Chicago Newsletter (September 12th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Upcoming Chicago White Sox games.

  • Cava opens Mediterranean restaurant in River Forest.

  • Lonzo shines, González excels at Paralympics.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“You have the power on your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

 –Marcus Aurelius

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Trivia

What is the name of the street that divides Chicago between north and south?

A) Michigan Avenue

B) State Street

C) Madison Street

D) Chicago Avenue

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual Chicago event known for dyeing the river green is C) St. Patrick's Day Parade.

News

💼 Business

Ridgeland Station Apartments near Chicago Ridge Mall hit the market. (link)

Cava sets grand opening for Mediterranean restaurant in River Forest. (link)

🏒 Sports

Chicago basketball report: Lonzo Ball shows off his shot in 5-on-5 runs — and Ixhelt González shines at Paralympics in Paris. (link)

Dusty Baker shares in his son Darren’s big-league ‘dream come true’ with call-up to the Washington Nationals. (link)

🏦 Finance

Illinois seeks to award $26 million in community development grants. (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 White Sox vs. Oakland Athletics
Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago, IL
Friday, Sep 13th | 6:40 PM | More Info

Chicago Fire FC vs. New York Red Bulls
Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Saturday, Sep 14th | 7:30 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎸 An Evening With Goose
The Salt Shed Outdoors (Fairgrounds), Chicago, IL
Thursday, Sep 12th | 6:30 PM | More Info

🎷 SELLOUT! 90s Vs. Emo Night
Reggies Rock Club 2109 South State Street Chicago, IL
Thursday, Sep 12th | 7:30 PM | More Info

Family

🐦 UniverSoul Circus
111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Thursday, Sep 12th | 11:00 AM | 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 buildings featuring interactive, kinetic facades” 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

1915: SS Eastland disaster.

The SS Eastland disaster of 1915 was a tragic event that took place in Chicago, resulting in the loss of 844 lives. The disaster occurred on July 24, 1915, when the steamer SS Eastland capsized in just 20 feet of water while still docked on the Chicago River. The ship was part of a fleet of five excursion boats assigned to take Western Electric employees, families, and friends across Lake Michigan to Michigan City, Indiana for a day of fun and fellowship. However, the festivities turned tragic as the Eastland overturned, leading to one of the largest losses of life from a single shipwreck on the Great Lakes.

The SS Eastland disaster is often overlooked despite the significant loss of life, with the death toll exceeding that of the sinking of the Titanic and the Lusitania. The disaster was likely a result of serious problems with the ship, and it is believed that the tragedy may not have occurred if not for the sinking of the Titanic three years earlier. The event has largely been forgotten today, but it remains a poignant part of Chicago's history, serving as a reminder of the devastating impact of maritime disasters.

The Eastland disaster is a somber chapter in Chicago's history, and the memory of the lives lost continues to be honored. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime safety and the need to remember and learn from past disasters to prevent similar events in the future.

Famous People From Chicago

Robert Johnson (1911-1938) – Blues singer, musician.

Robert Johnson, a legendary blues musician, was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi on or around May 8, 1911. His life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the world of music, influencing generations of musicians with his exceptional talent and groundbreaking recordings.

Early Life and Musical Roots

Robert Leroy Johnson was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, in 1911, the 11th child of Julia Major Dodds. Born illegitimate, Johnson's early life was marked by hardship and adversity. Despite his challenging circumstances, he displayed a natural inclination towards music and developed a passion for the blues at a young age.

The Delta Blues Influence

Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, Johnson was immersed in the rich musical traditions of the region. He drew inspiration from the Delta blues, a genre characterized by its raw, emotive style and deeply personal lyrics. Johnson's exposure to this musical landscape laid the foundation for his future career as a blues musician.

Musical Career and Chicago Connection

In the 1930s, Robert Johnson's musical journey led him to Chicago, a city known for its vibrant blues scene. It was in Chicago that Johnson honed his craft, performing at local venues and collaborating with other prominent blues musicians. His time in Chicago played a pivotal role in shaping his musical style and expanding his influence within the blues community.

Landmark Recordings and Legacy

Johnson's landmark recordings in 1936 and 1937 showcased his exceptional singing, guitar skills, and songwriting talent. These recordings, including iconic songs like "Cross Road Blues" and "Sweet Home Chicago," solidified his status as a pioneering figure in the blues genre. Johnson's influence on later generations of musicians is evident in the enduring legacy of his music.

Tragic Passing and Enduring Influence

Tragically, Robert Johnson's life was cut short when he passed away in 1938 at the young age of 27. Despite his untimely death, his impact on the world of music has endured, with his contributions to the blues genre continuing to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.

Key Achievements of Robert Johnson:

  • Pioneering figure in the Delta blues genre, influencing generations of musicians.

  • Landmark recordings in 1936 and 1937 that showcased his exceptional singing, guitar skills, and songwriting talent.

  • Influence on the Chicago blues scene, contributing to the city's rich musical heritage.

  • Enduring legacy as a groundbreaking blues musician, with his music continuing to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

In summary, Robert Johnson's life and legacy as a blues musician have left an indelible mark on the world of music. His pioneering contributions to the Delta blues genre, landmark recordings, and enduring influence on the Chicago blues scene have solidified his status as a legendary figure in music history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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