In addition to the stunning fall leaves, the Arboretum is hosting a number of enjoyable events from late November through December, including Nature Play for Kids, Yoga in the Garden and visits from Jolly St. Nick

Here’s some great news for fans of fall foliage: you don’t have to travel to New England in order to see autumn trees at the height of their colorful splendor.

Instead, make the scenic drive to Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 E Arboretum Way, Superior, AZ 85173 Superior, where Mother Nature is preparing to put on an incredible autumnal show of reds, oranges, yellows and golds.

“The three peak weeks of fall colors are from the end of November to the beginning of December, and the scenery here is truly magical” said Kim Gray, Executive Director of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. “Because Black Friday is traditionally our busiest day for visitors who are here to see the gorgeous fall foliage, we are staying open late Thanksgiving weekend, with the last admission at 9 p.m.”

For visitors who would like their four-legged friends to experience the Arboretum too, Gray said well-behaved dogs on a 6-foot or shorter leash are welcome to visit.

“We are also hosting a Food Drive during late November and December,” Gray said. “Visitors can bring shelf-stable foods like tuna, canned chicken, pasta, soup, chili, peanut butter and canned vegetables, and everything will be donated to the Superior Food Bank.”

In addition to admiring and photographing the beautiful fall leaves, visitors are welcome to take advantage of a number of late fall and winter programs and events at the Arboretum  – including visits from Santa Claus. They are:

Glass in Flight – This immersive outdoor sculpture exhibit was created by renowned Tucson-based artist Alex Heveri. Featuring over 17 dazzling sculptures made of hand-cut, hand-faceted Dalle de Verre glass set in powder-coated steel, this exhibit captures the magic of nature’s tiniest pollinators—blown up to monumental scale. Walk among monarchs, beetles, and hummingbirds that radiate color and light. Now through January 30, 2026, during regular hours.

Glass in Flight at Night – Come experience the dazzling Glass in Flight exhibit at night. With strategic lighting and nightfall as the backdrop, these larger-than-life glass insects take on a whole new dimension—radiant, surreal, and unforgettable. Watch butterflies shimmer, dragonflies pulse with color, and beetles gleam like jewels in the dark. From now to January from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be no evening hours on November 8.

Meet the Artist – Glass in Flight – Come meet Alex Heveri, the artist behind Glass in Flight 2. Heveri, a Tucson-based artist and sculptor, will talk about the process and inspiration behind her larger-than-life glass pollinators. Guests will be guided on a tour of some of the pieces in the Glass in Flight 2 collection and have a chance to ask Heveri questions about the exhibit. November 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and November 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Nature Play – Unplug and reconnect with Nature in the Children’s Garden, where families can escape the screens and dive into the wonders of the great outdoors. Bring your kids to explore, play and learn using seasonal and nature-themed activities for families of all ages and abilities. Every Saturday, November 15, 22 and 29, and December 6, 13 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Forest Bathing – Also known as Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is the practice of spending time in nature for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness. During class, participants will be led on a 2-1/2 hour walk through the century-old trees of the Arboretum with a series of guided “invitations”, closing with a tea ceremony. December 6 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Paint at the Arboretum – Prickly Pear Cactus – Unleash your creativity amongst the inspiring beauty of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Under the guidance of artist Carla Keaton, you will paint a unique masterpiece to take home. Whether you’re an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the first time, all skill levels are invited to join. All supplies are provided. November 15 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Yoga in the Garden – Relax and restore in this all-levels yoga class held outside in the tranquil setting of the Arboretum. During this class, participants are shown how to mindfully move through gentle postures with breath awareness to promote relaxation, flexibility, and circulatory health. November 22, December 10, and December 20 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Santa visits the Arboretum – Santa is coming to the Arboretum!  Stop by the Smith Greenhouses and get a photo with Santa. Bring your family, including four-legged family members, for fun holiday photos. Digital copies will be available for purchase. December 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.   

Holiday Hangout – Celebrate the season at the Holiday Hangout. Shop local vendors and find one-of-a-kind gifts at our holiday marketplace. Treats and merchandise will also be available for purchase. December 6, 13, 14, 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Branching Out Speaker Series – Hummingbirds, Our Avian Jewels – Arizona is the “hummingbird capital” of the United States, with more species than any other state. In this program by nature photographer Cindy Marple, attendees will learn about the large hummingbird family and their unique lifestyles, as well as how to identify the local species in the Valley. December 12 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Holiday Floral Design – Celebrate the holiday season by handcrafting a beautiful centerpiece filled with fresh-cut evergreens and vibrant flowers. With the guidance from the instructor, you will design a one-of-a-kind arrangement perfect for your holiday table. No experience necessary; this class is open to all skill levels. Ages 18 and up. December 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

To check out the event calendar for late fall and winter, which includes information about ticket prices and, if applicable, how to register, please visit  https://btarboretum.org/events/.

For more information on Boyce Thompson Arboretum – located at 37615 E Arboretum Way

Superior, AZ 85173 – and their upcoming events, memberships, or conservation initiatives, visit www.btarboretum.org, call 520.689.2723, or connect with them on Facebook, Instagram or X (formerly Twitter).

Situated on 4.2 Acres, Estate Includes Go-Kart Track, Golf Simulator, Putting Green Wellness Center & Walk-In Armory, Among Numerous Other Amenities

Compass luxury real estate leaders Frank Aazami and Bill Bulaga of Private Client Group have listed the ultimate $20 million sports and entertainment estate in Gilbert, Arizona and one that redefines what it means to live, play and recreate without leaving home.

Located at 21423 S 147th St., this seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom sports and entertainment compound combines five dedicated areas and features an array of over-the-top amenities, from an underground shooting range and walk-in armory to a Zen garden, wellness center and private go-kart track.

Spanning 4.2 acres, the palatial estate includes a 9,236-square-foot main residence, a 6,610-square-foot recreational facility, a 5,660-square-foot wellness center, a 2,480-square-foot go-kart barn and racetrack, and a cultivated organic garden complete with koi ponds and exotic animal enclosures. Designed with luxury, recreation and wellness in mind, the gated property also counts a dance studio, yoga studio, dry sauna and full basketball court among its ample amenities.

“There are luxury real estate listings, and then there are properties that completely transcend that category,” said Aazami, noting that Arizona’s luxury real estate market has shown strong momentum in recent months. “Every inch of this estate encourages play, inspires wellness and caters to athletes, fitness enthusiasts and anyone who loves to entertain.”

