Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Small business optimism rises in 2024 with increased sales

• Arizona State Sun Devils Men's basketball & baseball games

• A deep-dive into the life of Carl Hayden

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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 famous architect designed the Taliesin West in Phoenix?

A) I.M. Pei

B) Frank Gehry

C) Frank Lloyd Wright

D) Le Corbusier

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The largest municipal park in Phoenix is B) South Mountain Park.

News

💼 Business

Small business optimism rises in 2024 with increased sales and a positive future outlook, yet many seek grants for growth. (Link)

Boss Impact Fund offers $10K grants and mentorship for Black women entrepreneurs. (Link)

Papaya Reusables introduces a $10K grant for women-owned businesses in support of Women's History Month. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Danny Stone was appointed as the head coach of Phoenix Rising, stepping up from his role as an assistant coach in 2021. (Link)

Arizona Wildcats football team retains key players Fifita, T-Mac, and Manu, aiming for a strong season ahead. (Link)

Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen expresses his love for Arizona and openness to an extension with the team. (Link)

🏦 Finance

EmpowHER: A fitness and financial event aimed at empowering women was scheduled in Scottsdale. (Link)

The Power Of Alignment: A free webinar on mastering life and finances was offered in Phoenix and surrounding areas. (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

⚾ Kansas State Wildcats at Arizona State Sun Devils Baseball
Phoenix Municipal Stadium, Phoenix
Tuesday, Feb. 20th | (More Info)

🥎 UTEP Miners at Arizona State Sun Devils Softball (DH)
Farrington Softball Stadium
Wednesday, Feb. 21st | (More Info)

🏀 Washington Huskies at Arizona State Sun Devils Men's Basketball
Desert Financial Arena
Thursday, Feb. 22nd | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Ali Gatie
The Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ
Monday, Feb 19th | (More Info)

🎸 Beartooth with The Plot in You
The Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ
Tuesday, Feb 20th | (More Info)

🎵 Petey
The Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix, AZ
Wednesday, Feb 21st | (More Info)

🎷 Styx
Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix, AZ
Thursday, Feb 22nd | (More Info)

Family

🎠 Arizona Renaissance Festival
Gold Canyon, AZ
Monday, Feb 19th | (More Info)

🍴 Devour Culinary Classic
Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, AZ
Feb 24-25th | (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 “Phoenix skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” and this is what I got.

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

Phoenix Historical Events

Spanish Exploration (16th Century)

In the 16th century, the Phoenix area witnessed the arrival of Spanish explorers, marking a significant turn in its history. These explorations were part of Spain's broader efforts to explore and claim vast territories in the New World. As the Spaniards traversed the region, they encountered various Native American tribes, initiating the first recorded interactions between European explorers and the indigenous populations of the area.

Unfortunately, these encounters had dire consequences for the local tribes, primarily due to the introduction of European diseases. Native American communities, having no immunity to these foreign illnesses, suffered devastating outbreaks. Diseases such as smallpox, measles, and influenza spread rapidly, leading to significant loss of life and societal disruption. This tragic impact profoundly altered the demographic and cultural landscape of the region, leaving an indelible mark on its history.

The Spanish exploration of the Phoenix area laid the groundwork for further European influence and eventual colonization. The Spaniards' quest for new territories and riches drove them deeper into the American Southwest, but their legacy is marred by the adverse effects their arrival had on the indigenous people. This period stands as a critical chapter in the history of Phoenix, highlighting the complex and often tragic nature of cultural encounters during the age of exploration.

Famous People From Phoenix

Carl Hayden (1877-1972)

Early Life and Education (1877-1900)

Carl Hayden, born in 1877 in Hayden's Ferry, Arizona Territory, witnessed the transformation of the region into the modern state of Arizona. He was deeply influenced by the challenges and opportunities of the developing West.

Political Ascent and Local Impact (1901-1911)

Hayden began his political career in local positions, including serving as the sheriff and tax collector of Maricopa County. His early involvement in Arizona politics laid the foundation for his future role in national politics.

U.S. House of Representatives (1912-1926)

Hayden served in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he focused on issues vital to Arizona's development, such as water rights and land management.

U.S. Senate Tenure and Arizona Advocacy (1927-1969)

Hayden's election to the U.S. Senate marked the beginning of a long and influential career. He became known for his commitment to Arizona's growth, particularly in securing water rights, which was crucial for the state's development.

Major Legislative Achievements (Throughout Career)

Hayden was instrumental in key legislation, including the Hayden-Cartwright Act and the authorization of the Central Arizona Project, vital for Arizona's water resources.

Seniority and Influence in the Senate (1950s-1960s)

As one of the longest-serving members in the history of the U.S. Senate, Hayden wielded considerable influence, using his position to benefit Arizona and shape national policy.

Later Years and Legacy (Post-1969)

After his retirement, Hayden's legacy as a dedicated public servant continued to be felt. His contributions to Arizona's infrastructure, particularly in water resource management, have had a lasting impact.

Carl Hayden’s Key Achievements:

• Long-serving U.S. Senator from Arizona, known for his commitment to the state's development.

• Instrumental in securing water rights for Arizona, crucial for its growth.

• Played a key role in significant legislation impacting both Arizona and the nation.

Carl Hayden's career in public service was marked by a steadfast commitment to the growth and development of Arizona. His work in securing water rights and advocating for the state's needs at the national level left a profound and lasting impact, securing his place as a pivotal figure in Arizona's 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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