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Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Mesa hospital acquired as part $160M deal; plus 10 more deals to know.

• Upcoming Arizona Diamondbacks match

• A deep-dive into the life of Doug Hopkins

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

–Maya Angelou

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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 Phoenix mountain is known for its distinctive red sandstone formations?

A) Camelback Mountain

B) Piestewa Peak

C) Papago Park

D) South Mountain

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The largest university in Phoenix is B) Arizona State University.

News

💼Business

Large chunk of 25,000-acre West Valley site could turn into industrial. (Link)

Scottsdale homebuilder buys land for active adult resort. (Link)

🏒Sports

Grading Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen's biggest hits and misses at the MLB trade deadline. (Link)

Phoenix Mercury forward Rebecca Allen to miss Olympics with hamstring injury. (Link)

🏦Finance

Mesa hospital acquired as part $160M deal; plus 10 more deals to know. (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

⚾ Washington Nationals at Arizona Diamondbacks
Chase Field, Phoenix
Monday, July 29 to Wednesday, July 31, 2024 | (More info)

⚾ Parking D-backs vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Chase Field, Phoenix
Thursday, August 8, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Aventura
Footprint Center, Phoenix
Monday, July 29, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Janet Jackson
Footprint Center, Phoenix
Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | (More info)

Family

🌐 Brain Time for Toddlers
215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 | (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 entertainment district in Phoenix with virtual reality arcades” 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

Orangedale Founding (Later Scottsdale) (1894) - Establishment of a neighboring community.

In 1894, the establishment of Orangedale marked the founding of a neighboring community that would later become known as Scottsdale. Orangedale was founded by Winfield Scott, an enterprising pioneer who saw the potential of the area for agriculture and community development. The fertile land and abundant water supply made Orangedale an ideal location for citrus farming, and Scott's vision for the community began to take shape. As more settlers arrived, the community grew, and the foundations of what would become the vibrant city of Scottsdale were laid.

The establishment of Orangedale brought a wave of growth and prosperity to the region. The community became a hub for agricultural activity, with citrus orchards and farms flourishing in the fertile soil. The arrival of the railroad further fueled the development of Orangedale, making it easier to transport goods and connect with neighboring towns. As the community continued to expand, it attracted more residents and businesses, laying the groundwork for the future development of Scottsdale as a thriving city in the heart of Arizona.

The founding of Orangedale in 1894 laid the groundwork for the transformation of the area into the modern city of Scottsdale. The community's rich agricultural heritage and pioneering spirit continue to be celebrated today, serving as a reminder of the resilience and vision of the early settlers who shaped the region's history. Orangedale's legacy lives on in the vibrant culture, thriving economy, and strong sense of community that define Scottsdale, making it a testament to the enduring legacy of its founding pioneers.

Famous People From Phoenix

Doug Hopkins - (1961-1993)

Doug Hopkins, a talented musician and songwriter, was a founding member of the Gin Blossoms and a significant figure in the Phoenix music scene. His life and career were marked by creative brilliance, personal struggles, and enduring musical influence.

Early Life and Musical Passion (1961-1985)

Doug Hopkins was born in Seattle, Washington, on April 11, 1961, and later moved to Tempe, Arizona, where he attended McClintock High School. His passion for music emerged during his formative years, and he honed his skills while attending Arizona State University, where he graduated with a degree in sociology in 1985.

Founding the Gin Blossoms (1987-1992)

In late 1987, Doug Hopkins co-founded the Gin Blossoms, a band that would become a local favorite in Tempe, Arizona. His songwriting prowess and musical talent played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and contributing to their early success.

Musical Achievements and Struggles (1980s-1990s)

Hopkins' songwriting skills were evident in the Gin Blossoms' breakthrough hits, including Hey Jealousy and Found Out About You. Despite his musical achievements, Hopkins faced personal struggles and wrestled with various demons, which ultimately led to his departure from the band in 1992.

Legacy and Influence (Post-1993)

Following his departure from the Gin Blossoms, Doug Hopkins' musical legacy continued to resonate with fans and fellow musicians. His songwriting contributions and impact on the Phoenix music scene were remembered and celebrated, solidifying his status as a revered figure in the local music community.

Remembering Doug Hopkins (1993 and Beyond)

Doug Hopkins tragically passed away in 1993, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences. His story serves as a reminder of the beauty and tragedy that often intertwine in the world of music, and his influence on the Gin Blossoms' sound remains an enduring part of their identity.

Key Achievements of Doug Hopkins:

• Co-founding member of the Gin Blossoms, contributing to the band's early success.

• Songwriting credits for the Gin Blossoms' hit songs Hey Jealousy and Found Out About You.

• Enduring influence on the Phoenix music scene and local musicians.

• Remembered as a talented musician and songwriter, despite personal struggles.

• Legacy as a pivotal figure in the Gin Blossoms' musical journey.

Doug Hopkins' story is one of creative brilliance, personal struggles, and enduring musical influence. His impact on the Phoenix music scene and the Gin Blossoms' sound remains significant and enduring.

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

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