The compound’s main residence boasts expansive, well-equipped living areas with high ceilings, glass walls, a theater room and a private roof deck, with notable features ranging from a two-story designer closet to four spacious guest suites. A state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen caters to home cooks and those who love hosting, while a pool, playground, heated spa and 1,056-square-foot covered patio with its own outdoor kitchen allows for easy indoor-outdoor entertaining.

A separate, mixed-use structure dubbed “The Hideaway” acts as the ultimate escape for fitness enthusiasts, with a home gym, indoor turf area, golf simulator, putting green and gaming lounge giving residents and guests ample space to spread out and stay active, regardless of outside conditions or temperatures. An upstairs guest suite features a full bedroom, bath and kitchenette, while a “toy barn” area gives automotive enthusiasts plenty of room to store and display prized vehicles while protecting them from the heat and sun.

A large health and wellness center also occupies its own structure on the compound, boasting a spa-level fitness facility with red light and water therapy, a cold plunge and hot tub, a massage room, saunas and locker rooms. The health and wellness center also features a private upstairs loft area complete with a bedroom and full bath, serving as a peaceful, private getaway for guests or live-in staff.

Also included are a go-kart barn and racetrack, an underground walk-in armory and shooting range, a fully covered basketball court and a carefully manicured organic garden brimming over with fresh herbs, citrus and fruit trees and flowers. The estate also includes covered parking for 14 vehicles, including five fully enclosed garage spaces plus another nine under a carport.

“This compound truly is the ultimate getaway for anyone looking to live and play in the lap of luxury,” Bulaga said. “It’s a place where you can kick back, entertain and enjoy everyday life without limits.” 

For more about Compass, visit Compass.com.

The Most Attended Polo Event in America Saw Over 13,000 Spectators Over Two Days of Matches

The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships celebrated its 14th edition this past weekend at WestWorld with six exhilarating matches, 13,137 attendees, two full days of festivities and plenty of patriotism, surprises, memorable moments and three Valley mayors took part — Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky, and Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton.

Held Saturday, Nov. 8 and Sunday, Nov. 9 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, this year’s event coincided with the debut of the WestWorld Art & Wine Experience, giving Polo Party guests a chance to check out fine art, local wines and eye-catching exhibits on their way through the events’ new shared entryway.

Taking place right before Veterans Day, this year’s Championships also included a series of patriotic elements, featuring the event’s first-ever Army vs. Navy polo match and Mayor Borowsky riding into the polo field on horseback, American flag in hand, to introduce the National Anthem.

While the energy in the stands and VIP tents was electric, so, too, was the action on the field, with six thrilling matches featuring players from across the nation and around the globe giving guests sideline seats to all the action. Here’s how it all unfolded across two full days of play:

Saturday Matches:

• Mark Taylor’s Arizona Polo Club defeated Compass’ New Orleans Polo Club 8 – 4.
• Stella Artois’ Navy team defeated Barrett-Jackson’s Army 11 – 2 in the inaugural military matchup.
• The Bentley Scottsdale Wales National Polo Team defeated Gila River Resort & Casino’s Wine Country Polo Club, the 2024 event champions, 10 – 5,reclaiming the title after many years including an eight-year      run by the Aspen Valley Polo Club.
  • Maserati Sonoma Polo Team defeated Sanderson Lincoln’s Royal County Berkshire Polo Club. 9 – 7.

  Sunday Matches:

  • The women’s Bentley Scottsdale team took home the win in the Battles of the Sexes match title in a 10-7 victory against the men’s Stella Artois team.
  • Team Aston Martin claimed the win over the City of Scottsdale in the International All-Stars Match, with a final score of 9-6.

  Two celebratory polo preview parties kicked off the festivities Thursday night at the Gebert Contemporary Art Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale and Friday night at Neiman Marcus. Polo players, VIP ticket purchasers and dignitaries including Mayor Borowsky toasted the start of the polo weekend. There were also special performances by the Phoenix Gay Men’s Chorus and the Arizona Opera.

Spectators also enjoyed plenty of off-field action, from memorable ball drops to the fan-favorite Canine Couture, which was judged by Mayor Gallego and Phoenix Fashion Week’s World’s Longest Catwalk fashion show to a one-of-a-kind performance of Oasis’ smash hit, “Champagne Supernova,” by Whiskey’s Quicker, led by Arizona sports media personality Dan Bickley.

Warm temperatures and clear skies created ideal conditions for ponies and players and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for fans, while afterparties at Casa Amigos Scottsdale and DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale kept the energy high long after the lights went down on the polo field.

“This year’s event included everything that makes the Polo Party one of the nation’s most memorable events – major matchups, big crowds, musical, cultural and automotive elements and an electric atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else,” said Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships Founder Jason Rose. “While we make a point to bring back everything our fans know and love, we also introduced a number of new elements this year, like the new entry through the WestWorld Art & Wine Experience and the first-ever Army vs. Navy matchup, to keep things fresh and continue to elevate the experience.”

As the sun sets on the 2025 Polo Party, event organizers are already looking forward to next year’s installment and finding new ways to raise the bar at one of Arizona’s signature sporting and lifestyle events

Second Annual Art Fair Set for March 19 – 22, 2026 at WestWorld to Welcome Global Galleries, New Elements

The second edition of Scottsdale Art Week Presented by Scottsdale Ferrari won’t hit WestWorld until March 19, 2026, but it’s already on track to significantly surpass last year, with two-thirds of the fair’s 125 exhibitor booths sold out nearly five months ahead of its opening.

Set for the North Hall at WestWorld of Scottsdale on Thursday, March 19, through Sunday, March 22 at 16601 N Pima Road in Scottsdale, The 2026 Scottsdale Art Week will also welcome a wide range of new and returning galleries from around the globe, with more than 80 galleries representing 13 countries and four continents already confirmed.

Galleries from Argentina, England, Turkey, Israel and the Netherlands are among those already signed on, highlighting both the fair’s increasing global influence and Scottsdale’s growing reputation as an international art destination. Earlier this year, Scottsdale was recognized as the fastest-growing city in America for millionaires. 

“The early enthusiasm has been incredible—it’s a clear sign of how quickly the fair’s profile is growing,” said Amy Gause, director of Scottsdale Art Week. “Last year’s energy was palpable, and selling out two-thirds of our booths five months ahead shows the deep confidence galleries have in this fair and the thriving Scottsdale market.”

