Patrick Duffy: Surprise City Council District 3 — February Newsletter
Patrick Duffy
City of Surprise
I have great news to share for residents who wanted to attend last year’s rained-out Backyard Bash – it has been rescheduled for this month! I am very excited to attend and see everyone in their 90’s gear. More information is included below! Thank you for taking the time to read about City updates and events shared in my newsletter.
CURRENT EVENTS
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Patrick Duffy: Surprise City Council District 3 — February Newsletter
Posted
Patrick Duffy
City of Surprise
By Patrick Duffy
I have great news to share for residents who wanted to attend last year’s rained-out Backyard Bash – it has been rescheduled for this month! I am very excited to attend and see everyone in their 90’s gear. More information is included below! Thank you for taking the time to read about City updates and events shared in my newsletter.
CURRENT EVENTS
Register for Surprise City Academy
Want to learn about the structure of city government, get updated on local issues and get to know your City leaders? Register for the 2026 Surprise City Academy!
This eight-session academy offers the opportunity to learn about the City of Surprise directly from the Mayor, Council Members, City Manager and senior-level City staff.
Begins February 23, 2026, and meets weekly through April 13, 2026. Most classes will meet Monday evenings from 6 - 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Surprise Public Safety Building, 14250 W. Statler Plz.
Participation is free, but space is limited. Registration is required by 5 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2026.
The City Academy application and additional information on the program can be found at surpriseaz.gov/CityAcademy.
The City of Surprise is hitting rewind and turning the volume all the way up for the first-ever Backyard Bash: 90s Edition presented by Toyota of Surprise — now happening Friday, February 6, from 5 - 9 p.m. at Mark Coronado Park, 15960 N. Bullard Ave.
This free, all-ages event is designed to bring the whole community together because the 90s deserve a proper comeback!
Whether you rocked flannel, battled it out on a game console or raised a digital pet, there’s something for everyone, including:
Half-pipe skate shows that’ll totally blow your scrunchies off
Mouthwatering local food trucks
A live DJ spinning your favorite 90s hits all night long
Gaming zone fun for kids and kids-at-heart
A totally tubular themed photo booth
Unique market vendors
Make sure to follow the Surprise Parks & Recreation DepartmentonFacebookandInstagram for exclusive sneak peeks, vendor highlights and behind-the-scenes looks leading up to the event!
LIVE at Asante is a free and casual outdoor performance series at Asante Library for all ages. This America’s 250th celebration series runs the third Thursday of each month through May 2026 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Asante Library, 16755 W. Vereda Solana Dr. Each event will feature a different genre and include a brief history of its importance in America’s music. Featuring live music provided by On Stage Now, free arts activities and food trucks! Bring your lawn chair, your friends and your family for an evening of entertainment. RSVP recommended at surpriseaz.gov/ArtsSignUp.
Upcoming Performances
February 19 | Bluegrass/Rock | Mark Bishop Evans (opener) and George & Georgia (headliner)
March 19 | Classic Jazz | Carlos Huicochea (opener) and Glen & Clydene (headliner)
April 16 | Modern American | Julia Gotto (opener) and 26 B4 40 (headliner)
May 21 | Rock & Roll | Daniel Holideigh (opener) and Faultline (headliner)
Fire First Fridays
The Surprise Fire-Medical Department is offering free life-saving knowledge and training. These classes aim to provide attendees with basic emergency response training in a comfortable and stress-free environment so community members will know how to start helping while waiting for emergency crews.
Stop the Bleed & Narcan Classes –Participants will learn the basic skills needed to save someone in the event of a deep-penetrating injury and the proper technique needed to deliver Narcan. Classes are on the first Friday of each odd-numbered month. The next class is on March 6.
CPR Classes –Take a free non-certifying CPR class. Participants will learn the basics of CPR, including chest compressions, AED use and rescue breathing. Classes are on the first Friday of each even-numbered month. The next session will be on April 3.
To register and get more information, visit surpriseaz.gov/FireFirstFridays. Please note, registration forms open two weeks before the class date. The maximum class size is 40 people for each session. Participants must be 12 years old or older, and a registered adult must accompany attendees aged 12 - 17.
