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.

Revered as the state’s foremost leader in the Scottsdale and Paradise Valley luxury sector, Aazami brings two decades of record sales, tech-driven innovation and an expansive, loyal client network to Compass amid company’s ongoing growth

Compass, Inc. (NYSE: COMP), the largest residential real estate brokerage in the United States and leading tech-enabled real estate services company, announces that Frank Aazami, one of Arizona’s leading real estate professionals and one of the state’s most recognized and respected luxury advisors, has joined the company, making one of the most high-profile brokerage moves in Arizona luxury real estate history.

Aazami, formerly of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, has an almost-20-year history in the industry and averages. Several of Aazami’s colleagues at Private Client Group, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, are also making the move to Compass, among them Dinesh Wilson, Fletcher Wilcox and Zoya Pedenko. The Private Client Group has a history of more than $100 million in sales annually (BrokerMetrics).

“People like Frank Aazami and the professionals that he’s chosen to work alongside at the Private Client Group are industry leaders, not because of their record-breaking sales volume, but because of their ethics, their integrity and their desire to deliver an exceptional client experience,” said Compass Arizona President Sean Zimmerman. “It’s professionals like Frank and his team that truly define the value and necessity of working with a real estate agent.”

Technology played a big part in Aazami’s decision to join Compass. Aazami has developed a reputation for providing tech-enabled solutions to help shorten the sales process and maximize returns, particularly for higher-price-point properties that might otherwise spend too long on the market, as well as other AI-driven tools and resources.

For clients, Aazami’s move means faster timelines and broader reach, with the combination of Compass’ existing platform and Aazami’s tech-driven solutions. “I want to be able to bring the most value to my clients, and you need a huge brand like Compass to put this all together,” said Aazami, of his transition to Compass and the company’s heavy focus on technology. “Technology and digital media are taking over, and you have to adapt to it.”

The company with the best technology creates the biggest wins for clients, and I’m so excited about this move that I’m yelling…I’m running on pure adrenaline.”

The move to Compass kicks off the next stage in Aazami’s storied career. A longtime entrepreneur, he owned a chain of restaurants in Philadelphia and worked in radio before transitioning into real estate, eventually relocating to Arizona in 2007 during the housing crisis. He soon became a lifeline for clients seeking ways to stay in their homes during the economic downturn and has since risen swiftly through the state’s real estate ranks while remaining deeply involved in the surrounding community.

Aazami will continue serving on the advisory board for Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions. Aazami also supports a wide range of local causes and charitable efforts. He champions anti-bullying initiatives and advocates for individuals with visual impairments. He’s also an active supporter of The Be Kind People Project, an Arizona nonprofit that seeks to create positive changes in schools, and the Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS’ (SAAR) Member Relief Fund, which helps Scottsdale realtors, affiliates and staff members navigate crises or catastrophic events.

Aazami’s commitment to serving clients – and bettering the surrounding community – mirrors the values of Compass’ existing agents.

“Welcoming Frank and his team to Compass isn’t something that just has an impact here – he’ll have a future impact on Compass agents across the country,” said Compass CEO & Founder Robert Reffkin. “Their character, integrity and professionalism supports and echoes our intention of aligning with the very best professionals in this business.”

For more about Compass, visit Compass.com.

Renowned photographer to receive honor during Opening Night Vernissage 

 Scottsdale Art Week presented by Scottsdale Ferrari will honor acclaimed artist and photographer Cara Romero, of the Chemehuevi Indian Tribe, as the recipient of its inaugural “Indigenous Artist of the Year” award during the Opening Night Vernissage of the second-annual Scottsdale Art Week, set for 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026, at WestWorld. Tickets and passes are on sale now, with early bird pricing available for a limited time and a variety of options available to enjoy the four days of festivities:

First Look: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026

$100 Early Bird Pricing

$120 Standard Pricing

First Look offers collectors an exclusive VIP opportunity to acquire works for their collections, with early access to the fair. Guests will be among the first to explore thousands of works presented by leading international galleries in an intimate setting, well before the public opening.

The ticket includes admission to the fair and cultural programming events for one person on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Opening Night Vernissage: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026

$150 Early Bird Pricing

$200 Standard Pricing

Be among the first to experience the excitement of Scottsdale Art Week at the exclusive Opening Night Vernissage — an elegant evening celebrating art and community. Stroll through the aisles and discover exceptional works for sale from leading international galleries. Guests will enjoy entertainment, an award ceremony and a lively art-loving crowd. A no-host bar and dining options will be available for purchase.

