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Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Why Mesa is poised for more growth after wrapping up a $5 billion year.

• Upcoming Arizona Diamondbacks match

• A deep-dive into the life of CeCe Peniston

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”

– Joseph Campbell

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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!

What is the name of the largest university in Phoenix?

A) Grand Canyon University

B) Arizona State University

C) University of Phoenix

D) Northern Arizona University

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual Phoenix event that celebrates the cultural heritage of Native Americans is C) Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market.

News

💼Business

Scottsdale restaurant Etta acquired by Texas company, will close for renovations. (Link)

Swanky Arizona properties on the market feature luxury pools, outdoor amenities. (Link)

🏒Sports

Team USA's push for Olympic gold starts at WNBA All-Star Game. (Link)

Phoenix Suns duo Devin Booker, Kevin Durant to represent Team USA in 2024 Paris Olympics. (Link)

🏦Finance

Why Mesa is poised for more growth after wrapping up a $5 billion year. (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

⚾ Pittsburgh Pirates at Arizona Diamondbacks
Chase Field, Phoenix
Friday, Jul. 26th to Sunday, Jul. 28th | (More info)

⚾ Washington Nationals at Arizona Diamondbacks
Chase Field, Phoenix
Monday, Jul. 29th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎭 Joe Pera
The Van Buren, Phoenix
Friday, Jul. 26th | (More info)

🎵 DJ Craze and Blockhead
Walter Studios, Phoenix
Saturday, Jul. 27th | (More info)

Family

🍻 Bricks and Brews: Beer Tasting and LEGO Building
24 West Camelback Road Suite D & E, Phoenix
Saturday, Jul. 27th | (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 “A city in the clouds, with buildings suspended in the air over Phoenix” 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

Phoenix Street Railway Electrification (1893) - Modernization of the city's public transport.

In 1893, the Phoenix Street Railway Electrification marked a significant milestone in the modernization of the city's public transport system. Prior to this electrification, the streetcars in Phoenix were pulled by horses, limiting their speed and range. The introduction of electric streetcars revolutionized the way people moved around the city, providing a faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. This development played a crucial role in shaping the urban landscape of Phoenix, connecting neighborhoods and stimulating economic growth.

The electrification of the street railway system brought about a transformation in the daily lives of Phoenix residents. Commuting became more convenient, allowing workers to travel to and from their jobs with greater ease. The expansion of the streetcar network also facilitated the growth of suburban areas, as people could now live further from the city center and still have access to reliable transportation. This modernization of public transport contributed to the overall development and prosperity of Phoenix, laying the foundation for a more interconnected and accessible city.

The impact of the Phoenix Street Railway Electrification extended beyond transportation, influencing the social fabric of the city. It fostered a sense of community by enabling residents to explore different parts of Phoenix and interact with people from diverse backgrounds. The electrification project represented a forward-looking approach to urban planning, setting the stage for future innovations in public transit and infrastructure. Today, the legacy of the electrification of the street railway system continues to be felt, as Phoenix remains committed to enhancing its public transportation network to meet the evolving needs of its residents.

Famous People From Phoenix

CeCe Peniston - (1969-Present) Singer and former beauty queen.

CeCe Peniston, born Cecilia Veronica Peniston, is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her iconic career in the music industry. Her journey began in Dayton, Ohio, but it was in Phoenix, Arizona, where she spent most of her formative years and propelled to prominence. From her early days as Miss Black Arizona to her chart-topping hits, CeCe Peniston continues to inspire and captivate audiences with her love and light.

Early Life and Musical Influences (1969-1988)

Cecilia Veronica Peniston was born on September 6, 1969, in Dayton, Ohio. She spent the majority of her formative years in Phoenix, Arizona, where her fascination with music began to blossom. Influenced by artists such as Patti LaBelle, Minnie Riperton, Luther Vandross, and Shirley Murdock, Peniston's passion for music grew as she participated in class musical productions and talent shows.

Rise to Prominence (1989-1990)

In 1989, CeCe Peniston was crowned Miss Black Arizona, marking a significant milestone in her early career. This recognition set the stage for her journey into the music industry, leading to her signing with A&M Records and the release of her debut album. Her talent and dedication quickly propelled her to prominence, capturing the attention of audiences and industry professionals alike.

Debut Album and Chart-Topping Hits (1991-1992)

At the age of 22, CeCe Peniston released her debut album, Finally, in 1991. The album featured the iconic hit single of the same name, which became a global sensation and solidified Peniston's status as a rising star in the music industry. Her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence garnered widespread acclaim, earning her a Grammy nomination and establishing her as a force to be reckoned with.

Continued Success and Impactful Career (1993-Present)

Following the success of her debut album, CeCe Peniston continued to carve an impactful career, releasing exciting EPs, singles, and albums that showcased her versatility and artistry. Her dedication to creating music with love and light has resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing her legacy as a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and a symbol of inspiration in the music industry.

Connection to Phoenix

CeCe Peniston's connection to Phoenix, Arizona, played a pivotal role in shaping her early career and personal development. It was in Phoenix where she honed her musical talents, participated in beauty pageants, and began her journey toward becoming a celebrated artist. The city holds a special place in her heart as the backdrop for her formative years and the starting point of her remarkable career.

Key Achievements of CeCe Peniston:

• Grammy winning singer-songwriter with a chart-topping debut album and hit single, Finally.

• Crowned Miss Black Arizona in 1989, marking a significant milestone in her early career.

• Continued to inspire and captivate audiences with her love and light through her impactful career in the music industry.

• Remembered as a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and inspiration in the music industry.

CeCe Peniston's story is one of talent, dedication, and the power of music to inspire and uplift. Her impact on the music industry and her connection to Phoenix, Arizona, continue to resonate with fans and aspiring artists around the world.

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

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