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Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Los Angeles country club revenue surged during the pandemic. These clubs set the pace.

• Upcoming Ken Carson concert

• A deep dive into the life of Lou Costello

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”

– Og Mandino

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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!

What is the name of the historic Los Angeles neighborhood known for its Mediterranean-style homes and ties to the film industry's early days?

A) Silver Lake

B) Los Feliz

C) Hollywood Hills

D) Hancock Park

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The iconic Los Angeles music venue, The Troubadour, was established in B) 1962.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Lovett Industrial moving forward with plans to build industrial facility on former Putnam Ranch in Chino. (Link)

Hotels face uncertain future as loan delinquency, distress rise. (Link)

🏒Sports

Angels select Tennessee second baseman Christian Moore in first round. (Link)

Riviera Country Club to host Olympic golf in 2028. (Link)

🏦Finance

Los Angeles country club revenue surged during the pandemic. These clubs set the pace. (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

⚾ Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
Friday, Jul. 19th to Saturday, Jul. 20th | (More info)

🚗Monster Jam
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Sunday, Jul. 21st | (More info)

Music & Performances

🎵ATEEZ
BMO Stadium, Los Angeles
Saturday, Jul. 20th | (More info)

🎵Ken Carson
Shrine Expo Hall, Los Angeles
Sunday, Jul. 21st | (More info)

Family Friendly events

🎨July Family Fun Friday (ages 5-8)
399 N Garey Ave, Pomona, CA
Friday, Jul. 19th | (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 “High-tech entertainment district in Los Angeles with virtual reality arcades.” 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

1931: Construction of the Griffith Observatory.

In 1931, construction began on the iconic Griffith Observatory, a landmark that has become an integral part of Los Angeles' cultural and scientific heritage. The project was initiated by Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, who generously donated 3,015 acres of land for the construction of the observatory. The design for the observatory was developed by architects John C. Austin and Frederic Morse Ashley, based on preliminary sketches by Russell W. Porter. The construction was part of a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, reflecting the collaborative efforts of architects, astronomers, and public leaders to bring Griffith's visionary plan to reality.

The Griffith Observatory officially opened its doors to the public on May 14, 1935, marking the culmination of years of planning and construction. The observatory quickly became a hub for educational and inspirational resources, pioneering programs on space travel and innovations in special effects. After nearly 67 years of heavy public use, the observatory underwent a comprehensive renovation and expansion in 2002, representing the first major capital improvement to the building since its opening. The renovation project, which cost $93 million, offered the opportunity to rethink the building's entire exhibit and ensure its continued relevance for future generations.

Today, the Griffith Observatory stands as one of Los Angeles' greatest cultural attractions, offering spectacular views from the Pacific Ocean to Downtown L.A. from its perch on Mt. Hollywood in Griffith Park. It continues to inspire and educate visitors, carrying forward the legacy of its visionary founder and the dedicated individuals who brought his dream to fruition.

Famous People From Los Angeles

Ritchie Valens (1941–1959): Singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

Early Life and Musical Passion (1941-1957)

Richard Steven Valenzuela, known as Ritchie Valens, was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles. From a young age, he expressed a deep passion for music and began playing the guitar and singing. His early musical influences and experiences in Los Angeles shaped his unique style and sound.

Rising Star in the Music Industry (1957-1958)

Valens' musical career took off when he signed with Del-Fi Records and released his hit singles "Donna" and "La Bamba." His rise to stardom was swift, and his talent as a singer and guitarist captured the hearts of audiences across the country. Valens' impact on the music industry was significant, especially as one of the first Latino rock stars in the United States.

Legacy of Ritchie Valens (1958-1959)

In a tragically short lifetime, Ritchie Valens became a trailblazer in the music industry, breaking barriers as the first Latino rock star in the U.S. and a forefather of the Chicano rock movement. His contributions to music and his influence on future generations of musicians solidified his place in music history.

Ritchie Valens Day in Los Angeles

On May 13, 2016, the 75th anniversary of Valens' birthday, the Los Angeles City Council declared May 13 "Ritchie Valens Day." This recognition honored the legacy of the influential singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Valens was born as Richard Steven Valenzuela on May 13, 1941, in Pacoima, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles.

Honoring Ritchie Valens in Los Angeles (2016 and Beyond)

Ritchie Valens' impact on the music industry and his connection to Los Angeles continue to be celebrated. The dedication of a post office in the Pacoima section of Los Angeles to the late rock 'n' roll legend and the declaration of Ritchie Valens Day by the Los Angeles City Council are testaments to his enduring legacy.

Key Achievements of Ritchie Valens:

• Pioneer as the first Latino rock star in the U.S.

• Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.

• Honored with a post office named after him in Los Angeles.

• Recognized as a forefather of the Chicano rock movement.

• Remembered for his timeless hits "Donna" and "La Bamba."

Ritchie Valens' story is one of musical innovation, cultural impact, and a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence the music industry. His connection to Los Angeles and his pioneering role in rock and roll history make him an iconic figure in American music.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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