Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Broadway under the stars

• Upcoming Knicks games

• Free admission day at the Brooklyn Museum

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”

-Chinese Proverb

My Goal For The Week

I plan to do five “tasks” per day that are consequential in terms of improving my life, business, etc. This seems like a sustainable pace that will lead to a nice balance of meaningful results, but not be too overwhelming to the point where I procrastinate.

One Idea For a Better Week

Use some form of “screen control” on your phone, iPad, computer, etc., and block out all negative news. I did this a year ago and it has been beautiful. No politics. No divisive social issues. No crime. Nothing.

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 was the original name of New York City before it was renamed in 1664?

A. New Amsterdam

B. New England

C. New Holland

D. New Paris

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

Before Central Park was established, which village resided in its place?

Answer: Seneca Village

The Best Links of the Week

💼 Business

On October 25, 2023, a surge of optimism swept through Wall Street as several heavyweight companies like Coca-Cola, General Electric, and 3M upgraded their outlooks for 2023. This positive adjustment spurred the major stock indexes upwards, hinting at a favorable economic outlook.

🏦 Finance

Financial leaders from 29 of the globe's most eminent international financial centers converged in New York for the AGM 2023, marking a momentous occasion in the city's financial sphere. The event symbolized a significant meeting of minds, poised to shape the financial strategies of tomorrow.

In a bid to keep the city's fiscal operations transparent and organized, the New York City Department of Finance published the tax calendar for October 2023. The document outlined the due dates for various tax filings and payments, offering a structured financial roadmap for individuals and businesses alike.

🏒 Sports

New York Giants' running back Saquon Barkley lauded Indianapolis Colts' Jonathan Taylor for securing a major contract extension.

The NFL Week 8 game saw a thrilling face-off between the New York Jets and New York Giants on October 29 at MetLife Stadium.

📰 News

On October 23, 2023, New York City witnessed a blend of traditional work structures and modern flexibility as Mayor Eric Adams expanded the remote work pilot program for city employees. This initiative reflects a progressive step towards accommodating the evolving work preferences of the modern-day workforce.

The New York City Department of Education, in a fresh move on October 26, unveiled a comprehensive digital literacy program aimed at bridging the technology gap among students. This initiative is poised to significantly bolster the city's education system by empowering the young generation with essential digital skills.

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 Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavalieres (November 1) Catch the thrill of an NBA game at Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks take on the Cleveland Cavalieres.

🏒New York Rangers vs. Carolina Hurricane (November 2) Experience the fast-paced action of an NHL game at Madison Square Garden, with the New York Rangers facing off against the Carolina Hurricane.

🏃New York City Marathon (November 5) Join thousands of participants and spectators in the iconic New York City Marathon, stretching across the city's vibrant neighborhoods, a true testament to endurance and community spirit.

Music & Concerts

🎵 Live Jazz at Dizzy's Club (November 2) Immerse yourself in the soothing yet energetic rhythms of live jazz at Dizzy's Club, with spectacular views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.

Events 

🏛️First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum (November 4) Explore the Brooklyn Museum on its free admission day, coupled with special programming and festivities making art accessible to all.

Hobbies 

🎨Paint and Sip Class (November 3) Unleash your inner artist in a relaxed, fun environment at Paint and Sip Studio NY, where you can create your own masterpiece while enjoying a glass of wine.

Family 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Central Park Zoo Adventure (November 2) Engage in a family-friendly adventure at the Central Park Zoo, exploring the wonders of wildlife in the heart of Manhattan.

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 as an underwater city” 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

Here are some of the most significant things to happen in The New York City history.

English Takeover and Rebranding as New York [1664]

In 1664, the cityscape of New Amsterdam underwent a transformative change when English forces asserted their dominance, taking control and renaming the city New York, a deliberate homage to the Duke of York. This event marked a crucial turning point, as the city, originally founded as a Dutch trading hub, was now integrated into the burgeoning British Empire. The inhabitants of the city found themselves amidst a profound shift, adapting to English laws, language, and customs.

