Realty Executives International is pleased to announce that it is aligning its ownership structure across Arizona and re-establishing common ownership of the Phoenix and Yuma market territory. This strategic move consolidates Realty Executives’ presence in Arizona under one ownership group, reaffirming its long-term investment and commitment to serving agents and clients statewide. The company started 60 years ago in Phoenix and showcases approximately 5,500+ agents.

Under this change, Realty Executives International opted not to renew its agreement with the current Phoenix franchise. Instead, the company is inviting all existing agents in the Phoenix and Yuma region (approximately 600 real estate advisors) to join the newly integrated international network under the leadership of respected industry veteran Jeff Murtagh. Murtagh, who currently leads the successful Tucson office, which includes Southern Arizona and Northern Arizona, will now oversee the Phoenix and Yuma operations as well.

Continuity, Support, and Growth Opportunities for Agents

Agents transitioning to the new Realty Executives Phoenix will retain access to current branding, signage and marketing collateral — ensuring a seamless continuation of business. As a show of commitment to their success, Realty Executives is offering no monthly fees for the first six months to agents who join this newly unified brokerage by July 31.

“This move is about simplifying and strengthening the Realty Executives network in Arizona,” said Patrick van den Bossche, President of Realty Executives International. “We are creating an even more powerful, unified platform to support our agents, clients and communities — while maintaining business as usual for all involved.”
Led by Industry Leaders, Backed by Outlier’s Resources

Realty Executives’ Arizona network will benefit further from the direct financial resources and strategic oversight of renowned Valley businessman David Tedesco, CEO and Founder of Outlier and the ownership partner behind Realty Executives International. Outlier’s financial strength and track record of building scalable, agent-first platforms ensures that agents and clients alike will benefit from enhanced technology, training and operational support. One of the largest and fastest-growing privately held businesses in Arizona, Outlier also owns other notable brands such as iFLY, Pump It Up, Passport Health and inDispense, among others.

“We are proud to bring the Phoenix and Yuma markets back into the core of our Arizona operations after the previous franchise structure,” said David Tedesco, CEO of Outlier and Realty Executives’ ownership group. “Our goal is to create the strongest real estate network in the state, and that means investing in great people, great tools and great leadership.”

Jeff Murtagh, CEO of the Arizona Territory brokerage, added, “I’m honored to take on this expanded leadership role. The agents in Phoenix and Yuma are incredibly talented and have deep ties to their communities. We’re excited to offer a supportive environment where they can thrive, grow and be recognized as industry leaders.”

Outlier currently owns a signature property in the 44th St. corridor at 4343 Outlier Boulevard in Phoenix. A portion of the 187,000-square-foot building is now the new Phoenix flagship brokerage location for Realty Executives.

For more, visit RealtyExecutivesArizona.com.

Previously posted on businesswire.com

FalconEye Ventures today announced it and Vestar have acquired Scottsdale Quarter, a premier, 755,000-square-foot open-air mixed-use destination encompassing retail, dining, and office components, complemented by nearly 600 residential units.

FalconEye Ventures is a real estate investment company founded by tech entrepreneur George Kurtz in 2020.

The company also announced today that Vestar, a leading owner and operator of open-air shopping centers across the Western United States, will be a strategic partner and oversee operations at the property.

As part of the acquisition, a $100 million capital improvement program is planned to further elevate the property’s positioning within the luxury retail sector and expand its Class-A office offerings to cater to technology and creative industry tenants.

Home to iconic retail brands such as Apple, Restoration Hardware, lululemon, Jenni Kayne, Veronica Beard, Dominick’s Steakhouse, and True Food Kitchen, Scottsdale Quarter has long been a cornerstone of the Southwest’s retail landscape. FalconEye’s planned investment in the property will support its long-term vision to build upon the presence of these powerful brands to create a vibrant live-work-play environment that blends contemporary luxury retail, chef-driven dining, and innovation-focused office space.

“Scottsdale Quarter is a powerful asset with even greater future potential as a magnet retail destination and a hub for breakthrough technology companies,” said Kurtz. “This acquisition aligns with our commitment to investing in and developing leading mixed-use properties that serve as catalysts for innovative companies and economic growth.”

“Working with FalconEye Ventures represents a strategic opportunity to advance our shared vision for Scottsdale Quarter,” said David Larcher, President and CEO, Vestar. “The planned enhancements will build upon the property’s strong foundation while positioning it as a destination for continued growth in an evolving retail and office landscape.”

The capital improvement program for Scottsdale Quarter will focus on tenant curation, infrastructure enhancements, and experiential retail concepts designed to differentiate the property. Implementation is scheduled to commence in late 2025, with phased execution designed to minimize operational disruption to existing tenants and maintain continuity of service to visitors.

Located between North Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, the property benefits from proximity to affluent residential communities and serves one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan markets. The property has established itself as a significant retail destination within the Southwest market, serving more than 4.5 million visitors annually.

About FalconEye Ventures

FalconEye Ventures was founded in 2020 by tech entrepreneur George Kurtz, who is the founder & CEO of CrowdStrike. FalconEye has rapidly emerged as one of Arizona’s most active real estate groups, curating a premier portfolio of lifestyle centers and best-in-class development projects. The firm partners with top-tier design and construction teams to create a lasting legacy of vibrant retail destinations, dynamic mixed-use developments, and thoughtfully planned communities.

Situated on the Idyllic Camelback Lake in McCormick Ranch, closed its doors June 30 and will be followed by the demo and new build for a brand new concept from Scottsdale based Prime Steak Concepts

Locally and family-owned Prime Steak Concepts is pleased to announce it has acquired the property of the former Chart House on Camelback Lake in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Prime Steak Concepts is owned by James Beard-nominated brothers Michael and Jeffrey Mastro, Dennis Mastro and business partner Scott Troilo. Together, the foursome own and operate Dominick’s Steakhouse, Steak 44, Ocean 44 and Durant’s Steakhouse in the Valley of the Sun and Steak 48 and Ocean 48 in other cities throughout the country, including Chicago, Houston, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Del Mar, Beverly Hills, and Newport Beach. 

Durant’s Steakhouse is scheduled to reopen in the fall of 2025 after a brief remodel of the legendary Phoenix brand that will maintain and enhance the iconic feel.

Chart House was a Scottsdale mainstay since 1984 and was well known for its one-of-kind views of Camelback Lake and Mountain.  With the recent acquisition of the property, Prime Steak Concepts will create an entirely new signature restaurant from the ground up at the iconic McCormick Ranch location.  They are currently completing the R&D (research and development) process for this brand-new concept, the name and concept are not being released just yet.