Register for Mayor’s Literacy Challenge
Book lovers of all ages are invited to track reading minutes to earn fun prizes. The City of Surprise 2026 Mayor’s Literacy Challenge runs until February 14. Participants of all ages can register now as an individual or family.
Here’s a fun way to earn reading minutes. We have a collection of audio stories! Visit surprisepubliclibrary.gov/Stories and don’t forget to log these minutes after listening.
Landscape & Water Efficiency Workshops
Water Conservation classes are being offered to help residents understand desert adaptive plants and how to properly take care of them. Classes are held on Saturdays from January through May at Surprise Water Education Center, 16126 N. Civic Center Plz. Unless otherwise noted.
March 28 | Palm Trees: Selection & Care | 9 - 10:30 a.m.
April 4 | Xeriscape Garden Tour | 9 - 10 a.m.
May 2 | Xeriscape Garden Tour | 9 - 10 a.m.
Outdoor Art Sketching Tour
On Thursday, February 12, at 9 a.m. participants will explore public art outside at City Hall. Teaching artist, Rae Wilson will guide participants to create their own sketches, taking notice of the art and creativity all around us in a fun, low-stress, outdoor, judgement-free zone. This event is for all ages and skill levels. No prior experience is necessary to participate in this sketching tour, and sketchbooks and pencils will be provided. All youth must be accompanied by an adult at all times. To learn more about the Surprise Public Art Collection check out our Public Art Map.
This event takes place outdoors. Bring good walking shoes, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and water. We will be sitting on benches and grass, so dress appropriately to enjoy the relaxing experience outdoors.
The starting location for this event will be in the Arts HQ Gallery located at Surprise City Hall (16126 N. Civic Center Plz.)
My next community meeting will be on Saturday, March 7, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Total Wine and More, 13440 N Prasada Pkwy. See you there!
City Council Meetings
The next City Council Meeting is on February 17 at 6 p.m. The public is welcome to attend in person, or you can tune in on surpriseaz.gov/SurpriseTV, the City of Surprise Government Facebook page at facebook.com/CityOfSurprise or on Cox channel 11.
NEWS & UPDATES
Surprise Libraries Celebrating Semiquincentennial with Reading Program
The Surprise Public Library System reading program in celebration of America’s 250th – Stars & Stories – is still going strong! It runs until July 4, 2026.
Readers will be awarded fun badges and prizes, based on minutes read. The goal is to read 1,776 minutes in honor of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Prizes include books, American flags, challenge coins and patriotic swag!
The City of Surprise has numerous opportunities to participate in events and activities until the big anniversary on July 4, 2026. Learn about all the great events at surpriseaz.gov/America250.
Free Block Party Trailer Rentals Available
What better way to get to know your neighbors than by throwing a great party? Surprise offers free rentals of a Block Party Trailer, and we’ll even deliver it to you!
The block party trailer includes chairs, tables, coolers, canopy tents, sports equipment, games, music and public announcement system and a generator. City staff will deliver the trailer and be present during the event.
Applicants may also receive a reimbursement of up to $150 that can be used toward qualifying expenses to help pay for food or party amenities and entertainment. Approved applicants will receive a Block Party Kit, which includes flyers to help spread the word about your party.
Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance and are granted on a first come, first served basis. Once approved, you can start planning your party!
City Expands Partnership to Help More Families Secure Affordable Healthcare
The City of Surprise’s Human Service & Community Vitality Department continually seeks opportunities to better meet the needs of our community members. Recently, they partnered with Helping Families in Need (HFIN) to expand appointment opportunities for local families who need assistance in gaining and navigating healthcare coverage options.
The organization assists community members with applying for AHCCCS, SNAP, Marketplace (Affordable Care Act) and other health-related resources.
New Appointment Hours: Surprise Resource Center, 12425 W. Bell Rd., Ste 124 Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fridays | 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Surprise Senior Center, 15832 N. Hollyhock St.
Saturdays | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Appointments are required for services. To schedule, please contact Helping Families in Need at 1.800.298.4346.
Participants are asked to have the following documentation available for their appointment:
Proof of income for the last 30 days
Driver’s license
Social Security Cards for all family members
Proof of citizenship
All utility bills
Recent rental agreement or mortgage payment receipt
A letter from someone who knows you, confirming who lives with you (list your address, their address, their name and phone number)
For more information about the resources available through Helping Families in Need, visit hfinaz.com.
