Scottsdale Cop Loses Job Over Wrongful Search

One of Scottsdale's not-quite-finest has quit his job with the city after inappropriately searching a female in response to a call from the woman. The sophomore cop made a freshman mistake and is now paying the price.

Protesters Follow Sheriff Joe Arpaio to Scottsdale

Joe Arpaio's book tour continues to run into local protests. Angry protesters showed up at the Barnes and Noble on Shea Blvd. on Saturday to "welcome" America's nuttiest sheriff. Arpaio's hard-line immigration stance continues to divide the community while doing little to drive down crime in Maricopa County.

Why don't we have term limits for County politicians yet? Joe's a ringing endorsement for them.

William Miller Faces First Sentence Awaiting Murder Trial

Accused child-killer and confirmed asshole William Miller has been sentenced to 3.5 years in a fraud case. That's nothing compared to what 'ole Billy's going to face when he's sentenced for killing 5 people, including a 10-year old boy, after torching a Mesa home. Bill is one Scottsdale resident we certainly won't miss. Good riddance, scumbag.

Scottsdale Culinary Institue Grad Wins "Top Chefs"

The Bravo network's most recent winner from the the hit TV-show "Top Chefs" is Stephanie Izard, a chef who graduated from Scottsdale's very own Culinary Institute, one of the most respected in the country. Congratulations to Stephanie and hats off to the top-quality program at SCI.

Axis-Radius Valet Attacked After Dropping Keys

A valet attendant at Axis-Radius was attacked and knocked unconscious after dropping keys to a customer's Cadillac Escalade. Cinque Glendy of Phoenix attacked the worker, then threatened another before being forcefully subdued by Scottsdale police. Just another Phoenix tough-guy acting like an idiot? Sure, but the poor valet is just trying to do his job, albeit apparently not very well.

More Debt for Scottsdale Schools

Scottsdale school officials are preparing to go back to the public trough in an attempt to finance renovations and improvements in the local school system. Improvements are needed, but perhaps the district could also consider some cost-saving measures as well. We'll see if that's up for discussion.

Javelinas Go On the Attack

Residents of the far northeast Valley are used to javelinas knocking over garbage cans, however dogs in Scottsdale are the creature's newest victims. Residents in northeast Scottsdale should be on guard for the animal, especially at night. And remember, it's not a pig, it's a collard peckery.

Closure of Zuni School Pending

Parents who send their kids to the Zuni school were surprised to learn that the School Board may close the north Scottsdale campus and merge students into other nearby schools. If the change goes through, students will be moved to different schools in the fall, presumably placing more burden on existing schools and educators.

Does closing schools lead to better educational opportunities? Stay tuned.

Cost of Living in Scottsdale Going Up

As if energy, food and housing costs weren't rising fast enough, the City of Scottsdale is actually considering raising a number of fees on its residents and county island refugees. Want water, sewer or trash services in the West's Most Western Town? Prepare to pay more. Raising fees on vital municipal services is short-sighted and hurts long-time residents and businesses.

Doesn't the City Council want to take the summer off anymore?

W Hotel Scottsdale Delayed Until August 1

This is one time when we want W to come to Scottsdale. Unfortunately, those folks waiting for the legendary hotel line will have to wait a little longer. Under construction for about 2.5 years, the facility is now scheduled to open on August 1. Not soon enough for many of us.

South Scottsdale Stabbing

Partying in Scottsdale? Stick to the downtown area. As violence overtakes South Scottsdale, you'll hear a lot more stories like this one - a stabbing at a bar on McDowell Road. Bottom line, who wants to party with someone who looks like the dude in the picture? Not me.

Polluted Scottsdale Water Adds Up to Half-Million Dollar Fine

Some of Scottsdale's water has been polluted for decades. The culprits are the ones responsible for the cleaning up their mess, rightfully so. Today, it was announced they would pay a penalty of $500,000 for causing contamination of Scottsdale's water with an industrial solvent known as TCE or trichloroethylene. Yummy!

Basha's Flees South Scottsdale

In yet another sign of south Scottsdale's decline, Basha's at McDowell Road and 74th Street closed this weekend. The anchor tennant in a crumbling strip mall, the departure of the store is a bad sign for the area and a challenge that the city must deal with before that area falls into blight. The store which has occupied the space for 44 years is going to leave a crater in the community. Time for business and political leaders to step up.

City's Growth is Beyond Its Control

As Phoenix goes, so goes Scottsdale. Like it or not, that is the conclusion that residents and city leaders are coming to as development all around the city impacts Scottsdale for the good and bad. Maybe regional planning wasn't such a bad idea, eh?

Escape From South Scottsdale

South Scottsdale has always been plagued with the woes of bordering Tempe and Maricopa County land. The area created pockets of "no-man lands" where cops rarely go and crime is rampant. This leads, of course, to crime encroaching on the suburban areas in the city's southern area. Now, a rash of home burglaries is spurring long-time residents to flee the area for their own safety. Pathetic. Where is Scottsdale PD when you need them?

Scottsdale Police Refuse To Arrest Illegal Immigrants

In an act that will surely make people even more upset, Scottsdale Police Chief Alan Rodbell recently stated that he would not use his police force to round-up illegal aliens in sweeps being coordinated by Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio. Illegal immigration is the #1 issues to many Scottsdale and area residents, yet the police chief steadfastly refuses to enforce the law and crack down on illegal immigrants in Scottsdale.

West Jet Aircarft Must Pay Whistleblower $94K

Scottsdale-based West Jet Aircraft must pay $94,000 in damages to a whistle-blower who called out the company on airplane safety issues. After the unnamed employee exposed shady practices at the West Jet, he was fired for complaining to the FAA. That is, of course, illegal, and the company probably realizes that now.

Scottsdale Police Calls Up, Crime Down

Last year, the Scottsdale police department answered more calls than in previous years, but crime actually fell 4%, that is if Scottsdale Police Chief Alan Rodbell is to be believed.

Rattlesnake Caught in Scottsdale Home

The cute little critter below was found on a front pation and quickly removed by the Scottsdale Fire Department.

Scottsdale Home Resales Down 21%

The Scottsdale home resale market is taking a big hit, plunging 21% in May 2007 compared to May 2006. A variety of factors have resulted in a cascading impact on the real estate market across the country. But the frothy real estate market in Arizona and Scottsdale specifically, is ripe for this type of downturn. There is no question that it is a short-term correction. Scottsdale's desirability is constantly ascending. But the steep losses will no doubt leave some families in a very tough economic position.

Scottsdale Car Auctions Go Head to Head

Two car auctioneers that hold large events in Scottsdale are battling it out for control of a site near 101 and Scottsdale road. Russo & Steel has been holding an annual auto auction on a parcel of land in that area for the past few years. R&S is an upstart competitor going after Barrett-Jackson customers. However, it appears that Russo & Steel did not have the proper permits from the state to hold their auction on the particular parcel of land they were using. Barrett-Jackson uncovered this discrepancy, applied for the proper permits and could take the land right out from under Russo & Steel, effectively wiping out the underdog's event. It's a tough world out there and R&S need to be perform due diligence when producing an event. They screwed up and unfortunately for Russo & Steel, their competitor found out about it before they did.

New Scottsdale Traffic Cameras Coming July 1

Drivers on Shea Boulevard, north Pima Road and McDowell Road will see new photo enforcement cameras being installed in the next several weeks as Scottsdale makes changes to the program.

The City Council last month selected a new operator, American Traffic Solutions, for the city's street photo enforcement program. ATS begins operations on July 1 with cameras in three new locations. Six current locations will remain unchanged.
Scottsdale also is working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety on a transition plan for cameras on the Loop 101 Freeway. The changes approved by the Council last month apply only to city streets.

The new Scottsdale street camera locations are:

* Northbound and southbound Pima Road between Los Gatos and Thompson Peak Parkway. These cameras, at a mid-block location between intersections, will monitor for speed only.

* Eastbound and westbound Shea Blvd. between 120th and 124th streets, also a mid-block, speed-only camera.

* Eastbound McDowell Road at Scottsdale Road. This intersection camera will monitor both speed and red-light running.

Barrett-Jackson 2007 Video Review

Here's a 10-minute review from the 2007 Barret-Jackson auction. Makes me excited for 2008!

Know Your Wines? Prove It!

Wine aficionados will be on hand tomorrow night at Armitage in Scottsdale. The wine lounge is holding their fun Brown Bag Challenge on Wednesday night. Come put your taste buds to the test and take home some wonderful wine.

Scottsdale Crime Rises Slightly

FBI data released today show that crime rose 2% in Scottsdale between 2005-2006. While the increase is small, this should not be seen as good news. Parts of Scottsdale are being overrun with criminal activity. People don't feel as safe as they used to on the streets, and for good reason. The Scottsdale Police Department and the the city's elected officials need to spend more time working on crime and blight in Scottsdale and less time quibbling over cost-of-living increases for city employees.

Free Goodies Flowing to Downtown Condo Owners

As people start moving into downtown Scottsdale condos, local marketers are falling all over themselves to offer shopping incentives to the new downtown dwellers. Goodie bags full of plush robes, wine and other top-notch gifts are being showered on new residents. The welcome wagon has never been so couture.

