Welcome to The San Francisco Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square

• Upcoming Warriors home games

• A deep dive into the life of Carol Channing

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

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!

The Summer of Love in 1967 is a famed event in San Francisco's history. Which San Francisco neighborhood was the epicenter of this cultural phenomenon?

A) The Mission District

B) Haight-Ashbury

C) North Beach

D) SoMa (South of Market)

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

RayzeBio was acquired by pharmaceutical giant Bristol-Myers Squibb in a $4.1 billion deal. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for RayzeBio, a company specializing in targeted radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Wildfire Systems Inc., a financial technology platform, announced that its white label loyalty programs led to nearly $600 million in e-commerce sales in 2023. The company exceeded its growth projections and established new partnerships with financial service providers​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The San Francisco 49ers secured a significant victory over the Arizona Cardinals with a score of 45-29. The win was led by a stellar performance from Christian McCaffrey, who amassed 187 all-purpose yards and scored 3 touchdowns​​. (link)

The 49ers emerged victorious against the Seattle Seahawks, winning 28-16. Deebo Samuel had an impressive game, catching 7 passes for 149 yards and scoring 2 touchdowns, contributing significantly to the 49ers' win​​. (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. Boston Celtics (December 19): The Golden State Warriors will face the Boston Celtics at Chase Center. This game is expected to be a high-energy encounter between two of the NBA's top teams, offering fans a thrilling basketball experience. (link)

🏀 Golden State Warriors vs. Washington Wizards (December 22): Another exciting game at the Chase Center, the Golden State Warriors will face the Washington Wizards. It's a great opportunity to see some of the best players in the league go head-to-head. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎵 A Brass and Organ Christmas Concert (December 18): Enjoy a festive evening at Grace Cathedral with the "A Brass and Organ Christmas Concert". This event combines the majestic sounds of brass and organ music, creating a serene and celebratory Christmas atmosphere. (link)

🎶 Sing it Yourself Messiah! - San Francisco & Benicia (December 18): This unique event at Herbst Theatre invites attendees to join in singing Handel's Messiah. It's a participatory experience combining choral singing with the spirit of the holiday season. (link)

Family

⛸️ Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square (December 18): This is a perfect family-friendly event where you can enjoy ice skating in the heart of San Francisco at Union Square. The rink is open from 10 am to 11 pm, providing a festive and fun outdoor activity for all ages. (link)

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 inside a video game” 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

The Opening of Golden Gate Park (1870s)

The development and subsequent opening of Golden Gate Park in the 1870s marked a significant milestone in San Francisco's urban development. Envisioned as a green haven within the bustling city, the park was inspired by the likes of New York's Central Park. Its creation brought a much-needed recreational and natural space to the rapidly growing urban landscape of San Francisco.

Spanning over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park was designed to offer an array of natural and cultural attractions. It featured lush landscapes, scenic beauty, and various amenities, including botanical gardens, museums, and sports facilities. The park quickly became a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful escape from city life.

Over the years, Golden Gate Park has evolved and expanded, adapting to the changing needs of the community while maintaining its original charm and purpose. It has played a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in San Francisco, serving as a central hub for outdoor activities, cultural events, and environmental education. The park remains a beloved and iconic part of San Francisco’s identity.

Famous San Franciscans

Carol Channing: 1921-2019

Carol Channing, an American actress, singer, dancer, and comedian, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born in Seattle but raised in San Francisco, Channing's larger-than-life personality and distinctive voice made her a Broadway icon.

Early Life and San Francisco Beginnings (1921-1940) 

Born on January 31, 1921, in Seattle, Washington, Carol Channing moved to San Francisco as a child. Her upbringing in the city's diverse cultural scene played a crucial role in nurturing her early interest in the arts and setting the stage for her future success.

Broadway Debut and Rise to Stardom (1941-1948) 

Channing's Broadway debut came in 1941 with "No for an Answer." Her early career on stage laid the foundation for her ascent in the world of theater, showcasing her unique talent and charismatic presence.

Breakthrough with "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1949-1959) 

Channing achieved stardom with her portrayal of Lorelei Lee in the 1949 Broadway production of "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." Her performance, especially the number "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," became a defining moment in her career.

Iconic Role in "Hello, Dolly!" (1964) 

Channing's portrayal of Dolly Gallagher Levi in "Hello, Dolly!" in 1964 was a career-defining achievement. Her award-winning performance in this role cemented her status as a Broadway legend and became an enduring highlight of her career.

Expanding into Film and Television (1960-1976) 

Channing expanded her artistic reach into film and television during this period. Her role in "Thoroughly Modern Millie" (1967) garnered critical acclaim, earning her an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe Award.

One-Woman Shows and Enduring Stage Presence (1977-1989) 

In the late 1970s and 1980s, Channing continued to captivate audiences with her one-woman shows and cabaret performances, demonstrating her enduring appeal and versatility as a performer.

Autobiography and Reflections (1990-2001) 

Channing's autobiography, "Just Lucky I Guess," published in 2002, offered intimate insights into her life and career, reflecting on her journey in the entertainment industry.

Later Years and Continued Impact (2002-2019) 

Even in her later years, Channing remained active in the arts. She continued to perform, make public appearances, and contribute to philanthropic causes, showcasing her enduring passion for the performing arts.

Legacy and Farewell (2019) 

Carol Channing passed away on January 15, 2019, leaving behind a rich legacy as a beloved Broadway star, film actress, and comedienne. Her contributions to American theater and her infectious spirit have left a lasting impression.

Key Achievements of Carol Channing:

• Broadway star renowned for "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "Hello, Dolly!"

• Academy Award nominee for "Thoroughly Modern Millie."

• Author of the autobiography "Just Lucky I Guess."

• A lifelong advocate for arts education and philanthropy.

• Left a lasting legacy in American theater and entertainment.

Carol Channing's journey from her early days in San Francisco to her status as a Broadway legend showcases her extraordinary talent and determination. Her vibrant career and contributions to the arts continue to inspire and entertain.

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

-Matthew Larsen