist
Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Jun 4th | 7:30 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

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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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