Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Major upgrades to Chase Tower

• A deep dive into the life of Louis Sullivan

• Upcoming Chicago Symphony Orchestra performance

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

- Roy T. Bennett

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!

In what year did the Chicago World's Fair, also known as the Columbian Exposition, take place?

A) 1883

B) 1893

C) 1903

D) 1913

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The river that runs through the heart of Chicago is B) Chicago River.

News

💼 Business

Laura Lydigsen and Virginia Wolk Marino are recognized in Crain's Chicago Business's 2024 'Notable Women in Law' list for their exceptional contributions to the legal field. (Link)

The renovation of Chase Tower, a prominent feature of downtown Chicago, may lead to the relocation of its McDonald's. (Link)

Major upgrades to Chase Tower and other downtown Chicago buildings are part of a strategy to encourage workers to return to office settings. (Link)

A vote on expanding workers' paid time off in Chicago is delayed due to strong opposition from business groups. (Link)

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille announces the opening of its third restaurant in Chicagoland, located at the Hawthorn Mall. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Chicago Bulls' play-in tournament bid almost locked with significant developments. (Link)

Cubs' top prospects showcased their skills in the first weekend of spring play, hinting at a bright future for the team. (Link)

The United Center was electrified by Chris Chelios' jersey retirement, bringing together icons of the sport. (Link)

Patrick Kane stirred emotions among Blackhawks fans with a memorable performance to cap off his storybook return.(Link)

🏦 Finance

Chicago's The Fields Studios secures a $5 million state grant. (Link)

Chicago's Keystone Capital Management closes a substantial $630 million fund. (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

🏀 La Salle @ Loyola Chicago
Joseph J. Gentile Arena, Chicago
March 9th | (More Info)

🏃 Madhouse Stadium Crawl
Near the United Center, Chicago
March 9th | (More Info)

🏀 UIC Flames Women's Basketball vs. Southern Illinois
Credit Union 1 Arena, Chicago
March 9th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎻 Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven & Schubert
Symphony Center, Chicago
March 5th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🎸 EAGLES - The Long Goodbye Tour
United Center, Chicago
March 8-9 | (More Info)

Family

🐠 Shedd Aquarium: Free Day for Illinois Residents
Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
March 5 | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | (More Info)

🎨 Family Art Festival 
DuSable Museum of African American History, Chicago
March 9th | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | (More Info)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Chicago Children's Film Festival 
Various Locations, Chicago
March 7th - March 11th | Various Times | (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 “High-tech urban farm towers and green rooftops in Chicago” 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

1900: Reversal of the Chicago River.

In 1900, Chicago achieved an unprecedented feat of engineering with the reversal of the Chicago River. Faced with the critical issue of sanitation and public health, the city undertook this massive project to divert the flow of the river away from Lake Michigan, the city's primary source of drinking water. This monumental undertaking was in response to increasing water pollution caused by the rapid population growth and industrialization, which had led to the contamination of the lake with sewage and industrial waste.

The reversal of the river was accomplished by constructing a series of canals and lock systems, most notably the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. This ambitious project not only redirected the flow of water but also created a navigable waterway between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. The success of the endeavor dramatically improved the water quality in Lake Michigan and had far-reaching effects on the city's public health, urban development, and commerce.

The 1900 reversal of the Chicago River stands as a testament to Chicago's innovative spirit and its ability to undertake and successfully complete large-scale public works projects. It had a profound and lasting impact on the city's infrastructure and environment, marking a significant moment in urban planning and environmental management. The project underscored Chicago's role as a leader in engineering and a city committed to the well-being of its inhabitants, setting a precedent for future urban sanitation efforts.

Famous People From Chicago

Louis Sullivan (1856-1924)

Louis Sullivan: Architectural Visionary and the Father of Skyscrapers

Louis Sullivan, born on September 3, 1856, in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American architect who pioneered modern skyscraper design and is often referred to as the "father of skyscrapers." His legacy extends beyond his architectural achievements, as he was also a mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright and an inspiration to the Chicago group of architects known as the Prairie School. Sullivan's life and work reflect a commitment to creating spiritual and functional spaces that resonate with beauty and innovation.

Louis Sullivan's Early Years and Architectural Education (1856-1879)

Louis Sullivan's journey into architecture began with his education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he studied architecture. After completing his studies, he apprenticed with prominent Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for architectural design.

Chicago and the Chicago School of Architecture (1880s-1890s)

Sullivan's career took a significant turn when he moved to Chicago after the Great Fire of 1871. In Chicago, he worked for William Le Baron Jenney, a renowned architect known for early iron and steel-framed buildings. This experience in Chicago marked the beginning of Sullivan's association with the Chicago School of Architecture, where he made significant contributions to the city's architectural landscape.

Pioneering Skyscraper Design (1880s-1890s)

Louis Sullivan's most important works include the Auditorium Building in Chicago, which he designed in collaboration with Dankmar Adler. This building is a testament to Sullivan's innovative approach to skyscraper design, emphasizing the verticality and ornamentation that would become characteristic of his work. His designs revolutionized the concept of tall buildings and laid the foundation for modern skyscraper architecture.

Mentorship and Influence (Late 19th Century)

Sullivan's influence extended beyond his architectural designs. He served as a mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright, who would later become one of the most renowned architects in American history. Sullivan's teachings and principles of architectural design left a lasting impact on Wright and other architects who followed in his footsteps.

The World's Columbian Exposition (1893)

Louis Sullivan was chosen to build a major structure for the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. This opportunity further solidified his reputation as an influential architect and showcased his ability to create monumental and awe-inspiring structures that captivated the public and fellow architects alike.

Later Years and Legacy (1900s-1924)

In the later years of his life, Louis Sullivan continued to leave his mark on the architectural world. His commitment to the principle "form follows function" and his appreciation of nature set him apart as an architect who incorporated organic elements into his designs. Despite facing financial challenges and ending his life in poverty, Sullivan's legacy as a visionary architect and the father of modern American architecture remains enduring.

Key Achievements of Louis Sullivan:

• Pioneered modern skyscraper design and revolutionized the concept of tall buildings.

• Designed the iconic Auditorium Building in Chicago, a testament to his innovative approach to architecture.

• Mentored Frank Lloyd Wright and influenced a generation of architects with his teachings and principles.

• Selected to build a major structure for the World's Columbian Exposition, showcasing his monumental and awe-inspiring architectural prowess.

• Committed to the principle "form follows function" and incorporated organic elements into his designs, leaving a lasting impact on architectural aesthetics.

Louis Sullivan's story is one of innovation, mentorship, and enduring influence on the architectural landscape. His commitment to creating spiritual and functional spaces, his influence on future generations of architects, and his pioneering work in skyscraper design continue to shape the world of architecture today.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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