Life Along The Streetcar

In this special episode of Life Along The Streetcar, we sit down with Dr. Becky Senf, Chief Curator at the Center for Creative Photography (CCP), to uncover the fascinating story behind one of Tucson's most significant cultural institutions. Dr. Senf shares how the vision of then-UArizona President John Schaefer and legendary photographer Ansel Adams gave rise to the CCP in 1975. We explore the Center's unique role as both an archive and research hub, and how its vast collections continue to influence global photography, art, and academia. From preserving iconic prints to telling the stories behind the lens, this episode highlights the powerful legacy rooted right here in Tucson.

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with Stephen Paul, co-founder of Hamilton Distillers and the creative force behind Whiskey Del Bac, Tucson's award-winning, mesquite-smoked single malt whiskey. Discover how a backyard BBQ, a spark of inspiration from his wife, and a deep love for the Sonoran Desert led Stephen from mesquite furniture to crafting one of the most unique whiskeys in the U.S. We explore the journey from illegal home distilling to full-fledged distillery, and how Whiskey Del Bac honors the flavors, spirit, and culture of Southern Arizona. You'll also hear about their innovative distilling process, how community and collaboration fuel their success, and the special events that make Hamilton Distillers a true hub of Tucson creativity. Whether you're a whiskey lover, a Tucson local, or just a fan of unexpected origin stories, this episode is for you.

Most of us shy away from bugs, snakes, and all things creepy crawly. But for Tucson artist and zookeeper Courtney Christie, these misunderstood creatures are a source of wonder, inspiration, and beauty. In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with Courtney to explore her unique journey. From studying criminal justice to caring for reptiles at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, she has transformed her love of wildlife into powerful and educational artwork. Through vivid paintings, intricate stickers, and even giant bug murals, Courtney invites us to look closer and rethink what we fear. Her story is a celebration of the Sonoran Desert, the wild things that call it home, and the magic that happens when science and creativity meet. Come for the art, stay for the stories, and maybe leave with a newfound appreciation for centipedes.

In honor of Memorial Day, we revisit a powerful conversation with David Carter, the visionary designer behind the USS Arizona Mall Memorial on the University of Arizona campus. This striking tribute—a life-size outline of the battleship's deck and 1,177 medallions representing each life lost—serves as both a physical and emotional connection to one of the most pivotal moments in American history. Originally aired in 2018, this episode includes never-before-shared audio that explores the memorial's origins, its deeply personal research into the sailors and Marines who perished, and the effort to create a lasting educational experience for future generations. From the symbolism of the ship's outline to the stories of brothers, sons, and friends lost together, this is a reflection on sacrifice, remembrance, and the power of place.

What happens when you mix downtown energy, 94 performers, and a relentless love of laughter? You get the Improvathon—a 28-hour comedy marathon hosted by the Tucson Improv Movement (TIM)!

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with Anthony Aldinger—better known around Tucson as Mr. Nature. From recycled instruments at Bookmans to soulful Sunday mornings on Little Leaf Radio, Mr. Nature has spent over a decade nurturing the minds and hearts of Tucson's youth through music, storytelling, and joy. Discover how a passion for nature, a pocket full of lizards, and a knack for rhythm blossomed into a city-wide movement of educational entertainment. Whether he's performing at the zoo, singing in schools, or leading community events like Play Palooza and Second Saturdays, Mr. Nature's Music Garden is planting seeds of connection and kindness all across the Old Pueblo.

In this special episode of Life Along the Streetcar, hosts Tom Heath and Amanda Mourelatos sit down with Tyler Meier, Executive Director of the University of Arizona Poetry Center, to explore how poetry breathes life into the heart of Tucson. Tyler shares his personal journey — from being inspired by a high school teacher, to writing poetry while working construction, to leading one of the largest and most vibrant poetry centers in the country. Through his story, we discover how poetry is not just words on a page, but a living energy that can transform lives and communities. We dive into the rich history of the UA Poetry Center, founded in 1960 through community passion, and how it grew into a nationally renowned literary haven right here in Tucson. Tyler paints a vivid picture of the Center's stunning, welcoming space — where books line open shelves, visiting poets find a home away from home, and poetry readings create "duets with the train" passing by. But the Center's reach goes beyond its walls. Tyler shares how programs like the Haiku Hike bring poetry into the streets of downtown Tucson, fostering a sense of belonging and connection for all. This episode captures the soul of what makes Tucson's literary scene so special: a deep commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and the power of words to unite and inspire. ✨ Whether you're a longtime poetry lover or simply curious about the magic happening right off the streetcar line, this episode invites you to see Tucson — and perhaps yourself — a little differently.

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with Arthur Vint, drummer, visionary, and the creative force behind the Century Room, Tucson's very own slice of New York's jazz scene. Nestled inside Hotel Congress with its own discreet entrance off Congress & 5th, the Century Room blends NYC basement-club charm with a warm Sonoran welcome. Arthur shares how his years performing and working at the iconic Village Vanguard inspired the design, sound, and soul of this Downtown gem.

This week on Life Along the Streetcar, we're diving into one of Tucson's most vibrant celebrations—The Agave Heritage Festival!

This week on Life Along the Streetcar, we reconnect with one of Downtown Tucson's true originals—Margo Susco. As the visionary behind Hydra Leather & More, Margo spent over two decades bringing bold fashion, fierce energy, and unwavering community spirit to the corner of 6th and Congress. Now, she's bringing that same passion back to downtown as part of the 33rd Arizona International Film Festival. In this episode, Margo reflects on the early days of Hydra, her lasting impact on Tucson's small business scene, and why this city continues to pull her back in. We also dive into the film festival's incredible lineup—featuring 107 films from 21 countries—and how it's growing into a true community experience. Tune in for stories of creativity, connection, and downtown love—past, present, and future.

This week on Life Along the Streetcar, we're honoring Women's History Month with a powerful look at two trailblazing women who helped shape Tucson's culinary and cultural identity—Monica Flin, founder of El Charro Café, and her niece, Carlota Flores, who elevated the brand into a nationally recognized empire. We revisit a 2021 conversation with Ray Flores of Flores Concepts, as he shares deeply personal stories of his family's legacy—from the early days of Monica's grit and resilience, to Carlota's visionary leadership and expansion. It's a story of entrepreneurship, struggle, reinvention, and an unwavering love for Tucson. Whether you've dined at Charro Steak, Barrio Charro, The Monica, or the iconic El Charro Café, you've tasted a piece of this remarkable family's journey.

In this second installment of our Women's History Month series, we continue celebrating Cele Peterson, a woman whose impact on Tucson stretched far beyond fashion. While she made a name for herself as a visionary designer and retailer, Cele was also a savvy entrepreneur, a cultural influencer, and a fierce advocate for her community. What made Cele's business empire last for over 80 years? How did she shape downtown Tucson's evolution, even as businesses left? What role did she play in the careers of music legends like Linda Ronstadt? We're diving into Cele Peterson's entrepreneurial legacy with Tucson journalist and historian Dan Buckley, who spent years documenting her life and stories. In this episode, you'll hear:

This week on Life Along the Streetcar, we kick off Women's History Month by honoring a true Tucson icon—Cele Peterson. More than a fashion trailblazer, Cele was a fierce advocate for Tucson's cultural and civic development. From founding businesses to shaping institutions like the Children's Museum Tucson, her legacy runs deep in the heart of our city. In this episode, we sit down with Dan Buckley, a celebrated Tucson storyteller, who had the privilege of interviewing Cele before her passing in 2010. Through personal memories, behind-the-scenes stories, and firsthand accounts, we uncover the unstoppable spirit of a woman who turned bold ideas into reality. Cele Peterson wasn't just a leader—she was a force of nature. Whether it was advocating for local businesses, shaping public policy, or making the mayor's office take action, she wove together the fabric of Tucson's past, present, and future. Join us as we celebrate Cele Peterson's enduring impact and recognize the women who have built and continue to shape Tucson.