“We are excited to bring a new concept and new building to this incredible location. The entire property will be re-imagined,” said Jeff Mastro. “We have been developing a great new concept and menu and are excited to share it with our community and our guests. My brother Mike and I grew up just a few blocks away in McCormick Ranch and this is the perfect place for us to do something very special that fits this iconic location.”

Chart House is now permanently closed. ^.  More information will be available in the coming months on the new concept, scheduled to open fall 2026.

Veteran Land Executive to Lead Growth Strategy Across Master-Planned, Lot Servicing and Land Banking Platforms

Brookfield Residential has appointed Greg Abrams as Senior Vice President, Land Acquisition for its Arizona division, continuing to strengthen its leadership team and accelerate its strategic growth across the state.

With more than 20 years of experience in Arizona’s residential construction and real estate markets, Abrams has overseen the investment of hundreds of millions annually in land acquisitions and has built a reputation for leading high-performing teams, crafting successful land strategies, and nurturing long-standing relationships with top builders and key stakeholders.

In his new role, Abrams will lead land acquisition efforts across Brookfield’s Arizona portfolio, identifying high-impact growth opportunities and expanding partnerships.

“Brookfield has a strong reputation, is well capitalized and is uniquely positioned to be the developer of choice as our builder partners increasingly adopt land-light models,” said Abrams. “I’m excited to join a forward-thinking team and help grow our land investment through strategic acquisitions in master-planned communities, lot servicing and land banking.”

Brad Chelton, President of Brookfield Residential US Land, noted that Abrams brings unmatched insight and energy to the role.

“Few people understand Arizona’s land market as deeply as Greg does,” said Chelton. “His strategic approach, professionalism, and extensive network will be a tremendous asset as we continue to expand our presence and deliver value to our builder partners.”

A longtime resident of Desert Ridge, a master-planned community in northeast Phoenix, Abrams lives with his wife, Liz, two teenagers, Evan and Ashley, and their Vizsla, Lulu. An avid outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys hiking, golfing, and skiing during his downtime.

For more information about B

The Action-Packed Weekend at WestWorld and Around Scottsdale Will Include Six Polo Matches, Including Army vs. Navy, Sunday Brunch & Open-Air Tent

The unique Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos will return to WestWorld of Scottsdale this November, and match-ups are now set for the most-attended polo event in the United States. Dubbed “The Best Polo Event in the World” by the captain of the Wales Polo Team, this year’s festivities will span a record four days and coincide with the new WestWorld Art & Wine Experience onsite. The combination of sports, art and culture the Scottsdale Polo Party is bringing to the site will make it an unforgettable weekend in Arizona.

The 14th edition of the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships returns Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 8 and 9, 2025, for expanded action, with teams from around the globe descending on the desert for six exhilarating polo matches and plenty of additional on- and off-field festivities.

From live musical performances and exotic car displays to fashion shows featuring runway-ready looks and even four-legged friends, this year’s Scottsdale Polo Party promises all of the energy, excitement and elegance fans have come to expect from one of the state’s premier events.

Match-ups for the 2025 Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships are as follows:

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025

• 10 a.m. – Arizona Polo Club vs. New Orleans Polo Club
• Noon – Army vs. Navy (first-time appearance)
• 2 p.m. – Wine Country Polo Club (defending champions) vs. Wales National Polo Team (signature match)
• 4 p.m. – Nashville Polo Team vs. Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club

Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025

• 11 a.m. – Battle of the Sexes
• 1 p.m. – International All-Stars Match

Even more exciting, for the first time – The Scottsdale Polo Party will also run concurrently with the brand new WestWorld Art & Wine Experience, which will embed into the event and welcome 100 artists and craftsmen, 20 acclaimed Arizona wineries and plenty of additional fanfare, from interactive art demonstrations to gourmet food and luxury lifestyle exhibits.

The 14th annual Polo Party will include all the fan favorites like the Canine Couture by Lugari Pet Salon, World’s Longest Catwalk Fashion Show by Phoenix Fashion Week and the Casa Amigos DayClub. Several changes are coming to the event’s layout and experience, with the fan-favorite Barrett-Jackson Champagne & Jazz Lounge now featuring an open-air style format as polo goers soak up November’s ideal temperatures.

“While the polo matches are undoubtedly the main event, the energy, atmosphere and overall experience surrounding them is a big part of what keeps people coming back year after year,” said Beli Merdovic, General Manager of Bentley Scottsdale, the event’s longtime title sponsor. “The matches will be preceded by a new Welcoming Night at Gerbert Contemporary in Old Town Scottsdale during the Scottsdale Art Walk and a Friday evening VIP reception for the participating teams and sponsors.”

The event’s November timing also gives out-of-town guests a prime opportunity to see Scottsdale at its best, with sunny skies, ideal temperatures and plenty of cultural events and festivals setting the stage for an unforgettable fall escape. There are also numerous high-end hotels and resorts located within close proximity to WestWorld, making it easy for guests to access all of the polo action and explore the area’s top attractions.

Tickets and tables are now on sale at ThePoloParty.com. Look for more updates and additional information coming soon.

Photo Credit: TSMC Arizona

It HAD been nothing but sunshine and roses when it comes to new jobs and incoming businesses in Arizona, and by extension Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. But new information shows that those good times seem to have ground to a screeching halt, with significant political ramifications attached to that.

New data shows that Arizona has had a dramatic fall from an economic powerhouse to 47th in job creation, presenting a significant political challenge for Hobbs as she navigates her first term. The state that once boasted 96% labor force growth between 2000 and 2019 now finds itself shedding jobs while neighbors like Texas and Florida surge ahead.

For Hobbs, these numbers represent both immediate political vulnerability and long-term governance challenges. With Arizona losing 1,900 net jobs this year while comparable states like Washington and Tennessee created tens of thousands, critics will inevitably question her administration’s economic stewardship. The 4.1% unemployment rate offers some political cover, but the underlying trend tells a concerning story.

The timing couldn’t be worse politically. Federal policy uncertainty around tariffs and interest rates, factors largely beyond state control, are nonetheless likely to be weaponized against Hobbs by Republicans both in the legislature and candidates looking to dethrone her, namely Karrin Taylor-Robson and Andy Biggs. The layoffs at the Arizona Department of Economic Security, attributed to decreased federal funding, highlight the delicate balance between federal partnerships and state autonomy that defines modern governance.

However, Hobbs can point to promising developments that may not yet show in current statistics. The massive $165 billion Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company investment and a record 487 projects in the Arizona Commerce Authority pipeline suggest economic momentum building beneath surface-level job numbers.

The real test for Hobbs will be whether she can effectively communicate that Arizona’s current struggles reflect broader economic transitions rather than policy failures, and her ability to tie them to national Republican leadership much like how Republicans did with Biden last election. With construction slowing, migration declining, and AI reshaping employment, her administration must demonstrate that Arizona is still positioned for growth, or she will be a one-term governor.

Superintendent, thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with us. Education is always a hot-button subject in our state and so it’s an honor to get to hear from the person at the very top of our educational system.

You’ve had a long career in Arizona public service; what first motivated you to get involved in politics and education?

I was practicing law, and I had four children in preschool. I had gone to an excellent public school in a New York suburb, chosen at the time as one of the best in the country. I wanted my children to have an excellent public education. I thought the best way to assure that was to serve on the school board for my district. I served on the school board long enough to hand a diploma to all four of the children, 24 years, 10 years as the board president.

To earn your current term you defeated sitting Superintendent Kathy Hoffman. Ousting an incumbent is never easy; what do you think was the determining factor in that race in what some might have considered an upset victory?

Arizonans tend to vote for incumbents in statewide general elections. When I unseated Supt. Hoffman, it was the first defeat for an incumbent in a statewide election in 50 years. She had been focused on everything except academics: social emotional learning, transsexuals, etc. I ran to get the focus back on academics and that was a message that resonated.

Education in Arizona is often framed as being in crisis: teacher shortages, funding concerns, achievement gaps. Do you believe the public narrative is fair? What’s not being talked about enough?

It is partly true. But we have many excellent schools in Arizona. We are 51st in funding per-pupil out of 50 states and the district of Columbia. But in the national math test we were in the middle. Some schools deserve praise for this.

Often, I might disapprove of some things a district is doing but strongly approve of others.  For example, I fought bitterly with The Tucson Unified District over their ethnic studies program that included critical race theory.  But I have travelled a number of times to Tucson to bring awards to individual schools in the district for excellent academic outcomes.  Also, the District’s program Opening Minds Through the Arts is excellent and I have promoted it to other districts.

In your current term as Superintendent, you’ve made headlines for taking strong stances on curriculum and school oversight. What do you see as your guiding principle when making these decisions?

The guiding principle is to focus on academics. The media likes to focus on controversy, which is understandable because it’s more interesting. But 90 percent of my time and effort and that of the department is in helping the schools improve their academics. We have 15 initiatives to do that, and I am involved in every one, and I’m working hard.

As an example, we send improvement teams, highly qualified teachers and administrators, to help schools. One of their projects was to help the bottom 5 percent, about 90 schools. After we gave that help, 70 percent of the schools were no longer in the bottom 5 percent. Another example is that we adopted the fifth grade of a school in a very poor neighborhood near our office. Weekly, people from our department went to help teachers improve their teaching and to teach some classes. After a year, math scores went up 27percent. This proves that poor students can learn as well as rich students if they are properly taught.

Where do you stand on the role of technology, school choice, and curriculum transparency in the future of Arizona classrooms?

Technology: I am bringing the tools for tomorrow to the schools today. There’s an artificial intelligence program Called Khanmigo that does not replace teachers, it helps them. It gives them the equivalent of two assistants doing the grunt work, so they can focus more on creative teaching. It gives the students 24 hours a day, 365 days a year of tutoring. So, if tests show that students are not learning something, the teacher can tell them to go on Khanmigo and get tutoring. This helps ensure that a student does not go to the next grade having failed to understand a significant amount of what was taught. The Dept paid for 160,000 students to have this. We have a program to greatly expand the number of students that will have this tool available next year.

School choice. I’ve been a strong advocate of school choice since I was in the legislature. In my time there, there was a bill that passed the Senate to limit the growth of charter schools. The house bill did not have that provision. I was the chair of the conference committee to reconcile the two bills, and the first thing I did was to kill the provision that would have limited the growth of charter schools. I thought parents should have as few or as many as they wanted. As a result, when I left office after my first two terms to become Attorney General, Arizona had the highest percentage of students in charter schools of the 50 states. Now I am a strong advocate of Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. My efforts to guard against abuse, so that the program would survive, is what has brought the primary against me.

Critics have accused you of politicizing education, particularly around issues like diversity programs or school library materials. How do you respond to that criticism and where do you draw the line between education policy and political ideology?

I believe the most interesting philosophical divide in our country today is between people like me, who believe in individual merit, and those who would substitute racial entitlements. The problem with racial entitlements is that they do nothing to encourage hard work, conscientiousness, or creativity. If they won out, the United States would become a mediocre nation, and China would be the leader in the world, calling the shots, if you can imagine the world like that. I do not see this fight as political or ideological. I see it as fighting for excellence against mediocrity.

What do you believe Arizona schools are doing right that doesn’t get enough attention?

I believe I addressed this under three above.

Looking back at your time as Attorney General, how did that role shape your understanding of how the law intersects with public education? Do you ever find your legal background influencing your current work?

I believe that being a lawyer is a big advantage as Supt. of schools. To fight for excellence and against mediocrity one has to know how to fight.

Looking back, how has your approach to public service changed from when you first held office to now?

I don’t believe there’s been any change as my goals and methods have remained the same.

What do you do outside of politics? Any books, hobbies, or routines that help you stay grounded or even just distracted from the headlines?

I am a serious amateur classical pianist.

I have soloed with a number of local orchestras such as the Phoenix Philharmonic and the Yuma Orchestra. I had a chamber of music group that met at my house every Sunday for over 20 years. I’ve also been an enthusiast for water skiing. It combines excellent exercise with beautiful surroundings. Arizona has 10 lakes on which one can water ski, and my children have water skied on nine out of the 10.

Finally, when your time in public service eventually comes to an end, how would you like to be remembered by Arizonans? What’s the legacy you hope to leave behind?

I would like People to say “he successfully fought for excellence against mediocrity. “

By Alexander Lomax

Axon CEO Rick Smith. Photo Credit: Jim Poulin, Phoenix Business Journal

2024 was a good year to be Rick Smith, but not as good of a year to be a taxpayer in Scottsdale.

The CEO of Axon earned the dubious distinction of being America’s highest-paid chief executive last year. Yet despite his astronomical compensation package worth $165 MILLION, Smith apparently still needs taxpayers to subsidize his corporate ambitions.

Axon’s proposed massive headquarters and apartment complex in Scottsdale represents a stunning display of corporate welfare dependency. We should never forget that Axon’s rezoning end-around on the parcel of land that it wants to put its apartment megacomplex on was not only purposely misleading to the public, but singlehandedly shortchanged tens of millions of dollars from Arizona’s schools via the Arizona State Land Trust. In short, this subterfuge allowed it to be purchased for a massively lower price than it would have been if it had been purchased for its current intended use.

