Chicago Newsletter (September 2nd)

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

Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Upcoming Chicago Cubs game.

  • Bally's to break ground on Chicago casino.

  • Roster cuts loom, ‘Turk’ is lurking.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

 “Mastery of life is not a question of control, but of finding a balance between human and being.” 

–Eckhart Tolle

Trivia

Which Chicago museum has a submarine, the U-505, on display?

A) The Field Museum

B) Museum of Science and Industry

C) Adler Planetarium

D) Chicago History Museum

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The famous outdoor sculpture in Chicago nicknamed 'The Picasso' is C) Untitled (Picasso).

News

💼Business

Bally's set to break ground this week on Chicago's first permanent casino. (link)

Chicago seeking administrator to oversee nonprofit capacity-building program. (link)

🏒Sports

Roster cuts loom for the Chicago Bears — and that means one thing: the ‘Turk’ is lurking. (link)

106, 119 and 120: 3 numbers the Chicago White Sox would like to avoid after reaching 100 losses. (link)

🏦Finance

Beidelman Furniture plans renovations for Naperville building after winning landmark status. (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 Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Monday, Sep 2nd | 6:40 PM | More Info

Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Wednesday, Sep 4th | 6:40 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎸 Jeezy: Playlist Concert
House of Blues Chicago, Chicago, IL
Monday, Sep 2nd | 7:00 PM | More Info

🎷 Powerwolf
Riviera Theatre- IL, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Sep 3rd | 8:00 PM | More Info

Family

🐦 The United Colors of Robert Earl Paige at Hyde Park Art Center
5020 S Cornell Ave, Chicago, IL
Monday, Sep 2nd | 10:00 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 a central park featuring exotic, genetically engineered plants” 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

1879: The first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, is built.

In 1879, the city of Chicago made architectural history with the construction of the Home Insurance Building, widely recognized as the world's first skyscraper. Designed by architect William Le Baron Jenney, this groundbreaking structure stood on the corner of Adams and LaSalle Streets and marked a significant departure from traditional building methods. The Home Insurance Building utilized an innovative iron skeleton framing, a defining feature of the Chicago School of Architecture, which set a precedent for skyscraper construction. Completed in 1885, the building's ten stories and 138-foot height were a testament to the city's pioneering spirit and technological advancement.

The Home Insurance Building's construction represented a pivotal moment in architectural history, showcasing the potential for vertical urban development and transforming the city's skyline. Its innovative design and structural approach laid the foundation for modern skyscrapers, influencing architectural practices worldwide. The building's legacy as a symbol of progress and innovation endures, and its impact on urban development and architectural design cannot be overstated. The Home Insurance Building remains a testament to Chicago's rich architectural heritage and its ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and design.

Although the Home Insurance Building was eventually demolished in 1931, its legacy lives on as a pioneering example of skyscraper construction and a testament to Chicago's enduring influence on architectural innovation. The building's impact on urban development and architectural design continues to be celebrated, and its historical significance as the world's first skyscraper remains a source of pride for the city of Chicago.

Famous People From Chicago

Sam Cooke (1931-1964) – Singer, songwriter.

Sam Cooke, born Samuel Cook in Clarksdale, Mississippi on January 22, 1931, was the son of Reverend Charles Cook, Sr., a Baptist minister, and Annie May Cook. The family moved to Chicago, Illinois, in 1933, where Sam Cooke grew up alongside his four brothers and three sisters - Willie, Charles Jr., L.C., David, Mary, Hattie, and Agnes. Cooke's early life in Chicago played a significant role in shaping his musical career and personal journey.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Sam Cooke's childhood in Chicago was marked by his early exposure to music and his passion for singing. At the age of six, he began singing in public, captivating passersby with his soulful voice. His talent and love for music led him to join a Chicago gospel group called the Highway QC's, where he became the lead singer at the young age of 15. This early experience in gospel music laid the foundation for Cooke's future success as a singer and performer.

Rise to Stardom and Influence

Cooke's transition from gospel to secular music marked a pivotal moment in his career. As he ventured into the world of rhythm and blues, he quickly gained recognition for his smooth, soulful voice and captivating stage presence. His breakthrough came in 1957 with the chart-topping hit "You Send Me," which propelled him to stardom and solidified his position as a trailblazing figure in the music industry. Cooke's influence extended beyond his musical talent, as he became a symbol of empowerment and inspiration for African American artists and audiences.

Chicago Roots and Legacy

Throughout his career, Cooke maintained a strong connection to his roots in Chicago. The city honored his legacy by renaming a portion of East 36th Street near Cottage Grove as "Sam Cooke Day" on December 17. This recognition served as a testament to Cooke's enduring impact on the city and his role as a cultural icon. Even after his untimely death in 1964, Cooke's legacy continued to resonate in Chicago, where 25,000 people gathered to pay their respects at his funeral. His influence on the music industry and his enduring legacy as the "King of Soul" solidified his place in history.

Key Achievements of Sam Cooke:

  • Chart-topping hit "You Send Me" in 1957

  • Transition from gospel to secular music

  • Enduring legacy as the "King of Soul"

  • Honored by the city of Chicago with "Sam Cooke Day"

  • Influence on African American artists and audiences

Sam Cooke's life and career exemplify the power of music to transcend boundaries and inspire generations. His journey from Chicago to international stardom reflects a legacy of resilience, creativity, and cultural impact that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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