Latest news with #Mesa
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Mesa works to preserve Arizona's fading citrus history
The Brief FOX 10's Steve Nielsen catches up with Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman about the city's effort to preserve one of the Cs that Arizona is known for – citrus. He says protecting Arizona's agriculture is important and that the city stands ready to preserve it. MESA, Ariz. - Arizona was founded on the five Cs: copper, cattle, cotton, citrus and climate. As time has moved on, citrus has fallen off, but the city of Mesa is trying to preserve that part of our agricultural history. What we know More than 200 acres are tucked away in the city of Mesa at Gene Autry Park. "These are one of the last bastions here of citrus here in the East Valley," Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman said. "Ironically, this area is one of the last city of Mesa-owned orchards. We're here at Gene Autry Park. These trees are well over 90 years old." The land these oranges are grown on can't be used for much else. "We've created a safety zone for the aircraft flying back and forth through Falcon Field, and so this area will always be predominantly citrus," Mayor Freeman said. So citrus it will remain – beautiful, a great smell when they bloom – but also a history lesson growing right in front of our eyes that started in the 1910s. "These orchards were established and, remember, there was nothing out here and this citrus here, it was sent all over the world because, predominantly, the competition was between California, Arizona and Florida," Mayor Freeman explained. Dig deeper Over the years, as Mesa's population has exploded, orange groves have become more and more rare. "The land has become more valuable for development, so the landowners that own their land in citrus today are selling to developers for building homes or other things," Mayor Freeman said. But, these Valencia oranges will remain. Once they're ready, they'll be sold and shipped to Yuma where they'll be squeezed for fresh orange juice. That's the way it will be, because these trees will grow just like the city of Mesa, and they aren't going anywhere. "The protection of our agriculture is so important and Mesa stands ready to preserve that," Mayor Freeman said. What you can do Click here to learn more about Arizona's 5 Cs.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
2 Arizona Teens Found Dead from 'Gunshot Wounds' amid Reported Memorial Day Weekend Camping Trip, Prompting Investigation
Two Arizona teenagers were found dead with gunshot wounds in a remote location after leaving for a reported Memorial Day weekend camping trip The teens — identified as 17-year-old Evan Clark and 18-year-old Pandora Kjolsrud — were found in the area of Mount Ord, which is located between the cities of Mesa and Payson, on Tuesday, May 27 Authorities are treating the deaths as "suspicious" and have launched a homicide investigationTwo teenagers were found dead in a remote area of Arizona earlier this week, and authorities are now investigating their deaths as a possible homicide. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) said 18-year-old Pandora Kjolsrud and a 17-year-old boy were found dead from gunshot wounds early on Tuesday, May 27, in the area of Mount Ord, according to Fox affiliate KSAZ-TV and ABC affiliate KNXV-TV. While authorities did not reveal the name of the boy, friends have since identified him as Evan Clark, according to both outlets. Per AZFamily, the sheriff's office has launched a homicide investigation. In a statement to PEOPLE on Sunday, June 1, an MCSO spokesperson said the office was "actively working this case," which involves "two victims who tragically lost their lives due to gunshot wounds." "MCSO is seeking the community's assistance," the statement continued. "If you have any information — no matter how small — that may be relevant to this case, we strongly encourage you to come forward. Your help could be critical in bringing answers and justice to the victims and their families. You may remain anonymous." Urging anyone with information to contact the MCSO Tip Line at 602-876-TIPS, the sheriff's office added: "We thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of our community." Per ABC News, the MCSO initially responded to a call in the area of Mount Ord, which is located between the cities of Mesa and Payson, before locating the "two deceased individuals." The teens went on a Memorial Day weekend camping trip at the Tonto National Forest and did not return, according to KSAZ. Friends of the pair have since set up a memorial overlooking Camelback Mountain, where the two would often watch the sunset with friends, KSAZ reported. Kylie Whattim, a coworker of one of the victims, called the news "shocking," while Clark's coworker Iara Rosales said the teen's life was "cut very short." "And so was Pandora's," she told KSAZ. "They were very young, and it was just so sudden and a tragedy that you wouldn't even imagine." GoFundMe campaigns have since been established for the families of both Kjolsrud and Clark. Kjolsrud's loved ones described her as someone with "a vivacious personality" and "an infectious smile that brought joy to so many," while Clark's fundraiser featured a message from his mother, Sandra Malibu Sweeney, who remembered him as "funny, bright, kind and entrepreneurial." Kjolsrud was a musician who played violin, cello and guitar, per her fundraiser. She was also a lover of the outdoors who enjoyed camping, horseback riding, kayaking and hiking. She "never failed to stop and greet any dog she passed on her hikes and neighborhood walks," the GoFundMe description said. Kjolsrud's mother told KNXV that her daughter "had an unusual ability to make every person she met feel special and loved." "She was a friend to many and a beloved daughter," the mom said. "She lived life in a big way and was always up for an adventure. She loved hiking and camping, and her favorite place on earth was Camelback Mountain." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In another statement to the outlet, a representative for the teen's wider family asked for privacy, thanked the community for its support and revealed they were working closely with law enforcement and had "full faith that justice will be served." "This fundraiser is being organized to allow Pandora's family to grieve the unimaginable loss of their daughter without the worry of financial burden," Kjolsrud's GoFundMe description said. "All funds raised will be deposited directly into an account accessible only by Pandora's mother and father, ensuring that every contribution goes to supporting them during this incredibly difficult time. While funeral services will be private, the family plans to hold a community celebration of life in the coming months so that all who loved Pandora can gather to honor her memory." Clark's mother described her late son as her only child who was "on his way to becoming a wonderful man." "Evan wrote me letters, the last of which he gave me on Mother's Day that was so touching it made me both laugh and cry. He was special. He deserved a long life," Sweeney wrote. Clark, who worked at Crumbl Cookies, enjoyed concerts, photography, cars and taking trips to Malibu, Calif., his mother wrote. She added that he "flourished socially" during his final school year at Arcadia High School (AHS). According to KNXV, AHS sent a letter to families confirming that two students had died and that the sheriff's office was investigating. The school will be offering counseling and support services. "The outpouring of concern from these communities has meant so very much to me," Clark's mother wrote. "I sincerely thank every person who has reached out to offer compassion and sympathy. The kindness I have been shown has touched me greatly. Thank you all." She concluded her GoFundMe description with a quote: 'Let go of the past, let go of the future, let go of the present, and cross to the far shore. With the mind and body liberated, you shall suffer no more.' The fundraisers for Clark and Kjolsrud have since raised nearly $15,000 and nearly $18,000, respectively. The MCSO said in a statement to ABC News that it is now focused on "conducting a comprehensive and meticulous investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their loved ones." "We are coordinating closely with our law enforcement partners and ask for patience and respect for the investigative process as we work through the facts," the sheriff's office added. Read the original article on People
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
2 Arizona Teens Found Dead from 'Gunshot Wounds' amid Reported Memorial Day Weekend Camping Trip, Prompting Investigation
Two Arizona teenagers were found dead with gunshot wounds in a remote location after leaving for a reported Memorial Day weekend camping trip The teens — identified as 17-year-old Evan Clark and 18-year-old Pandora Kjolsrud — were found in the area of Mount Ord, which is located between the cities of Mesa and Payson, on Tuesday, May 27 Authorities are treating the deaths as "suspicious" and have launched a homicide investigationTwo teenagers were found dead in a remote area of Arizona earlier this week, and authorities are now investigating their deaths as a possible homicide. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) said 18-year-old Pandora Kjolsrud and a 17-year-old boy were found dead from gunshot wounds early on Tuesday, May 27, in the area of Mount Ord, according to Fox affiliate KSAZ-TV and ABC affiliate KNXV-TV. While authorities did not reveal the name of the boy, friends have since identified him as Evan Clark, according to both outlets. Per AZFamily, the sheriff's office has launched a homicide investigation. In a statement to PEOPLE on Sunday, June 1, an MCSO spokesperson said the office was "actively working this case," which involves "two victims who tragically lost their lives due to gunshot wounds." "MCSO is seeking the community's assistance," the statement continued. "If you have any information — no matter how small — that may be relevant to this case, we strongly encourage you to come forward. Your help could be critical in bringing answers and justice to the victims and their families. You may remain anonymous." Urging anyone with information to contact the MCSO Tip Line at 602-876-TIPS, the sheriff's office added: "We thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of our community." Per ABC News, the MCSO initially responded to a call in the area of Mount Ord, which is located between the cities of Mesa and Payson, before locating the "two deceased individuals." The teens went on a Memorial Day weekend camping trip at the Tonto National Forest and did not return, according to KSAZ. Friends of the pair have since set up a memorial overlooking Camelback Mountain, where the two would often watch the sunset with friends, KSAZ reported. Kylie Whattim, a coworker of one of the victims, called the news "shocking," while Clark's coworker Iara Rosales said the teen's life was "cut very short." "And so was Pandora's," she told KSAZ. "They were very young, and it was just so sudden and a tragedy that you wouldn't even imagine." GoFundMe campaigns have since been established for the families of both Kjolsrud and Clark. Kjolsrud's loved ones described her as someone with "a vivacious personality" and "an infectious smile that brought joy to so many," while Clark's fundraiser featured a message from his mother, Sandra Malibu Sweeney, who remembered him as "funny, bright, kind and entrepreneurial." Kjolsrud was a musician who played violin, cello and guitar, per her fundraiser. She was also a lover of the outdoors who enjoyed camping, horseback riding, kayaking and hiking. She "never failed to stop and greet any dog she passed on her hikes and neighborhood walks," the GoFundMe description said. Kjolsrud's mother told KNXV that her daughter "had an unusual ability to make every person she met feel special and loved." "She was a friend to many and a beloved daughter," the mom said. "She lived life in a big way and was always up for an adventure. She loved hiking and camping, and her favorite place on earth was Camelback Mountain." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In another statement to the outlet, a representative for the teen's wider family asked for privacy, thanked the community for its support and revealed they were working closely with law enforcement and had "full faith that justice will be served." "This fundraiser is being organized to allow Pandora's family to grieve the unimaginable loss of their daughter without the worry of financial burden," Kjolsrud's GoFundMe description said. "All funds raised will be deposited directly into an account accessible only by Pandora's mother and father, ensuring that every contribution goes to supporting them during this incredibly difficult time. While funeral services will be private, the family plans to hold a community celebration of life in the coming months so that all who loved Pandora can gather to honor her memory." Clark's mother described her late son as her only child who was "on his way to becoming a wonderful man." "Evan wrote me letters, the last of which he gave me on Mother's Day that was so touching it made me both laugh and cry. He was special. He deserved a long life," Sweeney wrote. Clark, who worked at Crumbl Cookies, enjoyed concerts, photography, cars and taking trips to Malibu, Calif., his mother wrote. She added that he "flourished socially" during his final school year at Arcadia High School (AHS). According to KNXV, AHS sent a letter to families confirming that two students had died and that the sheriff's office was investigating. The school will be offering counseling and support services. "The outpouring of concern from these communities has meant so very much to me," Clark's mother wrote. "I sincerely thank every person who has reached out to offer compassion and sympathy. The kindness I have been shown has touched me greatly. Thank you all." She concluded her GoFundMe description with a quote: 'Let go of the past, let go of the future, let go of the present, and cross to the far shore. With the mind and body liberated, you shall suffer no more.' The fundraisers for Clark and Kjolsrud have since raised nearly $15,000 and nearly $18,000, respectively. The MCSO said in a statement to ABC News that it is now focused on "conducting a comprehensive and meticulous investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their loved ones." "We are coordinating closely with our law enforcement partners and ask for patience and respect for the investigative process as we work through the facts," the sheriff's office added. Read the original article on People
Fox News
4 days ago
- General
- Fox News
EXCLUSIVE: ICE issues detainers against alleged illegal immigrant burglars
EXCLUSIVE: Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued seven detainers for removal against illegal immigrants who allegedly committed two burglaries in Tempe and Mesa, Arizona, last week. The suspects are allegedly part of a South American Theft Group that committed two burglaries in the Phoenix area cities May 23, and they were arrested by the Scottsdale Police Department at the short-term rental the group was staying in. "Under Secretary Noem's leadership, criminal illegal aliens are being held accountable for victimizing Americans," Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. "ICE is working alongside partner law enforcement agencies throughout the country to ensure that South American Theft Groups — like the one allegedly responsible for burglaries in California, Oregon, Washington and Arizona — are dismantled and deported once and for all. We will not allow criminal illegal aliens to terrorize American communities," McLaughlin added. The suspects are Nicolas Rojas Leon, 23, Joan Sebastian Orozco-Vargas, 26, Andres David Sanchez-Novoa, 38, Natalia Isabella Ortiz-Daza, 26, Martha Juliana Echiverri-Guzman, 28, Lady Johanna Gueito, 32, and Angie Paola Herandez-Manrique, 25. According to DHS, the group operates out of California but is originally from Colombia. Scottsdale Police were informed by Burbank Police in California about the SATG organization May 20 after it allegedly committed other burglaries in California, Oregon and Washington. Golden State authorities shared information, like vehicle descriptions, to help them find the suspects. A French Bulldog was stolen in one of the California break-ins, and it will be returned, according to police. The police department was alerted to the group May 20 by the Burbank Police Department in California. It was warned about a SATG group from Colombia that had allegedly committed burglaries in California, Oregon and Washington and how it could be making its way to Arizona next. Each suspect was ordered held in the Maricopa County Jail pending "numerous criminal charges" on $150,000 cash-only bonds. South American Theft Groups have been prevalent throughout communities in California, Arizona, Colorado and nationwide, particularly in affluent areas. Although this group originated in Colombia, SATGs, like those from Chile, have triggered bipartisan calls for visa waiver program reform. A string of "dinner-time burglaries" in recent years in the Grand Canyon State has ties to SATGs, Arizona's Family reported in March 2024. When Fox News Digital reached out to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, it noted comments County Attorney Rachel Mitchell made at a press conference earlier this week before ICE formally announced the detainers. "Obviously that's a federal issue," Mitchell said when asked about the possibility of suspects being deported. "But my understanding is that there is an ICE file stop on each of the individuals." Scottsdale police said they do not comment on ICE-related matters and deferred to the county attorney's office. There are no sanctuary jurisdictions listed by the DHS in Arizona.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Arizona Desert Shocks Expands Mesa 2.5 Series to Broader Platforms, Bringing Race-Tested Suspension to Everyday Drivers
