HEADLINE NEWS
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In-person voting under way for March 13 Special Election
Registered voters can cast a ballot for the March 13 Special Election in-person at Scottsdale City Hall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd. In-person voting is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, through Friday, March 9. Voters will consider a General Plan update, a franchise agreement and seven City Charter amendments in the election.
** The General Plan update guides development and growth in the city for the next 10 to 20 years. Cities and towns are typically required to update their plans every 10 years.
** The franchise agreement, if approved by voters, would allow Southwest Gas to continue using the City's rights of way for pipelines and equipment.
** Seven charter amendments are carryovers from 2010 and did not make it on the 2010 ballot. The amendments would seek to change or clarify the charter, which is the document that defines the City's roles and powers.
Get more information about the ballot items and election online, or by calling the Scottsdale City Clerk's Office at (480) 312-2411.
Scottsdale is home to one of the Official AZ Centennial Witness Trees
This grove of 25 olive trees planted by Scottsdale founder Chaplain Winfield Scott, is still standing within medians along Second Street and Drinkwater Boulevard in Old Town. The grove’s alignment is the original windbreak for the border of citrus fields planted by Scott in 1896 while Arizona was a territory. Chaplain Scott influenced many to visit and live in the area. No doubt the exotic citrus, olives and scenery played a role in convincing them to stay. The trees have stood the test of time even in their now-urban environment, providing a lush historical backdrop to the thriving arts and entertainment district that has developed around them. Read more.
City offices closed President’s Day, Feb. 20
Although most city offices will be closed for Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 20, we’ll still collect garbage that day. Please place your containers where your trash is typically picked up by 5 a.m., that morning or the evening before collection. For more information, call (480) 312-5600.
Arizona joins forces with national “Through with Chew” Week, Feb. 20-24
Smokeless tobacco use is rising among students in eighth through 12th grades. What’s more, packaging for tobacco products is deceptively similar to packaging for candy and gum. To help combat these challenges, the Arizona Department of Health Services Bureau is taking part in the national “Through with Chew” Week, Feb. 20-24. The campaign promotes the dangers of chewing tobacco and increases awareness of its negative health effects. In response to both declining cigarette sales and tougher smoke-free laws around the country, tobacco companies have developed additional tobacco products and are marketing them as alternatives to smoking cigarettes or using traditional chew. Although the labels state the products contain nicotine and are not intended for consumption by children, health officials are concerned that new smokeless tobacco products packaged in colorful, sleek containers that look like gum and candy could entice and confuse children. The state’s ASHLine is available to help users kick the habit. Funded by the state tax on tobacco products through the Bureau of Tobacco and Chronic Disease at the Arizona Department of Health Services, the Arizona Smokers’ Helpline and www.ASHLine.org have been helping people quit tobacco since 1995. Free telephone and web-based quit services are provided free to Arizonans. For information, residents can call 1-800-55-66-222 or visit www.ASHLine.org.
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UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS SCHEDULE
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Saddle up for the annual Arabian Horse Show
The 57th annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show continues through Sunday, Feb. 26, at WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Road. Since 1955, the annual horse show has set the pace in the Arabian horse world. It has grown from 50 horses to more than 2,000 horses, bringing top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world competing for a chance to win.
Fit City Scottsdale takes place Feb. 18
Residents are invited to come celebrate fitness, health and wellness at the fourth annual Fit City Scottsdale Kickoff. Festivities take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Scottsdale Community College, 9000 E. Chaparral Road. Festivities will tip off with a Fit City 5K Run followed by live entertainment, fitness demonstrations and activities for all ages. For more information, call (480) 312-0217.
“All Things Senior” Expo on Feb. 22 offers information and entertainment
Here in Scottsdale, more than 40 percent of the population is older than 50.
To help address the issues and needs of our aging population, the Scottsdale senior centers are hosting an “All Things Senior” Expo. The free event, sponsored by McDowell Village and Arte Resort Living, is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St. The Expo will provide a "one-stop-shop" for those looking to connect with valuable local resources such as learning about senior housing, recreation and fitness opportunities, transportation resources and health and wellness. Dozens of exhibitors will be on hand to provide information and demonstrations. The event also features live entertainment and health screenings. The Scottsdale Police Department will be on hand to accept and properly dispose of expired and/or unwanted over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Plus, a representative from Parks and Recreation will answer horticulture questions. Get more information by calling the Granite Reef Senior Center at (480) 312-1700.
Scottsdale hits one out of the ball park with spring training lineup
Scottsdale’s determined to hit a home run this spring training season with events and specials sure to impress any baseball fan. Kicking off the 2012 Cactus League season is the Feb. 25-26 Spring Training Festival, brought to you by the Scottsdale Charros. The free two-day event at Scottsdale Civic Center Mall and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts includes never-before-seen items from the Buckhorn Baths’ resort collection, including candid home movies of the San Francisco Giants from the 1940s and ‘50s, and the Science of Baseball Festival, a symposium of many of the nation’s top sports researchers who will discuss and debate longstanding baseball trends and innovations. Fans will be encouraged to join in with quirky interactive activities and real-time scientific experiments. Partake in the fun while digging into ballpark chow from local restaurants, looking at art, purchasing baseball merchandise and listening to live music. Most of the 15 teams that make up the Cactus League will be represented at the Spring Training Festival. Visitors will be able to purchase spring training tickets, merchandise and take home autographs from former players. Get details here.
Check out these ongoing activities:
** ArtBridge Thursdays – Arizona-based talent to exhibit, demonstrate and sell their products and services in a festive atmosphere, 6 to 10 p.m. every Thursday through May, SouthBridge on the Canal, Downtown Scottsdale.
** ArtWalk – Visit many of the more than 100 art galleries in Downtown Scottsdale, 7 to 9 p.m. every Thursday, Scottsdale Arts District, just west of Scottsdale Road along Main Street and on Marshall Way north of Indian School Road to Fifth Avenue.
** Thursday Tunes at ArtWalk – Live music, Downtown Scottsdale next to the Method Art Gallery on Marshall Way, 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays.
** Old Town Farmers Market – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, First Street and Brown Avenue. (623) 848-1234.
** Stagecoach rides – Free, 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays through March, Fifth Avenue and Southbridge area of Downtown.
** Singing Cowboy Gary Sprague & Trusty Steed Dusty – 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays, through May, Downtown Scottsdale.
** Saturday Sounds – 1 to 3 p.m., Saturdays, northwest corner of Main Street and Scottsdale Road.
** SouthBridge Sundays – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays through May, SouthBridge on the Canal, Downtown Scottsdale.
** Downtown Cultural Trolley Tours – 10:30 a.m. second Saturday of the month, Old Adobe Mission – Downtown Scottsdale. (480) 634-6850,
** WestWorld hosts various horseshows and other events.
** Celebration of Fine Art – More than 100 artists set up working studios, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through March 25, southwest of Hayden Road and the Loop 101. (480) 443-7695
** Native Trails – Experience the music and culture of Arizona’s original residents, noon to 1:30 p.m. most Thursdays and Saturdays through April 14, Scottsdale Civic Center Mall.
** Sunday A’Fair – Free afternoon mini-festival, noon to 4 p.m. most Sundays through April, Civic Center Mall. (480) 994-ARTS.
Watch eTicket for information about more events.
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GET INVOLVED: OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE IN YOUR GOVERNMENT
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Residents invited to review proposed bond program Wednesday, Feb. 22
Residents are invited to share their views on a proposed 2012 Bond Program at a Bond Task Force meeting set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Via Linda Senior Center, 10440 E. Via Linda Road. The Task Force has established a preliminary program that includes 34 projects totaling $167.5 million. The Task Force was formed this summer by the City Council and charged with reviewing and recommending projects for a possible bond election in 2012 or beyond. The Task Force plans to finalize the program on March 8 and present its recommendations to the City Council on March 27 at a join study session with the Task Force.
Residents invited to Mayor’s State of the City Address, Feb. 23
Residents are invited to Mayor W. J. “Jim” Lane’s annual State of the City Address. The program will be Thursday, Feb. 23, beginning with a reception at 5 p.m. in the Atrium of the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St. The program follows at 5:30 p.m. in the Virginia G. Piper Theater. The speech is the Mayor’s annual review of the past year and Scottsdale’s current challenges and opportunities.
Pair of events benefits pet food pantries
**Pet food donations will be accepted from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Choice Pet Market, 7119 E. Shea Blvd. Proceeds will help stock Vista del Camino’s PET Pantry. Participants can donate pet food or cash. For more information, call Vista del Camino at (480) 312-2323.
** Residents are invited to celebrate Fozzie’s fifth birthday -- all while supporting a good cause. Fozzie is a member of the Police Crisis Intervention Services unit, which helps victims of crises deal with traumatic events. The birthday bash is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29, at Vista del Camino, 7700 E. Roosevelt. The department hosts a birthday party each year as a way to gather goods for Vista del Camino’s pet food bank. In addition to donations of pet food, new and gently used towels and blankets for local animal shelters are also being requested. Contact Anthony Pagliuca, crisis intervention specialist, at (480) 312-2384 for more event information. Meet Fozzie!
Celebrate founder’s birthday on Feb. 27
The “Friends of Winfield Scott” invite residents to celebrate Scottsdale founder Winfield Scott’s 175th birthday. The free event takes place from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, at the Scottsdale Historical Museum Courtyard, east of Brown Avenue and Main Street. Speakers include Mayor Jim Lane, Arizona’s Official State Historian Marshall Trimble and Scottsdale historians Joan Fudala and JoAnn Handley. Refreshments will be served. Learn more about Scottsdale’s history. For more event information, contact Roberta Pilcher at (480) 990-1690
Applications available for Public Safety Teen Academy
Although summer is months away, it’s not too early for teens 14 to 18 to start applying for the Public Safety Teen Academy, June 4-8. The class is limited to 40 participants and seats go quickly! The free program offers a total public safety hands-on experience, including exposure to police and fire training, tactics and job duties. Apply online by March 30.
Fire Department seeks volunteers
Join the Fire Department Family! The Scottsdale Fire Department is looking for volunteers to read stories to preschool and elementary age children, make deliveries to our fire stations, answer phones and schedule activities. Please contact Patty Jo Angelini at (480) 312-1815 or visit the department’s volunteer webpage.
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AT YOUR SERVICE - UTILITY SCHEDULE AND MORE
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Upcoming brush and bulk pickup schedule
The city provides monthly brush and bulk item collection, offering residents a convenient way to dispose of items too large for refuse containers. Residents are asked to have brush and bulk items out for pick up by 5 a.m. on Monday the week of scheduled service.
ere's the upcoming schedule:
Here's the upcoming schedule:
** Service Area #3 – Indian Bend Road to Thomas Road; and Happy Valley Road to Pinnacle Peak Road: Week of Feb. 20.
** Service Area #4 – Thomas Road to McKellips Road; and Pinnacle Peak Road to Thunderbird Road: Week of Feb. 27.
** Service Area #1 – Thunderbird Road to Indian Bend Road, east of the 101 Freeway; and Dynamite Boulevard to northern city limits: Week of March 5.
** Service Area #2 – Thunderbird Road to Indian Bend Road, west of the 101 Freeway; and Dynamite Boulevard to Happy Valley Road: Week of March 12.
For more information, contact Solid Waste Management Division (480) 312-5600.
Seasonal trolley routes popular with visitors
Two seasonal trolley services – the Hospitality Trolley and the Resort Trolley – provide Scottsdale visitors and residents a free, easy and fun way to explore Scottsdale. The Hospitality Trolley, which began its daily route Dec. 26, has served 4,070 riders through the end of January. Thus far, more than twice as many people as last year are riding the trolley daily to access hotels, shopping centers, special events and attractions along Scottsdale Road from north to south Scottsdale. Ridership on the Resort Trolley, which began its five-day-a-week route Dec. 27, also has been strong this year. Through the end of January, 1,120 people have used the service to transfer from seven Scottsdale and Paradise Valley resorts and restaurants into downtown Scottsdale. Both services are available through April 1. Get more information on trolley routes and stops here and here.
Free loaner tools available for neighborhood cleanups
Before the summer heat returns, plan now for a neighborhood cleanup. The city provides the use of a roll-off container and landscape tools – at no charge! A minimum of five households or volunteer group is required. For more information, call (480) 312-3111.
City information is just a phone call away by dialing 312-3111
The city’s information line connects you with live operators who have much of the event, traffic and meeting information that you want, or we'll forward your call to the correct department for further assistance. The line is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and for special events as publicized. So, the next time you have a question about the city, dial the city information line: (480) 312-3111.
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PROGRAMS FOR YOU
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Parada del Sol’s rich history topic of CityCable 11 show
Local Scottsdale historian Len Marcisz takes a look at the history of the Parada del Sol Parade. Watch it online anytime.
Sign up now for free landscape workshops
Scottsdale residents can help get their garden off to a good start by attending one or more of the Water Conservation Spring 2012 Landscape Workshops. All will be at the Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road, except for the Saturday, Feb. 25 workshop which will be at the Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden, 5601 N. Hayden Road. Weekday workshops are from 6 to 8 p.m. and weekend workshops are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Here is the workshop schedule:
**Saturday, Feb. 25: Learn to Prune – The hands-on workshop you’ve been asking for in an outdoor classroom setting. Watch a demonstration. Learn basic pruning cuts. Find out how to prune properly to promote the beauty, strength and health of your trees and shrubs.
