Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Phoenix median home values forecasted to increase

• Upcoming Phoenix Suns home game

• A deep-dive into the life of Frank Luke Jr.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

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 river runs through Phoenix?

A) Gila River

B) Colorado River

C) Salt River

D) Verde River

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The famous architect who designed the Taliesin West in Phoenix is C) Frank Lloyd Wright.

News

💼 Business

Addressing the credit squeeze impacting small business growth, exploring financial strategies for 2024. (Link)

A new 6th to 12th-grade academy focused on innovative education launched by a world champion boxer and entrepreneur. (Link)

Scooter’s Coffee opened its fourth location in Phoenix, known for quick service and specialty coffee. (Link)

🏒 Sports

The Nets are reportedly focusing on building around a former Suns’ forward following a coaching change. (Link)

The Suns' playoff prospects were analyzed, with predictions for their performance in the remaining season. (Link)

Devin Booker and Kevin Durant shared their views on changes to the All-Star Game format. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Phoenix's median home values are forecasted to increase by 5.8% from May 2023 to May 2024​​. (Link)

Real estate sales in the Phoenix MSA rose by +6.8% month-over-month, with a slight year-over-year decrease of -3.3%​​. (Link)

Phoenix voters approved a $500 million bond for infrastructure improvements in the 2023-24 budget​​. (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

🏀 Phoenix Suns vs. Houston Rockets
Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
Thursday, Feb. 29th | (More info)

🏀 Itty Bitty Sports - Ages: 3 - 5
Desert West Community Center, Phoenix, AZ
Thursday, Feb 29, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 The Paper Kites
Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix, AZ
Friday, Mar. 1st | (More info)

🎵 Kruder & Dorfmeister
Walter Where?House, Phoenix, AZ
Friday, Mar. 1st | (More info)

🎵 Disturbed
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, Phoenix, AZ
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | (More info)

Family

🎨 Fabulous Art & Crafts Festival on Ahwatukee Plaza
East Elliot Road, Phoenix, AZ 85044
Saturday, Mar. 2nd to Mar. 3rd | (More info)

🛍️ Melrose on 7th Avenue Street Fair
7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | (More info)

🛒 PHOENIX FLEA
North 6th Street, Phoenix
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | (More info)

🎉 First Friday Fiesta
E Monroe St, Phoenix, AZ
Friday, Mar. 1st | (More info)

👶 Baby Sleep 101 at Camelback Pediatrics
East Camelback Road, Phoenix
Wednesday, Feb. 28th | (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 “Retro-futuristic 1950s style Phoenix with modern technology” 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

Mexican-American War End (1848)

In 1848, the Mexican-American War came to an end, resulting in the Phoenix area becoming part of the United States under the New Mexico Territory. The conflict, which lasted from 1846 to 1848, concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848. This treaty marked the official end of the war and defined the Mexican Cession, which included the transfer of Mexican territory to the United States. As a result, the Phoenix area, along with other regions, became part of the U.S. under the New Mexico Territory, shaping the historical and territorial landscape of the region.

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it not only marked the end of the Mexican-American War but also led to significant territorial changes. The Mexican government surrendered, and peace negotiations began, ultimately resulting in the transfer of vast territories to the United States. This included the incorporation of the Phoenix area into the New Mexico Territory, laying the foundation for the region's future development and integration into the United States.

The Mexican Cession of 1848, following the end of the Mexican-American War, had a lasting impact on the Phoenix area and the broader southwestern region. It marked the beginning of a new era as the territory became part of the United States, shaping its cultural, political, and economic landscape. The incorporation of the Phoenix area into the New Mexico Territory was a significant historical milestone that continues to influence the region's identity and heritage to this day.

Famous People From Phoenix

Frank Luke Jr. (1897-1918)

Frank Luke Jr., also known as the Arizona Balloon Buster, was an American fighter ace in World War I, credited with 18 aerial victories. His short but remarkable life was marked by extraordinary bravery and exceptional skill in aerial combat.

Early Life and Family Heritage

Frank Luke Jr. was born on May 19, 1897, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Frank Luke Sr., who had emigrated from Germany to the United States in 1874. His upbringing in the sun-scorched desert of the Arizona Territory instilled in him a spirit of adventure and resilience.

Passion for Aviation and Military Service

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, Frank Luke Jr. saw an opportunity to serve and quickly joined the Army's Aviation Section. His flight training in Texas and California revealed his superior piloting skills, setting the stage for his remarkable military career.

Aerial Combat and Victories

Frank Luke Jr.'s exceptional bravery and skill in aerial combat earned him the reputation of being the most spectacular air fighter of World War I. He shot down 18 airplanes and balloons in his short military career, showcasing his fearless determination and combat prowess.

Medal of Honor and International Recognition

For his extraordinary valor and achievements, Frank Luke Jr. was posthumously awarded the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor, as well as numerous international awards. His legacy as a fearless and skilled fighter ace continues to inspire future generations of aviators and military personnel.

Connection to Phoenix

Frank Luke Jr.'s connection to Phoenix, Arizona, is deeply rooted in his upbringing and family heritage. His birth in Phoenix and the influence of the sun-scorched desert landscape shaped his adventurous spirit and resilience, making him a proud representative of his hometown.

Legacy and Remembering Frank Luke Jr.

Frank Luke Jr.'s legacy extends beyond his aerial victories, as he is remembered for his exceptional bravery, combat skills, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. His life story continues to inspire future generations of aviators and military personnel.

Key Achievements of Frank Luke Jr.

• Credited with 18 aerial victories in World War I.

• Awarded the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor and numerous international awards.

• Remembered as the most spectacular air fighter of World War I.

• Inspires future generations of aviators and military personnel with his bravery and combat skills.

Frank Luke Jr.'s story is one of extraordinary bravery, exceptional skill, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. His legacy as the Arizona Balloon Buster continues to inspire and honor his memory in the annals of aviation history.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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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