Boston Newsletter (March 18th)

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

Welcome to The Boston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • 100th anniversary of the Boston Bruins

  • Upcoming Boston Instrumental Festival

  • A deep-dive into the life of Louisa May Alcott

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“Courage is never to let your actions be influenced by your fears.”

— Arthur Koestler

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 iconic Boston market known for its food vendors and eateries?

A) Boston Public Market

B) Faneuil Hall Marketplace

C) Quincy Market

D) Copley Square Market

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The famous Boston landmark known as 'The Cradle of Liberty' is C) Faneuil Hall.

News

💼 Business

At February's end, SAM's shares fell sharply due to its underwhelming quarterly performance and bleak outlook. (link)

Christopher Silvia expands his culinary venture with the opening of a second cafe in Fall River. (link)

A new regulation on classifying independent contractors is set to significantly affect business operations. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Celtics secured a 121-99 victory against Portland with Brown and Tatum scoring 27 and 26 points, respectively. (link)

Despite efforts, Linus Ullmark remained with the Boston Bruins after vetoing a trade proposal at last week's deadline. (link)

Contrary to the season's usual downturns, the Boston Bruins experienced an atypical 5-1 defeat to the St. Louis Blues on Monday. (link)

🏦 Finance

TD Bank commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Boston Bruins by releasing special centennial pins. (link)

Dine Out Boston, featuring over 150 participating venues, offers a glimpse into the city's restaurant week(s) running until March 23. (link)

Five women entrepreneurs highlight their preferred women-owned shops and organizations in the area. (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

🏒 Bruins vs. Senators 
TD Garden, Boston
Tuesday, Mar. 19th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Bruins vs. Rangers
TD Garden, Boston
Thursday, Mar. 21st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Hockey East Semifinals & Championship
TD Garden, Boston
Friday, Mar. 22nd - Saturday, Mar. 23rd | 4:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎷 Casual Friday: Celebrating the Symphonic Legacy of Wayne Shorter
Symphony Hall, Boston, MA
Thursday, Mar. 21st | 8:30 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎪 2024 Boston Instrumental Festival
Symphony Hall, Boston, MA
Sunday, Mar. 24th | 2:00 PM | (More Info)

🎷 Community Chamber Concert–Fenway Center, Boston, March 22, 2024
Fenway Center, Boston, MA
Friday, Mar. 22nd | 1:30 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 “High-tech urban farm towers and green rooftops in 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

Battle of Bunker Hill (1775)

The Battle of Bunker Hill, fought on June 17, 1775, was a pivotal event in the early stages of the American Revolution. Located near Boston, Massachusetts, the battle was a significant clash between the American colonists and the British forces. Despite its name, the majority of the fighting actually took place on nearby Breed's Hill. The battle marked a turning point in the conflict, as it demonstrated the colonists' ability to stand up to the powerful British army and boosted their confidence in their fight for independence.

The battle began when the British forces, under the command of General William Howe, launched a frontal assault on the American position. The colonists, led by Colonel William Prescott, fiercely defended their position, inflicting heavy casualties on the British troops. Although the Americans ultimately had to retreat due to a shortage of ammunition, the battle showcased their determination and resilience. The Battle of Bunker Hill served as a rallying cry for the American cause, inspiring greater support for the revolution and strengthening the resolve of the colonial forces.

The Battle of Bunker Hill had a profound impact on the course of the American Revolution. It demonstrated that the colonists were willing to fight for their independence and that they could hold their own against the British army. The battle also led to a greater sense of unity among the American colonies, as it highlighted the common goal of achieving freedom from British rule. Ultimately, the Battle of Bunker Hill set the stage for the long and arduous struggle for independence that would culminate in the birth of the United States of America.

Famous People From Boston

Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888)

Louisa May Alcott, born on November 29, 1832, in Germantown, Pennsylvania, was an American novelist and short story writer. She is best known for her novel "Little Women" (1868-69), which has become a classic in American literature. Louisa spent most of her life in Boston and Concord, Massachusetts, where she continued to publish works and engage with the literary and reformist circles of the time. She passed away on March 6, 1888, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Early Life and Literary Beginnings (1832-1850)

Louisa May Alcott was born to transcendentalist and educator Amos Bronson Alcott and social worker Abigail "Abby" May on November 29, 1832, in Germantown, Pennsylvania. Her family later moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where she was exposed to the intellectual and literary environment of the city. Louisa's passion for writing emerged during her early years, and she began experimenting with form and genre, laying the foundation for her future literary career.

Literary Success and "Little Women" (1851-1868)

Louisa May Alcott's literary career gained momentum with the publication of "Little Women" in 1868. The novel, based on her own family life, became an instant success and established her as a prominent author. "Little Women" captured the essence of sisterhood, love, and coming-of-age, resonating with readers across generations and solidifying Alcott's place in literary history.

Connection to Boston and Literary Circles (1869-1888)

Louisa May Alcott's connection to Boston remained strong throughout her life. She continued to publish works that followed the characters from "Little Women" and engaged with the literary and reformist circles of the city. Her experiences in Boston influenced her writing and provided her with the inspiration for her characters and stories.

Health Struggles and Legacy (1888)

Louisa May Alcott attributed her poor health to mercury poisoning, which she believed she contracted while working as a nurse during the Civil War. She passed away at the age of 56 on March 6, 1888, in Boston, Massachusetts, leaving behind a legacy of literary excellence and a timeless contribution to American literature.

Key Achievements

  • Author of the classic novel "Little Women" (1868-69), which continues to inspire readers worldwide.

  • Engaged with the literary and reformist circles of Boston, influencing her writing and social perspectives.

  • Contributed to the portrayal of sisterhood, love, and coming-of-age in American literature, leaving a lasting impact on literary culture.

Louisa May Alcott's life and works continue to inspire and resonate with readers, cementing her place as a beloved author and a significant figure in American literary history.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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