Surprise City Hall Adds Self-service Passport Photo Booth
A new, self-service passport photo booth is now available inside City Hall. Residents and visitors who need a high‑quality passport photo now have a fast and convenient new option near the City Clerk’s Office where the City’s other passport services are housed.
Payment is quick and easy using the card reader inside the booth. The system accepts all major credit cards, as well as tap-to-pay options. The photos cost about $15.
For a small additional cost of $5, customers may also choose to have a digital copy of their passport photo emailed directly to them. This option is ideal for customers who are renewing their passports online, saving time and eliminating the need for additional photos.
Currently, the booth can only be used by adults and children who can sit independently inside a small enclosed raised booth with a height-adjustable seat. The booth cannot accommodate infant passport photos.
For more information about passport services at Surprise City Hall, visit surpriseaz.gov/Passport or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 623.222.1200.
Left Turn Arrow PSA
The City of Surprise is launching a campaign to remind drivers to yield on flashing yellow arrow traffic signals.
These signals feature a flashing yellow arrow in addition to the standard red, yellow and green arrows. When illuminated, the flashing yellow arrow allows waiting motorists to make a left-hand turn after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk. They are designed to help with traffic flow, creating more opportunities to make a left turn with the flashing yellow left-turn arrow than with the traditional three-arrow, red, yellow and green indications.
While flashing yellow arrows can increase traffic flow, it is important that drivers wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before turning. That is why the City is launching an educational campaign with the slogan, “When the yellow arrow flashes, yield to avoid crashes.”
The campaign includes a Public Service Announcement and new road signs that will be placed in medians approaching 10 intersections throughout Surprise where flashing yellow traffic signals are used.
Spring Training games are back! With 31 games on the schedule and two World Baseball Classic exhibition matchups added to the lineup, fans can look forward to an exciting mix of MLB talent, rising stars and international competition. Opening day is February 20 and games run through March 21.
Also look forward to the MLB Spring Breakout event on March 20, featuring the Kansas City Royals vs. Texas Rangers. This special game will showcase the next generation of Major League talent, highlighting baseball’s brightest prospects.
Individual game tickets for Spring Training at Surprise Stadium on sale online at SurpriseStadium.com
Additional details regarding the upcoming season including promotional schedules, special events and ticket offers can be found at SurpriseStadium.com.
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Appointments
Surprise has officially moved the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Program to a monthly appointment system. Surprise residents can request an appointment for HHW collection pickup right from their driveway during one week each month.
The collection of these materials is split into two types and scheduled separately. One pick-up is for electronic HHW, including flat-screen TVs, computers and cell phones. Another is for all other HHW.
To schedule a collection, residents can use the My Surprise app or call customer service at 623.222.1920. All scheduling is based on availability and is first-come, first-served.
Out of the Park Music Fest
Save the date for the 2026 Out of the Park Music Fest on the final day of Spring Training in Surprise, featuring Multi-Platinum country music star Russell Dickerson and chart-topping artist Niko Moon! Additional artists and local acts will be announced soon!
The annual event returns to Mark Coronado Park (15850 N. Bullard Ave.) on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 2 - 10 p.m.
Registration Now Open for 8th Annual Spring Training 5k & 1K Fun Run
The City of Surprise and Surprise Stadium are excited to announce that registration is officially open for the 8th Annual Spring Training 5K & 1K Fun Run.
Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Palm Valley Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, runners will get to cruise through the Spring Training home of the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals, soaking in the energy and ballpark views you can’t get anywhere else.
Register now to take advantage of the discounted rates; 5K: $30 and 1K: $15. Early registration ends on March 5, and then prices increase to 5K: $40 and 1K: $20.
All registered participants will receive a commemorative finisher medal, race T-shirt and a buy-one-get-one-free Spring Training lawn ticket voucher.
Design Contest Now Open for 2026 Surprise Public Library System Card
Submit a design by April 3, in the America 250 category and/or one of three age categories: Youth (10 and under), Teen (11-17) and Adult (18 and over). One winner will be chosen from each category.
Winners will be selected in May 2026 and will be recognized at a City Council meeting.
