Fay Fredricks
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News Anchor, Mother, Wife, Hurricanes Fan... LA, AZ, Miami girl ... not necessarily in that order
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Articles by Fay Fredricks
Why gas prices stay high even when oil drops: It's a refining problem, industry group says
Oil prices rise, and fuel costs climb, but when crude falls, drivers often don't see relief at the pump. An industry expert explains the many hidden costs baked into every gallon. When oil prices go up, gas prices go up. But when oil prices go down, what we pay at the pump sometimes stays stubbornly high. The U.S. Oil and Gas Association offers some answers.
St. Vincent de Paul offers year-round cool spaces for Valley residents without shelter amid fall heat
PHOENIX, AZ — For people living without shelter in the Valley, the lingering fall heat makes daily survival even harder. St. Vincent de Paul says the need for cool spaces and basic services continues year-round. The organization provides air-conditioned spaces for those in need, including its family dining room. "The heat can be unpredictable. Sometimes it could be cool, and then all of a sudden, out of nowhere, it could be like 100 plus degrees.
Homeless advocate writes children's book about her own story
PHOENIX, AZ — A Phoenix woman who once found herself homeless after a health crisis and unexpected car repair bill has turned her experience into a children's book and a new chapter in her own life. AnnaMarie Harris, now a homeless advocate, was living in Mesa and working 3 jobs when her circumstances suddenly changed. Overwhelmed and out of options, she said she made a decision to just start walking.
Arizona Diamondbacks' 2001 World Series title remains symbol of national healing, 25 years after 9/11
Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11 attacks, the story of the Arizona Diamondbacks' 2001 World Series championship remains inseparable from the story of a nation in mourning. A walk through the Diamondbacks Hall of Fame stirs powerful memories for World Series star Luis Gonzalez. "This brings back great memories," Gonzalez said. "But it also brings back memories of what happened on 9/11," he said.
St. Vincent de Paul family dining room feeds bodies and souls in the community
For nine years, Cindy Bernardo has brought warm hugs, gentle kisses, and so much more to the St. Vincent de Paul Family Dining Room — a place she describes as far more than a place to eat. "They're my heart and soul. This is not a soup kitchen. This is a community center. It's a place where you come and you get loved, and you get served," Bernardo said. The mission at St. Vincent de Paul is to feed, clothe, house, and heal.
Arizona summers are hot, but the right landscaping choices can help beat the heat
PHOENIX (KNXV) — Arizona summers are hot, but your yard can help you beat the heat. Arizona summers can be brutal, but experts say the right landscaping choices can help beat the heat and lower your water bill. Experts at the Desert Botanical Garden say planting desert trees creates shade to protect other plants. They also suggest choosing low-water native plants like Texas Rangers and Yellow Bells to save money. If you want to cool down your property, you may want to ditch the rock landscaping.
New foal born to Salt River wild horse herd
A new foal has been born to the Salt River wild horse herd, and the public gets to help name him. The colt is 13 days old. Starting Saturday, the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group will hold a naming contest, giving the public 3 choices to vote on. "We always name wild horses together with the public, and we give them 3 choices that fit with the name of the Dad and the Mom," Simone Netherlands, from the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, said.
WATCH: El Niño could bring record snowfall to Arizona Snowbowl this winter season Original
FLAGSTAFF, AZ — Arizona Snowbowl crews are already preparing for what forecasters say could be one of the best ski and snowboard seasons in years, thanks to a strong El Niño weather pattern. Even as desert dwellers sweat out the extreme heat, employees at Arizona Snowbowl outside Flagstaff are working ahead for winter. They are installing a new conveyor lift for beginners and clearing nearly 100 acres of downed trees at the resort in anticipation of an epic season.
Can AI save your dying plants? A desert horticulture expert weighs in
Keeping a garden alive in extreme heat is no easy task. Now, more desert dwellers are turning to artificial intelligence for help. Tracy Rhodes, the trail horticulture manager at the Desert Botanical Garden, is responsible for keeping more than 50,000 plants thriving across 140 acres. "Well, it does take a lot of work," Rhodes said. Rhodes said there is no temperature threshold where all plants fail — at least not one the garden has reached yet. "I don't think we've reached it yet.
Can AI save your dying plants? A desert horticulture expert weighs in
Keeping a garden alive in extreme heat is no easy task. Now, more desert dwellers are turning to artificial intelligence for help. Tracy Rhodes, the trail horticulture manager at the Desert Botanical Garden, is responsible for keeping more than 50,000 plants thriving across 140 acres. "Well, it does take a lot of work," Rhodes said. Rhodes said there is no temperature threshold where all plants fail — at least not one the garden has reached yet. "I don't think we've reached it yet.
Cisco president Jeetu Patel on Arizona's data center boom and AI's future Original
Pew Research reports 86 new data centers are planned for Arizona, making it one of the top 5 states in the nation for the controversial developments. ABC15 took viewer concerns over data centers to the president of one of the largest technology companies in the world. Cisco is a $450+ billion infrastructure and security powerhouse. It connects and protects data centers, corporate networks, and even the internet itself. Cisco president Jeetu Patel is betting heavily on AI.
‘Girls Mentorship’ helps young girls build confidence and leadership skills
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — A summer program in north Scottsdale is helping teenage girls develop leadership skills, coping strategies, and confidence — and the founders say the need has never been greater. Girls Mentorship serves young women ages 10 to 18, with programming built around personal growth and development. The program was founded by Mary Foran and Jill Peterson, who bring backgrounds in fitness and corporate retail to their work with the next generation.
Scottsdale and more Valley resorts offering summer deals, staycation discounts
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — High gas prices and soaring airfares are expected to take a toll on summer travel, with more Americans taking shorter and lower-cost trips, according to a recent U.S. Travel Association report. Laura McMurchie of Experience Scottsdale says the Valley's sizzling summer temperatures are actually an opportunity for savvy locals. "It's a great opportunity to vacation in your own backyard. You can stay at a five-star property for three-star prices this time of year.
Arizona Ranks 8th Among Fastest-Growing States, U.S. Census Bureau Data Shows
PHOENIX — Arizona continues to grow at one of the fastest rates in the country, according to newly released U.S. Census Bureau estimates. The latest numbers show Arizona added more than 67,000 residents between July 2024 and July 2025, representing a population growth rate of 0.9%. That growth places Arizona eighth nationwide among the fastest-growing states by percentage increase.
World-renowned event planner shares budget-friendly party tips for summer and graduation season
PHOENIX — Whether you're hosting a graduation party or planning a summer soiree, you don't have to break the bank to party in style. Edward Perotti has planned events for as many as 20,000 guests — from an intimate evening at the French Palace of Versailles to a massive bash along the Hawaiian coast. His celebrity client list includes Carrie Fisher and Viola Davis. His advice? Start with your guests. "Are they outdoorsy? Are they indoorsy? Are they drinkers? Are they athletic? Are they whatever that is?
WATCH: Arizona is a top target for healthcare fraud, a new federal strike force is fighting back Original
PHOENIX — Federal prosecutors have identified Arizona as the 6th riskiest state for healthcare fraud in the nation. The Department of Justice is now standing up to a new healthcare fraud strike to force to intensify its focus on the state. U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona Timothy Courchaine said the strike force is designed to break down barriers between federal agencies and concentrate resources on a specific problem. Do you have a concern in your community or a news tip?
WATCH: Years after Phoenix Children's saved her life, a former patient is walking the halls again
PHOENIX — Anna Gotchling was not yet 2 years old when she was rushed to Phoenix Children's Hospital in a helicopter with a severe brain injury. Now, she walks those same halls as an employee. "Phoenix Children's saved my life. So I've always wanted to work here," Gotchling said. Gotchling manages the front office at the hospital's Scottsdale location. While she does not remember the multiple surgeries and the month she spent recovering at the hospital, the experience shaped her future.
Valley nonprofit delivers comfort to cancer patients, one bag at a time
Fighting cancer can be an isolating experience. But one Valley organization is working to make sure no one has to go through it alone—offering comfort, connection, and care: one bag at a time. For Todd Kelly, the fight against cancer has been anything but easy. “I was diagnosed with cancer in 2017. I had my lung removed. I was good for five years—and after five years, it came back,” Kelly said.
From "D" to "B": D-backs donation transforms Title IX school in Phoenix
PHOENIX — Just a mile from Chase Field, where home runs and fan applause fill the stadium, something quieter, but just as powerful, is happening inside a local classroom. At ASU Preparatory Academy Pilgrim Rest, about 200 kindergarteners through eighth-grade students are experiencing a new kind of learning—one that goes far beyond textbooks. ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest is a Title IX school where more than 40% of the students come from low-income households, according to Principal Marissa Schneckloth.
