Welcome to The San Francisco Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• New grant program to aid businesses affected by recent storms

• Upcoming Warriors home game

• A deep dive into the life of Irving Berlin

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

San Francisco 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!

Which famous prison is located on an island in San Francisco Bay?

A) Rikers Island

B) Alcatraz Island

C) Robben Island

D) Azkaban

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The official nickname for San Francisco is D) The City by the Bay.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

San Francisco launched a grant program to aid businesses affected by recent storms, covering a range of recovery-related expenses. (link)

MaryCarol Reeder of Scripps Health was awarded for her significant contributions to palliative care in San Diego. (link)

After comprehensive safety checks, Alaska Airlines resumed flights of its Boeing 737 MAX 9, starting with a flight from Seattle to San Diego. (link)

Sony Electronics announced a significant update to mocopi, enhancing its motion capture system to revolutionize personal computing with improved AI capabilities​​​​​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Aiming to transform utility cost management in the rental housing sector, Larry Bellack brought over 30 years of experience to his new role as Chief Revenue Officer. (link)

The biotech firm secured substantial funding to advance clinical trials for innovative disease therapies and cancer treatments. (link)

🏒 Sports

The San Francisco 49ers hosted the Detroit Lions at Levi's Stadium in a tightly contested NFC Championship game, with the 49ers securing a spot at Super Bowl LVIII. (link)

The Warriors faced off against the 76ers, continuing their season with a home game that drew fans from across the Bay Area. (link)

The Sharks represented the Bay Area on the ice, offering multiple home games at the SAP Center, known to fans as the Shark Tank. (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

🏀 Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns
Chase Center, San Francisco
Saturday, Feb. 10th, 2024 | (More Info)

🏀 USF Dons Women's Basketball vs. St. Mary's CA Gaels
War Memorial Gymnasium, San Francisco
Thursday, Feb 8, 2024 | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Stick Figure
The Warfield, San Francisco
Saturday, Feb 10, 2024 | (More Info)

🎧 Dr. Oliver Tree (DJ Set)
The Great Northern, San Francisco
Saturday, Feb 10, 2024 | (More Info)

🎤 Lil Kayla
The Regency Ballroom, San Francisco
Friday, Feb 9, 2024 | (More Info)

Family

🐰 Bugs Bunny at the Symphony: Film with Live Orchestra
Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco
Saturday, Feb 10, 2024 | (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 “San Francisco skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Francisco History

Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores) founded (1776)

In 1776, the same year that marked the establishment of the Presidio of San Francisco, another foundational event occurred with the founding of Mission San Francisco de Asís, also known as Mission Dolores. This mission was part of the expansive network of missions established by the Spanish throughout California, aimed at converting the indigenous populations to Christianity and extending Spanish influence in the region. Mission San Francisco de Asís was the sixth mission established and played a crucial role in the religious, cultural, and social landscape of the area.

Located close to the Presidio, Mission San Francisco de Asís was strategically positioned to benefit from the protection and support of the military outpost. The mission became a center for agricultural production, education, and religious instruction, significantly shaping the lives of the local Native American population. The structure of the mission, with its iconic church, living quarters, and farmlands, was emblematic of the Spanish mission system's architectural and societal organization.

The founding of Mission San Francisco de Asís in 1776 was a transformative event in the history of San Francisco, marking the beginning of structured European settlement and influence in the area. Over the years, the mission has withstood the test of time, enduring through the city's dynamic changes and evolving from its original religious purpose to become a symbol of historical and cultural significance. Today, Mission Dolores stands as one of the oldest intact buildings in San Francisco, offering a tangible link to the city's early beginnings and its complex colonial past.

Famous San Franciscans

Irving Berlin (1888–1989)

Early Life and Immigrant Roots (1888-1905)

Irving Berlin was born in 1888 in Tyumen, Russian Empire, and immigrated to the United States with his family in 1893, settling in New York City. His early life in the melting pot of the Lower East Side exposed him to a diverse array of musical influences, shaping his future as a composer and lyricist.

Entry into Music and Early Career (1906-1919)

Berlin's foray into music began in his teens when he started working as a street singer and eventually as a singing waiter in Chinatown. His first major composition, "Alexander's Ragtime Band" in 1911, catapulted him to fame, marking the start of a prolific career that would span decades.

Broadway Success and National Recognition (1920-1930)

In the 1920s, Berlin's career took off as he composed scores for numerous Broadway shows. His ability to blend different musical styles and craft memorable melodies made him a dominant figure in American music. Berlin's songs from this era, like "Blue Skies" and "Puttin' on the Ritz," became national hits.

Hollywood Ventures and Iconic Film Contributions (1931-1940)

Berlin transitioned to Hollywood in the 1930s, where he composed music for several successful films. His song "White Christmas," featured in the film "Holiday Inn" (1942), became one of the best-selling singles of all time, showcasing Berlin's versatility and mass appeal.

World War II and Patriotic Anthems (1941-1950)

During World War II, Berlin's music took on a patriotic tone. He composed several iconic songs, including "God Bless America," which served as an anthem of hope and unity for the nation. His contribution to boosting morale during the war was significant.

Post-War Career and Continued Success (1951-1960)

After the war, Berlin continued to write music for Broadway and films. Though musical trends were changing, he remained a respected figure in the industry, known for his timeless compositions and contributions to the Great American Songbook.

Later Years and Reflection on Legacy (1961-1980)

In his later years, Berlin took a step back from active composing but remained a revered figure in American music. He reflected on his extensive career, receiving numerous honors and awards that recognized his impact on music and American culture.

Centennial Celebrations and Final Years (1981-1989)

Berlin's 100th birthday in 1988 was celebrated nationwide, highlighting his status as a national treasure. In his final years, he lived a private life but continued to be celebrated for his remarkable contributions to American music.

Death and Enduring Legacy (1989)

Irving Berlin passed away in 1989 in New York City. His death marked the end of an era, but his vast catalog of songs continues to be celebrated and performed, reflecting the enduring appeal of his music.

Key Achievements:

• Composed over 1,500 songs, including iconic hits like "White Christmas" and "God Bless America."

• Shaped American music with his contributions to Broadway, Hollywood, and popular music.

• His songs played a significant role in defining American musical identity and cultural heritage.

• Received numerous awards and honors, recognizing his impact as one of the greatest songwriters in American history.

Irving Berlin's journey from a young immigrant in New York City to one of the most prolific and celebrated songwriters in American history is a testament to his genius, hard work, and adaptability. His ability to craft songs that resonate across generations has made him a cornerstone of American music and culture. Berlin's legacy continues to inspire and unite, cementing his place as an enduring symbol of the American dream and the universal language of music.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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