Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Rapid growth of local companies

• Upcoming LA Kings games

• A deep dive into the life of Walt Disney

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

Photo of the Week

Los Angeles 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!

The Griffith Observatory, a popular Los Angeles landmark, has made appearances in various films. In which groundbreaking 1955 film did the observatory play a significant role, becoming a symbol of youth culture in America?

A) "Rebel Without a Cause"

B) "East of Eden"

C) "On the Waterfront"

D) "The Wild One"

The Best Links of the Week

💼 Business

A special report highlighted the rapid growth experienced by several Los Angeles-based private companies over the last three years. Notably, Stability Healthcare, a Pasadena-based healthcare staffing firm, recorded a significant 733% increase in revenue, jumping from $33.4 million in 2020 to $278 million in 2022. (link)

The Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles reported a strong rebound in their activities. The Port of Long Beach handled 755,150 TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) in October, marking a 24% increase in imports from the previous year. Similarly, the Port of Los Angeles saw an 11% increase in imports, with 372,455 TEUs. Both ports experienced improvements in their year-over-year figures for October, indicating a robust recovery and positive expectations for the remainder of the year​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Thumzup Media Corporation has surged into the top 5% of active crowdfunding campaigns, raising over $4.6 million since its inception. The company, which has developed a mobile app that pays users for approved social media posts promoting brands, is seen as a disruptor in the multi-billion dollar advertising industry​​. (link)

An editorial discussed the end of Los Angeles' financial boon following the pandemic. With federal pandemic relief coming to a close and a potential recession looming, the city faces challenges in managing its budget. This shift in financial circumstances will likely impact funding decisions and city programs, including efforts to address homelessness and housing​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Following their defeat by the Raiders, the Los Angeles Chargers fired head coach Brandon Staley and general manager Tom Telesco. The team's performance led to this significant shake-up, with the Chargers standing at 5-9 after the loss. (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

🏀 Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Clippers (December 14): Experience the thrill as the LA Clippers face off against the Golden State Warriors at the Crypto.com Arena. This promises to be a high-energy NBA game showcasing some of the league's top talents. (link)

🏈 LA Bowl (December 16): Catch the excitement of college football at the LA Bowl, held at SoFi Stadium. Teams from the Mountain West Conference and Pac-12 Conference will compete in this anticipated bowl game. (link)

🏀 Knicks vs Clippers (December 16): Another chance to see the LA Clippers in action, this time against the New York Knicks at the Crypto.com Arena. Expect a dynamic and competitive basketball game filled with memorable moments. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Said The Sky, State Champs, Nurko, We The Kings & Emo Nite (December 15): This concert at The Torch at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum features a mix of artists, providing a unique blend of music genres and styles. (link)

🎵 Cattle Decapitation (December 15): Head to the Belasco Theater - LA for an intense night with Cattle Decapitation, a band known for their aggressive and powerful music performances. (link)

Family

🎭 Santa's Secret (December 15): Enjoy a magical holiday experience at Beverly Center with Santa's Secret, an event that promises to bring festive cheer and joy to families. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Los Angeles in a video game” and this is what I got.

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

Los Angeles Historical Events

Establishment of the Walt Disney Concert Hall (2003)

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, inaugurated in 2003, is an architectural and cultural icon in downtown Los Angeles. Designed by the acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, it's renowned for its innovative and visually stunning design, featuring sweeping metallic surfaces that have become a landmark in the city.

As the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the concert hall has significantly enhanced the city's music scene. Its state-of-the-art acoustics and intimate auditorium layout have been praised by both performers and audiences, creating an unparalleled experience for classical music concerts.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall not only serves as a major venue for musical performances but also acts as a symbol of Los Angeles' commitment to the arts. Its presence has contributed to the revitalization of the downtown area and has solidified the city's reputation as a global center for artistic and cultural innovation.

Famous People In LA History

Greta Garbo: 1905-1990

Greta Garbo was a Swedish-American actress known for her alluring presence and nuanced performances in the Hollywood film industry. She remains a symbol of cinematic mystery and glamour.

Early Life and Beginnings in Sweden (1905-1924) 

Born Greta Lovisa Gustafsson in Stockholm, Sweden, Garbo grew up in humble circumstances. Her natural talent for acting was evident from an early age. She studied at the Royal Dramatic Theatre’s Acting School in Stockholm, which paved the way for her early career in Swedish cinema.

Move to Hollywood and Early American Films (1925-1930) 

Garbo's transition to Hollywood came after she caught the attention of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) studio head Louis B. Mayer. Her first American film, "Torrent" (1926), was a success, and she quickly rose to stardom with a series of silent films.

Transition to Talkies and Rising Fame (1930-1939) 

With the advent of sound in cinema, Garbo successfully transitioned to talkies, beginning with "Anna Christie" (1930). Her famous line, "Gimme a whisky," along with her distinctive voice and accent, only added to her allure.

Iconic Roles and Acclaim (1940-1948) 

Garbo's career peaked in the 1930s with performances in films like "Grand Hotel," "Anna Karenina," and "Camille." Her ability to portray complex characters with depth and subtlety earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Retirement and Life Out of the Spotlight (1949-1980) 

Surprisingly, Garbo retired from acting in 1941, after the film "Two-Faced Woman." She chose to live a private life, shunning the spotlight and becoming known for her reclusive nature. Despite her withdrawal from public life, her legend continued to grow.

Legacy in Film and Popular Culture (1981-1990) 

Garbo's impact on film and popular culture is profound. She is remembered not only for her exceptional acting talent but also for her enigmatic and elusive persona, which made her a lasting figure of intrigue.

Recognition and Awards 

Garbo received multiple Academy Award nominations during her career and was awarded an honorary Oscar in 1954 for her unforgettable screen performances.

Influence on Acting and Cinematic Style 

Garbo's style of acting, marked by subtlety and depth, influenced future generations of actors. Her ability to convey emotion through nuanced expressions and gestures set new standards for film acting.

Enduring Icon of Hollywood's Golden Age 

Garbo is considered an icon of Hollywood's Golden Age, representing the glamour and artistry of early 20th-century cinema. Her films continue to be celebrated for their artistic and historical significance.

Key Achievements of Greta Garbo:

• Renowned for her performances in both silent and talking films.

• Nominated for multiple Academy Awards; received an honorary Oscar.

• Known for her distinctive acting style and screen presence.

• A pivotal figure in Hollywood’s transition to sound films.

• Remembered as a cinematic legend and an enduring Hollywood icon.

Greta Garbo's story is one of extraordinary talent and a lasting legacy in the film industry. Her contributions to cinema continue to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying her status as one of the greatest actresses of the 20th century.

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-Matthew Larsen