Dear Friends: In last week’s newsletter I described how those of us who are fighting to protect Scottsdale’s special character and high quality have a new enemy, state government! Over the last few years our legislature and governor have passed legislation that, among other outrages, attempts to cancel the Axon apartment referendum, forces so-called “Accessory Dwelling Units” on Scottsdale, forces Scottsdale to … Read More
Culinary Legend Mark Tarbell Brings Star Power to Scottsdale’s Desert Botanical Garden
Is there anything that Scottsdale doesn’t thrive at? We all know about the world class golf courses, clubs, hotels, and nearly everything you want. And in case you figured that dining wasn’t included, a new development in the culinary scene is demonstrating that you can’t sleep on Scottsdale as a culinary destination either. In a major upgrade to the local … Read More
From Scottsdale’s Saguaro High to Big 12 Contention: Devon Dampier’s Championship Journey
Scottsdale is home to champions, especially on the football field. It has had a surprising amount of NFL-level talent that has been birthed in our neck of the woods, and the story of Devon Dampier is yet another example of our city being a massive talent incubator. Devon Dampier’s remarkable journey from Saguaro High School to Utah’s starting quarterback perfectly … Read More
Scottsdale-Based Plexus Worldwide Spreads Hope: Over $100K Raised to Nourish Families in Need
It’s easy to get bogged down in negativity. When it’s too hot to do anything but hunker down in AC, when there are many chaotic events happening globally and nationally, when half of what you see online is bickering, it’s easy to think that the world is devoid of good. But when good shines through, especially if it is sourced … Read More
Guest Editorial: Bad Policy Decisions Prevented!
By Betty Janik In 2021, General Plan 2035 was approved by Scottsdale citizens, the first one in 20 years after previous unsuccessful attempts. This was accomplished with contributions from numerous citizens and visionary council members. The current Council wanted to make significant changes to GP 2035 and classify them as a minor amendment – which would only require four votes … Read More
Shots Fired Yet Again: Barry Graham Strikes the Best Kind of Blow Against Axon
by Alexander Lomax I’ll be honest: I’m not always a fan of Scottsdale Councilman Barry Graham. I’ve been critical of him before and will continue to do so when it’s warranted. But I’m also fair and will give credit where it’s due, and I will always give credit to a good judo move in politics. Judo seems like a pretty … Read More
An AP&G Exclusive: An Interview with Scottsdale Nightlife Icon Gem Ray
Gem Ray is an icon in Scottsdale nightlife; as the founder of Scottsdale Nights, he has become the go-to concierge for nightlife, the person that celebrities go to when they want to have an unparalleled time in our city. Thanks for taking some time out of your day to chat with us Gem! How did you first become involved in … Read More
BREAKING NEWS: Scottsdale Fire Department to give update on wildfire mitigation and community preparedness to City Council
Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon will outline the department’s future wildfire mitigation strategies at the next City Council meeting set for Monday, Aug. 25. The presentation will focus on the potential expanded use of fire retardants, collaboration with state agencies to coordinate response and new volunteer opportunities aimed at bolstering community resilience. Mayor Lisa Borowsky welcomes the presentation as a timely … Read More
Scottsdale Mayor Honors Community Banking With “Local Banking Day” Proclamation
Recognition acknowledges how local banks contribute to Scottsdale’s economic, community growth In a move recognizing the critical role local banks play in strengthening economies and communities, Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borosky issued an official proclamation declaring Aug. 1 “Local Banking Day” in the city. Scottsdale Community Bank is among those celebrating the move that encourages residents, business owners and community organizations to … Read More
Why Scottsdale’s Crime Ring Problem Persists: When Warning After Warning Falls on Deaf Ears
Here we are again. Another Facebook post highlighting arrests of South American theft group members in Scottsdale, and once again, the Arizona Progress & Gazette finds itself in the unfortunate position of saying “it happened again.” We’ve covered this story repeatedly—from our February 2024 piece examining whether organized crime played a role in Scottsdale burglaries to our ongoing coverage of … Read More