Ticket includes admission to the fair and cultural programming events for one person on Friday, Saturday AND Sunday as well.

Public Days: (Single-Day General Admission)

$40 Early Bird Pricing

$50 Standard Pricing

This ticket includes Admission to the Fair and Cultural Programming Events for one person on Friday, Saturday OR Sunday during regular fair hours.

Choice of Day:

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, March 20

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, March 21

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, March 22

Weekend General Admission:

$80 Early Bird Pricing

$100 Standard Pricing

For guests who wish to return to the fair on multiple days, this ticket includes daily admission for one person on Friday, Saturday, AND Sunday during regular fair hours. Enjoy cultural programming events at the fair all weekend as well.

Student General Admission:

$20 Early Bird Pricing

$25 Standard Pricing

This ticket includes discounted admission for students on single-day entry to the fair and cultural programming events for one person on Friday, Saturday OR Sunday. Must show valid student ID at entrance of the fair.

Choice of Day:

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, March 20

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, March 21

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, March 22

Visit ScottsdaleArtWeek.com/tickets for full details and tickets.

The Opening Night Vernissage, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos and benefiting the Phoenix Art Museum, will take place from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026, and acknowledge Romero as its first official honoree. Event organizers will announce additional award recipients in various categories in the coming months, building anticipation ahead of the four days of art, culture and connection.

Romero, who owns Santa Fe, New Mexico’s Cara Romero Gallery, has become one of the most revered indigenous artists of her generation. Her work, which blends fine art with editorial photography, has appeared in more than 10 museum group exhibitions over the last year, including Romero’s first-ever museum solo exhibition at Dartmouth College’s Hood Museum in Hanover, New Hampshire.

The exhibition, called “Panupunuwugai,” takes its name from a Chemehuevi word that conveys both “light emerging, like the sun rising over mountains,” and “infusing the inanimate with spirit or living light.” The exhibition will make its way to the Phoenix Art Museum starting Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, and will be available for viewing when Scottsdale Art Week opens.

Like much of Romero’s work, the exhibit challenges outdated views regarding Indigenous decline and pushes back on stereotypes about Native American identity. A recent Forbes magazine article stated, “Her images are typically celebratory, taken in color and depict Native Americans outside of traditional regalia, forcing non-Native viewers to see and acknowledge Native people as contemporary and vibrant, in opposition to the sepia-toned, stoic, posed Native portraits customary to previous centuries.”

This powerful storytelling is among the reasons Scottsdale Art Week selected Romero as the recipient of this award.

“This award celebrates more than my work,” Romero said. “It’s also an acknowledgement of my community, our stories and our culture, and it’s a tremendous honor to be a part of Scottsdale Art Week alongside so many talented Indigenous artists.”

Scottsdale Art Week established the Indigenous Artist of the Year award to recognize artists whose works highlight indigenous identity and offer insight into Native life today.

“Last year, we gave the Arizona Artist of the Year Award to Dine’ weaver Melissa Cody, and while we will continue to give that award annually, we decided to add a new award exclusively for Indigenous artists,”said Scottsdale Art Week Co-Owner Trey Brennen.

“Being in the Southwest, we feel it’s increasingly important to honor the wonderful work being done by members of the indigenous communities around us. We look forward to honoring Cara with our first-ever Indigenous Artist of the Year Award.”

This year’s Scottsdale Art Week celebration, set for March 19 – 22, 2026, at 16601 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale, Arizona, will expand upon the success and size of last year’s inaugural event, which drew more than 14,000 attendees and 100+ galleries from across the globe. This year, 120 galleries will participate, with galleries from 10 countries already committed.

Jam-packed with cultural programming, immersive exhibitions and other exclusive events and opportunities, Scottsdale Art Week 2026 will also include experiences hosted in partnership with premier Arizona arts institutions like Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and ASU Art Museum, many of which played an instrumental role in making the inaugural edition of Scottsdale Art Week such a resounding success.

In addition to her own gallery, the Hood Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum, Romero has also exhibited her work at The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, The Crystal Bridges Museum, The Figge Art Museum, The San Diego Museum, The Zimmerli Art Museum, The Autry Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, among other major art institutions.

The team behind Scottsdale Art Week has also announced dates for the next three editions, each taking place Thursday – Sunday on the following dates:

• 2027 – March 18 – 21
• 2028 – March 23 – 26
• 2029 – March 22 – 25

For more about Cara Romero, visit CaraRomero.com.

For more information on Scottsdale Art Week or to purchase tickets, visit www.scottsdaleartweek.com.

