Glendale’s Community Newspaper
www.glendalestar.com
Vol. 78 No. 18
INSIDE
This Week THE VOICE OF BUSINESS
BUSINESS ......... 12
Small business sees growth despite pandemic
May 5, 2022
Coyotes, fans bid farewell to Gila River BY ZAKKARY BROG
When the final horn sounded at the end of the Arizona Coyotes and Nashville Predators game on Friday, April 29, it was more than just the end of the Coyotes’ 2021-22 season. It wrapped up a tumultuous relationship between the team and the city of Glendale — and fans have a mixed response about the breakup. “I thought it was stupid,” said Jerry Reyes, a longtime Coyotes fan who lives in Peoria. “Granted, Arizona hasn’t had the best success in a while, but this is where peo-
ple come. If you look at the crowds here, there’s a lot of people to support the team. I think it’s a mistake. It’s sad to see them go. I was very upset to hear the news.” North Valley resident Tony Miller, who has also attended Coyotes games for a decade, was baffled by the city’s decision. He worries about the potential negative economic impact associated with losing a professional sports team as a tenant at Westgate. “I thought that it was the stupidest thing in the world,” Miller said. “This is going to be used for a handful of concerts and other events instead of having it used for 41-plus games a year? All the revenue for
these restaurants is going to suffer; stores and everything, too. So, I think it’s going to put a damper on the economy here in Glendale, but that’s their decision.” Sara Maldonado of Buckeye, who attended her first Coyotes game several years ago and became a fan of the sport, was also surprised at the city’s willingness to end the relationship. However, she also acknowledged that fault can be found on both sides. “I guess they’ve had some squabbles in the past about rent and stuff like that,” Maldonado said. “So, it’s not a good look for either one of them.”
BY GLENDALE STAR STAFF Once known as Crystal Lagoons, VAI Resort will become the state’s largest hotel and entertainment destination. Due to launch in spring 2023, VAI Resort will bring a “water oasis to the desert,” according to a statement. VAI Resort will feature over 1,200 luxury hotel suites and rooms; a large, stateof-the-art, 360-degree concert stage; 13 elevated fine dining concepts; flowing white sand beaches; and Caribbean-blue water. A 52,000-square-foot island will be a center point for this 60-acre entertainment resort. “Growing up in Arizona, it’s always been my dream to bring some of the best attractions from around the world right to
our doorstep,” said Grant Fisher, president of VAI Resort. “From the vibes of Mykonos and Tulum to the beaches of Miami, to the concerts and parties of Las Vegas, to the ultra-modern attractions of Dubai, we’re bringing the best of the best to VAI Resort right here in the heart of Glendale.” VAI Resort will host top artists with more than 100 events annually. This development will have the country’s largest human-made private party island. The resort also boasts a 400-foot tethered balloon for guests to take in breathtaking views of the Valley of the Sun. “As most Arizona residents head out of state in the hot summer months, VAI
Resort will bring the beach and refreshing water to their backyard,” Fisher said. “There will be no need to go anywhere else.” VAI Resort will create more than 1,800 jobs for Glendale and have a far-reaching economic benefit for the region. “When you pick your partners well, you can expect great things to happen,” Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps said. “That’s precisely what we’re experiencing with VAI Resort. Mr. Fisher’s increased investment and enhanced vision for this world-class property will truly cement the city of Glendale here in the Valley, the state and the country as a top
Glendale Star Staff Writer
SEE COYOTES PAGE 4
Crystal Lagoons has new owner, name FEATURES ......... 22 Martin Auto Museum moves to Glendale
OPINION............................8 BUSINESS.......................12 SPORTS ...........................16 CALENDAR .....................18 FEATURES.......................22 RELIGION ........................24 YOUTH.............................26 CLASSIFIEDS ..................28
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