Tens of millions stolen from Arizona schools by the best paid CEO in America, all so he can build the biggest apartment complex in Arizona history for private benefit…I’m sorry, but why aren’t people in the streets with torches and pitchforks? 

The irony is impossible to ignore. Smith could build the project himself solely with one year’s worth of compensation. Here’s a CEO who could personally fund small nations asking working families to chip in for his pet project. If the headquarters expansion is truly essential for business operations, why did Axon feel the need to screw over Arizona students instead of using the company’s record-breaking profits to cover the costs?

This isn’t economic development; it’s wealth redistribution in reverse. While Smith lectures about fiscal responsibility and free markets, his company demands the very government intervention that successful businesses typically avoid.

The message is clear: even America’s most lavishly compensated executives believe taxpayers owe them something. Perhaps it’s time to ask whether corporate welfare recipients like Axon deserve the same scrutiny we apply to other beneficiaries of public assistance.

After all, if you can afford to be America’s highest-paid CEO, you can afford to pay market rate for your own headquarters.

BNSF’s Attempts At Gaining Support For Unpopular Rail Hub in Western Maricopa County Backfire With Bogus and Sexually Suggestive Email Addresses From Zip Codes Far From Impacted Area

(Wittmann, Ariz.) Raunchy or fake email addresses, so-called supporters far away from impacted areas, possible auto generated email addresses: That’s what an inspection of email addresses, from so-called supporters of a controversial rail hub proposed for western Maricopa County, found.

Burlington Northern Santa Fe is claiming its proposed 4,200-acre rail hub which would create noise and air pollution, increase crime and traffic, and destroy the quality of life in Wittmann and the surrounding areas such as Surprise, Sun City, Sun City West, and Wickenburg, has a long list of supporters according to emails submitted to Maricopa County.

A closer inspection of those email addresses, obtained from Maricopa County, reveals questionable or downright raunchy email addresses with a vast majority of zip codes outside Maricopa County District Four, where BNSF wants to build the rail hub.

Some emails resemble joke names or handles unlikely to be used in legitimate public input (please note adult content):

jaymesuckscock@gmail.com
crazyzoomom@yahoo.com
armyofgodaz@yahoo.com
gummybearsrainbowsandgir@gmail.com
gothic.horrors@icloud.com
bobbertbob@bob.com

To make matters worse, BNSF actually submitted this support list to Maricopa County, apparently unaware of the outlandish names it contained. Follow the link for a copy of the email list along with BNSF’s questionable solicitation letter. Warren Buffett, through his company Berkshire Hathaway, bought BNSF in 2010.Read More

By Ronald Sampson

Photo Credit: Arizona PBS

We are officially past the halfway point of the first year of Lisa Borowsky’s time as the Mayor of Scottsdale, which is enough time to reflect on how things have been going. The verdict? It’s been tough…very tough. But the obstacles haven’t come from where one would think. The obstacles are internal ones.

The latest obstacle came recently as Borowsky’s efforts to halt a controversial Old Town parking garage project have hit another roadblock, with the city council voting 4-3 against her latest attempt to delay the development, a situation that has widely become known as “ParkingGate”, and also “the silliest scandal in Scottsdale history”.

The proposed three-story parking garage at First Street and Brown Avenue has been quite the point of contention. Borowsky has repeatedly tried to pause the project, citing concerns about its impact on the historic character of Old Town, with one business owner warning it will “desecrate the Mission and decimate area businesses.”

What’s most notable however is that the opposition, like in previous cases, has been from fellow Republicans. A majority of four council members, Barry Graham, Kathy Littlefield, Jan Dubauskas, and Adam Kwasman, have been dubbed “the bloc” by veteran Councilwoman Solange Whitehead and have been a frequent headache for Borowsky. This pattern continued at the June 24 council meeting when they blocked her motion to schedule a future hearing on the garage location. Despite support from Whitehead and new Councilwoman Maryann McAllen, Borowsky’s motion failed. The First and Brown garage project will proceed as planned, marking another victory for the council majority and a fourth consecutive defeat for the mayor’s parking agenda.

Mind you, this is just another instance of the conservative majority voting against the Mayor and stifling her agenda…or worse. In a shocking move, three councilmembers called for a legal investigation into the mayor. They also voted against funding staffers that Borowksy had requested. One would assume they’d be on the same side, but nothing could be further from the truth. There is very clearly a deep dislike between Mayor Borowsky and the conservative majority, to a degree that it seems personal.

So where do they go from here? Simply put, they’ve got to find a way to move past those personal grievances, to put them in the rear view and focus on the issues that impact our city. They campaigned on similar issues, and the voters expect them to deliver on those. They are leaving a lot on the table; they could get done pretty much anything they’d like to if they can find a way to get along together.

So when will this happen? Your guess is as good as mine, but every day that passes by is a day lost towards implementing their vision for the city, and that’s unfortunate.

Pizza from Craft 64

We love Scottsdale, as do you, and survey after survey continues to show that our city stands tall against everywhere else in the city. But we weren’t expecting the results of a recent survey…

Once again, Scottsdale has proven that excellence isn’t just about pristine golf courses and luxury resorts. The desert jewel of Arizona has secured multiple spots among the world’s finest pizzerias in 2025, reinforcing its reputation as a city that consistently punches above its weight in lifestyle rankings.

Craft 64 and Il Bosco, both Scottsdale establishments, have earned coveted positions among the top pizzerias, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with acclaimed venues from culinary capitals like New York and Los Angeles. Given Scottsdale’s relatively modest size compared to these metropolitan giants, these rankings are especially noteworthy.

This latest culinary recognition follows a familiar pattern for Scottsdale: a city that routinely appears at or near the top of national lifestyle surveys. Whether it’s being ranked among America’s best places to live, top golf destinations, or premier wellness retreats, Scottsdale has mastered the art of delivering world-class experiences across multiple categories.

The pizza recognition speaks to something deeper about Scottsdale’s character: an unwavering commitment to quality that attracts both talented chefs and discerning diners. Craft 64’s artisanal approach and Il Bosco’s authentic Italian techniques represent the kind of culinary craftsmanship that has become synonymous with the Scottsdale brand.

For residents and visitors alike, these accolades serve as validation of what locals have long known: that Scottsdale doesn’t just compete with major cities, it often surpasses them. In a world where authentic quality is increasingly rare, Scottsdale continues to deliver experiences that earn global recognition, one perfectly crafted pizza at a time. And yet again, we find ourselves thankful that we live in a city like this.