A Look Inside The Scottsdale Princess

Staying with the travel theme, here is video from the inside of a room at the Scottsdale Princess.

The New York Times Visits Scottsdale

Scottsdale is featured in the Sunday paper. The travel article visits some great Scottsdale restaurants, bars, hotels, resorts and attractions. The author doesn't miss a beat and correctly concludes that Scottsdale sizzles, regardless of the temperature outside.

Scottsdale Restaurant Review: Olive & Ivy

This is not actually a restaurant review. My experience at Olive & Ivy has been confined exclusively to the bar area. So with that in mind:

Olive & Ivy is a wonderfully charming marketplace/bar/restaurant. You can go there to grab and soda and sandwich, a martini or a full dinner. It's located at Scottsdale's somewhat infamous Waterfront. As you walk in to Olive & Ivy, a deli-style counter greets you with a casual, informal feeling. Wander past the large chalkboard-style menu with a great list of hearty sandwiches and you'll find the bar area. My friend and I sat a small bar table and relaxed in a couple very large, overstuffed chairs. The bar menu was perfect with a blend of refreshing summertime cocktails and delicious appetizers. Mt friend opted for a mojito and I chose a "Grape Crush" - grape vodka with grape juice. Simple, but oh so good.

Next up was the food. Our small sampling featured average hummus with warm pita bread, and above average flat bread with basil, garlic and tomatoes. The generous portion was absolutely delicious. The bread was perfectly cooked and the cherry tomatoes were big and sweet. This is a great dish to enjoy over a few drinks.

Olive & Ivy had a great, festive dynamic vibe all night. We arrived at 5pm; by 7pm the place was packed. It's roomy and can meet almost any need with the options of a deli, bar or restaurant. Next time you're hungry think of Olive & Ivy. You will not be disappointed.

Dirty Scottsdale On ABC15 News

Kudos to DirtyScottsdale! The 3-month old site has landed itself on Channel 15 in the wake of the recent Arizona Republic article. Check out the piece below.

Scottsdale's First Death Row Candidate?

Alleged killer of five, William Miller has found that Miller is mentally competent and can stand trial for trial in the killing of five people, including a fifteen-year old and a 10-year old, in February 2006. A Scottsdale resident, Miller could face the death penalty for the killings which sprang the victims' knowledge of from Miller's shady business dealings and insurance scams.

Princiotta Coin Collection Sold by Killer

The coin and memorabilia collection that served as the motive in the killing of 9/11 hero fireman Sal Princiotta by Jeff Bigham was sold by Bigham after the murder to a coin dealer in southern California. Bigham received nearly $20,000 for Sal's collection, most of which is now untraceable because it was sold off in pieces.

Bigham befriended the retired firefighter in Las Vegas earlier this year. He sold Princiotta a safe for his Scottsdale condo and became aware of Sal's coin and memorabilia collection. Bigham then killed Sal for that collection in a robbery at the condo on May 1. Bigham killed himself in southern California last Friday as police were closing in on him.

Summer Wine Tasting in Scottsdale

Whether it's the patio with a book and a bottle of whites, or the patio, the barbecue and a bottle of reds, you'll be ready if you attend the wine tasting this Friday, June 1 at Cru Fine Wines in north Scottsdale. Join them for variety of whites wines for sipping on the patio and some great reds to enjoy with summer barbecue. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Couple's Yoga in Scottsdale

Yoga has been gaining ground in local gyms for several years. Now, couples can enjoy the relaxing, rejuvenating yoga exercises together in a session designed exclusively for couples in Scottsdale. Touch With Intention is sponsoring the workshop yoga sessions which seek to, "...teach couples the ABC’s of massage and increase their awareness of verbal and non-verbal cues," said Jenn Kaye, founder of Touch with Intention.

Artichokes Going to Final Four

The Scottsdale Community College men's baseball team, the Artichokes, are heading to the college baseball final four in Tennessee. The 'Chokes need to win two games in a row in order to make a run for the championship.

Sal Princiotta Murder Motive Announced

Scottsdale police announced that the robbery of Sal Princiotta's coin collection served as the motive for his murder. Sal's family confirmed that the retired firefighter was associating with a man by the name of Jeff who sold Sal a safe. Jeff - Jeffrey Bigham, a 56-year old part-time Arizona resident - killed Sal on May 1 in an incident involving the safe and a coin and memorabilia collection kept by the hero firefighter. Bigham killed himself in front of police as they were closing in on him in San Bernadino, California on Friday.

