Welcome to The Boston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• The 128th Boston Marathon

• Upcoming NBA Eastern Conference First Round: Boston Celtics vs. TBD - Home Game 1

• A deep-dive into the life of Nathaniel Hawthorne

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The joy in life is to be used for a purpose. I want to be all used up when I die."

- George Bernard Shaw

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!

In which Boston park is the 'Make Way for Ducklings' statue located?

A) Boston Common

B) Public Garden

C) Franklin Park

D) Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The iconic Boston lighthouse, the oldest in America, is B) Boston Light.

News

💼 Business

Eclipse excitement boosts business in Northern New England, drawing crowds to places like the Vermont Country Store. (Link)

Pulte Homes is set to expand in the Boston area with a new luxury home community at Norton's Wheelock Farm, offering 44 residences. (Link)

Amid controversy over sponsorship branding, companies are ramping up their marketing efforts for the Boston Marathon, where finishers will be awarded medals featuring the lead sponsor's name. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Neemias Queta has officially joined the Boston Celtics on a standard contract, upgrading from his former two-way deal. (Link)

Kristaps Porzingis is the most recent Boston Celtics player to be named Eastern Conference Player of the Week. (Link)

The Boston Celtics have established a new NBA record with Kristaps Porzingis being the fourth player this season to receive the Eastern Conference Player of the Week award. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Adicet Bio, a biotech firm focusing on cell therapies, announced its participation in the Canaccord Genuity Horizons in Oncology Virtual Conference set for 2024. (Link)

Business confidence in Massachusetts dropped slightly in March, with the Associated Industries of Massachusetts Business Confidence Index indicating a decrease to 52.2. (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

🏃 128th Boston Marathon
Boston, MA
Monday, April 15, 2024 | 9:00 AM | (More Info)

🏀 NBA Eastern Conference First Round: Boston Celtics vs. TBD - Home Game 1
TD Garden, Boston, MA
Saturday, April 20, 2024 | 3:30 AM | (More Info)

🚗 Monster Jam
Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Saturday, April 20, 2024 | 5:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Chris Tomlin
Agganis Arena, Boston
Saturday, Apr. 20th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 The Veronicas
Royale Boston, Boston
Sunday, Apr. 21st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Girl In Red with Momma
MGM Music Hall at Fenway, Boston
Tuesday, Apr. 16th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎷 The Hot Sardines
Berklee Performance Center, Boston
Saturday, Apr. 20th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Laurie Berkner
Cabot Theatre, Boston
Sunday, Apr. 21st | 3:00 PM | (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 “Boston with wildlife corridors and roaming animals.” and this is what I got.

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

Boston Historical Events

The Launch of the USS Constitution (1797) - The famous warship was built and launched in Boston.

The launch of the USS Constitution in 1797 marked a historic moment in Boston's maritime history. This famous warship, also known as "Old Ironsides," was built and launched in Boston, solidifying the city's reputation as a hub for shipbuilding and naval prowess. The construction of the USS Constitution was a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Boston's shipbuilders, and its launch was a source of great pride for the city and its residents. As the ship set sail for the first time, it symbolized the strength and resilience of the young United States and became an enduring symbol of American naval heritage.

The launch of the USS Constitution was a momentous occasion that captured the imagination of Bostonians and garnered attention across the nation. The ship's impressive size and formidable design made it a formidable addition to the United States Navy, and its launch was celebrated as a significant milestone in the country's naval expansion. The USS Constitution's launch also served as a symbol of national unity and strength, as it represented the young nation's commitment to defending its interests and asserting its presence on the world stage.

Today, the USS Constitution stands as a living monument to Boston's maritime legacy and the enduring spirit of American naval tradition. Its launch in 1797 remains a pivotal event in the city's history, and the ship continues to inspire pride and admiration as it serves as a museum and a reminder of Boston's rich maritime heritage. The launch of the USS Constitution stands as a testament to Boston's role in shaping the nation's naval history and remains an integral part of the city's identity.

Famous People From Boston

Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864) was an American novelist and short story writer known for his works that often focused on history, morality, and religion. He was born in Salem, Massachusetts, to a family long associated with the town. Here is a comprehensive biography of Nathaniel Hawthorne, highlighting key aspects of his life and career.

Nathaniel Hawthorne's Family Legacy

Nathaniel Hawthorne was born Nathaniel Hathorne on July 4, 1804, in Salem, Massachusetts. He was the descendant of one of the first families to settle in Salem, the Hathornes. However, by the time of his birth, the family name had fallen from its place of distinction due to the actions of his great-great-grandfather, William Hathorne, and his great-grandfather, Colonel John Hathorne.

Early Life and Education

Hawthorne entered Bowdoin College in Maine in 1821 and began writing short stories and a novel. After college, he returned to Salem, Massachusetts, and completed a novel he had started in college, titled "Fanshawe."

Literary Career and Notable Works

Hawthorne's literary career took off with the publication of his novel "The Scarlet Letter" in 1850, followed by a succession of other novels. His works, including "The House of the Seven Gables," often delved into dark themes and are widely read in schools. During the 1852 election, Hawthorne wrote a campaign biography for his college friend, Franklin Pierce, who was later elected as the 14th President of the United States.

European Sojourn and Inspiration

Hawthorne spent time in England from 1853 to 1857, which served as inspiration for his novel "Our Old Home." During Pierce's presidency, Hawthorne secured a posting in Europe, working for the State Department.

Legacy and Recognition

Hawthorne's contributions to American literature earned him recognition, including induction into the Hall of Fame in 1900. His short stories and novels, such as "My Kinsman, Major Molineux," "Roger Malvin's Burial," and "Rappaccini's Daughter," continue to be celebrated for their enduring impact.

Connection to Boston

Nathaniel Hawthorne's connection to Boston is evident through his birth in Salem, Massachusetts, and his literary pursuits that were influenced by the New England region.

Key Achievements of Nathaniel Hawthorne:

• - Author of "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables," widely acclaimed novels.

• - Notable contributions to American literature, focusing on dark themes and moral dilemmas.

• - Inducted into the Hall of Fame in recognition of his literary legacy.

• - Served as a campaign biographer for Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States.

• - Inspired by his family's legacy in Salem, Massachusetts, and his experiences in Europe.

Nathaniel Hawthorne's life and literary works continue to inspire readers and scholars, cementing his place as a prominent figure in American literature.

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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