By Councilmember Barry Graham

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

Being a Democratic governor with a Republican-controlled state House and Senate is never an easy proposition, and Governor Katie Hobbs has found this out firsthand. Unable to control the agenda, she has mostly been relegated to one act of power: the veto pen. Now that the legislative session is over, we know how often she has used that power this year, and the answer is…a lot.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs finished the 2025 legislative session with a record-making flourish, vetoing her final batch of bills on July 1 and bringing her total rejections to 178 measures, an all-time high. The previous record? 123 vetoes, which was set by…Katie Hobbs in 2023. She is quickly becoming the Michael Phelps of the veto pen.

The governor’s most significant veto targeted Senate Bill 1001, which aimed to address Arizona’s notorious reputation for slow election returns. The state has consistently been among the last to finalize results, with delays plaguing both the 2022 gubernatorial race and the 2024 presidential election. The problem primarily stems from “late-early ballots” – mail-in ballots that voters drop off at polling places on Election Day. In 2024, there were about 265,000 such ballots, including over 210,000 in Maricopa County. These ballots require signature verification that can’t begin until after polls close.

Senator J.D. Mesnard’s solution would have allowed on-site ID verification for ballot drop-offs after Friday night, eliminating the post-election signature verification bottleneck. However, voters who chose traditional drop-off without ID verification would be removed from the active early voter list. Hobbs rejected this approach, arguing it would penalize voters who rely on family members or caregivers to deliver their ballots and can’t appear in person for ID checks.

The governor also vetoed Senator Wendy Rogers’ proposal to ban photo enforcement for speeding and red-light violations. Rogers argued that automated systems lack the human judgment of on-site officers and primarily serve as revenue generators for communities. Hobbs, who rejected identical legislation two years ago, maintained her position that photo enforcement is a valuable safety tool for local law enforcement.

Despite the vetoes, Hobbs expressed willingness to work with legislators next year on election improvements, emphasizing the need to balance speed with accessibility and security. With 178 vetoes this session, the governor has clearly established herself as a formidable check on the Republican-controlled legislature. That said, 2026 will bring a whole new set of challenges.

After all, next year will be an election year, and Hobbs will be making her case to keep her seat. Will blocking purported excesses of unchecked governance and defeating the worst impulses of one-party governance be enough of a case? There will be little else she can do.

Photo Credit: paradisevalleyaz.gov

Move over, Beverly Hills… there’s a new sheriff in town when it comes to being a playground for the wealthy. It’s Paradise Valley that has quietly become the ultimate playground for elite athletes who want to live like royalty without the California price tag or the Miami hurricane drama.

Picture this: Mike Tyson, Michael Phelps, and Odell Beckham Jr. cruising around in G-Wagons and Bentleys through a town that looks like Beverly Hills had a baby with a luxury desert resort. At under 14,000 residents Paradise Valley is small enough to feel exclusive but big enough to house some seriously impressive mansions on sprawling multi-acre lots.

Former NHL goalie Eddie Lack nailed it when he called it “Beverly Hills, Arizona.” Big houses, big lots, lots of greenery, and lots of wealthy people who know a good thing when they see it.

Here’s where Paradise Valley becomes a smart play for famous athlete: taxes. While California athletes are getting hammered with income taxes as high as 14.4%, Arizona keeps it simple with a flat 2.5% rate. Do the math – that’s a massive difference when you’re pulling in millions per year.

And the bang for your buck? Chef’s kiss. Real estate expert Catherine Reagor puts it perfectly: “What we get for your money in Paradise Valley is five times as much as you can in California or even the East Coast.” A $14 million Paradise Valley mansion would cost you $25-40 million in LA. Same luxury, way less financial pain.

Then there’s the lifestyle perks. We don’t have to tell you about the over 300 days of sunshine annually and 370 golf courses in the area. While East Coast stars are dealing with snow and 34-degree February temperatures, Paradise Valley residents are hitting the links in 75-degree weather. The location is clutch too…close enough to downtown Phoenix’s nightlife and Old Town Scottsdale’s restaurant scene, but far enough away to maintain that peaceful, private vibe that celebrities crave.

Here’s the genius part: many athletes buy their homes through LLCs, especially Delaware ones that offer ironclad privacy protection. You might not see every celebrity name on the resident list, but they’re there. It’s like a secret society of sports legends, hidden in plain sight. Some stars, like Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald, go public with their Paradise Valley love, buying under their own names as a statement that this is home. But for those who want to disappear from the spotlight, Paradise Valley offers the perfect refuge.

PV has cracked the code on what elite athletes really want: space to breathe, sunshine to train, privacy to live, and enough money left over to actually enjoy it all. It’s not just about the mansion – it’s about the lifestyle, the community, and the peace of mind that comes with finding your own little slice of paradise.

And honestly? When you can get Beverly Hills luxury with Arizona taxes and year-round golf weather, why would you live anywhere else?

Scottsdale has long been a city that has pushed the perceived limits of excellence further and further. It can rest on its laurels, but that is not its nature, and a brand new acquisition and planned upgrade will test the possibilities of that push that quest for excellence in a way that perhaps we haven’t yet seen.

Scottsdale Quarter has long stood as a beacon of luxury retail in the Southwest, but it is about to see a second act; FalconEye Ventures and Vestar recently teamed up to acquire the 755,000-square-foot open-air mixed-use destination and announced a $100 million capital improvement program that promises to transform this already impressive property into something truly extraordinary.

The magic of Scottsdale Quarter lies in its perfect blend of luxury and accessibility. Home to iconic retail brands such as Apple, Restoration Hardware, lululemon, Jenni Kayne, Veronica Beard, Dominick’s Steakhouse, and True Food Kitchen, the center has cultivated a sophisticated shopping and dining ecosystem that attracts discerning visitors from across the region. Serving more than 4.5 million visitors annually, Scottsdale Quarter has proven its appeal as both a local gathering place and a regional destination.

The upcoming transformation will focus on three key areas that promise to elevate the experience significantly. The capital improvement program will focus on tenant curation, infrastructure enhancements, and experiential retail concepts designed to differentiate the property. This strategic approach suggests visitors can expect more thoughtfully curated brand partnerships, upgraded amenities, and innovative retail experiences that go beyond traditional shopping.

Perhaps most exciting is the vision to create “a vibrant live-work-play environment that blends contemporary luxury retail, chef-driven dining, and innovation-focused office space”. This holistic approach could establish Scottsdale Quarter as Arizona’s premier mixed-use destination, where technology companies, luxury shoppers, and food enthusiasts converge in one dynamic location.

