Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Childish Gambino & Rae Sremmurd performances

• White Sox considering relocation

• A deep dive into the life of Walt Disney

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself.”

– Lucille Ball

Chicago 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 famous author and journalist, known for his sharp wit and social commentary on American life, called Chicago home and based much of his work on the city?

A) Ernest Hemingway

B) Carl Sandburg

C) Saul Bellow

D) Nelson Algren

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Rumors surfaced about the possibility of the Chicago White Sox considering relocation, with Nashville mentioned as a potential destination. White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf reportedly met with Nashville's mayor, although the nature of the talks wasn't disclosed. (link)

🏦 Finance

The President of the Chicago Federal Reserve mentioned that it's too early to declare victory over inflation, even though there were signs of easing inflationary pressures without triggering a recession. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Chicago Bears showed significant improvement, notably in their defense, contributing to a win streak. They were preparing for an important matchup with the Cleveland Browns, with several Browns' offensive linemen injured, potentially giving the Bears an advantage. (link)

Coby White of the Chicago Bulls was reported to be playing the best basketball of his career, showcasing his development and potential as a key player for the team. (link)

Connor Bedard made NHL history with the Chicago Blackhawks, achieving a stunning goal against the Jets and recording his beautiful 10th career assist in another game, signaling his rising star status in the league. (link)

📰 News

The Federal Open Market Committee had decided against an additional rate hike, keeping the federal funds rate unchanged. This decision reflects ongoing efforts to balance economic growth and inflation control​​. (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

🏒 McCormick Tribune Ice Rink (December 4-10) Located at Millennium Park, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers a charming winter experience. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., it's a great spot for family-friendly fun, offering free ice skating in a picturesque setting. The rink is part of Chicago's winter traditions and is suitable for all ages. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Childish Gambino & Rae Sremmurd (December 8) This event at the United Center features two major artists known for their stunning vocals. This is one concert that can’t be missed. (link)

💡Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier (December 4-10) This winter experience includes an outdoor light display and various activities, including live musical performances. It's a festive event combining light shows and music​​. (link)

Family

🎭 Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella (December 4-10) Playing at the Drury Lane Theatre, this is a beautiful rendition of the classic fairytale. The production promises to be a magical experience, perfect for those who love timeless stories and enchanting performance. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Chicago inside a snow globe” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Chicago History

Chicago Jazz Festival (Established 1979)

The inauguration of the Chicago Jazz Festival in 1979 was a celebration of the city’s rich jazz heritage and a testament to its ongoing cultural vibrancy. The festival was initially held in Grant Park as a tribute to Duke Ellington, following his death in 1974. It quickly evolved into an annual event, drawing thousands of jazz enthusiasts from around the world. The festival showcases a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional New Orleans jazz to avant-garde, reflecting the genre’s evolution and Chicago's role in its development.

Featuring local talent alongside internationally acclaimed artists, the Chicago Jazz Festival has been instrumental in sustaining and revitalizing the jazz scene in Chicago. It provides a platform for emerging artists and has been a launching pad for many jazz musicians’ careers. The festival not only celebrates jazz music but also fosters a sense of community among artists and audiences, reinforcing the city’s commitment to preserving and advancing jazz as an art form.

The impact of the Chicago Jazz Festival extends beyond entertainment, contributing significantly to the city's cultural and economic vitality. It has become one of the most anticipated cultural events in Chicago, drawing visitors from across the globe and enhancing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for jazz music. The festival continues to embody the spirit of Chicago’s musical legacy, celebrating the city’s enduring influence on the jazz world.

Famous People In Chicago History

Walt Disney: 1901-1966

Walt Disney, an iconic figure in entertainment history, was born in Chicago, Illinois. His innovations in animation and theme park design have left an indelible mark on global culture, making him a household name.

Early Life in Chicago (1901-1906) 

Born on December 5, 1901, in Chicago's Hermosa neighborhood, Walt Disney spent his early childhood years in the city. The son of Elias Disney, a building contractor, and Flora Call Disney, Walt developed a love for drawing and art from a young age.

Family Relocation and Formative Years (1906-1917) 

The Disney family moved to Marceline, Missouri, in 1906, a period that Walt later recalled as a magical time that inspired much of his future work. His interest in art continued to grow, influenced by the rural landscapes and small-town life he experienced.

Return to Chicago and Early Education (1917-1919) 

In 1917, the Disney family returned to Chicago, where Walt attended McKinley High School. Here, he took drawing and photography classes and contributed cartoons for the school newspaper. His experiences in Chicago's vibrant urban setting contrasted sharply with his life in Marceline, broadening his perspectives.

Ambitions in Art and Early Career (1920-1927) 

After serving a brief stint in the Red Cross at the end of World War I, Disney pursued a career in art and animation. He worked at various studios, honing his skills and experimenting with new techniques, laying the groundwork for his future success.

Creation of Mickey Mouse and Rise to Fame (1928-1937) 

Disney created Mickey Mouse in 1928, introducing a character that would become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in entertainment history. The success of Mickey Mouse cartoons propelled Walt Disney and his studio to fame.

Snow White and Feature Films (1937-1940) 

In 1937, Disney released "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," the first full-length animated feature in color and with sound. This groundbreaking film opened new possibilities for animated storytelling and established Disney as a major figure in the film industry.

Expansion and Innovation (1941-1955) 

Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Disney continued to innovate. He expanded into different media, including television, and began planning for the opening of Disneyland, his most ambitious project.

Disneyland and Legacy (1955-1966) 

Disneyland opened in 1955 and was an instant success. It revolutionized the theme park industry and became a symbol of American culture. Walt Disney's vision for Disneyland was as a place where adults and children could enjoy experiences together.

Final Years and Continued Impact (1966-Present) 

Walt Disney passed away in 1966, but his legacy continues through the Walt Disney Company, his films, and theme parks around the world. His pioneering spirit in animation and entertainment remains a source of inspiration.

Key Achievements of Walt Disney:

• Co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, a leading entertainment enterprise.

• Creator of Mickey Mouse and pioneer in American animation.

• Producer of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," the first full-length animated feature film.

• Innovator in theme park design with the creation of Disneyland.

• Winner of 22 Academy Awards, holding the record for most Oscars won by an individual.

Walt Disney's story, beginning in Chicago and expanding to global prominence, is one of creativity, innovation, and enduring influence. His contributions to animation, film, and theme parks have reshaped the entertainment industry and brought joy to millions worldwide.

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

-Matthew Larsen