December 2019
Cory Lucas recently reopened the Mesa landmark Rancho de Tia Rosa. See more on page 20.
Mesa schools superintendent resigns, leaving mystery
Man shares love of skateboarding with Sunshine Acres
By Jordan Houston
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Ember Conley has officially resigned, leaving in her wake questions about her initial suspension and how much money the district will be paying her. Following a three-hour executive session to discuss her employment, the school board voted 4-1 during a special meeting December 2 to approve Conley’s resignation—18 months after she was hired. Conley resigned nearly two weeks after the board abruptly placed her on paid administrative leave, sparking speculation and unanswered questions among the community and district employees.
Ember Conley’s resignation was accepted on December 2. (Submitted photo)
Superintendent...continued on page 13
Omar Guerrero of Cracker & Co. is a longtime skateboarder who raised funds to buy boards for kids at Sunshine Acres Children’s Home. (Photos by Pablo Robles)
Omar Guerrero always saw skateboarding as more than just a recreational activity. The sport was something that soothed his mind and made the world better. For the last five years, Guerrero has been bringing his skills to Sunshine Acres Children’s Home in Northeast Mesa. This year, he carried with him 30 skateboards for the kids at the home on Higley Road. “In that facility, they have a little skate park, but they don’t have anyone to skate with or show them how to do stuff,” Guerrero said. “These kids, they don’t really get any outside exposure from
Skateboarding...continued on page 13
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