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

"You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have."

-Maya Angelou

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 Grauman's Chinese Theatre is famous for its celebrity handprints and footprints. Which of the following iconic elements is unique to this theater's architecture?

A) An art deco spire

B) A giant golden dragon on the roof

C) Pagoda-inspired entrance

D) Egyptian hieroglyphics along the walls

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

What groundbreaking infrastructure project was completed in Los Angeles in 1913, significantly impacting the city's water supply?

Answer: B) The creation of the Los Angeles Aqueduct

The Best Links of the Week

💼 Business

Los Angeles-based companies have seen significant growth recently. Stability Healthcare, a Pasadena-based healthcare staffing firm, leads with a 733% revenue increase. Other notable companies include HopSkipDrive, Coast Medical Service Inc., Culinary Services of America Inc., Sunbit, and Vobecky Enterprises Inc​​. (link)

The 148-day writers’ strike and 118-day actors’ strike significantly impacted Los Angeles' real estate, especially for sound stage owners like Hudson Pacific Properties, Kilroy Realty, and Hackman Capital Partners. Despite initial revenue dips, there's an increasing optimism and demand for new sound stages as the industry recovers​​. (link)

Banc of California has designated Los Angeles as its new headquarters and donated $1 million to expand financing options for small businesses. This move aligns with the bank's commitment to support local communities and the vibrant business ecosystem of Los Angeles​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

The relocation of Banc of California's headquarters to Los Angeles marks a significant change in the city's financial landscape. The bank's donation and commitment to small businesses reflect its dedication to driving economic growth and supporting local entrepreneurs in the city. (link)

Banc of California's investment in Los Angeles demonstrates a strong belief in the city's economic potential and the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. The bank's initiatives are expected to create more opportunities for local businesses, especially in securing government contracts. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Los Angeles Chargers faced a challenging game, putting more pressure on their coach Brandon Staley after a disappointing performance against the Raiders​​. (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

🏀 Cal St. Fullerton Titans Women's Basketball (December 21): Catch a game of the Cal St. Fullerton Titans Women's Basketball team at the Titan Gym as they take on the Santa Clara Broncos. (link)

🏀 Loyola Marymount Lions Basketball (December 18): Experience the excitement of college basketball with the Loyola Marymount Lions as they take on the Detroit Titans. (link)

🏒 Los Angeles Kings (December 20): Enjoy an NHL game featuring the Los Angeles Kings as they take on the Seattle Kraken at the Crypto.com Arena, perfect for hockey enthusiasts. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 KALAN.FRFR (December 23) Enjoy an exciting performance by KALAN.FRFR as he takes the stage at The Catwalk Club. (link)

🎵 Kitchen Sink Festival (December 19) This festival features Angel Olsen, Jim James, Rodrigo Amarante, Shannon Lay, OCS, whitmer thomas, Bethany Cosentino, and Kate Berlant. It will be held at the Lodge Room. (link)

Family

🎪 Santa’s Circus (December 24th): A unique holiday-themed theatrical experience with a blend of theater and cirque-style acrobatics at The Montalbán Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood, CA. (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 during a zombie apocalypse” 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

First Academy Awards (1929)

The first Academy Awards, held on May 16, 1929, marked the beginning of what would become Hollywood's most prestigious event. Hosted at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, the ceremony honored outstanding film achievements of 1927 and 1928. Unlike the extensive, glamorous events of later years, this initial ceremony was an intimate, private dinner for around 270 guests.

The event, organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, was conceptualized to celebrate and encourage excellence in the film industry. Awards were presented in 12 categories, with the winners having been announced three months prior to the ceremony. The entire event lasted only 15 minutes, a stark contrast to the elaborate ceremonies seen in later years.

The first Oscars set the tone for the American film industry, elevating it to global recognition. It cemented Los Angeles' status as the epicenter of cinema, fostering a tradition that would grow to become a significant cultural phenomenon worldwide. The Oscars continue to be a symbol of achievement in film, reflecting the evolving landscape of cinema and entertainment.

Famous People In LA History

Walt Disney: 1901-1966

Walt Disney was an American entrepreneur, animator, voice actor, and film producer. As a pioneer of the American animation industry, he introduced several developments in the production of cartoons and is a cultural icon known for his influence and contributions to entertainment during the 20th century.

Early Life and Beginnings in Animation (1901-1927) 

Born in Chicago, Walt Disney developed an interest in drawing and painting from a young age. He moved to Kansas City to pursue a career as a newspaper artist. There, he created his first animated shorts, laying the foundation for his future in animation.

Creation of Mickey Mouse and Breakthrough Success (1928-1937) 

Disney created Mickey Mouse in 1928, marking the beginning of his legendary career. Mickey quickly became an iconic character, leading to Disney's first major success, "Steamboat Willie," one of the first cartoons with synchronized sound.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937-1940) 

In 1937, Disney released "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," the first full-length animated feature film in English and in Technicolor. It was both a critical and commercial success, demonstrating the potential of animated feature films.

Expansion and Innovation (1941-1954) 

Throughout the 1940s and early 1950s, Disney continued to innovate. He produced several successful films, both animated and live-action, and began venturing into television in the 1950s, further expanding his entertainment empire.

Disneyland and Impact on Los Angeles (1955-1966) 

Disneyland, opened in 1955 in Anaheim near Los Angeles, was Disney’s most ambitious project. It became a cultural phenomenon and significantly impacted Los Angeles' economy and tourism industry. Disneyland set new standards for theme parks and family entertainment.

Later Career and Expansion (1956-1965) 

In his later years, Disney continued to expand his business, creating new theme parks and entertainment experiences. His vision and creativity seemed boundless, as he continued to push the boundaries of entertainment and storytelling.

Legacy and Disney Studios (Post-1966) 

Disney's legacy extended beyond his death in 1966. The Walt Disney Company grew into one of the world's leading entertainment companies. Disney Studios in Los Angeles became a symbol of Hollywood and the entertainment industry.

Philanthropy and Community Impact 

Disney was also known for his philanthropy and impact on the Los Angeles community. His contributions to various causes and the local economy have left a lasting imprint on the city.

Enduring Influence on Entertainment and Culture 

Disney's influence on entertainment and culture is immeasurable. His work revolutionized animation, film, theme parks, and more, leaving a legacy that continues to entertain and inspire.

Key Achievements of Walt Disney:

• Co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, a leading entertainment enterprise.

• Creator of Mickey Mouse and pioneer of American animation.

• Producer of the first full-length animated feature film, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."

• Innovator in theme park design with the creation of Disneyland.

• Winner of 22 Academy Awards, holding the record for the most Oscars won by an individual.

Walt Disney's story is one of imagination, innovation, and enduring impact. His contributions to animation, film, and theme parks have made a lasting mark on Los Angeles and the world, making him a true icon in entertainment history.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen