PHOENIX – Attorney General Brnovich announced today that the Attorney General’s Office awarded nearly $400,000 in grants to community organizations that provide mental health treatment and services to first responders. The organizations will assist firefighters, emergency medical services, and law enforcement across the state.

Four different grants were awarded to organizations, including the United Phoenix Firefighters (two separate grants), EMPACT Suicide Prevention, and Marana Health Center. Over 2,000 first responders and first responder families are expected to be served statewide over the next year through direct treatment, mental health services, and training.Read More

PHOENIX — Governor Doug Ducey announced today $300,000 in funding from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund has been allocated to organizations across the state that support senior citizens, the homebound and those who are medically fragile. The funding will support organizations that have provided much needed aid to vulnerable populations impacted by COVID-19, by assisting with grocery shopping, meal deliveries, transportation to medical appointments, emergency errands and social interaction during a time of physical distancing.

“Arizona continues to focus on protecting public health, especially for those most at-risk like seniors and those medically vulnerable,” said Governor Ducey. “Volunteer and community organizations across the state are working day and night to provide support for those in their care through additional food deliveries, transportation and other services — and we’re proud to support their efforts. Thank you to everyone who has donated to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund so we can protect at-risk Arizonans, and to everyone who has stepped up to help others.”

Recipients of the funding include:

• Foundation for Senior Living (statewide)

• Benevilla

• Aster Aging

“We are so appreciative of this generous donation,” said Tom Egan, President and CEO of Foundation for Senior Living. “Our team has been working diligently to shift many of our programs to meal and food bag deliveries to seniors and adults with chronic health issues or disabilities. So far, we have seen our expenses increase by 25 percent and we’re anticipating the community will continue to need help throughout the summer. This donation will help offset our expenses and allow us to serve those in need.  We are so grateful to Governor Ducey and the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund!”

“We believe we are strongest when we work together,” says Joanne Thomson, President and CEO of Benevilla. “The support from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund Now will help provide much needed services to the most vulnerable population in our community. Working together we are able to help seniors with grocery shopping, emergency errands and more, we are able to provide support and friendship to caregivers who might feel overwhelmed and alone and continue to support families in our community during this time.”

“The support that Aster Aging has received from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund is truly making the difference for vulnerable older adults in the East Valley,” said Deborah Schaus, CEO of Aster Aging. “Requests for Meals on Wheels and our other basic need services have continued to grow as we strive to keep seniors safe during the pandemic.”

The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund was established by Governor Ducey as part of the Arizona Together Initiative to provide financial support to non-profit organizations serving Arizonans most in need statewide. The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund has collected more than $8.2 million to date. Arizonans can visit ArizonaTogether.org to learn more, donate and find volunteer opportunities.

PHOENIX — Governor Doug Ducey has announced that following a national search, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has selected Arizona for its new U.S. advanced semiconductor factory. The project will create over 1,600 new high-tech jobs and generate thousands of additional jobs in the state for suppliers and other companies within the semiconductor industry. TSMC’s total spending on this project, including capital expenditure, will be approximately $12 billion from 2021 to 2029.

“We’re incredibly proud that one of the world’s leading technology companies has chosen Arizona for this high-tech project, one with national and global significance,” said Governor Ducey. “TSMC could have picked any place in the world to build this advanced manufacturing factory. They chose Arizona for our unbeatable business climate, already thriving tech sector and ready access to an international supply chain. I’d like to thank TSMC Chairman Dr. Mark Liu for his commitment to Arizona. We are honored to be selected for this project and look forward to building a collaborative long-term relationship with TSMC. I’m very grateful to President Donald Trump for his leadership and tireless efforts to bring more manufacturing back to our shores. I’d also like to thank Secretary Ross, his team at the U.S. Department of Commerce including SelectUSA, and the Trump administration for their partnership.”

Arizona has long been a hub for the advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industries. The state’s skilled workforce, strong supply chain, strategic geographic location, commitment to pro-innovation policies and unmatched quality of life have continued to drive rapid industry growth and economic momentum. This new U.S. facility will enable TSMC to provide enhanced service to customers and partners and increase its ability to attract global talent.

The facility will utilize TSMC’s 5-nanometer technology for semiconductor wafer fabrication and have the capacity to produce 20,000 wafers per month. Construction is planned to begin in 2021 with production targeted to start in 2024. The Arizona facility will be the company’s second manufacturing operation in the United States.

Several sites in the City of Phoenix are still being evaluated for the location of the factory. The Arizona Commerce Authority will continue working with TSMC, the U.S. administration, the City of Phoenix and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council to finalize all aspects of the project.

PHOENIX — Governor Doug Ducey today announced that the Stay At Home order in Arizona will be ending on May 15 and replaced by new guidance for the next stage of economic recovery. The new guidance aligns with gating criteria issued by the White House and Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and aims to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 resurgence, protect vulnerable populations, and guide the reopening of businesses with enhanced physical distancing and safety measures in place.

