Your Valley

Opinions with Civility

HOT TOPICS

Iganian: The time to act is now

2020 was a harrowing year in America’s rich and complicated history. Our great nation was faced with a novel virus and an old deeply ingrained racial disease aching for healing and remedy. …

Rauch: Paradise Valley, together

The Town of Paradise Valley is updating their General Plan; now is the time to get involved and take part in the process. This exciting initiative will result in a new long-range planning …

Chinasamy: Sharon Cini receives Paradise Valley MLK 2021 Diversity Award

The Town of Paradise Valley will observe and celebrate Martin Luther King Day on Jan. 18, 2021. However, due to the current COVID-19 situation and the safe distancing guidelines, the observance and …

Covington: How telling stories threads the nation’s garment

After accepting the 2020 Diversity Award from the Baha’i Faith Community and the Town of Paradise Valley a year ago, no one imagined that it would be one of our last public events when COVID, …

Adler: Paradise Valley mailbox assault

This time of year we look forward to opening our mail box. We reach in and extract of fistful of holiday greetings, New Years wishes, and pictures and notes from friends and family we only hear …

Wintersteen: Why celebrate MLK Jr. Day now?

For 23 years, the Town of Paradise Valley has had a tradition of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr with an in-person celebration and luncheon, and this year, while dramatically different in some …

Independent Newsmedia continues collaborative commenting platform at yourvalley.net

The idea of maintaining civil discourse when debating public issues of the day is more than lip-service at Independent Newsmedia. At Yourvalley.net, which is powered by the work of local …

Buttrick: Is the Arizona Constitution to be taken seriously or for granted?

As an attorney and retired judge I have always considered the Arizona Constitution to be the highest law of the state, not a set of guidelines. That’s why I am a plaintiff, along with a top …

Trussell: State success in adverse times

I recently had the opportunity to hear from the Richard Stavneak, director of the Joint Legislative Budget Committee followed by revered economist Jim Rounds at the Arizona Tax Research …

Thomasson: Response to Jerry Glauser commentary

Dear Mr. Glauser, Thank you for your Nov. 5, opinion about the Ritz-Carlton residences. First off — welcome to our community. We were founded 60 years ago by residents wanting to …

Cochill: Angered by ‘LGBTQ members ready for change’ article

I was compelled to write in regards to the article you published last week in your paper. As a mother of three with one son that is gay I was really disgusted and angered by the article from …

McCaleb: Stick to Paradise Valley's low density way of life

I have been following the SmokeTree’s special use permit (SUP) application’s process through the Town of Paradise Valley’s Planning Commission with a great deal of interest and …

Shufelt: Giving thanks, even in the midst of pandemic

We all are well aware of how different 2020 has been — a pandemic, a contentious election, social unrest, the hottest summer on record — all of these have frayed everyone’s nerves. …

Pace: Fighting for Paradise Valley quality of life

Thank you for re-electing me and my peers to Town Council so we can continue to fight for the quality of life in Paradise Valley. Last weekend, our town’s police team shut down four …

Moore: My focus as 2021 approaches

Dear voters, One of our fundamental freedoms is our right to vote — and you had your opportunity this past month to exercise this right. All my fellow colleagues on council were …

Andeen: A lot of hard work happening inside Paradise Valley Town Hall

2020 has been quite a year full of surprises. Our resorts and houses of worship have struggled, and neighborhoods have been challenged. The town has not been immune to COVID and my deepest …

Dembow: Support our Paradise Valley resorts!

Many of our residents don’t realize that Paradise Valley does not have a property tax. The reason they miss this is easy, you pay property taxes on your home, but those taxes are Maricopa …

Glauser: Put politics aside, it’s time to celebrate Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley

My wife and I both grew up in Philadelphia and have been married for more than 50 years. We have had the opportunity to live in many places from South Jersey; Sarasota, Florida; Florence, Italy; …

Vallante: A note of gratitude to Arizona small businesses

As the regional administrator for the Pacific Rim for SBA, and as associate administrator for the office of field operations, I’ve had the honor to work closely with small business owners …

Yee: Arizona’s economic future is on the line in this election

For countless Arizona voters, this presidential election is not a referendum on President Trump and his political beliefs — it is a vote to preserve our economic prosperity. Arizona voters …

Greer: Understanding your risks for breast cancer

A mammogram can save a life. The message is heard every October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it applies all year round: your health can’t wait. Regular mammography screenings, …

Don Henninger, executive director of SCOTT

Henninger: Scottsdale voters can follow the road map

A note and some perspective for voters to consider in this year’s Scottsdale elections, and the one likely to come up next November, too.

Brewer: Arizona seniors deserve a future of economic security

Arizona seniors deserve to enjoy a future of economic security and prosperity for many years to come — and it’s imperative that we elect political leaders who have what it takes to build …

McKinney: Stop Arizona police brutality, debate Sen. Tim Scott’s bill

In July, Phoenix police officers opened fire on James Porter Garcia as he sat in his parked car. Witnesses captured the fatal shooting on video. Following Garcia’s death, dozens of …

Kirby: Student achievement excels in classroom setting

While Democrats favor political games over the education of children across the nation, President Trump has unapologetically fought for the well-being of our students to safely return to school. …

Mustacchio: Vaping among my classmates is no longer the exception

As a sophomore high school student athlete I have seen firsthand that people my age who vape are no longer the exception but the majority. I have played sports throughout high school and have …

Barnhart: Mrs. Cieniawski was my favorite teacher

My name is Katie Barnhart and I am writing to provide personal insight into why Julie Cieniawski is the ideal candidate for Scottsdale Unified Schools Governing Board. Mrs. Cieniawski was my …

Kriekard: Kurland is a champion of Scottsdale’s children

I am in my 42nd year of working to improve the lives of young people in our public schools, moving from teaching in the classroom to leading both the Scottsdale and Paradise Valley districts as …

Stander: Why I support Christine Marsh for State Senate

I have lived in Paradise Valley and LD28 for 35 years. We moved to Paradise Valley specifically so our children could attend three great public schools: Cherokee, Cocopah, and Chaparral. …

Wastchak: Not re-electing Kate Brophy McGee will be major loss to LD28

I recall Kate Brophy McGee’s first campaign for the Arizona House in 2010. At that time, I was just getting reacquainted with politics by running to be Precinct Committeeman in what used to …

Opinion: No on Invest in Ed Prop 208

Arizonans have a business decision to make at the ballot this year. Prop 208 seeks to nearly double the top income tax bracket. The question each voter must ask is, can Arizona afford to become a …

Pace: Timeshares and fractional ownership in Paradise Valley?

A potential new trend in Paradise Valley is sellers dividing up single-family homes into fractional ownership or timeshares, possibly for commercial purposes. This past summer, we had a diligent …

Henninger: Can new Scottsdale City Council boldly go where others have not gone before?

“The challenge for the new City Council will be to understand what has happened in the past, what is truly happening in the economy now, and what the real assets and inadequacies of the …

Burgess: What does distance learning mean for employers?

While government officials, academic leaders, and public health authorities are scrutinizing whether it is safe for children to return to campus for “in person” learning, many employers …

Rohde: Dear SUSD leadership, get our kids back in the classroom

Please listen to the SUSD families who made the choice to return to in-person learning. The district required us to chose either in-person or online learning by July 24, and an overwhelming 75% …

Lieberman: Program leveraging ASU’s expertise to help Arizona teachers

One of the surprising things that I’ve learned while serving in the legislature over the last two years is that sometimes the most important actions we can take have nothing to do with a vote …

Lind: Implementation of tenant/landlord assistance programs is critical

Arizona businesses continue to be affected by the economic impact of COVID-19. Particularly hard-hit are those individuals whose business is the ownership and management of rental homes throughout …

McClelland: When it comes to mental health, race matters

As a Black man who has worked in the community behavioral health industry for more than 30 years, I’ve seen a lot. I’ve seen the struggles that individuals and family members go …

Peterson Warren: Congratulations to all re-elected Paradise Valley candidates

Congratulations to our newly reelected Paradise Valley mayor and Town Council members, and to our residents for exercising their freedom to vote. We are particularly fortunate to have this …

Thomasson: Town Hall service keeps Paradise Valley informed

Since I became involved in town government three years ago, I’ve been on a mission to increase communications with our residents. Whether it is formal public noticing about land use, a …

Keimach: Neighborhood concerns rise in the E. Mountain View Road neighborhood

There has been considerable concern by neighbors of a new application the town recently received for a “reasonable accommodation” pursuant to Arizona and federal fair housing laws. …

Alarcon: State liquor laws and party houses

Can party houses serve liquor? Our state liquor laws provide an effective mechanism for stopping unlawful large parties or events at residences, including short-term rentals. Selling or …

Bishop: Our bodies are designed to fight off viruses – and they do it every day

Valley residents are continuing to work through the slight declining trend of COVID-19, many are still concerned about the safety of themselves and their families.

Shufelt: 250+ birthdays celebrated each and every month, even in the pandemic

Through the Birthday Dreams program at Arizona Helping Hands, 1,823 children in foster care have had birthdays made special in 2020. More than 250 boys and girls each month have received gifts …

Clancy: Who is on the front line for families facing homelessness?

Temporary grace and an extension of Arizona’s eviction moratorium to Oct. 31 means we have more time to do our literal “home” work, but there’s no free pass or less pressure …

Brewer: West Coast anarchy could happen in Arizona if we don’t stand against it

The insanity we’re seeing in the Pacific Northwest would have free reign to spread to the rest of the country under a prospective Biden administration.

Gulick: My support for Stanton’s re-election

I am proud to support Mark Stanton in his re-election to our Town Council. Having been raised in Paradise Valley, I appreciate his commitment to public safety, responsible growth, fiscal …

Moore: Paradise Valley ‘speakeasy’ party unsurprising after bar closure

On July 24 a home located in Paradise Valley, listed on Airbnb’s short-term rental website, was the focus of a major police event that included our Paradise Valley police shutting down the party, issuing citations to the homeowner for criminal littering, unruly gathering and excessive noise.

Scali: Voting for a change of pace

Leadership and council service matter. Council members set the tone for public behavior and the process of governing our neighborhoods. We raise our children and build our lives around our …

Pace: Party house with 300 people shut down

This past weekend in Paradise Valley on Lost Dutchman Road, 300 people were being shuttled to a home where allegations are that alcohol was being served potentially as a pop-up bar. The PV police …

Kirby: Presidential police support, or lack of

Joe Biden’s reckless support of defunding our Nation’s police is irresponsible and jeopardizes the safety of Americans. Biden does not want to just take away funding, but instead, …

From the mayor: The small things will help Paradise Valley tourism

At the invitation of the Independent, I write to offer some thoughts on tourism during and after the pandemic. We all know that Paradise Valley is an exceptionally beautiful and welcoming place, …

Treon: School leadership, clarity needed as parents weigh classroom options amid COVID-19

These are hard times --- there is no doubt about that. As challenging as the last five months have been, we are facing a high stakes decision point that will impact the lives of thousands in …

Kunasek: Paradise Valley needs Mark Stanton

As a Paradise Valley resident and former Maricopa County Supervisor representing our town for nearly two decades, I’m proud to support my good friend Mark Stanton in his re-election bid to Town …

Graham: Mark Stanton brings balanced leadership to Paradise Valley

Leadership matters. Experience matters. That’s why I’m voting to re-elect Mark Stanton in the upcoming Town Council election. What stands out to me about Mark? He’s consistent, …

Moore: Voting records illuminate candidates’ values

Dear voters, One of our fundamental freedoms is our right to vote — and you will have your opportunity this week through Aug. 4 to exercise this right, as your vote-by-mail ballots continue …

Henninger: A formal declaration of Scottsdale community values

The sounds of silence often can be damaging. That point comes to light after recent events in Scottsdale have presented an image to the national and international media that does not reflect the …

Verma: Taking action to protect America’s nursing home residents against COVID-19

Nursing homes have become ground zero in the coronavirus disease 2019 COVID-19 pandemic, with outbreaks causing high rates of illness and death among vulnerable residents living together in close …

Cadwell: Summer skincare faces sun, heat…and masks

Summer is here and much like you swap out your winter wardrobe for summer attire, the same goes for your skin care. At Vibrant Skin Bar, our aestheticians and medical providers --- we call …

Thomasson: My support for Stanton, Moore in Paradise Valley election

Each one of your Paradise Valley Town Councilmembers is a committed, hard-working professional with a shared passion for preserving our quality of life and low-density residential character. As …

Rogers: The crisis of the pandemic on individuals who have intellectual disabilities

COVID-19 poses extreme obstacles for people who have intellectual disabilities and thrive on routine, familiar activities, and people, such as family and friends. So, with everything going …

Opinion: Past mayors endorse Wainwright for council

In the upcoming election, voters have an opportunity to elect a candidate that represents both a fresh perspective and a proven track record of service to the Town of Paradise Valley. As the …

Lyles: Great job Phoenix for a great need in the city

This month, the Phoenix City Council unanimously approved an incredibly important new affordable housing initiative. With Phoenix being the nation’s fastest growing city, and housing costs …

Dickman: Five reasons Gov. Ducey should issue an Executive Order for short-term rentals

Reason 1 As many of us have heard in the media, the governors of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut have issued Executive Orders forcing anyone from Arizona (and several other states with …

Stanton: Paul Dembow needs to get out of the cheap seats

Paul Dembow is entitled to his own opinions on candidates running for Town Council, but he is not entitled to misrepresent the facts. Politics can be very ugly sometimes, including here in Paradise …

Bien-Willner: Working as a team to protect and advance our quality of life

It has certainly been an eventful past few months for all of us, as our town and people around the world have navigated unprecedented challenges. As your mayor, I have been focused on working …

Dembow: Calling balls and strikes

I’ve been privileged to serve on Town Council for a decade. I’ve served with many great people, and some who exemplified the worst that politics has to offer. After serving with all of …

Dr. Elizabeth Hart-Wells will join the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board.

Opinion: Getting you and your student ready for August

Back to school is only weeks away. While we may not have a detailed roadmap on what that will look like, we do know that there will be some changes, and it’s time to adapt. Adaptation is a …

Andeen: I support Julie Pace for re-election

I heartily endorse Vice Mayor Julie Pace for re-election to the Paradise Valley Town Council. During my tenure on the Town Council, I have witnessed firsthand the long hours, thorough …

Shufelt: Never know when you might need a helping hand

When the work van pulled up in front of Arizona Helping Hands, I recognized the company name. I thought my friend Dale was coming to say hi and tour the Arizona Helping Hands facility where we …

Vallante: Supporting black-owned small businesses, entrepreneurship

With the COVID-19 pandemic and the unrest that has been taking place in some cities, the impact has been felt in every sector of our economy. There has never been a more challenging time for …

Burgess: What do I do if my employee tests positive for COVID-19?

As the number of positive coronavirus tests continue to rise, so do the number of employers who find themselves asking this precise question. Unfortunately, the fluidity of the situation and the …

A message from Paradise Valley Mayor Bien-Willner

On June 17, Gov. Ducey announced that Arizona is seeing a significant increase in COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates, and therefore issued a new Executive Order intended to address this …

Wainwright: Smaller, limited government is worth preserving in Paradise Valley

To protect and preserve limited government is an ambitious goal worth pursuing. In the early 1960s a remarkable group of civic leaders resided in unincorporated areas just outside of the city …

Pace: Supporting community service, humanity and peaceful protests

Recent events remind us all of the importance of humanity and connecting with one another in so many different ways. Whether it is participating in a peaceful protest to advocate for change based …

David Sheppard (Photo courtesy Just Leadership USA)

Sheppard: What Juneteenth means to me as a black man in America

This Friday, we celebrate Juneteenth --- a holiday that receives little attention but holds special significance for me as a black man in America this year. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 …

Rounds: Maricopa County supervisors need to approve project, bring 1,100 jobs to Valley

During difficult economic times like these, nothing is more valuable than a good job. As an economist, I routinely advise community and business leaders on how to recruit and create more of these …

Councilwoman Virginia Korte was the dissenting vote on accepting the Independent Ethics Panel’s “Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law,” which found no ethical violations from a complaint filed against City Councilman Guy Phillips.

Korte: systemic racism exists in America and to deny it is an affront to humanity

Racism has been part of the human experience from the beginning of recorded time; our oldest texts document racially motivated wars and death. To pretend that racism doesn’t exist inside every …

Shufelt: Tragedy befalls an amazing foster family

I met Curtis four years ago. He came to Arizona Helping Hands to receive beds, cribs, clothing, diapers, sports equipment and more to help his family. His daughter’s life had been …

Rhoden: A letter to my kids regarding #BlackLivesMatter

I last wrote a public letter to you six years ago in BKNation. During that time, in 2014, we had just moved to the Phoenix area and I was a recently minted PhD. The world at that time seemed in …

Wainwright: Defunding police departments is not the answer

Defunding or eliminating the police is an idea whose time should never come. In a just and civil society where the free exchange of ideas is permitted and debate is encouraged and not stifled, …

Taylor: The link between a healthy life and school dollars

In this unparalleled time where our emotional and physical well-being are threatened, staying healthy and maintaining a normalcy has become increasingly challenging. It’s imperative more …

Shufelt: Putting our helping hands together for the dads

I’ve had the honor to meet some amazing dads in my work at Arizona Helping Hands. Foster dads don’t have nine months to wrap their heads around the responsibilities of parenting. They …

Moreland: Starting with the end in mind

Author Stephen Covey in his book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” shared the idea that one essential key to success was to “Start with the end in mind.” As the world …

Kriekard: New initiative to increase awareness, respect of Scottsdale's diversity

The recent events surrounding the tragic death of George Floyd and all that is represented by the atrocity provide an opportunity for change. I share in the concern and compassion felt by so many …

Rollins-Chaney: Where does the conversation begin for black businesses?

I have been a business owner for 19 years. My parents were business owners prior to that for 10 years. Growing up I had never heard of their business or any other business referred to as a …

Thomasson: Taking steps to improve public noticing for Paradise Valley residents

Your Town Council is currently studying Planning Commission recommendations to improve public notification for residential lot changes and Special Use Permits. Often referred to as SUPs, these …

Wainwright: Americans must remain optimistic in distressing times

This has been a dark and depressing past few weeks for our country and community. Americans are repeatedly being shown a handcuffed man being suffocated before our eyes, riots which resulted in …

Schaeffer: Tips on how to return to public life while minimizing health risks

We get it. After a couple months of relative seclusion, you’re probably eager to see friends and extended family, enjoy a favorite meal out of the house, and finally get that haircut …

Kasunic: Social-distancing can mask elder abuse

In a year with many distractions and stressful events, we must not forget that World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15. Annually, this day highlights the issues of elder abuse and the 10% of …

Chau: Fair funding, representation hinge on an accurate census count

During this pandemic, we’ve seen our communities step up for one another to help flatten the curve. While we continue to practice social distancing, one of the most impactful civic duties that …

Martin: How to stop the protests

I want to explain how to stop the riots, looting and protests since no one seems to know and no one else is saying it. My son from Nigeria and my Russian/Ukrainian daughter from Ukraine thought it …

Crawford: I stand with the heroes of public safety in Scottsdale

The images are heartbreaking. Less than two weeks after Scottsdale businesses emerged from the darkness of the COVID-19 shutdown, many had to shutter their doors yet again after Saturday …

Ambri: As an unprecedented school year comes to an end, Scottsdale teachers look to new beginnings

Whenever a school year ends, SUSD teachers feel a sense of melancholy. We have to say “good-bye” to our students for the summer, and, in some cases, as they continue to pursue their …

Kush: Scottsdale Entertainment District delivers another black eye to community

Over this past weekend, Scottsdale made the national news in the form of a TMZ show segment showing the celebrity boxer Floyd Mayweather partying at the International Club in Old Town …

Pace: A tribute to the men and women who serve in our armed forces

On Memorial Day, the Town of Paradise Valley was able to participate and honor the military veterans and all those who have served in all branches of service, along with their families, who …

Sacco: Kick-starting Scottsdale tourism’s recovery

Ever since the outbreak of COVID-19 brought the global travel industry to a standstill, Experience Scottsdale has worked diligently to answer an important question: What will travel look like in the …

Verma: Got Medicare? Get a no-cost test for COVID-19

If you have Medicare and want to be tested for coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19, the Trump Administration has good news. Medicare covers tests with no out-of-pocket costs. You can get tested in …

Burgess: Should I require returning employees to wear masks at work?

It depends. Arizona does not currently have an Executive Order or law requiring individuals to wear face masks in public. However, the governor’s Stay Healthy, Return Smarter, Return …

Johnson, Gjersvig: How unemployed Arizonans can navigate health care coverage

The necessity of quality healthcare coverage has become abundantly clear for many Americans over the recent weeks For the one in 10 Americans now unemployed whose health insurance options were …

Baer: Community support shines through pandemic hardship as charitable giving soars

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we live and interact. Although we have been asked to social distance, our perseverance has helped us find new ways to connect with those …

Shufelt: Even COVID-19 won’t slow down Arizona Helping Hands

The coronavirus has shut down or slowed down many businesses throughout the United States, but the essential services provided to children in foster care by Arizona Helping Hands have continued on …

Lamber: Lawsuits expected as Arizona businesses reopen

Now that commerce is resuming across Arizona, business owners are entering into uncharted territory taking a risk that customers and employees will catch COVID-19 at the business. If that happens, …

Julien: Less lawn equals more wildlife

Here in Phoenix our summer months are not known as gardening weather but there’s important work to do in the yard this year --- remove your lawn. You probably already consider this every …

Verma: Thank you to all on the front lines of the pandemic

On behalf of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, I’d like to thank all those who work in nursing facilities --- doctors, nurses, food preparers, housekeepers and others --- for …

Wainwright: Unsightly political placards have no place in Paradise Valley elections

Shortly after qualifying for the 2020 ballot for the Paradise Valley Town Council, I was surprised to receive numerous solicitations from firms that specialize in helping candidates who are running …

Korte: Economic diversification, new approach to tourism message key to Scottsdale recovery

The past few weeks I have spent a lot of time talking about the need to diversify our economic structure in Scottsdale, bringing in different industries and high paying jobs so we don’t have an …

Scali: Clarifications to Paradise Valley hillside code update article

According to the quotes in the Hillside Code article, “Mr. Tonn denied being part of any lawsuit against Mr. Scali, calling his accusations unfortunate and a means to further enhance his …

Brewer: President Trump's immigration pause is patriotic

Whenever anyone questions the wisdom of allowing large-scale illegal immigration, the first thing we invariably hear from the open-borders left is that it will outrage Hispanic-Americans. More often …

Amiri: Supreme Court may vote soon on the plight of 'Dreamers'

While the nation’s focus is rightfully on the COVID-19 crisis, another crisis looming for a large group of young people. Dreamers are living a nightmare as they wait for the federal government …

Allen: Arizona education and the CARES Act

As chair of the Arizona Senate Education Committee, I passionately work toward bettering the education of every child in the state and I fully support Arizona parents and their school choice rights, …

Shufelt: Supporting Arizona's children during Foster Care Awareness Month

Governor Doug Ducey has again issued a proclamation declaring the month of May to be Foster Care Awareness Month. The governor urges “all citizens to do something positive to improve the …

Beckman: A salute to Scottsdale’s educators

It is Teacher Appreciation Week, a week where the nation typically celebrates its teachers with many small gifts and gestures. We thank our educators for their tireless efforts by which they help …

Shaw: Caregivers key to fighting COVID-19

Older adults, with diminished immune systems due to aging and with pre-existing conditions, are much more vulnerable to COVID-19 than the general population. In-home caregivers can help prevent …

Wolfe: Keeping peace at home while everyone is online

Now that most of us are working and learning from home, you may be noticing that some websites may be a bit slow to load, and you may experience intermittent buffering when streaming video. While …

Sacco: Recognizing the spirit of travel during national travel, tourism week

Most years, during the first week of May, hospitality businesses throughout the country unite with one voice to celebrate the tourism industry’s accomplishments and contributions to the …

Smith: Hello, I’m running for a spot on Scottsdale’s school board

My name is Rose Smith. I’m running for a seat on the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board in the general election on Nov. 3, 2020, and I’m asking for your support. Two …

Blocher-Rubin: Potential adverse impact of unemployment claims on self-insured nonprofits

During these uncertain times, the economic impact of coronavirus-driven cancelations, postponements and shutdowns continues mounting. This is especially daunting for many nonprofit organizations …

Brown: APS bill relief? From where it comes matters

Let’s face it. If you are an APS customer, you are likely not pleased with the utility’s last rate hike or that it is now seeking an additional rate hike totaling $184 million. Relief …

McSally: CARES Act a lifeboat for Arizona’s small businesses

Small businesses are the backbone of the Arizona economy and employ over one million Arizonans. These hard-working Arizonans often put everything they have into building their businesses from scratch …

Verma: Getting medical care in your home during the pandemic

At Medicare, we understand you may have concerns about going to your doctor’s office during the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Like so many Americans, our Medicare beneficiaries …

Opinion: If a business can’t survive because of COVID-19, is there a way out?

