Sausser Summers, PC

Providing U.S. trademark services throughout the U.S. and across the globe.

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Trademark Attorney Working With Clients in Mesa, AZ

If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.

This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.

So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Mesa, AZ.

At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.

Sausser Summers, PC: Simplifying the U.S. Trademark Process

Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.

Using a trademark attorney for filing in Mesa, AZ, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.

At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.

In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:

1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.

2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.

3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.

The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

The bottom line?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

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Do I Really Need a Trademark Attorney for Protecting My Business in Mesa, AZ?

It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.

The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.

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Call us (843) 654-0078

Additional Benefits of Using a Trademark Attorney

Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:

Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.

Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.

Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.

Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.

Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.

Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.

Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.

Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.

What About Online Filing Services?

Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Mesa, AZ.

Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.

In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.

For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.

Understanding Trademarks Over Time

Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Mesa, AZ can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.

The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.

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Steps to Renew Your Trademark

Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.

During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.

After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.

It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.

By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Mesa, AZ, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Abandonment

In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Inappropriate Licensing

In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.

How to Avoid Having to Refile Your Trademark

If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.

To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.

It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.

Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.

What Makes an Online Trademark Attorney Great?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.

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It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.

When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.

Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.

In summary:

Be sure you're using a licensed trademark attorney helping clients in Mesa, AZ.
It's best to work with a trademark lawyer who has years of experience filing trademarks.
Ensure that your trademark lawyer is willing to provide ongoing notifications relating to your trademark application process.

Trademark Attorneys Working Hard for You

Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.

If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.

Gulfstream Aerospace opens new $130 million facility in Mesa

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. today announced the official opening of its newest customer support service center at Mesa Gateway Airport in Mesa, Arizona. To mark the occasion, state and local dignitaries, community partners, and Gulfstream leaders and employees gathered for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to formally welcome customers to the new Mesa Service Center.MORE NEWS: 12 Ariz...

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Gulfstream has invested more than $130 million in the 225,000-square-foot/20,908-square-meter maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Mesa, which was originally announced in 2021. To meet customer demand ahead of Mesa Service Center’s completion, Gulfstream opened a facility and began offering service in 2022, adding more hangar space in the fall of 2023. Mesa Service Center can accommodate up to 13 large-cabin Gulfstream aircraft simultaneously with the capability to support maintenance and avionics services, inspections and drop-in support for all Gulfstream models. This is in addition to Gulfstream’s existing Mesa west campus, which can hold up to 10 large- and mid-cabin aircraft.

“The opening of Gulfstream’s new Mesa Service Center aligns with our strategic vision to provide the industry’s most modern service network, sustainably designed to serve our customers where and when they need us,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Thanks to the investments we’ve made in workforce development and on-the-job training, our Mesa team is well prepared to offer customers based in the Western United States and those traveling through the region the same high-quality service and safety measures that they have experienced across our worldwide network.”

Gulfstream’s Mesa operations have already brought more than 250 new jobs to the region, with an additional 100 more expected this year. To help develop the workforce of the future, Gulfstream has partnered with local educational institutions to offer training including apprenticeship and internship programs.

The new service center is expected to receive U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification later this year. The facility was designed to support Gulfstream’s commitment to sustainability and was built to operate with enhanced environmental efficiency through recycled, regional and lower emissions materials, as well as solutions to reduce power and water consumption, redirect construction waste to recycling, and optimize energy performance. Additionally, Gulfstream’s Mesa campus features an on-site fuel farm that includes a 30,000-gallon tank dedicated to storing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blends.

Gulfstream Customer Support’s extensive service network also includes modernized facilities in Van Nuys, California; Appleton, Wisconsin; Fort Worth, Texas; Palm Beach, Florida; Farnborough, England; and the recently completed Savannah Service Center East.

Inspired by the belief that aviation could fuel business growth, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. invented the first purpose-built business aircraft, the Gulfstream I, which first flew in 1958. Today, more than 3,200 aircraft are in service around the world. Together with parent company General Dynamics, Gulfstream consistently invests in the future, dedicating resources to researching and developing innovative new aircraft, technologies and services. With a fleet that includes the super-midsize Gulfstream G280, the record-setting Gulfstream G650 and Gulfstream G650ER, and a next-generation family of aircraft including the category-leading Gulfstream G400, the award-winning Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G600, the ultralarge-cabin Gulfstream G700 and the ultralong-range Gulfstream G800, Gulfstream offers an aircraft for every mission. All are backed by the worldwide Gulfstream Customer Support network. Learn more at gulfstream.com.

