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.

Vestar, the leading privately held shopping center owner and operator in the western United States, is strengthening its commitment to sustainability with a series of impactful initiatives across its portfolio in celebration of Earth Day 2025. With innovative programs already in motion, Vestar continues to set new standards for responsible commercial development in the Southwest, promoting environmental stewardship in the communities it serves.

One of Vestar’s standout initiatives for 2025 is a collaboration with the Colorado-based Butterfly Pavilion, whose mission is to create and promote pollinator-friendly habitats and foster community education about their vital role in our ecosystem.In partnership with Vestar-managed Orchard Town Center, the collaboration will foster a pollinator-friendly environment at the outdoor retail and lifestyle center while implementing new community education programs about the importance of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and other species.

Starting in June, visitors and locals alike can walk through the new pollinator walking trails and experience the educational garden beds. Additionally, Orchard Town Center is committed to exclusively using native plants in all landscaping programs throughout the property. In return, Orchard Town Center will earn the prestigious Flight & Flora Certification™, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey.Key Components of the Initiative Include:

• Pollinator Walking Trail: Eight pollinator-focused garden beds will be installed along a designated walking trail at Orchard Town Center. Butterfly Pavilion has designed informative signage for each bed, highlighting the importance of pollinators, their habitats, and how the community can engage with the natural world through tools like the iNaturalist app.
• Native Plant Commitment: Orchard Town Center continues its dedication to using native plants in its landscaping efforts. Native plants now make up 50% of the landscaping in the Town Center area, up from 25% in 2024, helping to provide essential nutrition and habitat for pollinators.
• Ongoing Education: Butterfly Pavilion will lead native plant and pollinator training for BrightView, Orchard Town Center’s landscape partner. In addition, educational opportunities will be provided for the community, including engaging programs at The Orchard Town Center Kid’s Club, aimed at teaching future generations about pollinators and conservation.
• Regular Property Surveys: To monitor the success of these efforts, Butterfly Pavilion will conduct bi-annual surveys to track pollinator activity on-site. These surveys will offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of the design and improvements of the pollinator habitat.</li.“We tailor our GreenSTAR practices to meet the needs of each community we serve,” said Miles Sanchez, Chief Operating Officer of Vestar. “In Arizona, for instance, we prioritize water conservation and tackling the Urban Heat Island effect, as demonstrated in the Cool Pavement Project at Desert Ridge Marketplace. In cooler climates, we adapt to the damper conditions by incorporating native plants and enhancing local ecosystems, as seen with the Butterfly Pavilion Project. While each property may present different requirements, our commitment to sustainable development remains steadfast. Ultimately, we strive to create impactful experiences that motivate local communities to take meaningful actions in their daily lives.”As part of Vestar’s GreenSTAR initiative, over 250 events and activations will take place across its 60+ shopping centers throughout the year to promote environmental stewardship. Activities will include recycling and upcycling drives, toy and e-waste drives, e-bikes and ride-share partnerships, green art exhibitions, educational programs for kids, eco-conscious fashion shows, giveaways, and more. These activations bring together our communities to raise awareness about our environment and sustainability.

  However, Vestar’s commitment to the environment extends beyond its local properties. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Vestar’s GreenSTAR program, which was first launched in 2005 during the development of Oro Valley Marketplace in Tucson, AZ. The project’s success later earned its LEED certification in 2007 for excellence in energy and environmental design, setting the standard for the company’s sustainability efforts moving forward. Additionally, Vestar earned an IREM certification through its efforts with Plaza Paseo Real and Rancho San Diego Town Center.

  Today, Vestar has expanded GreenSTAR practices across its portfolio of 60+ properties as well as its ground-up development projects. By collaborating with architects and environmental consultants, Vestar has implemented a variety of best practices, including the use of energy-efficient building materials, solar power, water harvesting systems, white “cool” roofs, artificial turf, LED lighting, on-site recycling and composting facilities, drip system landscaping, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Now at more than 80% of Vestar

  properties, these features help reduce the company’s environmental footprint.

  Vestar’s continued sustainability efforts underscore its leadership in integrating environmental responsibility into both its developments and community engagement. Through its GreenSTAR program and Earth Day activations, Vestar is empowering shoppers, tenants, and local residents to make a positive impact on the planet.

  For more about Vestar, its portfolio, and its ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability in Arizona and beyond, visit Vestar.com.

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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 Ronald Sampson

Photo Credit: Arizona Globe

At this point I probably don’t have to tell you about Axon’s awful mega-apartment complex plans for Scottsdale, the fits that it has pitched when it didn’t get its way, and the attempts to circumvent the will of the people and eliminates your rights as voters along the way (you can get up to date here). Its quixotic battle has made its way to the state legislature, and we are starting to have some clarity.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Axon has been getting its way at the State Capitol so far. Scottsdale voters banded together to get enough signatures to put it to a public vote on the ballot to reject or accept Axon’s plans, but that was too much democracy for Axon, and it felt the need to go to the legislature to retroactively take away that right. An original bill would have taken away this Constitutional right to many cities which was a problem for some legislators.

After the bill was modified in a “strike everything” bill, where the language was curated almost perfectly to specifically to impact Scottsdale while leaving other municipalities unimpacted, it received enough support in the House to pass, and will now head to the Senate for a vote there.

But even amongst disappointment and an egregious gaming of democracy, there were bright spots, specifically the Representatives whose district covers most of Scottsdale

Reps. Joseph Chaplik and Alex Kolodin consistently stood up against this bill from beginning to end. They listened to the will of the voters, and they understood that one of the major statements that Scottsdale voters have made in the last couple elections was that runaway development with no checks and balances (let alone with bullying and denying the will of the voters) was not what Scottsdalians want.

And I’m sure that it wasn’t easy. By nature, Republicans are business-friendly and Democrats are housing-friendly, and this particular issue was at the intersection of both. But this issue was just not that simple: it was about a bad corporate neighbor acting as a bully, about a poorly thought out development, and about using all the leverage you have to spit on the will of the people affected. It was far more than just a cut-and-dry business or housing situation.

We should hope that every single representative at the Capitol will look at every bill individually and examine it on its individual merits instead of what the party leaders say or what your personal biases lead you to, but it’s rare. Reps. Chaplik and Kolodin did just that…they listened to their constituents. While I may not agree with them all of the time, they did what was right in this case, and they earned my respect.

Photo Credit: Tanveer Badal

Regular readers have probably noticed a number of stories from us about Scottsdale ranking at the top of the nation in various ways, which shouldn’t be a surprise to any of us. But a new top ranking should surprise you the least.

Scottsdale was recently ranked the best place to retire by Niche.com, a story that was shared by Travel & Leisure magazine. This again underscores the city’s commitment to providing an exceptional quality of life for its residents, making it a standout destination for retirees seeking both comfort and vibrancy.​

The methodology behind this ranking was comprehensive, focusing on factors crucial to retirees. Key considerations included cost of living, access to healthcare, availability of recreational activities, and overall quality of life. Scottsdale excelled across these metrics, showcasing its balanced appeal to those in their golden years.​ 

As we all know, one of its most compelling attributes is its pleasant climate, our year-round sunshine that encourages an active and outdoor lifestyle. Of course, we also know of the wide array of recreational opportunities, from world-class golf courses to scenic hiking trails. 

Beyond its natural allure, Scottsdale is renowned for its cultural richness and vibrant arts scene. The city hosts numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues, ensuring that retirees have ample opportunities to engage in enriching cultural experiences. Additionally, the culinary landscape is diverse and thriving, offering a gastronomic journey that reflects the city’s dynamic character.​ It can truly cater to nearly any diverse interests and forms of well-being you would want.​

Healthcare is of course a paramount concern for retirees, and Scottsdale addresses this with its top-tier medical facilities and a robust network of healthcare professionals. HonorHealth has been an exemplary standout and has held a decades-long commitment to excellence in this regard. Mayo has also been a high-performing mainstay in our city. This infrastructure provides residents with peace of mind, knowing that top-tier care is readily accessible.

Three of the next top five in this list were in Florida (Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Cape Coral), to no one’s surprise, but the city of Metairie, Louisiana came in at a surprising fourth place.

Yet again, Scottsdale demonstrates that it has something for people in all walks of life and of all ages. We are truly lucky to live in such a world-class city!

By Councilman Adam Kwasman

Dear Neighbor,

I need your help.

Just this week, a radical, pro-Hamas group has targeted my family and me, spewing anti-Semitic hate, and posting a photo of my family on their social media, calling me a Nazi and telling their radical supporters to “make my life hell.”

The outstanding Scottsdale Police Department are investigating the matter, and I have recently completed a security assessment of my home.

This past weekend, a synagogue in Scottsdale was hosting their annual fundraising gala, and they were protested until late into the night by radical pro-Hamas protestors, with patrons terrified to leave the premises. Again, thank you to the Scottsdale Police who protected our community.

Know this,

✓ I will always stand with Scottsdale’s Jewish community.

✓ I will never be intimidated by extremists.

✓ I will always back our police officers who put their lives on the line to keep us safe.

If that puts a target on my back—so be it.

But if you believe Scottsdale needs leaders who won’t cave to hate or threats, then I need your help today.

This isn’t just about me. It’s about the kind of city we want to be.

Will you chip in $25, $50, or even $100 to help me fight back and stand up for Scottsdale’s values?

DONATE NOW

Let’s show them that Scottsdale won’t be bullied.

Your Councilman,

Adam Kwasman

We don’t have to tell you how great of a city Scottsdale is, and how much of a premier destination it is for dining and nightlife. Regardless, it’s always satisfying to see it recognized at a national level, as a bar recently did with a new award.

A recent testament to this is the national recognition of “Tell Your Friends,” a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge on Scottsdale Rd. just south of the 101. This establishment has been honored with the prestigious Bar of the Year Award by the Bar & Restaurant Expo, underscoring Scottsdale’s commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. ​

“Tell Your Friends” is driven by award-winning bartenders Keifer Gilbert and Ashley Cibor and their best-in-class cocktails and a strong food offering by chef Beau McMillan, but as for any self-professed speakeasy, the food and drinks are only a small part of the appeal. The real draw is the 1920s-inspired ambiance, and when that is combined with nightly live jazz performances, it becomes a truly immersive experience that garners accolades. ​

But this recognition is a mere effect of a larger cause: Scottsdale’s dedication to fostering innovative and high-quality establishments. The Bar & Restaurant Expo emphasized that this year’s winners represent the epitome of creativity, dedication, and innovation in the hospitality sector, and that has become part and parcel of the Scottsdale nightlife experience: a constant focus, perhaps an obsession, with pushing the boundaries of greatness. 

This accolade is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of excellence that defines Scottsdale’s hospitality scene. The city’s ability to attract and nurture such distinguished venues speaks volumes about its culture and its appeal to entrepreneurs and patrons seeking top-tier experiences.​

Scottsdale’s status as a city that not only embraces but also sets the standard for excellence in dining and entertainment. We should consider ourselves lucky that such a standard is such a short drive or Uber away; that we live in such an area that people will cross the country to experience. 

Tight-Knit Town Plans Off-Road Ride, Live Music and Raffle in Support of One of Its Own

It’s been said that “If Jimmy Buffet were born in the desert, this is where he’d hang out,” and anyone who’s kicked up their boots at the Cleator Bar & Yacht Club after a long day on the road or the trail likely had the pleasure of meeting Tina Barnhardt, the unofficial “First Lady of Cleator.”

As the heart and soul of the operation, the bartender and bar manager’s warm smile and friendly banter have made many a visitor feel welcome, but now, after a series of significant health issues including a heart attack, it’s time for the community Tina has served so faithfully to step in and return the favor.

The Cleator Bar & Yacht Club, which welcomes visitors from all over the world to experience its special slice of the Old West, now invites friends, locals, loved ones and anyone else whose lives Tina has touched to take part in “Tina’s 9 Lives Run,” a fundraising event set for Saturday, April 26 in and around Cleator, which is north of Black Canyon City off Interstate 17 en route to Crown King and accessible by the Bloody Basin exit.

Funds raised during the event will go toward Tina’s mounting medical expenses, giving her one less thing to worry about while she works to recover and reclaim her spot behind the world’s greatest dive bar in the world’s greatest ghost town.

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with a Turkey Creek off-road ride, with supporters meeting at the intersection of Maggie Mine Road and Old Black Canyon Highway before making their way to Cleator. The party then continues back at the bar, a place packed with character and nostalgia.

While it’s a long way away from any body of water, it more than delivers in terms of atmosphere, with walls covered in dollar bills, Jet Skis parked out back, a wide-open outdoor area made for live music and meet-ups, and quirky, photo-worthy touches adorning every corner.

The Bradshaw Brothers will take the stage ahead of a 3 p.m. raffle, and supporters will enjoy pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, potato salad and chips compliments of Crown Public House in Downtown Phoenix. Attendees can also bring potluck-style snacks, dishes and desserts to share, with parking for trucks and trailers available in the dirt lot located off of Maggie Mine Road.

“Tina’s not your typical bartender – she’s an Arizona original,” said Jason Campbell, part of the group that owns Cleator. “We’ve watched her pour her heart into this place for years, and she’s the first one to take care of us when we could use a little kindness. Now, it’s our turn to do the same.”

Those who are unable to attend the fundraiser, but still wish to support Tina and her recovery may do so through a GoFundMe created to help alleviate the cost of Tina’s medical expenses and other bills that have accumulated while she’s been unable to work behind the bar.

More than just a fundraiser, Tina’s 9 Lives Run will be a full-scale celebration of the woman who has kept spirits high and glasses full for years.

The Cleator Bar & Yacht Club long ago cemented itself more than just a stop on a map, and soon, it’ll serve as the backdrop for something even more meaningful as the community comes together in support of one of its own.

For more about the Cleator Bar & Yacht Club and the upcoming Tina’s 9 Lives Run, follow Cleator Bar & Yacht Club on Facebook or visit CleatorBarandYachtClub.com.

Photo Credit: Old Town Scottsdale Instagram

Most civic structures and public places are relatively bland; after all, designing something truly different takes a different type of person and often a lot more money. It’s much easier to simply stand on the shoulders of those who have already done good work. No need to reinvent the wheel, after all…much easier to slap a couple small changes on it and call it your own.

But a true reinvention of a public space is the sort of thing that makes a city special. The sort of place where people look forward to congregating at, the sort of thing that will make one’s day. And a new park in Scottsdale is exemplifying just that.

Scottsdale Stadium is unveiling their new Day Park; imagine a park at the park, or more specifically, a park in the outfield of the stadium. Imagine taking in a Spring Training game while having a picnic, a picturesque place to snap some Instagram-worthy photos. A concept so beautifully simple that it’s surprising that it hadn’t been done already.

The location alone makes it special, giving visitors a chance to soak in the energy of one of Scottsdale’s best venues while enjoying an entirely new kind of experience.

Part of the criticism of sporting events these days is that they are not always family-friendly, specifically with costs. But with it being Spring Training, this combines affordability with an atmosphere almost tailor-made for kids. An open space where kids can play, couples can enjoy a laid-back afternoon together, and tourists can gather for a break between shopping and sightseeing. In a word…perfect.

Cities are defined by the spaces they create for their communities. Scottsdale has long been a city that blends sophistication with relaxation, offering everything from luxury resorts to stunning desert trails. The addition of Scottsdale Stadium’s Day Park adds another dimension—one that reflects the city’s commitment to making public spaces beautiful, inviting, and uniquely Scottsdale.

This isn’t just another park. It’s an experience, a destination, and a reflection of why Scottsdale continues to stand out as one of the most dynamic cities in the country.

Photo Credit: Ross D. Franklin

Under the administration of former Mayor Dave Ortega, Scottsdale started using a small amount of vacant hotel rooms to house the homeless. More specifically, it worked with the Arizona Department of Housing and used a bit under $1 million in state funds through its “Bridge Program’, designed to be transitional housing for those who needed some help for a temporary amount of time.

The size and scope of the program was very limited in Scottsdale; at most it was designed to help 120 people, and the transitional housing that caused a significant uproar in the city was only for 10 people, but it was still a relatively jarring development in a city like Scottsdale, causing pushbacks and an attempt to outlaw it in the city.

It appears as though legislators will be attempting to find a new way to turn the screws to this controversial program however: radical transparency.

State Representative Matt Gress, the representative covering Paradise Valley and parts of Scottsdale and Phoenix and who attempted to kill the practice last year, is now spearheading these radical transparency efforts. His bill will mandate that hotels that engage in this practice put up clear warning signs in their entrance, but also take a further step and attempt to outlaw the use of public funds for this purpose. And just like that, a controversial practice is met with even greater controversy.

As for the latter part, outlawing the use of public funds for this, then the onus should be on the state to make sure that enough adequate shelter is built. If hotels are used, one has to believe that it’s likely because there isn’t enough overnight shelter that is sufficient for these purposes.

But it’s also worth considering the nature of the homelessness. A young man who is on the streets due to a drug addiction is nothing like a mother and young child escaping an abusive home. They both exist and one can be a significant threat to those around him, but one is not. So if the state is categorizing them separately, and it seems as though they are, that absolutely should come into play.

Is this bill actually designed to keep people safer, or simply be punitive to those on hard times? Insofar as it is doing the former, then good. But lumping everyone into the same boat and knowingly or not dialing up the shame of their circumstances doesn’t help anyone.

Most of the time we all hate it when politics insert themselves into sports; sports are usually our safe space away from the bickering and fights of politics. Talking crap about Dodgers fans or Seahawks fans is much more satisfying than fighting with someone from the other political party for most people. But every once in a while sports intersects with politics and…it’s not that bad.

Enter Jay Feely. Cardinals fans will almost certainly remember him as the former placekicker for the Cardinals. He had a 14 year career but spent 2010-2013 with the Bird Gang and was a fairly good kicker…not particularly memorably great but certainly a reasonably good starter. But soon he may be known for something very different.

Congressman Andy Biggs represents Congressional District 5 in the East Valley, covering much of Gilbert and Mesa as well as elsewhere, but he will be vacating that role for a shot at Arizona Governor (read our coverage here), and Jay Feely is widely expected to take a shot at filling his seat as a fellow Republican.

This isn’t coming as a surprise to insiders, as Feely has been making the rounds in conservative circles and even went to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Donald Trump at one point, and is said to be an occasional golf partner with him as well. Nor is the idea of a former professional athlete running for office a new one. Politically astute observers will no doubt remember Herschel Walker’s ill-fated run for the US Senate recently. History is riddled with former professional athletes who ran for office, and as the chart below shows, they’ve traditionally had an extremely good success rate for most seats.

Will Feely follow that trend? He clearly seems to be on the right path, as being embraced by the political establishment is certain to open considerable fundraising doors, push out potential new entrants, and generally provides a sense of legitimacy. He would come in immediately as a strong competitor and maybe even the purported front-runner, with a significant amount of name ID already baked into the campaign, thus overcoming one of the critical difficulties of being a first-time candidate.

One thing is for certain, however: Congressional District 5 is an extremely safe Republican seat, so anyone who wins that seat is likely to have that seat for as long as they want it, barring bad unforced errors on their part. There is certain to be some strong competition on the GOP side, so the road will not be cleared for Feely if he does run. He’s going to learn immediately how tough politics can sometimes be.

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.