🌱 Homicide Spike + City's 10 Scariest People + Afghan Refugees

Rise and shine, Phoenix! Let's get you all caught up to start this Saturday off on an informed note. Here's what's going on today in Phoenix.

First, today's weather:

Plenty of sunshine and warmer. High: 91 Low: 68.

Here are the top stories today in Phoenix:

1. Refugee resettlement offices in Phoenix are are working around the clock to help Afghan refugees. Information continues to change on which services can be provided to the refugees, but they are now eligible for food stamps and financial aid, in addition to help with housing and job preparation. (AZ Big Media)
2. In 2020, the United States saw the biggest one year increase in homicides in a century, and Arizona helped contribute to that spike. Federal analysts called the spike "remarkable." Previously, the largest spike was due to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. (Phoenix Patch)
3. Phoenix-area chef Jorge Gomez brings the spice of Mexican culture into many of his dishes, whether they're Italian, American or Asian. He was inspired by his grandparents to begin cooking at an early age and wants to ensure that workers in his restaurants who have roots in Mexico are connected to their heritage and that restaurant patrons know the inspiration behind his dishes. (Phoenix Patch)
4. To get in the spooky October spirit, take a lighthearted look at Phoenix's 10 scariest people. Included on the list are Mayor Kate Gallego and ABC 15 investigative journalist Dave Biscobing. (Phoenix Magazine)

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Today around Phoenix:

• I Recycle PHX — Keep Phoenix Beautiful. (7 a.m.)
• Visit Mesa Launches Aira, guided visual interpretation services. (9 a.m.)
• Transformation Coach Justin Thorstad hosts Two-Day Mindshift workshop. (9 a.m.)
• Autism Speaks Walk. (9 a.m.)
• ProShred Shred Saturdays. (9 a.m.)
• Chanoyu — Experience the Way of Tea - Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix. (10 a.m.)
• Virtual guided tour of Persia — Arizona Persian Cultural Center. (5:30 p.m.)
• Drinks from Around the World — Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. (7 p.m.)

Phoenix Patch Notebook

• Phoenix Police Department: "Domestic abuse may be different for everyone. It does not always just involve physical abuse. Don’t ignore signs that may in fact be abusive behavior." (Facebook)
• City of Phoenix, AZ USA: "Teaching kids about National #PedestrianSafetyMonth can be fun and done creatively! Our free pedestrian safety book will help teach your little ones how to safely navigate #PHX. It's available in English & Spanish!" (Facebook)
• Phoenix Public Library: "Discover Scholastic Teachables, an online database of tens of thousands of searchable and printable educational materials. Created by teachers and precisely leveled, the high-quality, ready-to-use resources support parents preparing kindergarten readiness, homeschool teachers and learners from Pre-K to grade 6, and young students who need extra skills practice. Check it out for free today with your Phoenix Public Library card." (Facebook)

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You're officially in the loop for today. See you all tomorrow for another update! If you're loving these newsletters, consider inviting some of your friends and neighbors to read along. You can send them this link to subscribe.

— Caitlin Sievers

About me: I'm a passionate writer and photographer who worked as a reporter and editor for various publications in the Midwest before landing in Phoenix. I have seven roommates. Four of them are cats. Contact me at caitlin.sievers@patch.com with story ideas and feedback.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Phoenix Daily? Reach out anytime to caitlin.sievers@patch.com.