Gause noted that the fair takes place during high-season in Scottsdale and the heart of MLB’s spring training games in the Valley. 

As collectors, gallerists, and artists make their way to the city this spring, there is so much in store for them at WestWorld of Scottsdale. A diverse range of artwork—from blue-chip, modern, and contemporary to historic, Indigenous, and Western—will be showcased during the four-day celebration of art and design, offering collectors the perfect opportunity to acquire new pieces for their collections.

Attendees will also enjoy a series of on-site panel discussions exploring timely topics in today’s art market, led by leading curators, museum directors, gallery owners and artists from across the country.

Next year’s Scottsdale Art Week celebration will also include exciting new elements like Design Day, a new program catering to designers, architects and their clients.

Offered in partnership with Phoenix Home & Garden magazine and Art Solutions & Installations, Design Day takes place Friday, March 20, and will feature panel discussions that explore the relationship of art and design, a happy hour and networking opportunities, and other elements of interest to today’s design professionals and homeowners.

Also returning this year is a Veuve Clicquot Restaurant and Bubbles Bar, which will take shape in the center of the fair and give gallerists, collectors and art enthusiasts a central place to meet up or unwind amid the festivities. A new addition to the fair is the Stella Artois Sculpture Garden featuring large-scale, monumental sculptures by a variety of artists.

Scottsdale Art Week’s 2026 attendees will also get a glimpse of a variety of immersive and provocative art installations, among them Gino Miles’ “Triumph.” The sculptor’s most ambitious project to date, the work will arrive onsite in three separate pieces and span more than 40 feet wide and 10 feet high once assembled, serving as a great focal point for photos. Miles will also be offering a smaller-scale 40-inch prototype of “Triumph” at a silent auction in his booth at the fair, with all proceeds going to a local charity.

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

Partnership Enables Thriving Wellness Spa to Secure a Permanent Home, Accommodate Ongoing Growth

What started in a small studio suite nine years ago has since grown into one of Scottsdale’s most in-demand wellness spas, and Laser Skin Couture now has a permanent home thanks to Owner Missie Madeja’s dedication and determination – and a helping hand from Scottsdale Community Bank

The wellness spa, which maintains a 98% client retention rate and offers everything from Botox, fillers and laser treatments to IV therapy, weight-loss management services and acupuncture, has become a top choice among Scottsdale and East Valley residents looking to “love the skin they’re in.” Beyond traditional treatments, Laser Skin Couture also offers a wide range of bespoke services including menopausal support, Korean skincare solutions, stem cell therapies and salmon sperm facials, among others. As its lineup of clients and available services grew, so, too, did the need for more space, prompting Madeja to seek out a building that could serve as a permanent home.

Initially, Madeja considered taking out a Small Business Administration loan to fund the purchase of the building, but she found the process to be overly complicated and daunting. A chance meeting with a bank professional at a luncheon had her reconsidering, and on the advice of a friend, she found her way to Scottsdale Community Bank and its First Vice President of Lending, Orlando Castaneda.

“Orlando and his team were exceptional,” Madeja said. “The whole team embraced me like they knew me forever, and everybody wanted to help in whatever capacity they could. When I moved into the new building, Orlando even stopped by to congratulate me on the purchase. It made me smile from ear to ear – it’s true caring.”

Castaneda said working with small business owners and helping them expand and succeed is one of the highlights of what he and the Scottsdale Community Bank team do.

“Working with someone like Missie, and helping her see her vision through to fruition, is a big part of why we’re in this business,” said Castaneda. “It was an honor to play even a small part in helping her expand Laser Skin Couture into the powerhouse it is today, and we can’t wait to see where she takes her business in the future.”

With her flagship location now firmly in place, Madeja plans to expand the business even further, with two additional locations in the works in parts of the Valley primed for population growth. She sees the building she purchased with the help of Scottsdale Community Bank as an important step in the ongoing expansion process, giving her the stability and momentum she needed to begin planning the next stage of growth.

“We all start out with a dream and a vision, and we think we can do everything ourselves,” Madeja said, of launching a business in the area. “There are resources out there, but it’s always good to branch out. You have to know when to pass the baton and have experts hone in on certain areas to help you grow. I wouldn’t have been able to get that building without Scottsdale Community Bank’s assistance; I can’t say enough about it. I wasn’t a number.”

For more about Madeja and Laser Skin Couture, visit LaserSkinCouture.com.

By Alexander Lomax

Photo Credit: NPR

The Scottsdale City Council voted 5-2 to investigate erecting a memorial for Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder who was assassinated at a Utah college campus earlier this year. And while I understand the impulse to honor someone with deep Arizona roots, something about this moment feels… premature.

Let me be clear: Kirk moved Turning Point USA headquarters to Phoenix in 2019 and lived in Scottsdale with his wife, a Scottsdale native. His tragic death was shocking and senseless. He was undeniably effective at what he did: building a political movement that mobilizing young conservatives across the country. These are facts, and they matter.

But here’s where I get uncomfortable: Scottsdale is the third Phoenix-area city to propose a Kirk memorial, following rejected proposals in Fountain Hills and Phoenix. State Senate President Warren Petersen wants to rename Loop 202 the “Charlie Kirk Memorial Loop 202.” President Trump posthumously awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. A memorial service at State Farm Stadium drew tens of thousands, with Trump calling Kirk an “American martyr.”

This is the treatment we typically reserve for presidents, civil rights leaders, and figures whose impact transcends partisan politics. Charlie Kirk was a talented political commentator and organizer…but he was a political commentator and organizer. His legacy is important to millions of conservatives, absolutely. But does that warrant the rush to immortalize him in concrete and steel across Arizona?

Councilman Adam Kwasman said the memorial would provide “a space for reflection and dialogue” about civic engagement. That’s a noble goal. But I wonder if we’re conflating a tragic death with historical significance. Are we memorializing the person or the moment? Are we honoring achievement or martyrdom?

The speed of this nationwide push, the bridge renamings, the highway dedications, the Presidential Medal of Freedom…it feels less like organic remembrance and more like political consolidation. It’s treating a podcaster like a fallen president, and that precedent makes me uneasy, regardless of political affiliation.

Kirk deserves to be remembered by those who loved and believed in him. But does he warrant permanent civic monuments? That’s the question Scottsdale needs to honestly answer, not just feel.

By Councilmember Jan Dubauskas

We live in an incredibly generous community! Together, we raised $29,602 to upgrade the new Scottsdale Food Bank box truck! With generous donations from Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association, Honor Health, and Blue Zones Project Scottsdale, we will retro-fit our new box truck with a refrigerated box that will allow the Food Bank to collect and distribute even more fresh food!

AZ Family covered the story here: Scottsdale Food Bank

As you may remember, in the spring, I attended the ribbon cutting for the Scottsdale Food Bank’s new, expanded location on McKellips Rd. At the ribbon cutting, I was so impressed with their efficiencies and the high quality of the food, I began volunteering at the Scottsdale Food Bank.
As a volunteer, I have seen first-hand the incredible work our Human Services team provides to verified Scottsdale residents, who are in need. I have worked with these residents and have seen shame and despair transform into wonder and gratitude when we bring so much plentiful, healthy food.
We distribute 90% fresh food – fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, bread – and more. The Food Bank provides an incredible ~150 lbs of food to each person – and serves nearly 500 households each month! Over the course of the last fiscal year, the Scottsdale Food Bank distributed 524,000 pounds of high-quality food. Learn more here.

As the team and I talked, the need for a refrigerated truck came up over and over. We could serve our residents better by going from grocery store to grocery store – instead of going to one grocery store and then back to home base. The concern – a new refrigerated truck costs over $100,000 – a huge sum!

And then the magic happened! Talking with Sasha Weller, President of the Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association, he became intrigued and started considering various idea to figure out how we could do this for a more economical price. Sasha worked with our Fleet department and they realized we could take our brand-new box truck and retro fit a refrigerated box for $27,000!

Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association generously offered to cover half of the cost. I called Honor Health and asked if they’d meet us half-way? They enthusiastically agreed and called Blue Zones Project Scottsdale to join us.

Our incredible donations:
Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association: $13,500
Blue Zones Project Scottsdale: $9,402
Honor Health: $6,750

My sincere thanks and gratitude to our community for coming together to develop a cost-effective solution! Because of you, the Scottsdale Food Bank will be able to deliver even more fresh food to our residents in need.

These are the projects that touch my heart and bring our community together. I am incredibly grateful for these individuals and their desire to serve those among us who are most in need.

Today, George Khalaf issued the following statement announcing his candidacy for the Arizona State House in Legislative District 3.

“As I’ve spoken to Arizonans in my home district and across the state, I’ve found one thing to be clear: We are drawn to optimistic and clear-eyed leaders who can cast a conservative, America-first vision for the future and deliver on it. I’m running to offer that to the North East Valley and to represent the community that I love and am proud to call home. Our North East Valley, whether you live in North Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Carefree, Anthem, Rio Verde or Fountain Hills, has been well represented by Representative Joseph Chaplik and Representative Alex Kolodin. But now we have an open seat in the State House, and I want to ensure that we have strong conservative leadership for the future of our state and for our country.” said Khalaf. 

George Khalaf is well known across the state and parts of the country as a political consultant, education freedom advocate and political data expert. But Khalaf says that he has felt called over the last year to do more than fight political and policy battles as an outside voice. He believes it’s time to put his own name on the line and fight for bold, common sense conservative policies at the Capitol.

“We need to build a pro-family economy, support parenthood, stop woke indoctrination of the next generation, empower parents in their children’s upbringing and education, make our K-12 system work for families, secure our borders, stand for our constitutional freedoms, make Arizona healthy again, and demand free and fair elections with full transparency. And that’s just the start. This is how our state, our district, and Arizona families will go into the future stronger and more free. What defines me first and foremost is my faith and my family. I’m a Christian, a proud husband and father, and an unabashed America-first, pro-family conservative.”

George is proud to be endorsed by these Arizona and North East Valley leaders.

• Lisa Borowsky, Mayor of Scottsdale
• Jan Dubauskas, Scottsdale City Councilwoman
• Amy Carney, SUSD Governing Board Member
• Nancy Barto, Former Arizona State Senator
• Cathi Herrod, President 2006-2024, Center for Arizona Policy
• Seth Leibsohn, Radio Host

“I’m proud to endorse George Khalaf to represent LD3 in the Arizona State House. Scottsdale residents want leaders with conviction who will act in our best interests and enact common sense policies that make our families stronger and our lives more free and more prosperous. I know George to be a man of principle and integrity. He loves the North East Valley, and I am confident he will make us proud at the Capitol.” – Mayor Borowsky

“Listening to my constituents and putting residents first are my priorities; and I only vote for leaders that I trust will do the same. That describes George Khalaf. He is always listening, present, and engaged in our community. He speaks to the issues and values we care about. He is 100% in step with Scottsdale’s values, putting families first, fighting for safe communities, defending our freedoms, and driving economic growth and vitality. I’m proud to endorse George Khalaf for the Arizona State House.” – Councilwoman Dubauskas

“When it comes to the issues of life, religious freedom, parental rights and family values, George Khalaf has been a strong and ready ally and one of the few in Arizona’s professional politics willing to stick his neck out to defend our core values. I was grateful to have his personal and professional support at Center for Arizona Policy for many years and I am proud to endorse him now to carry his values and courage to the Capitol.” – Cathi Herrod

“George is not only a principled conservative, but a great man—a great family man, a great man of generosity with his charitable efforts and volunteerism in our community, a great man in his can-do policy prescriptions.  He will make LD 3 proud in our state legislature and in our community.  I could not be more honored to endorse his candidacy.” – Seth Leibsohn

George Khalaf resides in Scottsdale with his family. Learn more at GeorgeKhalaf.com.

Photo Credit: AZ Family

Sometimes the most beautiful acts of humanity emerge from our darkest moments. In Scottsdale, the Skalina family is discovering this truth as they navigate the unimaginable loss of their 12-year-old son, Dylan.

Halloween night 2024 began like any other for Dylan, a spirited young boy who refused to let Type 1 diabetes keep him from trick-or-treating with friends. Despite not feeling well, he ventured out, determined to celebrate the holiday. But the evening took a devastating turn when Dylan began vomiting uncontrollably and developed a severe headache. A CT scan revealed a massive brain bleed; a ruptured aneurysm likely caused by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder.

Dylan spent his final days in a medically induced coma, surrounded by the love of family and friends who gathered to celebrate his 13th birthday early. On November 3rd, he was pronounced brain dead.

In the midst of overwhelming grief, a remarkable moment of clarity emerged. Dylan’s friend Ella posed a simple question to his mother, Megan: “Are we donating his organs?” Without hesitation, Megan recognized this was exactly what Dylan would have wanted. That single decision will now save approximately 300 lives.

The choice reflects everything Dylan was: a kind, respectful young man shaped by growing up as the only boy among four sisters. His siblings fondly remember teaching him how to treat women with respect, lessons he carried with grace and humor.

As Dylan’s organs give the gift of life to strangers and contribute to medical research, the Skalinas find solace knowing their son continues his legacy of helping others. In their darkest hour, they’ve chosen to illuminate the path for hundreds of families who will receive the ultimate gift: hope for tomorrow.

Dylan’s story reminds us that even in tragedy, love endures…and sometimes, it multiplies beyond measure.

By Ronald Sampson

Zohran Mamdani with AOC. Photo Credit: Politico

Last Tuesday wasn’t just a good night for Democrats; it was a blueprint for what could be coming to Arizona in 2026.

Across the country, Democrats secured decisive victories in Virginia and New Jersey governor’s races, with Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill winning by comfortable margins while campaigning heavily on economic issues and cost of living. In Georgia, Democrats won their first non-federal statewide office since 2006. In North Carolina’s Wake County, Democratic candidates won 25 of 27 races, while Republicans won just one of 22 endorsed candidates. Even New York City elected democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as mayor with over one million votes.

The message was unmistakable: voters are unhappy with the Trump administration, particularly on economic issues, with majorities in multiple states saying they were dissatisfied or angry about the direction of the country. A recent national poll shows Democrats holding a four-point edge on the generic congressional ballot, with 57% of voters saying they’re more motivated to vote than usual.

For Arizona, the implications are significant. Republicans currently control the state legislature with a 17-13 Senate majority and 33-27 House advantage: narrow margins that could flip in a wave election. All 90 legislative seats are up for grabs in 2026, and Democrats are explicitly targeting these chambers as highly competitive.

Governor Katie Hobbs, seeking reelection herself, has been aggressively investing in legislative races. House Minority Leader Oscar De Los Santos stated, “I have every expectation that in 2026 we’re going to mount an even bigger challenge and effort to flip the legislature”.

The conditions mirror what happened nationally on Tuesday. Trump has consistently focused on immigration over economic issues, but cost-of-living concerns proved to be the decisive factor for voters. Arizona families dealing with inflation, housing costs, and the recent SNAP benefits crisis could be primed for similar messaging.

If Democrats can replicate Tuesday’s suburban gains and Latino voter enthusiasm in Arizona, where Democratic candidates won Latino voters by two-to-one margins in Virginia and New Jersey, a “blue wave” that delivers the state legislature isn’t just possible. It’s probable.

The 2026 midterms are still a year away, but last Tuesday may have shown us Arizona’s political future.

Paradise Valley is moving closer to addressing its flooding vulnerabilities with a comprehensive stormwater infrastructure master plan. After recent storms highlighted the town’s susceptibility to flooding, officials have developed a strategic roadmap to prioritize improvements and protect properties across the community.

The Scope of the Problem

Working with the Kimley-Horn engineering firm, the town identified 19 particularly flood-prone areas, categorized by severity: three with nuisance flooding, seven with moderate risk, and nine with severe flooding potential. The issues range from structural and property flooding to the more prevalent problem of roadway flooding, which creates dangerous conditions and restricts emergency access.

Priority Projects and Investments

The plan targets six high-priority severe flood zones with specific solutions: Invergordon and Mockingbird Lane tops the list with new storm drain systems along Invergordon and Maverick Roads ($11.6 million). Mountain View Road would receive a detention basin to reduce runoff at Tatum Boulevard ($6 million), while Upstream Cherokee Wash improvements include replacing low water crossings with box culverts at Crestview, Arroyo, and Desert Jewel Drives ($6 million).

Additional projects address 40th Street and Stanford Drive with enhanced drainage infrastructure and flood control basins ($1 million), Downstream Cherokee Wash crossings ($2 million), and Lincoln Drive culvert capacity upgrades ($1.9 million).

What Happens Next

Town Manager Andrew Ching emphasized that approving the master plan doesn’t commit the council to any specific project; each will be evaluated during future budget discussions. This approach allows for flexibility as funding opportunities emerge and priorities evolve.

A Proven Prevention Strategy

Councilmember Scott Moore highlighted one success story: the town’s 2017 requirement for on-site retention in all new construction and remodels. During recent storms, the town received zero complaints about residential flooding—evidence that proactive measures work.

For Paradise Valley residents, this master plan represents a long-term commitment to infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety, protect property values, and ensure the town’s roadways remain accessible during monsoon season and winter storms.

The conclusion? Well-run cities and towns think ahead and act proactively, and while they have not been completely perfect in this regard, it’s certainly a positive that Paradise Valley is moving forward with ameliorating a significant issue in the town.

Under the leadership of Mayor Lisa Borowsky, the city of Scottsdale has joined the Coalition for Protecting Arizona’s Lifeline, a nonpartisan alliance of municipal leaders committed to advocating for Arizona’s continued access to Colorado River water and the Central Arizona Project, the state’s largest water delivery system.

The Coalition, which includes mayors from across Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties, was formed in response to growing threats to the Colorado River system, including prolonged drought, over-allocation, and regional tensions.

CAP’s 336-mile aqueduct delivers water to more than 80% of Arizonans, making it a vital resource for cities, agriculture, tribal communities, and economic development.

“As mayor of Scottsdale, I am proud to join fellow leaders across Arizona to protect our state’s water lifeline,” Mayor Borowsky said. “Scottsdale’s world-renowned quality of life, thriving economy, and desert heritage all depend on water stewardship. Through this coalition, we are amplifying our voice and our impact to ensure a resilient water future for generations to come.”

Scottsdale has long been recognized for its innovative water conservation programs, including turf removal rebates, reclaimed water systems, and desert-appropriate landscaping.

In 2024 alone, the city’s rebate programs helped save more than 22 million gallons of water. Scottsdale’s municipal parks system has conserved over 3 billion gallons in the past 25 years, demonstrating the city’s leadership in sustainable practices.

The Coalition for Protecting Arizona’s Lifeline aims to:

• Advocate for Arizona’s fair share of Colorado River water in ongoing multi-state negotiations.
• Elevate public awareness of CAP’s role in securing water for millions of residents.
• Promote collaborative, science-based solutions to ensure long-term water resilience.

“By joining forces, we can counter misinformation, share best practices, and champion policies that protect our communities and our future,” Mayor Borowsky added.

For more information on the Coalition and how to support its mission, visit ProtectingArizona’sLifeline.com.

By Alexander Lomax

Scottsdale Unified School District has found itself under intense scrutiny lately, particularly from Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne. But when the latest state test scores arrived, the numbers told a story that’s hard to dispute: SUSD students are thriving academically.

With 62% of students passing English Language Arts assessments and 58% passing math across grades 3-11, SUSD claimed the top spot among all public school districts in Maricopa County with at least 10,000 students. These figures shine even brighter when compared to statewide averages, where only 40% of students passed ELA and a mere 33% passed math.

Yes, the district faces challenges. Budget pressures, potential school closures, and governance debates make headlines. No organization is perfect, and SUSD certainly has areas requiring attention and improvement. But amid the noise of political battles and administrative controversies, one fundamental truth emerges: the district is delivering exceptional educational outcomes for its students.

That’s not a small achievement. When over half a million Arizona students take standardized tests and two-thirds fail math statewide, SUSD’s 58% pass rate represents a remarkable outlier. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; they’re students gaining the skills and knowledge they need for future success.

Superintendent Scott Menzel emphasizes that “academic excellence is our top priority,” with particular focus on increasing math achievement. The results suggest this focus is working.

Critics will always find something to criticize, and healthy scrutiny keeps institutions accountable. But when a district consistently outperforms both county and state averages by such significant margins, it deserves recognition. Scottsdale Unified isn’t claiming perfection; it’s demonstrating sustained excellence where it matters most: in the classroom.

For parents considering educational options and community members evaluating their local schools, these test scores offer concrete evidence that despite external pressures, SUSD remains focused on its core mission of educating students effectively. And instead of being quick to criticize we should consider being thankful for such outperformance.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. Photo Credit: Nvidia.com

Arizona being a hotbed for the tech industry has been a common theme; shoot, we just wrote about it last week. But a recent development shows that we may have been understating how critical our state is becoming with an entire global industry.

When Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang took the stage at the company’s first-ever Washington D.C. conference this week, he delivered news that reverberates far beyond the capital: the company’s Blackwell graphics processing units, its fastest AI chips, are now in full production in Arizona. This marks a watershed moment for our technology sector and economic future.

The significance cannot be overstated. Previously, Nvidia’s fastest GPUs were solely manufactured in Taiwan, making this the first time the company’s flagship processors have been produced on American soil. For Arizona, this represents validation of decades of strategic investment in semiconductor infrastructure and workforce development.

Engineered across America, from silicon fabrication in Arizona and Indiana to assembly in Texas and California, Nvidia Blackwell exemplifies large-scale precision engineering. Arizona isn’t just participating in the AI revolution; it’s manufacturing the engine that powers it. When the world’s most valuable technology company chooses your state for its most advanced production, it sends an unmistakable signal to other tech giants: Arizona is open for business at the highest level.

The economic implications extend beyond manufacturing jobs. As AI becomes central to national security and economic competitiveness, Arizona positions itself as indispensable infrastructure. Tech companies, startups, and research institutions will increasingly look to locate near these critical manufacturing facilities, creating a multiplier effect that could rival Silicon Valley’s historic growth.

Moreover, this announcement arrives as the stakes are high for Nvidia, with U.S. export restrictions having already cost the company billions of dollars in lost sales. By manufacturing domestically, Nvidia strengthens its strategic position while Arizona gains leverage as a critical node in America’s technology supply chain.

For Arizona’s brand, the message is clear: the state that already hosts Intel and TSMC facilities has become America’s semiconductor powerhouse. This isn’t just about one factory or one company…it’s about Arizona defining the future of American technology manufacturing for generations to come.

By Ronald Sampson

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has once again trained his sights on Scottsdale Unified School District, this time criticizing a community flyer for a “Girls in Gear” cycling event that invited girls, nonbinary, and gender-expansive youth to participate. His diagnosis? SUSD is promoting “woke ideology” that’s driving families away and causing declining enrollment.

Let’s be clear: some of Horne’s concerns merit consideration. School boards should focus primarily on academic excellence. Parents legitimately worry when they perceive their children’s education being influenced by ideological agendas of any stripe. And yes, SUSD enrollment has been declining, a troubling trend deserving serious analysis.

But here’s where Horne’s argument unravels. The flyer contained SUSD’s standard disclaimer stating the district “neither endorses nor sponsors the organization or activity represented in this material”. As Superintendent Scott Menzel explained, as a governmental entity, SUSD cannot edit submissions in the community forum it has opened to the public and applies the same review process to all organizations regardless of viewpoint.

This isn’t the first time Horne has targeted SUSD. In June, he threatened to cut federal funding unless the district withdrew certain history textbooks he labeled “leftist”…textbooks he admitted never reading in their entirety. The pattern suggests something beyond genuine educational oversight.

Horne holds a powerful platform. His office should focus on Arizona’s mediocre statewide academic performance: those dismal 40% ELA and 33% math proficiency rates. Instead, he’s issuing press releases about community bike ride flyers and cherry-picking passages from 1,200-page textbooks.

The political calculus is transparent. Cultural wedge issues generate headlines, energize bases, and build political profiles far more effectively than the unglamorous work of improving reading scores. Horne may have legitimate concerns about maintaining academic focus, but his approach of public accusations, federal funding threats, and headline-grabbing press conferences, feels less like educational leadership and more like opportunistic political theater targeting one of Arizona’s highest-performing districts.

Let’s be honest: in Scottsdale, complaining about the roads is practically a civic pastime. Right up there with debating roundabouts and grumbling about cyclists. But here’s a plot twist: Scottsdale just ranked as the fourth-best city in the country to drive in, according to financial website WalletHub. Yes, you read that correctly. Fourth. In the entire nation.

Before you dismiss this as some kind of statistical sorcery, let’s talk about why Scottsdale actually earned this distinction. The city ranked first (as in number one) in traffic and infrastructure among 100 major U.S. cities. That’s not about potholes; that’s about the bigger picture of what makes driving pleasant (or at least tolerable).

