Scottsdale Art Week: Presented by Scottsdale Ferrari Will Again Take Place at the Height of Phoenix Metropolitan Area’s Tourist Season in March; Exhibitor Applications for 2026 Now Available Following Impressive Inaugural Event

After a notable debut that saw more than 14,000 attendees, 100+ galleries from across the world and multi-millions in art sold, Scottsdale Art Week: Presented by Scottsdale Ferrari is set to return to WestWorld of Scottsdale March 19 – 22, 2026. The upcoming edition will welcome an even more ambitious lineup of exhibitors, immersive experiences, cultural programming and other exclusive events at the biggest modern and contemporary art show in the Western United States outside of Los Angeles.

The inaugural edition of Scottsdale Art Week, held March 20 – 23, 2025, at WestWorld, welcomed galleries from nine countries showcasing an extensive array of contemporary, modern and Indigenous art, with galleries reporting combined sales in the seven-figures over the course of the four-day event. As momentum builds ahead of the 2026 event, organizers have released exhibitor applications for next year’s festivities, which are available now at ScottsdaleArtWeek.com.

“Our goal was to create the largest cultural event in the Southwest,” said Trey Brennen, co-owner of Scottsdale Art Week. “We had an amazing first year with millions in sales, great crowds and phenomenal cultural programming. We are now hard at work on year two and advancing the momentum for collectors and exhibitors alike. This is a market that knows how to do big things, with the largest collector car auction in the world (Barrett-Jackson), the most attended golf tournament (WM Phoenix Open), the largest Arabian horse show and incredible crowds during MLB’s spring training. Scottsdale Art Week was birthed in the same spirit to be big, meaningful and unique on the American art calendar.”

Many of the galleries that attended the 2025 edition of Scottsdale Art Week have indicated plans to return in 2026, and event organizers expect exhibitor booths to fill fast following the success of the inaugural event. Already a popular springtime destination thanks to its warm, sunny climate, expansive lineup of high-end restaurants, resorts, retailers and spas, and Major League Baseball’s Cactus League Spring training calendar, Scottsdale serves as the perfect backdrop for a spring art fair blending cutting-edge creativity with the city’s signature style and sophistication.

Fair producers are continuing to work closely with important Arizona arts organizations that helped make the first year such a success, including Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, ASU Art Museum and the Center for Creative Photography. Efforts are already underway to further involve notable arts institutions outside of Arizona, too.

For more information on Scottsdale Art Week or to follow developments for next year’s festivities, visit www.scottsdaleartweek.com.

For media or other inquiries, contact Jennifer Parks-Sturgeon at JParks-Sturgeon@RoseAllynpr.com or call (480) 495-3806.

Local Bank Partners With Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute to Support Local Ventures, Encourage Business Growth

Scottsdale Community Bank has a lengthy history of supporting local students and start-ups, and now, it’s expanding its commitment even further through two key partnerships with Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute.

As part of its ongoing efforts, Scottsdale Community Bank sent Vice President of Business Development Julie Stoney to serve as a judge at Venture Devils Demo Day, a large-scale event held Saturday, April 12 at SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center. During the event, ASU students offered up live, investor-style pitches to a judging panel, with student entrepreneurs walking away with more than $256,000 in funding to finance their respective ventures. 38 unique ventures were awarded funding in amounts ranging from $1,000 – $40,000.

“These students have big ideas and bold visions for the future, and hearing them pitch their ventures with so much passion and enthusiasm gives me great hope for the future of our state,” said Stoney. “We’re happy to play even a small part in supporting their growth, seeing their ideas come to fruition and helping them have a shot at real-world funding opportunities.

In addition to its efforts on behalf of Venture Devils, Scottsdale Community Bank also served as a banking resource for the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute’s Small Business Academy powered by SRP. This intensive, six-week bootcamp ended March 4 and welcomed 120 small and mid-sized businesses in distribution, custodial services, software integration, environmental consulting, substation construction and other procurement-based fields, guiding them through expert-led sessions while granting them access to resources and training opportunities they could use to expand operations.

Companies that participated in all six bootcamp sessions had an opportunity to join the Venture Challenge, pitching their businesses in front of a group of industry leaders, procurement specialists and buyers for a chance at up to $20,000 in funding.

Supporting entrepreneurship and offering mentorship is especially important to the team at Scottsdale Community Bank, given that several of its founding members were entrepreneurs themselves. By helping further the efforts of both early-stage entrepreneurs and established business leaders and owners, Scottsdale Community Bank continues to cement itself both a trusted community partner and a reliable resource for local growth and innovation.

For more about Scottsdale Community Bank, visit ScottsdaleCommunityBank.com.

Community Leaders to Share Impactful Stories of “Overcoming Extraordinary Odds”

The Idea Salon returns next month with a timely and thought-provoking theme: “Overcoming Extraordinary Odds.” The third installment of the event series will welcome three bold voices who’ve done exactly that for an evening of raw, real conversation about resilience and their relentless drive to make a difference.

Set for 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 at the San Tan Ford Club at Mountain America Stadium, home of the Arizona State University Sun Devils, The Idea Salon’s Third Edition will welcome the following innovators and leaders whose personal and professional experiences embody the evening’s theme:

• Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State University’s Head Football Coach and the youngest Division I Coach in NCAA football.
• Pastor Warren Stewart, a nationally known faith leader, author and civil rights, immigration and community advocate who led the fight for Arizona’s historic statewide vote for the MLK holiday.
• Bill Way, a Valley resident and Oscar-Nominated, Peabody Award-Winning film producer who is the CEO and co-founder of Fit Via Vi Film Productions.

Members of the media are welcome to attend and capture soundbites and visuals as the conversation unfolds.

In addition to a fireside chat featuring all three icons, attendees will enjoy cocktails and compelling stories in an inspiring setting designed to inspire reflection, conversation and impactful change at the community level.

Designed with the intent of “emancipating innovation,” The Idea Salon unites community leaders and catalysts for change across multiple industries and sectors, with the event’s second edition, held in May 2024, featuring NBA Hall of Famer and eight-time All-Star Steve Nash, who spoke of “Fueled by Failure.” The inaugural Salon welcomed Valley creative entrepreneur Kirk Strawn, who intrigued the audience with a discussion on “Bringing Burning Man Principles to Business.”

“The Idea Salon is much more than a lecture series,” said Anita Lang. “It’s about creating a space where leaders and community members can come together and share impactful, unexpected conversations and unfiltered stories you won’t hear anywhere else.”

Lang founded The Idea Salon in 2024 along with Horizon Strategies Managing Partner Jessica Pacheco & Jason Rose, founder of Rose & Allyn Public Relations, The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, and Quixote Productions and co-owner of Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week. There is no cost to attend the event, which will be hosted by the Arizona Board of Regents, Lang, Rose and Pacheco

Twice-Yearly Auction in Old Town Scottsdale Draws Global Participation, Strong Bidding Activity Across Multiple Categories

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) – On the heels of a highly successful inaugural Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week, Scottsdale’s vibrant arts scene will again take center stage with the return of the Spring 2025 Larsen Art Auction. Set for 10 a.m. Saturday, April 26 (doors open at 8:30 a.m.) and hosted by the Larsen Gallery, a national leader in the secondary art market for more than 30 years, this longstanding event invites collectors and enthusiasts to bid on more than 400 lots across a wide range of categories.

Hosted twice annually at the Larsen Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale, (3705 N Bishop Lane, Scottsdale, AZ), the spring installment of the Larsen Art Auction features paintings, prints, sculptures, drawings, photography and mixed-media pieces. Also available for bidding are ceramics, pottery, porcelain and China.

Among the standout pieces available at this season’s auction are William Morris’s “Suspended Artifact,” a 1995 work featuring five elements and a glass and metal base with estimates between $8,000 and $12,000. Also available are more than 100 ceramic works from two prominent collectors, including works by Beth Cavener, Sunkoo Yuh and David Gilhooly.Also up for auction at this year’s event is Ed Mell’s “Canyon Nocture,” a 2004 18”x24” artist-signed oil on canvas anticipated to go for between $20,000 and $30,000.

Another exceptional find available at the Spring Larsen Art Auction is Scott Kahn’s “Berkshire Nightscape II,” a 2005 oil on linen expected to fetch between $150,000 and $250,000. Acquired from a private collection in Midway, Utah, the piece is signed by the artist and dated in the lower right corner.

Ahead of the auction, the Larsen Gallery will host an Auction Preview Party from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 23 at 3705 N Bishop Lane, Scottsdale. To attend, call 480-941-0900 or email RSVP@Larsengallery.com. Complimentary valet parking will be available. 

“The Larsen Art Auctions draw wide audiences with registered bidders from most every state and more than 30 different countries,” said Scott Larsen, the owner of the Larsen Gallery. “Whether you’re looking for something specific or just hoping to find something that draws your eye and piques your interest, we have more than 400 lots of fine art with estimates ranging from $300 to greater than $200,000.”

You can view all available lots and register to bid online at LarsenArtAuction.com or in person at the Larsen Gallery. In person, phone, absentee and online bidding are all available.

For more information or to register to bid or view available works of art, visit LarsenArtAuction.com. For more about the Larsen Gallery, visit LarsenGallery.com.

There will also be an in-house photographer capturing highlights from auction day, and those images will be available upon request.

Image Credits:

1)   “Suspended Artifact,” William Morris

2)   “Canyon Nocture,” Ed Mell

3)   “Berkshire Nightscape II,” Scott Kahn

Five Days of Music, Stunt & Bike Shows & Adrenaline-Packed Action Drew Some 75,000 Attendees

Arizona Bike Week’s 28th annual edition drew some 75,000 attendees to WestWorld of Scottsdale last week, proving that neither chilly nights nor occasional rain could slow the momentum of this action-packed fan-favorite event.

Held Wednesday, April 2 through Sunday, April 6 and sponsored by Progressive Insurance and the City of Scottsdale, this year’s installment of Arizona Bike Week including major rock concerts, death-defying stunt shows and a record-breaking number of vendors, with more than 250 turning out to showcase the latest in gear, parts, apparel, jewelry and custom bikes, among other audience favorites.

The event also included ample memorable moments, among them a spectacular theatrical Saturday night performance by Marilyn Manson and Stone Temple Pilots Frontman Jeff Gutt taking a moment during the band’s Thursday set to shake fan hands and interact with the crowd.

The Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale Used Bike Corral proved an especially popular draw this year, while the JARS Cannabis Stunt Arena kept adrenaline pumping with a full lineup of action from Twin Stunts, Brigade FMX and the gravity-defying antics of the team at Amped Electric Games, whichcaptivated crowds by performing jaw-dropping tricks atop electric unicycles.

Also making waves this year was the event’s first-ever Vicla Motorcycle Show, which welcomed more than 120 custom bikes to the largest bike show event of the week. Another fan favorite, flat track racing, made a triumphant return to Arizona Bike Week 2025 after a multi-year hiatus, with racers leaving guests on the edge of their seats as they tore around the 1/8-mile track in a high-speed race to the finish line.

Arizona Bike Week 2025 also honored Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys as the recipient of its Industry Tribute Award, and the law firm also hosted an impressive Builder Showcase featuring twelve one-of-a-kind custom motorcycles, created by eight master builders.

“The weather might have been a bit colder than typical for this time of year, but that didn’t keep the community from coming out and supporting one of the state’s biggest and best springtime events,” said Lisa Cyr, who produces Arizona Bike Week alongside Kristina Anderson. “We had more vendors than ever, multiple exciting new elements and incredible energy from start to finish, making us excited and ready to build on this momentum for next year’s festivities.”

For more about Arizona Bike Week, visit AZBikeWeek.com.

Structures come and go, outliving their usefulness and eventually emptying out their occupants and activities that once made them alive and special. This is a part of life, and an unavoidable one at that. But it is what happens to those structures afterward that can turn a rotting corpse of concrete and drywall into something special yet again…a rebirth.

That is just the case an old school in Scottsdale, whose new owners are showing the potential beauty in reimagination.

The Tonalea Elementary School had a rich history dating back to 1958. Established during a period of rapid post-World War II growth in the area and named after the Navajo word for “Red Lake”, it was among several schools opened to accommodate the increasing population. In 2014, the Scottsdale Unified School District consolidated Tonalea Elementary with a nearby middle school to form Tonalea K-8 School.

Since then it has been empty, simply sitting there waiting for nature to retake it. But in a city like Scottsdale, that will never be the case for too long…and its new purpose has been set into motion. Where it once served the young pioneers of Scottsdale’s modernity, it will now again serve our youth in a new and modern way.

According to the Scottsdale Unified School District, it will be turned into “a multi-purpose recreational, athletic and community project.” The site proposal shows eight sand volleyball courts along with a basketball court and soccer field. Additionally, the parking lot along Oak Street will be re-surfaced and re-striped. So not only will local kids get a number of different recreational options, but since a previously used parcel is being used, but it will come at a dramatically less expensive cost than something that was built from scratch.

Too often in this world if we want something new we strip something else bare and rebuild from scratch. Yes, it allows for more control and more options, but it also strips away history bit by bit. In a place like Arizona where modernity is routinely embraced over history, where precious few pieces of our past remain, we need to more often consider what we can reimagine instead of what we can turn into a blank slate. This development is a fantastic step in the right direction.

By Alexander Lomax

Checks and balances are important in life. We need checks and balances in our government, checks and balances in our interpersonal relationships, and checks and balances within the corporate world. Complete overregulation is bad, but a world where corporations have no checks on their power isn’t any better either as the industrial revolution taught us (if you weren’t a titan of industry, that is).

An example of a lack of checks and balances is when a corporation has control over both the government and the people and is willing and able to circumvent the will of both that it is critical to insert those checks and balances by any means necessary in order to restore balance. Thankfully, the Scottsdale City Council and Mayor understands just this.

Recently, to a crowd that was largely in their favor even despite the deep pockets of the opposition, City Council authorized that funds be set aside for a potential legal foray against Axon’s recent actions to attempt to thwart the will of the people and put their foot on the throats of the community.

Why does this matter? And why is this not about jobs like Axon’s messaging points dictate, a talking point that is difficult to criticize if you don’t understand the details of this deal?

We need to talk more about how Axon robbed tens of millions of dollars from Arizona’s schools by initially submitting for an office/manufacturing zoning grade, leading the land to be sold at a lower price than the residential zoning grade that it clearly intended to obtain in the first place. Lower sales price to the Arizona State Land Trust means less funds for our schools.

We need to talk about how Axon decided that it needed to take away your constitutional rights to disagree with its activities. While the debate between overdevelopment and cautious development, NIMBY vs. YIMBY is a reasonable debate to be had, the right to vote your conscience and vote your values shouldn’t be, and Axon was willing to go to the State Capitol and twist arms to take that away from you. 

So what options do we the people have that Axon hasn’t taken away from us? The Scottsdale City Council is going to find out, and I, for one, am glad as hell that they’re willing to be our checks and balances.

Homelessness was a significant local issue in the last election, and even though there is far less of it than most other cities in America, some of the more conservative candidates used it very deftly to their advantage. A centerpiece of that was Scottsdale’s “homeless hotel”, where an old hotel was used to house a couple handfuls of homeless women and children.

Scottsdale’s new iteration of city council has wasted little time in acting on its campaign promises, and the newest case of this is related to the homeless hotel…it is officially no more, as the “homeless hotel” is officially closed for business.

The Independence 47 Hotel in Scottsdale was part of a “bridge housing” program to address local homelessness by providing temporary shelter in hotel rooms. This initiative primarily served seniors over 62 and families with minor children who have recently lost housing within Scottsdale. Notably, individuals experiencing chronic homelessness or those with disabling conditions were not eligible for this program.

Funding for the program came from a $940,000 grant provided by the Arizona Department of Housing. In September 2023, the Scottsdale City Council approved a $499,933 contract with the Independence 47 Hotel to continue offering 10 rooms for this purpose through September 2024.

