During a busy Friday evening at a downtown office building near the busiest highway in Tempe, AZ, a newly-hired and undertrained security guard, feeling overwhelmed by the influx of guests for a corporate event, misjudged a situation that escalated quickly. When a group of unauthorized individuals attempted to gain access to the premises, he panicked and decided to confront them without first notifying law enforcement or calling for backup. His poor decision not only allowed the trespassers to wreak havoc, leading to property damage and theft, but also resulted in numerous injuries among attendees caught in the chaos. As a consequence, the building owner faced a barrage of lawsuits from both the injured parties and businesses claiming losses. In the end, the oversight in training proved catastrophic, costing the owner a significant amount of money and damaging their reputation in the community.
Whether you're a business owner who owns a facility that needs guarding or you're a security professional yourself, scenarios like the one above probably make you cringe. They highlight the importance of proper security guard training in Tempe, AZ and why having a security guard card is non-negotiable. At Arrow Security, we specialize in training tomorrow's best security guards for both unarmed and armed needs. If you're looking for work as a security guard, or you rely on security to protect your property or assets, it's time to consider a security guard certification.
Let the professionals at Arrow Security, Inc. show you how cost effective on-site security can be.
Security guard training helps secure your ability to carry out essential security responsibilities. This certification is often a prerequisite for those entering the security field. Each state has its own licensing requirements, which usually include the completion of state-approved training programs that cover critical areas such as emergency response, de-escalation techniques, and legal obligations. Many states require background checks, health screenings, and drug tests to ensure the safety and integrity of their security personnel.
Individuals who undergo security guard training courses - like those offered at Arrow Security - benefit from:
Trained security professionals who have their guard cards are better at de-escalating intense situations before they get violent.
Security guard certification programs teach guards how to spot suspicious activity, communicate with offenders more effectively, and correctly document incidents.
Most states, including Arizona, require prospective security guards to be properly trained and vetted.
When you earn a security guard card, you're demonstrating that you take your profession seriously. It also signifies that you've completed basic training, a background check, and other steps needed to get licensed as a security guard in Arizona. According to the American Firearm Academy, security professionals who undergo training courses are more attractive candidates for employers and clients.
At Arrow Security, we're often approached by men and women who want to be security guards but don't know whether they want to be an unarmed guard or someone who carries a weapon with them. The decision may come down to your training and what sort of requirements you have to meet. Let's take a closer look at security guard training courses for both armed and unarmed needs.
Unarmed security training is the initial step to getting your Arizona Unarmed Guard Card. This comprehensive 8-hour course covers essential security guard protocols, providing you with the foundational knowledge to launch a career in security. Upon finishing the course, you'll be prepared to apply for or renew your unarmed security guard license.
This 8-hour course is offered in person and even online from Arrow Security. With Arrow's online course, you can start and stop training at will. Have a family matter that needs attending to? Need to take the dog outside? By signing up for our online course, you'll have the freedom to do so. Our unarmed security guard training course covers important topics like:
In order to complete an unarmed security guard training course in Arizona, you must:
Pay a $72 fee to the Department of Public Safety (D.P.S.) to complete the background check and issue the guard card. You will also need to submit Fingerprints and two (2) Passport Photos to D.P.S. At Arrow Security, we offer fingerprinting and photo services so that you can complete this step with ease.
Once you complete your unarmed security guard training, you'll be a better candidate for employment in areas like:
In Arizona, training for armed security guards begins with a comprehensive initial course lasting 16 hours. This foundational program covers essential aspects of firearm handling, including:
As highlighted above, prospective guards will engage in rigorous training that includes a live-fire range qualification to ensure proficiency and confidence in their shooting skills. They must also complete a written exam to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered. Once you complete your armed security guard training, you'll be a better candidate for employment, especially in locations that may see increased risks of theft, violence, or other security threats.
Some of the most common locations that use armed security guards include:
After initial training, armed security personnel are required to fulfill annual continuing education obligations to maintain their certifications and stay updated on best practices and legal changes in security and firearm regulations. We offer an 8-hour refresher course that satisfies 2-year renewal requirements, making recertification easy.
In order to pass an armed security guard course from Arrow Security, you'll need to meet several requirements specific to our company and the State of Arizona. Those include:
You don't have to be a veteran of the largest police department near Tempe, AZ, to take this course. However, instructors assume participants already have some proficiency with firearms. While we will offer some fundamental guidance, it is expected that students come in with prior experience in handling and shooting a firearm.
Start by completing the first part of the course online. You can watch the lessons anytime you want, so feel free to begin, pause, and come back whenever it's best for you. Make sure you finish this online part before you join us for the in-person range day. Remember, you need to finish the online section before you can sign up for the range day
The second day takes place in person at the range, usually at Ben Avery Shooting Range in Phoenix. Since range time is limited, it's important to finish the online portion to secure your registration. Keep in mind that there can be 25-50% cancellations and rescheduling, offering chances to participate in earlier range days. Feel free to call for more information.
Students must bring a standard duty-type revolver or semi-automatic pistol, holster, and at least two magazines or speed loaders. Rentals may be available. Ammunition is not included.
If you're considering a career in the security field, one of the key decisions you'll need to make is whether to pursue a position as an unarmed or armed security guard. Both roles are sought after, present good job prospects, and allow you to play an important role in safeguarding individuals and property. However, they entail distinct responsibilities, requirements, and levels of risk.
The main distinction between armed and unarmed security guards lies in the level of force they are permitted and trained to use. Armed guards are equipped with firearms and usually receive training to manage high-risk scenarios where there is a greater likelihood of violence or criminal behavior. An armed security guard presence can deter serious threats like:
In order to earn an armed security guard card in Arizona, applicants usually face a rigorous selection process that includes comprehensive background investigations. These checks delve into their personal history, examining criminal records, financial stability, and previous employment to ensure they possess the integrity and reliability required for the job. As covered in the security guard training section above, armed guards also undergo extensive firearms training that not only includes basic weapon handling but also advanced techniques for tactical response and situational awareness.
You don't have to be a graduate from the largest university near Tempe, AZ, to know that unarmed security guards don't carry firearms. Instead, they rely on:
If you're interested in dealing with safety concerns but don't want the overall risk level associated with being armed, taking an unarmed security guard course is probably your best bet.
Armed security guards are particularly beneficial in environments or circumstances that involve a greater likelihood of significant risks, such as theft, violence, or potential assaults. Establishments that deal with substantial sums of cash or valuable items—like banks, jewelry shops, and armored transport services—typically need armed guards to prevent criminal activity and provide immediate response when needed. Just their visible presence can often deter potential criminals from selecting these locations as targets.
When you go to a large public place like the largest sports stadium near Tempe, AZ, chances are you'll see armed guards. Armed security at public events like concerts and festivals is beneficial, especially in large crowds where disturbances can occur. They are trained to respond quickly to any violent incidents, maintaining order until law enforcement arrives. Their presence provides reassurance to attendees and helps organizers meet security requirements.
Industries that hold national or strategic significance, like energy facilities, water treatment plants, and government buildings, frequently utilize armed security to mitigate the risks of sabotage or terrorist activities. In these settings, the ability to swiftly respond to any potential threats is essential for ensuring public safety and maintaining uninterrupted operations.
Corporate campuses and high-profile individuals may need armed protection during labor disputes or times of increased personal risk. Armed guards offer both physical security and psychological reassurance, providing peace of mind to staff and leadership.
Unarmed security guards are vital for maintaining safety without firearms. Once you obtain your unarmed security guard certification in Tempe, AZ, you'll use observation and communication skills and will be trained to identify suspicious behavior, maintain composure during tense moments, and diffuse conflicts before they escalate. An unarmed guard's presence alone can discourage minor infractions such as trespassing or shoplifting, and they are capable of promptly notifying law enforcement if further assistance is needed. These security services are key for maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
Unarmed security guards are well-suited for environments where customer service is important alongside safety. In retail spaces like stores and malls, they help deter theft while assisting customers with questions. Their reassuring presence enhances the overall shopping experience.
