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Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• $20 billion data center campus gets green light in Buckeye.

• Upcoming Phoenix Mercury match

• A deep-dive into the life of Rita Coolidge

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” 

— Arthur Ashe

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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!

Which Phoenix park is known for its large-scale public art installations and urban lake?

A) Encanto Park

B) Margaret T. Hance Park

C) Papago Park

D) Steele Indian School Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual music festival held at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix is A) McDowell Mountain Music Festival.

News

💼Business

Phoenix still tops the nation in industrial construction. (Link)

Phoenix Suns bring back paper ticket stubs to boost revenue, memories. (Link)

🏒Sports

Jeff Sims had 'good day' while Sam Leavitt struggles in ASU quarterback competition. (Link)

Arizona Wildcats football among most overrated college football teams entering 2024 season. (Link)

🏦Finance

$20 billion data center campus gets green light in Buckeye. (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

⚽ North Carolina FC at Phoenix Rising FC
Phoenix Rising Stadium, Phoenix
Saturday, Aug 24th | (More info)

🏀 New York Liberty at Phoenix Mercury
Footprint Center, Phoenix
Mon, Aug 26th - Wed, Aug 28th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Riley Downing
The Rebel Lounge, Phoenix
Monday, Aug 19th | (More info)

🎵 Kings of Leon
Arizona Financial Theatre, Phoenix
Tuesday, Aug 20th | (More info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
4921 E Ray Rd, Phoenix
Wednesday, Aug 21st | (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 “Futuristic Phoenix with advanced weather control systems” 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

First Private Gas Lighting Company (1886) - Start of modern lighting in Phoenix.

The First Private Gas Lighting Company, established in 1886, marked the beginning of modern lighting in Phoenix. The company, known as the Phoenix Illuminating Gas & Electric Company, was founded by Japanese immigrant Hutchlon Ohnick and his partners. They manufactured gas from oil and installed gas lines to power Downtown Phoenix, enabling the installation of the city's first gas streetlights in 1887. This innovation brought a new era of illumination to the city, transforming the nighttime landscape and providing a safer and more vibrant environment for residents and businesses.

The introduction of gas lighting in Phoenix was a significant milestone in the city's history, representing a leap forward in technological advancement and urban development. The availability of gas-powered streetlights not only illuminated the city streets but also contributed to the growth and expansion of Phoenix as a modern metropolis. The impact of the First Private Gas Lighting Company was felt throughout the community, enhancing public safety, enabling nighttime activities, and laying the foundation for further advancements in lighting technology.

The legacy of the First Private Gas Lighting Company lives on in the modern landscape of Phoenix, as it paved the way for the evolution of lighting technology and infrastructure in the city. The company's pioneering efforts in bringing gas lighting to Phoenix set the stage for future innovations in lighting and power, shaping the urban environment and enhancing the quality of life for generations to come.

Famous People From Phoenix

Rita Coolidge - (1944-Present) Grammy-winning singer.

Rita Coolidge, a two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, has captivated audiences with her soulful voice and timeless hits. Her career spans decades, marked by chart-topping albums and collaborations with renowned artists. From her early life in Tennessee to her rise to stardom, Coolidge's journey is a testament to her enduring talent and musical legacy.

Early Life and Musical Influences (1944-1960s)

Rita Coolidge was born on May 1, 1944, in Lafayette, Tennessee, near Nashville. Growing up in a musically inclined family, she was exposed to various genres and developed a deep appreciation for music. Coolidge's Cherokee and Scottish ancestry played a significant role in shaping her musical identity and inspiring her to explore diverse cultural influences.

Rise to Prominence in the Music Industry (1970s)

In the 1970s, Coolidge's career soared as she emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry. Her soulful voice and captivating stage presence garnered widespread acclaim, leading to the release of chart-topping albums such as Anytime...Anywhere. Coolidge's collaborations with iconic artists, including Eric Clapton and Stephen Stills, further solidified her status as a musical powerhouse.

Grammy-Winning Success and Musical Achievements (1970s-1980s)

Coolidge's exceptional talent was recognized with two Grammy Awards, cementing her position as a celebrated singer and songwriter. Her contributions to the music industry extended beyond her solo career, as she continued to deliver captivating performances and produce timeless hits that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Personal Life and Autobiography (1973-2016)

In 1973, Coolidge married singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson, marking a significant chapter in her personal life. Their union and subsequent divorce in 1980 were accompanied by the joys and challenges of navigating the spotlight as a high-profile couple. In 2016, Coolidge shared her life story in her autobiography, Delta Lady: A Memoir, offering readers a glimpse into her remarkable journey and experiences in the music industry.

Connection to Phoenix and Continued Musical Legacy

Rita Coolidge's connection to Phoenix, Arizona, is evident through her enduring impact on the local music scene and her contributions to the cultural tapestry of the city. Her influence extends beyond geographical boundaries, as her music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Key Achievements of Rita Coolidge:

• Two-time Grammy Award winner for her exceptional contributions to the music industry.

• Chart-topping albums and collaborations with iconic artists, including Eric Clapton and Stephen Stills.

• Author of the autobiography Delta Lady: A Memoir, offering insights into her remarkable journey.

• Enduring musical legacy and cultural impact, transcending geographical boundaries.

• Recognition of her Cherokee and Scottish ancestry, shaping her musical identity and inspiring her diverse cultural influences.

Rita Coolidge's story is one of resilience, creativity, and musical excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and inspiring generations of artists and music enthusiasts.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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