City officials, including Mayor David Ortega, have defended the program, emphasizing its focus on assisting local residents in need and highlighting the absence of police incidents related to the program. However, concerns were raised about the lack of notification to paying hotel guests regarding the presence of program participants. In response, State Representative Matt Gress proposed legislation requiring hotels to disclose such information to guests. Instead of renewal of the program, the homeless will now be housed in Phoenix instead.

This move won’t make a material change in the lives of any Scottsdalians, but it is indicative of a rightward shift in Scottsdale governance. Voters decided to take their preference for more conservative leadership at the national level and superimposed it to the local level. With that we get a clear indicator of what we can expect until at least 2027: the unwinding of most of anything that the previous iteration of council accomplished and more traditionally conservative leadership.

Gil Gifford. Photo Credit: Scottsdale Rotary Club

For anyone who has followed the news, it’s been a strange and interesting few months to say the least. But in a world filled with uncertainty, it’s important to find individuals who serve as guiding lights, reminding us of the enduring power of positivity and community in a strange world. 

One such individual is Gil Gifford, a nearly 90-year-old Army veteran and Scottsdale resident, whose unwavering commitment to service and joy has made him a beacon of inspiration for all of us, but even more importantly for those of us in the twilight years of our lives.​

Gil’s dedication to uplifting others was recognized when he received the City of Scottsdale’s William P. Schraeder Volunteer Award recently. His mantra, “Happy people live longer,” isn’t just a saying—it’s a lifestyle he embodies daily. Every Tuesday at 10 a.m., Gil leads the Friendship Group at the Granite Reef Senior Center, fostering connections and bringing cheer to fellow seniors. ​

Gil’s approach to life challenges the notion that aging diminishes one’s value. He believes that seniors have a wealth of experiences to share and should remain active contributors to society. His infectious smile and enthusiasm have not only enriched the lives of those around him but also serve as a testament to the impact one person can have on a community.​

Retirees make up an unusually large proportion of the city of Scottsdale, with approximately 26.2% of Scottsdale’s residents are aged 65 and over, significantly higher than the national average of 16.8%. The city’s median age is over 49, far above the national average. Yet the elderly are often left by the wayside of any marketing materials, and rarely does one think of a life at the age of 90 being full of fun, socializing, and contributions to the world around them.

We know that Scottsdale is a city known for its vibrant community and active lifestyle, but youth often comes to the forefront of the city. Gil stands out as a symbol of resilience and purpose. His story is a powerful reminder that, regardless of age, we all have the capacity to bring joy and meaning to the lives of others.​

Photo Credit: paradisevalley.gov

When you think of Paradise Valley, you probably don’t think about its government or municipal functions, and that’s generally a good thing. You’d much rather think about the amazing estates and resorts, or just the incredibly high quality of life in general. And being a limited government town without much reason for a significant government presence, government functions simply aren’t a big part of the lifestyle, they aren’t front of mind.

Brent Skoglund, the former Public Works Director for the Town of Paradise Valley, has been charged with theft after allegedly misappropriating $10,000 of public funds. Skoglund, who served the town for 24 years, is accused of using the funds for personal expenses. ​

The alleged misuse of funds was discovered during a routine audit, prompting an investigation by the Paradise Valley Police Department. Authorities have submitted the theft charge to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.​

Town officials have expressed disappointment over the incident, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and accountability. “We take the stewardship of public funds seriously and will continue to ensure that all employees adhere to the highest ethical standards,” a town spokesperson stated.​

Skoglund’s alleged actions have obviously raised significant concerns among residents about oversight and financial controls within the town’s administration. The Town of Paradise Valley has initiated a review of its financial procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.​ As the case proceeds, Skoglund’s long-standing career with the town is now overshadowed by the allegations, as 24 years of public service goes up in smoke.

Perhaps the most shocking aspect is the paltry amount of the theft/misuse of funds. $10,000 to ruin a 24 year career and potentially take away your freedom. Not even enough to get a used car, an amount that is little more than a few percent of the average annual wage of residents. To think that Skoglund would throw away his career, tarnish his name, and probably significantly worse over such a paltry sum is head-shaking and a sad indictment of where he was at.

Ultimately, while no theft is obviously preferred, as is strong oversight of taxpayer money, this is actually an impressive indicator of Paradise Valley’s financial controls. For a problem to be found after a mere $10,000 was lost, when other cities have been bilked out of millions of dollars, PV should be thankful that there are watchful and intuitive people keeping an eye on the town’s finances.

Photo Credit: TSMC

We have written extensively about Scottsdale and Arizona’s rise as a manufacturing and corporate hub (get up to date here). The high-tax and high-regulation states that have served as those hubs in the past are getting left in the dust, and Arizona has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of this. A new development is another example of this dynamic coming to life.

In a major leap for tech manufacturing here, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has broken ground on its third semiconductor fabrication plant in north Phoenix, near 43rd Avenue and Dove Valley Road. The facility, expected to begin production by the end of the decade, was intended to produce 2-nanometer or more advanced chip technology, technology that is at the very cutting edge of global semiconductor technology. This even further cements Arizona’s role as a hub for high-tech innovation, IF it goes forward as planned…more on that later.

Originally launched in 2020, TSMC’s Phoenix campus has grown rapidly, with three fabs now underway and strong federal support—including $6.6 billion in subsidies from the CHIPS Act. This milestone not only marks a pivotal moment for Arizona’s economy but also for America’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain—bringing critical infrastructure and innovation back home.

This latest development will create approximately 6,000 new jobs, part of a broader investment strategy by TSMC, which includes over $165 billion committed to U.S. projects and over $200 billion in projected economic impact across Arizona over the next decade. The announcement was highlighted by visits from key figures, including U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, both of whom praised the expansion as part of a renewed American manufacturing renaissance.