Patriotic showdown set for noon Saturday, Nov. 8 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, just days before Veterans Day 

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.

Photo Credit: Sports Travel

The USA Wheelchair Football League recently brought six teams from across the country to WestWorld of Scottsdale for what has become an annual showcase of athletic excellence. For those unfamiliar with the sport, this isn’t your typical feel-good story about overcoming obstacles – it’s about elite athletes competing at the highest level of their game.

The USA Wheelchair Football League is “the first of its kind football league for adults with disabilities to reach their highest potential through a competitive, fast-paced, team sport.” What makes this league remarkable isn’t the wheelchairs – it’s the caliber of competition. These athletes undergo rigorous training, follow complex playbooks, and execute strategies that would challenge any football player.

“We have 9 teams here from across the country and they’re here showing that people with disabilities can do anything,” explains Karalyn Stott with Move United, the organization behind the league. But that simple statement undersells what spectators actually witness: bone-crushing tackles, lightning-fast plays, and the kind of competitive fire that defines professional sports.

The 2025 tournament in Scottsdale represents something significant about accessibility in America today. We’ve moved far beyond ramps and designated parking spaces – though those remain essential – to creating environments where elite competition thrives. The athletes in this league aren’t seeking sympathy or inspiration points; they’re seeking championships.

What’s particularly striking about wheelchair football is how it forces viewers to recalibrate their understanding of athletic ability. The speed, strategy, and physicality on display challenge preconceived notions about disability sports. The league “brings together highly trained coaches with passionate athletes, building skills and inspiring athletes to excel both on and off the field through teamwork, dedication, and resilience.”

This isn’t about pity or inspiration porn – it’s about recognition. These athletes have dedicated countless hours to mastering their craft, just like their counterparts in the NFL or college football. The difference is the equipment, not the commitment or skill level.

As accessibility continues evolving in 2025, events like the Scottsdale tournament demonstrate that true inclusion means creating spaces where excellence can flourish, regardless of physical circumstances. When wheelchair football takes the field, what emerges isn’t a heartwarming story – it’s genuine, high-level competition that stands on its own merits.

Photo Credit: Arianna Grainey

For months, we’ve heard dire predictions about tourism’s demise under the current political climate. Critics insisted that political tensions and policy changes would devastate the hospitality industry, particularly in luxury markets like Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. If that’s true, someone forgot to tell the resort owners who are pouring tens of millions into upgrades across the Valley.

The numbers tell a dramatically different story: $42 million into Scottsdale Plaza Resort’s transformation into Miralina Resort and Villas, $24 million for a luxury spa overhaul at JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn, $18 million in room renovations at Hotel Valley Ho, and $7 million in meeting space upgrades at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort. These aren’t the investment decisions of an industry in decline – they’re the moves of businesses confident in their future.

“When the tourism industry is strong, we often see new hotel supply look to enter the market, as well as major renovations at our current properties,” explains Stephanie Pressler of Experience Scottsdale. “Ownership groups see value in this market and want to continue to invest so that they keep drawing in travelers and offering the best visitor experience.”

The scope of these renovations reveals something important about where Scottsdale and Paradise Valley stand in the global luxury tourism market. The Phoenician is adding 20 new Canyon Villas with city and golf views, while Smoke Tree Resort plans to increase from 82 to 95 rooms in its boutique transformation. These aren’t desperate attempts to stay afloat – they’re strategic expansions by operators who see growing demand.

What makes this investment wave particularly telling is its timing and scale. Resort owners don’t commit $100+ million collectively on a whim or to chase a dying market. They invest based on occupancy rates, revenue projections, and long-term market analysis. The fact that multiple properties are simultaneously betting big on Paradise Valley and Scottsdale suggests the luxury tourism sector here isn’t just surviving – it’s thriving.

This reality check should give pause to those who’ve been predicting tourism’s collapse. The evidence suggests that reports of the industry’s death have been greatly exaggerated. Instead, what we’re seeing is a market confident enough to double down on excellence, positioning itself for continued success in attracting discerning travelers from around the world.

By Ronald Sampson

Carine Werner

In a world where inflation is crushing middle-class families, schools are struggling with chronic teacher shortages, and students are falling behind in basic reading and math skills, what has mobilized the activist parents of Scottsdale? A state legislator’s unfortunate hot-mic moment where she described a district employee as “morbidly obese.”

Yes, really. Over 1,500 people signed a petition demanding State Senator Carine Werner’s resignation from the school board because she made an insensitive comment she probably thought no one could hear. Protesters gathered with signs, parents delivered impassioned speeches, and the whole affair was treated with the gravity typically reserved for actual scandals.

Don’t get me wrong – Werner’s comment was inappropriate and unprofessional. Public officials should absolutely be held to higher standards, and basic human decency demands we treat all people with respect. But demanding a resignation over a single thoughtless remark? That seems like activist energy that could be better directed elsewhere.

What’s particularly telling is how quickly this morphed from outrage over the “morbidly obese” comment into grievances about Werner’s conservative positions on curriculum and educational materials. One parent complained about “book banning” and Werner’s support for PragerU. Another demanded freedom for children to “learn whatever.” Suddenly, this wasn’t really about workplace civility – it was about ideological differences dressed up as moral outrage.

The reality is that Werner chairs the state’s Health and Human Services Committee and serves on the Education Committee. Her policy positions reflect the views of the voters who elected her. If parents disagree with her stance on age-appropriate curriculum materials or supplemental educational content, that’s a legitimate political disagreement – not grounds for resignation over a hot-mic gaffe.

Meanwhile, Scottsdale Unified faces real challenges: ensuring academic excellence, managing budget constraints, and preparing students for an increasingly competitive world. Instead of focusing energy on these substantive issues, we’re staging protests over hurt feelings and policy disagreements.

Werner owes the employee and the community an apology – full stop. But perhaps the parents gathering with resignation demands might consider channeling their obvious passion for education toward solutions that actually improve student outcomes rather than settling political scores over verbal missteps.

By Alexander Lomax

I doubt that I need to tell you about the death of Charlie Kirk. Locally you couldn’t have turned on a TV without seeing something about it, and because of the success of the organization he founded, Turning Point USA, it has become an international story, another example of America seemingly splitting at the scenes, another example of Americans using guns to settle disputes.

But for us, that story is a bit more local and personal, he ties deeper.

Arizona was where Turning Point started immersing itself in campaigns, from federal offices to city council races, and where Kirk married his wife, Erika, who was from the state. The organization, and Kirk himself, cut their teeth on the Arizona State University campus, and the organization has been a mainstay there for years. They were openly supporting and helping elect political candidates everyone has heard of, and many you haven’t. They were pushing back on some of the progressive excesses on college campuses that at first might have seemed like a conspiracy of sorts but now most of us will acknowledge.

And I want to be as transparent as possible: I was no fan of Charlie Kirk. He was a successful provocateur, which in the social media age meant that you had to say some pretty unseemly stuff, all of which has been dredged up since. He helped platform candidates who I felt to be detrimental to our state (Kari Lake, anyone?). I disagreed with him on many issues, and disliked his style.

But the fact that he was as successful as he was actually says some beautiful things about America. That someone was able to build something as a college student that was wholly dependent on utilizing free speech and debate is America at its best. Like him or not, he cut his teeth on one of the most cherished foundations of this great nation. And his assassination isn’t an attack on him as much as it’s an attack on our First Amendment rights and what makes our country great.

Free speech isn’t important because of the speech we like; it’s critical because of the speech that we don’t like.

While I was far from a fan of his, he represented something much greater than conservative politics: he represented the possibilities that America offers, and his death represents something much darker than one silenced voice. And as we go forward, it’s incumbent on us to not silence voices that we disagree with. And now more than ever, it’s critical that we find opportunities to cool rhetoric and learn to disagree agreeably, because until we can learn to do that we may find ourselves continuing to hurtle down a dark, dark path.

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky is calling a special City Council meeting at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 at City Hall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., to address next steps regarding Senate Bill 1543.

The Sept. 12 special Scottsdale City Council meeting will address one item:

1) Possibly authorizing the Interim City Attorney, and/or his designees, to proceed as instructed in the Executive Session held on September 9, 2025.

Mayor Borowsky’s statement on the special meeting:

“I have practiced commercial litigation for many years. During the Executive Session on Sept. 9, it was clear to me that the proposed lawsuit strategy needed additional research and fine tuning. Therefore, I could not, in good faith, vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ regarding how to proceed. However, I did, and do, support filing a legal challenge against the state regarding SB1543. To that end, I have scheduled a special meeting for tomorrow, Friday September 12th at 2 pm, in order to have the Council confirm its direction following the Exec Session as requested by our City Attorney.

This is not a new vote, it’s a vote confirming Council’s prior direction. This will have the secondary effect of providing clarity for our residents about what the Council’s direction actually was on SB1543 instead of relying on the false and misleading narratives which followed Tuesday’s meeting.”