Tucson's festival season is here, and we're diving into four of the biggest cultural celebrations happening in the urban core! In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we bring back our annual tradition, inFESTed, to highlight the can't-miss events shaping our city this spring.

What happens when a dream collides with an unexpected roadblock? For photographer Nicci Radhe, failing trigonometry meant saying goodbye to her aspirations of becoming an astronomer. But when one door closed, another opened—through the lens of a camera. In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we explore Nicci's incredible journey from studying the cosmos to capturing the stars of Tucson's vibrant art and music scene. From photographing renowned muralist Jessica Gonzalez to working with local musicians and artists, Nicci has carved out a unique space in Tucson's creative community. Join us as we dive into her story of resilience, artistic passion, and the unexpected turns that led her to become one of Tucson's most sought-after photographers. Listen now and be inspired to embrace the unexpected!

At just 14 years old, Val Garcia is already leaving his mark on Tucson's art scene—first as a visual artist with works in the Tucson Gallery, and now as an up-and-coming musician carving out his own sound. The son of renowned muralist Ignacio Garcia (and the real-life inspiration behind the famous Running of the Piñatas mural), Val has creativity in his blood. In this episode, we dive into his artistic evolution, exploring how he went from paintbrushes to beats, what fuels his love for 90s-inspired music, and why he's embracing the stage name Tortilla Killa. He's just getting started, but his passion is undeniable. Could this be the beginning of Tucson's next big creative story?

Did you know that criminals can steal your home without ever stepping foot inside? Deed fraud—also known as title theft—is a growing crime where fraudsters forge documents to take control of properties, leaving homeowners and even renters at risk. In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with Lisa Nutt, a key leader at the Tucson Association of Realtors, who has been fighting to educate, prevent, and stop deed fraud in Southern Arizona. Lisa shares her expertise on:

Tucson's rodeo tradition just got a monumental tribute!

In this final installment of our two-part series, Life Along the Streetcar revisits the pivotal moments that transformed downtown Tucson from 2005 to 2009. Join us as former City Council members Nina Trasoff and C.T. Revere, along with Glenn Lyons, the former CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership, reflect on the milestone projects and decisions that continue to shape the Old Pueblo.

Heritage in Motion: The Visionaries Behind Tucson's Downtown Revival In this special episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we take you on a journey through the transformative years of downtown Tucson, exploring how a bold vision and the modern streetcar reshaped the heart of the Old Pueblo. Join us as former City Council members Nina Trasoff and C.T. Revere, along with Glenn Lyons, former CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership, reflect on their experiences leading this ambitious revitalization from 2005 to 2009. Discover the challenges they faced during the 2008 economic downturn, the innovative solutions they employed, and the steadfast commitment to preserving Tucson's rich heritage while paving the way for a vibrant future. From navigating regulatory hurdles to fostering community support for the streetcar, this episode celebrates the visionaries who dared to dream big and deliver lasting change.

In this heartwarming episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with two incredible Tucson talents, Khris Dodge and Brittany Battle, as they take us on a journey through mentorship, collaboration, and the transformative power of music. Discover how Brittany's artistic voice was unlocked with Khris's guidance, leading to her breathtaking debut as a jazz performer. From overcoming fears to embracing the improvisational freedom of jazz, this story is a testament to the magic of Tucson's vibrant arts community. We also spotlight their upcoming Valentine's Day jazz cabaret at the Arizona Theatre Company's intimate lounge. Perfect for date night or anyone ready to fall in love with live music, this performance promises to be an unforgettable evening of classic jazz and heartfelt expression. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at their creative partnership, a preview of the Tucson Jazz Festival, and an inspiring message about chasing your passions. ✨ Listen now and let the music move you!

As we step into 2025, we take a moment to honor the visionaries who shaped Tucson's urban core and left lasting legacies. In this special retrospective episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we revisit the stories of individuals whose passion, creativity, and commitment have transformed Tucson into the vibrant community we love today.

