Phoenix Newsletter (May 20th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Phoenix.

Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • That $1 bill or penny in your pocket could be worth thousands. Here's how to cash in.

  • Upcoming Urbano concert

  • A deep-dive into the life of Tanya Tucker

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new."

— Albert Einstein

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 garden is known for its extensive collection of desert plants?

A) Japanese Friendship Garden

B) Ro Ho En

C) Desert Botanical Garden

D) Encanto Park Rose Garden

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual Phoenix event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the Southwest is D) Southwest Folk Art Festival.

News

💼 Business

That $1 bill or penny in your pocket could be worth thousands. Here's how to cash in. (Link)

They bought their AZ retirement home. Then they heard the neighbors. (Link)

Scottsdale restaurant thrives after rocky start in a pandemic. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Phoenix Suns' future NBA Draft pick situation is dire, but not as dire as insider claims. (Link)

Saguaro's Cam Caminiti video on winning 4A baseball title. (Link)

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics picks, predictions: Who wins Game 5 of NBA Playoffs? (Link)

🏦 Finance

Historic 7-acre Camelback Mountain property listed for $15.65M. (Link)

Several companies line up to bid on massive state land acreage around TSMC campus. (Link)

Arizona Biltmore sold for $705M — the Valley's largest hospitality deal this 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

🏀 Washington Mystics at Phoenix Mercury
Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
Thursday, May 23rd | (More info)

Miami Marlins at Arizona Diamondbacks
Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
Friday, May 24th | (More info)

🏀 Dallas Wings at Phoenix Mercury
Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
Saturday, May 25th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Gunna and Flo Milli
Arizona Financial Theatre, Phoenix, AZ, US
Tuesday, May 21st | (More info)

🎵 Urbano
Valley Bar, Phoenix, AZ, US
Thursday, May 23rd | (More info)

🎸 Cheekface
The Rebel Lounge, Phoenix, AZ, US
Saturday, May 25th | (More info)

Family

🍫 Team-Build a Box of Chocolates - Team Building Activity by Classpop!™
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Tuesday, May 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 “Phoenix with a blend of ancient and futuristic architecture” 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 Chamber of Commerce Established (1888) - Formation of the Chamber to bolster local economy.

The Phoenix Chamber of Commerce was formally established on November 13, 1888, with the mission of bolstering the local economy and promoting the interests of the business community in the Valley of the Sun. At the time of its formation, Arizona was not yet a state, but leading business owners in the region recognized the need for a unified organization to advocate for economic growth and development. The Chamber spearheaded efforts to attract businesses and investments to the area, laying the foundation for the economic prosperity of Greater Phoenix.

Over the past 120 years, the Chamber has been a strong pillar of the Greater Phoenix region, playing a vital role in initiatives that brought railroad service into the city and facilitated the growth of industry and commerce. The organization has undergone a couple of name changes, previously known as the Phoenix Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce before adopting its present name in 1998. Today, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce continues to be a leading advocate for the local business community, supporting economic development and fostering a thriving environment for businesses in the region.

The establishment of the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce in 1888 marked a significant milestone in the economic history of the region, as it laid the groundwork for the growth and prosperity of Greater Phoenix. The Chamber's dedication to promoting the vital interests of the business community has contributed to the region's economic success and continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of Greater Phoenix.

Famous People From Phoenix

Tanya Tucker - (1958-Present)

Country music artist:

Tanya Tucker, born Tanya Denise Tucker on October 10, 1958, in Seminole, Texas, is a renowned American country music singer and songwriter. She is best known for her distinctive, husky voice and her resilience as a high-spirited performer. Throughout her career, Tucker has achieved numerous milestones and continues to be an influential figure in the country music industry.

Early Life and Family

Tanya Tucker was the youngest child of Beau and Juanita Tucker, born in Seminole, Texas. She grew up in a family that also included older siblings Don and LaCosta. Her early life was marked by the influence of her parents and the support of her siblings, laying the foundation for her future success in the music industry.

Rise to Stardom (1972-1980)

At the age of 13, Tanya Tucker had her first hit with Delta Dawn in 1972. This marked the beginning of her journey as a country music sensation. Despite her young age, Tucker's talent and stage presence captivated audiences, and she quickly became a household name in the music industry. Throughout the 1970s, she continued to release chart-topping hits and solidify her status as a rising star.

Musical Evolution and Continued Success (1980s-1990s)

As Tucker matured, her music evolved, and she continued to release albums that showcased her growth as an artist. Her ability to connect with audiences through her soulful voice and emotionally charged performances set her apart in the country music scene. Hits like ""Strong Enough to Bend"" and ""Two Sparrows in a Hurricane"" further solidified her position as a country music icon.

Personal Life and Challenges

Tanya Tucker's personal life has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. She has been open about her romantic history and the ups and downs of her personal relationships. Despite facing adversity, Tucker's resilience and determination have been evident in her ability to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing her passion for music.

Grammy Awards and Career Resurgence (2019-Present)

In 2019, Tanya Tucker made a triumphant return with the release of While I'm Livin', her first collection of original material in over a decade. This album marked a career resurgence for Tucker and earned her two Grammy Awards for Bring My Flowers Now and While I'm Livin in 2020. The recognition reaffirmed her enduring impact on the country music genre.

Legacy and Influence

Tanya Tucker's legacy extends beyond her musical achievements. She has been a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and has left an indelible mark on the country music industry. Her ability to connect with audiences through her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics has solidified her status as a beloved figure in the world of music.

Key Achievements of Tanya Tucker:

  • Achieved her first hit, Delta Dawn, at the age of 13, marking the beginning of her successful career.

  • Earned two Grammy Awards in 2020 for Bring My Flowers Now and While I'm Livin', showcasing her enduring talent and relevance in the music industry.

  • Overcame personal challenges and continued to evolve as an artist, earning respect and admiration from fans and peers alike.

  • Left a lasting legacy as a resilient and influential figure in country music, inspiring future generations of artists.

Tanya Tucker's story is one of perseverance, musical excellence, and a lasting impact on the country music landscape. Her journey from a young sensation to a Grammy-winning artist is a testament to her enduring talent and unwavering passion for music.

Connect With Me

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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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