So what exactly went into this top ranking? The traffic and infrastructure category includes annual hours spent in congestion, number of days with precipitation, cold weather days, average commute times, alternative-fuel stations per capita, road and bridge quality, roadway miles per 1,000 persons, and Waze driver satisfaction ratings. Suddenly, living in a place where it’s sunny 299 days a year and rarely dips below freezing seems like a pretty sweet driving deal, doesn’t it?

Here’s where Scottsdale really shines: minimal traffic congestion, short commutes, and, let’s give credit where it’s due…300-plus days of dry, beautiful weather that never turns your morning commute into a white-knuckle ice-skating adventure. Those factors matter enormously when you’re behind the wheel daily.

Now, about those roads. Yes, Scottsdale’s Pavement Condition Index came in at 64 out of 100 in May, slightly below the national average of 68. City officials acknowledge this and have responded decisively: last year’s budget included $22.3 million for pavement overlay projects, while this year’s investment jumped to $52.9 million. That’s not just incremental improvement; that’s a historic commitment to fixing what’s broken.

The bottom line? While we all love a good kvetch about road conditions, Scottsdale drivers really do have it pretty good when you consider the complete package of what makes driving enjoyable.

By Scottsdale City Council Solange Whitehead

Last November’s resounding Prop 490 victory was challenged – yet again – by the Goldwater Institute. On Tuesday morning we prevailed in court.

To be clear, voters in every Scottsdale precinct approved both Propositions 490 and 491 this past November. Despite frivolous legal challenges and an egregious misinformation campaign to defeat Prop 490, Scottsdale voters stuck to their guns and voted to invest in our continued prosperity.  The importance of these propositions that fund Scottsdale parks, Preserve wildfire mitigation, and public safety cannot be overstated.  Preserving open space, maintaining world class parks, and retaining local control have been community priorities for generations.

Rather than accept the court’s ruling. the Goldwater Institute is appealing the decision and thereby wasting more of our resident’s tax dollars in an effort to overturn our votes.  Their actions appear to go against everything that the institute namesake, Senator Barry Goldwater, cherished.  According to his grandchildren and as evident in his writing and photography, Senator Goldwater was an environmentalist that appreciated and wanted to protect Arizona’s wild places.

Photo Credit: TSMC Arizona

It’s been a big few years for Arizona, and more specifically the tech sector. They have been able to land a number of massive new developments and headquarters, but a more recent news story has us wondering something which would have sounded absurd only 5 years ago…is Phoenix becoming a capital city for Artificial Intelligence?

Phoenix’s transformation into a global semiconductor powerhouse accelerated dramatically this week when Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company announced plans to secure additional Arizona land to create an “independent gigafab cluster.” TSMC CEO C.C. Wei revealed that strong AI-related demand is driving the company to speed up its Arizona expansion and roll out advanced process technologies sooner, with the new land acquisition supporting its staggering $165 billion vision for the Valley.

The announcement marks a pivotal moment in Phoenix’s emergence as America’s AI epicenter. TSMC is accelerating its development timeline by two to three years, preparing to upgrade technologies faster to 2-nanometer chips and more advanced processes given robust demand from U.S.-based AI customers. This isn’t just incremental growth: it’s a complete recalibration of what Phoenix represents in the global technology landscape.

What makes this expansion particularly significant is the ecosystem it’s creating. TSMC’s Arizona plan aims to turn the site into a self-contained semiconductor manufacturing facility capable of producing 100,000 12-inch wafers monthly, complete with on-site packaging, testing, nearby supply chain partners, and a talent pipeline. The company has already expanded its Arizona internship program from 130 to 200 slots, investing in the next generation of semiconductor professionals.

For Arizona, the implications extend far beyond chip manufacturing. Mixed-use developments like NorthPark and Halo Vista are sprouting around TSMC’s north Phoenix campus, creating what local observers describe as “a city within a city.” The Arizona Commerce Authority reports 200 new residents arriving daily, transforming the North Valley into an international hub attracting talent from across the globe.

Phoenix’s ascent as the AI capital reflects a broader strategic imperative: national security through domestic chip production. As U.S.-China trade tensions escalate and AI demand explodes, Arizona represents America’s answer to semiconductor dependence: a desert transformed into what one executive called “serious silicon real estate.” With TSMC’s latest commitment, Phoenix isn’t just participating in America’s AI revolution; it’s leading it.

Arizona’s 1st Congressional District race was bound to be an interesting one; it always is. But a recent addition to the race makes it even more compelling with potentially even more interesting new entrants to come.

The race took a dramatic turn this week when Arizona GOP Chair Gina Swoboda announced her candidacy with a coveted endorsement from President Donald Trump. The race, already fascinating due to Rep. David Schweikert’s decision to vacate the seat, just became one of the most compelling congressional contests in the nation (read our full coverage here).

When Schweikert announced in late September that he would leave Congress to pursue the Arizona governorship, citing frustration with Washington’s dysfunction and a belief that “Arizona is savable” while D.C. is not, political observers knew the floodgates would open for candidates eyeing his competitive seat. The district has become increasingly competitive in recent cycles, with Schweikert narrowly defeating Democratic challenger Amish Shah by just 3.8 percentage points in 2024, a loss that was almost a blowout compared to some of his other recent victories.

Swoboda’s entry changes the calculus entirely. As the first major Republican to officially jump into the race, she comes armed with significant advantages: Trump’s “complete and total endorsement,” name recognition from her role leading the state party, and a platform centered on economic growth, border security, and taxpayer protection. Her campaign emphasizes “commonsense conservative principles”, a message she believes resonates with the district’s affluent, educated voters who want results over rhetoric.

The Trump endorsement cannot be understated. In Republican primaries, the president’s backing typically clears the field or severely hampers competing candidates. While other Republicans have filed statements of interest, including state legislators and local figures, none carry Swoboda’s combination of Trump support and statewide profile. With the Trump endorsement firmly in hand, Swoboda jumps out to an early lead in what promises to be a hard-fought Republican primary, positioning herself as the prohibitive favorite to carry the GOP banner into what will undoubtedly be one of 2026’s most watched congressional races.

Photo Credit: Scottsdale Police Department

Congratulations to 27-year-old Brett Carlin, who has earned this week’s prestigious distinction of being Scottsdale’s Most Embarrassing Export. In a city known for luxury cars and audacious flash, a city of peacocks showing off their feathers, Carlin managed to stand out…but not in the way his Instagram followers might have hoped.