Let ‘Em Soar! Urban Air Adventure Park Coming to Mesa, AZ

MESA, Ariz., Jan. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Urban Air Adventure Park, the largest indoor adventure park operator in the world and part of the youth enrichment growth-focused platform Unleashed Brands, has signed a lease agreement to bring a new park location and next-level entertainment to Mesa. The park is expected to officially open its doors in 2026.

Urban Air Mesa will provide excellent customer service and a safe, affordable experience for all ages, seven days a week. With more than 40,000 square feet of space, the new adventure park offers a full line-up of activities, such as Sky Rider, slides, air court, ropes course, climbing walls, dodgeball, trampolines and more.

“We know families are looking for ways to spend more time together, and as the premier destination for family fun and adventure, we’re thrilled to bring our park experience to even more families in Mesa,” said Unleashed Brands’ Chief Development Officer Ryan Slemons. “Each park is equipped with unique and patented attractions, giving families a one-of-a-kind experience and allowing them to be active, soar to new heights, and reach new limits, all while having fun and making memories.”

Urban Air Mesa will employ approximately 70 local residents for its newest location and will begin accepting applications soon. Residents can track the site progress of Urban Air Mesa Facebook and sign up for updates, coupon offers and view the park’s various attractions on the Urban Air Mesa.

This year, Urban Air ranked as the No. 1 entertainment franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Annual Franchise 500 list, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking.

To learn more about Urban Air and its franchising opportunities, visit https://urbanairfranchise.com/.

About Urban Air Adventure Park Urban Air Adventure Park is the Nation’s #1 destination for family fun, featuring a variety of attractions perfect for all ages. The award-winning national franchise brand is the largest adventure park operator in the world with more than 330 locations open or in development. Urban Air, founded in 2011, was in search of a higher purpose to help kids have fun while achieving activity goals that enhance their social and physical skills. For more information visit www.UrbanAir.com.

About Unleashed Brands Unleashed Brands currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, The Little Gym, Sylvan Learning, Snapology, XP League, Class 101 and Premier Martial Arts. It was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play, and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every kid by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help them become who they are destined to be. For more information, please visit UnleashedBrands.com.

Mesa, AZ, Is a Leader in Accessible Travel, and That’s Great News for Baseball Fans

in paid partnership withIs Mesa, Arizona, the most accessible spring training destination? Home to the Chicago Cubs during spring training, Mesa’s Sloan Park is rated in the top three ballparks in the US for accessibility. That makes it a major attraction for baseball fans of all abilities. But having one of the nation’s most inclusive stadiums isn’t even Mesa’s biggest draw for travelers with disabilities.Arizona’s third-larg...

in paid partnership with

Is Mesa, Arizona, the most accessible spring training destination? Home to the Chicago Cubs during spring training, Mesa’s Sloan Park is rated in the top three ballparks in the US for accessibility. That makes it a major attraction for baseball fans of all abilities. But having one of the nation’s most inclusive stadiums isn’t even Mesa’s biggest draw for travelers with disabilities.

Arizona’s third-largest city is both the first-ever Autism Certified City and an Aira Access Partner (a service that connects visually impaired travelers with sighted guides). It’s also the first city to receive Wheel the World’s prestigious Destination Verified Seal.

A platform dedicated to accessible travel, Wheel the World analyzes more than 200 features at various locations so that all travelers can be sure the destination will meet their needs. Careful mapping of hotels and attractions to verify their accessibility details eliminates the biggest obstacle in disability travel: the need for accurate information. Verified locations are listed on destination pages like the one for Mesa, complete with thorough information including an accessibility features checklist and photos. Many of those verified locations can then be booked directly from the Wheel the World site for a stress-free experience.

Here’s how to plan your perfect spring training getaway in Mesa, with inclusive experiences, dining, and accommodations to complement a day at the ballpark.

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First thing’s first: Getting to Mesa, accessibly

Photo: Valley Metro

Accessible travel in Mesa starts with easy arrival options. Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), both of which have accessible terminals, facilities, wheelchair assistance, and TSA Cares, a program designed to help travelers with disabilities navigate airport security.

Mesa’s light rail system provides seamless travel through downtown and beyond, and it’s an easy Sky Train ride from PHX. The light rail features level boarding, secure wheelchair spaces, and priority seating in addition to audio announcements and Braille features.

For additional travel options, Valley Metro buses, accessible shuttles, and accessible trip-planning tools make it simple to explore Mesa and the greater Phoenix area.

