Welcome to The Seattle Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Dark Star Orchestra performance

• A deep-dive into the life of Chief Seattle

• AI art of our city

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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!

What is the name of the iconic Seattle market known for its fresh seafood, vibrant produce stalls, and the famous "flying fish"?

A) Pike Place Market

B) Ballard Farmers Market

C) Fremont Market

D) University District Farmers Market

News

💼 Business

Seattle-based 3D laser engraver maker Glowforge laid off more employees after an investment round fell through​​. (link)

Skyglass Tower opening: A new residential tower named Skyglass Tower, featuring over 300 apartments and a rooftop pool, is set to open in mid-February 2024 in Seattle's South Lake Union​​. (link)

Seattle Storm Center for Basketball Performance: A dedicated training facility for the Seattle Storm is opening in 2024, enhancing local sports infrastructure and performance development​​. (link)

Pickleball-focused hotel: A new hotel with rooftop pickleball courts, a pro shop, and bleachers is coming to Seattle's Interbay, marking an innovative blend of hospitality and sports​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Jordan Eberle led the Seattle Kraken to a 4-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets with two goals and an assist​​. (link)

Seattle University's men's tennis team lost both matches in Portland against Portland State University and the University of Portland​​. (link)

The Seattle University women's basketball team continued their season struggles, losing games against Grand Canyon University and California Baptist University, dropping to a 1-19 record​​. (link)

The Seattle University men's basketball team split their road trip, winning a tight game against California Baptist University but losing to Grand Canyon University. (link)

🏦 Finance

Seattle-based biotech company NanoString Technologies announced it has initiated a Chapter 11 bankruptcy plan and is exploring a potential sale​​. (link)

A Seattle startup named Validated, which uses AI to generate ads for product insights, raised $1.2M​​. (link)

Ex-Amazon and Airbnb engineers raised $1.25M for Seattle startup Cimba.ai, an enterprise AI agent developer​​. (link)

Business owners in Seattle's Madison Valley expressed frustration with ongoing construction related to the $130 million Madison RapidRide G line. (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

🏀 Abilene Christian Wildcats at Seattle U Redhawks Men's Basketball
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
Thursday, February 8th | (More Info)

🏀 Stanford Cardinal at Washington Huskies Women's Basketball
Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion, Seattle, WA
Friday, February 9th | (More Info)

🏒 Victoria Royals at Seattle Thunderbirds
ShoWare Center, Kent, WA
Friday, February 9th | (More Info)

🏀 Tarleton State Texans at Seattle U Redhawks Men's Basketball
Redhawk Center, Seattle, WA
Saturday, February 10th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 The Temptations & The Four Tops
Paramount Theatre, Seattle, WA
Saturday, February 10th | (More Info)

🎤 Eric Bellinger
The Showbox, Seattle, WA
Thursday, February 8th | (More Info)

🎵 Dark Star Orchestra
The Showbox, Seattle, WA
Friday, February 9th | (More Info)

🎸 Gov't Mule
Moore Theatre, Seattle, WA
Friday, February 9th | (More Info)

Family

🎥 Children’s Film Festival Seattle
Northwest Film Forum, Seattle
February 5-10, 2024 | (More Info)

🐾 Kids ’n’ Critters at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Eatonville
February 9-11, 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 “Seattle with domed buildings” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Seattle Historical Events

Founding of Seattle (1851)

The founding of Seattle in 1851 is a pivotal event in the history of the Pacific Northwest, marking the inception of what would become one of the United States' major cities. Led by Arthur A. Denny and known as the Denny Party, a group of pioneers from Illinois landed at Alki Point on November 13, 1851. This momentous arrival signified the beginning of the settlement in an area that was then characterized by dense forests and inhabited by Native American tribes. The Denny Party's journey and subsequent landing at Alki Point were driven by the promise of opportunities in the uncharted territories of the West, symbolizing the broader westward expansion and pioneering spirit of the era.