Schools and universities benefit from unarmed security personnel who monitor entrances and hallways for suspicious behavior while preserving the educational environment. Trained in communication and de-escalation, they effectively manage minor issues and contact law enforcement when necessary.
Unarmed guards are often employed in healthcare facilities, event venues, and places of worship. In these environments, it's important for them to demonstrate sensitivity and professionalism. They serve not only as a security presence but also as a supportive resource for both guests and staff.
While both armed and unarmed certifications prepare workers for roles in the security industry, there are substantial differences between the two. Here's a quick breakdown:
Unarmed certification emphasizes skills in communication and observation, whereas armed certification covers firearm training and qualification, along with the legal aspects related to the use of force.
Unarmed guards typically operate in lower-risk environments, such as retail and residential areas, while armed guards are assigned to high-security or higher-risk locations.
Every security job you interview for will be different and has the potential for different pay. Generally speaking, armed security personnel receive higher salaries due to the greater risks and skills needed for the job.
Armed guards are under increased scrutiny because of the risks associated with firearm use, necessitating a greater level of responsibility and professionalism.
Arrow Security, Inc. is Arizona's leading security guard service. Our training program is led by a seasoned former police officer and S.W.A.T. team member, who is D.P.S. certified in all areas of security guard and patrol instruction, instilling a strong emphasis on integrity across the industry.
With a management team boasting over 150 years of combined experience in security and management, we are committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients, setting us apart from the competition. We offer licensed security guards, comprehensive security guard training, and a full retail store of security guard products to meet your needs.
Whether you own a business, manage a facility, or want to begin a new chapter in your life with a new career, we can help. From unarmed guards for religious locations to armed guards for high-risk environments, our security guard training classes set up professionals for rewarding long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about our online and in-person classes.
Kestra Holdings, a leading wealth management company serving independent financial professionals and firms nationwide, today announced the planned opening of a secondary headquarters in Tempe, Arizona. Kestra will maintain its primary headquarters in Austin, Texas, while its presence in Tempe will help accelerate its ability to scale operations and deliver even greater support to its growing network of more than 1,700 financial advisors nationwide. Kestra’s Tempe location is anticipated to create a projected 250 new jobs over the next ...
Kestra Holdings, a leading wealth management company serving independent financial professionals and firms nationwide, today announced the planned opening of a secondary headquarters in Tempe, Arizona. Kestra will maintain its primary headquarters in Austin, Texas, while its presence in Tempe will help accelerate its ability to scale operations and deliver even greater support to its growing network of more than 1,700 financial advisors nationwide. Kestra’s Tempe location is anticipated to create a projected 250 new jobs over the next 18-24 months.
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Located at Rio 2100 east of Rio Salado Parkway and Price Road, this location marks a pivotal advancement in Kestra’s growth strategy, strengthening business continuity while tapping into the region’s deep financial services talent pool.
In addition, Kestra announced key executive hires including Angela Xavier, Client Experience Officer who will oversee day-to-day operations in Tempe; General Counsel Jeremy Carr in Austin; and Jim Collins as Head of Business Development for Kestra Financial.
“It’s an exciting time for growth and expansion here at Kestra,” said James Poer, Chief Executive Officer of Kestra Holdings. “The addition of these key hires, and our expansion into Tempe, reflects our commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and investing in great people. Austin will remain a vital hub of innovation and leadership for our company, and Tempe will serve as a complementary center of talent and opportunity. Together, these locations will strengthen our ability to serve our community of high-performing advisors while fostering the growth of vibrant, collaborative teams in both markets.”
Kestra’s decision to open its newest office in the Greater Phoenix market follows an in-depth analysis of key locations, with Kestra choosing the region for its dynamic, diverse, and rapidly expanding metro area. Initially, the new office will house client service and operations teams, with additional business functions to follow in future phases.
“Kestra’s decision to establish a major presence in Tempe reflects both the strength of our market and the company’s forward-looking vision for empowering entrepreneurial financial advisors — and, through them, the financial futures of everyday investors,” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. “We are proud to welcome Kestra and look forward to the opportunities this will create for our community.”
“Kestra’s expansion into Tempe builds on Greater Phoenix’s position as a thriving center for financial services and innovation,” said Thomas Maynard, Senior Vice President of Business Development of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. “We’re confident this expansion will be mutually beneficial for the company and for our local talent pool.”
“Kestra’s secondary headquarters in Tempe highlights Arizona’s attractiveness as a top destination for business and financial services companies,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “This location will create high-quality jobs and enhance Tempe and Arizona’s innovative business and financial services sectors.”
Jim Bayless and Trey Glenn of CBRE Phoenix represented Kestra.
Kestra Holdings currently employs nearly 1,050 people and serves high-performing, independent financial advisors from across the United States.
Kaos Hospitality announced it will break ground on its latest concept, Wood and Water, later this year. Wood and Water, located at 410 N. Scottsdale Rd., is Kaos’ third Tempe restaurant. It is an Asian-inspired seafood concept bringing elevated, fresh-from-the-ocean delicacies to the community. Wood and Water is scheduled to open in late fall of 2026.DEEPER DIVE: Arizona named best state in the U.S. to see the supermoon in NovemberLOCAL NEWS: 100 best places to work and live in Arizona fo...
Kaos Hospitality announced it will break ground on its latest concept, Wood and Water, later this year. Wood and Water, located at 410 N. Scottsdale Rd., is Kaos’ third Tempe restaurant. It is an Asian-inspired seafood concept bringing elevated, fresh-from-the-ocean delicacies to the community. Wood and Water is scheduled to open in late fall of 2026.
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“We have been met with open arms and such enthusiasm from the community at Three Thirty Three, and we are excited to introduce Tempe and the surrounding areas to more of our restaurants,” said John DeVries, CEO of Kaos Hospitality, who developed the concept for Wood and Water with Haylee Nguyen, executive vice president of Kaos. “At Wood and Water, seafood is our love language, and we believe it will exceed diners’ expectations of what a seafood restaurant can be.”
The new restaurant is a 9,000-square-foot space featuring a patio. It is located in Tempe’s Watermark, where Kaos’ other concepts Three Thirty Three, which opened in December 2024, and 212° Shabu Shabu, opening in late 2025, reside.
The design of the restaurant is much aligned with its name. Upon completion, Wood and Water will feature an airy, open design with beautiful wood finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows boasting panoramic views of Tempe Town Lake, lush green foliage, a massive 5,000-gallon shark tank, and live crab and seafood tanks. Like its sister concepts, Wood and Water’s menu will take inspiration from Asian cuisine, showcasing incredibly fresh and elevated seafood-forward options alongside home-cooked favorites.
Groundbreaking is expected by year’s end. Additional information on buildout and opening date is forthcoming.
For more information about the new restaurant, visit https://woodandwaterrestaurants.com/.
TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A coffee shop popular among central Phoenix residents is expanding to the East Valley.Window Coffee Bar is preparing to open its newest location in Tempe, located in the lobby of The Beam on Farmer building.The shop has been a central Phoenix favorite since 2021, with two locations: Uptown and Melrose. It was even named the 15th-best coffee shop in the United States by Yelp reviewers and voted Best Phoenix Neighborhood Coffee Shop in Phoenix Magazine’s Best of the Valley for 2025....
TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A coffee shop popular among central Phoenix residents is expanding to the East Valley.
Window Coffee Bar is preparing to open its newest location in Tempe, located in the lobby of The Beam on Farmer building.
The shop has been a central Phoenix favorite since 2021, with two locations: Uptown and Melrose. It was even named the 15th-best coffee shop in the United States by Yelp reviewers and voted Best Phoenix Neighborhood Coffee Shop in Phoenix Magazine’s Best of the Valley for 2025.
“We started as just a little handout window in downtown Phoenix, and we’ve opened a new brick-and-mortar every year for the first three years we’ve been in business,” said co-owner Marcus Sanchez.
Sanchez and co-owner Homero Medrano said their passion and care for their customers set them apart from other coffee shops.
