Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Chicago Symphony Orchestra performances

• Upcoming Bulls home games

• A deep dive into the life of Gwendolyn Brooks

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

Photo of the Week

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!

The Ferris wheel is a globally recognized amusement ride. Its first prototype was built for the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. What was the original purpose of introducing the Ferris wheel at the fair?

A) To provide a unique view of the fairgrounds

B) To rival the Eiffel Tower in Paris

C) To test engineering limits of steel constructions

D) To celebrate the industrial might of Chicago

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

The Chicago City Council voted to postpone the implementation of a new law that would ensure most Chicago workers receive at least 10 days of paid time off every year. The law, originally set to take effect on December 31, has been delayed until July 1. This delay provides Illinois workers outside Chicago more flexibility for paid time off than those in the city, as a statewide measure will require employers to give their workers at least one hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked from January 1​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Former Chicago Inspector General Joseph Ferguson has been named the new president of the Civic Federation, a business-backed watchdog group. Ferguson aims to collaborate with elected leaders on auditing functions to improve government efficiency. He is known for his extensive experience in investigating issues related to public safety, waste, fraud, and corruption in Chicago government. His tenure at the Civic Federation began on January 16​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Chicago Bulls faced a demanding back-to-back schedule, playing against the reigning NBA champions just one night after an overtime battle with a division rival. Despite the tough schedule, there was optimism around the potential return of Alex Caruso to the floor, adding to the Bulls' resilience in the face of challenging matchups​​. (link)

Chicago Bulls Community Engagement (December 12): In a heartwarming community event, the Chicago Bulls hosted 30 students from South Loop Elementary for a 3×3 tournament at their practice facility. The entire Bulls team participated as coaches for the students, who were also surprised with Bulls tickets and other gifts. This event highlights the Bulls' commitment to community engagement and youth involvement in sports​​. (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 Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers (December 20): This game features the Bulls going head-to-head with the Lakers, another marquee matchup in the NBA. (link)

🏀 Chicago Bulls vs. San Antonio Spurs (December 21): The Bulls will face off against the Spurs in this midweek game, adding another exciting event to their home schedule. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎺 Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass (December 19): Enjoy a captivating performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass at the Chicago Symphony Center at 7:30 PM. (link)

🎹 Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Sir Andrew Davis - Handel's Messiah (December 21): A rendition of Handel's Messiah by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Chicago Symphony Center at 7:30 PM. (link)

Family

🎼 The Ellington Strayhorn Nutcracker (December 20): Experience a unique take on the classic Nutcracker at the Auditorium Theatre - IL. Shows are at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. (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 in a video game” 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

Founding of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (1891)

In 1891, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) was founded, marking a significant moment in the city's cultural history. Theodore Thomas, a renowned conductor, established the orchestra with a vision of creating a permanent symphonic ensemble. The CSO quickly gained a reputation for its artistic excellence, attracting prominent composers and soloists from around the world. Its inaugural concert, held at the Auditorium Theatre, was a resounding success, setting a high standard for future performances.

The CSO played a pivotal role in elevating Chicago's status as a center for classical music. Under the leadership of distinguished conductors like Thomas, Frederick Stock, and, more recently, Sir Georg Solti and Riccardo Muti, the orchestra has consistently delivered performances of exceptional quality. The CSO has premiered many important works, contributing significantly to the development of classical music both nationally and internationally.

Over the years, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has become one of the most respected and celebrated orchestras in the world. It continues to enrich Chicago’s cultural landscape, fostering a deep appreciation for classical music within the community. The CSO's enduring legacy is not only in its musical achievements but also in its commitment to music education and outreach, making classical music accessible to diverse audiences across the city.

Famous People In Chicago History

Gwendolyn Brooks: 1917-2000

Gwendolyn Brooks was an American poet, author, and teacher, notable for her vivid and poignant portrayals of urban African American life. Born in Topeka, Kansas, but raised in Chicago, Brooks' work was heavily influenced by the city's dynamic cultural landscape. She became a leading literary figure, using her voice to address social issues, particularly race and inequality.

Early Life and Formative Years in Chicago (1917-1934) 

Born on June 7, 1917, Gwendolyn Brooks moved to Chicago at a young age. Her family settled in the South Side, which would play a significant role in shaping her perspective and work. Brooks developed an interest in writing and poetry early in her life, influenced by the rich cultural atmosphere of Chicago's African American community.

Education and Early Literary Influences (1934-1945) 

Brooks attended several Chicago schools, including the prestigious Hyde Park High School. Her early encounters with racial prejudice and her experiences in racially diverse environments profoundly influenced her writing. Brooks published her first poem in a children’s magazine at 13 and continued to pursue writing throughout her youth.

First Published Works and Recognition (1945-1950) 

In 1945, Brooks published her first poetry collection, "A Street in Bronzeville," drawing critical acclaim. This work captured the essence of life in a Chicago neighborhood, showcasing her keen observations and lyrical prowess. Her poetry was celebrated for its unflinching portrayal of urban life and the complexities of Black identity.

Pulitzer Prize and Rising Fame (1950-1960) 

Brooks achieved a significant milestone in 1950 when she won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for her book "Annie Allen," becoming the first African American to receive this prestigious award. The collection, centering on an African American girl's coming-of-age in Chicago, was praised for its emotional depth and technical mastery.

Engagement with the Civil Rights Movement (1960-1970) 

During the 1960s, Brooks became more actively engaged with the Civil Rights Movement. Her work during this period reflected a more direct engagement with social and political issues, and she became an important voice in the movement, using her writing to advocate for racial equality.

Teaching and Mentoring (1970-1985) 

Brooks dedicated much of her later life to teaching and mentoring young writers, particularly those from Chicago. She taught at several institutions and conducted numerous workshops for young African American poets, encouraging them to use their voices for artistic expression and social commentary.

Poet Laureate and Later Recognition (1985-2000) 

In 1985, Brooks was appointed Poet Laureate of Illinois, a position she held until her death. She received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the National Book Foundation's Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.

Final Years and Legacy (1995-2000) 

Brooks remained active in the literary community until her death in 2000. Her legacy lives on through her influential works, her contributions to American literature, and her role as a mentor to aspiring poets.

Key Achievements of Gwendolyn Brooks:

• First African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.

• Renowned for her vivid portrayals of urban African American life.

• A significant literary voice in the Civil Rights Movement.

• Illinois Poet Laureate and influential mentor to young writers.

• Her work remains a powerful influence on American poetry and literature.

Gwendolyn Brooks' story is a testament to the power of poetry to capture the human experience and effect social change. Her contributions to American literature, rooted in her Chicago upbringing, continue to inspire and resonate with readers and poets alike.

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-Matthew Larsen