Welcome to The Los Angeles Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• New haven for dogs in Hollywood

• UCLA football updates

• Guns N’ Roses performing this week

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”

-Chinese Proverb

What I Am Working On This Week

I plan to do five “tasks” per day that are consequential in terms of improving my life, business, etc. This seems like a sustainable pace that will lead to a nice balance of meaningful results, but not be too overwhelming to the point where I procrastinate.

One Idea For a Better Week

Use some form of “screen control” on your phone, iPad, computer, etc., and block out all negative news. I did this a year ago and it has been beautiful. No politics. No divisive social issues. No crime. Nothing.

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 was the original name of Los Angeles when it was founded in 1781?

A. Pueblo de la Reyna de los Angeles

B. Los Angeles de California

C. Ciudad de los Angeles

D. El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

Which community in Los Angeles holds the distinction of being the city's oldest neighborhood?

Answer: El Sereno

The Best Links of the Week

💼 Business

A noteworthy business event in Los Angeles during the week of October 23 to 29, 2023, was the movement in the Fintech sector, where startups took notable steps to assist individuals without bank accounts. This wave of financial inclusion through technology showcases how Los Angeles continues to be a hub for innovative solutions addressing real-world problems.

In Hollywood, a new haven for dogs emerged, reflecting the city’s diverse business environment catering to both human and pet needs. This new establishment provides a place for the beloved pets of Hollywood's busy individuals, embodying the city's entrepreneurial spirit and love for animals.

A significant transaction occurred for EVPassport, underlining the city’s position in the electric vehicle infrastructure domain, and indicating a growing interest in sustainable transportation solutions.

🏦 Finance

The finance realm in Los Angeles saw investors taking a keen interest in Neo-Bank firms, marking a trend towards modernized banking systems and reflecting the city's appetite for financial innovation.

Port of Los Angeles reported an upward trend in cargo despite a muted peak holiday shipping season. This resilience in the face of consumer caution showcases the robustness of the city’s trade and commerce activities.

🏒 Sports

UCLA announced that the football team would wear throwback jerseys for a particular homecoming game, adding a touch of nostalgia to the sporting event.

📰 News

A unique approach to assisting individuals freshly released from county detention was initiated in Los Angeles, where ex-inmates were engaged to help these individuals reintegrate into society. This initiative reflects a progressive step towards community reintegration and reducing recidivism.

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 

🏀Los Angeles Lakers vs. Orlando Magic (October 30) Feel the excitement of an NBA showdown at the Crypto.com Arena as the Los Angeles Lakers compete against the Orlando Magic, in a battle of skill and strategy on the court.

🏀Los Angeles Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers (November 1) Witness a local rivalry at its best at the Crypto.com Arena, as the Los Angeles Clippers go head-to-head with the Los Angeles Lakers, promising a high-energy clash on the basketball court.

Music & Concerts

🎵 Guns N' Roses Concert (November 2) Rock the night away with the legendary Guns N' Roses as they ignite the stage at the Hollywood Bowl with their iconic tunes, delivering a night filled with electrifying music and rock n' roll spirit.

🎉Doja Cat Concert (November 2) Groove to the catchy tunes of Doja Cat at the Crypto.com Arena, as the chart-topping artist delivers a night filled with music and dancing, showcasing her captivating performances.

Hobbies 

🎨 Official Drink It Up by KISS Pre Party (November 3) Gear up for the KISS concert with the official pre-party at Hard Rock Cafe, offering a blend of music, drinks, and fan camaraderie, setting the right mood for the upcoming gig.

🍹Breakfast with The Beatles: With Chris Carter (November 5) Start your Sunday on a musical note with Breakfast with The Beatles at Hard Rock Cafe, a delightful morning filled with classic Beatles tunes hosted by Chris Carter.

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 as an underwater city” 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

Here are some of the most significant things to happen in Los Angeles history.

The Los Angeles Aqueduct [1913]

The completion of the Los Angeles Aqueduct in 1913 stands as one of the most significant engineering feats in the city's history, ensuring a steady and reliable water supply vital for its survival and growth.