By Takosha Murray

My name is Takosha Murray. I work graveyard shifts at Amazon to make ends meet. I have worked hard all my life. A marijuana dispensary license offered me a chance at a better life thanks to the efforts of people like Michael Halow, who partnered with me to navigate stacks of regulations and paperwork.

Unfortunately, some recent media coverage in Arizona and elsewhere is undermining my business and my friend Michael Halow. Those challenging Halow’s businesses seem to be doing so to help a dispensary owner in Tucson. As a result, my plans are threatened as are marijuana dispensary programs in Arizona and elsewhere.

I am at a point in my life where I want to help my two grown children and my first grandchild. The opportunity to open my own dispensary was a blessing, allowing me to help my family, and my community as a business owner.

When I was awarded a license in Missouri, I was very happy as I began to make plans to open my own business and enjoy new opportunities, and then the bureaucracy turned around and took away those opportunities. They say they want to protect people like me. From what? Success? Financial independence? Creating a better life for my grandchild? Valuable  partnerships with experts?

I had all the paperwork and credentials submitted. I did so with help from people like Halow. The application process to open a marijuana dispensary is very complicated. Needlessly complicated in my opinion. And the paperwork involved in opening a cannabis business is also challenging. By forming a partnership with Halow, I was able to navigate my way through the process. Michael and his experienced team helped me in so many ways from who I needed to talk to, all the way through the application process. So I get punished for seeking help, partners, and the expertise to help me excel? And Michael gets punished in the media for trying to bring some equity into a complicated social equity system.Read More

The golf world is buzzing about an innovative new concept that’s revolutionizing how we think about the game, and Scottsdale is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront of this exciting evolution. The Grass League, a high-stakes, par-3 golf organization featuring city-based franchises, has just secured $2.75 million in funding and is bringing fast-paced, team-based golf to eleven franchises across the country, including the Scottsdale Strikers.

How the League Works: The 11-franchise league recently received $2.75 million in funding to cover the cost of organizing live events and hiring a commissioner, signaling serious investment in this fresh take on competitive golf. The Grass League is a unique golf league where players compete on lighted Par 3 courses in team-based formats. Teams represent regional franchises, creating exciting rivalries and fostering local pride. Each franchise fields two-player teams competing in scramble formats with substantial prize purses; a whopping $100,000 purse will be split between the top four teams in major events.

The league’s flagship venue is a public golf course that brings all the best things into one place. A place that busts down the traditional stereotypes of the game. Competition, community, night golf, groups larger than the traditional foursome, incredible food, concert venues & weekly live music.

Scottsdale’s golf culture makes it an ideal home for the Strikers. The Scottsdale franchise in the Grass League is owned and operated by nightlife giants Riot Hospitality. This partnership is genius, combining Scottsdale’s legendary nightlife expertise with innovative golf entertainment creates an unbeatable formula.

The concept perfectly matches Scottsdale’s personality: upscale yet accessible, competitive yet fun, and always looking for the next big thing. The city’s year-round golf weather means the Strikers can compete and practice consistently, while the lighted courses enable evening events that align perfectly with Scottsdale’s vibrant after-dark scene.

Furthermore, Scottsdale’s demographic of young professionals and golf enthusiasts creates an ideal fan base for this fast-paced, team-oriented format. The Grass League’s emphasis on breaking down traditional golf stereotypes resonates with a city that’s always pushed boundaries in hospitality and entertainment.

The Scottsdale Strikers represent more than just another golf team; they’re pioneering a new era of golf entertainment that could transform how we experience the sport, one par-3 at a time.

In the annals of criminal genius, there’s a special category reserved for individuals who manage to compound their initial poor judgment with decisions so spectacularly misguided that they deserve academic study. This week, Scottsdale provided us with a textbook example of how to transform simple vehicle theft into a master class in escalating stupidity.

Lyle Dennis Harmon Jr. was arrested last week after he allegedly crashed a stolen Humvee into a parked Scottsdale police vehicle, injuring the officer inside. Let’s pause to appreciate the layers of brilliance required to achieve this feat. First, steal a vehicle…but not just any vehicle. No, our protagonist selected a Hummer, because apparently subtlety is overrated when you’re already committed to a life of crime.

But why stop at simple theft? Our criminal mastermind decided to take his stolen military-style vehicle and use it as a battering ram against a parked police cruiser. The arrest report clarified it was a Hummer, which somehow makes the whole scenario even more absurd. It’s like choosing the most conspicuous possible weapon for the most conspicuous possible target.

