We’re turning one! (And buying you a $100 gift card 🎂)
Welcome to issue #52!! of Trail Mix, a weekly newsletter that’s about the people, places, history, and happenings in Southeastern Arizona.
When we sent out the very first edition of this newsletter 365 days ago, I was equal parts thrilled and terrified. Starting something new—especially something centered on capturing the heart and soul of a place growing as fast as ours—always feels like a leap of faith.
Well, this week is officially our 1st birthday. One whole year in your inbox! 🎈
Looking back at the last 12 months feels a bit like looking at a crowded family photo album. Together, we’ve:
Shared hundreds of local stories & events—from quiet neighborhood milestones to the biggest weekend festivals.
Launched our community’s first digital calendar, making "there's nothing to do this weekend" an officially retired phrase.
Connected local residents with small businesses, helping keep our hometown dollars right here where they belong.
Kept our roots strong, preserving the spirit and history of this town even as new houses and shops pop up overnight.
None of this exists without you opening these emails, clicking the links, and caring about this place as much as I do. So, I want to buy you a birthday present.
To say a massive thank you, I’m giving away a $100 gift card to any local business of your choice (or split into two $50 gift cards if you have two favorites you just can't choose between!).
Bonus: Once you enter on the page, you’ll get a unique link to share with friends and neighbors. Every person who signs up using your link gets you extra entries!
Quick Question for You...
Since it’s our birthday, I’m doing a little reflecting on how we can make year two even better for you. Do me a quick favor and tap your answer below!
What’s been your favorite part of the newsletter this past year?
💡 A Friendly Reminder: The Calendar is Yours!
Speaking of our community calendar... did you know anyone can post to it for free?
Whether you’re hosting a weekend pop-up, running a farm stand on the side of the road, organizing a garage sale, or putting on a church fundraiser—this calendar belongs to the whole town.
One last thing before you go...
Hit Reply to this email and tell me: What was your absolute favorite story or feature we covered this past year?
I read every single reply, and honestly, hearing from you is the best birthday gift I could ask for.
Here’s to year two!
SEE YOU OUT THERE
Publisher, Arizona Trail Mix
Southern Arizona's Unofficial Hype Woman
P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are three ways to get more involved with the newsletter:
Buy me a coffee: If you love reading this update every week and want to support the time and energy that goes into writing it, you can buy me a coffee right here. (It keeps the lights on here, gears turning, and the caffeine flowing!)
Want to reach Vail? This newsletter lands directly in the inboxes of local residents who love and live in our community. If you're a business owner looking to get in front of an engaged, local audience, let’s talk advertising.
Have an event to promote? Get it featured at the top of the newsletter leading up to your big day. Reserve your spotlight spot here.
(And keep your eyes peeled... I’m quietly cooking up a local Dinner Club idea to help us all meet some new neighborhood faces soon! Sound enticing to meet locals with shared interests? Hit reply and let me know if you’d be interested!)