By Recker McDowell —
Vice President Mike Pence and YouTube star and cosmetics influencer Jeffree Star don’t have a lot in common on the surface.
But they do have a recent similarity. Both the conservative Pence and the not-so conservative Star were both recently in Scottsdale for events. Pence visited Scottsdale during a recent visit to Arizona and meeting with Gov. Doug Doug Ducey and U.S. Sen. Martha McSally. Star (who has 14.3 million Instagram followers) was at an event for fans with another cosmetics influencer Lipsticknick (791,000 Instagram followers).
That shows just how diverse and attractive Scottsdale is as a destination and place to be.
Scottsdale still has its roots in the arts, equestrian and cultural events and golf. WestWorld of Scottsdale is the only U.S. venue on the shortlist to host the International Equestrian World Championships in 2022.
But the city is also a sports destination, ranks as Arizona’s best foodie city and is also attractive to younger tourists and residents for the social scene as well as events like the one Star just headlined.
That says something about Scottsdale that is a place where both Pence and YouTube and Instagram influencers host events.
Scottsdale has an internationally known brand. But it does take efforts and investments. That means an economic development policy that builds on Scottsdale’s attractiveness to tech companies, creatives and younger workers.
It also means investing in the city’s current and future. Bond Questions 1, 2 and 3 on the November 5th ballot accomplish that. The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Civic Center Plaza, WestWorld of Scottsdale and Pinnacle Peak Park all get improvements in the 58-project, $319 million bond program.
Old Town Scottsdale will get pedestrian improvements and more public parking to better link residents and visitors to art galleries, cultural events, shopping and dining.
Scottsdale’s brand and amenities are diverse. The city should keep on investing in that brand including via Questions 1, 2 and 3.