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has and will be devastating to many Arizona businesses. Leases, product purchases, vendor contracts for service and employment agreements are just some of the …

Docimo: Three telehealth tips connected to COVID-19

As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to mount, many Arizonans may be considering where to go for care if they develop potential symptoms. One important --- yet potentially overlooked --- …

Thomasson: Helping our neighbors in the Town of Paradise Valley

Our current stay-at-home situation has produced some funny moments and many genuinely caring moments. Nowhere was such kindness and concern shown then after last Wednesday’s report of a …

Dembow: Sometimes the only choice you have is a choice in attitude

We are going through something that society has not experienced since 1918. While the scope of loss of human life is horrific and the devastation to the economy is unprecedented we should not lose …

Schnitzer: Tips to help seniors boost their physical, mental health during coronavirus quarantine

There is an ongoing conversation about the worldwide spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how to be prepared. According to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, anyone can get …

Simmer: Rotarians provide ideas on how you can help others during pandemic

Rotarians are “People of Action,” and Rotary clubs and their members throughout Arizona are pitching in to help where needed in their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic …

Graves: Restaurants are open, and essential, and you’re still welcome to drive-thru or pick-up

In light of the most recent updates regarding COVID-19, several cities and states have issued a stay-at-home mandate, and more will continue to do so in the days ahead. So what does that mean for …

Brown: Tips for consumers from price gouging to student loans

By now, we have all heard public health experts declare the need to frequently wash our hands and practice social distancing. While we heed that important advice, we also urge consumers to be on …

Shufelt: Navigating through uncharted waters

These are truly unchartered waters. Families are confined to quarters and avoiding interactions with others. Parents are working from home, children are avoiding play dates. All the stresses that …

Newlon: Remote online notarization a critical need in Arizona

To help keep our communities healthy, the need for social distancing is imperative right now. As such, on March 18, two U.S. senators --- Kevin Cramer and Mark Warner --- introduced a bill known …

Wainwright: When all goes wrong, technology goes right

On March 17, I had the somewhat dubious distinction of chairing Paradise Valley’s first virtual Planning Commission meeting. My fellow Commissioners and I were able to “attend” …

Verma: Medicare and coronavirus, what you need to know

Since older Americans are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus (COVID-19), I wanted to let you know the steps we’re taking to help our Medicare beneficiaries cope with the …

Ambri: During uncertain times, Scottsdale teachers remain committed to high-quality education

This is a time in which everyone is being tested like never before --- and that includes the students and teachers of the Scottsdale Unified School District. The challenges of the current …

Lively: Mayor Lane needs to protect Scottsdale residents now before it’s too late

A message to all #Arizona business owners, city officials and state leadership: This is especially for the leaders of the City of #Scottsdale, a city that has more restaurants and public venues in …

Sacco & Heaton: A message from Scottsdale’s tourism leaders

Unprecedented times. Two words we all seem to use a lot these days. And while the crisis Scottsdale’s tourism industry now faces can be described in no other way, our industry and our …

JBW: Paradise Valley public safety precautions paramount as COVID-19 concerns permeate

I want to share with you directly what the Town of Paradise Valley is doing in response to the novel coronavirus. The town continues to take all appropriate measures to protect public health and …

Rose: Economic troubles ahead as Scottsdale tourism faces harsh realities of COVID-19

The various debates that had been taking place in Scottsdale now seem so trivial. The Desert Discovery Center, Southbridge 2 and the latest civic issue that may be creating anger or acclaim still …

Opinion: Our Puerto Penasco community is running into discouraging troubles

We love living in Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point). It is our home. We are committed to making this already wonderful place an even better destination for visitors, new residents and businesses. The …

Lee: Arizona’s bad funding and good schools

Gov. Doug Ducey makes two critical errors in touting the state’s progress under his watch. The first is what it means to invest in public district schools and the second is what makes a …

Yelin: While the Dems sparred in Nevada, Trump focused on ‘keeping America great’ at Phoenix rally

There are two political teams campaigning furiously around the country right now. The Trump Campaign is celebrating the Great American Comeback. The Democrat presidential candidates are beating …

Kirk: Strength materializes in darkest of times

My plane was shot down on Oct. 28, 1967. I had been chosen to lead the largest bombing raid of the Vietnam War, and as I led my squadron of fighters into a strategic dive, the anti-air fire around …

Colletto: Patient care will suffer if HB2823 becomes law

For decades, the Arizona Department of Health Services has done a good job of making sure ambulance service in Arizona is safe, affordable and available to everyone. HB2823 threatens to upend this …

Hanshew: Errors in ‘The American Dream Act’ article

There are several significant material errors in “The American Dream Act” article. California’s Proposition 13 property tax assessment methodology is held out as the benchmark …

Hamer: Bill throws needed sunshine on a legal process

A bill introduced by state Sen. Vince Leach, SB 1459, throws some needed sunshine on a legal process currently hidden from public view. If the bill passes and is signed into law, Arizona taxpayers …

Garber: Improved communication needed for food recalls

As consumers, we rely on the food safety system when we buy groceries. And, we expect that if one of our purchases has been recalled our grocery store will warn us. However, a new report by the …

Watch for warning signs of teen suicide

Participants in a program called One Gilbert hope to unite the town’s residents behind an ambitious and much-needed goal: eliminating teen suicide. The effort, launched in October 2019 by …

Dr. Katz: A healthy lifestyle will be best defense against coronavirus threat

Coronavirus is on the verge of being the next worldwide pandemic. Thousands of people, mostly in China, have contracted the virus. However, at least two Arizonans are suspected of having the …

Opinion: Neglect of Arizona schools’ capital needs violates constitution

School districts all over Arizona are challenged today by aging schools and inadequate funds to repair or replace them. This is a major problem for our educators and for the children they teach …

Pace: I fight for the quality of life in Paradise Valley

I am proud to currently serve as your vice mayor. I am running for re-election to Town Council because I love Paradise Valley and have a passion for preserving our quality of life. Our town is at …

Elkins: Sleep plays an important role in maintaining a healthy heart

Most of us are aware that proper nutrition, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight play a key role in heart health, but what about sleep? Proper sleep habits are paramount to a healthy heart. …

Shufelt: ‘My bike saved my life’

This is a quote from Noah Ehlert, and the inspiration for his Discover Your Path tour, a cross country bike trip from California to Florida to raise awareness of the issues faced by youth in foster …

Lieberman: Join me in the fight to implement short-term rental reform

Enough is enough. I am now starting my second year down at the legislature, and there is no single issue that has caused more constituents to reach out to me with personal emails and calls then …

Moore: The Town of Paradise Valley is not for sale

Our town has always been a unique residential neighborhood complemented by some of the most beautiful resorts found anywhere. As we move into 2020, our town will continue to need dedicated, …

Arpaio: Eliminating the dangers posed by anonymous shell companies is commonsense

Under current U.S. law, when criminal organizations want to hide their money laundering and financing activities from law enforcement officials, they have the means to do so. The result is the …

JBW: I want you to help me keep the ‘paradise’ in Town of Paradise Valley

As some of you may know, our town was recently named the sixth-best place to live in the country by a national publication. And, for the first time, this year an Arizona municipality --- our …

Graff: Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy will continue, flourish at Taliesin

In 1932, Frank Lloyd Wright created the Taliesin Fellowship, a community of apprentices and their families who lived, worked and studied with Wright first at Taliesin in Wisconsin and later also at …

Dembow: Dual role of councilman still troubling for some in Paradise Valley

It is the duty of any elected official to represent his or her constituents without bias or conflict of interest. Our system of government requires a fundamental trust that our leaders are …

Lynn & Schweiker: We want to set record straight on closing of School of Architecture at Taliesin

We want to set the record straight and offer facts and perspective to the heart-wrenching decision to close the School of Architecture at Taliesin. The decision to close the venerable school and …

Watson: Ducey education plan supports bright horizon for local educators

There are some big changes on the horizon for education in Maricopa County, if Gov. Ducey’s legislative agenda continues to get a good reception from our state lawmakers. Last week Gov. …

Gray: Raising airfare taxes would hurt Phoenix businesses

Sky Harbor International Airport just collected $3.6 million in taxpayer money from the Federal Aviation Administration to upgrade a tarmac, while the Deer Valley Airport cashed in on a $2.7 million …

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