Boston Newsletter (July 11th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Boston.

Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Boston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • John Hancock seeks longevity innovation.

  • Sharks draft Macklin Celebrini first.

  • A deep-dive into the life of Arthur Fiedler.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."

-Mahatma Gandhi

Sponsored

Yes, this platform’s 77% return is an outlier – but the rest may surprise you

The news is true: Masterworks’ 15th sale just weeks ago returned an impressive 77% to investors. While such a high return is an outlier for the blue-chip art investing platform, you might be wondering what their prior sales delivered. Glad you asked… 

Every one of their sales has returned a profit to investors, with 12 of them delivering double-digit returns, and 1 delivering triple-digit annualized returns. 

In full, Masterworks has over 300 paintings and their 16 exits have delivered: 32%, 39.3%, 36.2%, 27.3%, 9.2%, 33.1%, 21.5%, 17.8%, 13.9%, 35%, 10.4%, 325.5%, 4.1%, 17.6%, 77.3%, and 13.4% net annualized returns. 

Every sale but one outperformed the stock market in the period from when it was offered to when it was sold. 

With performance like that, offerings on the platform can sell out in minutes. However, Local News Newsletter readers can skip the waitlist to join with this exclusive link.

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 known for its role in connecting the city to Cambridge?

A) Longfellow Bridge

B) Zakim Bridge

C) Harvard Bridge

D) Charles River Bridge

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The famous Boston event in early American history that took place on March 5, 1770, is B) The Boston Massacre.

News

💼 Business

John Hancock seeks 'longevity innovation' startups for new challenge. (link)

Boston medtech opens Back Bay HQ as it ramps up commercial efforts. (link)

🏒 Sports

NHL Draft 2024 picks, results: Sharks select Boston University star Macklin Celebrini with No. 1 overall pick. (link)

Meet the two Massachusetts gymnasts looking to make history at the Paris Olympics. (link)

🏦 Finance

Uber, Lyft undecided whether to fight unionization ballot question. (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

Boston Red Sox vs. Kansas City Royals
Fenway Park, Boston, MA
Friday, Jul 12th | 7:10 PM | (More info)

 New England Revolution vs. Orlando City SC
Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Saturday, Jul 13th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 The Aquabats
Big Night Live, Boston, MA
Thursday, Jul 11th | 6:00 PM | (More info)

🎷 Mates of State
The Sinclair Music Hall, Cambridge, MA
Thursday, Jul 11th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🤣 Kids & Company's Family Fun Day Luau!
460 Washington St, Braintree, MA
Saturday, Jul 13th | 10:00 AM | (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 “A city in the clouds, with buildings suspended in the air over Boston” 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

Boston's Busing Crisis (1974) - A major event in the city’s racial history.

The Boston Busing Crisis of 1974 was a pivotal event in the city's racial history, marked by intense controversy and civil unrest. The crisis was sparked by a court-ordered busing plan aimed at desegregating Boston's public schools, which had been plagued by decades of educational discrimination. The plan involved the forced transfer of nearly 17,000 students by bus to increase racial integration, leading to widespread protests and violent demonstrations throughout the city. On September 9, 1974, over 4,000 white demonstrators rallied at Boston Common to protest the start of court-ordered school desegregation, making national headlines and drawing attention to the deep-seated racial tensions in the city.

The implementation of the busing plan in 1974 led to a period of intense social upheaval and unrest in Boston. Violent protests erupted in various neighborhoods, making national news for several years and highlighting the deep-seated racial divisions within the city. The crisis became synonymous with the term "busing," and the events of 1974 left a lasting legacy on Boston's educational system and social fabric. The busing crisis has been described as a liberal intervention gone wrong, and it continues to be a significant chapter in Boston's history, shaping the city's approach to racial integration and educational equity.

The Boston Busing Crisis of 1974 remains a defining moment in the city's history, with its impact still felt nearly 50 years later. The court-ordered busing plan aimed to address educational inequity and racial segregation in Boston's public schools, but it sparked widespread controversy and resistance. The events of 1974 and the subsequent years of busing left a lasting legacy, shaping the city's educational policies and social dynamics. The crisis serves as a reminder of the complex and deeply rooted racial tensions that have shaped Boston's history and continue to influence the city's approach to issues of race, education, and social justice.

Famous People From Boston

Arthur Fiedler – Long-time conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra

Arthur Fiedler: 1894-1979

Arthur Fiedler, the iconic conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra, was renowned for his innovative approach to music and his instrumental role in shaping the orchestra's legacy. His influence extended beyond the realm of classical music, making him a beloved figure in Boston and a household name across the United States.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1894-1918)

Arthur Fiedler was born on December 17, 1894, in Boston, Massachusetts. His early exposure to music, particularly through his father, a member of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, sparked his passion for conducting and performance. Fiedler's musical journey began with the violin, and he later honed his skills in conducting, piano, and organ.

Association with the Boston Symphony (1918-1930)

Fiedler's musical prowess led to his association with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, where he served as a violinist. During this period, he also demonstrated his proficiency on the celesta, piano, and organ, showcasing his versatility and dedication to mastering various musical instruments.

Conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra (1930-1979)

In 1930, Fiedler's career took a momentous turn when he was appointed as the conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra. This marked the beginning of a remarkable 50-year tenure that would solidify his status as a musical maestro. Fiedler's innovative programming and showmanship transformed the Boston Pops into a world-famous institution, captivating audiences with a repertoire that combined light classics and popular music.

Innovations and Showmanship (1930s-1970s)

Fiedler's impact on the Boston Pops was characterized by his inventive approach to music and performance. He introduced the concept of free outdoor concerts, bringing music to the masses and fostering a sense of community through the universal language of music. His flair for showmanship added an element of fun to the orchestra's performances, featuring twirling double basses and even inflatable sharks on the concert stage.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Arthur Fiedler's legacy as the conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra is marked by his unparalleled contributions to the world of classical and popular music. His recordings with the Pops sold over 50,000,000 discs, making him the best-selling classical conductor of all time. Fiedler's impact extended beyond the realm of music, as he became a symbol of cultural enrichment and artistic innovation.

Key Achievements of Arthur Fiedler:

  • Transformed the Boston Pops Orchestra into a world-famous institution through innovative programming and showmanship.

  • Pioneered the concept of free outdoor concerts, bringing music to a wider audience and fostering community engagement.

  • Best-selling classical conductor of all time, with over 50,000,000 discs sold through recordings with the Boston Pops.

  • Instrumental in shaping the cultural landscape of Boston and leaving an enduring legacy in the world of classical and popular music.

Arthur Fiedler's story is one of musical innovation, community enrichment, and artistic excellence. His influence as "Mr. Boston" and his instrumental role in shaping the Boston Pops Orchestra's legacy continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his legacy lives on for generations to come.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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