The Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits (Alliance) and Arizona Grantmakers Forum (AGF) awarded $179,500 in prizes to 40 nonprofits who participated in Arizona Gives Day at a reception on May 2.

American journalism has disgraced itself in the matter of the Benghazi terrorist attack.

Mini and Smokey are a bonded pair of 12-year-old pure bred Pomeranians who were surrendered by their owners who could no longer care for them. Mini is a very outgoing girl who likes to play with toys and do twirls and jump into your arms. Smokey is more reserved and timid and depends on Mini for everything. He follows her wherever she goes, lays where she lays and really needs her. Smokey has alopecia, a skin condition that is common for Poms which causes them to lose their hair, but otherwise he is healthy. Both babies are snuggle bunnies and love to be held. Both are kennel and leash trained. Even though they are approximately 12 they do not act their age. They MUST go to the same home.

Mady is an extremely beautiful and sweet, 1-year-old petite Dilute Tortoiseshell cat. She came to Lost Our Home Pet Foundation with six newborn kittens who all found homes.

Brown is a sweet and quiet Sealpoint Siamese. He’s a beautiful and affectionate middle-aged male who loves to be petted, and craves a stress-free household after the passing of his owner. He is fixed, tested, and has all his shots.

Along with Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises,” “Iron Man 3” is one of the rare superhero threequels that doesn’t disappoint. While Jon Favreau remains an executive producer and co-star, he passes on the directorial duties to Shane Black of “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.” Black maintains all the action, humor, and character development that made Faverau’s first two films so enjoyable, while also incorporating his own unique signature. His film continues to raise the stakes and pushes its characters to their critical limits. In addition, “Iron Man 3” makes some hilarious commentary on the media’s role in terrorism with several inspired twist. The result is the darkest of the “Iron Man” trilogy and, ironically, the funniest.

Scooter is a very lively 10-year-old Beagle. Scooter is good with other dogs, but will give a warning growl if another four-legged friend gets too close to his sleeping space. He’s recently been able to show off some of my awesome agility skills, so if that’s something you’d like to work more with him on, you’d be a perfect match. He really enjoys running through tunnels, climbing up ladders, and running down slides, even more so if rewarded with a treat or just a good belly rub. Scooter is extremely affectionate and loves to be loved.

On May 5, 1862, a rag-tag force of vastly outnumbered Mexican soldiers held off well-provisioned French troops backed by heavy artillery in a battle to defend Mexican sovereignty.

Molly and Prince, a brother and sister duo, are two beautiful 3-year-old long-haired white and grey cats who were rescued from a foreclosed home. They are a bit shy at first but love to be petted and groomed.

Pet rescue groups across the Valley are coming together with a three-year initiative to solve the problem of pet homelessness by fixing, adopting and saving Valley pets.

Arizona State University’s Project Humanities is presenting “An Evening with Riva Yares” April 24 as part of the Project Humanities spring kick-off series, “Heroes, Superheroes, and Superhumans.”

Cherokee is a 5-year-old parti-colored purebred Pomeranian. He has a stunning long coat and great teeth. Cherokee is very social and playful, he loves children, is great with other dogs but not cats. He is housebroken, although, he needs a refresher course in potty training. He listens well and is a talker in return. He also great on a leash. Cherokee weighs 10 pounds, is neutered, current on vaccinations and has a microchip.

Bandit is a male terrier mix about 30 pounds and 3 years old. He was rescued from the Yuma Humane Society along with four other dogs he lived with. Their owner died and the remaining family was unable to care for them. When Bandit came to Friends for Life Animal Rescue his fur was in horrible shape. His adoptive family should keep in mind that to keep him adorable looking he’ll need to be regularly groomed. It is believed Bandit is housetrained since he was living in a home, but this has not yet been confirmed as he resides at the shelter vs. in a foster home.

This champagne orange cat named Tang seeks a new life and new home to play in. He’s packed his squeaking toy mouse and is ready for a new adventure. I

A poster advertising an upcoming event at Stand Up Scottsdale reads “Drink Specials ... We’re gonna need 'em” — and they just might.

Spring is in the air and the desert is entering its cycle of new life. However, for the Ahwatukee community, that could mean more than seasonal allergies.

Kallie is 11 years young! She would love to live in a house where she can sit on her human’s lap or next to them while watching TV. During the day, all Kallie needs is a pillow to rest her head on and wait for you to return home from work. She is a very quiet Beagle girl and will melt your heart. She gets along well with other dogs and children.

Spurred by the pleas of a widow of a Department of Public Safety officer, Gov. Jan Brewer signed legislation Friday to ensure that survivors of fallen police officers and others have taxpayer-provided health insurance for as long as they need.

Local animal shelters have enough camps to keep any animal lover engaged and learning this summer.

Lily, a 3-year-old Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix, was rescued recently from the e-list. Lily loves going for short walks and gets really excited when she sees her leash by spinning in circles.

Elliott, a 2-year-old white Tabby male cat, was rescued after being abandoned at an elementary school. Lost Our Home Pet Foundation found him a home, but unfortunately his owner lost her home and was forced to move to another state to live with relatives who are allergic to cats. Elliott is extremely affectionate, playful and is good with other cats, dogs and older kids.

Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the Phoenix Fire Department are already working to get kids ready for summer with reminders about staying safe around water.

Sweet and playful declawed Liliko is lonely and craves a new home with attention. She’s declawed, fixed, tested, and has all her shots.

It’s that time of year again! Friends for Life Animal Rescue is accepting donations for its annual yard sale that will be happening April 5-7 at the shelter, 143 W. Vaughn Ave. in downtown Gilbert.