Welcome to The Boston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Boston is set to host NCAA Tournament games

• Upcoming Olivia Rodrigo performance

• A deep-dive into the life of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will."

– Suzy Kassem

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 Boston, which bridge is famous for its role in the American Revolution?

A) Longfellow Bridge

B) Zakim Bridge

C) Harvard Bridge

D) Old North Bridge

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is located in the B) Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood.

News

💼 Business

Acrisure announces the establishment of its New England Region as it approaches the completion of its North American rebranding strategy. (Link)

BioSpace reports on the 2024 layoffs in the biopharma industry, with companies such as Theratechnologies, GSK, and NextCure reducing staff. (Link)

The Boston Business Journal has been awarded 13 prizes by the New England Newspaper and Press Association for its 2023 reporting excellence. (Link)

Due to financial difficulties, a hospital in Massachusetts is scheduled to permanently cease operations next week. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Boston is set to host NCAA Tournament games, with the contenders aiming for victory celebrations at TD Garden. (Link)

The start of the Red Sox season brings unexpected potential despite a less optimistic outlook. (Link)

Evaluating whether the Timberwolves rank as the top team in the latest NBA Power Rankings. (Link)

The Celtics, on a significant winning streak, face off against the Hawks with favorable odds. (Link)

🏦 Finance

BXP has successfully sold a 45% stake in a Kendall Square life sciences property, with Norges Bank Investment Management finalizing a joint venture on 290 Binney Street. (Link)

A court has conditionally agreed to halt the collection of over $457 million in civil fraud penalties from Donald Trump, pending a $175 million guarantee. (Link)

Boston anticipates a nearly $18 million economic boost from hosting NCAA men's basketball East region Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight rounds, marking the first occasion since 2018. (Link)

Lambent, an occupancy analytics company, is organizing a virtual panel to discuss women's leadership in real estate space planning, featuring speakers from Boston Scientific and George Mason University. (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

🏀 Celtics vs. Thunder
TD Garden, Boston
April 3, 2024 | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Bruins vs. Panthers
TD Garden, Boston
April 6, 2024 | 3:30 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Celtics vs. Kings
TD Garden, Boston
April 5, 2024 | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Olivia Rodrigo
TD Garden, Boston
April 1-2, 2024 | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🎤 AJR
TD Garden, Boston
April 4, 2024 | Time TBA | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Gather for a night of laughs and charity with your favorite Boston comedians
306 Northern Ave, Boston, MA
Sunday, April 7th | 8:30 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 where every building is a work of abstract art” 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

Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787)

Shays' Rebellion, which took place from 1786 to 1787, was an armed uprising in Western Massachusetts that had a significant impact on the Constitutional Convention. The rebellion was a series of violent attacks on courthouses and other government properties, led by farmers who were aggrieved by excessive property taxes and repressive debt collection practices. The uprising was a response to a debt crisis among the citizenry and opposition to the state government's increased efforts to collect taxes on both individuals and their trades. The rebels, known as Shaysites, protested against economic and civil rights injustices by the Massachusetts Government, and the conflict escalated into a full-blown military confrontation in 1787.

Shays' Rebellion is often referred to as the "Last Battle of the American Revolution" and is considered a pivotal event that highlighted the weaknesses of the national government under the Articles of Confederation. The rebellion demonstrated the challenges of governing a young nation with a weak economy and lack of central authority. As a result, Shays' Rebellion played a crucial role in influencing the need for a new governing system, ultimately leading to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The rebellion's impact on the formation of the U.S. Constitution and the structure of the federal government cannot be overstated, making it a significant chapter in American history.

The leader of the rebellion, Daniel Shays, became the primary figurehead for the uprising, despite efforts by authorities to stop the protests. Shays' Rebellion ultimately led to a reevaluation of the governing system in the early United States and contributed to the development of the U.S. Constitution, shaping the future of the nation's political and legal framework.

Famous People From Boston

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was an American poet and educator, known for his influential literary works and his impact on the cultural landscape of the 19th century. Born on February 27, 1807, in Portland, Maine, Longfellow was the second son of Zilpah Wadsworth and Stephen Longfellow, both of whom were prominent figures in New England. His early life and education set the stage for his remarkable career as a poet and scholar.

Early Life and Education

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born into an established New England family in Portland, Maine, on February 27, 1807. His upbringing was marked by the expectation of following in his father's footsteps as a lawyer. He attended Portland Academy and later enrolled at Bowdoin College in Maine, where he graduated in 1825. Longfellow's education laid the foundation for his future literary pursuits and scholarly endeavors.

Literary Career and Contributions

Longfellow's literary career began to flourish with the publication of his early works, which showcased his poetic talent and deep appreciation for language and culture. His poems, including "Paul Revere's Ride," "The Song of Hiawatha," and "Evangeline," gained widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation as one of the most beloved American poets of the 19th century. Longfellow's ability to capture the essence of American history and folklore in his poetry resonated with readers and established him as a prominent figure in the literary world.

Connection to Boston

Longfellow's connection to Boston was significant, as he spent a considerable portion of his life in the city and became deeply involved in its cultural and intellectual circles. His interactions with influential figures, such as Boston industrialist Nathan Appleton and his family, enriched his experiences and influenced his literary pursuits. Boston served as a source of inspiration for Longfellow, shaping his creative vision and contributing to the depth of his literary works.

Legacy and Impact

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's legacy extends beyond his literary achievements, as he played a pivotal role in shaping American poetry and literature during the 19th century. His contributions to the literary landscape, coupled with his dedication to education and cultural enrichment, solidified his status as a revered poet and educator. Longfellow's impact on American literature continues to resonate, inspiring future generations of poets and scholars to embrace the power of language and storytelling.

Key Achievements of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:

• - Author of renowned poems such as "Paul Revere's Ride," "The Song of Hiawatha," and "Evangeline."

• - First American to completely translate Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy.

• - Influential figure in Boston's cultural and intellectual circles.

• - Revered poet and educator, known for his contributions to American literature.

• - Legacy as one of the most widely known and best-loved American poets of the 19th century.

In summary, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's life and career as a poet and educator were marked by his profound impact on American literature and his enduring legacy as a cultural icon. His literary works continue to inspire and captivate audiences, cementing his status as a beloved figure in the realm of poetry and education.

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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