Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• LADWP launches program for easier billing and to save water

• Upcoming Los Angeles Kings game

• A deep dive into the life of Natalie Wood

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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!

Which Los Angeles museum is famous for its outdoor Urban Light installation?

A) The Getty Center

B) The Broad

C) Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

D) The Museum of Contemporary Art

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

 The iconic Los Angeles beach known for its boardwalk and Muscle Beach is C) Venice Beach.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

StarPoint announced the launch of new developments in Phoenix and Denver, expanding its real estate portfolio. (Link)

A San Gabriel asset secured a $32 million loan, highlighting significant financial activity in the local real estate market. (Link)

Platinum Equity, based in Beverly Hills, kicked off the year actively with four acquisitions and a sale, marking a busy start. (Link)

🏦 Finance

LADWP launched "Level Pay" for easier billing and "Turf Replacement" to save water. (Link)

The Genesis Invitational boosted local charities and the LA economy through sports tourism. (Link)

Palantir Technologies' stock changes reflected tech sector trends, impacting LA's economy. (Link)

🏒 Sports

USC Trojans focused on defensive improvements by recruiting promising talent Samuel Okunlola, aiming to revitalize their defense for the upcoming season​​. (Link)

Los Angeles Dodgers had a promising meeting with Shohei Ohtani, discussing his potential return to pitching, sparking hope for a strong season. (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

🏀 Sacramento Kings at LA Clippers
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Monday, Feb 25th | (More info)

🏒 Anaheim Ducks at Los Angeles Kings
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Sunday, Feb 24th | (More info)

🏒 Columbus Blue Jackets at Los Angeles Kings
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Tuesday, Feb 20th | (More info)

Music & Performances

🎶 La Santa Cecilia
The Luckman Fine Arts Complex, Los Angeles
Saturday, Feb. 24th | (More info)

🎵 Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni ba
Lodge Room, Los Angeles
Thursday, Feb. 22nd | (More info)

Family Friendly events

🎈 Open Screen LA - February
South Pasadena Public Library, CA
Tuesday, Feb 20th | (More info)

🍔 February Foster Youth Flea Market!
Dam Good Coffee, Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, Feb 24th | (More info)

🎨 Christian Club on February 24! [Club 2:17]
4310 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, Feb 24th | (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 “Los Angeles streets bustling with holographic advertisements” 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 History

1903: The opening of the Los Angeles Aqueduct, a major water supply project

In 1903, the city of Los Angeles witnessed a transformative event with the opening of the Los Angeles Aqueduct. This monumental project, which was designed to meet the burgeoning water demands of a rapidly growing population, marked a significant milestone in the region's development. The aqueduct was an engineering marvel of its time, stretching over 200 miles to transport water from the Owens Valley to the arid landscape of Los Angeles.

The construction of the aqueduct was driven by the vision and determination of William Mulholland, the head of the city's water department. Despite facing numerous challenges, including difficult terrain and political opposition, the project moved forward, symbolizing the relentless spirit of progress that defined the era. The completion of the aqueduct not only demonstrated human ingenuity and engineering prowess but also underscored the importance of water management in the development of modern cities.

The opening of the Los Angeles Aqueduct had far-reaching impacts, reshaping the socio-economic landscape of the region. It facilitated urban expansion, agricultural development, and industrial growth, propelling Los Angeles into a major metropolis. However, the project also had environmental and social repercussions, particularly for the communities in Owens Valley. The aqueduct's legacy is a testament to the complexities of natural resource management and the profound ways in which human endeavors can alter the environment and society.

Famous People From Los Angeles

Natalie Wood (1938–1981)

Early Beginnings and Family Life (1938-1950)

Natalie Wood, born on July 20, 1938, in San Francisco, California, began her acting career at a young age. She was the daughter of Russian immigrants, Maria and Nikolai Zakharenko, who nurtured her early interest in show business. Her talent was evident from her very first roles, where she captured hearts with her charisma.

Child Actress and Rising Star (1950-1955)

Wood transitioned from small roles to stardom with her performance in Miracle on 34th Street (1947). As a child actress, she continued to work steadily, honing her craft in a variety of roles. This period laid the groundwork for her future success in Hollywood.

Teenage Roles and Rebel Without a Cause (1955-1959)

As a teenager, Wood's career took a significant turn with Rebel Without a Cause (1955), earning her an Academy Award nomination. This role established her as a serious actress and a symbol of youthful angst.

Leading Lady and Critical Acclaim (1960-1965)

In the early 1960s, Wood's career peaked with leading roles in West Side Story (1961) and Splendor in the Grass (1961). Her performances in these films garnered critical acclaim and solidified her position as a leading lady in Hollywood.

Personal Life and Public Image (1965-1970)

Wood's personal life, including her marriages to Robert Wagner and Richard Gregson, and her relationship with Warren Beatty, was the subject of much public interest. She balanced her personal life with a demanding career, navigating the pressures of fame.

Career Challenges and Resilience (1971-1975)

In the early 1970s, Wood faced challenges in her career but demonstrated resilience. She took on diverse roles in films like Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969), showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Return to the Screen and Stage (1976-1980)

After a brief hiatus and becoming a mother, Wood returned to acting with renewed vigor. She appeared in television productions and made her stage debut, receiving praise for her performances.

Tragic and Mysterious Death (1981)

Wood's life tragically ended on November 29, 1981, under mysterious circumstances during a boating trip. Her death was a profound loss to the entertainment world and her fans globally.

Natalie Wood's Legacy (Posthumous Recognition)

Posthumously, Wood's films have continued to be celebrated. She remains an iconic figure in Hollywood, remembered for her beauty, talent, and enduring impact on the film industry.

Natalie Wood's Key Achievements:

• Acclaimed for roles in Miracle on 34th Street, Rebel Without a Cause, and West Side Story.

• Three-time Academy Award nominee, symbolizing her skill and versatility.

• A distinguished career that spanned from childhood stardom to mature roles.

• Regarded as one of Hollywood's most beloved and iconic actresses.

Natalie Wood's journey in Hollywood, from a child star to a celebrated actress, was marked by her exceptional talent and enduring charm. Her life, filled with both dazzling highs and personal challenges, left an indelible mark on the film industry. Her legacy as an actress continues to inspire and captivate audiences, cementing her status as a timeless icon in the world of cinema.

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-Matthew Larsen

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

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