7-Year Police Sergeant is North Scottsdale Racer

One of the two Scottsdale cops recently put on administrative leave for street racing while off duty is a sergeant who has been with the Scottsdale Police Department for 7 years. Neither sergeant Matt Lear nor his racing competitor Eric Teeter have received citations yet for their actions.

Former Grateful Dead Member Rocks Scottsdale

Bob Weir's band Ratdog plays The Beatles' classic Tomorrow Never Knows.

The End of a Smoking Era in Scottsdale

The recently-approved statewide smoking ban becomes law tomorrow in bars across Arizona. The ban is unlikely to result in a loss of business to most downtown Scottsdale clubs, but neighborhood bars could take a hit due to the fact that their customers are more interested in relaxing with a beer and a smoke then being seen at Scottsdale's hot club du jour.

Busted in Scottsdale, Jerramy Stevens Going to Tampa Bay

Jerramy Stevens was picked up in this weekend's NFL draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Just last month, Stevens was picked up in Scottsdale for suspected DUI and possession of marijuana. Sounds like Stevens will get along fine in Tampa Bay...as long as he doesn't drop too many more crucial passes in the Super Bowl for the Bucs!

Part-Time Scottsdale Resident Frank Lloyd Wright on Voice of America

Voice of America radio recently produced a wonderful piece on Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright's Scottsdale residence and working studio - Taliesin West - is an amazing example of his vision and brilliance. Click here to download the Frank Lloyd Wright special as an MP3. Here is an excerpt from the show:

"Taliesin West is an example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s ideas of organic architecture taking root in the desert. He believed that architecture should have life and spirit. He said a building should appear to grow naturally and easily from its base into its surroundings. Selecting the best place to put a building became a most important first step in the design process."

Blind Boys of Alabama Coming to Scottsdale

The amazing Blind Boys of Alabama are scheduled to visit Scottsdale during their upcoming tour. The legendary gospel group will perform outside at the Scottsdale Civic Center on May 18. This is sure to be a beautiful evening full of incredible, inspirational music not to be missed!

Scottsdale Teacher Admits to Sexual Contact with Student

Tom Porras, a well-know substitute teacher and coach at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, has admitted to touching a student under the age of 18 in a sexual manner at his home. The student was there for an "athletic massage." This will not likely result in "happy ending" for Mr. Porras.

Neville Brothers Rock Scottsdale

The Neville Brothers performing in Scottsdale on Friday night.

Scottsdale Teacher Accused of Sex Crimes is Terminated

Just as the twisted tale of Tom Porras becomes public, the Scottsdale school district is moving to fire the long-time teacher from his post at Saguaro High School. Porras is alleged to have inappropriately touched a minor while she was visiting the teacher's home. The story continues to unfold, and today it was learned that many students may have visited Porras' house over the years. Security is a huge issue in our schools and Scottsdale's schools are showing some major holes in their security and safety controls for the students. High test scores are wonderful, but only in an environment that is safe and secure for our students.

Scottsdale Solar Tour Sites Announced

Six sites will be the focus of an upcoming tour of solar and renewable energy buildings in Scottsdale. The self-guided tour takes place on Saturday, April 28 at the following Scottsdale locations:

• Edwards residence, 8151 E. Smokehouse Trail

• Feliciano residence 7701 Avalon Drive

• Foster residence, 29457 114th St

• Lo Tempio residence, 30107 N. 173rd Place

• McKay residence, 2647 N. Miller Road

• Scottsdale Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road

For more information visit the Arizona Solar Center

Two Scottsdale Cops Busted for Drag Racing

Two Scottsdale police officers have been put on indefinite paid leave after they were caught drag racing in their personal vehicles in north Scottsdale. One was involved in a minor accident with the sidewalk. Thankfully, no one was injured.

Lighting Up Downtown Year Round

Downtown Scottsdale could be lit up with festive lights year round if a current proposal gets support. The year-round glow and romance of the lights which the City simply cannot resist actually comes pretty cheap and should result in enhanced ambiance and increased enjoyment of the downtown area. That's a good thing.

Scottsdale Performing Arts Store Named Best Downtown Shop

The Center for the Performing Arts' Store has been named as the "Best Downtown Shop" by azcentral. Congrats to The Store!

Saguaro High School Substitute Teacher Arrested on Sex Charges

A well known substitute teacher at Saguaro High School has been arrested in connection with a sexual indecency event involving a minor at the teacher's home. The long-time coach and substitute teacher allegedly lured a young girl to his house in order to give her an "athletic massage." The teacher now faces felony charges.

Video Tour of Cigar King in Scottsdale

Enjoy this video tour inside one of my favorite Scottsdale spots, Cigar King.

Lingerie Bowl Still Without Scottsdale Permit

Scantily clad ladies playing football in the Lingerie Bowl may not become a reality in Scottsdale. The city deemed the application for the pantie pigskin contest as incomplete. The event's organizers will try again in Scottsdale, but they are also considering other Valley venues. I have a sneaking suspicion that no matter how "complete" the forthcoming application is, the city will find a reason to deny the permit, sending the Lingerie Bowl out of Scottsdale.

Scottsdale Art Scene Voted 4th Best

Scottsdale has been voted #4 in best art scenes in America by AmericanStyle magazine. Pittsburgh, Albuquerque and Las Vegas claimed the top 3 spots. Some local arts boosters bemoaned the ranking, claiming Scottsdale should be at the top of the list. Of course, Scottsdale did rank higher than any other Arizona city, with Phoenix falling in at #8.

Union Protests Hit Scottsdale Construction Site

Union protesters were on hand at Doubletree and Scottsdale roads today to show their discontent with Adobe Drywall. Picketers referred to Adobe employees as "rats." They cited several compensation and benefits-related issues as the source of their gripes. Those objections were, of course, flatly denied by the business in question.

The Doors Art Installation Opens May 12 in Scottsdale

From the City's newsletter:

The dedication of "The Doors," Donald Lipski's large kaleidoscope-like sculpture at the corner of Scottsdale and Camelback roads, will be held on Saturday, May 12. Festivities with events for all ages take place from 10a.m. to 2 p.m. with the formal dedication ceremony taking place at noon. The dedication will not only mark the installation of a signature work of public art in Scottsdale, but also celebrate the gifting of the art by the developer to the city.

Scottsdale Land Auction Draws No Bids

An auction by the State Land Department for 125 prime acres in Scottsdale drew nary a bid on Tuesday morning. Opening bid was around 68 million dollars. Five bidders showed up for the auction but only 2 brought their checkbooks. They'll try again, with a lower minimum bid, next month.

$2 Million to Dispatch Scottsdale's Sewer Odor

The ongoing sewer odor problem at the Scottsdale Waterfront will cost the city $2 million or more to be fixed. Part of the cost is determining the precise nature of the problem because only then can a solution be designed and implemented. Meanwhile, tourists, residents and businesses are fuming over the rank smell along what is supposed to be one of Scottsdale's new, up-and-coming attractions.

Free Money for Downtown Marketing?

The Scottsdale City Council will consider subsidizing a marketing campaign for the downtown area. A similar program was funded last year along the Motor Mile, so downtown-area businesses are sure to at least receive some underwriting for their marketing efforts.

Horrifying Standoff Grips Scottsdale Neighborhood for 7 Hours

A horrific scene unfolded early Sunday morning near the corner of Pima and Chaparral roads as Scot Brannon, a 33-year old man, drove his truck into his ex-girlfriend's house. A standoff ensued with the criminal hiding in the attic and Scottsdale police eventually combined tear gas with a police K9 unit to bring down Brannon. Investigators believe that Brannon "may" have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the incident. Nah, ya think?

