Welcome to The St. Louis Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Cardinals games were dropped by Comcast after the Bally Sports deal fell through

• Upcoming St. Louis Cardinals match

• A deep-dive into the life of Ulysses S. Grant

• And more…

Quote of the Week

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

– Mahatma Gandhi

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!

Which museum in St. Louis is dedicated to the documentation and exhibition of modern art, including works from the turn of the century to the present?

A) Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

B) The Saint Louis Art Museum

C) Pulitzer Arts Foundation

D) Kemper Art Museum

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The St. Louis landmark that was the site of the 1904 Summer Olympics, is A) Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis.

News

💼 Business

New GM Wentzville leader: 'Full steam ahead' on gasoline-powered vehicles. (Link)

Missouri governor says Democrat senator blocked appointments after seeking one for himself. (Link)

Group turns in signatures to put minimum wage hike, paid sick leave on Missouri ballot. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Mizzou admin expects athletics department to operate close to black, require financial support. (Link)

Hochman: Pivotal May for Cardinals hitting coach Turner Ward, who must unlock offense. (Link)

Cardinals prospects Thomas Saggese, Victor Scott homer for Memphis: Minor League Report. (Link)

🏦 Finance

$15 minimum wage, paid sick leave campaign turns in signatures for Missouri ballot question. (Link)

Amtrak to resume St. Louis-Kansas City trains Thursday after 4 days of cancellations. (Link)

Cardinals games were dropped by Comcast after the Bally Sports deal fell through. (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

⚽ Chicago Fire FC at St. Louis CITY SC
CITYPARK, St. Louis
Saturday, May 11th | (More info)

⚾ New York Mets at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Monday, May 6th and Tuesday, May 7th | (More info)

⚽ Austin FC II at St. Louis CITY2
CITYPARK, St. Louis
Sunday, May 12th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Alvvays
The Pageant, St Louis
Tuesday, May 7th | (More info)

🎤 Patti LaBelle
The Factory, St Louis
Saturday, May 11th | (More info)

🎤 Panchiko
Delmar Hall, St Louis
Wednesday, May 8th | (More info)

Family

🔍 Free Family Saturdays at Craft Alliance
Craft Alliance, St. Louis
Saturday, May 11th | (More info)

📸 Snapshot Quest Photo Scavenger Hunt Game
City Center, 4001 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis
Thursday, May 2nd | (More info)

🍼 Water Safety Baby Brunch
9967 Manchester Road, St. Louis
Monday, May 13th | (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 “St. Louis 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.

St. Louis Historical Events

Formation of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (1880) - The second oldest symphony orchestra in the United States

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO), a beacon of artistic excellence, has its origins steeped in the rich cultural milieu of the late 19th century. Established in 1880, it holds the distinguished title of the second oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, a testament to St. Louis's vibrant cultural landscape and its longstanding commitment to the arts. The formation of the orchestra was spearheaded by local leader and philanthropist Joseph Pulitzer, who envisioned a grand symphonic body that would enrich the city's cultural life and elevate its national standing.

The inaugural concert of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra took place on November 6, 1880, under the baton of conductor Joseph Otten, a moment that marked the beginning of an enduring legacy. The early years were characterized by ambitious programming and an endeavor to showcase a wide range of works, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. Playing initially at the Mercantile Library Hall and later moving to the larger Odeon Concert Hall, the SLSO quickly became a central figure in St. Louis's cultural scene, drawing audiences from all walks of life and gaining acclaim for its artistic prowess.

Over the decades, the SLSO has not only survived but thrived, evolving into one of the nation's premier orchestras. It has played under the leadership of many renowned conductors and hosted a multitude of world-class soloists, contributing significantly to the dynamic and diverse nature of the American musical landscape. Today, housed in the acoustically superb Powell Hall, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra continues to dazzle audiences with its performances, serving as a cornerstone of St. Louis's cultural identity and a proud standard-bearer of its historical commitment to the arts.

