OCTOBER 13, 2025

City of Surprise Stands with Residents: Opposes BNSF Intermodal Hub in Wittmann

On October 7th, the City of Surprise unanimously took a strong and decisive stand by passing a resolution officially opposing BNSF’s proposal to build the largest intermodal hub in the United States in Wittmann.

This move reflects the overwhelming concerns of West Valley residents who know this project would forever change the character of our community. If approved by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the intermodal hub would bring:

Increased traffic with an estimated 22,000 additional trucks on our roadways every day.
Poorer air quality from truck and train emissions.
Excessive noise pollution disrupting the quiet, rural lifestyle residents treasure.
Industrial sprawl into a community that has long valued its western heritage and open spaces.

The City of Surprise deserves a heartfelt thank you for standing up to BNSF and making the voices of residents heard. This resolution is proof that local leaders recognize the long-term consequences of placing heavy industry in the heart of rural Arizona.

But the fight is not over. The final decision now rests with the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, who are scheduled to vote on November 5th, 2025.

👉 If you believe the West Valley should not become home to this massive industrial project, please add your voice today. Click the link below to sign the petition and tell the Board of Supervisors to vote NO.

SIGN THE PETITION

Honoring Charlie Kirk — Wear Red on October 14th

Tuesday, October 14th would have been Charlie Kirk’s 32nd birthday. As we remember his remarkable impact and unwavering dedication to faith, family, and freedom, we invite everyone to wear red in his honor.

Charlie inspired millions to stand boldly for their beliefs and to never back down in the face of opposition. Wearing red is a small but powerful gesture — a way to show unity, love, and continued support for the movement he helped build.

Please keep Erika Kirk and the entire Kirk family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. Let’s surround them with encouragement and gratitude for the legacy Charlie leaves behind.

Have You Mailed Back Your Ballot Yet?

The November election is underway, and this one is mail-in ballot only. Every voter in Maricopa County should have already received their ballot in the mail—and if you haven’t sent it back yet, now’s the time to do it! Each jurisdiction has different propositions and bond initiatives, so it’s important to review your ballot carefully before voting.

One measure that all Maricopa County voters will see is Proposition 409, a bond initiative for the Valleywise Health hospital network—our county hospital system. If approved, this bond will fund 200 new mental health beds, as well as expanded outpatient services, inpatient care, emergency treatment, and physician training.

Most importantly, Sheriff Jerry Sheridan and County Attorney Rachel Mitchell have both emphasized how these expanded mental health services could strengthen public safety. By providing additional treatment resources and even courtrooms within hospital facilities, Valleywise would help divert individuals in crisis away from jail when appropriate, reducing pressure on law enforcement and making both our jails and courtrooms safer for officers, staff, and the public alike.

In addition, many ballots across the Valley include Propositions 406 and 403, measures that would allow West-MEC (Western Maricopa Education Center) to expand its campuses and programs. West-MEC provides career and technical education (CTE) opportunities that prepare students for high-demand careers right out of high school. These programs have evolved far beyond traditional “shop” or “typing” classes—today, students can earn industry-recognized certifications that lead directly to good-paying, high-skill jobs. Supporting these programs helps create a pathway for young people to transition from students to successful, employed adults with bright futures.

Many school districts across Maricopa County also have bond or override measures on this ballot. If your district has a conservative and fiscally responsible governing board, consider voting in favor of these measures. Our population is growing rapidly, and as long as the majority of funds are directed toward classroom instruction rather than administrative overhead, these initiatives represent an investment in our community’s future.

Before casting your vote, you can learn more about how your district manages its finances by visiting its website or reviewing reports from the Arizona Auditor General at azauditor.gov.

Finally, several Valley cities and fire districts are asking voters to consider bonds for emergency services. Do your homework—determine whether these proposals represent a true need or a want. In Arizona, where fire risk is high year-round, it’s crucial to ensure our fire departments have the tools and resources necessary to keep our communities safe.

📬 Remember: The last day to mail your ballot is October 28th to ensure it arrives on time. You can also drop off your ballot at any official polling location by Election Day, November 4th.

Every vote matters—make your voice heard and help shape the future of your community!

Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap Speaks at Sun City West Republican Club

On October 4th, Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap spoke at the Sun City West

Republican Club, providing important updates on the upcoming November 4th

Jurisdictional Election and the ongoing challenges surrounding the Shared Services

Agreement (SSA) between county election departments.

Heap explained that mail-in ballots would be sent to every registered voter beginning

October 8th, emphasizing that this election is mail-in only. He stated this was a decision

by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. However, each jurisdiction appearing on

the ballot chooses what type of election they would like to pay for. The BOS approves of

their choice. Many local entities choose mail-only elections because they are more cost-

effective and simpler to administer. This process is authorized under Arizona Revised

Statutes (ARS) 16-409 and 16-558, which outline procedures for all-mail elections.

Heap also discussed the Shared Services Agreement (SSA)—a long-debated

intergovernmental agreement between the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office and the

Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Heap detailed how disagreements over the

SSA have created uncertainty about who holds ultimate authority and responsibility over

various election functions.