Does this sound familiar? Well it should, because none other than your favorite Scottsdale-centric blog (it’s us…the Arizona Progress & Gazette) reported on drunk-driving Jensen Borkowski plowing into a police car in Old Town only a few weeks ago. 

Twice in a few weeks? To that I say, what the hell is going on, Scottsdale? We all know that we like to throw a good party, but has the collective IQ of our population collapsed? What are we even doing?!?

The physics alone deserve recognition. Ramming a police vehicle while driving a stolen Hummer is essentially the automotive equivalent of robbing a bank while wearing a neon sign that says “ARREST ME.” The only way this plan could have been more obviously doomed is if he’d added fireworks and a marching band.

Unfortunately, this particular episode of vehicular theater had real consequences; an officer was injured in the collision. Because apparently turning grand theft auto into demolition derby wasn’t quite enough chaos for one criminal enterprise.

C’mon Scottsdale…time to get our stuff together.

By Mayor Lisa Borowsky

The Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the US Forest Service, intends to remove most if not all of the Salt River Wild Horses from the Tonto National Forest.

Though the department claims no harm will come to them, history tells us otherwise. One example: In the Apache National Forest in northern Arizona, home of the Alpine wild horse for centuries, the Forest Service hired a contractor to round up some 650 horses and send them to auctions, where “kill buyers” purchase animals to turn into food for dogs in the US, for human consumption in Mexico.

Only the intervention of the nonprofit organization Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, which raised funds to participate in these auctions held across the West and outbid “kill buyers” to save hundreds of horses. Still, a couple hundred horses remain unaccounted for, leading to the inevitable conclusion that they were sent to slaughter.

Nonetheless, the administration of Governor Katie Hobbs continues to plan for this removal with only vague claims that the horses, despite living here for centuries, are non-native; and that they are destructive to the land, which surely applies more to human beings, as anyone who has viewed the mounds of garbage left discarded along the banks of the Salt River.

The horses cannot be so carelessly discarded, left to a dubious fate. We in Scottsdale have been exploring the possibility of relocating some fifty of the horses into our Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve. While this would prove a boon to the city’s tourism, questions remain as to the viability of the proposal, given issues of water, food and heat. Regardless, even if the preserve works out and 50 horses are moved there, that is a small percentage of the total in danger, and other solutions will need to be found.

All of this would be unnecessary if Gov. Hobbs steps up and directs her department to drop this course of action. The wild horses have been a staple in the forest long before Arizona became a state and it will be a cruel turn of events if that state now decides they are unwelcome. The governor holds the fate of these horses in her hands.

I urge all who are concerned, all who love horses, who have witnessed these gorgeous creatures enjoying the Salt River, all who value the history of the horses and the glory of our western heritage, to contact the governor and tell her you want the horses to remain where they are, and have been for so many generations.

If the governor proves unwilling to act, there are other avenues to pursue with other interested public officials and citizens. If push comes to shove, those options can be addressed. However, first and foremost, the most direct path to reasonably, fairly and happily resolving this issue begins and ends at the governor’s doorstep.

Photo Credit: Arizona Digital Free Press

Thank you Mr. Mayor for taking the time to chat with us. You’ve been such a long time at the helm, three entire terms, that we all have been really looking forward to hearing about what you learned.

Looking back on those three terms, what problem in Paradise Valley was hardest to solve and why?

The challenges were constant.  I chose to view every problem as an opportunity to both protect and improve the Town. With each issue—whether public safety, preserving our low-density, high-quality character, or maintaining strong finances—I asked how I could lead the Town forward by improving without fundamentally changing the aspects of the Town we all love.

Some of the biggest opportunities included stabilizing and protecting finances, enhancing public safety, making prudent decisions on development (often by holding the line unless we got a desired outcome), handling the pandemic and civil unrest, strengthening partnerships, and addressing neighborhood issues—especially the problem of short-term rentals.

What do you consider your proudest accomplishment at the helm?

I’m proud that Paradise Valley’s stature grew significantly during my service—reflected in record increases in our property values, low crime, and national recognition. Most importantly, residents were overwhelmingly pleased, which I was pleased to hear often firsthand. I also believe no significant issue was left unresolved, which was one of my key goals.

Short-term rentals became a defining issue statewide. What did PV get right, what do you wish you’d had authority to do, and what’s still unfinished?

