Activists are the lubricant of local democracy. They effect change. They challenge authority. They keep many on their toes. Until they don’t, and infect the body politic. There is no better example today than in Peoria, Arizona. Nearly all activism is protected by the First Amendment. Until someone yells “fire” in a movie theater. And that’s what Vanessa Angell did … Read More
Guest Editorial: We’re Here To Help
By City of Scottsdale Economic Development Department — As a Scottsdale business, we want you to know we are here to help. The City of Scottsdale has launched the Scottsdale Small Business Assistance Center designed to serve as a one-stop shop for Scottsdale businesses looking for information and guidance on available assistance programs during the COVID-19 crisis. We know how cumbersome … Read More
For The People Not Just The Politicians
Most cities have onerous sign codes, none more so than Scottsdale. This is not meant as a criticism. Indeed, Scottsdale’s has contributed to a community aesthetic second to none. Most cities also regulate political road signs. When you can put them up. The size. And so forth. But they are allowed. Every election season these campaign communications litter streets and … Read More
A Nice Trip Down Memory Lane
Feeling like a bit like famed DJ Casey Kasem we received a nice request from Scottsdale City Council candidate Betty Janik to repost this piece. As campaign dialogue begins to deteriorate Betty reminds us that it doesn’t always have to be that way, and hasn’t. Thank you for the productive thoughts Betty. Rise of The Guardians Every community has its … Read More
Impressive
What a difference between nearby jurisdictions. The Town of Paradise Valley’s Mayor is being unopposed on the 2020 ballot. And there is only one challenger to three incumbents seeking re-election to the Town Council. And when it comes to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors two have no challengers at all. The other three have meaningless, other party opposition that … Read More
Guest Editorial: Partisan Political Pillow Talk Extends to the Scottsdale Ballot
By Larry Heath I received an email from Bob Littlefield recently exclaiming that he was officially on the ballot for Mayor of Scottsdale. To me, it felt like the shark from Jaws about to swallow the City. Although that looks strangely entertaining on a movie poster, do we really want Bob and his wife, Kathy Littlefield, to devour 20 percent … Read More
Bueller?
Imprinted on pop culture by a cultish comedic movie, “Bueller?” is a phrase meant to convey waiting for a response when there is none. And that’s how we feel nearly one week after stating in no uncertain terms how deficient Scottsdale leadership has been to aid decimated tourism-related businesses despite having the means to do so. Think about it. Congress, … Read More
Exemplary
Unlike some of its union counterparts, the Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association leads with quiet dignity. It was the first contributor to the successful campaign in November to update and enhance the city’s infrastructure. It annually hosts an impressive charity dinner each September that raises money for important causes and inspires attendees with amazing speakers. Its members are obviously on the … Read More
Rise Of The Guardians 2
Anyone with children likely knows the movie “Rise Of The Guardians.” It’s the tale of our holiday heroes (Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, etc.) banding together to defeat darkness threatening happiness in the world. Awhile back we wrote a piece entitled after the movie mentioned above, discussing the role activists have played over the past many years to shape Scottsdale. It … Read More
Guest Editorial: 25 Companies Who Are Hiring Right Now in Arizona as COVID-19 Takes a Toll on Jobs
By Recker McDowell — We are all seeing the destructive path the COVID-19 pandemic has carved through the economy with record unemployment claims, shutdown businesses, a full stop for tourism as well as scores of layoffs and furloughs. All the business closures are resulting in significant temporary job cuts across Arizona and the country. But there are jobs out in … Read More