However, there are a few reasons to be somewhat cautious in this excitement. It is a widely disseminated rumor that TSMC will not in fact be producing the highest tier of chips here in Arizona, and the reason for that is self-preservation. TSMC is based in Taiwan, where they typically hold out production of those best chips to manufacture in their home country. There is a thought that if that production happens in the US, America would have less reason to  defend Taiwan from potential Chinese aggression.

Furthermore, the ever-changing tariff landscape may soon make American manufacturing less en vogue. Breaking ground on a new plant is certainly a fantastic sign and means that the company is more “pot committed”, i.e. it’s probably too late to pull back now, the last few months have shown us that there is nothing guaranteed in global trade.

That said, it’s impossible to think of this as anything other than yet another big win for the state of Arizona. Again and again it is demonstrating that it is one of the best states in the country for bringing in new business and high-paying jobs. Regardless of uncertainties in global trade, Arizona is unquestionably on the rise.

Photo Credit: Kevin Lamarque, Reuters

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has had a metaphorical target on her head from Republicans since nearly the precise minute she assumed the office. A few Republicans have lined up for the privilege of taking her on in the 2026 general election, but the path will not be easily cleared for any candidate in the Republican primary.

At the time of writing there are only two “serious” candidates running: Congressman Andy Biggs and 2022 candidate Karrin Taylor-Robson. As anyone who follows politics knows, an endorsement from Donald Trump is essentially the most coveted item for any candidate running as a Republican, and Trump had given praise to both candidates in the past.

So the question was…which one would he pick? And recently we got some clarity…he wouldn’t pick either. Or, well…he would pick both.

Donald Trump announced on his social media platform that say that he would give his “COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT TO BOTH” (his caps, not mine).

Who’s the big winner out of this? Well, no one, but Biggs definitely comes out ahead, as Taylor-Robson had gone out of the gates touting an early endorsement heavily from her. She also needs Trump’s support more than Biggs whose conservative bonafides are well established. A poll from the anti-tax group Club for Growth implies as such, with Biggs polling at a dominant 46% compared to Taylor-Robson’s 15%. 

Taylor-Robson attempted to take a more classical Republican, relatively moderate and non-MAGA direction in her 2022 campaign, only to lose to Kari Lake in the Republican primary. She clearly learned her lesson – you can’t win the general election without winning a primary, and you won’t win a Republican primary without being embraced by Donald Trump. Biggs took the wind out of her sails with this joint endorsement.

However, who primary voters choose often isn’t in line with the desires of the larger electorate. Republicans chose the bombastic and polarizing Lake only for general election voters to reject her. In a year that looks as though it may be good for Democrats, it appears as though we might be heading for a repeat: Republican voters choose the more polarizing, bombastic option in Biggs, only for him to be rejected by general election voters.

Op-Ed from Supervisor Thomas Galvin, Reposted from the Arizona Republic

Arizona has reached a pivotal moment in how we manage our professional sports infrastructure.

Key stakeholders involved in the debate over the Arizona Diamondbacks’ future in downtown Phoenix are scheduled to meet this week to discuss legislation to fund stadium improvements.

Read the full article here

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

Anyone who has ever lived through their teenage years and had any sort of wise guidance from an elder knows the answer to the above question. When you are being pushed around and you want it to stop, do you say “Thank you sir, may I have another”? No, of course not, you stand up to them and take a swing back.

That bully is, of course, Axon. It wanted its egregious nearly 1,900 apartment megacomplex so badly that first it pushed around the city of Scottsdale, and when it showed some backbone and after citizens banded together to stop it via public referendum, it took its bullying to the state legislature to attempt to take away your right to public referendum (read our updates **here**).

It would seem as though a good portion of the Arizona legislature never learned the lesson of how to stand up to a bully, or perhaps were too busy being wined and dined by them and largely avoided their ire by capitulation. They weren’t directly in the crosshairs like Scottsdale.

But Scottsdale isn’t going to back down; even after the legislature decided that it was ok to strip away your right to a public vote, our city council is standing up for us. Now it will be using the legal process to consider options and is putting its money where its mouth is with legal exploration. And not just any legal exploration, but they are set to hire a bad-ass attorney, Dom Draye; Dom won’t simply be standing up for the city’s rights but for the rights of every person in our city and every other city that wishes to preserve their constitutional rights to challenge their government.

The rezoning process that set the stage for Axon’s push for their apartment megacomplex singlehandedly robbed Arizona’s schools of tens of millions of dollars, which was bad enough as it was. But its conduct afterward was somehow worse and set the stage for something even more nefarious.

Had our city council simply caved, what would it have done? It would have shown that Scottsdale is the city where developers can simply push the city around to get whatever it wants. It would have been open season for the largest, most inappropriate, traffic gridlock-inducing megacomplexes around, and due to Axon’s actions at the state capitol, there would be nothing that you could do about it.

In short, it would have been open season for bully developers.

It should never have gotten this far. But thank you to our city council for showing how it should be done, and to send a message that it should never be open season for developers to use these sorts of tactics to get their way. Do it the right way or don’t do it at all.

Scottsdale elected a city council that isn’t afraid to punch a bully back, and for that we’re grateful.

By Alexander Lomax

Greg Caton. Photo Credit: City of Scottsdale

Having “interim” or “working” before the job title of many of your employees is never a great sign, at least in the long run. It implies too much change and not enough certainty and experience. This was precisely where the city of Scottsdale had found itself recently, typifying a few month period of relative tumult.