Heap stated that he wished he and the entire Board of Supervisors could sit down

together to openly discuss the agreement and resolve the differences directly. He stated

he wished the Board had not chosen Galvin and Brophy-McGee to be the ones he

would communicate with. Due to open meetings laws, Heap can only speak with two

Supervisors about the issue to avoid creating a quorum. However, because both sides

have now retained legal counsel, direct communication about the issue is no longer

permitted. All correspondence and discussions regarding the Shared Services

Agreement must now go through attorneys.

Heap expressed concerns about the IT department being a major sticking point in the

SSA negotiations. Earlier this year, the entire IT department that was previously under

the Recorder was moved under the County IT system. Heap stated he is now unable to

query his own system without creating a ticket, raising red flags about independence

and access. He emphasized that his IT resources are no longer separate from other

county servers, which he believes creates security and confidentiality concerns.

Comparatively it would be illogical for the County to pull the County Attorney’s IT

systems into the same network, as both offices handle sensitive and confidential

information that should remain secure and independent.

Despite the ongoing legal wrangling, Heap reassured attendees that a court ruling is

expected in November or December, which should clarify responsibilities and restore

confidence in the election process. The court will be defining the phrase “the Recorder

or other officer in charge of elections.” Once this phrase is “legally” defined, it will be a

matter of following the state statutes when dividing tasks between the Recorder and the

BOS for the SSA.

The Crisis in Nigeria: Why Are Christian Deaths Being Ignored?

More than 7,000 Christians have been killed and an additional 7,800 abducted in Nigeria in 2025 alone—and the year isn’t even over. These shocking numbers should be headline news, repeated daily across television, radio, and digital platforms. Yet, the global press remains largely silent. Where is the coverage? Why isn’t the world outraged?

A Dangerous Trend

Nigeria has never been a safe haven for Christians. For decades, believers have faced harassment, violence, and outright persecution from extremist groups such as Boko Haram and factions of militant Fulani herdsmen. But in 2025, there has been a disturbing uptick in violence—with more deaths and kidnappings reported than in previous years. Families have been ripped apart, entire villages destroyed, and churches burned to the ground.

The Global Silence

In an age when the media can report every detail of political scandals, celebrity gossip, or minor controversies, the question must be asked: Why is the slaughter of thousands of Christians not treated as a global emergency? These are not isolated incidents. They are systemic, targeted attacks against people of faith. Yet the story rarely breaks through to mainstream outlets, leaving many around the world unaware of the daily reality for Nigeria’s Christian population.

Why the Increase?

Several factors appear to be fueling the rise in violence:

Weak government response: Corruption, lack of enforcement, and poor security measures have left rural communities exposed.
Extremist expansion: Groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) continue to expand their influence and territory.
Global distraction: With international focus on wars, elections, and economic crises, Nigeria’s tragedy is being overlooked.
Targeted persecution: Christians remain a symbolic and vulnerable target for groups that want to destabilize regions and spread terror.

Why This Matters

Christians in America have grown complacent. We take for granted our freedom to worship and often treat it as a convenience rather than a privilege. Too many see reading Scripture, praying, or attending church as chores — or worse, choose to neglect a relationship with God altogether. Meanwhile, in other countries, believers risk their lives to gather in secret, walking miles to worship and memorizing Scripture in case their Bibles are confiscated by the government. We are blessed to live in a nation where faith can be practiced freely, but that freedom only endures if we exercise it. Our complacency threatens to erode what generations before us fought to preserve — the right to worship God without fear.

A Call to Action

The persecution of Christians in Nigeria is not just a local issue—it is a human rights crisis. The international community cannot remain silent. Faith leaders, humanitarian organizations, and everyday people must demand greater coverage, stronger diplomatic pressure, and real aid for those who are suffering.

The deaths of more than 7,000 Christians cannot simply be a footnote. The world has a moral obligation to act—and to speak out for those whose voices are being silenced by fear and violence.

Dysart Governing Board Focuses on Transparency, Child Safety, and Fiscal Accountability - I toured Dysart on October 7th

On October 6th, the Dysart Governing Board convened for its regularly scheduled meeting—though notably, Board Member Steve Skvara was not in attendance. The session included two important legal briefings from Attorney Jennifer MacLennan of Gust Rosenfeld PLC, as well as updates on the district’s financial standing and ongoing election matters.

Strengthening Child Safety Oversight

MacLennan’s first presentation focused on the new updates to Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 15-514, which now explicitly holds school board members accountable for the mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse. Board members listened attentively and asked thoughtful questions, underscoring that child safety remains a top priority in the Dysart Unified School District. The legal review clarified responsibilities and processes to ensure every child is protected, and that the board complies with the most recent state mandates.

Clarifying Open Meeting Law Responsibilities

MacLennan’s second presentation addressed Arizona’s Open Meeting Laws, following a concern raised at the previous meeting that a potential violation may have occurred. Her overview served as both a refresher and a reminder that transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust. She explained that violations of Open Meeting Laws can lead to financial penalties and even suspension of board members.