Goodyear community center helping senior citizens understand AI
GOODYEAR, AZ — Artificial intelligence has been around since the 1950’s, but many senior citizens and young people alike are overwhelmed by AI. 1-in-4 people have been targeted by AI scams. So, Optum Community Center in Goodyear decided to do something about it and is hosting “Understanding AI: AI for Everyone,” a course to teach older adults more about AI. Watch more from Fay Fredricks in the video player above
Turf Paradise gets fresh start under new management with racing veteran at the helm
A clean break and a fresh start for the Valley's oldest major sports venue. Built in 1956, the thunder of thoroughbred hooves has torn down the Turf Paradise stretch for 70 seasons. But big changes are underway. The racetrack is undergoing massive renovations under the leadership of a new team that has an impressive pedigree. Tom Ludt is the new general manager of the track near 15th Avenue and Bell Road in Phoenix.
GOP candidate for Governor Karrin Taylor Robson talks with ABC15
PHOENIX — Karrin Taylor Robson was the first major challenger in Arizona's gubernatorial race, armed with what she calls a "game changer" — President Trump's endorsement. "Having President Trump's complete and total endorsement is a game changer," Robson said. "If I had his endorsement last time, I'd be sitting here as your Governor today." Robson announced her candidacy in February and began airing campaign ads shortly after — exceptionally early by conventional standards.
Sonoran Living host Terri Ouellette reveals breast cancer diagnosis
PHOENIX — For more than 30 years, Terri Ouellette has charmed Arizona audiences with her bright smile and infectious energy on our TVs and in our homes. But for the last 12 months, the ABC15's Sonoran Living host has quietly battled breast cancer. "I've kept this very private for well, the entire year that I've been going through this," Ouellette said. Her message is clear and hopeful. "My message is not that, 'oh my gosh, you guys, I had breast cancer.' Oh no, no.
Former Arizona governor demands action on child safety failures
PHOENIX — More than 10 years after leaving office, former Arizona Governor Jan Brewer is speaking out, frustrated with the current state of the Department of Child Safety, the agency she created to protect vulnerable children. "They're little and they end up being so brutally abused, killed, tormented day in and day out for years, and we hear about it and something doesn't happen?" Brewer said, her voice filled with emotion.
Former Arizona governor demands action on child safety failures
PHOENIX — More than 10 years after leaving office, former Arizona Governor Jan Brewer is speaking out, frustrated with the current state of the Department of Child Safety, the agency she created to protect vulnerable children. "They're little and they end up being so brutally abused, killed, tormented day in and day out for years, and we hear about it and something doesn't happen?" Brewer said, her voice filled with emotion.
New plan could slash Arizona’s Salt River Herd to brink of extinction
A brewing controversy over the future of the Salt River wild horses is pitting environmental critics against animal advocates, with new allegations that a state-federal plan could drastically reduce their numbers, possibly to the point of extinction. Critics say the herd, which grazes along the Lower Salt River in the Tonto National Forest, destroys native grasses that provide habitat for birds and other small wildlife.
WATCH: Governor discusses immigration, housing and homelessness in sit-down with ABC15
PHOENIX — Following her third State of the State address, Governor Hobbs sat down with ABC15 Anchor Fay Fredricks to discuss her priorities for the 2025 legislative session. The conversation included Hobbs’ plans to make housing more affordable, protecting Arizonans from wildfire threats, homelessness, and the prospect of mass deportations under the second Trump Administration. Watch part one and two of the interview in the player above.
Get to know Kingman: The historic mining town is much more than a Route 66 pitstop
KINGMAN, AZ — In northern Arizona, along historic Route 66 is the City of Kingman. "This town really is a country town, a cattleman's town," said long-time resident Sharlene Sammeli. The city is about three hours from the Valley and less than two hours from Las Vegas, Nevada. "You can go almost anywhere from here in just a few hours," said Becky Fawson the President and CEO of the Kingman Area Chamber of Commerce. It's known to many as a stop on the way to their final destination.
Alpine Wild Horses face new danger
Horse rescue organizations are desperate to save six horses rounded up near Alpine in far Northeastern Arizona before Sunday when the animals could be sold to slaughter plants in Mexico. The horses were caught and shipped to Texas as part of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest official's efforts to remove all wild horses from the area. The Forest Service considers the horses "unauthorized livestock." Hundreds of wild horses used to live in the forest near Alpine.
St. Mary's provides food and hope through training and employment programs
PHOENIX — In a warehouse packed from floor to ceiling with food for Arizonans in need, the buzz and hum of Samantha Munoz's machine never seem to stop. Munoz is a forklift operator at St Mary's Food Bank. "I know all my hard work is helping the next person. It's just being able to help someone," said Munoz, who's been working there for a year now. This critical behind-the-scenes work allows St. Mary's to provide meals to thousands of children and families every day.
St. Mary's Food Bank & PetSmart Charities offer free pet food
PHOENIX — The lines are often long, but for people who are struggling to feed themselves and their pets, St. Mary's Food Bank is a vital resource. During the last week of the month, St. Mary's typically includes large bags of pet food along with the food boxes they distribute at their 31st Avenue and Thomas Road location. Volunteers load the groceries into cars and trucks that are often lined up around the block. Everything offered is free.
New pedestrian tunnel under Shea Boulevard at 124th Street opens
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — The city of Scottsdale has a new pedestrian tunnel under one of its busiest roads. Children from five nearby schools, cyclists, and equestrians can now cross underneath six lanes near Shea Boulevard at 124th Street, following the completion of a long-awaited city project. "I think it's pretty safe to say we're pushing 10 years from conception to completion," said Scottsdale Public Works Director Dan Worth.
Local horse rescue ranch feeling impacts of inflation
PHOENIX — Secretariat and Spectacular Bid are both horseracing royalty and household names for even casual fans of the Sport of Kings. Their bloodlines have transformed modern racing from coast to coast. Here in Arizona, two of their great, great grandsons can still be found tails up and hooves flying at a small ranch in far north Phoenix. After the Homestretch-Arizona is a horse rescue that specializes in retired thoroughbreds.
Arizona wild horses being rounded up, put up for auction in northwestern AZ
They've been called "living symbols of the American West", but some worry Arizona's wild horses are now in danger of being rounded up and sent to slaughter plants in Mexico. The horses are caught in a legal tug-of-war between an environmental group that wants to get rid of them, rescue groups that want to save them, and some U.S. Forest Service officials unwilling to entertain proposals to manage them on America's public lands. The latest battle is in Alpine in far northwestern Arizona.
Fashion show raises money to help abused, neglected, and at-risk children
Fashion meets compassion and giving back comes in all sizes at the Childhelp Wings Fashion Show. The event features famous Valley faces and their families modeling the latest trends while raising money for abused, neglected, and at-risk children. Former NFL player-turned-broadcaster Adam Archuleta, his wife Jennifer, and their children have made the event a priority since 2015.
American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure event returns to Goodyear
GOODYEAR, AZ — From rev your engines to ride your bikes, the American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure event returns to Goodyear Saturday, March 18, 2023. Cyclists have their choice of three courses ranging from 5.6 miles to 56 miles. The Goodyear ballpark is the site of the start and finish lines for all three courses. The event hopes to raise $850,000 for advocacy and research grants associated with the American Diabetes Association.
Aspiring Valley filmmaker hopes to break into Hollywood
From small films like Leslie, that's grossed less than $50,000 domestically, to big-budgeted Hollywood blockbusters like Avatar 2: The Way of Water, that's brought in nearly $2.3 billion in the U.S. alone, the 95th Academy Awards have something for all movie fans. Hollywood's biggest night is also an event to inspire young and aspiring filmmakers who hope to one day thank the Academy themselves.
Terros Health offering free Narcan training in the Valley
PHOENIX — It's the nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose in seconds. Narcan is now available as an over-the-counter medication and in Arizona, free training on how to use it is now available through Terros Health. Former firefighter and paramedic Dave Schad encourages everyone to have it on hand but warns the medication does expire, and it is temperature sensitive, so don't leave it in your car in the summer sun.
Comebacks, big range of Best Picture nominees at 95th Academy Awards
Drama, action, and stunning surprises — last year’s Oscars had it all and that was just the awards show itself. This year’s show won’t have Will Smith (who was banned from Oscar events for 10 years following the slap heard around the world) and Chris Rock is getting his hits in on his new Netflix comedy special. But that doesn’t mean the 95th Academy Awards, airing this Sunday, will be without drama, action, and more stunning surprises. Look no further than this year’s Best Picture nominees.
CRIMINAL MINDED: "New podcast disputes account of journalist murder"
A new podcast series called "The Syndicate" is set to reveal many details on February 10, across multiple podcast platforms. Alone in front of a microphone, Don Sikorski tells a tale of deception, murder, and the mob. The founder of Criminal Minded Media slowly reveals the results of his latest investigation into the killing of journalist Don Bolles. Bolles was killed by a car bomb in the parking lot of Phoenix's Claredon Hotel in 1976.
Wild horses found shot in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Wild horse advocates are outraged after at least 12 horses were found dead in the Apache Forest near Alpine in far eastern Arizona. They say the horses had all been shot. The animals have been the focus of a legal battle between the U.S. Forest Service, which considers the horses stray livestock, and animal advocates who say they date back generations and should be treated no differently than deer, elk, or any other animals that live in the area.
What to know about reversing plastic surgery
PHOENIX — Trends and tastes change in many aspects of our lives, including increasing cosmetic procedures. What was once all the rage can now feel outdated and no longer wanted. Dawn Hopkins recently had her breast implants removed after 18 years. She didn't have any medical problems with the implants, but with children and now grandchildren, they simply didn't fit her lifestyle anymore.
Arizona wild horse battle intensifies
Born free, but now captured and locked in the back of a trailer, a young horse will soon see his new home for the first time. Only a few months old, he is one of 18 horses rounded up on the Apache Forest near Alpine recently. Some 400 wild horses live on the forest in far Northeastern Arizona. The Forest Service considers all the horses living free on the Apache Forest "unauthorized livestock," and is committed to getting them off public lands in that area.
An old friend donates kidney to Valley woman
An old friend and online gaming led to an incredible birthday gift for a Valley woman. Mandy Kennedy is home recovering from kidney transplant surgery. She has a genetic condition called Alport Syndrome. The condition causes progressive loss of kidney function. Last summer, she started dialysis treatments. It was shortly after she and her husband, Brandon, moved to Arizona.
Water treatment facility provides recycled water for Valley golf courses
PHOENIX — It's no secret that water is life in the desert. It also protects the livelihoods of all who live here. Golf courses are especially vulnerable to water woes. But some of the newer golf courses in north Scottsdale have a unique arrangement with the city. The 1980 Groundwater Management Act prevents new golf courses from using groundwater to irrigate. So, back in 1998, several courses spent millions to help build a state-of-the-art water treatment facility.
'Worst pitcher in baseball' making miracles happen on the mound
PHOENIX — It's not often someone calls themselves the absolute worst at something with a smile. But watch Dave Hendrickson on the mound night after night, and you'll see exactly that. He's been pitching balls and watching them fly, at the Miracle League of Arizona for nearly a decade. "The smiles of the kids, when you throw a ball," Hendrickson says, "that's what it's all about for me." That's a good thing too, since in all of his years, Hendrickson has never struck anyone out.
Valley students review college readiness help
PHOENIX — "Pencils down, stop writing, time's up" is a phrase fewer Arizona students have heard in recent years due to the pandemic as more colleges and universities are making SAT and ACT testing optional. As a result, many elite schools are being flooded with even more applications, and that's leading to even more intense competition to be admitted. "Some students may be devastated when they get that rejection at the end of senior year.
Hot housing market expected to stick around through holidays
PHOENIX — Arizona's red hot real estate trend looks like it will continue through the holiday season. Traditionally, a slower time of year for home sales, conventional wisdom suggests sellers wait until the new year to list their property. But this year, inventory is tight, and demand continues to increase says Valley realtor Agata Kennedy. "It's a very big misconception that selling a home during the holidays is not a great time.
Arizona woman loses thousands of dollars in cash transfer app scam
By: Fay Fredricks WILLIAMS, AZ — Cash transfer apps are easy and convenient, but a growing number of Americans are learning they can also make you a target for scammers. The Arizona Attorney General's Office has received eight complaints about money transfer scams over the past year. Some involve so-called "vishing" scams — the crook sends a fake fraud alert text, claiming to be from your bank, then asks if you tried to transfer money.
Arizona woman loses thousands of dollars in cash transfer app scam
WILLIAMS, AZ — Cash transfer apps are easy and convenient, but a growing number of Americans are learning they can also make you a target for scammers. The Arizona Attorney General's Office has received eight complaints about money transfer scams over the past year. Some involve so-called "vishing" scams — the crook sends a fake fraud alert text, claiming to be from your bank, then asks if you tried to transfer money.
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