Welcome to the final episode of 2024! In 2024 Highlights from the Urban Core: A Year of Resilience and Revival, we take a reflective journey through Tucson's vibrant year. From groundbreaking business initiatives to awe-inspiring art projects, this episode showcases the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that shaped the urban core. Join us as we revisit compelling conversations with leaders like Jessica Barfield from Local First Arizona and discover how initiatives like the Navigator Grant are driving local economic growth. Explore stories of innovative spaces like High Wire's newest venue, The Grand, and hear about the creative repurposing of Tucson's historical structures. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the people, businesses, and organizations that make downtown Tucson a thriving hub of art, culture, and enterprise. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the journey, this is a perfect opportunity to reflect on and celebrate our community's achievements over the past year. ✨ Listen, share, and comment below to let us know your favorite moments from 2024!

A Look Back at 2024 - Life Along the Streetcar by Tom Heath

This week on Life Along the Streetcar, we're flipping the script! Join us as we sit down with our incredible intern, Amanda Mourelatos, whose journey through journalism and podcasting exemplifies the beauty of exploration and growth in media. From editing and hosting to now stepping into the guest spotlight, Amanda has done it all—and she's just getting started.

What do mountain peaks, underwater escapades, and perfectly pressed shirts have in common? For Kieran McGann, they're all part of the thrilling world of Extreme Ironing! Known as Ironing Man, AKA Tony Starch, Kieran has turned a mundane household chore into a daring and creative adventure. In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, guest host Amanda Mourelatos steps up to the mic for an inspiring and hilarious conversation with Kieran. Discover how a quirky TV segment inspired him to take his ironing board to the most extreme and unconventional locations, from rocky cliffs to breathtaking trails. Learn about the gear, the guts, and the creativity it takes to combine ironing with adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you're an adventure junkie, a fan of unique sports, or just love a good laugh, this episode will leave you pressing for more!

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with Crystal Moore, the newly appointed President and CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership. With over two decades of experience in real estate and urban development, Crystal shares her unique insights into the evolution of downtown Tucson—from its challenges to its triumphs. Discover how the community has rallied to address the needs of downtown, the role of vibrant holiday festivities like Desert Nights Downtown Lights, and Crystal's exciting vision for a more pedestrian-friendly, thriving urban core. From clean streets to community engagement, this episode highlights the incredible efforts shaping Tucson's future.

In this special episode of Life Along The Streetcar, host Tom Heath steps out from behind the mic to chat with our very own producer, James Portis, about the launch of Tucson's latest creative hub: Show Source Studios! This innovative space in Downtown Tucson is dedicated to empowering local voices and bringing their stories to life.

Get ready to experience Tucson's art scene like never before! In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with Tony Ray Baker, local real estate agent and co-owner of the Tucson Gallery, to explore the inspiring journey behind the gallery and its mission to make art accessible to all. Tony Ray shares the story of why affordable art matters to him and how his passion for supporting local artists led to the creation of the Tucson Gallery, a space that highlights unique works from talented Tucsonans. Join us as we chat about the upcoming Affordable Art Bustin' Out to the Open Sale on November 16th, where the Tucson Gallery will be showcasing over 35 local artists and bringing their works out onto the patio for a one-day-only event filled with creativity, community, and fun! From original pieces to affordable prints, stickers, and more, this is your chance to find the perfect piece of Tucson to take home or gift for the holidays. Meet the artists, discover new favorites, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with food, hands-on art activities, and unique local vendors. Don't miss out on this celebration of Tucson's artistic spirit!

Get ready for a spooky, side-splitting special episode! This week on Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with the multi-talented Sara Mirasola, also known as Sara Sometimes, for an inside look at her upcoming Halloween comedy variety show, And Sometimes WHY?! Join us as we dive into the creative world of Sara Sometimes—a comedian, actress, singer-songwriter, and Tucson's very own “Pawlitical Cat Lady.” Discover what inspired her Halloween-themed show, get a sneak peek into the hilarious characters she'll bring to the stage, and learn why this performance is the perfect way to spend your Halloween night in Tucson. If you're a fan of comedy, costumes, or simply love Halloween, this episode (and Sara's show) is one you won't want to miss.

