New York City Newsletter (February 5th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in NYC.

Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • New jerseys revealed for NYC teams

  • Upcoming Nets home games

  • A deep dive into the life of Lou Gehrig

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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 New York City's tallest building as of 2021?

A) Empire State Building

B) One World Trade Center

C) Chrysler Building

D) 432 Park Avenue

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The largest park in Manhattan is A) Central Park.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Unveiling of new jerseys for local teams, which has implications for merchandise sales and team branding. (link)

The Mets announce businesses to be featured in ‘Taste of Queens’ in Citi Field during the 2024 season, reflecting partnerships and local business engagement. (link)

NYC ranked as the top city where pickleball is thriving, indicating growing interest and potential business opportunities in sports facilities and equipment sales​​​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Financial implications of contract negotiations for major players like Saquon Barkley and Juan Soto, affecting team finances and salary caps. (link)

The growth of sports betting in NYC, as reflected by the numerous betting promos, indicating a significant stream of revenue and financial transactions​​​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

New York Giants - Discussions and speculations around the future of key players like Saquon Barkley and the quarterback situation, including potential draft strategies. (link)

New York Yankees - Focus on Juan Soto's future with the team and potential contract negotiations. (link)

New York Knicks - Highlights from their winning streak and an injury update on Julius Randle. (link)

New York Islanders - Team's strategies and philosophies under Patrick Roy and their performance heading into the All-Star break. (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

🏀 Brooklyn Nets vs. Golden State Warriors
Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Monday, Feb. 5th, 2024 at 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🏒 New York Rangers vs. Colorado Avalanche
Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
Monday, Feb. 5th, 2024 at 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Brooklyn Nets vs. Dallas Mavericks
Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Tuesday, Feb. 6th, 2024 at 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🏀 New York Knicks vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
Tuesday, Feb. 6th, 2024 at 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Billy Joel
Madison Square Garden
Friday, Feb. 9th at 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎵 Mr. Big
Sony Hall
Tuesday, Feb. 6th at 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
234 W 42nd St
Ongoing | (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 within a giant biodome” and this is what I got. It seems AI can’t put the statue of liberty in the correct location.

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

New York City History

The British capture of New York in the American Revolutionary War (1776)

In 1776, amidst the tumult of the American Revolutionary War, New York City became a focal point of conflict and strategy. The British capture of New York marked a significant military and psychological victory for the British forces, underlining the city's strategic importance and its symbolic value in the fight for control between the British Crown and the emerging American nation. This event was not just a military operation but a crucial moment that shaped the course and character of the war.

The occupation of New York by British forces turned the city into a pivotal military base, from which the British could launch operations and assert their dominance in the region. The city's harbors, infrastructure, and resources made it an invaluable asset, and its capture was a blow to the morale and strategic position of the Continental Army. However, this occupation also set the stage for acts of resistance, espionage, and the relentless pursuit of independence by the American forces and their allies.

The British capture of New York in 1776 is a testament to the city's enduring significance and resilience. It reflects the complex tapestry of American history, where moments of conflict and adversity have often paved the way for growth, unity, and a renewed commitment to the ideals of freedom and self-determination. The events of that year left an indelible mark on the city and the nation, reminding us of the tumultuous path toward the establishment of the United States of America.

Famous New Yorkers In History

Lou Gehrig (1903–1941)

Early Life and Passion for Baseball (1903-1922)

Lou Gehrig, born Heinrich Ludwig Gehrig on June 19, 1903, in New York City, grew up in a humble German-American family. From a young age, Gehrig showed a strong interest and talent in baseball, playing the game in the streets and parks of Manhattan. His passion for the sport was evident as he excelled at Commerce High School and later at Columbia University, where he continued to showcase his baseball skills.

Rise to Fame with the New York Yankees (1923-1930)

Gehrig joined the New York Yankees in 1923, beginning what would become a legendary career in Major League Baseball. Initially playing in minor roles, Gehrig soon established himself as a formidable first baseman. His powerful hitting and reliable fielding contributed significantly to the team's success.

Consistency and "The Iron Horse" (1931-1935)

Gehrig earned the nickname "The Iron Horse" for his durability and consistency. From 1925 to 1939, he set a record by playing in 2,130 consecutive games, a testament to his physical endurance and commitment to the sport.

Peak Performance and Record-Breaking Achievements (1936-1938)

During the mid-1930s, Gehrig was at the peak of his career. He consistently ranked among the top players in batting averages, home runs, and runs batted in (RBIs). His performance helped lead the Yankees to multiple World Series championships.

Yankees Captaincy and Leadership (1939)

Gehrig was named captain of the Yankees in 1935, a role he took seriously. His leadership on and off the field was highly respected by teammates and fans alike.

Diagnosis and Retirement (1939)

In 1939, Gehrig's health began to decline. He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating disease that would later be commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. This diagnosis led to his retirement from baseball.

Farewell Speech and Legacy (July 4, 1939)

On July 4, 1939, Gehrig gave a farewell speech at Yankee Stadium, famously declaring himself "the luckiest man on the face of the earth." This speech remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history.

Post-Retirement and Death (1941)

After retiring, Gehrig briefly served as a New York City parole commissioner. However, his health rapidly deteriorated, and he passed away on June 2, 1941, at the age of 37.

Lou Gehrig’s Key Achievements:

  • Seven-time All-Star and two-time American League MVP.

  • Set a then-record for consecutive games played, which stood for 56 years.

  • Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

  • His legacy includes the establishment of Lou Gehrig's Day in MLB to raise awareness for ALS.

Lou Gehrig's career with the New York Yankees made him a baseball legend. Known for his remarkable endurance, powerful hitting, and humble demeanor, Gehrig left an indelible mark on the sport. His courage in facing ALS and his iconic farewell speech have continued to inspire both athletes and non-athletes. Gehrig remains a symbol of resilience, sportsmanship, and grace in the face of adversity.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen