Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Major shopping malls set for massive redevelopment

• Phoenix history on the arrival of archaic Indians

• A deep-dive into the life of Barry Goldwater

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

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 what year was Phoenix officially recognized as a city?

A) 1865

B) 1881

C) 1900

D) 1912

News

💼 Business

Economic transformation is underway with projects like the Procter & Gamble manufacturing plant in Coolidge and Kohler Co.'s manufacturing plant gearing up. (link)

The semiconductor packaging and testing campus by Amkor Technology in Peoria and battery manufacturing plants by LG Energy Solution and KORE Power indicate a tech and energy sector boom. (link)

Major shopping malls like Metrocenter, Paradise Valley Mall, and Fiesta Mall are set for massive redevelopment projects. (link)

Chandler businessman Glenn Jordan is set to reopen All American Eyeglass Repair, following a gas explosion in 2021. (link)

🏒 Sports

2024 Annexus Pro-Am at the WM Phoenix Open announced player commitments, including Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and Olympic soccer star Carli Lloyd. (link)

The Suns triumphed over the Mavericks with a score of 132-109, led by Devin Booker's outstanding performance. (link)

Phoenix Suns vs Indiana Pacers (January 22, 2024): Kevin Durant scored 40 points, leading the Suns to a 117-110 victory against the Pacers, marking their fifth consecutive win. (link)

🏦 Finance

Economists are closely watching the first Q4 2023 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report estimate, set to be released on January 25. (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

🏀 Arizona State Sun Devils Basketball vs. Stanford
Mullett Arena
Thursday, Feb. 1st | (More Info)

🏒 Arizona State Sun Devils Hockey vs. Lindenwood University
Desert Financial Arena
Friday, Feb. 2nd | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 BARRY CAN'T SWIM
Walter Where?House
Friday, Feb. 2nd | (More Info)

🎤 Magneto, JNS, Sentidos Opuestos, Kabah, Calo, Moenia, Lynda (MX), GB5, and MDO
Arizona Financial Theatre
Friday, Feb. 2nd | (More Info)

🎸 BIJOU
The Van Buren
Friday, Feb. 2nd | (More Info)

Family

🌟 Holiday Lights
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Until Feb 12th | (More Info)

🎨 Arizona Fine Art Expo
26540 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p | (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 as a giant eco-friendly treehouse community” 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

Arrival of archaic Indians who later became the Hohokam people, developing extensive irrigation systems

The Hohokam period marks a significant era in the prehistory of the Phoenix area, beginning before the Common Era with the arrival of archaic Indians. These early settlers evolved into the Hohokam people, known for their remarkable advancements in agriculture and community planning. They developed extensive and sophisticated irrigation systems, harnessing the waters of the Salt River, which allowed them to support large, stable populations and cultivate various crops.

The Hohokam were not only skilled farmers but also proficient in crafting and trade. They created intricate pottery, jewelry, and stone tools, and their trade networks extended throughout the region. Their social and cultural practices were closely tied to their environment, and they held a deep understanding of the local ecology, which was integral to their survival and prosperity.

The legacy of the Hohokam is evident in the Phoenix area's archaeological sites, where remnants of their irrigation canals, dwellings, and artifacts are found. These ancient canals laid the foundation for modern Phoenix's own irrigation systems, showcasing the lasting impact of the Hohokam's innovative engineering. Their disappearance around the 15th century remains a subject of research and fascination, adding a layer of mystery to their historical significance in the region.

Famous People From Phoenix

Barry Goldwater

Early Life and Military Service (1909-1930)

Barry Goldwater was born on January 2, 1909, in Phoenix, Arizona. Growing up in a family that ran a prominent department store, Goldwater was instilled with a strong work ethic. He attended Staunton Military Academy in Virginia and later enrolled at the United States Military Academy, but withdrew due to academic challenges.

Business Career and Early Political Involvement (1931-1950)

Returning to Phoenix, Goldwater took over the family business, Goldwater's Department Store, and expanded it successfully. His business acumen and community involvement laid the groundwork for his political career.

Entry into Politics (1951-1960)

Goldwater's political journey began with his election to the Phoenix City Council. His conservative views and charismatic personality quickly made him a notable figure in Arizona politics.

U.S. Senate Career and Conservatism Advocate (1961-1964)

Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1952, Goldwater became a strong advocate for conservatism, opposing the New Deal policies and advocating for limited government and free-market economics.

1964 Presidential Campaign (1964)

Goldwater secured the Republican nomination for President in 1964. His campaign, though ultimately unsuccessful against Lyndon B. Johnson, laid the foundation for the modern conservative movement.

Continued Influence in the Senate (1965-1980)

After his presidential bid, Goldwater returned to the Senate, where he continued to influence national policy. He played a significant role in defense and foreign policy and was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War.

Retirement and Reflection (1981-1986)

Goldwater retired from the Senate in 1986. In retirement, he reflected on his political career, emphasizing the importance of political integrity and principled leadership.

Barry Goldwater’s Key Achievements:

• Influential U.S. Senator from Arizona and major figure in conservative politics.

• 1964 Republican Presidential nominee, paving the way for the conservative movement.

• Advocate for limited government and individual liberties.

• His legacy in Arizona politics and national conservative ideology remains influential.

Barry Goldwater's impact on American politics, particularly the conservative movement, was profound. From his early days in Phoenix to his national prominence, Goldwater's advocacy for conservatism, defense policies, and individual liberties marked a significant era in U.S. political history. His legacy continues to influence conservative ideology and policy-making.

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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