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Next up: Spring training

Photo: Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs

Baseball fans, welcome to your home away from home. Sloan Park combines the best of Chicago’s Wrigley Field with Arizona’s sunny warmth. From deep-dish pizza to the unmistakable camaraderie of Cubs fans, this stadium truly captures the Windy City spirit.

It also captures the spirit of inclusivity. Sloan Park is thoughtfully designed with moveable lounge seating, accessible seating options near lifts or elevators throughout the ballpark, accessible ticket windows, and accommodations for personal care attendants. Wheelchair-accessible shuttle services are offered continuously from the parking lot — before, during, and after the game. Wheelchair service is also available for those needing assistance to and from their seats. What’s more, there are single-occupancy family restrooms located throughout Sloan Park, as well as allergy-friendly options at a number of food stands.

Sloan Park is a proud partner and distributor of Visit Mesa’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, striving to provide an accommodating environment for all fans with accessibility needs. It’s more than just a ballpark — it’s the landmark behind a seamless spring training experience where all are welcome to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.

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Beyond the ballpark: Accessible adventures in Mesa

Photo: Visit Mesa

Baseball is just the beginning of your Mesa adventure. Thanks to Wheel the World’s verification process, you can enjoy accessible attractions including museums, outdoor experiences, and more.

With exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to Mesoamerican artifacts, the Arizona Museum of Natural History makes learning about the Southwest both engaging and accessible with a step-free entrance, elevators, and easy wheelchair views. Meanwhile, the wide pathways and accessible displays at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum provide a great option for aviation fans. Similar accessibility features at the Superstition Mountain Museum mean it’s a must for anyone who wants to dive deep into Arizona’s rugged history, while the Goldfield Ghost Town’s accessible shops, rest areas, and paths invite everyone to appreciate Mesa’s Old West charm.

For a memorable outdoor adventure, look no further than the Dolly Steamboat. You’ll cruise along Canyon Lake on a wheelchair-accessible boat, with panoramic desert views that are truly something to behold.

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Meal time: Mesa’s most inclusive restaurants

Photo: Visit Mesa

There’s no need to sacrifice great food if you’re visiting Mesa with special mobility needs. The city’s dining scene caters to all kinds of tastes while prioritizing accessibility through everything from wheelchair-friendly seating to inclusive menus and dietary accommodations.

Start your day at Jarrod’s Coffee, Tea, & Gallery, a coffee shop and arty hangout with an inclusive layout and a calm atmosphere. When it’s time for your first meal of the day, head to T.C. Eggington’s, a favorite breakfast and brunch spot in Mesa for nearly 40 years. It has accessible dining and can accommodate special dietary needs. Mellow Mushroom, an eclectic pizza shop serving one-of-a-kind pies, also has vegan and gluten-free options. But when it comes to allergy-friendly, Intentional Foods does it best. The hybrid cafe and market promises clean, safe, and transparent goodies, plus assistance for visually disabled visitors.

If burgers and brews are more your speed during a spring-training trip to Mesa, the city has disability-friendly options to satisfy that craving, too. 12 West Brewing serves craft beer and pub grub in a wheelchair-accessible, autism-certified space. Elsewhere, near the Arizona Museum of Natural History, the Chupacabra Taproom stocks a fine selection of craft beer and wine from all over the world, and you’ll appreciate its accessible dining area with wide aisles.

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Where to stay: A hotel for every need

Photo: Visit Mesa

Mesa takes the stress out of booking your stay. The city has 10 Wheel the World-verified hotels with amenities like roll-in showers, shower chairs, low bed heights, elevators, and accessible common areas. Be sure to filter your search by your specific room needs. You can even see detailed measurements for doors, sinks, light switches, and more.

One of the most convenient options is Four Points by Sheraton at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. It has accessible suites with features like accessible tubs and visual fire alarms. Courtyard by Marriott Mesa at Wrigleyville West also has accessible tubs and visual disability guidance, as well as a pool lift — a feature shared by the Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa, Holiday Inn Phoenix-Mesa/Chandler, and Home2 Suites By Hilton Mesa Longbow among other accessible elements like the roll-in showers found at the latter two properties.

Another reason you might choose Mesa’s Holiday Inn is the low beds with space underneath. You’ll find free space under the bed at Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Mesa as well, along with a roll-in shower and portable shower seat. Meanwhile, Hyatt Place Phoenix/Mesa’s accessible design includes features like roll-under sinks, bedside light switches, and handheld shower heads.

Whichever property you choose, you’ll be able to access detailed information on its accessibility offerings, allowing you to book with confidence. When you book through Wheel the World, you’re guaranteed to stay in the accessible room you requested, or you get your money back — plus, the platform will price-match if you find the same room listed for less somewhere else.