Fiscal Transparency and Public Access

The board also voted to approve the 2024–2025 financial report, which is now publicly available on the Arizona Auditor General’s website. This approval comes at an important time for residents preparing to vote on the Dysart bond and override measures this month through November. Accessing the report allows voters to see exactly how district funds are being managed before casting their ballots. Ballots began mailing on October 8th, and voters who have not yet received theirs are encouraged to contact the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office.

The Dysart Financial Services team was also recognized for their outstanding fiscal management, earning honors from both the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). These prestigious awards highlight Dysart’s continued commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in financial reporting. The recognition affirms that Dysart not only meets but exceeds the highest standards for school district financial practices nationwide.

Community Voices Support Education Funding

During Call to the Public, there were two speakers: Council Member Johnny Melton and Lisa Everett. Both commended Dysart’s leadership and continued excellence in education, while encouraging residents to vote “YES” on the bond and override to support teachers, students, and facility improvements that sustain Dysart’s “A”-rated district status.

Dysart Unified continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical governance, student safety, and fiscal responsibility—values that reflect the district’s dedication to students, parents, and the community it serves.

Dysart Unified School District Tour: A Showcase of Excellence in Education

Dysart Unified School District has done an amazing job showcasing its outstanding results and offering a firsthand look at how it achieves them. I recently signed up for one of their community tours, and it did not disappoint.

The day began at the Governing Board offices, where breakfast—beautifully prepared and served by the district’s talented Culinary Arts students—welcomed about 40 parents and community members. As we enjoyed the meal, we prepared to board the iconic yellow school bus that would take us on a journey to see, with our own eyes, the incredible programs and successes happening across the district.

Our Hosts

Our tour was hosted by a group of inspiring leaders: Superintendent Dr. John Croteau, Craig Mussi, Assistant Superintendent for Support Services; Dr. Shelley Isai, Assistant Superintendent for Education Services; Marydel Speidell, Assistant Superintendent for Business Services; and Steve Mattingly, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. Each of these dedicated administrators radiated pride as they shared insights about Dysart’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student growth.

We visited three schools—Dysart High School, Dysart Middle School, and El Mirage Elementary School—each offering a glimpse into the district’s holistic approach to education. From hands-on STEM projects and fine arts programs to character development initiatives and leadership opportunities, every stop reflected the same spirit of dedication: ensuring every student is equipped to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

Dysart High School

We were greeted by the band and cheerleaders at Dysart High School, whose energy and school pride were absolutely contagious. The school’s AVID program was one of the most impressive I’ve ever seen. Students work together in peer groups to tackle difficult concepts, especially in higher-level math, supporting one another through problem-solving and critical thinking. Beyond academics, the program prepares students for college success—teaching them how to apply for scholarships and plan their futures. The results speak for themselves: many students have already earned hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships this year alone.

Dysart Middle School

At Dysart Middle School, we saw a fresh and creative approach to student unity and belonging. Rather than grouping students solely by grade level, the school utilizes a house system—much like in Harry Potter! Each student belongs to a house that fosters teamwork, mentorship, and school pride. The hallways proudly display banners and framed photos that capture each house’s spirit, and the students loved pointing out their own pictures to visitors. This innovative model builds community and ensures every student feels seen and valued.

El Mirage Elementary

Our final stop was El Mirage Elementary School, a Title I school that consistently outperforms many others in the district. The school’s success starts at the top with Principal Rick Haney, whose leadership sets the tone for excellence. His commitment to both students and teachers creates a culture of determination and pride where everyone strives to do their best, every single day.

The Future is Bright

The tour concluded back at the Governing Board building with a delicious lunch, giving participants a chance to reflect on what we had seen. Everyone left inspired, a little tired, and overwhelmingly grateful to see firsthand that our future is in good hands. Dysart Unified is truly innovative, collaborative, and committed to preparing the next generation for success—both in school and in life.

LATEST FINANCIAL REPORTING

DYSART TOUR VIDEO

LINCOLN DAY LUNCH TICKETS

LD29’s Own Dave Goitia to Host Radio Show on KKNT 960

LD29’s own Dave Goitia will be on KKNT 960 AM at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 18th. Dave will be hosting “Jesus Asks: Are You Listening?” — a program that connects faith with today’s current events.

This inspiring show encourages listeners to look at the world through a Biblical lens and to strengthen their relationship with Jesus in everyday life. Tune in to support Dave and be reminded of the power of faith in action!

📻 KKNT 960 AM | October 18th at 2:00 PM

CLEAN COMEDY NIGHT

The West Valley Republican and Independent Coalition is excited to host a Clean Comedy Night Fundraiser on Friday, October 24th at 6:00 PM. The event will be held at Tyr Tactical, 9330 N. 92nd Ave., Peoria, AZ 85345. Tickets are just $33.85.

This will be a wonderful evening of fellowship, laughter, and community. It’s a chance to come together, enjoy good company, and support the work of WVRIC in a fun and uplifting way. We look forward to seeing you there!

Click the link below to purchase your tickets:

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY