‘Are the KD jerseys here yet?’ Valley businesses excited about possible economic boost from Kevin Durant
PHOENIX – Local bars, restaurants, and sports memorabilia shops have felt the residual effects of Kevin Durant’s arrival in the Valley. Ahead of his Suns debut, downtown is prepared for an increase in foot traffic and sales.
Staking a claim: Annual unclaimed property auction draws bargain hunters
PHOENIX - Coins, collectibles, jewelry - any unclaimed property left in an Arizona safe deposit box is turned over to the state, which auctions the goods off after holding them for a few years. This year's auction, held in January, brought in $329,948.50 for the state.
Baseball’s back! Cactus League expects full crowds, significant economic impact with 2023 spring training
SURPRISE – In 2018, the W.P. Carey School of Business reported that the Cactus League generated $644.2 million in economic impact for Arizona. But between the COVID-19 pandemic and MLB lockout, the economy has taken a hit. With the first normal spring training in four years beginning on Feb. 24, the Cactus League expects full crowds, and a massive turn for the better.
Downtown Phoenix businesses see range of Super Bowl crowds, from record-breaking to a snail’s pace
PHOENIX — During a busy week for the Phoenix metro area, business at downtown restaurants was a mixed bag. Some were slammed, and others were nearly empty. Official economic impact numbers have not yet been released, but officials said last week that visitors were out in force and that Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport set a single-day passenger record the day after the Super Bowl.
A gambler’s paradise? For some, the industry’s extreme growth leads to addiction and worse in the Valley
PHOENIX – With Arizona transforming into a gambler’s paradise during Super Bowl week, there is an opposite side to the giant industry that is causing clinicians and counselors to become worried.
‘It’s not just about salary’: Workers’ market gives employees opportunities, help against inflation headwinds
PHOENIX – Tight conditions in the labor market have given workers a footing to demand better wages, compensation and working conditions.
Federal grant could extend broadband to 127,000 Arizona homes, businesses
WASHINGTON - The Treasury released $99.4 million in broadband funding to Arizona Tuesday, money that officials said could bring broadband internet service to an estimated 127,807 households and businesses around the state.
High egg prices lead homeowners to start backyard hatcheries
PHOENIX – High egg prices in grocery stores due to the uptick in bird flu have led people to start purchasing chicks for their own backyard hatcheries.
Phoenix officials urged to address income discrimination against renters on public assistance
PHOENIX — Residents who have struggled with high rents in America’s fifth-largest city are calling on city officials to address discrimination against renters on public assistance.
Diamondbacks’ relationship with Bally Sports Arizona in limbo after parent company misses payment
PHOENIX – Diamond Sports Group, the ownership group of Bally Sports Networks, failed to make a $140 million interest payment Wednesday and is over $8 billion in debt. With TV rights in question, MLB is prepared to take back ownership of 14 teams rights, including the Diamondbacks.
Arizona Diamondbacks adding new wrinkle to jerseys with Avnet patch
PHOENIX – The Arizona Diamondbacks unveiled its new jersey advertisement recently, with Avnet becoming the franchise’s new partner. The ad is a black square with the Avnet logo and text that matches some of the team’s colors. The reaction has been mixed.
Valley’s latest sportsbook expected to hit TPC Scottsdale next fall
SCOTTSDALE – The DraftKings Sportsbook, located across the street from TPC Scottsdale, is expected to be completed this fall, making it the first on-site sportsbook at a PGA Tour event.
