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Welcome to The Denver Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• DBJ reveals 2024 CFO Award nominees.

• Poor Broncos season risks job losses.

• A deep-dive into the life of Ruth Handler.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced."

– James Baldwin

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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!

In Denver, which historic building serves as the city's main train station and a hub for dining and shopping?

A) Denver Union Station

B) The Brown Palace Hotel

C) Colorado State Capitol

D) McNichols Civic Center Building

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

Denver's professional baseball team is C) Colorado Rockies.

News

💼Business

Meet the nominees for the DBJ's 2024 CFO Awards. (link)

Denver dog owner scammed by pet search business. (link)

🏒Sports

If Broncos season goes poorly, two scapegoats will lose their jobs. (link)

Jonathan Haggerty Amped for Muay Thai Title Defense in Denver. (link)

🏦Finance

Real estate investor lists Littleton mansion for $12 million. (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 Broncos Training Camp
Broncos Park Powered by CommonSpirit, Englewood, CO
Monday, Jul 29th | 10:00 AM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
Monday, Jul 29th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

🎸Club Level Seating: Olivia Rodrigo
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Tuesday, Jul 30th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

Family

🎤 The Life and Art of Tokio Ueyama
100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO
Wednesday, Jul 31st | 5:30 pm | (More info)

✂️ 3D Hand Art: SOA Craft
2961 Roslyn St, Denver, CO
Monday, Jul 29th | 2:00 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 “High-tech entertainment district in Denver 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.

Denver Historical Events

1947 Blizzard - Another major natural disaster.

In 1947, Denver experienced a devastating blizzard that left an indelible mark on the city's history. The blizzard, which struck in early December, brought record-breaking snowfall and frigid temperatures, paralyzing the city and surrounding areas. The storm's impact was felt across the region, causing widespread power outages, transportation disruptions, and significant damage to infrastructure. Residents of Denver and the surrounding communities rallied together to overcome the challenges posed by the blizzard, demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of this major natural disaster.

The 1947 blizzard is remembered as one of the most severe winter storms to ever hit Denver, with snowfall totals reaching unprecedented levels. The city's streets were buried under several feet of snow, making travel nearly impossible and prompting the closure of schools, businesses, and public services. The blizzard's aftermath posed significant challenges for residents, as they worked tirelessly to clear snow, restore power, and ensure the safety of their fellow community members.

Despite the hardships caused by the 1947 blizzard, the people of Denver came together to support one another and rebuild in the storm's wake. The resilience and determination displayed during this natural disaster serve as a testament to the strength of the community and the enduring spirit of Denver residents. The 1947 blizzard remains a significant event in the city's history, reminding its inhabitants of the power of unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Famous People From Denver

Ruth Handler (1916-2002)- Co-founder of Mattel and creator of Barbie

Ruth Handler, the co-founder of Mattel and the creator of Barbie, was a visionary businesswoman and entrepreneur who revolutionized the toy industry. Her life story is a testament to creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.

Early Life and Family (1916-1935)

Ruth Mosko Handler, the youngest of ten children, was born on November 4, 1916, in Denver, Colorado, to Polish-born parents. Her father, Jacob Mosko, arrived in the United States in 1907 and settled in Denver, where Ruth spent her formative years. Despite growing up during a time of economic hardship, Ruth's upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Marriage (1936-1945)

In 1938, Ruth married her high school sweetheart, Elliot Handler, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership that would shape the toy industry. The couple's shared entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision laid the foundation for their future endeavors.

Founding of Mattel and Barbie Invention (1945-1959)

In 1945, Ruth and Elliot co-founded Mattel, a company that initially specialized in picture frames. However, Ruth's keen eye for market trends and consumer preferences led to the creation of the iconic Barbie doll in 1959. Ruth's inspiration for Barbie came from observing her daughter, Barbara, play with paper dolls and envisioning a three-dimensional, adult-like doll that would empower young girls to dream and imagine.

Barbie's Global Impact (1960s-1970s)

The launch of Barbie marked a turning point in the toy industry, as the doll quickly became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of female empowerment. Ruth's innovative marketing strategies and commitment to diversity and inclusivity ensured that Barbie resonated with children worldwide, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

Challenges and Triumphs (1980s-1990s)

Throughout her career, Ruth faced numerous challenges, including legal battles and controversies surrounding Barbie's image. However, her resilience and determination to uphold Barbie's positive influence on young girls propelled her to navigate these obstacles and secure Barbie's enduring legacy.

Later Years and Legacy (2000-2002)

Ruth Handler's later years were marked by her continued involvement in philanthropy and advocacy for women's empowerment. Her impact on the toy industry and her dedication to fostering creativity and imagination in children solidified her legacy as a trailblazing entrepreneur and visionary leader.

Key Achievements of Ruth Handler:

• Co-founded Mattel, a company that revolutionized the toy industry.

• Invented the iconic Barbie doll, which became a global cultural phenomenon.

• Pioneered innovative marketing strategies and promoted diversity and inclusivity through Barbie.

• Advocated for women's empowerment and creativity in children's play.

• Left a lasting legacy as a visionary businesswoman and entrepreneur.

Ruth Handler's story is one of creativity, resilience, and the power of imagination. Her pioneering spirit and commitment to empowering young girls through Barbie have left an indelible mark on the toy industry and popular culture, inspiring generations of children to dream and aspire to greatness.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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