Was this necessary? No, Scottsdale Quarter was already excellent as it stood. But this represents something more…the fanatical pursuit of something greater. It’s an evolution toward becoming the Southwest’s definitive luxury lifestyle destination. And we should feel fortunate to live in a city that never rests with “good enough”.

By Councilwoman Solange Whitehead

These days, it can feel like the world wants us all to pick a side. But let’s face it—that hurts Scottsdale and our nation. Debating issues is as American as apple pie, and speaking freely is our fundamental right. We can’t back down during these scary times. Instead, we must continue to befriend and care about those with differing views.

As President Abraham Lincoln reminded us, “We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies.”

That sentiment belongs in City Hall, too. Seven of us sit on the dais—not because we chose each other, but because the voters did. No matter who is elected, our job is to serve the residents. While this year has had its controversies, the City Council is getting important things done.

Beginning this year, meetings start with an invocation meant to guide the Council’s work. We take turns selecting the message.  For this 249th year of our nation’s founding, I’d like to share my recent message to Council:

“For my moment of silence, I want to share something I heard on the radio from an NIH scientist: ‘You can’t be brave if you’re not scared.’ I want to pray for bravery for all of us. To invoke what President Lincoln called the ‘better angels of our nature’ and choose to be united when there are those trying to divide us.  Let’s use our differences to find the best path forward for our residents and I want to share my appreciation for all my Council colleagues.”

This July 4th, let’s celebrate by living the values that built America.

Solange Whitehead, City of Scottsdale Councilwoman

Photo Credit: Chart House website

Recently we spoke about the rebirth of Durant’s, the iconic Phoenix restaurant. The group that is behind that is not satisfied with simply one culinary transformation story, and is the creative force behind the rebirth of another classic restaurant.

After 35 remarkable years, Chart House has served its final prime rib in Scottsdale, closing the curtain on an era that defined luxury dining in the Valley. Since opening in 1990, this iconic location became synonymous with special occasions, business celebrations, and romantic evenings, drawing diners with its famous oversized shrimp cocktails and that unmistakable clubby atmosphere that made every meal feel like an event.

The Scottsdale Chart House wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a destination. Those floor-to-ceiling windows installed during the 2015 renovation perfectly framed the stunning views of McCormick Ranch’s Camelback Lake and the majestic Camelback Mountain beyond. For decades, it served as the backdrop for countless anniversaries, graduations, and milestone moments, earning its place in the hearts of Valley diners.

But every ending opens the door to exciting new beginnings, and this transition couldn’t be in better hands. Prime Steak Concepts, the masterminds behind Dominick’s, Steak 44, Ocean 44, and the recently acquired Durant’s, are taking over this prime real estate with ambitious plans that honor the location’s legacy while creating something entirely fresh.

Jeff Mastro’s vision for a massive 12,000-14,000 square foot steakhouse promises to be spectacular. Growing up just blocks away in McCormick Ranch, he understands the significance of this spot and the responsibility that comes with it. The planned demolition and complete rebuild will create a warm, contemporary space that maximizes those breathtaking lakefront and mountain views that made Chart House so special.

While we’ll miss Chart House’s timeless charm, the prospect of a new flagship from the Mastro family, expected to open in June 2027, has us genuinely excited. But ultimately, it’s always heartening to see an institution have a long and glorious run, only to see it find the next chapter of its life with something new. Here’s to that next chapter…cheers.

Photo Credit: Cronkite News

Well, that was fun while it lasted: the Phoenix Suns have officially shipped Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and a handful of draft picks, thus ending one of the most expensive experiments in recent NBA history. And by “experiment,” I mean watching ownership light money on fire while pretending they had a plan.

Let’s recap this masterclass in organizational dysfunction, shall we? Two and a half years ago, the Suns mortgaged their entire future to acquire Durant, trading away promising young talent and multiple first-round picks. The return? A disappointing 36-46 season that ended with them missing the playoffs entirely and firing their coach. Nothing screams “championship culture” like finishing 11th in the Western Conference with a roster that costs more than some small countries’ GDP.

The most delicious irony? The Suns brass probably congratulated themselves on this “asset management,” as if trading a 36-year-old superstar for spare parts was some kind of 4D chess move rather than damage control. They turned a playoff contender into a rebuilding project faster than you can say “luxury tax.”

But hey, at least they got Jalen Green, who’s shown flashes of brilliance between stretches of looking completely lost. And Dillon Brooks, whose greatest skill is annoying opposing players – a perfect metaphor for this entire franchise’s approach to roster construction.

The real winners here? Rockets fans, who just got a Hall of Famer for the price of their bench. Meanwhile, Suns fans get to watch their team “develop young talent” while ownership counts the money they’re saving. Classic Phoenix sports: building hope just to crush it spectacularly.

And where do we stand now? New coach, one massive star who is wasting a Hall of Fame career and one star that is on the wrong side of 30 and likely to be dealt. A thoroughly incomplete roster that now needs a full rebuild minus Devin Booker. The championship window is closed, and I’d say that it was fun while it lasted, but no…it was disappointing.

Well, maybe the Cardinals will do something this year…

The Town Hall Post Office has been an integral part of the Paradise Valley community for more than 60 years, and town leaders are asking the United States Postal Service (USPS) to keep it open. The USPS notified the Town earlier this month that it plans to close the branch at the end of September.

“Our Town post office pre-dates the current town hall and is a community hub for neighbors and friends,” Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton said. “I have encouraged our state and federal legislative leaders to weigh in so we can reach a positive resolution that keeps the post office open.”

The Town received notice from USPS on June 2, 2025, that it intends to exercise the termination clause in the contract with no further explanation. The Town Council wants to preserve this important community hub and immediately reached out to regional USPS leadership. The Postal Service bears no expenses to maintain the location as the Town owns the building and pays for the supplies and personnel.  This is the only postal location within the town limits.

“We let the Postal Service know there is no upside to closing our small branch, while it would eliminate an important service that is a part of the fabric of our community,” added Mayor Stanton. “We don’t have shopping malls, libraries or other public gathering spaces. People go to the post office, stop by and say hello to town employees and often strike up a conversation with a neighbor.”

In its letter, the USPS indicated the Paradise Valley Town Hall Post Office will close on Sept. 30, 2025.

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) has been under a microscope lately, with examinations and criticisms coming with varying degrees of merit. Regular readers will remember that SUSD curriculum came under fire recently for what some people have considered “woke” (you can get up to date here). 

