Wednesday, April 9th, 2025
Good morning, Surprise. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 9th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ ABC15 reporter Nick Ciletti spoke with hikers on Camelback Mountain during record-breaking heat as locals warned that unprepared visitors face serious risks from the high temperatures and challenging trail conditions. Local advocates such as Bradley Sinclair and Chelsey McHale urged more safety measures—like clearer warnings and new education programs—to help prevent future tragedies. ABC15
- ➤ Volunteers are needed for Surprise Vet Fest to support the troops, where helpers will write letters, sort donations, assemble care packages and decorate donation boxes — with drop-off bins available at the event — at Mark Coronado Park on Saturday, April 12 at 5 p.m. Surprise Independent
- ➤ Since Stage Left Productions moved from Bel Mar Plaza to Glendale last fall — youth actors in Surprise now fill the community theater gap with a new artistic outlet. Surprise Independent
- ➤ Sun City Community Assistance Network is urging snowbirds leaving for summer to donate and volunteer, saying many residents struggle with high energy bills and cooling their homes during hot months (computer-savvy volunteers and grant writers are especially needed to help secure critical funding). Surprise Independent
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Arts HQ Gallery in Surprise is calling for Arizona artists who use heat to create fine works of art for its Art Under Fire exhibit. The exhibit (featuring both 2D and 3D pieces) will run from June 27 to July 31. Surprise Independent
- ➤ The West Valley Arts Council is accepting applications for Gallery 37 — a five-week summer public art program for high school juniors and seniors to create and install a permanent artwork — in a West Valley city. Students will earn free college credits from Estrella Mountain Community College plus a cash stipend — deadline: 5 p.m. April 18 —. Surprise Independent
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Arizona Public Service has offered nine tips to help residents lower energy bills as high temperatures are expected this week; they recommend scheduling an HVAC tune-up, checking smart thermostat settings and replacing air filters for better performance. Homeowners can also join APS Cool Rewards and use online tools for payment help + access a free virtual energy checkup. Surprise Independent
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Surprise Fire-Medical Department earned its second five-year accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International as it met all stringent review standards—city officials said the achievement reflects its ongoing commitment to safety. Surprise Independent
- ➤ Surprise police chief Benny Pina—who began his role in 2021—will retire on May 2 as the city begins its search for a new leader. His retirement comes months after a controversial arrest at a city council meeting, and a related lawsuit continues. ABC15
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2nd Annual Cabaret for Youth
Raising funds for before and after school and summer enrichment programs for underprivileged children in Surprise. Music from the Arizona Swing Band, Chef Peter's desserts and drinks all at Happy Trails Performing Arts Center.
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Wednesday Night Doubles
6-7:30 p.m. — Tennis and Raquet Complex Parking — $7.50 — Enjoy social doubles tennis with randomly matched opponents for all skill levels.
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Foodie Fest West
4-10 p.m. — Mark Coronado Park — Various prices — Indulge in mouthwatering dishes from local vendors and food trucks at this ultimate foodie event.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Good Day Surprise
Welcome to the Good Day Surprise, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Surprise, Arizona community. If you like the Good Day Surprise, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Surprise.
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