I was proud to lead the charge. With valuable support from several council colleagues (especially Scott Moore and Paul Dembow), former Town Manager Jill Keimach, Town Attorney Andrew McGuire, and a group of outstanding citizen volunteers, I rallied mayors statewide to confront the largest short-term rental companies directly.

My strategy was twofold: push to reform the state laws the STR industry tilted in their favor in 2015, and test the boundaries of local ordinances despite those restrictions. This began with my efforts to organize mayors from across the state to take the fight to the STR industry.  We then made cutting-edge improvements to our local ordinances while simultaneously seeking change at the state legislature.  AirBnB fought back hard, even filing an Attorney General complaint, which we defeated. It was a tough fight against extraordinarily powerful, well-financed opponents who determined to persevere the unacceptable framework they had created.  In the end, they relented because of our work, and I was proud to help rewrite state laws to restore important local safeguards.

More local authority would be welcome, but the changes we achieved have already had a tremendous positive impact on safety and quality of life for residents living next to STRs.

Paradise Valley prides itself on low-density, residential character. Where’s the line between protecting that identity and adapting to regional growth pressures?

The line is clear: our default zoning is one home per acre. We allow resort redevelopment in certain designated areas, but I never supported condos, townhomes, or excessive density.

Residents made their priorities clear during the General Plan update I led with broad community, Planning Commission, and Council support. The balance we have is correct. My approach was to be clear, predictable, and fair with property owners and the community, while listening to all stakeholders. A project shouldn’t be approved — and permanently alter our community —  simply because a developer claims they “need” more density or “for sale” small housing units to make it work, or tries to pitch the Town that they will bring in revenues that are not needed if the Town is being managed well.

PV leans heavily on tourism-related revenue. How did you think about fiscal resilience when resort cycles dip or legislation changes local tax rules?

One of my first initiatives as Mayor was to stress-test the Town’s finances—modeling all possible revenue shortfalls so we could plan wisely and avoid making decisions under duress which can lead to bad outcomes. This approach became part of our financial planning and proved invaluable during COVID-19.

During my tenure, we fully funded our public safety pension deficit, met and exceeded all other obligations, and rebuilt a robust cash reserve to give the Town flexibility for when the next shortfalls inevitably come.

Public safety tech (e.g., license-plate readers, photo enforcement) is effective but controversial. How did you weigh privacy, deterrence, and community trust?

There is no controversy in Paradise valley because our residents overwhelmingly support these tools. They are used responsibly, and our Police Department—under Chief Carney and former Chief Wingert— worked incredibly hard and very consistently to earn deep community trust through decades of outstanding service. The technology saves lives and makes Paradise Valley safer.

What’s a decision you changed your mind on after hearing residents? Walk us through the before/after.

Every decision I made was shaped by resident input. I didn’t “flip” positions because I listened carefully along the way—and I paid close attention to the “silent majority” that often speaks up only when things go wrong. My goal was to understand and internalize our communities priorities at a deep level to prevent things from getting to that point.

Intergovernmental relationships matter in PV (Scottsdale, Phoenix, county, state). Where did collaboration work best, and where was it toughest?

I recognized that while we’re proud of Paradise Valley, we often rely on our larger neighbors more than they rely on us. I worked to build respectful, cooperative relationships—listening, offering help whenever consistent with our priorities, and being clear when we needed their help but trying to keep those “asks” as limited as possible so that we were always seen as an asset to our neighbors, and never a drag.

That personal, collaborative approach made partnerships feel natural and effective.

Regarding your leadership style, when did you have to be the consensus-builder, and when did you have to be the tie-breaker? 

As an attorney and businessperson, I value collaboration and bringing people together, but I don’t fear conflict. With the Council, I tried to set clear boundaries in which everyone could participate but prevented disrupters with personal agendas that did not serve the community from dominating.  I communicated priorities clearly, early and often, sought productive dialogue, and focused on outcomes—not on credit or being “right.” With this focus and the positive participation from several Council colleagues, I didn’t need to act as a tie-breaker.

When you decided not to seek another term what tipped the scales for you, and what will you miss most about the role?

I had set goals for the community and for myself as Mayor. Once I achieved them, and saw capable candidates ready to lead, I felt it was time for new challenges.

I miss working daily with a wonderful community and outstanding people—but the most meaningful relationships continue.

On a non-political note, what’s your perfect PV day for you?

It starts and ends with family. Time together around the house – the living room, patio, or pool – with my wife Robyn, our kids, and my parents; a walk or bike ride around the neighborhood or to get to and enjoy the nearby hiking trails; and then more fun at home — a barbecue (or as we call it, an “asado”) with family and friends. That’s as good as it gets.