In the harsh conditions of the Pacific Northwest, the settlers faced numerous challenges, from inclement weather to the difficulty of cultivating the land. Despite these initial hardships, the community persevered, relocating in the spring of 1852 to the eastern shore of Elliott Bay, which offered a more sheltered and suitable location for the growing settlement. This move marked the true foundation of Seattle, named after Chief Si'ahl (Sealth) of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes. The cooperative relationship between the settlers and the Native American tribes was instrumental in the survival and growth of the fledgling community, embodying the complexities of American expansion.

Seattle's establishment in 1851 laid the groundwork for its development into a thriving urban center, driven by the timber industry and later bolstered by the Klondike Gold Rush towards the end of the 19th century. The city's strategic location and rich natural resources catalyzed its growth, transforming it from a remote outpost into a vital gateway for trade and migration. The story of Seattle's founding by Arthur A. Denny and the Denny Party remains a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and resilience, shaping the city's identity and its role in the broader narrative of American history.

Famous People From Seattle

Chief Seattle (c. 1786–1866)

Early Life and Ascension to Leadership (1786-1820)

Chief Seattle, born around 1786, was a leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes in what is now the state of Washington. His early life was marked by significant interactions between his people and European settlers, setting the stage for his role as a mediator and advocate for Native American rights.

Interactions with European Settlers (1821-1850)

As European settlers began to arrive in the Pacific Northwest, Chief Seattle emerged as a key figure in the interactions between Native American tribes and the newcomers. Known for his wisdom and diplomacy, he sought to ensure peace and understanding between diverse communities.

Treaty of Point Elliott (1855)

Chief Seattle's leadership was instrumental during the negotiations of the Treaty of Point Elliott in 1855, where he advocated for the rights and welfare of his people. The treaty ceded land to the United States but also guaranteed fishing rights and reservations for the Suquamish and other tribes. Seattle's foresight in negotiating terms demonstrated his commitment to securing a sustainable future for his people.

Advocacy for Peace and Coexistence (Throughout Leadership)

Throughout his tenure as chief, Seattle was a staunch advocate for peace and coexistence between Native Americans and settlers. His speeches and actions reflected a deep understanding of the changes his people faced and a hopeful vision for a harmonious future.

Famous Speech on Native American Rights (1854)

Chief Seattle is best remembered for a speech given in 1854, attributed to him in response to a U.S. government inquiry about buying tribal lands. While the exact words are debated, the speech poignantly expresses respect for the environment and profound sorrow over the loss of Native American land and culture.

Legacy and Memory (1855-1866)

Chief Seattle's legacy is one of leadership, diplomacy, and advocacy for the rights and dignity of his people. His efforts to protect Native American culture and land rights during a period of rapid change and settlement have left a lasting impact on the region.

The Naming of Seattle (Posthumous Recognition)

After his death in 1866, the city of Seattle was named in his honor, a testament to his significance in the region's history and his role as a figure of peace and respect between Native Americans and European settlers.

Cultural and Environmental Impact (Beyond 1866)

Chief Seattle's wisdom and advocacy have transcended his lifetime, influencing contemporary discussions on environmental stewardship and Native American rights. His legacy is invoked in movements for ecological preservation and respect for indigenous cultures.

Death and Enduring Influence (1866)

Chief Seattle passed away in 1866, but his influence endures. He is remembered as a visionary leader whose words and actions continue to inspire efforts towards understanding, peace, and environmental respect.

Key Achievements:

• Played a pivotal role in negotiations with European settlers, advocating for Native American rights.

• Instrumental in the Treaty of Point Elliott, securing reservations and rights for his people.

• His speeches, particularly the 1854 address, have become emblematic of the respect for nature and sorrow over cultural loss.

• The city of Seattle bears his name, symbolizing his lasting impact on the region and its history.

Chief Seattle's life from a respected tribal leader to an enduring symbol of Native American dignity and environmental consciousness showcases a legacy of profound leadership and advocacy. His efforts to navigate the complexities of cultural change, his visionary speeches on rights and respect, and his name's lasting presence in the city of Seattle all reflect a deep commitment to his people and the natural world. Chief Seattle remains an iconic figure in American history, embodying the spirit of reconciliation, respect, and foresight.

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

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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