The city took a major step towards long-term certainty however, taking the “interim” off of a number of significant city roles and codifying them as official employees.

The most important salaried role in the city, City Manager, did so several weeks ago by naming city employee Greg Caton as the official Scottsdale City Manager. Last week, Caton did the same by officially appointing Jeff Walther as assistant city manager and Joe LeDuc as police chief.

Caton came here from Colorado, and while he holds two decades of municipal experience is relatively new to the city. That said, all accounts seem to say that he has done good work while here, yet the vote to confirm him, like so many others in this iteration of council, was a contentious one. The two liberal members of council, Solange Whitehead and Maryann McAllen, voted against him, with Mayor Lisa Borowsky expressing regrets about a lack of a national search with her Yes vote.

Jeff Walther has taken a more unusual pathway to his current role. He is a longtime employee of the Scottsdale Police Department, having started back in 1994 and having moved up to the role of Police Chief in 2020. He will now be serving in a more holistic role of helping manage all of the operations of the city. 

LeDuc’s path is a bit more conventional. He started with the Scottsdale Police Department all the way back in 1991. He has served as a property crimes detective and homicide detective, worked with a federal Drug Enforcement Administration task force and supervised the special victims unit. He rose through the ranks in a more traditional sense, becoming a sergeant, lieutenant and commander.

With that, Scottsdale now has certainty as to its leadership. While there is nothing in particular to complain about with these picks, it is worth noting Mayor Borowsky’s complaints about a lack of a national search for talent. It does seem as though the city went with the path of least resistance (and cost) with these choices. Will it work out? Probably. But the Mayor is not wrong on this one.

Cam Skattebo. Image Credit: Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images

Last weekend the NFL Draft was held; it’s like Christmas morning for NFL general managers and football fans, but for college players it’s a truly transformative moment. It’s when their lifelong dreams are fulfilled and their lives are changed.

One of the players for whom this is true is Cam Skattebo, the star Arizona State running back who tore up college football last year with a breakout campaign and then captivated the country with an incredible performance in their playoff game against heavily-favored Texas, a game that was truly one for the ages. He now has some clarity regarding his future, and…it’s a mixed bag.

Skattebo was selected near the top of the 4th round as the 105th selection by the New York Giants on Saturday. He was generally considered to be a 3rd round pick, so his selection was slightly less impressive than what could have been hoped for, but there are significant reasons for hope.

The Giants were a poor team last year, with a paltry 3-14 record and having to rebuild after getting rid of disappointing quarterback Daniel Jones. As part of the rebuild the Giants had the #3 overall pick, with which they picked blue-chip edge rusher Abdul Carter from Penn State. But perhaps more importantly, Skattebo will be paired with all new quarterbacks; the Giants picked up Russell Wilson, who is certainly past his prime but will bring a strong veteran presence and experience to the locker room.

What may make for an even more interesting dynamic and reason for hope? The Giants also drafted what they think will be their quarterback of the future, using the 25th overall pick to choose Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss. Dart had been moving up draft boards in the weeks leading up to the draft, and the Giants hope that they now have a strong QB and RB foundation for years to come.

It is worth noting that no other Sun Devils have been selected in the draft, which underscores just how good of a job coach Kenny Dillingham did in pulling this team as far as he did.

While it would have been ideal for Skattebo to be chosen earlier, he has what poker players would call “a chip and a chair”. He’s got his chance, and from here anything can happen, from being cut before his rookie season even starts all the way to the Hall of Fame. We will certainly be watching him closely and cheering him on.

For Gen Z, the most popular career that they would most like to pursue is an influencer. After all, why wouldn’t they? To make good money without having to do hard work is everyone’s dream, and add in a lot of attention and praise? Seems perfect. But the pursuit in doing so can push people to do stupid things. After all, you need to stick out to get attention these days.

While not the protagonist of this story, one particular influencer demonstrates that there can be real consequences when you try to be too edgy in order to get engagement. Content creator Johnny Somali is well known for being a professional pest and violating social norms in different countries in order to earn a few bucks. He has since found out that South Korea doesn’t play around when it comes to violating social norms, and he is now facing over a decade in prison there.

That brings us to the topic of our story, Scottsdale resident Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov. He is a YouTuber who wanted what could be seen as one of the holy grails of content: heading to North Sentinel Island, a famously remote island with residents who are completely cut off from the outside world by design.

The residents are so cut off that they have traditionally found any visitors as threats and have routinely killed them with bows and arrows. The result is that the Indian government has made venturing within three miles of the island illegal in an attempt to allow them to live undisturbed.

However, apparently the appeal was too strong for Mr. Polyakov, who visited the island and will now pay the price; he was arrested and now faces up to five years in prison as a result. And frankly, this sentence would be light compared to the consequences that other visitors have found: death.

While Scottsdale has its fair share of people who seek attention, one must always exercise some common sense. Travelers should also pay heed to foreign customs and laws, as what may be seen as standard or normal can be something quite different in a foreign land. Also, American jails can be akin to a resort in comparison to jails in developing nations.

This should serve as a good reminder for the rest of us: if we aren’t engaged by content meant to be shocking, the supply of this content would eventually dry up. Don’t encourage this sort of activity by engaging with it.

Photo Credit: TSMC Arizona

There has been much ado about President Trump’s tariff announcement a few weeks back. Putting it charitably, it has been…rocky…but lost in all of the partisan bickering is the reality that there is now an incentive to onshore business operations. Whether or not it’s worth it is a subject for an economics blog, but the reality is that some multinational corporations will be looking to expand or set up operations in the United States now.

Enter easily one of the biggest potential prizes in this potential onshoring: Nvidia. The multi-trillion dollar corporation that makes the absolute best in a certain type of processor, one that is the standard for artificial intelligence.

In what is yet another win for the state of Arizona, Nvidia recently announced that they plan to invest up to $500 billion into the states of Arizona and Texas to develop domestic production capabilities. They intend to build their highest-end chips in conjunction with TSMC in its production plant in the city of Phoenix.

This move is an obvious reaction to President Trump’s tariff announcement. The chaotic unveiling, pausing, and then sector-based tariffs have provided a headache for many Chief Operating Officers who then have to plan out years and billions of dollars in an environment where the President can retract those tariffs at the speed of a social media post. The semiconductor industry is a specific point of uncertainty at the time of writing, as Trump has been teasing specific tariffs for that industry.

It is worth noting that nothing has been done at the time of writing, and words are easy. After all, in the first Trump administration, Apple told President Trump that they would create three manufacturing plants in the United States, something which never came to fruition. Words are easy, while rearranging global supply chains and setting up hyper-technical and complicated processes is much harder. Besides, Nvidia very clearly stated “up to $500 billion”, which allows them plenty of room to wiggle. So while a positive development, it must be taken with a grain of salt.

That said, they’re choosing Arizona, as are so many other large corporations. The lesson is clear: the high tax, high regulation states are losing new jobs to the states that are business-friendly with a good economic climate. Regardless of how much money is actually invested here, it’s a great indicator of what has been built in this state.

Mat Ishbia. Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated

Last season started with so much promise for the Phoenix Suns: the dynamic trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal was the sort of collection of talent that had people speculating about a deep playoff run, and new coach Mike Budenholzer offered the promise of a fresh approach with this talent. But after one season, that promise is already dead.

Budenholzer was recently fired after just one season, a season that saw the Suns finish up with a profoundly disappointing 36-46 record and failing to even make a play-in game in the notoriously expanded playoff structure.

Furthermore, this likely indicates a deeper and harder truth: that the Phoenix Suns are going to have to rebuild. That they are going to need to start from scratch, with aging stars with big contracts, and worse yet, with a notorious shortage of draft picks for this entire decade.

The future is about as bright as a winter in Seattle.

How did they get there? There has been one tying bind for all of the questionable roster and leadership hires, and that’s owner Mat Ishbia. A new poll demonstrates that we are not alone in pointing that finger; most local sports fans have come to the same conclusion.

The Arizona Republic polled 500 local sports fans about their thoughts about all of our teams. ASU football coach Kenny Dillingham received absurdly high praise, with a stunning 96% of respondents approving of his performance. Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo and Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon both received extremely high praise as well.

Respondents were less glowing about ownership of those franchises however, with one particular owner standing out with particularly low ratings: Mat Ishbia. About 66% of readers overall disapproved of Ishbia’s job performance, with 34 percent strongly disapproving.

Getting rid of an underperforming coach is easy, but when you have a bad owner you’re stuck with them generally until they want to sell the team, which is rare if the team is making money. So the Phoenix Suns are in the worst situation imaginable: an aging, expensive, and underperforming roster that they mortgaged their future to get, and an owner who doesn’t seem to know what he’s doing. The forecast for the Suns is a very dark rest of the decade, if not longer.

Alexander Kolodin. Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore

Alex Kolodin is one of the two state representatives in legislative district 3, the district which covers most of Scottsdale. Him and his seatmate Joseph Chaplik have served together since 2022, and Kolodin has made waves in an unequivocally positive way by standing up for the rights of Scottsdalians in Axon’s fight to take away your rights (you can get up to date here).

Kolodin has his next step in his sights though, and now we know just what that is: Kolodin will be running for Arizona Secretary of State next year. He will be looking to unseat current Secretary Adrian Fontes.

It’s an interesting move for someone who has had what can be considered a controversial career, some of which after he was first elected to office. Kolodin cut his teeth as an attorney with a robust rolodex on the Republican side, often a go-to attorney for political issues. He entered statewide prominence in the wake of the 2020 election, when he successfully sued then-County Recorder Fontes after a message Fontes sent out saying that voters could cross out their votes if they wanted.

However a successful lawsuit has since been muddied with participation in election-related conspiracy theories. He submitted the lawsuit to attempt to overturn the 2020 election results, and was the lawyer on file for plans to elect alternate electors. Since then his participation in attempts at changing elections has only deepened, as he supported a bill to switch to the hand counting of several million ballots in Arizona elections, and unsuccessfully sued to attempt to end early voting in Arizona.

Certainly one could say that as an attorney, he was hired to do his job, regardless of what he thinks about the subject. That said, attempts to switch to hand counting, a concept that is ridiculous from a logistics and time perspective and opens up the possibility of human error, both accidental and intentional, seemed to be more an attempt to placate the right wing of the party instead of standing up for reason and best practices. 

Kolodin will have a lot of tough questions to answer, as well he should. If he wants to lead our elections, people deserve to know if he truly believes what he supported, or if he was simply going along to get along.

In what appears as though it will be a year that is good for Democrats, if Republicans want to win this seat they may want to consider someone who doesn’t have as much baggage as Kolodin does on this very subject. Much like the political left’s need to insert race into every issue, election denialism is so very 2020; the more reasonable of us have thankfully left it far, far behind.