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we welcome back Jude Cook, renowned Tucson neon artist and preservationist, to dive into the revitalization of the Sunshine Mile, one of Tucson's most iconic mid-century modern districts. Jude shares his insights on the restoration efforts, focusing on how neon signage is playing a major role in bringing the Sunshine Mile back to life. Learn how this historic corridor, once threatened by urban development, is being transformed into a vibrant community space where local businesses, like Rocco's Chicago Pizza, are thriving. Listen now to discover: - The history and significance of the Sunshine Mile - The vital role of neon sign restoration in the district's revitalization - Insights from Jude Cook on Tucson's mid-century modern preservation efforts We explore the unique challenges and triumphs of preserving Tucson's mid-century charm while infusing it with new energy through collaborative development efforts. With a particular emphasis on neon restoration, Jude details how he and other developers are ensuring that the Sunshine Mile retains its historic glow while evolving for modern use. Tune in for a journey through Tucson's history, neon artistry, and the future of one of the city's most beloved areas.

In this special episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with Erin Durband, widow of the late Donovan Durband, to honor his life and legacy. Known for his visionary contributions to Tucson's urban core, Donovan played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Tucson, transforming it into the vibrant hub we know today. Erin shares personal stories about Donovan's passion for the city, his work behind the scenes, and the ongoing efforts to memorialize him—such as the movement to rename the Sixth Avenue underpass in his honor. Together, we explore how Donovan's work continues to influence the community through the Donovan Dean Durband Supports Tucson Foundation, ensuring that his legacy of growth and connection lives on. Listen now to discover the legacy of a Tucson trailblazer, as told by the person who knew him best—his wife, Erin Durband. Follow us on SoundCloud for more episodes celebrating Tucson's culture, stories, and urban development!

In this illuminating episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath takes us on a journey into the heart of Tucson's visual and cultural history with Jude Cook, the founder of Ignite Sign Art Museum. Jude has dedicated decades to preserving vintage neon signs that once lit up Tucson's streets, salvaging these artistic relics and restoring them to their former glory. From his personal collection that began in the 1970s to the museum he opened in 2018, Jude's mission is to preserve the glowing remnants of Tucson's commercial past, ensuring these historic signs remain a beacon of the city's vibrant story. We'll hear about some of Jude's most memorable restorations, like the iconic signs from long-gone Tucson establishments, and learn how he approaches each project with the care of an archeologist, uncovering the hidden history beneath layers of paint and time. Discover the challenges and joys of neon sign restoration, the fascinating history behind this timeless craft, and why these glowing symbols are more than just advertisements—they're landmarks of Tucson's unique identity. Tune in to learn why preserving these neon lights is crucial to Tucson's cultural legacy, and find out more about the upcoming event at Ignite Sign Art Museum on October 12th! Listen now to dive into Tucson's neon-filled history, and don't forget to follow Life Along the Streetcar for more stories that celebrate the people, places, and culture of Tucson. ⭐ Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to follow us on Facebook and check out past episodes on SoundCloud.

In this episode of Life Along The Streetcar, we dive into the powerful connection between kindness and well-being, exploring the research-backed benefits of compassion. From its humble beginnings in Tucson, Ben's Bells has grown into a nationally recognized symbol of intentional kindness, spreading hope and positivity across communities. We'll revisit an inspiring interview with Helen Gomez, who has led Ben's Bells since 2019 and recently announced her departure as Executive Director. Discover how the organization's roots are deeply intertwined with a personal story of healing, when founder Jeanette Mare transformed her grief into a movement that encourages people to practice kindness every day. Learn how the science of kindness is shaping schools, businesses, and communities, and hear real stories of how this simple idea has impacted lives. From Tucson to Phoenix and even Connecticut, Ben's Bells continues to remind us that small, intentional acts can create big change. Tune in to hear the full story, and discover how you can help spread kindness in your own community! Want more inspiring stories from Tucson?