Free Arabian Horse Show at WestWorld All Week

A free Arabian horse show will feature an up-close and personal experience with the beautiful beasts. The equines, over 700 of 'em, will be on display at WestWorld in Scottsdale from 8-9pm beginning Tuesday, the 24th until Sunday, the 22nd. Horse petting, photos, and other hoof-related fun will be had by all.

And remember, it's free! We don't get a chance to say that very often in Scottsdale ;-)

Scottsdale Woman Receives New Set of Lungs

Ann Wylie of Scottsdale was the first person in the Valley to receive a new set of lungs. Ann suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a disease related to emphysema. The 61-year old Wylie, a smoker, received her new lungs from an undisclosed Valley donor.

Need 125 Acres at Scottsdale Airpark?

If you're in the market for a 125-acre commercial property at the Scottsdale Airpark, Tuesday could be your lucky day. The State Land Department will hold an auction for a choice parcel that will likely provide many clues into the current real estate dynamic in the northeast Valley.

That's Scottsdale!

Mark Scarp absolutely nails it with his column today. Some of Scottsdale's issues are more entertaining or tantalizing because of who we are, who we think we are and who others think we are. One thing's for sure: all the stories Scarp mentions, in some way, scream "Scottsdale!"

Green Building Tour in Scottsdale

Take a self-guided tour of green homes and building in Scottsdale on April 28. The Arizona Solar Center is organizing the tour of energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly residential and commercial buildings.

Inside Look at Exclusive Van Horssen Club Group

Interested in driving some of the world's tops cars around Scottsdale? Take a look inside the ultra-elite Van Horssen Group for some top-of-the-line rides, any of which would be big hit at the downtown club scene, on the 101 or at the clubhouse.

North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce On the Rise

The North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, a mere 4 months old, is experiencing rapid growth. The organization recently held its first ribbon-cutting ceremony, and new members are signing up a fast pace. The need for a Chamber focused on north Scottsdale has been evident for a long time. Congrats to Chamber Norte!

Go Salsa Dancing in Scottdale

Check out Pepin Restaurant on Friday or Saturday night for some great food and amazing salsa dancing. The throw-down begins at 9:30pm and costs $7 at the door.

Nightime Landing at Scottsdale Airport

Interesting video from inside the cockpit as a Cessna airplane lands at Scottsdale Airport.

Police Chief's Daughter Has DUI Case Moved

Cody Rodbell, the 21-year old daughter of Scottsdale police chief Alan Rodbell, will have her DUI case moved to a new court in Chandler. This is the second change of venue in the case since Cody's March 28 arrest for drunk driving in Scottsdale, where her father is Chief of Police. Her upcoming appearance in Court is sure to inspire a media frenzy which the Insider will be all over.

Desert Mountain High School Students Arrested for Explosives

Five seniors at Desert Mountain High School have been arrested in connection with recent chemical thefts at the school. Officials state the students are involved in the production of explosives, a frightening revelation given recent school violence episodes.

Scottsdale Waterfront Sewer Smell Continues

Sewer odor has been dogging the Waterfront project from day 1. Olfactory unpleasantness continues and no actual solution seems to be in sight. This is a local problem that could have been avoided had the proper planning been done by the city and the developers. The Waterfront is an awesome amenity for Scottsdale. Unfortunately, sewer stink continues to fouls people's experience there.

Scottsdale Named "Best Place to Live" By Phoenix Magazine

Phoenix Magazine has awarded their prestigious "Best Place to Live" 2007 designation to Scottsdale. The magazine will hit the news stands next week, but the Insider got the early scoop. Scottsdale continues to appear at the top of "Best Of" lists, but staying at the top is tough. How could the city best sustain and build on this wonderful momentum to create the Scottsdale's future? Your ideas are welcome.