This transition from Dutch to English rule did not just alter the city’s name; it reshaped its cultural and political fabric, steering New York onto a new trajectory of growth and development. While the city retained some of its original character, it increasingly began to reflect the values and systems of its English conquerors.

This moment in history was pivotal, setting the stage for New York’s future ascent as a global metropolis and a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and innovation. The English takeover and rebranding of New York were undeniably significant, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s rich and complex history.

Famous New Yorkers In History

George Gershwin (1898-1937)

George Gershwin, born in 1898 in Brooklyn, New York, was a prolific American composer and pianist whose compositions spanned both popular and classical genres. With a career cut tragically short at the age of 38, Gershwin left an indelible mark on the world of music, having composed some of the 20th century’s most recognizable and cherished pieces. His ability to blend different musical styles made his work innovative and timeless, and today, he is remembered as a quintessential American composer.

Early Life and Family [1898-1916] 

Born to Russian-Jewish immigrant parents, George was the second of four children. His family lived in the working-class neighborhoods of Brooklyn, where exposure to a melting pot of musical influences would profoundly shape his future works. The family owned a piano, initially intended for George’s older sibling, Ira, but it was George who showed a natural aptitude for the instrument.

Musical Education and Early Career [1916-1924] 

Gershwin left school at the age of 15 to pursue a career in music. He found his first job as a “song plugger” in Tin Pan Alley, where his duties included playing and promoting sheet music for publishers. Gershwin’s time in Tin Pan Alley was critical; he was immersed in the world of popular music, honing his skills in composition and orchestration. His first published song, “When You Want ’Em, You Can’t Get ’Em,” was released in 1916, signaling the beginning of his career as a composer.

Broadway Success and Rhapsody in Blue [1924-1929] 

Gershwin’s early success on Broadway, with shows like “Lady, Be Good!” and “Strike Up the Band,” cemented his reputation as a gifted composer. In 1924, he composed “Rhapsody in Blue,” a piece that seamlessly blended elements of classical music with jazz, showcasing Gershwin’s innovative approach to composition. This piece was groundbreaking, receiving critical acclaim and solidifying Gershwin’s place in the music world.

Porgy and Bess and The Height of His Career [1930-1935] 

In the 1930s, Gershwin’s career reached new heights with the creation of “Porgy and Bess,” an opera that told the story of African American life in Charleston, South Carolina. This work was significant, demonstrating Gershwin’s commitment to integrating African American musical influences into his compositions. “Porgy and Bess” included songs like “Summertime” and “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’,” which have since become American classics.

Exploration of New Genres and Hollywood [1936-1937] 

Gershwin continued to explore new musical territories, including a period in Hollywood where he composed music for films. His work in the film industry was marked by the same innovative spirit that characterized his earlier compositions, though his time in Hollywood was cut short.

Final Years and Legacy [1937] 

In 1937, Gershwin’s life came to an abrupt end when he died of a brain tumor at the age of 38. His untimely death was a profound loss to the music world, but his legacy lived on. Gershwin’s compositions continued to be celebrated and performed, his innovative approach to music influencing generations of musicians and composers.

George Gershwin: A Reflection 

George Gershwin’s life was a journey of musical exploration and innovation. From the streets of Brooklyn to the stages of Broadway and the studios of Hollywood, Gershwin’s compositions broke barriers, blending different musical styles and traditions. His ability to capture the spirit of America in his music made him one of the most beloved composers of the 20th century.

Achievements and Honors

• Composed “Rhapsody in Blue,” bridging the gap between classical and popular music.

• Created “Porgy and Bess,” a groundbreaking opera incorporating African American musical influences.

• Contributed significantly to the American musical theater with hit shows like “Lady, Be Good!” and “Strike Up the Band.”

• Pioneered the integration of jazz elements into classical compositions.

• Left an enduring legacy, with compositions that continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide.

George Gershwin’s life was a melody of innovation, creativity, and passion for music. His compositions remain a testament to his genius and his ability to capture the essence of American life in notes and rhythms.

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