Near the end of Americano!, a just completed, box-office record setting original musical at The Phoenix Theatre Company, the hero, Antonio Valdovinos, is told just before the finale that he is the “face of the New America.” The musical was based on the true story of Valdovinos who was inspired by the events of 9/11 to serve in the Marines. … Read More

Scottsdale’s economy has been hit so bad it will be paying attention to all of its dimes, pennies and nickels.  But its Nichols of a different kind, City Treasurer Jeff Nichols, that looms as the most important person in Scottsdale over the next many months. Not the Mayor or mayoral aspirants, not the tone-deaf anti-business candidates and not the City … Read More

Since most Arizona cities depend precariously on sales and tourism tax revenue it’s especially odd that local leaders are lacking innovative approaches to address the economic storm that’s hit, knowing more devastation is to come. After all, to help businesses whenever and wherever it can is government sustenance for the revenue sources that fund critical city services. Rosary beads are … Read More

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

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

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

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

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