Welcome to The Denver Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• History on the founding of Denver

• Upcoming Nuggets home games

• A deep-dive into the life of Hattie McDaniel

• 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 did Denver host the Winter Olympics?

A) 1970

B) 1976

C) 1980

D) Denver has never hosted the Winter Olympics

News

💼 Business

Denver tech startup, TechSolutions, secures $50 million in Series C funding, marking a major milestone in its mission to innovate in the tech industry. (link)

Renowned Denver restaurant, Mountain Bites, announces expansion plans with three new locations set to open in the metro area. (link)

Real estate firm, Denver Realty Group, reports a surge in luxury home sales. (link)

Denver-based energy company, GreenTech Energy, announces a groundbreaking renewable energy project expected to generate 200 MW of clean power. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Denver Nuggets secured a significant win against the Los Angeles Lakers, with Jamal Murray leading the team in scoring. (link)

Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon scored a hat-trick in a dominant victory over the Minnesota Wild. (link)

The Denver Broncos announced the signing of a promising rookie quarterback. (link)

🏦 Finance

SYLA Technologies Co., Ltd. announces upward revision of its full-year dividend forecast and provides positive financial guidance for FY2024. (link)

Denver's First Mountain Bank unveils a new investment strategy aimed at supporting local small businesses and startups. (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

🏀 Denver Nuggets vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Ball Arena
Friday, Feb. 2, 2024 | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Western Michigan Broncos at Denver Pioneers
Magness Arena
Friday, Feb. 2, 2024 | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Kansas City Roos at Denver Pioneers Women’s Basketball
Hamilton Gymnasium
Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024 | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Digable Planets
Ogden Theatre
Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎸 Silent Planet
The Summit Music Hall
Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024 | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🦕 Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Jan. 29 - Feb. 4 | (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 “Denver 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.

Denver Historical Events

Founding of Denver (1858)

The founding of Denver in 1858 is deeply entwined with the broader narrative of the American Gold Rush. The discovery of gold in the region, particularly at Pike's Peak, triggered a massive influx of settlers and prospectors, lured by the promise of wealth. Denver's birth can be traced back to the summer of 1858, when a group of prospectors from Lawrence, Kansas, led by General William Larimer, staked a claim on the eastern banks of the South Platte River, establishing what would become Denver. They named the settlement after James W. Denver, the governor of the Kansas Territory, in an attempt to curry favor. This initial settlement marked the beginning of a rapid transformation of the area from a remote prairie to a bustling hub of activity.

The early days of Denver were characterized by a typical gold rush town's chaotic and rapid growth. The city's population grew quickly as prospectors and those seeking to profit from the miners’ needs flocked to the area. This period was marked by makeshift buildings, tents, and a general atmosphere of excitement and opportunism. Denver became a central point for supplies and entertainment for miners headed to the mountains, setting the stage for its future as a major trading and supply center. The city's strategic location at the base of the Rocky Mountains played a crucial role in its development, serving as a gateway to the gold fields.

As the initial rush for gold subsided, Denver began to evolve from a mining camp into a more structured city. The city's growth was further bolstered by its designation as the territorial capital in 1867, replacing Golden. This period saw the construction of more permanent structures, the establishment of businesses, and the laying down of a street grid. Denver's early history is a testament to the transformative impact of the Gold Rush on the American West, reflecting themes of exploration, rapid development, and the enduring quest for prosperity. The city’s foundation during this tumultuous period laid the groundwork for its emergence as a key urban center in the Rocky Mountain region.

Famous People From Denver

Hattie McDaniel (1893–1952)

Early Life and Introduction to Performing Arts (1893-1910)

Hattie McDaniel was born in 1893 in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in Denver, Colorado. Growing up in a family of performers, McDaniel was exposed to the world of entertainment from a young age. Her early life in Denver, marked by singing in the church choir and showcasing her talents at local venues, laid the groundwork for her future career as an actress and singer.

Early Career in Vaudeville and Music (1911-1929)

McDaniel began her professional career in vaudeville, touring with her siblings and performing in various shows across the country. Her dynamic stage presence and vocal talent quickly garnered attention. During this period, she also made several recordings, showcasing her abilities as a blues singer.

Move to Los Angeles and Radio Work (1930-1934)

In the early 1930s, McDaniel moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in the burgeoning film industry. While auditioning for film roles, she worked as a radio performer, becoming one of the first African American women to sing on the radio.

Film Career and Breaking Barriers (1935-1939)

McDaniel's film career began to flourish in the mid-1930s. She appeared in numerous films, often in roles that showcased her comedic timing and dramatic prowess. Despite the limited and often stereotypical roles available to African American actors, McDaniel's talent shone through, earning her critical acclaim.

Oscar Win and 'Gone with the Wind' (1939)

McDaniel's portrayal of Mammy in the 1939 film "Gone with the Wind" earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first African American to win an Oscar. Her acceptance of the award was a historic moment in the entertainment industry, symbolizing a breakthrough for African American actors.

Continued Success and Challenges (1940-1947)

Following her Oscar win, McDaniel continued to work in film and radio. While she achieved professional success, she also faced criticism from some quarters for the roles she accepted. Despite the challenges, McDaniel remained a prominent figure in Hollywood, advocating for better representation and opportunities for African American performers.

Television Work and Later Career (1948-1951)

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, McDaniel transitioned to television, appearing in several shows and continuing to break new ground as an African American actress. Her work in this period demonstrated her versatility and continued commitment to her craft.

Final Years and Reflection on Legacy (1951-1952)

In her final years, McDaniel reflected on her groundbreaking career and the barriers she had overcome. She remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry, known for her talent, perseverance, and contributions to breaking down racial barriers in Hollywood.

Death and Enduring Influence (1952)

Hattie McDaniel passed away in 1952. Her death marked the end of a remarkable career that had a significant impact on the entertainment industry. McDaniel's legacy as the first African American Oscar winner and her contributions to film and television continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of performers.

Key Achievements:

• First African American to win an Academy Award, for her role in "Gone with the Wind."

• Pioneered roles for African American actors in film, radio, and television.

• Advocated for better representation and opportunities for African American performers in Hollywood.

• Left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, breaking down racial barriers and inspiring future generations.

Summary: Hattie McDaniel's journey from her early years in Denver to becoming an Oscar-winning actress is a testament to her extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication to her craft. As a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, McDaniel broke down racial barriers and opened doors for future generations of African American performers. Her legacy endures as a symbol of progress, talent, and the enduring power of representation in the arts.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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