Arizona’s new Executive Order, which takes effect on Saturday, May 16, builds on Arizona’s comprehensive efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health, including: ramping up testing availability and frequency; implementing tracking of key health metrics such as reported symptomatic cases and emergency room usage; standing up surge hospital capacity to be used as needed; expanding statewide contact tracing; bolstering supply chains for personal protective equipment for frontline medical workers and emergency responders; implementing enhanced safety protocols to protect those living and working in high-risk facilities such as nursing homes; and providing public health guidance for businesses and individuals to ensure continued physical distancing.

“Since the start of this pandemic, Arizona has taken a calm and steady approach to protecting health and slowing the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Ducey. “Today, our hospitals have capacity to provide care to those who need it; our businesses are implementing and adapting to new physical distancing measures; and data shows Arizona is headed in the right direction. It is time to move forward with the next steps of Arizona’s economic recovery — while continuing to make health and safety our number one priority. I’m grateful to all Arizonans for their partnership and cooperation during these trying times. By continuing to follow the data and recommendations of public health officials, we can continue to move forward safely and responsibly together.”

Governor Ducey also announced today an accelerated plan to test all staff and residents of long-term care facilities as well as individuals within Arizona’s prisons. As part of this plan, the Arizona Department of Health Services will partner with private-sector labs to expand testing to 147 long-term care facilities and provide antibody tests for correctional officers. Additionally, major league sports can resume limited reopening, without fans, this Saturday, May 16.

The Arizona Department of Health Services also released additional guidance for businesses and customers as more industries resume partial operations. This guidance includes:

• Pools, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation – can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

• Gyms & Fitness Providers, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation – can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

• Spas, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation – can reopen Wednesday, May 13 (GUIDANCE)

While never formally closed, many places of worship opted to temporarily change or suspend services in order to follow physical distancing guidelines. As they resume operations, the Arizona Department of Health Services released GUIDANCE for enhanced physical distancing and safety precautions.

View today’s Executive Order HERE.

View daily Arizona updates HERE.

By Alexander Lomax

Photo Credit: NPR

The Scottsdale City Council voted 5-2 to investigate erecting a memorial for Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder who was assassinated at a Utah college campus earlier this year. And while I understand the impulse to honor someone with deep Arizona roots, something about this moment feels… premature.

Let me be clear: Kirk moved Turning Point USA headquarters to Phoenix in 2019 and lived in Scottsdale with his wife, a Scottsdale native. His tragic death was shocking and senseless. He was undeniably effective at what he did: building a political movement that mobilizing young conservatives across the country. These are facts, and they matter.

But here’s where I get uncomfortable: Scottsdale is the third Phoenix-area city to propose a Kirk memorial, following rejected proposals in Fountain Hills and Phoenix. State Senate President Warren Petersen wants to rename Loop 202 the “Charlie Kirk Memorial Loop 202.” President Trump posthumously awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. A memorial service at State Farm Stadium drew tens of thousands, with Trump calling Kirk an “American martyr.”

This is the treatment we typically reserve for presidents, civil rights leaders, and figures whose impact transcends partisan politics. Charlie Kirk was a talented political commentator and organizer…but he was a political commentator and organizer. His legacy is important to millions of conservatives, absolutely. But does that warrant the rush to immortalize him in concrete and steel across Arizona?

Councilman Adam Kwasman said the memorial would provide “a space for reflection and dialogue” about civic engagement. That’s a noble goal. But I wonder if we’re conflating a tragic death with historical significance. Are we memorializing the person or the moment? Are we honoring achievement or martyrdom?

The speed of this nationwide push, the bridge renamings, the highway dedications, the Presidential Medal of Freedom…it feels less like organic remembrance and more like political consolidation. It’s treating a podcaster like a fallen president, and that precedent makes me uneasy, regardless of political affiliation.

Kirk deserves to be remembered by those who loved and believed in him. But does he warrant permanent civic monuments? That’s the question Scottsdale needs to honestly answer, not just feel.

By Councilmember Jan Dubauskas

We live in an incredibly generous community! Together, we raised $29,602 to upgrade the new Scottsdale Food Bank box truck! With generous donations from Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association, Honor Health, and Blue Zones Project Scottsdale, we will retro-fit our new box truck with a refrigerated box that will allow the Food Bank to collect and distribute even more fresh food!

AZ Family covered the story here: Scottsdale Food Bank

As you may remember, in the spring, I attended the ribbon cutting for the Scottsdale Food Bank’s new, expanded location on McKellips Rd. At the ribbon cutting, I was so impressed with their efficiencies and the high quality of the food, I began volunteering at the Scottsdale Food Bank.
As a volunteer, I have seen first-hand the incredible work our Human Services team provides to verified Scottsdale residents, who are in need. I have worked with these residents and have seen shame and despair transform into wonder and gratitude when we bring so much plentiful, healthy food.
We distribute 90% fresh food – fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, bread – and more. The Food Bank provides an incredible ~150 lbs of food to each person – and serves nearly 500 households each month! Over the course of the last fiscal year, the Scottsdale Food Bank distributed 524,000 pounds of high-quality food. Learn more here.

As the team and I talked, the need for a refrigerated truck came up over and over. We could serve our residents better by going from grocery store to grocery store – instead of going to one grocery store and then back to home base. The concern – a new refrigerated truck costs over $100,000 – a huge sum!

