🌱 Sky Harbor Passenger Levels + Sunset Concert Series Canceled

Hello, everybody! It's me, Miranda Fraraccio, your host of the Phoenix Patch newsletter. Here's all the community news you need to know right now.

But first, today's weather:

Sunny and very warm. High: 111 Low: 83.

Here are the top three stories in Phoenix today:

1. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has experienced a remarkable resurgence, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger levels for five consecutive months. In May alone, the airport welcomed or bid farewell to a staggering 4,199,133 passengers, a 9.5 percent increase compared to May 2022 and a 6.3 percent rise from May 2019. This sustained recovery demonstrates a significant comeback for both the commercial aviation and tourism sectors after the disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. (ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix)
2. The scorching heat wave in Phoenix has led to the cancellation of the weekly Sunset Concert Series at the Phoenix Events Complex by event promoters Forty8 Live! The decision came after the National Weather Service issued extreme heat warnings, with temperatures reaching a record-breaking 116 degrees, just one degree shy of the highest temperature recorded in 1907. Concerns for the well-being of attendees, vendors, and performers prompted the cancellation, and ticketholders will have the option of a full refund or exchanging their tickets for future events organized by Forty8 Live! (The Arizona Republic)
3. A woman in west Phoenix is suspected of driving under the influence and running over three men, resulting in one fatality. The incident occurred near 35th Avenue and Indian School Road at around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday night, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Phoenix police. While the driver has not been identified, she has been arrested and faces DUI-related charges. (Arizona's Family)

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Today in Phoenix:

Friday, July 7

• “Good Grief” Exhibition At FOUND:RE Contemporary (6:00 PM)
• Frequency - Unguided Meditation At Sutra Studios (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Green grime on a deli slicer and organic matter on carrots are among the violations discovered at certain Phoenix-area restaurants recently. At the link, read about what the Maricopa County’s Environmental Services Department found during their recent inspections. (Arizona's Family)
• Looking for some fun this weekend? Here are four food and drinks-filled events happening around metro Phoenix this weekend that are worth checking out! (Phoenix New Times)
• The Arizona Humane Society offered thanks to the 50 volunteers who kept its dogs and cats company during the Paw-sitive Vibes for 4th of July event! Click the link to view photos. (Arizona Humane Society via Facebook)

You're all caught up for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow with your next update!

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she earned degrees in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or practicing film photography.