Learn How the Phoenix Convention Center Prepares for the Final Four | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/phoenix-convention-center/3047 | Phoenix Convention Center | | 3/18/2024 8:30:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3047/PCC_12.jpg | | Learn How the Phoenix Convention Center Prepares for the Final Four | <div class="ExternalClassB7C1DD7EA38C4E1A893AA858241796B7"><html>
<p><span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">Long before any basketballs are dribbled through the streets of Phoenix or fans walk through the doors of the facility for the NCAA Men’s Final Four Fan Fest</span><span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">®</span><span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">, the team at the Phoenix Convention Center & Venues has already been hard at work. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> <br></span></p>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">Conversations with the NCAA and local organizing committee have been ongoing on a regular basis for at least a year by the time the events, and thousands of fans, roll into town. In an effort to make sure the facility is ready, and the event is a slam dunk, the team at the Phoenix Convention Center & Venues has completed capital improvement projects and cleaned every surface. But it's not just about the physical space—this dedicated crew has also been busy building strong relationships and crafting strategic plans to ensure every fan's experience is a winning one from start to finish.</span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">The Phoenix Convention Center is home to the </span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">NCAA Men’s Final Four Fan Fest® presented by Capital One from April 5-8 and leadership at the venue say this year’s event will see even more success than the last time the event was here in 2017. City leaders view this event as just one in a series that cements Phoenix as “Championship Valley.” For the Phoenix Convention Center, that means ensuring the accompanying fan fests deliver the kinds of experiences attendees are looking for.</span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">“</span><span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The Phoenix Convention Center is unique at being able to host these large-scale sporting events, not just because we’ve got the square footage required for these fan events or because we are located in the heart of downtown, but because of our team,” said Phoenix Convention Center Director Jerry Harper. “Our team is highly qualified and specialized for these types of events.” </span>
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<p><span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The Phoenix Convention Center’s event serves as a playground for fans to enjoy during the weekend the games are in the Valley, and down the street at Hance Park, fans can also attend a free concert series. Harper said Phoenix serving as the epicenter for fan events is key to making sure everyone gets to participate in these mega events when they come to town. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“Whether it’s the Fan Fest for the Final Four</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">®</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> or the Super Bowl Experience, that’s a way for people and families in particular to still enjoy the excitement of these major events and feel like they are a part of it and having something they can take back and say, ‘You know, I was part of that,’ when they see a game on TV. And when they look back, they can say, ‘I remember when that event was in Phoenix because I was able to go to the event at the Phoenix Convention Center.’” </span>
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<strong>Making memories happen</strong>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The event simply wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for the work of multiple departments across the Phoenix Convention Center. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Every part of the Convention Center’s 200-plus person team touches a major event in some capacity. In the lead-up to the event, Event Managers are working with the client to get the specific requirements for placing everything from intricate floor set-ups to stanchions. Event Services is diligently preparing for the event, ensuring a pristine facility awaits guests’ arrival. Security is working around-the-clock during the event to make sure everyone who passes through the facility doors is safe. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The Event Manager role, said Deputy Director Miguel Munguia, is one of the most critical roles to the event’s success. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“For these mega events like Final Four, an event manager will come on a lot sooner than normal compared to the convention and nonconvention events they are assigned,” he said. “They start building relationships years out and so by the time the client is in the building, there’s a really good business relationship that they have. By the time we get to the event, and everyone is stressed out, it makes things go a lot easier when you have a relationship already established where you’ve built trust.” </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The Convention Center’s in-house security team, during and leading up to the event, is working closely with the City of Phoenix Police Department and the City of Phoenix Fire Department in addition to Homeland Security to ensure all attendees are safe within the facility, Munguia said. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“The event manager is there to make sure the event itself is a success,” he said. “Security is there to make sure it's safe. Those are the primary things whenever we have anyone in the building, that the event is safe and successful.” </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Meanwhile, the Facilities and Event Services teams are preparing the venue to accommodate the influx of thousands of guests.</span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“When it comes to preparing for a mega event, we want to look at everything,” said Assistant Director Bob Fingerman. “We want to look at everything from the garages to the exhibit halls and ballrooms. We look at the conditions of our walls and our restrooms, we want to make it is as inviting as possible for our guests. There’s an expectation when you come to the Phoenix Convention Center that we are fully prepared for our attendees and that’s what we deliver on. We dissect the entire campus infrastructure to make sure that what we are providing is a final product that the public and the community can enjoy.” </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Event Services, in particular, has a heavy lift in the run-up to the event making sure thousands of square footage of the facility shines. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“Event Services is a really special work group, they really do it all,” Fingerman said. “They are heroes here. They make sure that our facilities are clean, they’re prepared, the rooms are set, and the trash is cleaned up. They’re just a wonderful team that takes all of the specifications and requirements for a given event and make it happen.” </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Ahead of the NCAA Men’s Final Four Fan Fest</span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">, the Convention Center completed a lighting overhaul switching the facility over to LED lighting and migrating control panels. Additionally, the team also completed months of work applying new veneer to the walls of the North Ballroom. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“We’re always improving our campus, our infrastructure and it’s all about keeping the community safe, doing </span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">a </span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">great event and really showcasing the destination,” Fingerman said. </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p>
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<strong>The ripple effect</strong>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Eric George, the City of Phoenix Major Events Administrator, plays a key role in coordinating mega events not only within the City’s departments, but with outside organizations as well. For this event, Visit Phoenix, Downtown Phoenix Inc., the City of Glendale, the NCAA, the event producers and the local organizing committee all work together to make sure this event is the best it can be. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“There’s so many details to work through about what streets are going to be closed, where people will park and tons of logistics,” George said. “There’s so many crucial parts that come together and it’s cliché but that wouldn’t happen without all of the collaboration.”</span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">The collaboration during these events is part of what brings such significant impact across the region, George said. For example, Super Bowl LVII in the Valley had a $1.3 billion economic impact according to researchers from Arizona State University. A report from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University stated that the estimated total economic impact for the 2017 Final Four in Arizona was $324.5 million and experts expect this year’s events to surpass that. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“We also know that when people come in for these major events, they stay and there’s tourism activity,” George said. “There’s interest generated all around the state. People might go to the Grand Canyon and stay a little bit longer. And we know that our economic development partners work diligently to bring in outside businesses that may want to relocate to Phoenix, and what better commercial than some of these major events where you see Phoenix on a global stage.” </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Harper said that spotlight on the City is integral to continuing to get these major sporting events in the Valley. The entire City is excited about the NCAA Men’s Final Four</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">® but</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> is also looking ahead to what is coming in the next few years. The WNBA All-Star Game is here this summer, the NCAA Women’s Final Four</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto">®</span>