New shocks line delivers race-inspired suspension for top off-road platforms, including Toyota, Jeep, Ford, Chevy, GMC and Ram BOWLING GREEN, Ky., May 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arizona Desert Shocks (ADS), part of the Holley Performance Brands (NYSE: HLLY) portfolio, today announced additional platform expansion to support the launch of its Mesa 2.5 Series shocks – a significant step forward for the iconic suspension brand as it seeks to bring its race-tested technology to a larger segment of the automotive aftermarket. With new direct replacement kits now available for more platforms than ever, Mesa 2.5 Series shocks offer a high-quality off-road suspension upgrade that brings competition-inspired performance to a wider variety of enthusiasts – from weekend adventurers to daily drivers. "At Holley Performance Brands, we're committed to delivering innovative products that enhance performance, safety and driving excitement for every level of enthusiast," said Matthew Stevenson, President & CEO. "The Mesa 2.5 Series is a prime example—offering race-proven capability and control on and off road, without added complexity. With this new shock series, ADS delivers performance, convenience and affordability in one high-performance solution." ADS leveraged decades of experience in building custom race shocks to engineer the Mesa 2.5 series. Made in the U.S. with premium materials at ADS's flagship Tucson facility, the result is upgraded suspension performance that delivers better vehicle control and handling over mass-produced stock shocks. Whether drivers are crawling rocks, blasting through desert trails, or want better ride confidence for everyday driving, the Mesa shocks provide drivers with the edge for safer and faster off-road travel. With an estimated 48 million vehicles currently on the road that could benefit from the Mesa 2.5 Series technology, ADS and Holley Performance Brands are expanding access to this premium suspension upgrade by offering direct fitment kits for more popular vehicle platforms, including: Toyota Tacoma, Tundra and Land Cruiser Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler Ford F-150, Bronco, and 2500/3500 Super Duty trucks Chevrolet Silverado HD GMC Sierra HD Ram 2500 Key Features and Benefits: Direct replacement fit for faster, easier installation Made in the U.S.A. using American components at ADS's Tucson, Arizona facility Premium materials like aerospace-grade aluminum and stainless steel enhance durability and corrosion resistance 2.5" shock body provides increased damping control and reduced fade Rebuildable and tunable design for longer lifespan and cost savings Customer-Inspired Design ADS has built a 25-year track record of consistent and reliable performance in off-road motor sports, while keeping the voice of the customer at the heart of product innovation. The retail space within its Tucson, Arizona development facility allows product engineers to get direct feedback from customers, insight that was instrumental in shaping the Mesa 2.5 Series shocks. "We were very thoughtful and intentional in the design of the Mesa 2.5 Series," said Osvaldo Gallegos, Vice President, Modern Truck & Off-Road Division, Holley Performance Brands. "We combined customer feedback and our decades of expertise to create a custom-tailored, race-quality shock that's ready to install and go. It's built for performance, priced for reality and made to last." Driven by strong market demand, the Mesa 2.5 Series is slated for continued expansion across an increasingly diverse range of truck, off-road and UTV platforms—broadening access to ADS's race-proven performance and engineering. For information about how you can purchase the ADS Mesa 2.5 Series shocks, click here. For more Holley company news, click here. Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other important factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to Holley's ability to (1) successfully design, develop, and market new, effective, and safe products, (2) compete effectively in our market, (3) maintain and strengthen demand for our products and brands, (4) attract new customers in a cost-effective manner, (5) expand into additional consumer markets, and (6) and the other risks and uncertainties set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 14, 2025, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. About Holley Performance Brands Holley Performance Brands (NYSE: HLLY) leads in the design, manufacturing and marketing of high-performance products for automotive enthusiasts. The company owns and manages a portfolio of iconic brands, catering to a diverse community of enthusiasts passionate about the customization and performance of their vehicles. Holley Performance Brands distinguishes itself through a strategic focus on four consumer vertical groupings, including Domestic Muscle, Modern Truck & Off-Road, Euro & Import, and Safety & Racing, ensuring a wide-ranging impact across the automotive aftermarket industry. Renowned for its innovative approach and strategic acquisitions, Holley Performance Brands is committed to enhancing the enthusiast experience and driving growth through innovation. For more information on Holley Performance Brands and its dedication to automotive excellence, visit View source version on Contacts Media Relations Contact(s):Jordan Moore, jmoore@ / Sydney Goggans, sgoggans@ Investor Relations Contacts: Anthony Rozmus / Neel SikkaSolebury Strategic Communications203-428-3224Holley@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data
