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Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Escalator Fire Briefly Evacuates JFK Terminal

• Upcoming New York Yankees home game

• A deep dive into the life of John Lennon

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.”

–Paulo Coelho

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New York City 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!

What is the name of the New York City park known for its large meadow and the Bethesda Fountain?

A) Prospect Park

B) Central Park

C) Flushing Meadows Park

D) Battery Park

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The bridge that was the world's longest suspension bridge upon its completion in 1883 is C) The Brooklyn Bridge.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

New York’s Largest Hospital System Is Setting Its Sights on the Entertainment Business. (link)

Terminal at New York's JFK Airport briefly evacuated due to escalator fire. (link)

🏦Finance

Bosch to buy Johnson Controls air-conditioning assets in $8 billion deal. (link)

🏒Sports

Michael Rubin bringing some of the biggest names in sports to massive NYC event. (link)

Langston Galloway helps USA Basketball prepare for the Olympics. (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

⚾ New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays
Yankee Stadium Bronx, NY
Friday Aug 2 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

⚾ New York Boulders vs. Tri-City ValleyCats
Clover Stadium Pomona, NY
Saturday Aug 3 | 6:30 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Sad Summer Festival 2024 - Presented By Journeys and Converse
The Rooftop at Pier 17 New York, NY
Thursday Aug 1 | 2:00 PM | (more info)

🎺 John Pizzarelli & The Swing 7
Birdland Jazz Club 315 West 44th Street New York,
Saturday August 3 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🎉 The Kidz Kraze Concert! | #1 Kids Concert Of Summer 2024
The Luxe Library 627 West Merrick Road Valley Stream, NY
Friday, August 2 · 6 - 8pm EDT | (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 “New York City with interactive, educational playgrounds for all ages..” and this is what I got.

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

New York City History

1849: Astor Place Riot.

The Astor Place Riot of 1849 was a violent clash that erupted in New York City, highlighting deep social and cultural divisions. The riot occurred on May 10, 1849, at the Astor Place Opera House, where a rivalry between two famous actors—American Edwin Forrest and Englishman William Charles Macready—escalated into a deadly confrontation. The conflict reflected broader tensions between different social classes and nationalities within the city.

Forrest, a popular American actor, was seen as a champion of the working-class and native-born Americans, while Macready was favored by the city's elite and British expatriates. On the night of May 10, a mob of Forrest's supporters gathered outside the opera house, protesting Macready's performance. The situation quickly turned violent as the mob clashed with police and state militia, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 people and injuries to over 150.

The Astor Place Riot underscored the volatile mix of cultural pride, class resentment, and ethnic tensions in mid-19th century New York City. The event prompted city leaders to reconsider policies related to public safety and crowd control. It also highlighted the power of popular entertainment to stir public emotions and the deep-seated conflicts that could arise from cultural rivalries. The riot remains a significant episode in the city's history, illustrating the complexities of its social fabric during a period of rapid growth and change.

Famous New Yorkers In History

John Lennon (1940–1980): Singer, songwriter, and peace activist.

Early Life and The Beatles (1940–1969)

John Winston Lennon was born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England. Raised by his aunt Mimi after his parents separated, Lennon developed a passion for music as a teenager, forming his first band, The Quarrymen, in 1956. This band eventually evolved into The Beatles, one of the most influential and successful music groups in history. With bandmates Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, Lennon achieved global fame and transformed popular music with hits like ""Help!,"" ""Strawberry Fields Forever,"" and ""Imagine."" Lennon's songwriting partnership with McCartney produced some of the most enduring songs of the 20th century.

Move to New York City and Solo Career (1970–1975)

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon embarked on a solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as ""John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band"" and ""Imagine."" In 1971, he moved to New York City with his wife, Yoko Ono, seeking a fresh start and a vibrant artistic community. New York City provided Lennon with a platform for his activism and creativity, allowing him to engage with a diverse and dynamic cultural scene. His song ""Imagine"" became an anthem for peace and remains one of his most celebrated works. Lennon's time in New York was marked by both musical innovation and outspoken political activism.

Connection to New York City (Throughout Career)

New York City was integral to John Lennon's life and work during his later years. The city offered him a sense of anonymity and freedom that he cherished, away from the intense scrutiny he faced in England. Lennon and Ono settled in the Dakota Apartments, near Central Park, where they became well-known figures in the local community. Lennon's connection to the city was also reflected in his activism, as he became involved in various political causes and protests. His influence extended beyond music, making significant cultural and social contributions to the city he called home.

Tragic Death and Legacy (1980–Present)

On December 8, 1980, John Lennon was tragically shot and killed outside his residence at the Dakota Apartments in New York City. His death was a profound loss to the music world and his legions of fans worldwide. Lennon's legacy endures through his music, his messages of peace and love, and his impact on popular culture. Annual memorial events in New York, such as the gathering at Strawberry Fields in Central Park, continue to honor his memory. His contributions to music and activism have left an indelible mark on the city and the world.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founder of The Beatles, one of the most influential music groups in history.

• Successful solo career with iconic songs like ""Imagine"" and ""Give Peace a Chance.""

• Prominent peace activist and cultural figure in New York City.

John Lennon's journey from Liverpool to New York City encapsulates his extraordinary impact on music and culture. His connection to New York provided a vibrant backdrop for his creative and activist endeavors. Lennon's legacy as a musician, peace activist, and cultural icon continues to inspire and resonate, making him a timeless figure in both the city and the world.

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

-Matthew Larsen