Prior to the aqueduct’s construction, Los Angeles was reliant on local water sources, which were insufficient to meet the needs of its rapidly growing population and expanding industry. Recognizing the urgent need for a more sustainable water solution, city officials embarked on an ambitious project to transport water from the Owens Valley, over 200 miles away, to Los Angeles. Spearheaded by William Mulholland, the project required innovative engineering solutions, overcoming challenging terrain and logistical hurdles.

The successful completion of the aqueduct not only secured Los Angeles' water supply but also played a crucial role in enabling the city’s continued growth and prosperity. It facilitated the development of new neighborhoods, industries, and agricultural ventures, contributing to Los Angeles' transformation into a major urban center. The Los Angeles Aqueduct is a testament to the city’s vision and determination, marking a defining chapter in its history and underpinning its future success.

Famous Angelenos In History

Ray Bradbury (1920-2012): A Literary Maestro of Science Fiction and Fantasy

Roots in the City of Angels (1920-1934) 

Ray Bradbury, born on August 22, 1920, in Waukegan, Illinois, moved to Los Angeles with his family at the age of 14. His family’s relocation to the heart of the entertainment industry would profoundly shape his future endeavors and aspirations. From a young age, Bradbury developed a voracious appetite for reading and storytelling, frequenting local libraries and immersing himself in the world of books.

The Formative Years (1934-1940) 

The bustling and vibrant atmosphere of Los Angeles in the 1930s provided a fertile ground for Bradbury’s burgeoning imagination. He began writing his own stories, inspired by the works of authors such as Edgar Allan Poe and Jules Verne. Although he did not have access to formal education in writing, Bradbury was determined to learn the craft through voracious reading and relentless practice.

Embarking on a Writing Career (1940-1949) 

The 1940s marked the beginning of Bradbury’s professional journey as a writer. He started by publishing stories in various pulp magazines, honing his skills and developing his unique voice. His dedication and love for writing were evident in his relentless work ethic, often producing numerous short stories in a single week.

The Golden Age of Science Fiction (1950-1959) 

The publication of "The Martian Chronicles" in 1950 catapulted Bradbury into literary stardom, establishing him as a formidable force in the realm of science fiction and fantasy. His ability to weave complex narratives infused with philosophical questions about humanity and society resonated with readers across the world. During this decade, Bradbury continued to produce influential works, including "Fahrenheit 451," a novel that critiqued censorship and the stifling effects of conformity.

Hollywood and the Silver Screen (1960-1969) 

Bradbury’s success in literature seamlessly translated into a prolific career in screenwriting. He contributed to numerous television shows and films, further establishing his presence in the entertainment industry. His foray into Hollywood allowed him to explore new storytelling mediums and reach a broader audience.

Literary Achievements and Recognitions (1970-1989) 

Over the next two decades, Bradbury solidified his legacy as a literary giant. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and the arts. His works continued to inspire generations of readers and writers, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller.

Embracing New Technologies (1990-1999) 

In the 1990s, as the world entered the digital age, Bradbury embraced new technologies, seeing them as tools to spread his stories and ideas. He continued to write and speak passionately about the power of literature and the imagination, encouraging young writers to pursue their dreams.

The Final Chapter (2000-2012) 

In the final years of his life, Bradbury continued to write and share his wisdom on storytelling and creativity. He remained a prominent figure in the literary world, using his voice to advocate for the importance of literature in society. On June 5, 2012, Ray Bradbury passed away in Los Angeles, leaving behind a rich legacy of work and an indelible impact on the world of literature.

Legacy and Impact 

Ray Bradbury’s journey from a young aspiring writer in Los Angeles to one of the most revered authors in the world is a testament to his talent, determination, and belief in the power of imagination. His works continue to captivate readers, sparking curiosity and encouraging critical thinking.

Major Achievements

• Pioneered the popularization of science fiction as a respected literary genre.

• Authored "Fahrenheit 451," a novel that continues to be a pivotal work in discussions about censorship and society.

• Received the National Medal of Arts in 2004, recognizing his contributions to American culture.

• Created a vast body of work that includes hundreds of short stories, numerous novels, plays, and screenplays.

• Inspired countless writers, filmmakers, and artists to pursue their creative endeavors.

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