Solar Power Comes Standard in New Scottsdale Homes

Solar-powered homes are defining a new standard in Scottsdale. Modus Development is offering the green energy system to home buyers at the company's newest offerings at Oak & Scottsdale roads in Scottsdale. The developer is teaming up with Salt River Project to provide the systems for the innovative homes, officially certified as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) buildings. The homes are so green that they will, on annual basis, offset 30,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, the main culprit in climate change.

Scottsdale's Culture Needs Your Input

The Scottsdale Cultural Council is midway through an assessment of cultural needs in the community. Before any conclusions are made, community members are invited to participate in a discussion about the preliminary issues identified from interviews and focus groups with community and cultural leaders.

Residents are invited to a community forum from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 24, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Stage 2 Theater to ensure that the cultural assessment reflects residents' perspective and knowledge.

Key issues for discussion include:

• What are Scottsdale's primary cultural assets?
• What is the future role of arts and culture in the civic life of Scottsdale? What is the "big vision?"
• How can the arts and culture play a strategic role in solving social, civic and economic problems?
• To what ends should investments in facilities be made? What kinds of cultural facilities will fulfill these outcomes?
• To what extent should programs that stimulate creativity in children and adults be prioritized?
• What future roles should the Scottsdale Cultural Council play in the cultural development of Scottsdale?

Interested participants are asked to RSVP by contacting Marilyn Williams at (480) 874-4660.

Pinnacle Peak Park Turns 5!

Pinnacle Peak Park's 5th birthday is coming up and you're invited to the party on Friday and Saturday. climbing demonstrations, guided hikes, a kids art contest and many more family friendly activities are planned. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Pinnacle Peak, the group instrumental in making Pinnacle Peak Park a realty.

Robber Hits Scottsdale Bank

Arizona Federal Credit Union in Scottsdale fell victim to a bank robber on Wednesday afternoon. No word on how much loot he left the bank with, but hopefully he'll spend his windfall on some new threads.

Illegal Alien Implicated in Murder Faces Deportation

An illegal alien allegedly involved in a murder last week motivated by a $500,000 insurance policy is facing deportation to Mexico. Thought to be a US citizen, it turns out that Jose Quintero-Figueroa was born in Mexico. After gaining unauthorized passage to the United States, Quintero-Figueroa was sent to prison for aggravated assault. Upon release he convinced federal immigration officials that he was actually a US citizen, a false status he held until today.

Matt Leinart's Photo Radar Pictures

Fresh on the heels of Cardinals QB Matt Leinart's speeding tickets in Scottsdale, we present a couple photos from the cameras. Looks like Mr. Leinart's quite the cell phone talker. And those leather seats sure look comfy. Enjoy!

B-17 Bomber Over Scottsdale

Go along on a Boeing B-17 for a flight over Scottsdale!

Scottsdale Police Advertising in Boston Urinals

The Scottsdale Police Department must be having a VERY difficult time finding recruits. Recognizing that there are plenty of people all over the country that would like to live and work in Scottsdale, the city decided to reach out to potential future officers. So, the Scottsdale Police Department purchased advertising above the urinals in Boston's Fenway Park. That's right. Beer-guzzling Red Sox fans could represent the thin blue line in the West's Most Western Town. Alas, the ads have only inspired two Bostonians to call the Scottsdale PD - one was a reporter, the other an abject drunk uttering profanities.

Is this really how taxpayer money should be spent?

Smile, Matt Leinart, You're on Scottsdale's Cameras!

Arizona Cardinal quarterback Matt Leinart was caught speeding through Scottsdale's highway cameras 3 times over 4 days in March. The rising NFL star has racked up several hundred dollars in penalties which he intends to pay "promptly" according to one of his agents. Leinart could have his Arizona drivers licence suspended because he has racked up 8 points in less than 12 months.

The Doors Going Up Downtown

A public art sculpture known as "The Doors" is currently being installed at the southwest corner of Scottsdale and Camelback roads. The nearly 30-foot high piece of art is set for a public debut during the first week of May, but interested residents and tourists have been lingering in the area for days, watching the dynamic piece take shape.