Mr. Smith Goes To Outer Space

Recently, Scottsdale Councilman David Smith lambasted SkySong and its purported voracious appetite for city favor.  But in criticizing process and politic he seemed to ignore purpose and triumph. Once upon a time Scottsdale and McDowell was the heartbeat of the southern city.  There stood Los Arcos Mall.  Then time passed it by.  Scottsdale Fashion Square ascended. Various plans from hockey … Read More

Scottsdale Year-End Report

By Councilman David Smith Dear Friends… Scottsdale’s fiscal year ended June 30, so it seems timely to share a report on some Council decisions over the past few months that will affect you and your city’s livability. Your Council adopted a Balanced Budget for next year…that’s good! Unfortunately, the Budget isn’t sustainable and hasn’t been for several years. That’s because … Read More

Only In America

Flamboyant boxing promoter Don King used this phrase liberally to describe his rise and that of fighters in his sted who found fame and fortune. But it can also be said about Javier Munoz.  Son of a doorman.  Raised in a “scary” housing project in Brooklyn.  Openly gay.  H.I.V. positive.  Cancer survivor.  And now playing founding father Alexander Hamilton on … Read More

New Phoenix Property Tax Increase Passes By 5-4 Vote

Statement by Councilman Sal DiCiccio, who opposed tax increase, says small businesses and seniors will be hit the hardest. The vote was the closest vote in city history and shows fiscal irresponsibility of the tax increase. “This was nothing more than a money grab by Phoenix Politicians who refuse to practice basic fiscal responsibility and accountability.” Phoenix has the highest revenue … Read More

Odds & Ends To The Week

*There’s been a lot of talk (and evidence) of southern Scottsdale, specifically near and along McDowell Road, being the next hot Valley neighborhood. And here’s more evidence: Mark/Taylor Residential’s new apartment community on McDowell is so successful it’s started purchasing adjacent properties for additional parking. And up the street a respected developer is putting in for-sale, contemporary-style condominiums for upwards … Read More

Scottsdale’s Lyin’ Ted Cruz

We didn’t start this opinions courtyard years ago to belabor Bob Littlefield, a former Scottsdale City Councilman and failed Republican candidate for the Arizona State Legislature. But his fodder has just become so rich, or rather so mendacious. His hypocrisy knows no bounds. He was for the Desert Discovery Center before he was against it. He voted for the tallest … Read More

Steve Chucri Endorsed by Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane

Scottsdale (June 29)   Today, Steve Chucri released his endorsement from Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane. “Steve Chucri has served Maricopa County well for the past four years, and I am proud to endorse him for re-election to the Board of Supervisors,” said Mayor Lane. “Steve’s district encompasses Scottsdale and it has been a pleasure to work with him for our shared … Read More

#NoPropTaxPHX

By Sal DiCiccio Why are you paying huge water bills and ever increasing taxes? Government waste.   This week alone Phoenix politicians voted again to give away your money: $10 million contract given to a private company just to let people know about recycling $1.5 million payout to Union Bosses as part of a backroom deal hidden from the public … Read More

My Decision

By Senator Marco Rubio Friend, In politics, admitting you’ve changed your mind is not something most people like to do. But here it goes. I have decided to seek reelection to the United States Senate. I understand my opponents will try to use this decision to score political points against me. Have at it. Because I have never claimed to … Read More