Finally, what are you up to these days and how do you plan to stay involved in civic life without being in the big chair?

The mayor’s role in Paradise Valley is volunteer, so throughout my service I always worked for a living.  Since stepping away, I’ve ramped up my business activities and have enjoyed a more flexible schedule. I’m fortunate to have strong relationships with people who continue to ask for my help, and I’m staying engaged in several ways that I feel can make a positive impact on the community.

Today, the Scottsdale City Council will be at a crossroads with a critical vote; it will decide if it will proceed with litigation against newly-created state law that stole our ability to determine our own fates.

You may remember how Axon decided to circumvent your desire and the desires of the over 25,000 voters who wanted to bring their apartment megacomplex plans to a public vote. As a further reminder, in its desire to shoehorn its plans into the city however it could, it lobbied state lawmakers to take away your ability to bring any gargantuan, inappropriate, ugly, or otherwise undesired project to a public vote.

So now, lawmakers will be deciding whether or not they want to fight for your rights…for your ability to decide your own fates instead of allowing corporations to decide your fate for you. So let’s take a look at what a lack of a fight might mean for them, because extensive polling on Axon’s plans has been done in the not-so-distant past.

So what did the polling say?

• 2% of respondents oppose the proposed zoning change to enable Axon’s hotel, restaurants, and large apartment complex—more than double the support at 29.1%
• 6% are strongly opposed, indicating a deep and committed level of dissent among nearly half of the voters
• Amongst the most dominant and important voting bloc in Scottsdale, Republicans over age 55, opposition intensifies; 74.5% are strongly opposed, compared to just 15.7% who are strongly in favor.
• The share of undecided or neutral respondents is only 5.6%, meaning that voters know exactly how they feel about this subject
• When presented with the most robust arguments from each side of the argument, 62.3% said that the anti-apartment megacomplex statement aligned with their views
• When asked to consider the number of apartments built in Scottsdale in recent years, 59% of voters believed that there has been too much new apartment construction, while only 8% thought that there has been too little (and Axon’s plans would make for the biggest apartment complex by new units IN STATE HISTORY)

In the recent past Scottsdale voters have used the referendum process to upend 15-story buildings in Old Town and unwanted buildings in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. For any councilmember not to sue and protect those constitutional rights now would be sickening…all for the sake of the largest apartment complex in city and state history.

Rarely have decisions been so cut and dry. Choose wisely, city councilors.

By Bob Littlefield

Dear Friends:

At tomorrow’s Scottsdale City Council meeting Councilmembers will decide if they will sue to reverse the bad legislation that, if is allowed to go into effect, will nullify the referendum signed by 26,000+ Scottsdale voters who want a say in whether Taser-maker Axon will be allowed to build the largest apartment complex in Arizona history in our city. The question to be decided is, will Scottsdale Councilmembers stand up for their constituents or will they cave to Axon’s bullying? This should be an easy 7-0 vote, because even if you support Axon’s apartment proposal you should still vote for the lawsuit to preserve the right of Scottsdale residents to hold their elected officials accountable when they make bad decisions. Scottsdale voters clearly agree – the Council report for this item has over 30 pages of comments from citizens urging the Council to vote for proceeding with the lawsuit!

Our legal team believes this lawsuit has a good chance of success, in which case Scottsdale voters will have an opportunity to vote in November 2026 to approve or reject Axon’s apartment project. Axon clearly agrees that the lawsuit could succeed, since they are busing people to city hall tomorrow, and they’ll all be in Axon garb, probably carrying signs. In addition, Axon has already funded a Political Action Committee to the tune of $1M (so far, no doubt more to come) to trash Councilmembers who oppose their apartment project!

Is there anything we can do to fight this? The answer is yes – let your Mayor and City Councilmembers know how strongly you feel about this issue. Many of you have already emailed the Council in support of pursuing the lawsuit (thank you!), If you haven’t yet done so, please contact them at citycouncil@scottsdaleaz.gov and insist they stay strong and focused to vigorously oppose this bad bill in the courts. If you can do so it would also help if you would attend the Council meeting (which starts at 3 PM) and testify to show your support for the lawsuit.

The time for inaction is past. The loathsome “Axon bill” with soon take effect if not challenged, so now is the time for Scottsdale city government to grow a spine and take legal action to protect the right of Scottsdale citizens to challenge bad decisions of their city government via referendum! Tomorrow night Scottsdale residents will find out for sure which Councilmembers have our backs, and which will cave to Axon’s special interest demands!

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.