** Thursday, March 1: Program Your Irrigation Controller – Take control of your landscape watering with step-by-step instructions and hands-on practice setting and adjusting the timer.
** Tuesday, March 6: Landscape Container Gardening – Kirti Mathura shares the basics of landscape container gardening for patios or yard accents. Learn to select plant size, shape and color to create intriguing arrangements. With the right container plants, you can even attract hummingbirds.
** Tuesday, March 20: Caring for Your Desert Garden – This class will shed light on misconceptions commonly associated with desert gardening including proper techniques for watering, fertilizing, pruning and other maintenance tips. It’s important to know how to properly care for your landscape after you’ve selected the right plants and installed them correctly.
** Tuesday, March 27: Program Your Irrigation Controller – Take control of your landscape watering with step-by-step instructions and hands-on practice setting and adjusting the timer.
** Saturday, March 31: Irrigation Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Repair – Get the basics on good maintenance practices, advice on problem solving and techniques you can use to keep your landscape irrigation system running smoothly.
Advanced registration is required and can be made online or by calling (480) 312-5690. Confirmations will be provided. Get water conservation tips.
Register now for golf classes at Tournament Players Club
Looking to improve your game and play like the professionals? City golf classes are “below par” and for golf that is a good thing! Various days and times are available with classes beginning the last week in February at the Tournament Players Club, 17020 N. Hayden Road. Sign up and let the academy instructors assist in teaching you the basics of perfecting your game. Get etailed class information call (480) 312-7957.
Get a heart beating with free CPR classes during February
The Scottsdale Fire Department is offering free hands-only CPR presentations at fire stations and senior centers during February. This newer CPR technique is simple, safe, does not require mouth-to-mouth contact and can dramatically improve a person’s chance of survival. The department is looking to train its 10,000th person this month. Advance registration is required. For details, call (480) 312-8000.
Protect yourself from identity theft – city hosts shredding event
Don’t be a victim of identity theft – come to an upcoming document shredding event. The Scottsdale Police Department, in partnership with State Farm Insurance, will host a document shredding event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the District 1 station, 7601 E. McKellips Road. A $2 per box donation is requested. Learn more by calling (480) 312- 0275.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy offers photography workshops
Join expert outdoor photographer and conservancy steward Richard Buchbinder for a two-day photography workshop. Two sessions are available. The first is Tuesday, Feb. 23, and Saturday, Feb. 25. The second one is on Thursday, March 15, and Saturday, March 17. Thursday classes are from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from sunrise to sunset. Both sessions take place at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Cost is $125 for one workshop or $200 for both. For more information or to register, call (480) 998-7971, ext. 102.
Neighborhood College classes continue March 6
Registration is available for Scottsdale’s Neighborhood College, a series of free classes where residents can receive the information, resources and tools needed to become effective neighborhood leaders. “The Top 10 Common Errors made by HOA Boards” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, at the Mustang Library 10101 N. 90th St. Pre-registration is required. For a complete schedule or to register, call (480) 312-2342 or email Joy Racine jracine@scottsdaleaz.gov.
Registration begins for Scottsdale City Government 101 classes
If you’re a new resident, local leader or long-time resident who just wants to learn more about your community, Scottsdale City Government 101 is for you. It’s a free series of classes summarizing our city government and how it works. Registration is available in February for classes that begin in March. Classes meet once a week over seven weeks at the city Design Studio, 7506 E. Indian School Road. Speakers include executive level managers and department directors in an interactive setting. For more information call (480) 312-4126 or email Neighborhood Services. Register here.
Scottsdale Police Citizens Academy begins March 7
Go behind the badge … The spring session of the Scottsdale Police Citizens Academy begins March 7 and runs 11 consecutive Wednesdays until May 16. All classes will take place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at various city locations. This hands-on and interactive academy is for citizens interested in department policies – and a chance to take an inside look at the units that protect citizens daily. An application process is required. For more information, contact Community Liaison Officer Chris Vassall at (480) 312-1922 or download the application on the community relations page of the Police Department Web site: http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/Police.
Help chase down water leaks
Grab the family and your running shoes and help chase down water leaks at the “One for Water 4-mile Race” Saturday, March 10, at Rio Vista Community Park in Peoria. Walking and running participants will help create awareness for fixing leaks and encouraging water efficiency in our homes, landscapes and businesses. Water leaks can add up to 10,000 gallons of water wasted each year in your home. That’s enough to fill a backyard swimming pool. The most common types of leaks found in the home include leaking toilet flappers, dripping faucets, shower heads and other leaking valves. Fixing water leaks is simple and easy to do and can save you as much as 10 percent or more on water bills each month. Registration is $25 and includes a reusable water bottle, t-shirt, snacks, and a free family festival after the run with hands-on leak repair demonstrations and the world-famous mascot - “Leaky Loo McFlapper” -- because a running toilet is only funny when it’s a mascot. Register for the race or learn more about Fix a Leak Week.
Fight roof rats -- citrus drop-off program runs Saturdays through March
Residents are joining forces to remove citrus from area properties to help control the roof rat population. The Citrus Drop-off Program runs Saturdays, through March 25, at the Elk's BPOE Scottsdale Lodge parking lot, 6398 E. Oak St. Participants are encouraged to drop off all viable/edible fruit from 8 a.m. to noon; commercial drop off will be from 8 to 10 a.m. and those wanting to pick up citrus can do so from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information about this program, residents should contact the Arcadia NEIGHBORtoNEIGHBOR Campaign at (602) 273-0435. To report a rat or for health and safety information, contact Maricopa County Vector Control at (602) 506-6616.
AARP offers free tax assistance for eligible residents
The AARP Tax-Aide program is available to help individuals, families and elderly taxpayers of low to moderate income prepare and file their income tax returns - free of charge. Electronic filing is available at each site:
** Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road, (480) 312-1700
** Via Linda Senior Center, 10440 E. Via Linda, (480) 312-5810
** Paiute Neighborhood Center, 6535 E. Osborn Road, (480) 312-2529.
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FUTURE EVENT SCHEDULE
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Enjoy a special evening March 1 at Native Arts ArtWalk
You’re invited to celebrate the spirit of the Southwest when the Native Arts ArtWalk returns from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 1, in the Downtown Scottsdale Arts District. This free event is hosted by the Scottsdale Gallery Association in conjunction with the Hopi Education Endowment Fund and the Heard Museum’s famed weekend Indian Fair. The Scottsdale Arts District is located on Main Street, from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and Marshall Way from Main Street to Fifth Avenue.
March 1 program gives tips on cutting cooling and heating costs
Air conditioning accounts for 43 percent of all energy used in Valley homes. Learn how you can reduce energy and save on home cooling and heating costs at the city’s March 1 Green Building lecture. The free program runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road. New and alternative cooling and heating systems will be discussed, as will how to improve existing systems. Registration is not required. Call (480) 312-3111 for more details on this free program.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park hosts “Exclusively Little” March 3
Tots and Toddlers are invited to join in the fun Saturday, March 3, during McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park’s annual "Exclusively Little” event. Festivities take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road. This free event for children six years and younger features game booths, moonwalks, face painting, a petting zoo, health demonstrations and other entertainment. Children can bring their favorite stuffed animal and enter it in the Stuffed Animal Contest -- prizes will be awarded to the most loved, cutest and best dressed. Train and carousel rides are $2 each. Children younger than three ride free with a paying adult. For more information, contact (480) 312-2312.
Join the Giants as they celebrate 30 years of Scottsdale spring training this March
Play ball! Pull out your orange garb and help the San Francisco Giants celebrate 30 years of Scottsdale spring training this March. The Giants’ first home game of the spring is Saturday, March 3, against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Tickets can be purchased at the Scottsdale Stadium box office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays or by calling 1-877-473-4849. To purchase group tickets, season tickets or to reserve the press box suites, ramada or patio area, call (415) 972-2209. To purchase tickets for the Charro Lodge and Pavilion, call (480) 990-2977. Get more information and a schedule.
Scottsdale Arts Festival, March 9-11
Explore the works of nearly 200 nationally-acclaimed exhibiting artists at the 42nd annual Scottsdale Arts Festival March 9-11 on the Civic Center Mall, 7380 E. Second St. Enjoy continuous live entertainment from multiple stages, savor food and beverages from the Valley’s top culinary establishments and experience creative fun in Imagine Nation -- the kids’ area. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for students and free for children 12 and younger. Avoid traffic congestion by catching a free shuttle from Downtown parking lots or the Loloma Transit Center. For more information, call (480) 994-2787.
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