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we sit down with Gabriel Moreno, the passionate owner of Jaime's Pizza Kitchen. From a family legacy that began on Tucson's iconic Fourth Avenue to crafting a unique, cold-fermented dough that keeps customers coming back, Gabriel shares his journey of blending tradition with innovation. Listen as he talks about how his love for pizza was born, his years of perfecting the art of pizza-making, and how Jaime's Pizza Kitchen is more than just a restaurant—it's a family affair. Get inspired by Gabriel's dedication to quality and the values that drive his success.

In this episode of Life Along The Streetcar, we dive into the fascinating artistic journey of Rob Waters, a talented Tucson-based artist whose work beautifully captures the essence of our beloved city. From his early days as a freelance graphic designer in New York to his current passion for fine arts, Rob shares the story of how his creative path led him to Tucson. Discover how Rob's experiences across different cities and mediums have shaped his unique artistic style, and hear his thoughts on the vibrant community that continues to inspire him. Rob's story is a testament to the power of embracing change and pursuing one's passion, no matter where it leads. Tune in to learn more about his transition from design to fine art, the inspiration behind his captivating pieces, and his contributions to Tucson's thriving art scene. Don't forget to like, share, and follow if you enjoyed this episode! Stay connected with us for more stories celebrating the culture, people, and unique charm of Tucson. For exclusive content and updates, follow us on Facebook at Life Along The Streetcar and subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.

In this episode of Life Along The Streetcar, we dive into the latest creative ventures from Tucson's beloved musical duo, Ryanhood. Ryan David Green and Cameron Hood have each embarked on exciting solo projects, showcasing their unique artistic voices while staying true to their roots. Join us as we explore Ryan's solo album, Off and Running, a collection of deeply personal and beautifully crafted songs that highlight his acoustic prowess and lyrical depth. We also take a cosmic journey with Cameron's Voyagers, a space rock opera that blends music and storytelling in an extraordinary way, inspired by the Voyager space missions. Listen in as we revisit their origins, their return to Tucson, and how this city continues to shape their music and their bond as artists. This episode is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the vibrant community that supports and inspires them.

In this captivating episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we take you behind the scenes with Robert Alpaugh, the visionary leader who played a crucial role in transforming the Arizona Theater Company during one of its most pivotal eras. Discover how Robert's leadership and dedication not only revitalized the Arizona Theater Company but also brought new life to the iconic Temple of Music and Art in Tucson. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and cultural impact of Robert Alpaugh's tenure. From overseeing critical renovations to navigating the complexities of theater production, Robert's story is a testament to the power of art in shaping a community. Listen now to hear Robert's reflections on his journey, the legacy he's left behind, and his ongoing love for Tucson's vibrant arts scene.

In this captivating episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath sits down with Robert Alpaugh, a seasoned performer and dedicated arts advocate, to unravel the rich history of Tucson's iconic Temple of Music and Art. Join us as we explore how this historic venue, originally opened in 1927, has served as a beacon of culture and creativity for nearly a century. Robert Alpaugh shares his unique journey from Broadway to Tucson, shedding light on the Temple's origins, its architectural connections to the Pasadena Playhouse, and the passionate community efforts that saved it from demolition in the 1980s. Through Robert's eyes, we delve into the concept of theaters as sacred spaces—temples where stories are told, lives are examined, and communities come together. Discover how the Temple of Music and Art has evolved from its early days as a hub for musical performances to its revival as the home of the Arizona Theater Company. This episode is a tribute to the individuals who fought to preserve Tucson's cultural legacy and to the enduring power of the arts in our community.