And then the magic happened! Talking with Sasha Weller, President of the Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association, he became intrigued and started considering various idea to figure out how we could do this for a more economical price. Sasha worked with our Fleet department and they realized we could take our brand-new box truck and retro fit a refrigerated box for $27,000!

Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association generously offered to cover half of the cost. I called Honor Health and asked if they’d meet us half-way? They enthusiastically agreed and called Blue Zones Project Scottsdale to join us.

Our incredible donations:
Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association: $13,500
Blue Zones Project Scottsdale: $9,402
Honor Health: $6,750

My sincere thanks and gratitude to our community for coming together to develop a cost-effective solution! Because of you, the Scottsdale Food Bank will be able to deliver even more fresh food to our residents in need.

These are the projects that touch my heart and bring our community together. I am incredibly grateful for these individuals and their desire to serve those among us who are most in need.

Today, George Khalaf issued the following statement announcing his candidacy for the Arizona State House in Legislative District 3.

“As I’ve spoken to Arizonans in my home district and across the state, I’ve found one thing to be clear: We are drawn to optimistic and clear-eyed leaders who can cast a conservative, America-first vision for the future and deliver on it. I’m running to offer that to the North East Valley and to represent the community that I love and am proud to call home. Our North East Valley, whether you live in North Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Carefree, Anthem, Rio Verde or Fountain Hills, has been well represented by Representative Joseph Chaplik and Representative Alex Kolodin. But now we have an open seat in the State House, and I want to ensure that we have strong conservative leadership for the future of our state and for our country.” said Khalaf. 

George Khalaf is well known across the state and parts of the country as a political consultant, education freedom advocate and political data expert. But Khalaf says that he has felt called over the last year to do more than fight political and policy battles as an outside voice. He believes it’s time to put his own name on the line and fight for bold, common sense conservative policies at the Capitol.

“We need to build a pro-family economy, support parenthood, stop woke indoctrination of the next generation, empower parents in their children’s upbringing and education, make our K-12 system work for families, secure our borders, stand for our constitutional freedoms, make Arizona healthy again, and demand free and fair elections with full transparency. And that’s just the start. This is how our state, our district, and Arizona families will go into the future stronger and more free. What defines me first and foremost is my faith and my family. I’m a Christian, a proud husband and father, and an unabashed America-first, pro-family conservative.”

George is proud to be endorsed by these Arizona and North East Valley leaders.

• Lisa Borowsky, Mayor of Scottsdale
• Jan Dubauskas, Scottsdale City Councilwoman
• Amy Carney, SUSD Governing Board Member
• Nancy Barto, Former Arizona State Senator
• Cathi Herrod, President 2006-2024, Center for Arizona Policy
• Seth Leibsohn, Radio Host

“I’m proud to endorse George Khalaf to represent LD3 in the Arizona State House. Scottsdale residents want leaders with conviction who will act in our best interests and enact common sense policies that make our families stronger and our lives more free and more prosperous. I know George to be a man of principle and integrity. He loves the North East Valley, and I am confident he will make us proud at the Capitol.” – Mayor Borowsky

“Listening to my constituents and putting residents first are my priorities; and I only vote for leaders that I trust will do the same. That describes George Khalaf. He is always listening, present, and engaged in our community. He speaks to the issues and values we care about. He is 100% in step with Scottsdale’s values, putting families first, fighting for safe communities, defending our freedoms, and driving economic growth and vitality. I’m proud to endorse George Khalaf for the Arizona State House.” – Councilwoman Dubauskas

“When it comes to the issues of life, religious freedom, parental rights and family values, George Khalaf has been a strong and ready ally and one of the few in Arizona’s professional politics willing to stick his neck out to defend our core values. I was grateful to have his personal and professional support at Center for Arizona Policy for many years and I am proud to endorse him now to carry his values and courage to the Capitol.” – Cathi Herrod

“George is not only a principled conservative, but a great man—a great family man, a great man of generosity with his charitable efforts and volunteerism in our community, a great man in his can-do policy prescriptions.  He will make LD 3 proud in our state legislature and in our community.  I could not be more honored to endorse his candidacy.” – Seth Leibsohn

George Khalaf resides in Scottsdale with his family. Learn more at GeorgeKhalaf.com.

Photo Credit: AZ Family

Sometimes the most beautiful acts of humanity emerge from our darkest moments. In Scottsdale, the Skalina family is discovering this truth as they navigate the unimaginable loss of their 12-year-old son, Dylan.

Halloween night 2024 began like any other for Dylan, a spirited young boy who refused to let Type 1 diabetes keep him from trick-or-treating with friends. Despite not feeling well, he ventured out, determined to celebrate the holiday. But the evening took a devastating turn when Dylan began vomiting uncontrollably and developed a severe headache. A CT scan revealed a massive brain bleed; a ruptured aneurysm likely caused by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder.

Dylan spent his final days in a medically induced coma, surrounded by the love of family and friends who gathered to celebrate his 13th birthday early. On November 3rd, he was pronounced brain dead.

In the midst of overwhelming grief, a remarkable moment of clarity emerged. Dylan’s friend Ella posed a simple question to his mother, Megan: “Are we donating his organs?” Without hesitation, Megan recognized this was exactly what Dylan would have wanted. That single decision will now save approximately 300 lives.

The choice reflects everything Dylan was: a kind, respectful young man shaped by growing up as the only boy among four sisters. His siblings fondly remember teaching him how to treat women with respect, lessons he carried with grace and humor.

As Dylan’s organs give the gift of life to strangers and contribute to medical research, the Skalinas find solace knowing their son continues his legacy of helping others. In their darkest hour, they’ve chosen to illuminate the path for hundreds of families who will receive the ultimate gift: hope for tomorrow.

Dylan’s story reminds us that even in tragedy, love endures…and sometimes, it multiplies beyond measure.

By Ronald Sampson

Zohran Mamdani with AOC. Photo Credit: Politico

Last Tuesday wasn’t just a good night for Democrats; it was a blueprint for what could be coming to Arizona in 2026.

Across the country, Democrats secured decisive victories in Virginia and New Jersey governor’s races, with Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill winning by comfortable margins while campaigning heavily on economic issues and cost of living. In Georgia, Democrats won their first non-federal statewide office since 2006. In North Carolina’s Wake County, Democratic candidates won 25 of 27 races, while Republicans won just one of 22 endorsed candidates. Even New York City elected democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as mayor with over one million votes.

The message was unmistakable: voters are unhappy with the Trump administration, particularly on economic issues, with majorities in multiple states saying they were dissatisfied or angry about the direction of the country. A recent national poll shows Democrats holding a four-point edge on the generic congressional ballot, with 57% of voters saying they’re more motivated to vote than usual.

For Arizona, the implications are significant. Republicans currently control the state legislature with a 17-13 Senate majority and 33-27 House advantage: narrow margins that could flip in a wave election. All 90 legislative seats are up for grabs in 2026, and Democrats are explicitly targeting these chambers as highly competitive.

Governor Katie Hobbs, seeking reelection herself, has been aggressively investing in legislative races. House Minority Leader Oscar De Los Santos stated, “I have every expectation that in 2026 we’re going to mount an even bigger challenge and effort to flip the legislature”.

The conditions mirror what happened nationally on Tuesday. Trump has consistently focused on immigration over economic issues, but cost-of-living concerns proved to be the decisive factor for voters. Arizona families dealing with inflation, housing costs, and the recent SNAP benefits crisis could be primed for similar messaging.

If Democrats can replicate Tuesday’s suburban gains and Latino voter enthusiasm in Arizona, where Democratic candidates won Latino voters by two-to-one margins in Virginia and New Jersey, a “blue wave” that delivers the state legislature isn’t just possible. It’s probable.

The 2026 midterms are still a year away, but last Tuesday may have shown us Arizona’s political future.

Paradise Valley is moving closer to addressing its flooding vulnerabilities with a comprehensive stormwater infrastructure master plan. After recent storms highlighted the town’s susceptibility to flooding, officials have developed a strategic roadmap to prioritize improvements and protect properties across the community.

The Scope of the Problem

Working with the Kimley-Horn engineering firm, the town identified 19 particularly flood-prone areas, categorized by severity: three with nuisance flooding, seven with moderate risk, and nine with severe flooding potential. The issues range from structural and property flooding to the more prevalent problem of roadway flooding, which creates dangerous conditions and restricts emergency access.

Priority Projects and Investments

The plan targets six high-priority severe flood zones with specific solutions: Invergordon and Mockingbird Lane tops the list with new storm drain systems along Invergordon and Maverick Roads ($11.6 million). Mountain View Road would receive a detention basin to reduce runoff at Tatum Boulevard ($6 million), while Upstream Cherokee Wash improvements include replacing low water crossings with box culverts at Crestview, Arroyo, and Desert Jewel Drives ($6 million).

Additional projects address 40th Street and Stanford Drive with enhanced drainage infrastructure and flood control basins ($1 million), Downstream Cherokee Wash crossings ($2 million), and Lincoln Drive culvert capacity upgrades ($1.9 million).

What Happens Next

Town Manager Andrew Ching emphasized that approving the master plan doesn’t commit the council to any specific project; each will be evaluated during future budget discussions. This approach allows for flexibility as funding opportunities emerge and priorities evolve.

A Proven Prevention Strategy

Councilmember Scott Moore highlighted one success story: the town’s 2017 requirement for on-site retention in all new construction and remodels. During recent storms, the town received zero complaints about residential flooding—evidence that proactive measures work.

For Paradise Valley residents, this master plan represents a long-term commitment to infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety, protect property values, and ensure the town’s roadways remain accessible during monsoon season and winter storms.

The conclusion? Well-run cities and towns think ahead and act proactively, and while they have not been completely perfect in this regard, it’s certainly a positive that Paradise Valley is moving forward with ameliorating a significant issue in the town.

Under the leadership of Mayor Lisa Borowsky, the city of Scottsdale has joined the Coalition for Protecting Arizona’s Lifeline, a nonpartisan alliance of municipal leaders committed to advocating for Arizona’s continued access to Colorado River water and the Central Arizona Project, the state’s largest water delivery system.

The Coalition, which includes mayors from across Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties, was formed in response to growing threats to the Colorado River system, including prolonged drought, over-allocation, and regional tensions.

CAP’s 336-mile aqueduct delivers water to more than 80% of Arizonans, making it a vital resource for cities, agriculture, tribal communities, and economic development.

“As mayor of Scottsdale, I am proud to join fellow leaders across Arizona to protect our state’s water lifeline,” Mayor Borowsky said. “Scottsdale’s world-renowned quality of life, thriving economy, and desert heritage all depend on water stewardship. Through this coalition, we are amplifying our voice and our impact to ensure a resilient water future for generations to come.”

Scottsdale has long been recognized for its innovative water conservation programs, including turf removal rebates, reclaimed water systems, and desert-appropriate landscaping.

In 2024 alone, the city’s rebate programs helped save more than 22 million gallons of water. Scottsdale’s municipal parks system has conserved over 3 billion gallons in the past 25 years, demonstrating the city’s leadership in sustainable practices.

The Coalition for Protecting Arizona’s Lifeline aims to:

• Advocate for Arizona’s fair share of Colorado River water in ongoing multi-state negotiations.
• Elevate public awareness of CAP’s role in securing water for millions of residents.
• Promote collaborative, science-based solutions to ensure long-term water resilience.

“By joining forces, we can counter misinformation, share best practices, and champion policies that protect our communities and our future,” Mayor Borowsky added.

For more information on the Coalition and how to support its mission, visit ProtectingArizona’sLifeline.com.

By Alexander Lomax

Scottsdale Unified School District has found itself under intense scrutiny lately, particularly from Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne. But when the latest state test scores arrived, the numbers told a story that’s hard to dispute: SUSD students are thriving academically.

With 62% of students passing English Language Arts assessments and 58% passing math across grades 3-11, SUSD claimed the top spot among all public school districts in Maricopa County with at least 10,000 students. These figures shine even brighter when compared to statewide averages, where only 40% of students passed ELA and a mere 33% passed math.

Yes, the district faces challenges. Budget pressures, potential school closures, and governance debates make headlines. No organization is perfect, and SUSD certainly has areas requiring attention and improvement. But amid the noise of political battles and administrative controversies, one fundamental truth emerges: the district is delivering exceptional educational outcomes for its students.

That’s not a small achievement. When over half a million Arizona students take standardized tests and two-thirds fail math statewide, SUSD’s 58% pass rate represents a remarkable outlier. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; they’re students gaining the skills and knowledge they need for future success.

Superintendent Scott Menzel emphasizes that “academic excellence is our top priority,” with particular focus on increasing math achievement. The results suggest this focus is working.

Critics will always find something to criticize, and healthy scrutiny keeps institutions accountable. But when a district consistently outperforms both county and state averages by such significant margins, it deserves recognition. Scottsdale Unified isn’t claiming perfection; it’s demonstrating sustained excellence where it matters most: in the classroom.

For parents considering educational options and community members evaluating their local schools, these test scores offer concrete evidence that despite external pressures, SUSD remains focused on its core mission of educating students effectively. And instead of being quick to criticize we should consider being thankful for such outperformance.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. Photo Credit: Nvidia.com

Arizona being a hotbed for the tech industry has been a common theme; shoot, we just wrote about it last week. But a recent development shows that we may have been understating how critical our state is becoming with an entire global industry.

When Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang took the stage at the company’s first-ever Washington D.C. conference this week, he delivered news that reverberates far beyond the capital: the company’s Blackwell graphics processing units, its fastest AI chips, are now in full production in Arizona. This marks a watershed moment for our technology sector and economic future.

The significance cannot be overstated. Previously, Nvidia’s fastest GPUs were solely manufactured in Taiwan, making this the first time the company’s flagship processors have been produced on American soil. For Arizona, this represents validation of decades of strategic investment in semiconductor infrastructure and workforce development.

Engineered across America, from silicon fabrication in Arizona and Indiana to assembly in Texas and California, Nvidia Blackwell exemplifies large-scale precision engineering. Arizona isn’t just participating in the AI revolution; it’s manufacturing the engine that powers it. When the world’s most valuable technology company chooses your state for its most advanced production, it sends an unmistakable signal to other tech giants: Arizona is open for business at the highest level.

The economic implications extend beyond manufacturing jobs. As AI becomes central to national security and economic competitiveness, Arizona positions itself as indispensable infrastructure. Tech companies, startups, and research institutions will increasingly look to locate near these critical manufacturing facilities, creating a multiplier effect that could rival Silicon Valley’s historic growth.

Moreover, this announcement arrives as the stakes are high for Nvidia, with U.S. export restrictions having already cost the company billions of dollars in lost sales. By manufacturing domestically, Nvidia strengthens its strategic position while Arizona gains leverage as a critical node in America’s technology supply chain.

For Arizona’s brand, the message is clear: the state that already hosts Intel and TSMC facilities has become America’s semiconductor powerhouse. This isn’t just about one factory or one company…it’s about Arizona defining the future of American technology manufacturing for generations to come.

By Ronald Sampson

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has once again trained his sights on Scottsdale Unified School District, this time criticizing a community flyer for a “Girls in Gear” cycling event that invited girls, nonbinary, and gender-expansive youth to participate. His diagnosis? SUSD is promoting “woke ideology” that’s driving families away and causing declining enrollment.

Let’s be clear: some of Horne’s concerns merit consideration. School boards should focus primarily on academic excellence. Parents legitimately worry when they perceive their children’s education being influenced by ideological agendas of any stripe. And yes, SUSD enrollment has been declining, a troubling trend deserving serious analysis.

But here’s where Horne’s argument unravels. The flyer contained SUSD’s standard disclaimer stating the district “neither endorses nor sponsors the organization or activity represented in this material”. As Superintendent Scott Menzel explained, as a governmental entity, SUSD cannot edit submissions in the community forum it has opened to the public and applies the same review process to all organizations regardless of viewpoint.

This isn’t the first time Horne has targeted SUSD. In June, he threatened to cut federal funding unless the district withdrew certain history textbooks he labeled “leftist”…textbooks he admitted never reading in their entirety. The pattern suggests something beyond genuine educational oversight.

Horne holds a powerful platform. His office should focus on Arizona’s mediocre statewide academic performance: those dismal 40% ELA and 33% math proficiency rates. Instead, he’s issuing press releases about community bike ride flyers and cherry-picking passages from 1,200-page textbooks.

The political calculus is transparent. Cultural wedge issues generate headlines, energize bases, and build political profiles far more effectively than the unglamorous work of improving reading scores. Horne may have legitimate concerns about maintaining academic focus, but his approach of public accusations, federal funding threats, and headline-grabbing press conferences, feels less like educational leadership and more like opportunistic political theater targeting one of Arizona’s highest-performing districts.

Let’s be honest: in Scottsdale, complaining about the roads is practically a civic pastime. Right up there with debating roundabouts and grumbling about cyclists. But here’s a plot twist: Scottsdale just ranked as the fourth-best city in the country to drive in, according to financial website WalletHub. Yes, you read that correctly. Fourth. In the entire nation.

Before you dismiss this as some kind of statistical sorcery, let’s talk about why Scottsdale actually earned this distinction. The city ranked first (as in number one) in traffic and infrastructure among 100 major U.S. cities. That’s not about potholes; that’s about the bigger picture of what makes driving pleasant (or at least tolerable).

So what exactly went into this top ranking? The traffic and infrastructure category includes annual hours spent in congestion, number of days with precipitation, cold weather days, average commute times, alternative-fuel stations per capita, road and bridge quality, roadway miles per 1,000 persons, and Waze driver satisfaction ratings. Suddenly, living in a place where it’s sunny 299 days a year and rarely dips below freezing seems like a pretty sweet driving deal, doesn’t it?

Here’s where Scottsdale really shines: minimal traffic congestion, short commutes, and, let’s give credit where it’s due…300-plus days of dry, beautiful weather that never turns your morning commute into a white-knuckle ice-skating adventure. Those factors matter enormously when you’re behind the wheel daily.

Now, about those roads. Yes, Scottsdale’s Pavement Condition Index came in at 64 out of 100 in May, slightly below the national average of 68. City officials acknowledge this and have responded decisively: last year’s budget included $22.3 million for pavement overlay projects, while this year’s investment jumped to $52.9 million. That’s not just incremental improvement; that’s a historic commitment to fixing what’s broken.

The bottom line? While we all love a good kvetch about road conditions, Scottsdale drivers really do have it pretty good when you consider the complete package of what makes driving enjoyable.

By Scottsdale City Council Solange Whitehead

Last November’s resounding Prop 490 victory was challenged – yet again – by the Goldwater Institute. On Tuesday morning we prevailed in court.

To be clear, voters in every Scottsdale precinct approved both Propositions 490 and 491 this past November. Despite frivolous legal challenges and an egregious misinformation campaign to defeat Prop 490, Scottsdale voters stuck to their guns and voted to invest in our continued prosperity.  The importance of these propositions that fund Scottsdale parks, Preserve wildfire mitigation, and public safety cannot be overstated.  Preserving open space, maintaining world class parks, and retaining local control have been community priorities for generations.

Rather than accept the court’s ruling. the Goldwater Institute is appealing the decision and thereby wasting more of our resident’s tax dollars in an effort to overturn our votes.  Their actions appear to go against everything that the institute namesake, Senator Barry Goldwater, cherished.  According to his grandchildren and as evident in his writing and photography, Senator Goldwater was an environmentalist that appreciated and wanted to protect Arizona’s wild places.

Photo Credit: TSMC Arizona

It’s been a big few years for Arizona, and more specifically the tech sector. They have been able to land a number of massive new developments and headquarters, but a more recent news story has us wondering something which would have sounded absurd only 5 years ago…is Phoenix becoming a capital city for Artificial Intelligence?

Phoenix’s transformation into a global semiconductor powerhouse accelerated dramatically this week when Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company announced plans to secure additional Arizona land to create an “independent gigafab cluster.” TSMC CEO C.C. Wei revealed that strong AI-related demand is driving the company to speed up its Arizona expansion and roll out advanced process technologies sooner, with the new land acquisition supporting its staggering $165 billion vision for the Valley.

The announcement marks a pivotal moment in Phoenix’s emergence as America’s AI epicenter. TSMC is accelerating its development timeline by two to three years, preparing to upgrade technologies faster to 2-nanometer chips and more advanced processes given robust demand from U.S.-based AI customers. This isn’t just incremental growth: it’s a complete recalibration of what Phoenix represents in the global technology landscape.

What makes this expansion particularly significant is the ecosystem it’s creating. TSMC’s Arizona plan aims to turn the site into a self-contained semiconductor manufacturing facility capable of producing 100,000 12-inch wafers monthly, complete with on-site packaging, testing, nearby supply chain partners, and a talent pipeline. The company has already expanded its Arizona internship program from 130 to 200 slots, investing in the next generation of semiconductor professionals.

For Arizona, the implications extend far beyond chip manufacturing. Mixed-use developments like NorthPark and Halo Vista are sprouting around TSMC’s north Phoenix campus, creating what local observers describe as “a city within a city.” The Arizona Commerce Authority reports 200 new residents arriving daily, transforming the North Valley into an international hub attracting talent from across the globe.

Phoenix’s ascent as the AI capital reflects a broader strategic imperative: national security through domestic chip production. As U.S.-China trade tensions escalate and AI demand explodes, Arizona represents America’s answer to semiconductor dependence: a desert transformed into what one executive called “serious silicon real estate.” With TSMC’s latest commitment, Phoenix isn’t just participating in America’s AI revolution; it’s leading it.

Arizona’s 1st Congressional District race was bound to be an interesting one; it always is. But a recent addition to the race makes it even more compelling with potentially even more interesting new entrants to come.

The race took a dramatic turn this week when Arizona GOP Chair Gina Swoboda announced her candidacy with a coveted endorsement from President Donald Trump. The race, already fascinating due to Rep. David Schweikert’s decision to vacate the seat, just became one of the most compelling congressional contests in the nation (read our full coverage here).

When Schweikert announced in late September that he would leave Congress to pursue the Arizona governorship, citing frustration with Washington’s dysfunction and a belief that “Arizona is savable” while D.C. is not, political observers knew the floodgates would open for candidates eyeing his competitive seat. The district has become increasingly competitive in recent cycles, with Schweikert narrowly defeating Democratic challenger Amish Shah by just 3.8 percentage points in 2024, a loss that was almost a blowout compared to some of his other recent victories.

Swoboda’s entry changes the calculus entirely. As the first major Republican to officially jump into the race, she comes armed with significant advantages: Trump’s “complete and total endorsement,” name recognition from her role leading the state party, and a platform centered on economic growth, border security, and taxpayer protection. Her campaign emphasizes “commonsense conservative principles”, a message she believes resonates with the district’s affluent, educated voters who want results over rhetoric.

The Trump endorsement cannot be understated. In Republican primaries, the president’s backing typically clears the field or severely hampers competing candidates. While other Republicans have filed statements of interest, including state legislators and local figures, none carry Swoboda’s combination of Trump support and statewide profile. With the Trump endorsement firmly in hand, Swoboda jumps out to an early lead in what promises to be a hard-fought Republican primary, positioning herself as the prohibitive favorite to carry the GOP banner into what will undoubtedly be one of 2026’s most watched congressional races.

Photo Credit: Scottsdale Police Department

Congratulations to 27-year-old Brett Carlin, who has earned this week’s prestigious distinction of being Scottsdale’s Most Embarrassing Export. In a city known for luxury cars and audacious flash, a city of peacocks showing off their feathers, Carlin managed to stand out…but not in the way his Instagram followers might have hoped.

Our hometown hero was indicted this week on two counts of unlawful flight from law enforcement and two counts of reckless driving, which is legal-speak for “being an absolute menace to society while filming it for the ‘gram.” Because apparently, nothing says “influencer lifestyle” quite like baiting cops into high-speed chases and documenting your journey toward a felony conviction.

The highlights of Carlin’s content creation strategy? Driving his motorcycle at over 180 mph on Loop 101 while weaving through traffic, intentionally provoking police pursuits, and, the real chef’s kiss? Waving at officers before tearing off at speeds that would make a fighter jet jealous. It’s performance art, really, if the art form you’re going for is “How to Lose Your License and Freedom Simultaneously.”

Here’s what makes this particularly Scottsdale: We’re a city that prides itself on sophistication, where people meticulously curate their personal brands around wine tastings and gallery openings. And then along comes this guy, whose brand is apparently “chaos tourist with a death wish and a GoPro.”

The Arizona Department of Public Safety received numerous tips from concerned citizens who watched Carlin’s videos and thought, “Hey, maybe someone should stop this guy before he turns another motorist into an unwilling extra in his increasingly terrible content.” DPS listened. They arrested him on October 1st, and he’s now enjoying his fifteen minutes of fame from behind a $20,000 secured bond.

To be fair to Carlin, he did achieve his goal of going viral…just not in the way that typically leads to lucrative sponsorship deals. Unless there’s a brand out there looking for a spokesperson who screams “poor life choices,” he might want to pivot his content strategy.

So here’s to you, Brett. You’ve given Scottsdale something we didn’t ask for: a reminder that influencer culture can occasionally influence people to do spectacularly stupid things. May your next viral moment be your mugshot serving as a cautionary tale.

Stay here for any breaking news.

It is rare that Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs comes to Scottsdale, but it came paired with an even more unusual conversation in our city: the importance of broadband. But it’s an important conversation that was had here, as well as an irony worth acknowledging.

Scottsdale, with its gleaming tech campuses and fiber-optic infrastructure serving residents who take high-speed internet for granted, seems an odd setting for a conversation about digital connectivity gaps. Yet that’s precisely why it matters; these discussions need to happen where decision-makers are, in communities that have already reaped the benefits of robust broadband.

The reality is that while Scottsdale residents stream 4K content and work seamlessly from home offices, nearly a third of Arizona households, close to 800,000, remain underserved or completely unserved when it comes to reliable internet access. This isn’t just a rural inconvenience; it’s a fundamental barrier to economic participation, healthcare access, and educational opportunity in the 21st century.

Arizona’s ambitious broadband expansion, fueled by nearly $1 billion in federal BEAD funding, represents more than infrastructure investment. For communities across tribal lands, where Arizona’s 22 federally recognized nations face disproportionate digital divide challenges, reliable internet means telemedicine visits become possible, students can access online coursework, and economic development opportunities finally reach geographically isolated areas. For residents in places like Bullhead City, where daily internet interruptions made basic email communication frustrating, fiber optic connections transform daily life in ways that urban dwellers rarely consider.

The state’s strategic middle-mile network, with fiber optic conduit running along I-17, I-19, and I-40, demonstrates forward-thinking infrastructure planning. Arizona owns this network (a rarity among states), positioning it to serve an estimated 80% of unserved and underserved households. This backbone, developed through partnerships between ADOT, the Arizona Commerce Authority, and private sector entities, creates the foundation for last-mile connections that will reach individual homes and businesses across rural Arizona.

What makes this particularly significant is the timeline and scope. Within two to three years, this massive broadband push promises generational change for Arizonans regardless of geography. Children in remote areas will access the same educational resources as their suburban peers. Ranchers and tribal entrepreneurs will compete in digital marketplaces. Healthcare providers will reach patients hundreds of miles away through telehealth platforms.

For those of us comfortable in Scottsdale, Tempe, or Phoenix, broadband feels like a utility as basic as electricity or water—something we notice only when it fails. But that privilege blinds us to the economic and social isolation that lack of connectivity creates elsewhere in our state. When state leaders advocate for broadband expansion in communities that already have it, they’re forcing a necessary conversation about equity and opportunity that transcends zip codes.

Arizona’s broadband expansion isn’t just about technology deployment; it’s about ensuring every corner of our state can participate fully in the modern economy. The conversations happening in Scottsdale today will determine whether rural and tribal Arizona gets left behind or brought along into the digital future. That’s a subject that demands attention from everyone who cares about the state’s economic trajectory—even those of us who’ve never experienced what it’s like to wait ten minutes for an email to send.

By Ronald Sampson

Scottsdale City Council has been a bit…contentious recently. With plenty of battles amongst members, it has nearly been asking for cooler heads. And it was with perhaps perfect timing that that request was answered.

Longtime Scottsdalian Raoul Zubia recently announced that he will be running for city council next year. He brings decades of dedicated service to our community, combining professional expertise with a deep personal commitment to preserving what makes Scottsdale special.

As a lifelong resident and Coronado High School graduate, Zubia’s roots in south Scottsdale run deep. His 25-year banking career provided him with the financial acumen and strategic thinking that our city needs, while his retirement has freed him to focus entirely on community service.

Zubia’s resume of civic engagement is impressive. He’s served as Chairman of the Scottsdale Human Services Commission, where he gained firsthand insight into the needs of vulnerable residents. As President of Partners for Paiute Board of Directors, he’s worked to provide funding and resources to those in immediate need. His leadership extends to the Charros Foundation, Coronado Promise Committee, and the Parada Del Sol Committee, where he serves as an announcer for one of Scottsdale’s most cherished traditions.

Most recently, Zubia was appointed Vice Chair of the Protect and Preserve Scottsdale Task Force, demonstrating the trust current city leaders place in his judgment on critical issues affecting our open spaces and quality of life.

His contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2021, he received Scottsdale Leadership’s prestigious Hodges Alumni Achievement Award, and in 2024, he was inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame—recognition of his lasting impact on our community.

You’ll have numerous options next year when it comes to who to elect (or re-elect) to city council. One thing is clear about Raoul Zubia though; he brings passion, integrity, and a proven track record of putting Scottsdale first. We could do much, much worse than having him helping lead our city.

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.