Our hometown hero was indicted this week on two counts of unlawful flight from law enforcement and two counts of reckless driving, which is legal-speak for “being an absolute menace to society while filming it for the ‘gram.” Because apparently, nothing says “influencer lifestyle” quite like baiting cops into high-speed chases and documenting your journey toward a felony conviction.

The highlights of Carlin’s content creation strategy? Driving his motorcycle at over 180 mph on Loop 101 while weaving through traffic, intentionally provoking police pursuits, and, the real chef’s kiss? Waving at officers before tearing off at speeds that would make a fighter jet jealous. It’s performance art, really, if the art form you’re going for is “How to Lose Your License and Freedom Simultaneously.”

Here’s what makes this particularly Scottsdale: We’re a city that prides itself on sophistication, where people meticulously curate their personal brands around wine tastings and gallery openings. And then along comes this guy, whose brand is apparently “chaos tourist with a death wish and a GoPro.”

The Arizona Department of Public Safety received numerous tips from concerned citizens who watched Carlin’s videos and thought, “Hey, maybe someone should stop this guy before he turns another motorist into an unwilling extra in his increasingly terrible content.” DPS listened. They arrested him on October 1st, and he’s now enjoying his fifteen minutes of fame from behind a $20,000 secured bond.

To be fair to Carlin, he did achieve his goal of going viral…just not in the way that typically leads to lucrative sponsorship deals. Unless there’s a brand out there looking for a spokesperson who screams “poor life choices,” he might want to pivot his content strategy.

So here’s to you, Brett. You’ve given Scottsdale something we didn’t ask for: a reminder that influencer culture can occasionally influence people to do spectacularly stupid things. May your next viral moment be your mugshot serving as a cautionary tale.

Stay here for any breaking news.

It is rare that Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs comes to Scottsdale, but it came paired with an even more unusual conversation in our city: the importance of broadband. But it’s an important conversation that was had here, as well as an irony worth acknowledging.

Scottsdale, with its gleaming tech campuses and fiber-optic infrastructure serving residents who take high-speed internet for granted, seems an odd setting for a conversation about digital connectivity gaps. Yet that’s precisely why it matters; these discussions need to happen where decision-makers are, in communities that have already reaped the benefits of robust broadband.

The reality is that while Scottsdale residents stream 4K content and work seamlessly from home offices, nearly a third of Arizona households, close to 800,000, remain underserved or completely unserved when it comes to reliable internet access. This isn’t just a rural inconvenience; it’s a fundamental barrier to economic participation, healthcare access, and educational opportunity in the 21st century.

Arizona’s ambitious broadband expansion, fueled by nearly $1 billion in federal BEAD funding, represents more than infrastructure investment. For communities across tribal lands, where Arizona’s 22 federally recognized nations face disproportionate digital divide challenges, reliable internet means telemedicine visits become possible, students can access online coursework, and economic development opportunities finally reach geographically isolated areas. For residents in places like Bullhead City, where daily internet interruptions made basic email communication frustrating, fiber optic connections transform daily life in ways that urban dwellers rarely consider.

The state’s strategic middle-mile network, with fiber optic conduit running along I-17, I-19, and I-40, demonstrates forward-thinking infrastructure planning. Arizona owns this network (a rarity among states), positioning it to serve an estimated 80% of unserved and underserved households. This backbone, developed through partnerships between ADOT, the Arizona Commerce Authority, and private sector entities, creates the foundation for last-mile connections that will reach individual homes and businesses across rural Arizona.

What makes this particularly significant is the timeline and scope. Within two to three years, this massive broadband push promises generational change for Arizonans regardless of geography. Children in remote areas will access the same educational resources as their suburban peers. Ranchers and tribal entrepreneurs will compete in digital marketplaces. Healthcare providers will reach patients hundreds of miles away through telehealth platforms.

For those of us comfortable in Scottsdale, Tempe, or Phoenix, broadband feels like a utility as basic as electricity or water—something we notice only when it fails. But that privilege blinds us to the economic and social isolation that lack of connectivity creates elsewhere in our state. When state leaders advocate for broadband expansion in communities that already have it, they’re forcing a necessary conversation about equity and opportunity that transcends zip codes.

Arizona’s broadband expansion isn’t just about technology deployment; it’s about ensuring every corner of our state can participate fully in the modern economy. The conversations happening in Scottsdale today will determine whether rural and tribal Arizona gets left behind or brought along into the digital future. That’s a subject that demands attention from everyone who cares about the state’s economic trajectory—even those of us who’ve never experienced what it’s like to wait ten minutes for an email to send.

By Ronald Sampson

Scottsdale City Council has been a bit…contentious recently. With plenty of battles amongst members, it has nearly been asking for cooler heads. And it was with perhaps perfect timing that that request was answered.

Longtime Scottsdalian Raoul Zubia recently announced that he will be running for city council next year. He brings decades of dedicated service to our community, combining professional expertise with a deep personal commitment to preserving what makes Scottsdale special.

As a lifelong resident and Coronado High School graduate, Zubia’s roots in south Scottsdale run deep. His 25-year banking career provided him with the financial acumen and strategic thinking that our city needs, while his retirement has freed him to focus entirely on community service.

Zubia’s resume of civic engagement is impressive. He’s served as Chairman of the Scottsdale Human Services Commission, where he gained firsthand insight into the needs of vulnerable residents. As President of Partners for Paiute Board of Directors, he’s worked to provide funding and resources to those in immediate need. His leadership extends to the Charros Foundation, Coronado Promise Committee, and the Parada Del Sol Committee, where he serves as an announcer for one of Scottsdale’s most cherished traditions.

Most recently, Zubia was appointed Vice Chair of the Protect and Preserve Scottsdale Task Force, demonstrating the trust current city leaders place in his judgment on critical issues affecting our open spaces and quality of life.

His contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2021, he received Scottsdale Leadership’s prestigious Hodges Alumni Achievement Award, and in 2024, he was inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame—recognition of his lasting impact on our community.

You’ll have numerous options next year when it comes to who to elect (or re-elect) to city council. One thing is clear about Raoul Zubia though; he brings passion, integrity, and a proven track record of putting Scottsdale first. We could do much, much worse than having him helping lead our city.

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.