The criticisms have recently hit an all new echelon however, as a new and powerful player came into the conversation to weigh in on the SUSD issue.

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, has publicly challenged SUSD, accusing the district’s newly adopted social studies materials of violating a federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) pledge and promoting anti‑law‑enforcement narratives 

Horne, joined by Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan, has stated he will report the district to federal authorities for “woke” curriculum that he claims presents a biased, unbalanced view of policing, particularly in its discussion of movements like Black Lives Matter and related protests 

Scottsdale USD officials rebutted these allegations, emphasizing that the curriculum adheres to Arizona standards and was adopted through a rigorous, transparent process. They argue that the content reflects well‑considered historical context and is in line with materials used in other districts across the state 

Horne’s threat to involve federal oversight stems from a signed federal agreement to avoid DEI content. He warns that the curriculum breaches that commitment and may endanger federal funding—should judicial rulings change 

So what should one think of it? As we stated previously, it seems as though these subjects could have been avoided entirely, as they were so recent so as to not warrant a historical perspective at this time. Additionally, to talk about these subjects and to not even acknowledge some of the negative consequences, including rioting and destruction in a few American cities, isn’t exactly providing a truly balanced look.

That said, we hope all parties move on from this quickly, because as far as issues go, this is a fairly minor one. The less politicians get involved in education the better; it is something that is best left to professionals…i.e. teachers.

Inflation…it was the political hot potato of the last elections. It has hit us all since the pandemic and has entered nearly every single aspect of our lives in some capacity. Note that I said “nearly all” however; some places have been safe havens, protected (mostly inorganically) from price increases.

One of those safe havens were Scottsdale’s schools…until now.

In response to surging food and labor expenses, Scottsdale Unified School District has announced substantial increases in meal prices, with some lunches rising by as much as 66% 

While exact dollar amounts vary, the district explained this adjustment is essential to maintaining current nutrition standards without compromising quality or service. District leaders emphasized that meal programs don’t generate profit, they operate on tight budgets, so these rate increases are necessary to prevent deficits that could otherwise impact students.

The price adjustments will affect different school levels differently. Elementary, middle, and high school meals may see varied increases based on baseline costs and supplier agreements. Despite the hike, the district continues to provide free or reduced-price lunches for eligible families under federal guidelines, and those provisions remain untouched.

SUSD says that it plans to closely monitor program finances to ensure meals remain affordable and nutritious. With rose-colored glasses on, you could say that announcement also signals the district’s commitment to fiscal responsibility: covering rising costs while striving to maintain high standards and equitable access for all students. But is that really the case, or is it a matter of poor sourcing and cost management?

Considering that this is the first increase since the 2017-2018 school year, we can easily check and see the overall impact of inflation since then. $100 in 2017 would be equal to $131 in today’s money, implying 31% cumulative inflation over that time. Utilizing a food price inflation calculator, that rate is slightly higher: 34%. So while the lower end of the price changes imply a good deal, it doesn’t come near the highest increase of 66%.

While we believe that SUSD is acting in good faith, this price increase does seem a bit excessive. Perhaps more frequent increases would help buffer that shock. In the meantime, perhaps we can take solace in having gotten a bit of a free ride for the last eight years.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

It’s been a tough year for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Their new ace pitcher is out, injured for the year. At the time of writing the team is sitting exactly at .500, good enough for 4th place in the division. And their once impressive ballpark is decaying quickly, and while a novel plan to fund renovations was proposed, it faced stiff opposition (you can read out coverage here). But as of recently, at least for the last item there is significant reason for hope.

A significant problem also had a reasonable solution; the Diamondbacks’ ballpark, Chase Park, is falling apart. Representative Justin Wilmeth crafted a bill that would fund improvements to the park without raising taxes. Sounds great, right? The solution simply would have diverted taxes collected within the ballpark and adjacent and related buildings towards the renovations. That way only people who are going to games are paying to renovate the stadium. A win-win, right?

Not quite. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego threw water on the plan, objecting to the fact that those funds that are currently being collected at the stadium are currently being utilized by the city. She came out in strong objection to the plan, but thankfully for Diamondbacks fans, her voice might not be strong enough.

The Wilmeth bill with a number of sponsors passed a major hurdle, passing through the State Senate with a 19-11 vote, pulling a few Democratic votes and making it a bipartisan vote. The House passed a similar bill earlier this year in a similarly bipartisan vote. Now the Senate is done with their business for the year, and since the Senate bill is slightly different from the original House bill, the revised bill goes back to the House.

However, while the bill is essentially certain to pass the House as comfortably as it did last time, where it breezed through with a 35-25 vote, there is one last hurdle: Governor Katie Hobbs. Hobbs, who has generally been an ally of Mayor Gallego, would still need to sign it into law. If she were to veto the bill, it is not a guarantee that there will be the votes in the House and Senate to override it.

That said, things look good for this bill, which is good for all of us. Refusal to upgrade a venue whose roof no longer closes properly would force ownership into difficult decisions, and wouldn’t rule out a move. This is a pragmatic solution that will help ensure that the Diamondbacks remain in place for the next generation to appreciate, which after the departure of the Coyotes is a welcome relief for local sports fans.

Dear Friends:

Over the weekend the Scottsdale Progress printed my opinion piece about Axon. If you didn’t get to see it in the paper, I have reprinted it for you below:

Hi Christine, thank you so much for your time. Your story has been an interesting one; a former Arizona Teacher of the Year turned politician/public servant. For those who are unaware, you first ran for office in 2018, the year of the massive Red for Ed protests in the state. Was there one single catalyst or event that first prompted you to run for office?

I couldn’t get the image out of my head of one of my 11th grade students asking me if kids in Arizona were worth less than kids in other states. I was a bit taken aback by the question and asked him to clarify what he meant. He told me that Arizona’s kids were in last place for education funding, so Arizona kids must be worth less. That was a sucker punch to me, and it never really left my mind, so when I was approached to run for office, even though I was very reluctant to do so, my student’s words kept running through my mind. I decided that I needed to do everything possible to make sure other students don’t feel like they are worth less than kids in other states.

What grade(s) or disciplines did you teach when you were a teacher?

Mostly 11th and 12th grade English, but I’ve taught all grades and levels from 6th grade through 12th grade.

Obviously that is quite a drastic shift in your career, and undoubtedly the reality of life as a State Senator was in some ways different than what you thought it would be. How did reality end up differing from your expectations?

I didn’t expect that most of my students would exhibit more maturity than many of the folks at the Capitol.

Regarding your time in office, what accomplishments are you most proud of? And what do you wish you would have been able to accomplish but were unable to?