Join us on this inspiring episode of Life Along The Streetcar as we sit down with Kerry Stratford, a visionary brand and marketing strategist who's been a driving force in the revitalization of downtown Tucson. Discover how Kerry's journey, from her early days in Tucson to her influential work with Caliber Group, has shaped the vibrant community we cherish today. Meet Kerry Stratford: From Roots to Caliber Group Dive into Kerry's rich history as a Tucson native and hear about her early projects, including the innovative "Chromophobia" magazine. Learn how her passion for community enhancement led to the creation of Caliber Group, a premier branding agency that's been instrumental in Tucson's urban transformation. Driving Tucson's Growth: Current Projects and Community Impact Explore how Kerry's leadership continues to influence Tucson. From her involvement in the Festival of Books to the transformative Thrive in Tucson campaign, Kerry's projects breathe life into our cultural hub. Her work in restoring the Fox Theater and developing artist live-work spaces has been pivotal in making downtown Tucson a thriving, dynamic area. Shaping Tucson's Future: Exciting Projects on the Horizon Get a sneak peek into Kerry's exciting future projects, like the Mosaic Quarter sports complex, which promises state-of-the-art facilities for Tucson residents. Learn about her ongoing efforts with Sun Corridor to attract young talent to our city, showcasing Tucson's unique lifestyle and affordability. Discover why Kerry's forward-thinking approach is essential for our city's continued growth and prosperity. Be Part of Tucson's Tomorrow As Tom Heath reflects on Kerry's incredible contributions, we're reminded of the power of community and innovation. To learn more about Kerry Stratford and her work, visit Caliber Group. Know someone making a difference in Tucson? Contact Tom Heath to nominate them for a future episode. Let's celebrate and support those who are building a brighter tomorrow for Tucson! Tune in now and be inspired by Kerry Stratford's vision for Tucson's tomorrow!

Join us in this special episode of "Life Along The Streetcar" as we commemorate the 10th anniversary of Tucson's modern streetcar.

Join us in celebrating a monumental milestone with the second part of our 300th episode, featuring a heartfelt farewell to a Downtown Tucson legend, David Slutes.

Join us for a special episode of Life Along the Streetcar as we celebrate the incredible legacy of David Slutes, a true Tucson icon. In this first installment of a two-part interview, we dive deep into David's 27-year journey with Hotel Congress, exploring his pivotal role in transforming this historic venue into a cultural hub. From the early days of an internet cafe to the vibrant multi-stage entertainment center it is today, hear how David's visionary leadership and passion for music and community have left an indelible mark on Tucson. This episode is a tribute to David's contributions and a testament to the evolution of Hotel Congress, a cornerstone of the city's urban core. And stay tuned, because David's story isn't over yet! We build anticipation for his next exciting venture, details of which will be revealed soon. You won't want to miss this captivating conversation that honors the past while looking forward to the future. Tune In and Connect:

In this episode of Life Along the Streetcar, we dive into the fascinating journey of Timber Tote, a unique wooden purse that has taken Tucson by storm. Join us as we sit down with the creative minds behind this innovative product: fashion designer Chelsea Alder and woodworker Jason Robinson. Discover how these two talented entrepreneurs combined their skills to create something truly extraordinary. Chelsea and Jason's story is one of creativity, resilience, and collaboration. From their initial meeting at the Proper Shops in Downtown Tucson to the moment of inspiration that led to the creation of Timber Tote, their journey is a testament to the power of community and the magic that happens when diverse talents unite. Learn about the innovative laser cutting technique that allows wood to bend and form the stylish Timber Tote, and how their partnership has resulted in a product that is not only functional but also a work of art. But the story doesn't stop there. Timber Tote is more than just a wooden purse; it's a blend of tradition and modernity. Chelsea and Jason have perfected a process of adhering fabric to wood, making each purse a unique piece with vibrant colors and intricate designs. They are even exploring custom prints and exclusive collaborations with local artists, ensuring that Timber Tote continues to captivate and inspire. If you're excited to get your hands on a Timber Tote, you're in luck! Visit their website at timbertotepurse.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @timbertotepurse. You can also find Timber Tote at select local retailers, with exclusive designs available at specific locations. Tune in to hear the full story behind Timber Tote and find out how you can support these local artisans. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on SoundCloud for more inspiring stories from Tucson's urban core. Like, comment, and share to help us spread the word about the amazing talent in our community! Listen now and join us in celebrating the creativity and innovation that make Tucson unique!

