Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming New York Mets home game

• Western New York tourism spending breaks records

• A deep dive into the life of Jacob Riis

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.”

—Juma Ikangaa

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!

Which New York City landmark is a historic immigration station and museum on Ellis Island?

A) The Statue of Liberty

B) Ellis Island Immigration Museum

C) The Tenement Museum

D) Castle Clinton

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The famous New York City public square known for its digital billboards and Broadway theaters is C) Times Square.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Western New York tourism spending breaks records. (link)

New York City Tour Bus Companies Defeat Rival’s Antitrust Claims. (link)

🏦Finance

Citigroup sees revenue boost in pursuit of small-business clients. (link)

🏒Sports

Yankees Unlikely To Pursue Superstar Slugger Due To Previous Scandal. (link)

Giants claim safety Anthony Johnson off waivers from Packers. (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 Mets vs. Cincinnati Reds
Citi Field Flushing, NY
Friday September 6 | 7:10 PM | (more info)

🏀 New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces
Barclays Center Brooklyn, NY
Sunday September 8 | 4:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Eric Tessmer
Iridium 1650 Broadway New York,
Thursday September 5 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎶 Elsie Fest
The Rooftop at Pier 17 New York, NY
Sunday September 8 | 6:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎭 Show Up, Kids!
Q.E.D. 27-16 23rd Avenue Queens, NY
Saturday, September 7 · 11 - 11:45am 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 “Urban landscape of New York City with a focus on pedestrian pathways and green spaces.” 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

1968: The Columbia University protests.

In 1968, Columbia University in New York City became a focal point of student activism and unrest, reflecting the broader social and political upheavals of the era. The protests began in April 1968, sparked by the university's plans to construct a gymnasium in Morningside Park, which was seen as a symbol of racial injustice and community displacement. Additionally, students opposed the university's involvement in military research related to the Vietnam War.

The protests quickly escalated as students occupied several campus buildings, including the iconic Low Library. The demands of the protesters included halting the gym construction, ending university ties with military research, and addressing broader issues of racial and social justice. The situation intensified over several days, leading to confrontations with university administration and law enforcement. On April 30, 1968, police forcibly removed the protesters, resulting in numerous injuries and arrests.

The Columbia University protests of 1968 had a lasting impact on the institution and the student movement in the United States. They highlighted the power of student activism and brought attention to issues of racial inequality, academic freedom, and opposition to the Vietnam War. The events led to significant changes in university policies and governance, as well as inspiring further protests and activism across the country. The legacy of the protests remains a significant chapter in the history of student movements and social change.

Famous New Yorkers In History

Jacob Riis (1849–1914): Journalist and social reformer.

Early Life and Immigration to America (1849-1870)

Jacob Riis was born in 1849 in Ribe, Denmark. His early life was marked by modest means and aspirations for a better future. In 1870, seeking new opportunities, Riis immigrated to the United States, arriving in New York City. This move would profoundly shape his career and contributions as a journalist and social reformer.

Struggles and Early Experiences in New York (1870-1880)

Riis's initial years in New York were challenging, as he faced the hardships of poverty and unemployment. These struggles gave him firsthand insights into the plight of the city's poor and working-class immigrants, experiences that would later inform his work and activism.

Journalism Career and Social Advocacy (1881-1890)

In the 1880s, Riis embarked on his career in journalism. He became a police reporter, a role that exposed him to the dire conditions in New York City's slums. His reporting began to focus on social reform, highlighting the living conditions of the poor and advocating for change.

How the Other Half Lives and Reform Impact (1890-1900)

Riis's landmark work, ""How the Other Half Lives,"" published in 1890, was a groundbreaking photojournalistic study of the living conditions in New York City slums. The book had a significant impact, raising public awareness and leading to urban reforms in housing, sanitation, and labor laws.

Continued Advocacy and Lecturing (1901-1910)

Following the success of his book, Riis continued his advocacy for social reform. He became a popular lecturer and public figure, using his platform to promote urban reform and social justice. His efforts contributed to the progressive movement and the improvement of living conditions in American cities.

Final Years and Reflection on Achievements (1911-1914)

In his final years, Riis reflected on his achievements and the impact of his work. He remained committed to his cause, advocating for social reform and better living conditions for the poor until his death in 1914.

Legacy and Influence in Social Reform (Post-1914)

Jacob Riis's legacy as a journalist and social reformer is profound. His pioneering use of photography in journalism and his advocacy for the urban poor transformed how social issues were reported and addressed. He is remembered as a key figure in the history of social reform in the United States.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered photojournalism with his groundbreaking work, ""How the Other Half Lives.""

• Raised awareness about the harsh realities of life in New York City slums, leading to significant urban reforms.

• Influential in the progressive movement, advocating for better housing, sanitation, and labor conditions.

• Left a lasting impact on journalism and social reform, inspiring future generations of reformers and activists.

Jacob Riis's journey from immigrant to influential journalist and social reformer embodies the spirit of American resilience and advocacy. His groundbreaking work in exposing the living conditions of New York's poorest residents catalyzed significant social reforms and set new standards for journalistic integrity and social responsibility.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen