For the love of desert tortoises

By Emma Peterson/El Inde Alan Bedrick has always loved reptiles. When he was young, he preferred snakes and turtles as pets over the average dog or cat. Throughout the years, his adoration for reptiles has gotten stronger. “It’s sort of a hobby for me,” Bedrick says, “I have a desert tortoise outside and three water…

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A barbershop in decline

By Aziz Esmael/El Inde As the sun rises on the city of Tempe, Arizona, many businesses get ready to open up their doors to sell goods or provide a service to their customers. Feras Jamous, a gentleman in his late 40s , stands tall at almost six feet, bald and with a full beard. The…

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Blossom-filled local shop builds community

By Diana Ramos/El Inde The sound of bells hanging on a red double door means that a customer arrives. Pati Velasquez, the Flower Shop on 4th Avenue’s manager and events coordinator, welcomes the customer, a young woman into the shop. The smell of fresh flowers is everywhere. Flowerpots made of glass, plastic or ceramic in…

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One less vote

By Carlos Gama/El Inde Picture being a young kid in a car with a very religious parent. While you are listening to a point your mother or father is making about your need to follow their religion, you say something along the lines of ,“That is fine if you choose to believe that, but I…

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Historic hotel goes green

By Claire O’Connell/El Inde When entering the crisp green doors of Hotel Congress, you are immediately met with hospitality. The historic building greets its guests as if it is still 1919. While it only offers 39 rooms, the small landmark hotel is adored by many for its classical charm. Front desk manager Josh Osteen knows…

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