Scottsdale DUI Checkpoint Nabs 20 Drunk Drivers

The Insider warned Scottsdale party-goers that there would be a DUI checkpoint setup in the Thomas and Scottsdale roads area. Many people got the message. Unfortunately, about 20 people did not heed my warning, got busted for DUI and are trying to figure out how they will keep their car, job and house without a driver's license. Good luck to y'all - next time check with Insider before heading out for a night of drinking.

Sal Princiotta's Coin Collection Missing from Condo

The coin collection belonging to murdered 9/11 firefighter Sal Princiotta is missing from the hero's Scottsdale condo. Princiotta's murderer killed himself in California on Friday and now clues and motives are beginning to fall into place. It's believed that Sal had previous dealings in Scottsdale with the man who would ultimately murder the retired firefighter and avid photographer. The killer may have sold Sal a safe and was probably aware of the coin collection. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.

PETA Awards Scottsdale Business

Scottsdale dry cleaner Monte Carlo Cleaners recently received the Compassionate Business award from PETA. Business owner Mark Mayes states that he will not accept fur, wool or rabbit for dry cleaning. Anyone wishing to have non-animal items cleaned by Monte Carlo can get there by checking this map.

National Trails Days Event at Pinnacle Peak

In honor of National Trails Day, Pinnacle Peak Park is hosting an event on Saturday, June 2 at 6:30 a.m. In conjunction with Scottsdale Healthcare, the park has invited special guest speaker Dr. Jennifer Burke who will discuss heat stress and how it affects the body. The talk will be followed by a guided, sunrise hike along the park trail. Water, trail mix and fruit will be provided to participants. The event is limited to the first 40 people and registration is required by calling 480-882-4636.

Fetish Prom Fretting Continues

The freaks will literally be out tonight as the Fetish Prom comes to downtown Scottsdale. City leaders are howling - and not with delight. Concerned over the supposed message that is sent when such events take place in Scottsdale, several city council members are railing against the kinky party. As usual, their concerns and priorities are off base. This is a niche event for a niche crowd, similar to the Lingerie Bowl. If Scottsdale wants to continue to be regarded as a world class destination, then it can't blush every time someone wants to hold a sex-themed event in the appropriate, downtown club area.

Sal Princiotta's Killer Shoots Self

The main suspect in the murder of 9/11 hero Sal Princiotta killed himself yesterday in California as police were closing in. After fleeing on foot in San Bernadino, the murderer took the coward's way out, shooting himself in the head. Princiotta's dealings with the man are murky, but the suspect apparently sold Sal a safe and may have had significant previous contact with the the firefighter from New York. Princiotta's family and friends continue to be in our prayers. In honor and celebration of Sal's life, please check out his amazing photo collection.

Scottsdale vs. Glendale? No Contest.

AZCentral has a rather silly but fun head-to-head going on: Scottsdale vs. Glendale. The Insider's allegiance is obvious; and seriously, if you want to have a fun night out on the town, a fantastic meal or world-class shopping, then you better head to Scottsdale. The "story's" authors point out that Glendale's stock is rising, with Jordin Sparks and the Super Bowl topping the west side charts. Fair enough. But those victories are flashes-in-the-pan. Here today, gone tomorrow (if you thing Jordin is gonna be hanging around Glendale for long, you've got another thing coming). Regardless, the west side-east side match up is entertaining and does contain a few on-the-money observations:

OBNOXIOUSLY LARGE HOLDING PLACE WestWorld vs. the University of Phoenix Stadium. Think mud for parking lots in Scottsdale vs. the toilet bowl mirage in the middle of the Glendale desert. Advantage: Deuce. They both give us hives just thinking about parking there.

THE SUITE LIFE Springhill Suites by Marriott in Glendale vs. the Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North. Advantage: It's not David vs. Goliath. It's way more lopsided than that.

CULTURE QUOTIENT Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art vs. the Bead Museum in Glendale. Advantage: OK, now we're just being mean.

Scottsdale ultimately prevails in this tale of the tape of two cities, but Glendale ain't to shabby and is looking better everyday.

Fetish Prom Comes to Scottsdale Tomorrow

The Fetish Prom will make its annual romp through Scottsdale on Saturday night at the Venue of Scottsdale downtown. Boots, chains and whips will be in abundance and on display in the West's Most Western Town. Where are those dozens of women who were so upset recently over the Lingerie Bowl? Wait until they get a look at the Fetish Prom!

More Scottsdale Cops Carrying Tasers

Think twice before acting up in Scottsdale. The local police department just ordered a slew of new tasers. The electro-shock guns have been a controversial part of police actions for several years. Critics be damned as the Scottsdale Police Department plans to be put a taser in the hand of nearly every uniformed cop, bringing the departments taser tally to 425 - enough to take down even a large group of rowdy downtown clubbers.