New York City Newsletter (September 9th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Upcoming New York Yankees home games

  • NY Business Elite Back Fashion Merger

  • A deep dive into the life of Benny Goodman

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"Not all those who wander are lost."

—J.R. R. Tolkein

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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!

In which New York City borough is the famous Flushing Meadows Corona Park, known for the Unisphere and hosting the U.S. Open tennis tournament, located?

A) Manhattan

B) Brooklyn

C) Queens

D) The Bronx

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The landmark that is a historic immigration station and museum on Ellis Island is B) Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

New York business elite rally in favour of fashion merger. (link)

NYC’s Biggest Taxi Insurer Is Insolvent, Risking Transit Meltdown. (link)

🏦Finance

Former top aide to New York Gov. Hochul charged with acting as foreign agent for China. (link)

🏒Sports

New York Jets Set for Franchise-Altering Season per Latest Simulation. (link)

Brian Daboll finally confirms he’s taking over Giants’ play-calling duties. (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. Kansas City Royals
Yankee Stadium Bronx, NY
Monday, September 9 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

⚾ New York Yankees vs. Kansas City Royals
Yankee Stadium Bronx, NY
Wednesday, September 11 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸Stanley Jordan
Iridium 1650 Broadway New York,
Monday, September 9 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎤 Sinead Harnett
Webster Hall New York, NY
Tuesday, September 10 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎶 Kids Concert with Mike Messer Music
542 West 36th Street New York,
Tuesday, September 10 · 10:30 - 11:15am 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 a central park featuring exotic, genetically engineered plants.” 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

1971: The opening of the World Trade Center.

In 1971, New York City saw the opening of the World Trade Center, a monumental addition to the city's skyline and a symbol of global commerce. The complex, designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki and developed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, featured the iconic Twin Towers, which stood as the tallest buildings in the world at the time. The north tower officially opened on December 15, 1970, followed by the south tower in 1971.

The construction of the World Trade Center was a massive undertaking, involving innovative engineering techniques to create the 110-story skyscrapers. The towers were designed with a unique ""tube"" structure, allowing for open floor plans and exceptional strength. The World Trade Center quickly became a hub for international business, housing offices for companies from around the world and attracting thousands of visitors daily to its observation decks and shopping concourse.

The opening of the World Trade Center marked a significant milestone in New York City's development, symbolizing its role as a global financial capital. The complex became an integral part of the city's identity and economic infrastructure. Although tragically destroyed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the World Trade Center's legacy endures, remembered for its architectural significance and its impact on the city's economy and skyline.

Famous New Yorkers In History

Benny Goodman (1909–1986): Jazz and swing musician and bandleader.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1909–1926)

Benny Goodman was born on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, Illinois, to a poor Jewish family. From a young age, Goodman exhibited a prodigious talent for music, particularly the clarinet. He received his first clarinet at the age of 10 and began taking lessons at the local synagogue. Goodman's early exposure to jazz came through Chicago's vibrant music scene, where he played in various bands and orchestras. His exceptional skill quickly set him apart as a rising star in the world of jazz.

Rise to Fame and the Swing Era (1927–1939)

In the late 1920s, Benny Goodman moved to New York City, where he joined the Ben Pollack Orchestra and later worked as a session musician for several prominent jazz and dance bands. His big break came in 1934 when he formed his own band and secured a spot on the popular radio show ""Let's Dance."" Goodman's innovative arrangements and virtuosic clarinet playing helped propel the swing movement to national prominence. In 1935, his band's performance at the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles marked the beginning of the Swing Era, making Goodman a household name.

Connection to New York City (Throughout Career)

New York City was the epicenter of Benny Goodman's career. The city's vibrant jazz scene provided endless opportunities for collaboration and performance. Goodman frequently played at iconic venues such as the Paramount Theatre, the Savoy Ballroom, and Carnegie Hall. His historic concert at Carnegie Hall in 1938, considered one of the most important events in jazz history, showcased the full range of his band's talent and helped legitimize jazz as a serious art form. Goodman's connection to New York was integral to his success and influence in the jazz world.

Innovations and Integration (1940–1959)

Benny Goodman was not only a brilliant musician but also a pioneer in the integration of jazz bands. In the early 1940s, he hired African American musicians such as pianist Teddy Wilson, vibraphonist Lionel Hampton, and guitarist Charlie Christian, breaking racial barriers in the music industry. Goodman's commitment to excellence and equality helped pave the way for future generations of musicians. His recordings from this period, including collaborations with these artists, are celebrated for their innovation and artistry.

Later Career and Continued Influence (1960–1986)

In the later years of his career, Benny Goodman continued to perform, record, and tour internationally. He explored various musical styles, including classical music, and collaborated with renowned composers and orchestras. Goodman's versatility and dedication to his craft ensured his continued relevance in the ever-evolving music landscape. He received numerous awards and honors, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986. Goodman's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the development of jazz and swing music.

Legacy and Recognition (1986–Present)

Benny Goodman passed away on June 13, 1986, but his legacy endures through his extensive recordings and contributions to jazz and swing music. He is remembered as the ""King of Swing"" and a pivotal figure in the history of American music. Goodman's work continues to inspire musicians and listeners worldwide, and his role in breaking down racial barriers remains a significant part of his legacy. His recordings and performances are still celebrated, and his impact on the music industry is commemorated through various tributes and retrospectives.

Key Achievements:

  • Led the Benny Goodman Orchestra, which popularized swing music and marked the beginning of the Swing Era.

  • Performed the historic 1938 concert at Carnegie Hall, legitimizing jazz as a serious art form.

  • Pioneered the integration of jazz bands by hiring African American musicians and breaking racial barriers.

Benny Goodman's journey from a young clarinet prodigy in Chicago to the ""King of Swing"" in New York City reflects his extraordinary talent and influence on American music. His connection to New York was central to his career, providing the platform for his groundbreaking performances and innovations. Goodman's legacy as a pioneering bandleader and virtuoso musician continues to inspire and influence, ensuring his place as a key figure in the history of jazz and swing music.

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-Matthew Larsen

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