Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• How a former USC kicker is inspiring youth in Puerto Morelos, Mexico.

• Upcoming ROME STREETZ concert

• A deep dive into the life of Sammy Davis Jr.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up.” 

—Isabelle Lafleche

Sponsored

Billionaires wanted it, but 65,928 everyday investors got it first

When incredibly valuable assets come up for sale, it's typically the wealthiest people that end up taking home an amazing investment. But not always…

One platform is taking on the billionaires at their own game, buying up and securitizing some of the most prized blue-chip artworks for its investors. 

It's called Masterworks. Their nearly $1 billion collection includes works by greats like Banksy, Picasso, and Basquiat. When Masterworks sells a painting – like the 23 it's already sold – investors reap their portion of the net proceeds.

In just the last few years, Masterworks investors have realized net annualized returns like +17.6%, +17.8%, and +21.5% (from 3 illustrative sales held longer than one year).

See important Reg A disclosures at masterworks.com/cd.

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!

In what year did the iconic Los Angeles landmark, the Hollywood Sign, originally erected as "Hollywoodland," debut?

A) 1923

B) 1932

C) 1945

D) 1950

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Los Angeles street famous for its nightlife and historic music venues is A) Sunset Strip.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

SoCalGas to move out of namesake tower for new downtown Los Angeles headquarters. (Link)

UCLA buys 62-unit West Los Angeles apartment complex. (Link)

🏒Sports

How a former USC kicker is inspiring youth in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. (Link)

Rams RT Rob Havenstein expected to play vs. Cardinals. (Link)

🏦Finance

Kevin Hart's vegan burger chain Hart House shuts down all locations. (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

🏐 Loyola Marymount Lions at USC Trojans Womens Volleyball
Galen Center, Los Angeles
Thursday, Sep 19 | (More info)

⚾ Colorado Rockies at Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
Friday, Sep 20-22 | (More info)

Music & Performances

🎶 Bleachers
Greek Theatre, Los Angeles
Sunday, Sep 22 | (More info)

🎤 ROME STREETZ
The Moroccan Lounge, Los Angeles
Monday, Sep 23 | (More info)

Family Friendly events

🎨 Spinning Fun For Kids - Art Class by Classpop!™
801 Mateo St, Los Angeles
Friday, Sep 20 | (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 “A smart Los Angeles where technology seamlessly integrates into every aspect of life” 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

1998: The Los Angeles Lakers sign Shaquille O'Neal, beginning a new era for the basketball team.

In 1998, the Los Angeles Lakers made a historic move by signing Shaquille O'Neal, marking the beginning of a new era for the basketball team. O'Neal, known as ""Shaq,"" was already a dominant force in the NBA, having been drafted by the Orlando Magic with the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft. His arrival in Los Angeles brought a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for Lakers fans. O'Neal's impact on the team was immediate, and he quickly became one of the best centers in the league, showcasing his exceptional skills on the court.

During his time with the Lakers from 1996 to 2004, Shaquille O'Neal played a pivotal role in leading the team to three consecutive NBA titles from 2000 to 2002. His partnership with Kobe Bryant formed a formidable duo that propelled the Lakers to championship success. O'Neal's dominance was evident in his performances, including a memorable game in 1998 when he scored an impressive 50 points against the New Jersey Nets. His contributions to the team solidified his legacy as one of the most influential players in Lakers history, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.

Shaquille O'Neal's tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers not only elevated the team's status in the NBA but also captivated fans with his larger-than-life presence both on and off the court. His impact extended beyond basketball, making him a beloved figure in the city of Los Angeles and a key figure in the Lakers' storied history.

Famous People From Los Angeles

Sammy Davis Jr. (1925–1990): Singer, dancer, actor, and member of the Rat Pack.

Sammy Davis Jr. was born on December 8, 1925, in Harlem, New York, to Sammy Davis, Sr., an African American, and Elvera Sanchez, a Cuban American, both of whom were vaudeville dancers. His parents separated when he was three years old, and his father took him on tour with a dance troupe led by Will Mastin.

Singer, Dancer, Actor, and Member of the Rat Pack

Davis Jr.'s career began at a young age when he joined the Will Mastin Trio, a vaudeville act that toured nationally. His film career started in 1933, marking the beginning of his journey as a multi-talented entertainer.

Remarkable success

Throughout his life, Sammy Davis Jr. achieved remarkable success in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting legacy as a singer, dancer, actor, and member of the Rat Pack. His impact extended beyond the stage and screen, making him an influential figure in the civil rights movement and a symbol of perseverance and excellence.

Sammy Davis Jr.'s connection to Los Angeles was significant, as it became his home and the place where he made numerous contributions to the entertainment industry and civil rights activism.

Key Achievements of Sammy Davis Jr.

• Renowned singer, actor, and dancer with a successful career spanning over six decades.

• Member of the Rat Pack, alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and appeared in films such as Ocean's 11 and Sergeants 3.

• Received awards for his civil rights work, including recognition from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

• Left a lasting legacy as an influential figure in the civil rights movement and a symbol of perseverance and excellence.

Sammy Davis Jr.'s life and career were marked by his extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication to making a positive impact on society. His contributions to the entertainment industry and civil rights activism continue to inspire future generations.

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

Poll