In a rare and special moment in sports, fans are invited to join Actor Kevin Costner on Saturday, October 25th at 6:30pm at Scottsdale Stadium for a screening of the actor’s Oscar nominated film Field of Dreams following the championship game at the Western Wiffle Ball Classic.

To get FREE tickets to the movie night and the championship game visit BLWWiffleBall.com.

The Western Wiffle Ball Classic, which is attracting wiffleball players from around the country takes place from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7408 E Osborn Road, Scottsdale.

Costner’s role in the 1989 film Field of Dreams inspired countless backyard wiffle ball fields, a movement the film’s iconic quote, “If you build it, they will come,” perfectly captures. The film’s connection to baseball has led to public events, games, and it inspired fans to create their own “fields of dreams” in their backyards, often with wiffle ball.

Fans entering the stadium after 6:30pm will receive FREE admission and seating, which will includes stadium and in-field seating. All seats are first come first serve. No assigned seats.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be in the same stadium and watch Field of Dreams with Kevin Costner,” said Western Wiffle Ball League Founder Logan Rose. “I was one of those kids inspired by the movie and thanks to my parents we built our own wiffle ball field in my backyard so I could literally play on my own field of dreams and here we are today meeting the man who inspired it all.”

Rose, a Valley resident founded his own league and event as a teenager during the pandemic. Today the Western Wiffle Ball Classic is proud to welcome teams from more than 20 states, including Arizona, California, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, among multiple others, as they battle for bragging rights and a trophy on the same field the San Francisco Giants call home each spring.

In addition to featuring teams from across the nation, this year’s Western Wiffle Ball Classic will also welcome several particularly high-profile players, including Las Vegas, Nevada’s Jordan Bohnet and New York’s Jordan Robles.

“We’re excited to welcome some of the biggest names in the game to this year’s Western Wiffle Ball Classic in Scottsdale,” said Rose, “Attracting talent like Bohnet and Robles shows just how far this event has come and helps cement the Classic as one of the top wiffle ball events in the country.”

Teams playing in the Western Wiffle Ball Classic have between three and five players and register to compete in either Recreational or Competitive divisions, with strike zone dimensions, pitching distances and eligible equipment among the key differences between them. The top team in each division then walks away with a permanent place in Western Wiffle Ball Classic history.

In addition to the tournament itself, this year’s Western Wiffle Ball Classic will also include a Home Run Derby, giving players a chance to showcase their power at the plate as they compete for a separate trophy. 

To get free tickets or for teams interested in taking the field during Big League Wiffle Ball’s Western Wiffle Ball Classic can register to play at BLWWiffleBall.com. For more information, check out BLWWiffleBall.com or follow developments on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.

For sponsorship inquiries or general questions, email wiffleblw@gmail.com.

Canyon Trails Towne Center, a 90-acre mixed-use destination at the northeast corner of Cotton Lane and Yuma Road along the southbound Loop 303, has completed several new buildings and pads, enabling more than a dozen additional store and restaurant openings. The center, 100% leased for the past two years, is owned by the Santa Cruz Seaside Company, is being re-developed by Scottsdale Development Partners, and is managed by Vestar, one of the nation’s largest operators of open-air shopping centers.

The new retailers and dining stores now open for business include Burlington (20,000 sf), Ulta (8,000 sf), Rack Room Shoes (8,000 sf), Ono Hawaiian BBQ (2,850 sf), O’Reilly Auto Parts (7,228 sf), America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses (3,000 sf), Einstein’s Bagels (1,217 sf), Baskin Robbins (1,386 sf) and Hello Sugar (1,200 sf), and recently signed leases with Cox Communications (1,535 sf), Angry Chickz (2,467 sf), AT&T (2,435 sf), and MVB Title & Registration (1,400 sf).

With more than 63,000 square feet of new space delivered, Canyon Trails Towne Center now totals 492,344 square feet with 55 retailers open. In addition, City of Goodyear permits have been approved to build another 15,000 square foot multi-tenant shops building with construction expected to take 8 months.

In addition to the shopping component, Embrey Partners recently completed a large-scale multi-family development. The luxury apartments span across 13 acres and include 284 units in the northwest corner of the shopping center with approximately 65% of the units currently leased.

The current zoning for the project allows for a limited-service or extended-stay hotel, and the team is in active discussions with several potential hotel partners.

“Our team has worked hard to create what has become a trophy project for the City of Goodyear and the West Valley. We’ve been fortunate to combine alternative uses to create a truly mixed-use environment. First and foremost, we offer a highly successful retail destination that includes Super Target, which serves our customers’ daily needs, along with everyone’s favorite junior boxes, specialty shops and dining,” said David Malin, president of Scottsdale Development Partners.

Malin, who was the original developer of the center while with Vestar, has been the lead consultant on the redevelopment of the project since 2018 and was instrumental in getting the shopping center to where it is today. He says the sales volume and traffic at the center continue to exceed expectations and grow year after year. 

“Sales at the center continue to grow. Our retailers’ sales volumes are in the top 10% of their stores in the Phoenix metropolitan market and there is no slowing down. The economic boom in the West Valley has been like a tidal wave these past 4 to 5 years, a welcome sight after enduring many years of hard times after the recession in 2008,” said Malin.

Canyon Trails Towne Center is currently anchored by Super Target, Ross, PetSmart, Michael’s and Pottery Barn Outlet.  Other existing retailers in the shopping center include Orange Theory Fitness, Starbuck’s, Chipotle, Wingstop, Freddy’s Steakburgers, Club Pilates, Apex Physical Therapy, Clean Your Dirty Face, Pacific Dental, Tropical Smoothie Café, My Dr. Now, KFC, Carl’s Jr., Jack in the Box, Cobblestone Carwash, and Christian Brothers.

New Store Marks a Significant Milestone in Queen Creek’s Retail Expansion and Grows Target’s Presence in Arizona

Vestar, one of the largest privately held shopping center owners and managers in the western United States, has announced the highly anticipated grand opening of Target at Vineyard Towne Center in Queen Creek, Arizona. The 145,000-square-foot store will officially open its doors to the public at 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, becoming the second Target location in Queen Creek and the 48th in the state of Arizona.

Located at 37854 N. Gantzel Road, the new Target will add 160 new jobs and feature an extensive selection of guest services and amenities, including a CVS Pharmacy, Target Optical, a Disney Store, an Apple Store and an in-store Starbucks. The location will also offer convenient fulfillment options such as Drive Up, Order Pickup, same-day delivery with a Target Circle 360 membership, and next-day delivery for all Queen Creek residents.

“There’s a lot of excitement surrounding Target’s arrival at Vineyard Towne Center,” said Taylor Alvey, Vice President of Leasing at Vestar. “By blending trusted national retailers like Target with a diverse mix of local shopping, dining and service providers, Vineyard Towne Center is becoming a true community destination for residents and visitors alike.”

The new store will be open during the week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Target joins a dynamic roster of retailers, restaurants and service providers already open at Vineyard Towne Center, including Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain America Credit Union, Academy Bank, LifeQuest, Cadence Running Company, Verizon, Mattress Firm, My Doc Now, Pet Supplies Plus, Zara Nail Bar, Dentists of Queen Creek, Keep It Cut, European Wax Center and Crown One Beauty Supply. Dining options include Five Guys, Better Buzz Coffee, Thai Chili 2Go, McDonald’s, Over Easy, Café Rio, Cinnaholic, Zaxby’s, Nekter Juice Bar, Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop, Wingstop and Ono Hawaiian BBQ.

Vineyard Towne Center is one of several Vestar developments serving Queen Creek and the surrounding region, one of the fastest-growing communities in the greater Phoenix metro area. Vestar also owns and operates Queen Creek Marketplace and manages Queen Creek Crossing, with all three retail destinations experiencing strong tenant growth and sustained community demand.

For more about Vineyard Towne Center or to view a full directory, visit VineyardTowneCenter.com.

For more about Vestar, visit Vestar.com.

From an exhibit devoted to the West’s most well-known and notorious outlaw and a display of miniature artwork, to Hopi pottery masterpieces, film series and much more, the Western Spirit offers something for everyone

The temperatures outside are finally starting to cool down, but things are definitely heating up at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. This fall, the museum offers more than two dozen exciting exhibitions, programs and events for visitors to enjoy.

“We’re delighted to share such a wide variety of new artwork this season, along with films, speakers, and special programs that bring new perspectives to the West,” said Todd Bankofier, CEO at Western Spirit. “Whether you’ve visited us many times before or are brand new to Western art, we invite you to join us and enjoy all that we have planned for this fall.”

The museum is located in Old Town Scottsdale at 3830 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ, 85251.

The exhibitions, programs, and events at Western Spirit this fall are:

The Resurrection of Billy the Kid – Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West and True West Magazine opens October 4^th and combines forces to bring the West’s most notorious outlaw back to life. Bob Boze Bell’s high-voltage historical paintings of what “really” happened during the face off with Thom Ross’s surreal re-imaginings of the Kid’s life as a fevered frontier dance. There is also a haunting, life-size sculpture of Billy on his death bed by Buckeye Blake, staged like a wake complete with candles, curtains, and a guest book for mourners.

Guests are also invited to join the film series:  Dead or Alive: Billy the Kid at the Movies which will run from October 12 to December 14, 2025. Get more details here https://westernspirit.org/project/billy-the-kid/

The films running include:

• Young Guns, Sunday, October 12 at 2 p.m.
• Chisum, Wednesday, October 15 at 2 p.m.,
• Billy the Kid, Sunday, October 19 at 2 p.m.
• Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid; the 50th Anniversary Cut, Sunday, October 29 at 2 p.m.
• The Left-Handed Gun, Sunday, November 2 at 2 p.m.
• Old Henry, Sunday, November 9 at 2 p.m.
• The Outlaw, Sunday, November 23 at 2 p.m.
• The Kid, Sunday, November 30 at 2 p.m.
• Billy the Kid, Sunday, December 7 at 2 p.m.
• Young Guns II, Sunday, December 14 at 2 p.m.SALOON NITE! – The Celebrity Poker & Casino Charity Fundraiser will take place on Saturday, October 11th, 2025. Step into Western Spirit’s brand-new Louis Sands IV Center. For one night only, the museum is turning into a high-energy poker and casino party packed with poker, craps, roulette, blackjack, dinner, spirits, live country music, celeb photo opportunities and prizes. Featuring ranked World Series of Poker celebrities—including WSOP Main Event Champion Steven Jones, fresh off his $6.5 million win! Get tickets online at https://westernspirit.org/saloon-nite/.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration with Yellow Bird Productions. The program brings together storytelling, dance, music, and tradition in honor of Native cultures, including a performance by storyteller and flute player Ken Duncan, The Healing Dance with Doreen Duncan, and a performance by Champion Hoop Dancer Talon Duncan. Guests are also invited to enjoy a reception afterwards in the courtyard.   The program runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, October 13, 2025.

Mac Schweitzer: A Southwest Maverick Rediscovered opens October 18^th, 2025.  Rediscover the remarkable life and work of mid-century artist Mac Schweitzer (1921-1962), once renowned as a mid-twentieth century painter of the people, animals, and landscapes of the south. Six decades after the artist’s death, guest curator Ann Lane Hedlund has rediscovered an artistic legacy full of intriguing stories and a fascinating, diverse body of artwork never before seen in public.  Guests are also invited to explore deeper with the program,

Who Was Mac Schweitzer? Understanding the Artist and Her Motives by Ann Lane Hedlund, PhD Opening October 18^th, 2025.  Join author and retired University of Arizona Professor, Ann Lane Hedlund, as she discusses the work of artist Mac Schweitzer. Hedlund donated almost 500 items of Schweitzer’s art to the museum in memory of her late husband and Mac’s son, Kit Schweitzer for the exhibit of The program is from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Robert Rodriguez: Cinema Sin Fronteras Film Series – Western Spirit celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a dynamic film series spotlighting the groundbreaking work of Robert Rodriguez—one of American cinema’s most inventive and influential storytellers. From El Mariachi to Spy Kids to Machete, Rodriguez redefined Latino representation on screen, casting Mexican American actors not as sidekicks or stereotypes but as action heroes, family adventurers, and pop culture icons. It runs now through October 22, 2025.

The Amazing Kolb Brothers of Grand Canyon by Roger Naylor – Arizona travel writer Roger Naylor will discuss his book The Amazing Kolb Brothers of Grand Canyon which covers the remarkable life of two of the Canyon’s most significant pioneers and legendary photographers. The program is from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Documentary Film Series– Jews of the Wild West – This feature length documentary is about resilience and identity in an unexpected place – the American West. The film tells a positive immigration story and highlights the dynamic contributions Jewish Americans made to shaping the Western United States. The program is from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 26 and Sunday, November 16.

Arizona Celebration of The International Year of Rangeland and Pastoralists (IYRP) 2026 – highlights the United Nations’ International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. This global initiative recognizes the critical role rangelands play in sustaining communities, economies, and ecosystems worldwide—and Arizona’s rangelands are at the heart of that story.  This evening program brings together leading voices in conservation, ranching, and policy to explore how Arizona’s landscapes are shaping innovative collaborations and global conversations about the future of rangelands. Guests will gain insights into how local work connects to international priorities and why protecting these lands matters more than ever.  This is more than a program—it’s a chance to engage with an international effort while celebrating Arizona’s leadership in sustaining rangelands for future generations. The program runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

The West in Miniature – This gallery is filled with tiny treasures — each one a scaled-down window into the art and culture of the American West. Here you’ll see tiny paintings, sculptures, ceramics, carvings, and more — organized not by size or date. but by the stories they tell. On view through December, 2026.

People, Places, Predicaments: John Clymer’s West – This exhibit, which is sponsored by Scottsdale Art Auction, features over 50 paintings by John Ford Clymer from the Eddie Basha Collection. Clymer (1907-1989) was an extraordinary artist whose work vividly captured the spirit of exploration and adventure of the American West. In a career that spanned six decades, Clymer was acclaimed for his meticulous depictions of explorers, fur trappers, American Indians of the early 1800s. This is the last month to see the exhibit, as its only on view through October 26, 2025.

Collecting Stories: John Coleman Bronzes from the Collection of Frankie and Howard Alper – This exhibit features a selection of bronzes from the Alper Family’s collection, including the 10-piece Explorer Artist Series, inspired by the 19th century paintings of George Catlin and Karl Bodmer.

Courage & Crossroads: A Visual Journey through the American West –

Meriwether Lewis’ presentation style pipe tomahawk and other rare Native American objects serve as the centerpiece of this story of America’s West in the 19th and early 20th centuries. More than 100 paintings and sculptures by artists ranging from Thomas Moran and Alfred Jacob Miller to Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, and vintage photographs by Edward S. Curtis add to the narrative.

The A.P. Hays Spirit of the West Collection – See a collection of 1,400 Old West items from Scottsdale gallerist Abe Hays, including revolvers, rifles, saddles, knives, holsters, spurs, chaps, badges and more. While every artifact on display captures a part of our history, many are exceedingly rare.

For more information about the exhibits, event and programs, including admission prices and to purchase tickets, visit https://westernspirit.org/.

Western Spirit Memberships start at $75 for two guests and ticket prices run as following; $28 for adults, $25 for seniors and military, $12 for students and children 6 – 17 years of age and FREE for kids 5 and under. Tickets for individual programs are just $10.

Scottsdale Unified School District is facing a difficult decision that’s sending ripples through our community: the potential closure and repurposing of two neighborhood schools. And the choice they’re seemingly leaning towards is the wrong one.

Scottsdale Unified is considering repurposing Pima Elementary and Echo Canyon K-8 School, citing low student enrollment as the primary reason. Both schools currently have fewer than 300 students enrolled. This isn’t just a Scottsdale problem: Valley-wide, districts are facing declining enrollment and rising operating costs, forcing administrators to make tough choices about resource allocation.

But they are taking the wrong approach to this. Instead of looking to compete, they are looking to capitulate. Instead of looking to improve, they are rewarding failure.

The schools under consideration serve distinct Scottsdale neighborhoods. Pima Elementary, located near Osborn and Granite Reef roads in south Scottsdale, has served the community since 1959 and was rebuilt shortly before the pandemic. Echo Canyon Elementary, near 62nd Street and Camelback Road, opened in 1990.

These are true neighborhood schools where generations of families have built connections and memories.

But they are looking at this the wrong way… this is more a story about competitiveness and potential opportunities for improvement. Let me explain…

You don’t have to be a parent to know that public schools have some competition now. With the ESA program and the often extremely permissive usage of taxpayer funds for charter and private schools, the traditional public school has to work a bit harder to keep students. Does moving them into already packed classrooms accomplish this, or will it push parents to put their students in the smaller classrooms and more attentive teachers of charter or private schools?

Leadership is choosing disruption and destroying community anchors over repurposing and reinvention. And this is after Pima received an $18 million rebuild just years ago.

SUSD could find a way to take advantage of those smaller class sizes. To level up the education that is provided to those students and more effectively compete against the alternatives. To provide a classic win-win.

Imagine an added arts focus for an amazing Echo Canyon campus. Or brilliant new interactive science labs for Pima. Imagine an engaging educational product…if you can do that, congratulations, you’re doing more than SUSD leadership can.

Scottsdale has built its reputation on quality education, but our state also has a reputation for reinvention and ingenuity. This might be the perfect opportunity to utilize those skills in a way that benefits everyone, but especially our public schools and their students. Instead we have leadership that has had years to figure out these issues and have failed us. And if they can’t think or create their way out of a paper bag, then we need to put in leaders who can.

By Alexander Lomax

Congressman David Schweikert

Congressman David Schweikert has decided that after eight terms in the House, he’s ready for a promotion…or at least a different title. The longtime Republican representative has dropped his congressional reelection bid to run for Arizona governor, presumably because dealing with Congress wasn’t quite frustrating enough.

Here’s the thing about Schweikert’s gubernatorial ambitions: he’ll face U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs and businesswoman Karrin Taylor Robson in the Republican primary. That’s right, two candidates who already have name recognition and established campaign operations. Schweikert is jumping into a race that’s about as welcoming as asphalt in July. Both Biggs and Taylor Robson have Trump endorsements, while Schweikert brings… well, his congressional voting record and a willingness to leave a competitive seat behind. Bold strategy, let’s see how it plays out.

Schweikert’s departure has turned Arizona’s 1st Congressional District into open season. Dr. Amish Shah, who narrowly lost to Schweikert by approximately 4 points in the most recent election, announced his 2026 candidacy and faces a crowded Democratic primary field that includes Marlene Galan Woods. On the Republican side, there are many, MANY rumored candidates, ranging from sports luminaries such as Danica Patrick and former ASU coach Todd Graham, to battle-tested winning politicos such as Matt Gress, Joseph Chaplik, and Justin Wilmeth. Regardless of who is just a rumor and who is real, there should be no doubt that a handful of legitimate power players and compelling candidates are having conversations about this race right now.

Let’s be honest about what this all means for the average Arizonan: you’re about to be absolutely buried in political communications. We’re talking mailers stuffed in your mailbox daily, YouTube ads you can’t skip, Facebook feeds clogged with “URGENT” campaign messages, and television commercials that make you nostalgic for pharmaceutical ads.

The congressional race is currently considered a “toss-up” by Cook Political Report, which means both parties will throw enormous resources at it. Add in the governor’s race, and Arizona voters are essentially going to spend most of 2026 as unwilling participants in a political bombardment campaign.

There may be one saving grace…for the first time in what seems like half of a century, there won’t be a U.S. Senate seat in play next year. But that is little comfort as the statewide races will be expensive ones, leaving aside this Congressional race which could plausibly exceed $40 million in spending in total…just in a Congressional district. The campaign ads will be constant and they will be brutal.

Stock up on patience now…you’re going to need it.

The 26th Annual Scottsdale Firefighters Charities Dinner at Mastro’s City Hall proved once again why this event has become one of the Valley’s premier charitable gatherings. With a goal of exceeding last year’s record-breaking $100,000 raised, the evening celebrated both the selfless work of Scottsdale’s 300 firefighters and three remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of community service.

The 2025 CARE Awards, standing for Contribute to Achievement and Re-define Excellence, honored an inspiring trio. Max Ashton, who overcame being born mostly blind to become the youngest blind person to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, now serves the Foundation of Blind Children, advocating tirelessly for those with visual impairments. DJ Foster, the legendary Saguaro High School standout who went on to play for the New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals, currently mentors the next generation as Director of Player Development at Arizona State. And Autumn Curiel, who transformed unimaginable tragedy into powerful action after losing her son Preston Lord to teen violence, co-founded Justice 4 Preston Lord to combat youth violence and empower victims across Arizona.

The evening also recognized Chad Gibby as Firefighter of the Year; a 26-year veteran whose dedication to training engineers, mentoring recruits, and serving with professionalism has made him indispensable to the department and beloved by his peers.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of sponsors who understand the value of investing in community safety and charitable giving. Title sponsor HonorHealth led an impressive roster of generous sponsors listed below.

The Scottsdale Firefighters Association, staffed by members of Local 5050, doesn’t just protect the city…they consistently give back, supporting organizations like Scottsdale JAG, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, Vista Del Camino Food Bank, and the 100 Club of Arizona. From Fill the Boot campaigns to toy drives, these firefighters prove that heroism extends far beyond emergency responses.

In a world that often focuses on division, this dinner reminded us what’s possible when community leaders, generous sponsors, and dedicated public servants unite around a common purpose: making Scottsdale and the Valley a better place for everyone.

Thank you to our generous sponsors: 

Honor Health

The Bob Ramsey Social Justice Foundation

Galloway Financial

Maricopa Ambulance 

Mercedes Benz of Scottsdale

The Hatten Family Trust 

Optima 

Riot Hospitality Group

Scottsdale Quarter / George Kurtz

East Valley Institute of Technology 

HCW / Ceasar’s Republic

M Culinary Concepts

Rose Allyn Public and Online Relations

Scottsdale Charros

Baker Development 

Collector’s Garage at WestWorld 

Yam Holdings / Bob Parsons 

Peachtree Partners

Pro em

All City Towing 

Savannah Bananas. Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times

While we may not have a major league team, Scottsdale is synonymous with baseball come springtime. But now Scottsdale baseball fans have something new, wild, and wacky to get excited about in 2026: Banana Ball is coming to town. Well, sort of.

For those unfamiliar, Banana Ball is the brainchild of the Savannah Bananas, a baseball entertainment phenomenon that’s been taking the country by storm. This isn’t your grandfather’s baseballit’; s a wacky, fast-paced style of play featuring creative rules that put fans inside the action. Players stop mid-game for dance breaks and perform trick moves designed to get crowds on their feet. Think Harlem Globetrotters meet America’s pastime, baseball meets the TikTok generation.

The Bananas have become so popular that founder Jesse Cole drew 2.2 million fans this year and expects that number to grow to 3.3 million in 2026. That explosive growth has led to the creation of the Banana Ball Championship League, expanding the concept beyond just one team.

Here’s the good news for Scottsdale: two teams from this new league—The Firefighters and Texas Tailgaters—will square off at Salt River Fields on March 28-29. It’s an exciting opportunity to experience this fresh take on baseball entertainment right in our backyard.

The not-so-great news? The Savannah Bananas themselves won’t be stopping in the Valley of the Sun. While getting any Banana Ball action is certainly a win, it’s a bit like getting the opening band when you really wanted the headliner. The Bananas are the original, the team that started this whole movement, and their absence from Scottsdale feels like a missed opportunity.

Still, this is a positive development for Scottsdale’s sports scene. With tickets available through a lottery system open until October 31, local fans should jump on this chance to see what all the buzz is about…even if the main attraction is playing elsewhere.

Photo Credit: Giants.com

Former Arizona State running back and recreational bulldozer Cam Skattebo, drafted by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, is making waves in the Big Apple, a media market that is well known as as hot of a spotlight as it gets in sports. His success is reverberating all the way back to Tempe, where it’s elevating both the Sun Devils program and head coach Kenny Dillingham’s national profile.

Skattebo’s signature backflip celebration after scoring a two-point conversion against the Chargers captured national attention, earning coverage from People magazine and generating viral moments that remind the sports world of Arizona State’s resurgence. Pro Football Focus named him to their rookie team of the week, Sports Illustrated profiled his bruising running style, and Newsweek called him “a glimmer of hope” for a Giants team searching for playmakers, especially with the devastating news of 2nd year wide receiver star-in-the-making Malik Nabers tearing his ACL.

For Arizona State, this mainstream recognition is invaluable. Skattebo is handling a workhorse role with 25 carries in recent games, demonstrating the durability and toughness that Dillingham’s program is building its identity around. The young head coach, who attended high school in Scottsdale before becoming an ASU alumnus, is proving he can develop NFL-caliber talent despite inheriting a program in turmoil.

The timing couldn’t be better. It’s been over two decades since Arizona State produced an NFL star with this level of immediate popularity and cultural impact. The last Sun Devil to generate comparable buzz was Terrell Suggs, who broke the NCAA sack record in 2002, became a first-round pick, and went on to a Hall of Fame career with 139 career sacks and two Super Bowl rings.

Skattebo’s emergence validates Dillingham’s recruiting pitch and coaching philosophy. When elite high school prospects see a fourth-round pick becoming a featured player and fan favorite in the NFL’s largest media market, it sends a powerful message: Arizona State can be a pipeline to professional football again.

For a program that’s rebuilding its reputation, Skattebo’s backflips aren’t just entertaining—they’re branding gold, reminding the nation that Sun Devil football matters again.

Photo Credit: ABC 15

Scottsdale wears many labels. To some, it’s a world-class golf destination. To others, it’s a vibrant nightlife hub or a luxurious tourist retreat. But beneath the polished exterior and glamorous reputation lies something far more meaningful: a genuine community that rallies around its own when it matters most.

The story of Coach Brown at Grayhawk Elementary School perfectly captures this spirit. When the newly-hired physical education teacher faced a life-threatening health crisis just months into her first year, complications from bladder cancer, the community response was immediate and overwhelming.

Coach Brown had quickly become beloved at the school, launching a cross-country program, expanding after-school sports, revitalizing Field Day, and even introducing pickleball to PE classes. Her dedication to the students was evident, but what happened next revealed the true character of Scottsdale residents.

Parents, teachers, and students didn’t just send well-wishes. They organized fundraisers, arranged food deliveries, and made regular visits to ensure Coach Brown knew she wasn’t facing this battle alone. Strangers became family, transforming what could have been an isolating, terrifying diagnosis into a story of collective love and support.

This week, Coach Brown returned full-time to Grayhawk Elementary, her recovery a testament not just to medical care, but to the healing power of community compassion.

This is the Scottsdale that doesn’t always make headlines. It’s not about designer boutiques or championship golf courses…it’s about neighbors showing up for each other. It’s about recognizing that behind every teacher, every small business owner, every resident, is a person worthy of support and dignity.

So yes, Scottsdale is a tourist destination and a golfing paradise. But more importantly, it’s a place where a community can transform a first-year teacher’s darkest moment into proof that she matters, that she belongs, and that she’s never truly alone. That’s the Scottsdale worth celebrating.

Alexandra Gehrke and Jeffrey King. Photo Credit: Scottsdale Progress

A shocking healthcare fraud case unfolding in Scottsdale serves as a stark reminder that even in our affluent community, vulnerable residents need protection from medical exploitation. Alexandra Gehrke and Jeffrey King, dubbed the “glam-flam couple,” admitted to fraudulently billing insurance companies over $1 billion, targeting some of our community’s most defenseless members.

The scale of this operation is staggering. The couple specifically targeted elderly Medicare patients, many terminally ill in hospice care, for medically unnecessary wound grafts, ultimately collecting over $600 million from Medicare and other healthcare programs. These weren’t victimless crimes; real people, facing their final days, became unwitting pawns in an elaborate scheme that prioritized profit over dignity.

What makes this particularly disturbing is how quickly it escalated. Starting at the end of 2022, Gehrke and King stole hundreds of millions in barely more than a year. They built an entire network of complicit healthcare workers, demonstrating how easily our healthcare system’s trust-based foundation can be exploited.

For Scottsdale families, this case offers crucial lessons. When elderly loved ones receive home health services or hospice care, oversight matters. Ask questions about treatments, understand billing statements, and be skeptical of providers pushing expensive procedures on vulnerable patients. The prosecution revealed that Gehrke wooed co-conspirators with promises of immediate riches and devised a business model that rewarded greed at the expense of patient care.

With Gehrke’s sentencing now scheduled for October 7 and King’s for October 10, prosecutors are recommending at least 20 years for Gehrke, calling it “one of the most financially impactful health care fraud schemes in American history”.

While our community waits for justice, we must commit to vigilance. Healthcare fraud thrives in silence and complacency. By staying informed and advocating for our vulnerable neighbors, we can help prevent future exploitation and ensure Scottsdale remains a community that truly cares for its most fragile members.

Scottsdale has officially claimed the crown as America’s premier golf destination for 2025, and the implications for Arizona’s tourism industry are nothing short of extraordinary. According to The Action Network’s comprehensive analysis of over 400 U.S. cities, Scottsdale’s combination of exceptional course availability, reasonable lodging costs, and perfect weather creates an unbeatable formula that’s driving substantial economic impact across the state.

The numbers tell a compelling story. With 25 public golf courses per 100,000 residents (the highest concentration in the nation) Scottsdale has transformed itself into a golfer’s paradise. But this achievement extends far beyond city limits. Arizona’s dominance in the rankings, with five cities in the top 20 (including Yuma at #3, Goodyear at #7, Mesa at #11, and Phoenix at #16), positions the entire state as the undisputed golf capital of America.

For Arizona’s tourism sector, this recognition is invaluable. Golf tourism represents a lucrative market segment that brings visitors during both peak and off-seasons, filling hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues year-round. The relatively affordable lodging costs, around $1,080 for a five-day stay in Scottsdale, make Arizona accessible to a broader range of golf enthusiasts compared to pricier coastal alternatives.

The economic ripple effects are substantial. Golf tourists typically stay longer, spend more, and return repeatedly, creating sustained revenue streams for local businesses. From resort properties and golf equipment retailers to restaurants and transportation services, the entire hospitality ecosystem benefits from Arizona’s golf tourism magnetism.

As climate change makes other traditional golf destinations less predictable, Arizona’s year-round sunshine and minimal rainfall become increasingly valuable assets. This natural advantage, combined with world-class course design and infrastructure investments, ensures that Arizona, led by Scottsdale, will remain at the forefront of American golf tourism for years to come, cementing the state’s reputation as a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Arizona Progress & Gazette recently obtained some data from a poll conducted last month in Scottsdale, and it should give numerous audiences reasons to squirm.

The poll was conducted by a highly respected local polling firm and surveyed 400 Scottsdale voters late last month.

Axon’s favorability rating is just 23.9%. The Scottsdale based taser manufacturer has been battling citizens and city hall over its unpopular plans to build about 2,000 apartments at the site of its new headquarters near Hayden and the101.  The corporate HQ was previously approved.

Axon also went on a spending spree at the Arizona Legislature and got a law passed to block a public vote on those apartments. Axon’s total unfavorable rating is 19%. The rest are neutral or have no opinion.

The Axon law is even more unpopular than the company. Just 17.2% agree with a law that threatens to tase an election on Axon’s apartment proposal. 75.8% oppose this special interest legislation. Only 7% are neutral or undecided.  Here is how the question was posed:
After Scottsdale residents gathered enough signatures to place the Axon development project on the 2026 ballot, the state legislature-at Axon’s urging-passed a new law, signed by Governor Hobbs, that blocks certain local referendums related to zoning decisions. This change effectively allowed the Axon project to move forward without a public vote. Regardless of your opinion on the Axon project, do you agree or disagree with the state passing a law that limits the ability of local voters to challenge city decisions through a public referendum?

Survey results that dealt with development and traffic may explain why Axon and its legislation are cratering in the poll.

58.8% say the number of new apartments recently built in Scottsdale is too much, 8% say it is too little, and 26.8% say the number of new apartments being built in Scottsdale is about right.

The survey said 56% feel there is too much real estate development in Scottsdale, 7.4% say it’s not enough, while 32.1% say it’s about right.

77.6% of those surveyed say traffic is congested in Scottsdale. 20.2% say local traffic is not congested, and only 2.2% have no opinion.

While the poll finds Scottsdale dislikes special interest legislation, the rate of development and traffic, residents do like their firefighters. The Scottsdale Firefighters Association has a favorability rating of 72.8%.  Its unfavorable rating is just 3.7%. 20% are neutral or have no opinion.

The recent results suggest any development proposal in Scottsdale these days is a difficult sell and that reducing opposition and/or justifying a need is a prerequisite for approval, because the electorate remains ornery, which was the primary reason for the significant council turnover that took place in 2024.

By Scottsdale City Councilwoman Jan Dubauskas

Scottsdale is a wonderful place to live, work, and play. And much of that is due to our incredible and hard-working Scottsdale Police & Fire Departments.

Last week, we kicked off the all-new Public Safety Council Committee. It is my honor to be elected Chairwoman by my colleagues, Councilman Kwasman and Councilwoman Littlefield. Together, we will work to continue to deliver you a safe Scottsdale! If you have any questions, suggestions concerns or kudos for our public safety team, please feel free to email me at: jdubauskas@scottsdaleaz.gov.

Jan’s Ordinance #3 – No Standing On Medians

Scottsdale Police Chief LeDuc and I met for coffee a few months ago. While we were talking, he expressed concern for a significant safety issue: pedestrians standing in medians on busy streets. He said that it is unsafe for the pedestrians as well as for the distracted drivers. I agreed – and we decided to see what we could do to make our streets safer.

We quickly started working with our Interim City Attorney, Luis Santaella – and together, we drafted a new ordinance. On August 25, 2025, Council voted 7-0 to pass the ordinance and it became effective on September 25, 2025.

Thank you to Chief LeDuc, Interim City Attorney Luis Santaella, and my colleagues for supporting this important safety measure. Click here to see some of the news coverage on our ordinance.

As a reminder: Ordinance #1 – Improve traffic by removing unnecessary construction traffic barriers. Ordinance #2 – No smoking within 50 feet of city playgrounds. We are working hard and delivering results for you!

Sometimes being edgy and fun crosses a line, and sometimes the line is drawn in exactly the wrong place. The recent ban of Graveyard Shift Coffee from Mayo Clinic Scottsdale presents a fascinating case study in where creative branding meets institutional sensitivity, and honestly, both sides missed the mark.

Let’s start with the obvious: naming drinks “Formaldehyde,” “Murder Spice,” and “Bloody Eye” while serving a hospital that focuses on cancer research shows a stunning lack of situational awareness. When your target customers are healthcare workers dealing with life-and-death situations daily, maybe dial back the mortality-themed humor just a notch.

But here’s where it gets complicated. Graveyard Shift Coffee is specifically designed to serve hospital night shift workers, with a smiling skeleton logo dressed in scrubs and a stethoscope. The concept isn’t inherently malicious—it’s clearly meant to embrace the gallows humor that healthcare workers use to cope with their demanding jobs. The company serves multiple hospitals including Phoenix Children’s and HonorHealth, typically operating from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The problem wasn’t the concept; it was the execution. There’s a difference between understanding your audience and reading the room. Night shift nurses appreciate dark humor, but families waiting in cancer treatment areas? Not so much. A more thoughtful approach might have involved location-specific branding or at least recognizing that Mayo Clinic’s patient population might warrant a different approach than other hospitals.

Mayo’s ban feels somewhat heavy-handed, especially considering the truck successfully operates at other medical facilities. As one frustrated commenter noted, “Night shift can’t have anything nice.” The overwhelming support from healthcare workers, over 1,600 likes and 300 comments defending the coffee truck, suggests the ban may be more about corporate image management than genuine concern.

Ultimately, this controversy highlights the challenge of niche marketing in sensitive environments. Graveyard Shift Coffee isn’t tasteless…it’s just not thoughtful enough. A little more consideration for context and audience could have prevented this entirely. Sometimes the difference between clever and crass comes down to simply thinking before you brew.

By Alexander Lomax

In the face of consistent pressure and bullying, the fight for Scottsdale’s soul took a decisive turn this week as brave residents refused to bow down. And yes, it again ties back to our least favorite corporate citizen.

Taxpayers Against Awful Apartment Zoning Exemptions (TAAAZE) has filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of legislation specifically crafted to benefit one arrogant corporation: Axon.You already know about its unwanted apartment megacomplex plans (get our full coverage here), but this isn’t just about apartments…it’s about democracy itself. The new law requires cities with populations between 200,000 and 500,000 to allow hotels and multifamily residential housing in areas zoned for light industrial use without needing public hearings. Translation? Axon gets to bypass the voice of nearly 27,000 Scottsdale residents who signed petitions opposing this monstrosity.

TAAAZE Chairman Bob Littlefield didn’t mince words: “It’s time to let this arrogant company know they can’t force Scottsdale to accept an unprecedented apartment complex without a public vote. And certainly not without a fight.” That’s exactly the kind of backbone our community needs against corporate overreach.

The lawsuit targets two fundamental constitutional violations. First, it protects our right to referendum, the sacred principle that voters can challenge legislation they oppose. Second, it challenges Arizona’s ban on “special laws” that grant privileges to specific companies. As lead counsel Alexis Danneman explained, “The Axon bill passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor is the very definition of special interest legislation and it is illegal in the state of Arizona.”

Axon’s response? Predictably dismissive. Their spokesman called this lawsuit Littlefield’s “latest tactic to stall progress,” completely missing the point. This isn’t about stalling progress, it’s about protecting our community from corporate greed masquerading as economic development. It’s about protecting our ability to use our voice and our vote.

The fact remains: Axon wants to build what would be Arizona’s largest apartment complex, nearly 1,900 units, in a community that overwhelmingly opposes it. They’ve used every dirty trick in the book, from paying petition blockers to pushing through special-interest legislation.

But Scottsdale residents aren’t backing down. This lawsuit proves that when corporations try to steamroll communities, people will fight back. David may be smaller than Goliath, but he’s got something Axon doesn’t: the moral high ground and an entire community behind him.

By Ronald Sampson

Effective September 25, 2025, Scottsdale implemented a new ordinance making it illegal to stand on traffic medians for more than two traffic light cycles on streets with speed limits above 30 mph. Violators face Class 3 misdemeanor charges, with potential fines up to $500 and jail time up to 30 days.

While city officials frame this as a traffic safety measure, it’s relatively obvious what this ordinance is really targeting: panhandling. Scottsdale Police Public Information Officer Aaron Bolin acknowledged as much, noting the challenges of people “trying to solicit for money” in the heat and directing them toward city resources like food banks instead.

The ordinance allows brief use of medians as crossing refuges but prohibits extended stays, a distinction that clearly separates legitimate pedestrian use from solicitation activities. Critics have rightfully pointed out that this essentially criminalizes homelessness and poverty, turning a social issue into a legal one.

Let’s be honest: none of us particularly enjoy being approached by panhandlers, and their presence on busy medians isn’t exactly the postcard image that tourism-dependent Scottsdale wants to project. The city’s economy thrives on its reputation as an upscale desert destination, and visible homelessness can undermine that carefully cultivated brand.

However, it’s unfortunate that it takes a law like this to address the problem. Rather than tackling root causes like affordable housing, mental health services, and job training programs, the city has chosen the path of criminalization. While the ordinance may clear the medians, it doesn’t make homelessness disappear; it simply pushes it elsewhere or forces it underground.

Scottsdale’s approach reflects a broader trend of cities using ordinances to manage visible poverty rather than investing in comprehensive solutions. While the immediate safety and aesthetic concerns may be addressed, the underlying issues that drive people to panhandle remain unresolved, making this feel more like municipal theater than meaningful policy.

Supervisor Thomas Galvin

After the heartbreak of losing our beloved Arizona Coyotes in 2024, a beacon of hope has emerged from an unexpected but powerful source: Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Thomas Galvin. In the process he is exemplifying exactly the kind of bold, visionary leadership our state needs.

Galvin didn’t just make empty promises; he took decisive action by forming an advisory committee to explore bringing an NHL team back to Arizona, recognizing that “people miss the team.” This isn’t political posturing; it’s genuine leadership responding to the passion of Arizona hockey fans who refuse to let their sport die in the desert.

The chairman’s proactive approach has already yielded results, with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman confirming he met with Galvin via Zoom before Christmas. This direct engagement with the league’s top leadership demonstrates Galvin’s serious commitment and political acumen. He understands that bringing professional hockey back requires more than hope…it demands strategic planning, community support, and sustainable business models.

The recent appointment of Andrea Doan as Chair of the Advisory Panel on Pro Hockey represents another masterstroke, tapping into the hockey community’s deepest roots through the wife of Shane Doan, the beloved face of the Coyotes franchise and the franchise’s most iconic player.

Arizona has always been a state of reinvention and resilience. From our emergence as a hockey market to our passionate fan base that supported the team through decades of challenges, we’ve proven that desert hockey isn’t just viable, it’s vital to our community’s identity.

Chairman Galvin’s leadership gives us something we haven’t had in years: realistic hope grounded in action. His vision for sustainable, smart hockey development could finally deliver the stable franchise Arizona deserves. The ice may have melted, but our dreams haven’t—and with leaders like Thomas Galvin fighting for us, they never will.

By Julie Pace, Town Councilmember

Thanks to the hard work and diligence of Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton and Town Manager Andrew Ching, our beloved PV Post Office, which has been around for more than 60 years, is being removed from the closure list after the United States Postal Service informed the town of their plans to shut it down.

Mayor Stanton has had his hands full managing and overcoming the challenges presented to preserve PV and to ensure smooth and efficient operations for the Town.

Mayor Mark Stanton is a calm voice to lead, is respectful of all and wants the best interests of the Town. This is who he is. Please thank Mayor Stanton for his service. Thank you all for caring about our special community!

Click here to read the official statement.

Paradise Valley, Ariz. (Sept. 25, 2025) – The Town of Paradise Valley today announced an agreement with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) that ensures the community’s Town Hall Post Office will remain open with no interruption in service.

“This is a big win for Paradise Valley,” Mayor Mark Stanton said. “When we received the termination notice in June, many of our residents made it clear they wanted to keep the Post Office open. I took the lead on the issue and, working with Town Manager Andrew Ching, we investigated options for appeal or engaging other postal service options.

“I have always felt that extensive contacts and relationships are of high value for the Town and my longstanding friendship with Congressman Schweikert is an example of that successful connectivity,” said Stanton.

READ MORE

Councilmembers requested Mayor Stanton to add to the Council agenda whether to rotate the position of Vice Mayor in the same way that Scottsdale and other communities do.

Councilmember Christine Labelle has been a strong advocate to have the Council consider rotating the Vice Mayor position for a variety of good, solid reasons.

She stated at our meetings that she wanted to adopt policies that reduce divisiveness and internal politics. She correctly noted that everyone who has been elected by the voters of this special community qualifies to serve as Vice Mayor.

I also believe rotation helps to improve cross training of Councilmembers and foster good relations among Councilmembers who then focus on the Town’s best interests. It will reduce factions, game playing and improve the Council team working together. That is the right way to be in the Town of Paradise Valley.

Regarding Councilmember Scott Moore’s article against rotating Vice Mayor, first, Councilmember Scott Moore is misleading because this is not a Mayor Mark Stanton initiative.

In 2025, Councilmember Moore has gone down a path of obstructionist and anger issues on a variety of items with the town staff, Council and Mayor. He regularly undermines the Mayor, tries to derail projects and deadlines, does not follow protocol and has been a distraction to Council and the items that need to be addressed in the Town this year.

Scott Moore strongly opposed Vice Mayor Ellen Andeen Keller to serve as Vice Mayor — yet, she has hands-down been one of the best Vice Mayors we have seen in the past decade.

Scott Moore vehemently opposed certain female Councilmembers from being included to participate on Council for the last couple years. Moore made it his cause during the last election to support only those mayoral candidates who would agree to exclude or attempt to isolate specific women who serve on Council.

Fortunately, Mayor Mark Stanton and candidate Mary Hamway would not agree with Scott Moore’s demands. They had more class and integrity for the benefit of what’s best for the Town of Paradise Valley.

Mayor Stanton repeatedly rises above the inappropriate comments and behaviors of Scott Moore. Mayor Stanton includes everyone in the process on the Council even those who engage in obstruction behaviors for their own personal or political gain.

The Town needs more people like Councilmembers Christine Labelle and Vice Mayor Ellen Andeen Keller who are smart, committed and genuinely care about the Town and make decisions for the best interests of PV.

Rotation of the Vice Mayor helps involve everyone on the Council. If the Council adopts the ordinance tonight on rotating the Vice Mayor, the next Vice Mayor will be Christine LaBelle and after that would be Karen Liepmann, followed by after the next new Councilmember who served a year unless they waive the position and do not want to be Vice Mayor.

The accusations by Scott Moore and his ally, defeated former Councilmember Paul Dembow, that the rotation proposal is an initiative of mine or is for my benefit is 100% false. Such accusations by them are symptomatic of conspiratorially obsessive behavior towards me and other women.

The rotation proposal is truly is helpful to the Town and will foster experience and improves relationships and dialogue on for the effectiveness of each person that the voters have chosen to serve on Council.

By Alexander Lomax

It has been an absolutely wild (and not in a good way) 2025 for the Arizona Democratic Party. After a vote of state committee members showed that they desired a real change, they voted out their previous Chair and voted in a relative outsider, Robert Branscomb II. But what followed was an absolute mess: he fired nearly all of the staff and replaced them with his own favorites, fundraising dropped off of a cliff, budgeting efforts came off as absurd, and he lost the confidence of everyone who matters at the state party (read our coverage here).

After the Arizona Dems voted in favor of ousting him by a wide margin, they recently came back together to vote on who would be his successor. And they made their choice with a resounding margin as they voted for former state legislator Charlene Fernandez to lead them into the future. 

So who is Fernandez? She served as Democratic leader of the State House of Representatives from 2019 to 2021 and was first elected to the state House in 2014, representing Southwestern Arizona including the majority of Yuma County. Before that she spent 12 years working for Congressman Ed Pastor, and also served Governor Janet Napolitano as a liaison for the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality in Yuma County, working with federal and Mexican environmental agencies. After resigning from the legislature in November 2021, she became Arizona Director for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Past her own experiences, she has built a family of political insiders. After her departure her son Brian was chosen to succeed her in the State House. Her daughter Lisa was also formerly the Chief of Staff to Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

So what does this mean for the Democrats? For starters, stability. As a longtime politico she understands the importance of strong relationships, of not alienating partners, and knows what to make public and what to keep private, something that was her predecessor’s undoing. She obviously has deep ties all across the state, but more than that, with her time working with the Biden administration likely made some strong connections in Washington DC, something that is very likely to bear fruit for the state party.

Will it singlehandedly stem the bleeding that Arizona Dems have suffered regarding voter registration and interest? Certainly not, their issues lie deeper than simply a good Chair. But it is absolutely a step in the right direction as the party licks its wounds and looks forward to 2026.

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) A lawsuit will be filed Thursday against Axon’s assault on democracy and the right to challenge local government through the referendum process. It will be filed by TAAAZE (Taxpayers Against Awful Apartment Zoning Exemptions) the political action committee that successfully launched a referendum against the Axon apartment entitlement in Scottsdale, collecting more than 27,000 signatures last fall to put the unpopular apartment plan on the November 2026 ballot.  The “Axon Legislation” is set to take effect Friday absent a legal challenge.

TAAAZE has retained the respected law firm of Perkins Coie, LLP to lead the litigation.

TAAAZE Chairman and former Scottsdale City Councilman Bob Littlefield said, “It’s time to let this arrogant company know they can’t force Scottsdale to accept an unprecedented apartment complex without a public vote.  And certainly not without a fight. It’s time to let Axon know that throwing money at lobbyists and lawmakers alone is not going to work. They pushed the state legislation because they fear a public vote in Scottsdale, they know they will lose.”

Alexis Danneman, partner at Perkins Coie, and lead counsel for TAAAZE said “This lawsuit is about two of our State Constitution’s most important principles.  First, it’s about the right of Arizona voters to hold referenda and vote directly on legislation passed by their city councils but with which they disagree.  Second, it’s about the Constitution’s ban on so-called “special laws,” like the Axon Bill, that confer special privileges and benefits on a specific company or group. The Axon Bill passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor is the very definition of special interest legislation and it is illegal in the State of Arizona.”

SB 1543 was signed into law earlier this year. The legislation, designed specifically to benefit Axon at the expense of Scottsdale voters, nullifies Scottsdale’s right to vote on a nearly 2,000-unit apartment complex near Hayden and the 101, the largest in state history, taking away the rights of Scottsdale residents to decide for themselves whether those apartments belong in their city.Read More

Photo Credit: AZ Big Media

In a world where corporate giants dominate headlines, it’s refreshing to witness a genuine success story unfold right here in Scottsdale. Last week, our city’s own Black Rock Coffee Bar made its debut on the stock market, raising $294.1 million and achieving a valuation that soared above $1 billion.

But Black Rock’s journey to Wall Street began far from the desert landscape of Arizona. The company’s story started in 2008 inside a modest 160-square-foot drive-thru in Beaverton, Oregon, founded with a simple mission: to bring light to grey Pacific Northwest mornings. Founders Jeff Hernandez and Daniel Brand, two passionate coffee enthusiasts, started what would become an exponential growth story.

The company’s Scottsdale connection runs deeper than just corporate headquarters. Black Rock has called our city home since 2020, and today operates 46 locations throughout the Valley. What makes this story particularly compelling is how this Oregon-born company found its corporate home right here in Scottsdale, embracing the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our city.

Black Rock became the first major coffee brand to go public since Dutch Bros debuted in 2021, proving that innovative concepts and strong execution can still capture Wall Street’s attention. The company plans aggressive expansion, targeting 30 new stores in 2025 and approximately 20% annual growth, with ambitious plans to reach 1,000 stores by 2035.

For Scottsdale, Black Rock’s IPO success represents more than just another corporate milestone. It demonstrates that our city continues to attract and nurture businesses that can compete on a national scale. From a tiny Oregon drive-thru to a billion-dollar public company headquartered right here in Scottsdale, Black Rock Coffee’s story embodies the entrepreneurial dreams that make our city a destination for ambitious companies.

As Scottsdale residents grab their morning coffee, many are now supporting a local success story that proves big dreams and quality execution can still create extraordinary outcomes.

Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come when we bet on ourselves. That’s exactly what Paradise Valley Community College physics student Julian Douglas did this summer, and our entire community should be celebrating his incredible achievement.

Douglas didn’t just land any internship; he secured a coveted spot at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, one of the most prestigious research facilities in the country. For two transformative months, this local student worked alongside some of America’s brightest scientific minds, proving that exceptional talent thrives right here in our backyard.

What makes Douglas’s story even more inspiring is his honesty about the journey. Like many of us might, he initially struggled with imposter syndrome, questioning whether he truly belonged among such elite researchers. But the welcoming Oak Ridge community quickly showed him what we already knew; that he absolutely belonged there.

“Once you’ve got your boots on the ground, everyone is so helpful, nice, and welcoming,” Douglas reflected. The experience not only validated his abilities but expanded his scientific horizons, sparking new interests in theoretical science and data analysis that he hadn’t anticipated.

Douglas’s advice to fellow students resonates with the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our area: “Put yourself out there. Throw your application in. You will thank yourself later.” His emphasis on networking and exploration reflects the kind of forward-thinking mindset that makes our local talent so competitive on the national stage.

As Douglas prepares to transfer to ASU in spring 2026, his journey from PVCC to Oak Ridge demonstrates the incredible foundation our local community colleges provide. His success story isn’t just about one student…it’s proof that world-class opportunities begin right here at home, with local students ready to seize them.

Legacy Park. Photo Credit: Vestar

Mesa is about to experience a transformation unlike anything the East Valley has ever seen. Legacy Park, the $1 billion first phase of what will become a multibillion dollar, 200-acre mixed-use development, promises to redefine what luxury living and entertainment look like in Southeast Arizona.

This isn’t just another shopping center or residential complex; Legacy Park represents a complete reimagining of urban living in the desert. At full build-out, Legacy Park will deliver 300,000 square feet of upscale retail and chef-driven sit-down restaurants, many debuting in the East Valley for the first time, with a design and scale comparable to Scottsdale Quarter.

The economic impact will be staggering. Projected to generate $156 billion in economic output and create over 20,000 jobs over the next twenty years, Legacy Park will serve as a catalyst for regional tourism development that benefits the entire Maricopa County area. This isn’t just growth – it’s strategic, sustainable development that positions Mesa as a premier destination.

What makes Legacy Park truly revolutionary is its comprehensive approach to community building. The multibillion-dollar development will include many residences, a resort hotel, high-end dining and retail, office space, and a large urban park anchored by a man-made lake. This creates an integrated ecosystem where residents can live, work, shop, and play without ever leaving their neighborhood.

The location is strategically perfect, spanning 200 acres near Mesa Gateway Airport, Arizona Athletic Grounds, and ASU’s Polytechnic campus. This proximity to major transportation, recreation, and education hubs ensures Legacy Park will become a natural gathering place for the entire region.

Expected to break ground in 2027, Legacy Park represents more than development… it’s Mesa’s bold statement that the East Valley is ready to compete with Scottsdale and Phoenix as Arizona’s premier lifestyle destination.

By Mary Manross, Former Scottsdale Mayor and Chairwoman for Vote YES YES Scottsdale PAC
and Carla, Preserve Pioneer and Campaign Coordinator for Vote YES YES Scottsdale PAC

In most campaigns there are winners and losers. Not when it comes to the passage of Propositions 490 and 491 in Scottsdale which happened on November 5th. We believe everyone in Scottsdale wins.

Proposition 490 will help revitalize and maintain Scottsdale’s parks, beginning with the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, and will provide ongoing care and protection for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.  It will provide funding to prevent and fight fires in and around the Preserve, and funds for increased police rangers for the parks and the Preserve.

Almost sixty years ago Scottsdale had the wisdom and foresight to create the Greenbelt and, thirty years ago, to create the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. They are two of Scottsdale’s greatest decisions and treasures. That wisdom and foresight are still with us today as evidenced by this vote.

Proposition 490 contains legal safeguards to ensure the money is properly spent. And we think these safeguards, and the benefits of the measure will win over many who voted no and maybe even some critics. Now that the voters of Scottsdale have spoken overwhelmingly in support of Proposition 490, we look forward to working with the new Mayor and Council to see that it is implemented properly and responsibly.Read More

By Carla (Carla), Preserve Pioneer

This year Scottsdale was fortunate when it came to wildfires. Next year we might not be so lucky.

As every summer gets hotter and drier, nature and human caused fires are a fact of life in Scottsdale and our Preserve. Thanks to the quick response and hard work of our Firefighters  – plus a little luck with wind direction  – we have avoided a catastrophic fire this year.

But next year, unless Propositions 490 & 491 pass, we won’t have as many tools to help prevent fires.

Year round our Fire Department does excellent outreach work with developments in Northern Scottsdale to address not planting invasive species and removing fire loads. They also work with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management to get grants which provide for wildfire prevention. Specifically invasive plant removal and preventative measures along our Preserve boundary and major roadways.

But Scottsdale did NOT get a grant to fund this work in 2025!

Proposition 490 would add Fire Department funding to provide quicker response times; increased Fire prevention programs; a second Technical Rescue Team; and additional resources to better protect you and your neighborhoods.

Proposition 491 – which is not a tax increase or budget override  – would allow Scottsdale to spend the money it already collects on programs and services that residents want and need. Without its passage, city services will face cutbacks, including in public safety.

Please join the Firefighters, who dedicate their lives to protecting you,  in voting YES-YES on Props 490 and 491. It’s critical to Scottsdale’s safety and future quality of life.

Carla (Carla), Preserve Pioneer

Data Orbital, in conjunction with AZ Free News, is pleased to announce the results of its latest statewide, live caller survey of likely General Election Voters. The survey was conducted from September 7th 2024 – September 9th 2024. The survey measured support for candidates in Arizona’s Presidential contest. This survey was sponsored by AZ Free News.

For President, the Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris trails Republican former President Donald Trump by a slim 46.0% to 46.2% margin. 7.7% reported as being undecided or refused the question.

Speaking with AZ Free News about the Presidential race, George Khalaf, President of Data Orbital, stated “That 7.7% undecided number, I would say, is going to be one of two things: 1.) Either individuals that are saying that they are likely to vote but don’t end up voting or 2.) People that really are truly undecided. But I would be shocked if the true undecided number is in the high single digits”. Khalaf goes on to explain, “I would guess that right now, the true percentage of people that are undecided is maybe one or two percent, if that. This is a high-profile race and so most people have made up their minds. But I think a portion of people that are undecided likely will not end up making a decision on November 5th”.

By Jeanne Beasley
Candidate for Scottsdale School Board

As students return to school this week, let’s consider what we can do to help support and strengthen our local public schools. I am running for a seat on the Scottsdale Unified School Board on November 5, alongside Gretchen Jacobs and Drew Hassler, to serve our community positively.

We are parents, professionals, and community leaders who have had students in our Scottsdale schools and believe that strong communities should have strong public schools. Families shouldn’t have to look elsewhere for the excellent academic opportunities and well-rounded extracurricular experiences they desire for their children.

Our campaign, “Just Be Honest,” will bring a new era of transparency, accountability, and integrity to SUSD. Our mission is to ensure that every decision made is in the best interest of our students, families, and teachers.Read More

With just five days remaining until Arizona’s 2024 primary election, let’s take a closer look at how Republicans and Democrats are performing across the state.

Focusing first on the Republicans, a total of 1,156,580 GOP ballots have been requested. Of these, 1,089,498 are from registered Republicans and 67,082 from Independents. These numbers surpass the total requests from both 2020 and 2022, which were 1,035,288 and 1,059,348, respectively. Currently, Republicans have a 32.7% ballot return rate, while Independents have a 49.2% return rate, resulting in an overall return rate of 33.7%.

At this stage in the election, GOP ballot returns across the state are ahead of 2022 but are behind 2020. In 2020, returns at this time were 426,571, compared to 375,714 in 2022. So far in 2024, a total of 389,458 GOP ballots have been returned.

Now looking at the Democratic side, total ballot requests stand at 1,063,267, with 1,008,909 from Democrats and 54,358 from Independents. This exceeds the totals from both 2020, which had 1,044,288 requests, and 2022, which had 1,041,271 requests. Democrats are returning their ballots at a 29.4% rate, while Independents are returning at a 48.9% rate, resulting in an overall return rate of 30.4%

At this stage in the cycle, Democratic returns are lagging behind both 2020 and 2022. In 2020, Democratic returns were 439,383, and in 2022 they were 368,745. Both figures are notably higher than the current returns in 2024, which stand at 322,984.