Recent Mountain Pointe High School graduate Zakaria Mahmoud was named as the East Valley Institute of Technology’s Student of the Year.

In reality it’s a compliment but it probably wasn’t easy to hear.

The Kiwanis Tennis Center, which is located at 6111 S. All American Way, is hosting tennis lessons this summer.

A $70,000 grant from the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services will enhance Hospice of the Valley’s care for patients who are military veterans.

Summertime is full of fun, freedom and hot dogs and we don’t mean the kind you get at the ballpark! Although an exact number is difficult to find it is estimated that thousands of dogs die every year from heat-related causes. A little information and common sense can save lives.

Recently, I’ve had many cases involving dogs that have extremely high prey drives. Dogs have a natural instinct for hunting prey. Smell and motion of other animals will instantly attract a dog to their instinctive prey drive. Of course, with domesticated dogs, we feed them so they don’t have to hunt. To ensure your dog views your family cat as a “pack member” and NOT a “pack prey-toy,” follow the below simple tips:

Dear Mikey,

The Ahwatukee Community Network (ACN) is bringing passionate people together again, this time on the topic of children in foster care.

Sydney and Eryn Schmisseur found the sport of synchronized swimming somewhat serendipitously.

An anonymous donation is keeping the Phoenix gun buyback program going for one final Saturday, May 18.

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.

Tapioca is a very sweet dog, but takes some time to warm up to people. However, once she does she is very personable and loves to follow you around as well as curl up right next to you on a couch or bed. She is very smart and seems to understand the concept of potty training and just could use some further reinforcement. She also loves toys, especially Kongs or anything involving chewing. Tapioca is looking for a loving home with a family who will treat her right. She needs a family who doesn’t mind her taking time building confidence and trust. If you give Tapioca a chance, she’ll be the best companion you’ve ever had. She is a very sweet and playful dog.

It’s no secret that Arizona offers some of the best and most luxurious AAA Four and Five Diamond resorts in the country. However, many travelers don’t realize that many of these properties also feature kid camps that aim to please even the pickiest pint-sized traveler. This provides mom and dad with a guilt-free way to indulge in some much-needed couple time, while allowing kids to make friends and create memories of their own.

Travelers accustomed to chain eateries like Chili’s and Paradise Bakery now have a chance to experience local offerings such as Cowboy Ciao, La Grande Orange and Barrio Cafe at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

The Phoenix City Council will vote on the final draft of the city’s 2013-14 budget, which includes new efficiencies in the city’s public information office, parks and public transit, on May 21 but Councilman Sal DiCiccio says the city could have increased even more services if staff didn’t get any raises or bonuses.

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.

Lisa Spini has always had an eye for talent and 12 years ago, Stefani Catour caught her eye.

Horizon Honors will be hosting a Back-2-Basics Basketball Skills Camp June 24-28 at the school, 16233 S. 48th St.

By the time a client parks their car and walks up to the front doors of Harvest of Tempe, the southeast Valley’s only medical marijuana dispensary, he or she, their license plate, and their car have all been caught on camera.

It’s no secret to Realtors that fabulous kitchens sell homes. Improve the room used primarily for food preparation, and the entire house will feel homier to residents, guests and prospective buyers alike.

Last week, the Division I and II baseball state tournaments moved to spring training stadiums across the Valley.

Doria MeChelle is a teacher by day, salon owner by night, and once a month she flies across the country to do the hair of faithful clients. She wouldn’t have it any other way.

Dear Mikey,

Web-hosting giant Go Daddy announced Tuesday it will be expanding its operations in Arizona, adding 300 employees.

A group of Ahwatukee residents are preparing to hit the road and terrain of the Verde Valley north of Phoenix next weekend.