<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> is in Phoenix in 2026 and the NBA All-Star Game is in Phoenix in 2027. </span>
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<span lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">“All of those events are happening in downtown Phoenix,” Harper said. “So not only do we have the fan experiences at the Convention Center, but the games will be just steps away at Footprint Center. So, the energy and excitement will be condensed into this part of downtown and it’s really going to be something people aren’t going to want to miss. And you’ve probably noticed, we have a basketball theme for the next few years and that’s something we are excited about and looking to embrace. I’m looking forward to the rest of the country recognizing this area as the basketball hub for all basketball-related activities in the next few years.” </span>
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<a href="https://www.ncaa.com/mens-final-four/fan-fest" target="_blank">
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<em>Get tickets to the NCAA Men’s Final Four Fan Fest</em>
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<em>®</em>
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<em> presented by Capital One.</em></span></a></p><br>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/conventioncenter | News | phoenix-convention-center | PCC | | |
Phoenix City Librarian Announces Retirement | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3046 | Library | | 3/18/2024 5:35:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3046/Newsroom_Library_01.png | | Phoenix City Librarian Announces Retirement | <div class="ExternalClass0A34B333ADDE43EAA2E610ABFC8C78F6"><html>
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Rita Hamilton, Phoenix City Librarian has officially announced her retirement in April after serving Phoenix as City Librarian for 13 years.<br></p>
<p>Rita has dedicated her entire career to providing quality library services to the public. As Phoenix City Librarian, Rita has continuously focused on improving library services and resources through automation, growth and incorporating advancing technologies. Rita has held various positions in the library profession for almost 50 years. She developed her knowledge and experience through an extensive career of high-profile projects with Pima County Library, Nashville Public Library, and Scottsdale Public Library before her appointment as Phoenix City Librarian in 2011. As Phoenix City Librarian she has directed all library operations at Burton Barr Central Library and 16 branch libraries providing specialized library services College Depot, StartUp PHX, and PHXWorks.<br></p>
<p>“This is not a decision I have made lightly; I have been in the library world for some time, beginning as a student volunteer at my high school library," said Rita Hamilton. “It has been my great honor to be part of many of Phoenix Public Library's achievements; especially serving the young readers, families, life-long learners and all those that look to the library for life improving information and resources. I am privileged to have worked alongside the dedicated library staff, fellow City of Phoenix departments, and partner with a wonderful cadre of library stakeholders throughout our community. I am excited to see how Phoenix Public Library will continue to embrace new initiatives, build new libraries, and rise to meet the needs of our communities."</p>
<p>"I want to first thank Rita for her leadership these past 13 years in her role as the City Librarian, as well as recognize the positive partnerships that have been developed during her tenure, including the Public Health efforts that were successful as a result of the Phoenix Public Library Team," said Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton. “Effective March 18, 2024, I have asked Mitch Menchaca<span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span>, City of Phoenix Arts and Culture Director<span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span> to help with the transition as the Interim City Librarian while we conduct a national recruitment that will include both internal and external candidates."<br></p>
<p>The City of Phoenix and Phoenix Public Library wish Rita a happy and well-deserved retirement. Rita's retirement is effective April 5, 2024, allowing for a seamless transition with Mitch Menchaca. The City of Phoenix will conduct a national recruitment for the next leader in a new chapter of the 125-year Phoenix Public Library story.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
Watch Phoenix History Month Proclamation | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/city-manager/3044 | City Manager | | 3/12/2024 10:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3044/Phx History Month Graphic Circle.png | https://youtu.be/vFrvubQb1Ro | Watch Phoenix History Month Proclamation | <div class="ExternalClass9A72E3BDFD1847FEA2F1D464BD11A295"><html>