There’s a lot I am proud of, and something that certainly ranks near the top is the work my office did on behalf of constituents. People may not realize how often legislators get pleas for assistance from their constituents for all sorts of issues–like having trouble navigating specific tax issues or unemployment, for example–and being in a position to help many of those folks makes me proud. 

What’s one thing that you wish the populace knew about the Arizona legislature that they don’t seem to know?

I wish people realized how extremely partisan, sometimes even toxic, that  it is at the Capitol. Really great bills that would help average Arizonans didn’t see the light of day if the sponsor was a democrat. Even bills that were small, but could save lives or protect kids, wouldn’t get a hearing (which kills a bill) if the sponsor was a democrat. For example, I ran a bill in two different sessions to require that private schools that accept public dollars need to implement fingerprint mandates on adults who will have direct contact with a minor. That bill is about basic safety, but it didn’t go anywhere.  

Tell us about the experience of being a candidate. You’ve only known running in a battleground district, which means you are expected to raise borderline obscene amounts of money and the margins of both victory and defeat have largely been razor-thin. That’s a lot of pressure. What’s that like?

Sure, there’s a great deal of pressure when one is a candidate in a battleground district, but it’s also a significant honor. However, the privilege of running to represent such a diverse constituency doesn’t reduce the pressure on candidates in battleground districts, which meant that I stayed on the campaign trail during my own cancer treatments and within days after my son died.

Obviously public education is an extremely important subject to you. If you could wave a magic wand, what would you change about public education in Arizona?

My magic wand would eliminate the false narrative of failing public schools. The struggles public schools face are a result of systemic and chronic choices to underfund our schools, and it’s been happening for many years. It’s not an accident that we have among the highest class sizes in the nation, the lowest teacher pay, and the least per pupil funding. These were intentional choices the majority party made, which has created a manufactured crisis. Despite all of these challenges, Arizona’s teachers, students, and the parents of those students are working hard each day to achieve success. 

For those who are unaware, you are a Democrat, and Democrats have long been in a “close but no cigar” mode in the legislature, having been the minority party by a thin margin for a while now. In those situations, some people negotiate with the majority party, some are willing to vote with the majority, some prefer to point out their flaws. What did you see your role as a prominent member of the minority party as?

I kept my focus on the unintended consequences of bills. Even seemingly great-sounding bills often come with a price that someone, somewhere in the state, is going to pay, and people need to understand those consequences. I tried hard to represent the constituents of my district, which is one reason why I was one of the most bi-partisan voters in my tenure in the Senate. Since I represented more republicans than democrats, it was important to me to be as bi-partisan as I possibly could. 

Many of our readers will know you as a former Senator in old District 28 and current District 4, which covers parts of Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. Now you are running in District 5, which is just west and is entirely in the city of Phoenix. What prompted this move?

 I feel a deep connection to LD5 , partly because I used to represent roughly 30% of it before redistricting (when it was part of the old LD28) and partly because my dad lived about a mile from where I now live in the last years of his life.

However, that is simply a happy consequence of why I moved. I wanted to downsize and get closer to the running trails in the Mt. Preserve, and–due to the real estate market–that was impossible in LD4. When I found an area I liked, and people found out I’d be in LD5, they started suggesting that I run, especially since Senator Lela Alston, the current LD5 Senator, is termed out. After some initial reluctance, I decided to at least really think it through, and—ultimately—made the decision to go for it.

If/when you return to the legislature, what will some of your priorities be? Education is a given, but in your growth as an elected official, going from what some would say was a single-issue candidate to a more well-rounded leader, what else have you grown an advocacy passion for?

I served on the Transportation Committee for four sessions, and I developed a surprisingly strong interest in issues that affect our transportation systems and infrastructure. I didn’t expect to enjoy serving on that committee as much as I did.

I also have a real passion for mitigating the opioid crisis. We lose too many people to overdoses after they take substances that are laced with fentanyl–usually without the person’s knowledge. Fentanyl-laced pills are killing both addicts and young people who may not be addicts but are foolishly experimenting. There is legislation that could save at least some of those lives–like legalizing more devices and equipment that can test substances for drugs (which is right now illegal) or getting narcan more widely dispersed (although, a lot of movement has thankfully started to happen in this area). I ran the bill to legalize drug-testing equipment in three different sessions, but it didn’t go anywhere, and that simply breaks my heart. That bill can’t solve our opioid crisis–not even close–but it has the potential to save a few (or, who knows…a lot) of lives. 

And, of course, education remains a passion; however, that’s broadened to include all issues that relate to Arizona’s children. 

Finally, we’d love to hear about how you unwind. After a long day of debating bills or raising funds for your campaign, how do you let loose and de-stress for the day?

After a stressful day, I need quiet time, so I’ll draw, read, and run/walk/hike in the Mt. Preserve, which is such a beautiful part of LD5.

Photo Credit: Ross D. Franklin

Much has been made about homelessness in Scottsdale; it was a central platform piece of several people running for City Council and became a talking point of several state legislators. And while the extent of the issue within the city was overstated, the fear that it could spread was an effective one, as shown by the success of the candidates who talked most about it.

Now we have additional information as to the extent of the problem, and while there is some concerning news it should also be placed in the proper context.

Scottsdale’s latest Point-in-Time count shows a worrying uptick in unsheltered individuals, marking the third consecutive year of increases. This most recent count puts the number at 105 homeless people within the city limits. The trend mirrors a countywide surge of 28%, with Maricopa County now home to over 5,200 people without shelter.

Stakeholders say it’s time to go beyond counting: we should be comprehending root causes and expanding capacity. While pointing out that a 400% jump in nearby Fountain Hills had a low base, the increase there still highlights regional distress. But how does this compare to other places? How bad is the problem really?

The current count comes out to one homeless person for every 2,323 residents. While we are loathe to compare the city to larger cities, considering our relative wealth and high standard of living, it does help put it into greater context.

On a per capita basis, Phoenix has over five times more homeless people than Scottsdale. With one homeless person for every 269 residents, the Denver metro area is dealing with a homeless problem that is about 9 times worse than Scottsdale. And to a more extreme example, Los Angeles County has one homeless person for every 128 residents, which calculates to a rate that is over 18 times worse than Scottsdale.

Should we be comparing those cities to Scottsdale? It’s certainly not an apples-to-apples comparison, but perhaps you will find it illuminating as well as a bit comforting.

Scottsdale now faces a pivotal question: will it match the worry with action? It should certainly do something, but it should also keep a level head as to the degree (or relative lack thereof) of the extent of the problem.

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.