CONTEST RULES:
Entrants (or guardian of entrant) must be a Surprise Public Library System cardholder.
All artwork must be original, previously unpublished and free of copyright restrictions.
Both horizontal and vertical designs will be considered.
Artwork can include computer generated or digital photographic submissions or paper submissions using colored pencil, pen, paint, markers, etc.
Upon submission, entrants grant the Surprise Public Library System all rights to the artwork and consents that all artwork may be displayed and/or reproduced without limitation and without compensation.
Limit one (1) entry per person. Do not include your name in the artwork.
By email to library@surpriseaz.gov (If selected, winner will be asked to provide original artwork.)
For questions about the library card design contest, please email library@surpriseaz.gov or call 623.222.2900.
Sign Up Now for “Alert Surprise,” the City’s New Emergency Notification System
The City of Surprise has launched Alert Surprise, a new text, email and/or voice call emergency notification system powered by Smart911. The system allows for one-way direct communication from the City to subscribers in potentially life-threatening situations. It’s a free service designed to keep those who live, work or visit Surprise informed and connected when it matters most.
Through Alert Surprise, subscribers can choose to add address information to receive targeted emergency alerts based on locations they choose, such as home, work or school.
Registration is simple and secure. Follow the instructions at surpriseaz.gov/AlertSurprise, or download the Smart911 app in the Google Play or Apple App Store to create a personalized safety profile. Once registered, users can customize how they receive alerts, manage multiple addresses and ensure their information is up to date.
To quickly sign up for text alerts ONLY, opt-in by texting the word SURPRISE to 67283. Please note that online signups at surpriseaz.gov/AlertSurprise allow for more notification options and account preferences.
This emergency alert service is provided by the City of Surprise at no cost to the public; however, message and data rates may apply depending on your provider and phone services. Please refer to your mobile phone's service plan for details.
Looking for somewhere fun for your kids to spend their spring break? The City of Surprise Parks & Recreation Department is excited to offer a one-week Spring Break Camp for youth currently enrolled in kindergarten - 7thgrade. Campers will enjoy daily activities, arts and crafts, games, and sports!
Spring Break Camp runs March 16 - 20; Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. at Sierra Montana Recreation Center - 14861 N. Spring Ln.
Surprise resident registration is open now!
$30 per day | $10 per child registration fee
Non-resident registration begins: February 9
$34 per day | $30 per child registration fee
To download a registration packet, visit surpriseaz.gov/BreakCamps. Your completed packet must be submitted to the Parks & Recreation Office (15960 N. Bullard Ave.) to finalize registration. Office hours are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m
The program will fill quickly, so please register early to ensure a spot!
Surprise Commemorates 10th Anniversary of MLK Day of Celebration & Service with New Scholarship
The City announced the launch of a new scholarship program in honor of the event’s 10th anniversary.
The City of Surprise Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program is designed to support local, college-bound students graduating in spring 2026 by helping offset the cost of pursuing higher education at an accredited college, university or trade school.
Scholarships will be awarded at the discretion of the MLK Scholarship Subcommittee in increments of $500.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Plan to attend an accredited college, university or trade school on a full-time basis in the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.
Applicants must submit the following:
Proof of residency (current Arizona Driver’s License, copy of most recent utility bill, vehicle registration, etc.)
One letter of reference from a business leader, non-profit leader, community leader, government employee or elected official.
One letter of reference from a school leader (teacher, administrator, counselor, coach, etc.). Homeschool students may submit a letter of reference from teachers, coaches or leaders of extracurricular activities.
Must attend a high school located in Surprise and submit an unofficial copy of your most recent high school transcript demonstrating an unweighted grade point average (GPA) at or above 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Complete a 500-750-word essay: Explain how the life, activities and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. have influenced you.
Complete a questionnaire (in the application).
In-person interview with the MLK Scholarship subcommittee
All applications and supporting documents must be received by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026. Scholarship award winners will be notified by April 24, 2026.
For full details on the MLK scholarship program, including application information, visit surpriseaz.gov/MLKScholar.
If you have questions about the scholarship, including requirements for homeschool students, or are interested in donating to support the City of Surprise Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program, please call 623.222.1034 or email kara.poling@surpriseaz.gov.
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