Good morning, Surprise.

Every Monday and Friday, La Mesa Ministries drives its food truck to Surprise and offers hot meals, along with free clothing such as shoes, shirts, pants, and jackets—provided without any questions asked.

The service meets the needs of local residents, including those living on the streets, in all weather conditions.

Tony Miranda from Surprise is celebrating his 62nd birthday after receiving a triple organ transplant that replaced his heart, liver, and kidney—two years after a health struggle began when Sun City cardiologist Dr. Michael Amponsah advised him to consider a transplant.

He now enjoys a renewed chance at life with support from his family.

Residents in Surprise are preparing for a busy holiday season with events such as Fiesta Grande on October 11 featuring Mexican food, activities and donations for the Valley View Community Food Bank—along with an On Deck Program on October 16 and a Monster Bash on October 24 offering STEM activities and a costume contest. The newsletter also highlights local services like the Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Fall Break Camp enrollment to support community needs—ensuring a vibrant season ahead for all.

On Oct. 1, the new business development and innovation hub in Surprise launched at Arts HQ—next to City Hall—by hosting its first seminar, 'Show Me the Money,' where local business leaders, owners, and city officials discussed funding opportunities.

The Spark Surprise program will officially begin in January, and moderator Brian Sandusky led panelists from The Idea Gardener and Prestamos CDFI.

Schools play a key role in building community and boosting the economy in Surprise.

The city and Dysart Unified School District keep school fields open for residents and waive rental fees for community programs—local leaders plan a bond measure to further improve facilities and quality of life.

On Sept 26, the Imagine Prep seniors gathered at 5:45 a.m.—before dawn—for their fourth annual Senior Sunrise event.

They enjoyed breakfast, games, and painting their parking spots while staff chaperoned the celebration.

The Surprise City Council is expected to vote today at 6 p.m. at City Hall on whether to oppose the controversial BNSF intermodal hub—city staff has recommended rejecting the $3.2 billion project because of its risk to public safety and city infrastructure.