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The Revival of Amtrak’s Sunset Limited Train Line:
Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train line, which currently operates between Los Angeles and New Orleans, plays a vital role in this project. By routing the Sunset Limited through Phoenix, the nation’s largest city without intercity passenger train service, Arizona aims to bridge the gap in its transportation infrastructure. Currently, the train has stops in various states, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana. However, it falls short of reaching Phoenix, with Maricopa being the nearest stop, approximately 40 miles to the south. The reintroduction of Amtrak service to Phoenix would mark the revival of a rail connection that was discontinued in 1996.

Benefits for Arizona:
The Phoenix-Tucson passenger rail project holds immense promise for Arizona, both economically and environmentally. Representative Stanton, a strong advocate for this initiative, highlighted the advantages during a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing. Connecting the state’s two largest cities by passenger rail would enhance accessibility, productivity, and economic opportunities for the communities along the route. By easing congestion and reducing air pollution caused by traffic on Interstate 10, this rail service would be a sustainable alternative for commuters and travelers.

Economic Opportunities and Regional Development:
As numerous communities across the country have experienced, the introduction of passenger rail brings a wave of new economic opportunities. Arizona, thus far, has been unable to tap into these benefits. However, with the allocation of federal funds and the state’s contribution of $3.5 million, the planning phase for the Phoenix-Tucson rail project is underway. This phase includes developing a comprehensive cost estimate, addressing route logistics, and evaluating the necessary infrastructure enhancements. By investing in this much-needed transportation link, Arizona can unlock the potential for increased tourism, job growth, and business development in the region.

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The allocation of federal funds for reestablishing passenger rail service between Phoenix and Tucson marks a significant milestone in Arizona’s pursuit of improved transportation connectivity. With strong local and state support, the Phoenix-Tucson rail project has the potential to revolutionize mobility within the state. By linking the two largest cities, this initiative will foster economic growth, alleviate traffic congestion, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. As the planning phase progresses, Arizona stands poised to embrace the economic opportunities and enhanced quality of life that passenger rail service can bring.

Story in Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/waynerash/2021/07/28/amtrak-announces-plan-to-begin-passenger-service-between-tucson-phoenix-and-la/?sh=1abacad61793

https://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/

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When you step into a ballpark, the sights and sounds of the game surround you. The aroma of hot dogs and the refreshing taste of a cold beer are often part of the experience. Perhaps you’ll even have the chance to catch a fly ball. But beyond the thrill of the game, there’s something special about the Arizona Diamondbacks. As a team deeply invested in their community, the Diamondbacks have made a significant impact through their philanthropic efforts. Let’s explore how this Major League Baseball team has gone above and beyond to support their community through charitable initiatives.

The Arizona Diamondback Foundation:
Working at Chase Ballpark has given me the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible work of the Arizona Diamondbacks in the community. Since its establishment in 1997, the Arizona Diamondback Foundation has been a driving force behind numerous charitable endeavors. This nonprofit organization has consistently contributed $50 million annually to various charities, focusing on areas such as homelessness, indigent healthcare, and children’s programs.

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Supporting Education and Youth Programs:
One of the standout initiatives of the Diamondbacks is their dedication to education and youth development. They have refurbished 41 baseball fields across the state, providing safe and enjoyable spaces for young athletes. Additionally, the Diamondbacks have partnered with organizations like the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Maricopa County, recognizing their outstanding work in these areas.

Recognizing Academic Excellence:
The Arizona Diamondbacks also recognize the importance of education and academic excellence. Through their commitment to supporting schools, they established an excellent award program. By the end of 2012, they had awarded $250,000 to 51 schools across the state, highlighting and celebrating the achievements of students and educators alike.

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Diana Gregory Outreach Services: Nourishing Veterans and Seniors Through Food Access

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The 50/50 Raffle:
During every Diamondbacks game, fans have the opportunity to participate in a 50/50 raffle. Half of the proceeds from this raffle go to a designated charity, while the other half goes to the lucky ticket holder. This unique initiative not only raises funds for worthy causes but also engages fans in the spirit of giving back.