Photo Credit: Megan Mendoza, Arizona Republic

Taco Bell: the fast-food joint that while may be considered authentic Mexican food in a state like Nebraska, is much maligned in a state like Arizona, where actual Mexicans live and can make actual Mexican food. Yes, it may be a bit of a joke in our state, but one particular location in Scottsdale has been more than just a Taco Bell.

​In a move that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings of late-night drive-thru aficionados and vintage fast-food architecture enthusiasts alike, Scottsdale’s iconic Taco Bell, store number 31, is set to close its doors after nearly six decades of service. This establishment, one of the oldest in the chain, has been serving up crunchy tacos and bean burritos since the 1960s, all while sporting its original mission-style design—a rare sight in today’s world of cookie-cutter fast-food joints.

This legendary location at the corner of Hayden and McDowell was a throwback to a different era, with only three tables in its unusually small dining room. The signage also resisted the pressures of the modern age, with a throwback look that no doubt is nostalgic for those of us old enough to remember the past Taco Bell. The owner/operators of the location are directing fans to a more modernized location on McDowell.

While it’s undeniably the end of an era, let’s take a moment to put things into perspective. Yes, this Taco Bell has history. But in a city like Scottsdale, where authentic Mexican cuisine is as abundant as sunshine, mourning the loss of a fast-food chain feels a tad melodramatic.

In fact, Taco Bell fandom was often a point of derision for those of us who have lived in the Valley long enough, an indicator that you were probably new here and probably arrived from a place that has precious few options when it came to Mexican food. After all, we all know that Filiberto’s is far superior, right? Although we won’t deny the appeal of crunchy gorditas and whatever else it passes off as Mexican food but which has never actually been consumed in Mexico, real Mexican food is one of the legitimate pleasures of living where we do. 

So, while we bid adieu to the nostalgic Taco Bell, let’s not forget that Scottsdale’s culinary scene is brimming with authentic Mexican restaurants that offer more than just a quick bite—they offer a taste of history and culture. Perhaps it’s time to trade in that fast-food taco for a plate of something truly special.

By Alexander Lomax

Photo Credit: AZ Big Media

It’s not often that you need to pay back a major sum of money to not build a road. However this is exactly where the city of Scottsdale finds itself after a controversial and somewhat head-scratching decision by city council.

​In a recent decision, the Scottsdale City Council voted to cancel the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Dynamite Boulevard in north Scottsdale. This project, initiated by the previous administration, was funded by a $30 million federal grant. With the project’s cancellation, the city is now obligated to repay these funds. ​

The decision to halt the project was influenced by various factors, including community feedback and reassessment of the project’s impact. The council’s choice ostensibly reflects a shift in priorities, aiming to address residents’ concerns and allocate resources more effectively. ​

This move has sparked discussions among Scottsdale residents and officials regarding the financial and infrastructural implications of such decisions, with residents on both sides of the issue coming out in relative force to speak to it. While a robust public debate is no doubt a positive, it is unfortunate that it came to this.

Arguments against the roundabout generally focused on one issue: driveability, and more specifically for certain types of vehicles it would be relatively tight, as well as the difficulty of learning how to drive on a roundabout.

While the concern about trucks with horse trailers is a fairly valid one, the rationale about the difficulty in driving them rings absolutely hollow. It’s not rocket science. Even for an elderly population, it’s difficult to not see any functioning adult pick up on it rather quickly.

In the meantime, $30 million will need to be diverted from other projects to pay back the federal grant. That’s $30 million that could have been used to make the roundabout lanes a bit wider to address concerns, or to create an educational campaign to teach drivers how to use it.

It seems as though this iteration of council has often been more concerned with undoing anything that started with the last iteration, even at a significant cost to the city. Being punitive is one thing, but being punitive at a $30 million price tag is a whole other thing altogether.

It should come as no surprise to you that Scottsdale is a hotspot for golfing; pretty much everyone knows that. But it isn’t just relegated to senior citizens or tourists…it is also a hotspot of local talent. Many also know that Arizona State has long had strong golf teams, and those players very likely get plenty of time on our links, but Scottsdale high schools have also had good golf teams, and there are also local programs for youths who want to excel at the game.

In short…it’s a petri dish for budding golfers. And that atmosphere of growth is shooting roots in one major way.

13-year old Scottsdale resident Isabella Boettcher started playing the game at age 7, and in six short years she has already turned into a force; so much so that she was invited to the world-famous Augusta National golf course in the national Drive, Chip, and Putt invitational for teenagers.

Like many teenage prodigies of the game, she was introduced to it by her father, who has also been her coach. Born in Lansing, Michigan, the family moved out to Scottsdale when she was young and her father soon introduced her to the game. She lists former Sun Devil Phil Mickelson and Nelly Korda as her favorite players, and can boast an all-time best score of 68 in 18 holes, something that even the best of us could likely never say.

Her and her father headed over to Augusta to compete, and Isabella put up a strong showing, finishing fourth place in her age group. Probably not the outcome that she wanted, but an incredibly fantastic result for a national contest and absolutely nothing that she should hang her head about.

Undoubtedly, word will get out in local schools about Isabella’s achievement, showing a whole new generation of potential golfers that excellence is within their grasp. Hopefully it sparks a new local interest, helping build a new army of future Sun Devils who then go on to make runs in Sunday’s final rounds of future major championships. Congrats to Isabella!

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.