SE Valley Times

Tempe residents and visitors are gearing up for a variety of events and initiatives in the city this week. One such event is the 20th Annual Pat’s Run, where participants will race 4.2 miles in honor of Pat Tillman. With nearly 30,000 athletes participating each year, the event has also supported 850 Tillman Scholars.

Another heartwarming initiative in Tempe is the partnership between Loaves and Fishes and the City of Tempe to provide meals at the city-owned shelter, Sue’s Espacio, for those experiencing homelessness. Patt Mitchell, one of the volunteers involved, emphasized the importance of giving back and sharing resources with those in need.

To enhance community safety and reduce incidents of street racing, Lakeview Drive will have its gates closing earlier at 8 p.m. instead of the usual 10 p.m. to midnight. This decision comes after an increase in police patrols in the area to address issues related to speeding and reckless driving.

In the realm of arts and culture, Tempe residents can enjoy the Light Lane interactive art installation by LeMonde Studio along Mill Avenue, combining bikes, music, and visual art. The installation features stationary bicycles that project light and sound when activated by pedaling, showcasing the talent of local artists and musicians.

Tempe's commitment to resident satisfaction and sustainability is evident in recent surveys, where the city ranked among the top 10% of all surveyed U.S. cities for various services, including residential recycling, walking and biking paths, and access to city facilities for persons with disabilities.

As April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Tempe's Community Health and Human Services Department, Police Department, and Fire Medical Rescue are highlighting resources available to support victims of sexual violence. The CARE 7 Victim Services team served 360 individuals and families who reported incidents of sexual violence last year.

On April 10, Dolores Huerta Day will be celebrated in honor of the American labor leader and civil rights activist. Meanwhile, the city is abuzz with upcoming events like Project Connect, the Kid Zone food drive for CARE 7, and the Tempe PedalPalooza 2024, which promises to be a revolution on two wheels.

Residents can also look forward to engaging discussions, such as the panel on Black women leading the way in supporting human rights, and exciting events like the Four Peaks cookie and beer pairing event, the Mayor's All-Abilities Awards, and the Tempe Legends Gala Reception.

In the spirit of community engagement, Tempe invites residents to participate in various events and initiatives that contribute to the city's vibrancy and inclusivity. For more information on these events and how to get involved, residents can visit the City of Tempe's official website.