Join us on this exciting episode of "Life Along the Streetcar" as we delve into the incredible work of Local First Arizona and their Southern Arizona Director, Jessica Barfield. Discover how this dynamic organization has been transforming Tucson by empowering local businesses and fostering community growth. From securing multi-million dollar grants to implementing sustainability programs, Local First Arizona is making a significant impact on our local economy. In this episode, Jessica shares inspiring stories of success, including the establishment of the Arizona Economic Recovery Center and the innovative Navigator Grant program. Learn about their groundbreaking efforts to support small businesses, promote environmental sustainability, and drive economic recovery post-pandemic. Key Programs and Initiatives: - Arizona Economic Recovery Center: Helping to secure grants and bring funds into the state, including $21 million for the Hopi tribe's solar energy project. - Navigator Grant: Providing $12 million to support small businesses, with over $2 million allocated to Tucson. - Sustainability Programs: Assisting businesses in reducing their environmental impact and saving money through operational improvements. - Forza Local: A business accelerator program for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs, offering comprehensive training and support. - Good Food Forum and Expo: An upcoming event on August 27th to connect local food entrepreneurs with buyers and restaurateurs. Tune in to hear how Local First Arizona is building a better Tucson, one business at a time! Don't miss out! - Follow us on SoundCloud to stay updated with the latest episodes. - Like, share, and comment to join the conversation. - Visit our Facebook page at Life Along The Streetcar for more community stories. - Listen to more episodes and subscribe on SoundCloud. Let's celebrate Tucson together!

In this episode of Life Along The Streetcar, we delve into the inspiring story of Colton Annibal, a rising star in Tucson's vibrant music scene. Colton's journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when, as a freshman in high school, he picked up a guitar to pass the time. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a passion, and now Colton is making waves with his soulful music and heartfelt lyrics. Join us as we explore Colton's transformation from an isolated teenager to a promising musician ready to take the stage in Downtown Tucson. Hear about his influences, his creative process, and what drives his musical endeavors. Colton shares insights into his upcoming free concert at the Proper Shops patio and his plans for studying music composition at the University of Arizona. Don't miss this captivating episode filled with music, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future of one of Tucson's most promising young artists.

In this special episode of Life Along the Streetcar, host Tom Heath turns the spotlight on himself, sharing his compelling origin story. Discover how an unexpected encounter with Tucson's rich history sparked Tom's passion for uncovering and promoting the hidden gems of the Old Pueblo. From his first awe-inspiring visit to the Presidio Museum to his journey of becoming a dedicated advocate for Tucson's urban core, Tom reveals the experiences that transformed him from a newcomer to a community champion. Join us as Tom recounts his personal evolution and the creation of the Life Along the Streetcar podcast. Hear about the pivotal moments that inspired him to delve deeper into Tucson's cultural heritage, fostering a deeper connection with the community. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on Tom's mission to share the stories that make Tucson unique, encouraging listeners to explore and appreciate the vibrant urban core. Tune in to learn about the man behind the mic, his unwavering commitment to Tucson, and the ongoing journey to preserve and celebrate the city's rich history and dynamic future.

Episode Highlights: - From Lara to Sharkk: Dive into Lara Ruggles' musical roots, from her first piano compositions to adopting her vibrant alter ego, Sharkk Heartt. - Soundscapes of the Soul: Explore how Tucson's desert landscapes and vibrant community have shaped her sound and artistic vision. - Stage and Solidarity: Hear about Lara's impactful work with the National Independent Venue Association, advocating for music venues nationwide during challenging times. - Upcoming Echoes: Get the scoop on Sharkk Heartt's upcoming Tucson gigs and the dual albums on the horizon. Tune In For Tunes and Tales: Join us as we navigate the melodic metamorphosis of Lara Ruggles into her stage persona, Sharkk Heartt. This episode is a blend of rhythmic revelations and candid conversations, showcasing the creativity and community that define Tucson's music scene. Lara shares her journey with warmth and wit, revealing the stories behind her songs and the reasons she fights for independent music venues. Don't Miss a Beat: