Welcome to The San Francisco Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• As Melinda French Gates leaves the Gates Foundation, many hope she’ll double down on gender equity.

• Upcoming San Francisco Giants match

• A deep dive into the life of Bruce Lee

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“True abundance isn’t based on our net worth, it’s based on our self-worth.”

— Gabrielle Bernstein

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!

What is the name of the large island in San Francisco Bay that was once a military installation and is now a public park?

A) Alcatraz Island

B) Treasure Island

C) Angel Island

D) Governors Island

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The San Francisco event held in September, one of the largest and oldest air shows in the United States, is B) Fleet Week.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

As Melinda French Gates leaves the Gates Foundation, many hope she’ll double down on gender equity. (Link)

Whistleblower questions delays and mistakes in way EPA used sensor plane after fiery Ohio derailment. (Link)

New Builders initiative looks to fight polarization by encouraging collaboration and alliances. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Nevada Supreme Court rejects 2024 ballot measure on A's Las Vegas stadium funding. (Link)

After SF crash, GM's Cruise resumes robotaxi testing in Arizona with human safety drivers on board. (Link)

Beyond Buffett: Marc Benioff lunch auction raises $1.5M for S.F. Glide Foundation. (Link)

🏒 Sports

‘I’m terrified’: Olympic leaders see Pac-12 demise as threat to Team USA’s future. (Link)

49ers will open season vs. Jets and the QB they’ve tormented, Aaron Rodgers. (Link)

'Warriors’ Celebrini tries to contain joy until Sharks draft son Macklin No. 1. (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

⚾ Philadelphia Phillies at San Francisco Giants
Oracle Park, San Francisco
From May 27th to May 29th | (More info)

⚾ Houston Astros at San Francisco Giants
Oracle Park, San Francisco, CA
Monday, June 10th (More info)

⚾ San Francisco Giants vs. New York Yankees
Oracle Park, San Francisco
From May 31st to June 2nd | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Passion Pit
August Hall, San Francisco
Tuesday, May 21st | (More info)

🎤 Wisp
The Independent, San Francisco
Wednesday, May 22nd | (More info)

🎵 Lewis OfMan
The Independent, San Francisco
Thursday, May 23rd | (More info)

Family

🎉 Friday Family Fun Night: Celebration of the Caregivers
5016 Mission Street, San Francisco
Friday, May 24th | (More info)

🤝 Volunteer with Us: Friday Family Fun Night
5016 Mission Street, San Francisco
Friday, May 24th | (More info)

🍣 In-person class: The Art of Sushi Making (SF)
739 Bryant Street, San Francisco
Saturday, May 25th | (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 with a blend of ancient and futuristic architecture” 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

1933: Construction of the Golden Gate Bridge begins.

In 1933, the construction of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge began, marking the start of a monumental engineering feat that would forever change the landscape of San Francisco. The groundbreaking work commenced on January 5th, as workers began excavating 3.25 million cubic feet of dirt for the structure's massive anchorages. The bridge, spanning 1.7 miles and linking San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait, was a visionary project that captured the imagination of the nation.

Led by chief engineer Joseph Strauss, the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge was a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Despite initial concerns about the bridge's design, the suspension span concept eventually won out, paving the way for the construction to proceed. Over the course of four years, the project continued without a single fatality, a remarkable achievement given the scale and complexity of the endeavor.

On May 27, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was officially opened to the public, becoming the longest bridge span in the world at the time. This engineering marvel stands as a symbol of innovation and connection, serving as an enduring icon of San Francisco and a testament to the vision and dedication of those who brought it to life.

Famous San Franciscans

Bruce Lee - (1940-1973):

Martial artist, actor, director, martial arts instructor, and philosopher:

Bruce Lee, born Lee Jun Fan on November 27, 1940, in San Francisco, California, was a martial artist, actor, director, martial arts instructor, and philosopher. His life story began in the vibrant city of San Francisco, where he was introduced to the world. From his early years to his lasting legacy, Bruce Lee's journey is one of passion, dedication, and groundbreaking achievements.

Early Life and Introduction to Martial Arts (1940s-1950s):

Bruce Lee's birth in San Francisco marked the beginning of a remarkable life. Raised in British Hong Kong, he was introduced to the Hong Kong film industry as a child actor by his father, Lee Hoi-Chuen. It was during this time that he developed a deep interest in martial arts, leading him to study wing chun gung fu under renowned wing chun master, Yip Man, at the age of 13.

Rise to Prominence in Martial Arts (1950s-1960s):

Bruce Lee's dedication to martial arts led him to open his first martial arts school, the Lee Jun Fan Gung Fu Institute, in Seattle. His innovative approach to martial arts and philosophy attracted a diverse group of students, and he soon gained recognition as a skilled instructor and practitioner. It was during this time that he was challenged by some gung fu men from San Francisco who objected to his teaching of non-Chinese students, reflecting the racial tensions of the era.

Transition to Acting and Film Career (1960s-1970s):

Bruce Lee's transition to acting and film marked a new chapter in his life. He appeared in more than 20 films as a child actor and later returned to the U.S. to pursue a career in Hollywood. His groundbreaking role in The Green Hornet and his iconic performance in Enter the Dragon solidified his status as a martial arts legend and a trailblazer in the film industry.

Philosophy, Legacy, and Impact (1970s):

Bruce Lee's philosophy and teachings transcended martial arts and resonated with people around the world. His emphasis on self-expression, adaptability, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit continues to inspire individuals in various fields. His sudden and tragic death in 1973 left a void in the world of martial arts and film, but his legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance, innovation, and cultural influence.

Key Achievements of Bruce Lee:

• Pioneered a new approach to martial arts philosophy and practice, emphasizing adaptability and self-expression.

• Broke racial barriers in the martial arts community, challenging traditional norms and promoting inclusivity.

• Achieved international recognition as a martial artist and actor, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry.

• Established a martial arts legacy that continues to inspire practitioners and enthusiasts worldwide.

• Advocated for cultural diversity and representation in Hollywood, paving the way for future generations of actors and filmmakers.

Bruce Lee's story is one of passion, innovation, and cultural impact. His connection to San Francisco and his groundbreaking achievements in martial arts and film have left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and embrace their unique talents.

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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