Well, Arizona, are you ready for the New Year?
Even though it’s cold and rainy today—sorry, all of you Fiesta Bowl attendees—we’re taking it as a good sign, washing away the past to start over again, fresh and clean. Fresh starts are one of our favorite things about the work we do. We enjoy the times when we get to help others, lend them support when they’re struggling, and give them a chance to get back up on their own two feet.
Over the past year, our state has been at the forefront of many social issues, from Veterans’ healthcare to officer and civilian shootings. We’ve had plenty to be proud of, but there are definitely things that we need to improve. We urge you to stay informed and get involved: Arizona is your state; it’s your home. We had the incredible opportunity this past year to get involved with local Veterans who’ve run into trouble with the law. We took a hard look at how our legal system approaches these individuals and the specific problems they face, and we are hopeful that 2015 will see the establishment of more Veterans Courts across the Valley. If you haven’t had a chance already, consider getting to know a Veteran this upcoming year. Let them know you care about them and value the sacrifices that they have made for our country and for others around the world.
We also want you to be healthy and safe during 2015. We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: make sure you that you have a sober driver if you’re drinking. There are so many exciting events coming up in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and other local cities, including the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Barrett Jackson auction, and the 49th Super Bowl. We want these to be great memories for you, your friends, and your families. Please be careful tonight and through the rest of the weekend as you celebrate. The Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports that there were nearly 27,000 DUI arrests in 2014, and the Holiday DUI Task Force will still be out patrolling the roads for New Year’s.
Cheers to a joyous 2015! Happy New Year, everyone!