Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Arizona spring baseball championships

• Upcoming Arizona Science Center event

• A deep-dive into the life of Wesley Bolin

• And more…

Quote of the Week

Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.

– John Lennon

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 which Phoenix museum can you find the original Wright Flyer airplane?

A) Phoenix Art Museum

B) Arizona Science Center

C) Musical Instrument Museum

D) Pueblo Grande Museum

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The river that runs through Phoenix is C) Salt River.

News

💼 Business

TSMC Arizona celebrated a milestone with the "topping out" ceremony for its second semiconductor fab in Phoenix​​. (Link)

Wedgewood Pharmacy breaks ground on a 90,000-square-foot veterinary pharmacy in Chandler, expanding its footprint in the region​​. (Link)

Peoria City Council approves a Development Agreement for Amkor Technology to build the country's largest semiconductor packaging and test facility​​. (Link)

American Airlines initiates new international service from Phoenix to Tijuana, Mexico, enhancing connectivity and trade relations​​. (Link)

🏒 Sports

The Arizona Diamondbacks announce their lineup for the upcoming MLB season, highlighting new signings and prospects. (Link)

Phoenix Suns face off against the Los Angeles Lakers, showcasing a pivotal matchup for playoff positioning. (Link)

🏦 Finance

The Flinn Foundation adds two Phoenix business leaders to its board, aiming to boost the biosciences and innovation industries​​. (Link)

U.S. Senator Mark Kelly addresses the International Economic Development Council in Phoenix, focusing on economic development and innovation​​. (Link)

Saras Micro Devices celebrates the grand opening of its new headquarters and manufacturing facility in Chandler, marking a significant investment in the semiconductor sector​​. (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

⚾ Cactus League Spring Training
Various Locations, Phoenix Area
March 4 - March 10 |​​ (More Info)

⚾ Arizona Spring Championships (Session #2)
Phoenix, AZ
March 7 - March 10 |​​ (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Skizzy Mars
Valley Bar, Phoenix
March 4 | (More Info)

🎸 RX Bandits
The Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix
March 8 | (More Info)

🎷 Real Estate
The Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix
March 9 | (More Info)

🎤 Birdtalker
Valley Bar, Phoenix
March 9 | (More Info)

🤘 Escape the Fate
Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix
March 10 | (More Info)

🎤 Crosses
The Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ
Tuesday, Mar. 5, 2024 | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🌊 OceanXperience—Only at Arizona Science Center
Arizona Science Center, Arizona
March 6 - March 13 | 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM | (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 within a giant biodome” 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

Gadsden Purchase (1853) - U.S. acquisition of land including the Phoenix area from Mexico.

In 1853, the Gadsden Purchase marked a significant event in United States history as the nation acquired a substantial amount of land, including the area that would later become Phoenix, from Mexico. This acquisition was the result of negotiations between the two countries, with the United States seeking to secure a southern route for a transcontinental railroad. The purchase, named after American diplomat James Gadsden, involved the payment of $10 million to Mexico in exchange for approximately 29,670 square miles of territory. The land acquired through the Gadsden Purchase played a crucial role in the expansion of the United States and the development of the American Southwest.

The Gadsden Purchase had a profound impact on the region that would eventually become Phoenix, Arizona. The acquisition of this land opened up new opportunities for settlement and development, leading to the establishment of towns and cities in the area. The fertile land and favorable climate of the region attracted settlers, and the arrival of the railroad further facilitated the growth of the area. As a result, Phoenix emerged as a key urban center in the American Southwest, with its strategic location and natural resources contributing to its rapid development.

Today, the legacy of the Gadsden Purchase is evident in the rich history and cultural heritage of Phoenix and the surrounding region. The acquisition of this land from Mexico not only shaped the physical landscape of the area but also influenced its demographic and economic growth. The Gadsden Purchase remains a pivotal moment in the history of the United States, and its impact on the development of Phoenix continues to be celebrated and remembered.

Famous People From Phoenix

Wesley Bolin (1909-1978)

From Farm Boy to Arizona's Shortest-Serving Governor:

Wesley Bolin, a prominent American Democratic Party politician, was born on a farm near Butler, Missouri, on July 1, 1909. His family moved to Phoenix when he was seven years old, and he graduated from Phoenix Union High School and Phoenix College. Bolin worked with several business firms in the Salt River Valley before being elected constable of West Phoenix Precinct in 1938. Prior to ascending to the Governorship, Bolin was the longest-serving Secretary of State of Arizona, serving 28 years. His five months in office mark the shortest term in office for any Arizona governor. Bolin passed away on March 4, 1978, leaving behind a legacy of public service and political leadership.

Early Life and Career:

Wesley Bolin was born on a farm near Butler, Missouri, on July 1, 1909. His family moved to Phoenix when he was seven years old, and he graduated from Phoenix Union High School and Phoenix College. Bolin worked with several business firms in the Salt River Valley before being elected constable of West Phoenix Precinct in 1938.

Longest-serving Secretary of State (1938-1966):

Bolin served as the longest-serving Secretary of State of Arizona, holding the position for 28 years. During his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping Arizona's political landscape and governance.

Governorship and Shortest Term (1977-1978):

Bolin's political career culminated in his appointment as the 15th governor of Arizona between 1977 and 1978. His five months in office mark the shortest term in office for any Arizona governor.

Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza:

The Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza is an urban park and gathering place in front of the Arizona state capitol complex in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. It is the site of various memorials honoring prominent figures, wars, and events in Arizona history.

Key Achievements of Wesley Bolin:

• Longest-serving Secretary of State of Arizona, serving for 28 years.

• Shortest term in office for any Arizona governor.

• Honored with the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza in downtown Phoenix.

• Played a significant role in shaping Arizona's political landscape and governance.

• Remembered for his dedication to public service and political leadership.

Wesley Bolin's legacy as a dedicated public servant and political leader continues to be honored in Arizona, particularly in Phoenix, where his contributions to the state's governance and history are celebrated.

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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