Famous People From St. Louis

Vincent Price (1911–1993) - Actor known for his performances in horror films, born in St. Louis.

Early Life and Education in St. Louis (1911–1933)

Vincent Leonard Price Jr. was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Vincent Leonard Price Sr., president of the National Candy Company, and his wife, Marguerite Cobb Wilcox. Growing up in a well-to-do family afforded Price the opportunity to pursue his interests in the arts from a young age. He attended St. Louis Country Day School, where he first cultivated a love for acting. Price went on to study at Yale University, further honing his skills and passion for art and drama.

Rising Star in Theater and Film (1934–1940)

After studying in London and traveling across Europe, Price's acting career began in earnest in London’s Gate Theatre and soon transitioned to Broadway, where he made his mark in the 1930s. His compelling performances caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to his film debut in "Service de Luxe" (1938).

Master of Menace: Iconic Horror Roles (1941–1959)

The 1940s and '50s saw Price become a staple in horror cinema. His role in "House of Wax" (1953) cemented his status as a master of macabre, with his voice and stature lending itself perfectly to roles that were both elegant and eerie. Price's ability to straddle horror with a hint of humor became his trademark.

Collaborations with Roger Corman (1960–1970)

Arguably the most fruitful period of Price’s career was his series of films based on Edgar Allan Poe’s stories, directed by Roger Corman. Starting with "House of Usher" (1960), these gothic adaptations became classics of the genre, showcasing Price’s exceptional talent for capturing the tortured and the terrifying.

Television Appearances and Later Career (1971–1980)

Price's distinctive voice and persona made him a sought-after guest star on television throughout the 1970s. His appearances on popular shows such as "The Brady Bunch" and "Columbo" introduced him to a new generation of fans. Beyond acting, Price was a noted gourmet chef and art collector, passions he shared through cookbooks and his work on the visual arts council of UCLA.

Horror Icon and Inspirational Figure (1981–1993)

Even as he aged, Price continued to inspire and entertain, taking roles that paid homage to his legacy in horror. His voice work as the inventor in Tim Burton’s "Vincent" (1982) and the narrator of "Thriller" by Michael Jackson showcased his broad appeal and enduring charm.

Price's Connection to St. Louis (Throughout Life)

Despite a career that took him around the world, Price never forgot his St. Louis roots. He was a generous philanthropist, contributing to arts education programs in his hometown. The Vincent Price Art Museum in East Los Angeles College, supported by donations from Price and his wife, Mary Grant, is a testament to his lifelong passion for the arts.

Honors and Recognition (Throughout Career)

Price received numerous awards and honors recognizing his contributions to film and the arts. Though he never won an Academy Award, his legacy as a horror icon has been celebrated by horror enthusiasts and film critics alike.

Final Years and Legacy (1987–1993)

Price battled lung cancer in his final years, yet remained active in the arts community and dedicated to his fans until his death in 1993. His legacy endures through his extensive filmography, his impact on the horror genre, and his contributions to the arts.

Remembering Vincent Price (1993 and Beyond)

Vincent Price passed away on October 25, 1993, but his legend lives on. He is remembered not just for his roles in horror but as a Renaissance man with varied interests and talents, from gourmet cooking to art collecting.

Key Achievements of Vincent Price:

• Became a defining figure in horror cinema with roles in over 100 films.

• Notable collaborations with director Roger Corman on adaptations of Edgar Allan Poe’s works.

• Starred in the first 3-D film "House of Wax".

• Prolific career in television, lending his iconic voice to unforgettable characters.

• Significant contributions to the arts through philanthropy and advocacy.

Vincent Price's story is one of enduring appeal, from his early days in St. Louis to his reign as the undisputed king of horror. With a career that spanned the changing landscapes of Hollywood, Price managed to stay relevant and beloved by fans across multiple generations. His legacy as a master of the macabre and a patron of the arts continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring his place in the annals of American cinematic history.

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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