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Mesa: A model for accessible travel

From its top-rated ballpark to its inclusive attractions and accommodations, Mesa exemplifies what it means to be an inclusive destination. And with Wheel the World as your trusted guide, you can confidently plan a trip that combines fun, adventure, and accessibility. Ready to book? Start planning your dream spring training vacation to Mesa now.

Mesa's school superintendent makes 'heartbreaking' decision to cut positions

Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Andi Fourlis recently announced in a video that the district plans to eliminate positions.MESA, Ariz. — The Valley's largest school district is planning to eliminate job positions due to ongoing enrollment loss.Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Andi Fourlis recently announced in a video that the district has had to make the "heartbreaking decision" to cut positions after projecting a loss...

Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Andi Fourlis recently announced in a video that the district plans to eliminate positions.

MESA, Ariz. — The Valley's largest school district is planning to eliminate job positions due to ongoing enrollment loss.

Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Andi Fourlis recently announced in a video that the district has had to make the "heartbreaking decision" to cut positions after projecting a loss of about 1,800 students in the next school year.

MPS officials said the district needs to reduce about $18 million in expenses from the district's budget due to the loss of students and a rise in operational costs.

Fourlis did not specify how many positions will be eliminated but indicated that affected employees should be informed by Feb. 7.

"This is one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. I value every employee in Mesa Public Schools and the incredible impact they have on our students and community," Fourlis said in the district's video.

Fourlis' tenure as superintendent will soon be coming to an end as a new superintendent is expected to begin later this year.

The recent announcement comes one year after Mesa Public Schools considered reducing its workforce by hundreds of positions due to a loss of about 970 students.

Other districts around the Valley have had to recently make changes due to a significant loss in enrollment.

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Mesa Public Schools announces layoffs for 2025-2026 school year

Posted and last updated MESA, AZ — Mesa Public Schools has announced that the district will be laying off some of its staff members.Superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis said in a video posted online that, due to declining student enrollment, decreased funding, and rising operational costs, some positions will be eliminated throughout the district for the 2025-2026 year.District and school leaders have report...

Posted

and last updated

MESA, AZ — Mesa Public Schools has announced that the district will be laying off some of its staff members.

Superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis said in a video posted online that, due to declining student enrollment, decreased funding, and rising operational costs, some positions will be eliminated throughout the district for the 2025-2026 year.

District and school leaders have reportedly been notified about which positions will be impacted and those details will be shared with staff no later than Feb. 7.

Dr. Fourlis says 90% of the district’s expenses go toward paying staff members. Mesa Public Schools expects there to be 1,800 fewer students enrolled for the 2025-2026 school year, meaning decreased funding for the district.

No further details were immediately available, but Mesa Public Schools sent the following statement to ABC15:

"Like many districts across Arizona and the nation, Mesa Public Schools is experiencing declining enrollment, which directly affects funding and staffing levels. This year, the district has 1,100 more seniors than incoming kindergarteners, a trend mirrored by an 18% statewide decline in birth rates over the last decade and a 28% decline in the City of Mesa. Next year, Mesa Public Schools is projecting a decline of 1,800 students enrolled. Compounding these challenges are decreasing state and federal funding, including the expiration of Prop 123 in July 2025, and rising operational costs.

"Despite these obstacles, our commitment to delivering on our promise remains steadfast: to know every student by name, serve them by strength and need, and ensure they graduate ready for college, career, and community. To sustain this vision, Mesa Public Schools has carefully evaluated all resources, staffing levels, and organizational structures to align with our district goals. This includes prioritizing safe learning environments and exploring flexible staffing models to lead student success.

"Nearly 90% of our budget supports our dedicated employees, whose contributions are deeply valued. However, necessary budget reductions of nearly $18 million requires eliminating some positions for the 2025-26 school year. Impacted staff will receive several months' notice, resources such as resume support and mock interviews, and opportunities to apply for other roles within the district.

"We are committed to resilience during this challenging time, ensuring our students continue to receive high-quality education and support."

—

Other districts around the Valley have been grappling with declining student enrollment, school closures, and other issues.

Since last month, ABC15 reported on Phoenix Elementary School District voting to not renew a lease for Arizona State University Preparatory Academy, the approved closure of five Roosevelt School District schools, and West Valley bus driver shortages.

The Cave Creek Unified School District is also considering possibly closing two schools. The Kyrene Elementary School District is forming a committee to look at “long-range” planning as enrollment declines.

Latest from ABC15:

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