<p><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span>District 7 Phoenix City Councilwoman, Yassamin Ansari, Dr. Deborah Gonzalez, Superintendent Phoenix Elementary School District #1, Andrea Barrera, Social Sciences, Equity, and Global Readiness Specialist Cartwright School District and Jacob Butler, Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community Council joined City of Phoenix Historian, Steve Schumacher to kick off Phoenix History Month and for the reading of the proclamation from Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/citymanager | Video | city-manager | City Manager | | |
A Year of Cultural Reverence: Renaming the S’edav Va’aki Museum | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/sedav-vaaki-museum/3042 | S’edav Va’aki Museum | | 3/6/2024 11:30:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3042/Legacy-Mural-Newsroom-001.jpg | | A Year of Cultural Reverence: Renaming the S’edav Va’aki Museum | <div class="ExternalClassB98B872C81534ABFABAEA4E63BA6567E"><html>
<p>As the S'edav Va'aki Museum, formerly known as Pueblo Grande, began a journey of celebrating the rich cultural history of Phoenix's ancestors, the past year has been an example to the power of identity, heritage, and inclusivity.</p>
In a few short weeks the S'edav Va'aki Museum (SVM) will complete its first year applying its new name after the unanimous vote from the Phoenix Park and Recreation Board on March 23rd, 2023. The decisions to change the museum's name was not just a superficial change, this action brings attention to the reality that names have power, both emotionally and spiritually through oral history. Since that day, museum staff have worked actively to incorporate S'e<span style="text-decoration:underline;">d</span>av Va'aki's new O'Odham name to highlight the connection the site has with the local O'Odham and Piipaash communities. <br><br>
In an effort to introduce positive change and meaningful engagement, SVM has debuted its new logo designed by Jacob Butler (Onk Akimel O'Odham) across many platforms to represent an identity that at the same time honors the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People and respects the native communities that currently live around the Phoenix metropolitan area. <br><br>
Continuing this transformative chapter, SVM has spent the past year updating signage throughout the site including the indoor galleries and outdoor trails in the archaeological park. In November, SVM hosted an official ceremony to celebrate the name change and to debut an onsite mural titled<em> <strong>Legacy</strong> </em>by O'Odham artist Thomas “Breeze" Marcus and the new <strong><em>What's in Our Name?</em></strong> exhibit that explores ways in which the Museum has grown through an updated mission statement, new interpretive signs, programm ing, and ultimately, an entirely new interpretation plan.<br><br>
Recently, SVM continues to strive toward meaningful engagement by installing new signage next to the Legacy mural. This sign serves a platform for guests to read Breeze's artist statement in his own words, provides an overview of key features of the mural, and discusses the cultural and personal significance of the symbolism found in the artwork. <br><br>
As we reflect on this journey of cultural reverence, we are reminded of the power of names, the resilience of communities, and the enduring legacy of those who came before us.<br>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/arts-culture-history/sedav-vaaki | News | sedav-vaaki-museum | SVM | | |
Phoenix City Council Passes Large Water User Ordinance | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/mayors-office/3041 | | Mayor's Office | 3/6/2024 10:12:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3041/pics.jpeg | | Phoenix City Council Passes Large Water User Ordinance | <div class="ExternalClassBBCD23BB63C34880A89084AD6A9F9385"><html>
<p>
Today, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and the City Council unanimously approved a water conservation ordinance geared towards large water users, another major component of the “Sustainable Desert Development Policy” that Gallego has led since early 2022. The new policies follow years of strategic planning to ensure Phoenix is managing its water resources responsibly. Last year, in her 2023 <a href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2023/04/12/transcript-phoenix-mayor-kate-gallego-2023-state-of-the-city/70106147007/" target="_blank">State of the City</a> address, Gallego highlighted her efforts to create these new guidelines – and today, another aspect of the policy suite became law. <br> <br>"Passing our new large water user ordinance is another important milestone in our longstanding commitment to a comprehensive approach to protect our water resources,” said Mayor Gallego. “This new policy will ensure we are balancing our economic development priorities with the critical need to secure our water supply for generations to come. Phoenix will continue to lead the way both in policy and practice to ensure we sustain our most precious resource.” <br> <br>Other components of the Sustainable Desert Development guidelines passed last June come in the form of rezoning stipulations, which include regulations on non-functional turf, a mandate to meet <a href="https://www.epa.gov/watersense" target="_blank">EPA WaterSense</a> or similar certification, planting of drought-tolerant and native plants, outdoor irrigation standards, enhanced standards for swimming pools, and more. <br> <br>The new ordinance places additional requirements on new projects estimated to use more than 250,000 gallons per day. Those new large water users must submit a water conservation plan that is approved by the Phoenix Water Services Department. Any new users projected to use more than 500,000 gallons per day must submit a conservation plan, meet at least 30 percent of their consumptive water demand with recycled or conserved water, and fit within the City's existing Water Resource Portfolio. <br> <br>Today’s City Council vote builds upon decades of water-forward policies in Phoenix that benefit the region. The new policies go hand-in-hand with the City Council’s vote last year to leave up to 150,000 acre-feet of water in Lake Mead over the next three years, as well as with Gallego's 2023 announcement to create an <a href="https://www.azfamily.com/2023/04/14/phoenix-hopes-turn-wastewater-into-drinking-water-by-2030/" target="_blank">Advanced Water Purification</a> facility that will recycle nearly 60 million gallons of water per day. <br> <br><a href="/cityclerksite/City%20Council%20Meeting%20Files/3-6-24%20Formal%20Agenda%20-%20Final.pdf#page=148" target="_blank">See the text of the new large water user ordinance</a>.<br> <br><a href="/cityclerksite/City%20Council%20Meeting%20Files/6-13-23%20Policy%20Agenda%20-%20Final.pdf" target="_blank">See the Sustainable Desert Development Resolution passed in 2023</a>.<br> <br><a href="/waterservices/resourcesconservation" target="_blank">Learn more about Phoenix’s water conservation programs</a>.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://phoenix.gov/mayor | News | mayors-office | Mayor's Office | | |
Nominate Someone: 2024 Disability Awards | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/equal-opportunity/2775 | Equal Opportunity | | 3/6/2024 10:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2775/Newsroom_EOD_035.jpg | | Nominate Someone: 2024 Disability Awards | <div class="ExternalClassA657687FBE0B4FC5A33C057EE7AAAA0C"><html>
<p>Recognizing ability, advocacy, accessibility, and achievements since 1993, the Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues has a proud history of honoring champions in the disability community that make a tremendous impact in the Valley. <br></p><p>The Phoenix Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues and the City of Phoenix are proud sponsors of the Disability Awards and Recognition Event (D.A.R.E.). The event honors exceptional individuals, organizations, and businesses for their dedication and service to people with disabilities.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p><p>The award ceremony is held annually to recognize award winners that made a commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents and communities of Phoenix. It is our hope this will inspire others to emulate the honorees and provide inclusivity for the community of Phoenix.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p><p>Award categories include Architectural, Business, Community Service, Outstanding Educator, and the Det. Olsen Lifetime Achievement Award. Self-nominations are encouraged! Nominate yourself or others/businesses that demonstrate a commitment to community. D.A.R.E. award nominees represent the very best of Arizona.</p><p>Showcase the amazing work of individuals and businesses by nominating someone for the D.A.R.E Awards today! Nominations need to be submitted <a target="_blank" href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=XGm5lg5PvUKK37p1V2A0a8dCr72llv1Cj74wxYXqWblUQlY3QUU0VkpFT1NMV001NzVIOVdMSjRYTC4u&wdLOR=c74825640-F7DE-4979-9E8E-0BE38E5B8BBE">online</a> by July 31. For more information, call 602-534-1279.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/eod | News | equal-opportunity | EOD | | |
Critical Incident Briefing - February 19, 2024 - 6000 W. McDowell Rd. | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/police/3040 | Police | | 3/4/2024 10:00:00 PM | | https://youtu.be/5h3Mq7sJLts | Critical Incident Briefing - February 19, 2024 - 6000 W. McDowell Rd. | <div class="ExternalClassB7D39398EE4542B18560BC716BD96B80"><html><strong>WARNING: The attached video may contain strong language as well as graphic images which may be disturbing to some people. Viewer discretion is advised.</strong><br><br>The Phoenix Police Department has released a Critical Incident Briefing (CIB) video that includes audio, visuals and information related to an officer-involved shooting (OIS) which occurred on February 19, 2024.<br><br>This incident began in the area of 27th Avenue and Van Buren Street around 10:45 p.m. when patrol officers saw a brown vehicle leave the parking lot of a business at a high rate of speed. <br><br>Officers were unable to catch up to the vehicle, so they relayed the information to other officers in the area. Another officer spotted the vehicle around 34th Avenue and Van Buren Street and attempted to pull it over. <br><br>When the vehicle did not stop, the police helicopter took over and followed the car as patrol units backed off. <br><br>The vehicle continued until it reached the area of 43rd Avenue and Granada Road. The driver got out of the vehicle and ran up to a car with a gun in his hand. The driver of that car reacted and drove away. <br><br>The suspect got back in his car and drove to 60th Lane and McDowell Road. That is where he got out of his car still armed and ran up to another car yelling at that driver. The driver of that car drove away. <br><br>The suspect then ran towards a red car stopped in the roadway. At this point, officers were driving into the area and saw the man approach the car. The driver of that car said the man slammed both hands on the hood of her car holding a gun and demanded she give him her car. He then tried to open her door. <br><br>One officer arrived and a second officer showed up as his back up. Both officers reported seeing the suspect point his gun at one of the officers. <br><br>That is when the suspect and one officer exchanged gunfire. The suspect was hit and fell to the ground. The officer was not hurt.<br><br>After the shooting, officers moved up and provided medical aid to the man until fire personnel arrived. The man was taken to the hospital where he later died from his injuries.<br><br>A gun was recovered near where the suspect was shot. Evidence was found that showed the suspect fired his handgun during the shooting. No officers or community members were injured. <br><br>The car the suspect was driving had been reported stolen.<br><br>The officer involved in this shooting has been with the Department for 20 years and assigned to the Maryvale Estrella Mountain Precinct.<br><br>This incident is the subject of a criminal investigation to be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. <br><br>It is also the subject of an administrative investigation. <br><br><p>Conclusions about whether the actions of the officers are consistent with department policy and the law will not be made until all facts are known and the investigation is complete.<br></p><p><br></p></html></div> | https://phoenix.gov/police | Video | police | Police | | |
City of Phoenix Hosts Its Largest Neighborhood Tree Planting Event of the Season | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/environmental-programs/3039 | Environment & Sustainability | | 3/1/2024 4:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3039/image000001.JPG | | City of Phoenix Hosts Its Largest Neighborhood Tree Planting Event of the Season | <div class="ExternalClassCAA0A79D70654191B18E50FFF6932A6A"><html>
<p><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">The </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">City of Phoenix is planting approximately 200</span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> 24" box trees for grant recipients living in a Westwood neighborhood on Saturday, March 2, marking it as the biggest City-sponsored neighborhood tree planting event of the season.</span></p>
<p>“Planting trees across Phoenix not only enhances the beauty of our neighborhoods but also puts in motion our strategic vision for urban forestry. These trees represent our commitment to shade equity and climate resilience, ensuring that every resident enjoys the benefits of a greener, cooler, and more inviting environment," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.</p>
<p>Last fall, the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation launched its Community Canopy grant program which offers free trees and tree planting support for residents and neighborhoods in <a href="https://www.huduser.gov/portal/sadda/sadda_qct.html" target="_blank">Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs)</a>. </p>
<p>"I am incredibly proud to represent such a vibrant and engaged community," Councilwoman Laura Pastor said. “It brings me great joy to see so many of my constituents taking advantage of the Community Canopy grant program, as it not only beautifies our neighborhoods but also has numerous environmental benefits."</p>
<p>Trees for the tree planting are being supplied by <a href="https://www.treeland.com/" target="_blank">Treeland Nurseries</a> and contractor <a href="https://westcoastarborists.com/" target="_blank">West Coast Arborists</a> will plant trees for grant recipients. In addition, each resident will receive a supply bag equipped with an irrigation timer, a moisture meter, a 100-foot hose, two t-shirts as well as information on their trees and how to care for them. </p>
<p>“The goal of these tree plantings is to provide more shade to homes in Phoenix neighborhoods as well as bring communities together. A lot of these residents are meeting their neighbors for the first time," says Urban Tree Project Manager Lora Martens. “These tree plantings in front line communities, are truly improving the tree equity gap in our city." </p>
<p>The grant program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and <a href="https://phoenix-gov.formstack.com/forms/community_canopy_grant_application" target="_blank">applications</a> for the Community Canopy grant program are still being accepted. Residents interested in getting trees planted in their neighborhood can submit their application online at <a href="/heat" target="_blank">Phoenix.gov/heat</a>. All projects must be completed by Dec. 31. <br><br></p>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/oep | News | environmental-programs | Environment | | |