“We focus on quality,” Medrano said. “Quality and also, we put ourselves in our customers’ shoes. We treat our customers the way we want to be treated.”
Sanchez said his favorite drink is the Chaga mushroom, which he says tastes like “an earthy espresso, cinnamon mocha, not like mushroom,” and has anti-aging qualities. A customer favorite is the Burnt Cream, which has a rich crème brûlée-like flavor.
The owners just debuted a new drink, the banana bread latte, made with real bananas, cinnamon and brown sugar. They also sell a variety of baked treats that are delivered each morning by local bakers, including Suss Pastries and Bagelfelds bagels.
Window Coffee Bar’s Tempe location is set to open in November, but a specific opening date has not yet been set.
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"When there's no wind in your sail, row."That was the message ASU women's basketball head coach Molly Miller sent when she was introduced in Tempe. That message has brought hope to a women's basketball program that has been searching for success.After a 2024-25 season that saw the Sun Devils post a 10-22 record and a 15th-place finish in the Big 12, ASU ended another season without an NCAA Tournament berth.Elsewhere in Arizona, GCU found a very different fate. A 32-3 season, in which the Lopes won the Western A...
"When there's no wind in your sail, row."
That was the message ASU women's basketball head coach Molly Miller sent when she was introduced in Tempe. That message has brought hope to a women's basketball program that has been searching for success.
After a 2024-25 season that saw the Sun Devils post a 10-22 record and a 15th-place finish in the Big 12, ASU ended another season without an NCAA Tournament berth.
Elsewhere in Arizona, GCU found a very different fate. A 32-3 season, in which the Lopes won the Western Athletic Conference, put then-GCU head coach Miller on the map.
In search of a new head coach, ASU hired Miller to lead the women's basketball program.
Since taking over, Miller has revitalized the culture of women's basketball in Tempe.
As a coach who has made waves in the off-court culture through team-bonding activities, it's the identity on the court that seeks to make life harder for opponents.
"Playing Arizona State should be like going to the dentist; no one wants to do it," Miller said at Big 12 Media Day. "You're going to go out there and you're going to play relentless. You're going to see a very selfless team."
Freshly celebrating the program's 50th anniversary, the season is set to kick off on Nov. 3, and the Sun Devils prepare for a new campaign with new expectations.
The Sun Devils are ranked 11th out of 16 teams in the Big 12 preseason coaches' poll, and a new roster in Tempe could take a step up from last season.
Only three players return to ASU, with 10 new players stepping onto the court, eight of whom transferred in during the offseason.
Gabby Elliot, a fifth-year guard, previously played at Clemson, Michigan State and Penn State before transferring to ASU. At Penn State last season, Elliot averaged 13.6 points per game, the same stat she posted as a freshman at Clemson.
Acacia Hayes, a senior guard, spent three years at Western Kentucky, scoring 12 points per game before becoming a Sun Devil.
While ASU boasts good guard play, the Sun Devils only have two centers on their roster, neither of whom has played a college game before this coming season. Timya Grice is one of three returning players after 2024-25 was her redshirt season, but it's the other center, Martina Fantini, who stands out on the roster page. Fantini, a freshman, is the only European player on the team, making the move from Florence, Italy, to play college basketball.
The theme of a lack of depth among centers continues to the forward position.
Only two players on ASU's roster are true forwards.
One of whom is Heloisa Carrera, a sophomore who is from São Paulo, Brazil, transferred in from Ole Miss after her freshman season, where she played 13 games and scored 1.7 points per game last season. The other forward on the roster is junior McKinna Brackens, who put up 9.8 points per game last season at UNLV.
The Sun Devils start the season with an opening pair of home games against Coppin State and Eastern Washington on Nov. 3 and 8 before taking a trip to California to play San Diego and Santa Clara on Nov. 13 and 16.
ASU then stays at home for six games before traveling to State College to take on Penn State on Dec. 9, before taking a trip to the Pacific Northwest to play Oregon State, then Gonzaga on Dec. 14 and 16.