A Community-Driven Team:
When you enter Chase Ballpark in Arizona to witness a Diamondbacks game, it’s clear that they are more than just a baseball team. They are a team committed to making a positive impact on the community they call home. By supporting various charitable initiatives, the Diamondbacks have demonstrated their dedication to improving the lives of those in need.

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The Arizona Diamondbacks have proven themselves to be champions not only on the baseball field but also in their unwavering commitment to the community. Through the Arizona Diamondback Foundation, their investment in education, youth programs, and charitable initiatives has made a significant difference in the lives of many. So, next time you head to a Diamondbacks game, remember that you’re not just supporting a baseball team, but an organization that truly cares about its community. Join them in their mission to make a positive impact and witness the power of sports in transforming lives.

If you’re interested in learning about the ways in which Dback engages with the community, please visit this link for more information. https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/community

HONOLULU /PRNewswire/ — The timeless traditions of storytelling and collaboration in Hawaii have a new home with the launch of Hawaii Creators (HawaiiCreators.com), an open community of artists and performers spanning the Hawaiian Islands.

Originally founded in 2016 as Hawaii Social Media Services, the name Hawaii Creators reflects the greater diversity and inclusiveness of today’s traditional and digital platforms for expression and interaction.

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“Even before the web and social media, technology was a transformative force in connecting people globally,” says co-founder Peter Kay, a serial entrepreneur and life-long media maker. “Hawaii, despite its isolation, embraced its potential and power to entertain and educate people around the world, and today that potential is limitless—everyone deserves to be seen and heard.”

“Hawaii Creators is not a clique or a club, and we even shy away from the word ‘influencer,'” says co-founder Ryan Ozawa, a native Hawaiian journalist with more than 30 years’ experience in online publishing. “We welcome people who create because it’s a passion or calling as much as those who see it as a career, and we measure success by the number of stories told and lives touched, not the number of likes or brand deals.”

While online community building is a distinct strength of Hawaii Creators members, the group is also committed to real, in-person, face-to-face interaction and events.

“Coming out of the pandemic, I think people crave the warmth and energy you can only get when gathered in the same space,” says co-founder, musician, and event organizer Emi Hart. “Hawaii Creators will bring people together to forge deeper connections, learn together, and truly appreciate our island home.”

The heart of Hawaii Creators are the words, images, sounds, and flavors that its members share with the world. As a group, Hawaii Creators will focus on helping people who are new to content creation and digital media, providing training and one-on-one mentorship, connecting members with each other for collaborative projects, and organizing meetups, presentations, and workshops.

“Everybody has a story, and we’re going to help people tell theirs,” Kay says. “Next month we’re launching a series of live-streamed Hawaii Creators conversations—interviews with members where we can learn who they are, why they do what they do, how they’ve grown, and where they’re headed.”

“If someone wants to make a living as a creator, we’ll share all the knowledge and tools we can to help them succeed,” adds Hart, who was the first community manager for Yelp Hawaii and organized some of Hawaii’s most successful social media campaigns. “But Hawaii Creators celebrates everyone, and many of our members freely share their mana’o, their aloha, simply because it makes people happy.”

About Hawaii Creators

Hawaii Creators is an open, inclusive, supportive, and collaborative community of storytellers, artists and performers in, from, and inspired by the Aloha State. The group comprises creators in every medium, from authors, bloggers, and podcasters to YouTubers, Twitch streamers, lifecasters and broadcasters. Founded in 2016 as HawaiiSocial.com (dba Hawaii Social Media Services), Hawaii Creators has seen dozens of platforms come and go, but the irresistible spirit of the islands has consistently sustained and grown the reach and influence of Hawaii’s people. For more information, visit HawaiiCreators.com.

SOURCE Hawaii Creators