Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Jack Kochanowicz pitches 6 scoreless innings as Angels snap skid.

• Upcoming young friend concert

• A deep dive into the life of Humphrey Bogart

• And more…

Quote of the Week

 “Mastery of life is not a question of control, but of finding a balance between human and being.” 

–Eckhart Tolle

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 which Los Angeles museum can you find the Space Shuttle Endeavour on display?

A) The Getty Center

B) The California Science Center

C) The Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History

D) The Broad

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The district famous for its film studios like Warner Bros. and Universal Studios is B) Burbank.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Boichik Bagels to open 2 Los Angeles outposts in first foray outside Bay Area. (Link)

Ednovate leases vacant Echo Park office building for new charter school. (Link)

🏒Sports

Jack Kochanowicz pitches 6 scoreless innings as Angels snap skid. (Link)

Lakers’ 2024-25 schedule features fewer back-to-backs, Michael Cooper’s jersey retirement. (Link)

🏦Finance

Final 4 People Mover train cars arrive at LAX, moving project into new stage. (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

⚽ Seattle Reign FC at Angel City FC
BMO Stadium, Los Angeles
Friday, Sep 6th | (More info)

⚾ Cleveland Guardians at Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
Fri, Sep 6th - Sun, Sep 8th | (More info)

Music & Performances

🎵 young friend
Genghis Cohen, Los Angeles
Monday, Sep 2nd | (More info)

🎵 Black Uhuru
The Venice West, Los Angeles
Wednesday, Sep 4th | (More info)

Family Friendly events

🍳 Family Cooking Workshop
7555 Van Nuys Boulevard, Los Angeles
Wednesday, Sep 4th | (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 with an elaborate network of rooftop gardens and patios” 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

1924: The first Olympic Games held in Los Angeles.

In 1924, the city of Los Angeles made history by hosting the first Olympic Games on the West Coast of the United States. The 1924 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the VIII Olympiad, were an international multi-sport event held in Paris, France. The opening ceremony took place on July 5, with some competitions starting as early as May 4. This marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the Olympic Games were held in Los Angeles, setting the stage for the city's future as a prominent host for international sporting events.

The 1924 Olympics saw athletes from around the world competing in various sports, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship on a global stage. The Games of the VIII Olympiad were a testament to the spirit of unity and athleticism, bringing together nations and cultures in the pursuit of excellence. The event laid the foundation for future Olympic Games, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of sports and international cooperation.

The historic significance of the 1924 Olympic Games in Los Angeles cannot be overstated, as it marked the beginning of a tradition that would see the city become a celebrated host for the Olympics once again in 1932 and 1984. The legacy of the 1924 Olympics continues to inspire athletes and sports enthusiasts, serving as a reminder of the power of sports to unite people from diverse backgrounds and create lasting memories.

Famous People From Los Angeles

Humphrey Bogart (1899–1957): Film and stage actor.

Humphrey DeForest Bogart was born on December 25, 1899, in New York City, to Belmont DeForest Bogart and Maud Humphrey. His father was a wealthy cardiac surgeon who had a substantial income, while his mother was a commercial illustrator who gained a reputation as a feminist and suffragist. Bogart spent much of his childhood in a relatively affluent environment, attending prestigious schools and being exposed to the arts from a young age. However, despite the outward appearance of privilege, Bogart's family life was complicated, marked by a lack of emotional warmth and distant relationships with his parents.

Education and Early Struggles (1918–1921)

After a somewhat tumultuous and rebellious childhood, Bogart was expelled from the prestigious Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, just before he could graduate. This setback led him to join the United States Navy during World War I, where he served with distinction. After the war, Bogart returned to New York with no clear direction for his future. He drifted into the world of stage acting, following a path of least resistance rather than a clear passion for the craft.

Stage Career Beginnings (1921–1930)

Bogart's acting career began with stage performances in the early 1920s. He struggled for years in minor roles, finding it difficult to break through the competitive theater scene. His performances received mixed reviews, and he was often typecast in roles that did not allow him to showcase his range or talent. Despite these early challenges, Bogart persisted in the theater, gradually building his skills and reputation among New York theater circles.

Hollywood Transition and Early Film Roles (1930–1935)

In 1930, Bogart moved to Hollywood to try his luck in the burgeoning film industry. His early roles were largely uninspiring, with parts in B-movies that did not make significant waves at the box office or with critics. He often played two-dimensional figures that mirrored the tough-guy roles he had been relegated to on stage. This period was marked by professional frustration and slow progress, but it laid the groundwork for his later success.

Breakthrough and Rise to Stardom (1936–1941)

Bogart's career took a significant turn with his breakthrough role in "The Petrified Forest" (1936). His portrayal of Duke Mantee, a desperate and disillusioned outlaw, caught the attention of both the public and critics, leading to more substantial roles. Over the next few years, he starred in a series of hits that established him as a leading man in Hollywood. His unique on-screen persona, which combined toughness with vulnerability, resonated with audiences.

Iconic Roles and Oscar Recognition (1941–1951)

The 1940s marked the peak of Bogart's career, with iconic roles in Casablanca (1942), The Maltese Falcon (1941), and The Big Sleep (1946). These films showcased his ability to convey complex emotions and moral ambiguity, making him one of Hollywood's most respected actors. In 1951, Bogart won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The African Queen, affirming his status as one of the greats in the industry.

Personal Life and Marriages (1926–1957)

Throughout his life, Bogart was known for his tumultuous personal life. He was married four times, most famously to actress Lauren Bacall, with whom he shared a legendary romance both on and off the screen. Their marriage was one of Hollywood's most celebrated, and together they had two children. Bacall and Bogart's partnership was not only romantic but also professional, as they starred in several films together.

Activism and Political Involvement (1940–1957)

Beyond the screen, Bogart was known for his political activism. During the McCarthy era, he was a vocal opponent of the House Un-American Activities Committee, fighting against the blacklisting of Hollywood figures accused of communist sympathies. His stand cost him professionally and personally but spoke to his deep convictions about freedom of expression and justice.

Late Career and Legacy (1952–1957)

In his later years, Bogart continued to work, although his health was declining. He starred in The Caine Mutiny (1954), which earned him another Oscar nomination, and Sabrina (1954). His final film, The Harder They Fall (1956), was a fitting end to his illustrious career, showcasing his enduring talent despite his illness.

Connection to Los Angeles (Throughout Career)

Bogart's connection to Los Angeles was integral to his life and career. As the epicenter of the American film industry, L.A. shaped his professional journey. He lived and worked in the city for most of his adult life, becoming a central figure in its cultural landscape. His home in Hollywood became a gathering place for actors, writers, and directors, and his influence on the city's film community was profound.

Key Achievements

• Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for The African Queen (1951).

• Received three additional Oscar nominations throughout his career.

• Became a cultural icon with roles in films like Casablanca and The Maltese Falcon.

• Known for his significant contributions to film noir and classic Hollywood cinema.

• Remembered for his activism against the Hollywood blacklist during the McCarthy era.

Humphrey Bogart remains one of the most iconic figures in film history, known for his compelling screen presence and deep, gravelly voice that made characters like Rick Blaine and Sam Spade timeless. His career spanned over three decades during which he transformed from a struggling stage actor into a Hollywood legend. Bogart's legacy is not just in the roles he portrayed but also in the indelible mark he left on the film industry and American culture.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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