The Sun Devils then begin conference play at home against Colorado on Dec. 21 before playing their final game of 2025 at Utah on New Year's Eve.
ASU continues through the winter, with game nine of Big 12 play being the first of two matchups against UA on Jan. 28.
Only four games sit between the Sun Devils second matchup with the Wildcats, with a date on Valentine's Day scheduled in Tucson between the two rivals.
ASU plays its final home game on Feb. 25 against BYU before finishing the regular season in Lubbock against Texas Tech on March 1.
The Sun Devils will then travel to Kansas City to compete in the Big 12 Tournament, set to begin on March 4.
With a good enough season, ASU has the opportunity to make it back to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2018-19 season. With the Final Four set to take place in downtown Phoenix, a successful opening season in the Molly Miller era could produce a poetic close to the campaign.
Edited by Alan Deutschendorf, Henry Smardo and Ellis Preston.
Reach the reporter at aswift10@asu.edu and follow @alexswiftsports on X.
Kaos Hospitality, the development company behind the glamorous Three Thirty Three, which opened in December of 2024, announced its latest restaurant concept coming to Tempe. 212° Shabu Shabu, located at 410 N. Scottsdale Rd., is set to open this December.DEEPER DIVE: Top 10 Arizona ZIP codes people are moving to in 2025LOCAL NEWS: 100 best places to work and live in Arizona for 2025212° Shabu Shabu invites diners to explore the Japanese art of cooking with water while enjoying a ...
Kaos Hospitality, the development company behind the glamorous Three Thirty Three, which opened in December of 2024, announced its latest restaurant concept coming to Tempe. 212° Shabu Shabu, located at 410 N. Scottsdale Rd., is set to open this December.
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212° Shabu Shabu invites diners to explore the Japanese art of cooking with water while enjoying a selection of the finest meats, seafood and vegetables. The concept name refers to the boiling point of water, while the Japanese term “shabu shabu” translates to “swish, swish,” the sound that thin slices of meat and protein make when swished back and forth in boiling broth while cooking.
“212° Shabu Shabu is an interactive dining experience that brings the kitchen to you,” said John DeVries, CEO of Kaos Hospitality, who, together with Kaos Executive Vice President Haylee Nguyen, conceptualized the vision for their newest restaurant. “We want to educate our guests about the technique of ‘shabu shabu’ and encourage them to have fun while dipping and dunking delicious foods. There is no right or wrong way to ‘shabu.’ We’ll show you the traditional way and welcome you to eat however you want.”
The 212° Shabu Shabu menu is based around the bowl—literally. The main attraction at 212° Shabu Shabu is the tableside dining that serves as the education and entertainment portion of the guest experience. First, a kettle with guests’ choice of broth is brought to the table. Then the real fun begins.
The ingredients of each guest’s chosen bowl are then cooked on an induction range built into the table and presented before diners’ eyes. Options include choice of broth, preferred protein that is sliced to order and noodles, all served with a portion of rice, two house-made sauces and vegetables.
As one familiar with Three Thirty Three might expect, an elevated experience is status quo at 212° Shabu Shabu. For example, the protein choices include exclusive options such as A5 wagyu beef, toro fatty belly, Kurobuta pork, sashimi-grade salmon, black tiger shrimp and others.
Guests can also add on to their bowl with unique delicacies such as quail eggs, fish balls and lobster tail. In addition, diners can enhance their meal with shareable small plates such as shrimp tempura eggrolls, chicken karaage, vegetable spring rolls and cucumber salad. Dessert options include ube cheesecake, yuzu sorbet and more.
A signature cocktail menu will feature unique specialties such as the mango and sticky rice cocktail and the “Good Morning, Vietnam,” the restaurant’s elevated spin on an espresso martini made with Vietnamese coffee. Comprehensive beer and wine selections will be offered as well.
Like its sister concept, 212° Shabu Shabu’s interior design is a spectacular feast for the senses. Modern, vibrant and traditional nods to Japanese culture are evident throughout the restaurant.
Additional details about 212° Shabu Shabu’s opening are forthcoming. For more about 212° Shabu Shabu, visit https://212shabu.com/.