This is in response to the opinion from Bruce Lamb (“Some employees don’t live in Sun City”).
Bruce, I too am tired of the pandemic. But science is science. You wanting to not …
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that fully vaccinated Americans can gather indoors with friends and family — without wearing masks or social distancing.
Esteemed DOJ leadership:
We have authored this letter to request your immediate intervention in Arizona, on behalf of Black voters, who are currently being involuntarily and very likely …
I got the call from Rodney Wayne regarding Lost Dutchman Days with news… Lost Dutchman Days 2021 was canceled and so was the cowboy church that I had started over 25 years ago.
Heartbroken, …
When you are thirsty and hungry, you go to your refrigerator, fill a glass of water and clean your bowl of fruit under running water at your sink. But what if the water does not run to fill your …
The Apache Junction Area Chamber is rolling out the Shop Local program.
Designed to help our local area businesses during the slower summer months, and to keep everyone shopping local, the …
I recall a couple of things my mother said to me that I believe still apply today: “Nothing good happens after midnight” and “Don’t go to places where bad things …
Truth, trust, transparency and accountability are words that are desperately needed to guide all levels of government today.
At recent Pinal County Board of Supervisors meetings and throughout our …
Cyber Ninjas. I never heard of these people. What is a cyber ninja?
Sounds like a kid’s video game. About the same level of credibility. They are searching our supposedly secret ballots with …
Do us a favor and pick a bridge — any bridge — across the Salt River. Which one came to mind? Maybe along Interstate 10 near Sky Harbor International Airport?
Last month, Arizona lawmakers had an opportunity to support legislation that would have made it easier for local cities to address nuisance short-term rental properties that have been the cause of …
Can you feel it? The temperature is rising. Summer is just around the corner, and soon we will find ourselves mopping the sweat off our brows while silently questioning our life choices.
Why in …
Give Aaron Rodgers a break, Green Bay. Just like Bart Starr and Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers has been a Hall of Fame quarterback for the Packers for 16 years.
And like Favre, it appears that Rodgers …
Abrazo Health is proud to honor its nurses during National Nurses Week, May 6-12, an annual celebration that recognizes the critical role nurses perform in our hospitals and for our community.
I joined Mayor Skip Hall, Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborne, Youngtown Mayor Mike Levault, and several other elected officials to celebrate White Tank Wild Day at the beautiful Skyline Regional Park.
It is difficult to pick up a newspaper and not see an article on sky rocketing Scottsdale home prices.
Additionally, Scottsdale has the highest average apartment rental rates in the metro area. …
I have a comment about the new micro hospital, Abrazo Surprise Hospital (located at 16815 W. Bell Road).
Being a local resident, I’m aware of its location being situated a little distance …
Intellectual property rights are under assault overseas — and here at home. These attacks could prevent the creation of dozens of lifesaving medicines. That should worry every American.
When my husband and I — six-year residents of Sun City West — were vetting locations in which to retire back in 2005, there was so much to consider.
Options were as plentiful as there …
While COVID-19 most frequently affects the lungs, other parts of the body may also be impacted, such as a loss of taste and smell. For a smaller number of people, instances of hearing loss are emerging, according to the International Journal of Audiology.
It has always been the principle of Pinal County public health to share COVID information as we receive it and also to be honest about how much remains unknown about COVID-19.
For example, new …
When nurse Gina Day showed up at Golden Heritage Assisted Living in Scottsdale to care for Joan Cullen, she noticed right away that her sweet patient’s hair had been set and styled for a …
The Center for the Future of Arizona thanks Gov. Ducey for signing House Bill 2862, legislation that supports Arizona schools in providing learner-centered education to better meet the needs of every student and family.
It’s got to be one of the worst phone calls to receive as a state Department of Transportation director. To find out you have an injured employee or, even worse, a fatality in a work zone — something that is totally preventable if people are driving safely through a work zone.
I just wanted to let you know how thrilled I was to go to my mailbox and find a copy of the Mesa Independent.
I’ve been an avid newspaper reader since I was in grade school and I’ve …
This is the time of year that many of us in the Valley start talking about the extreme summer heat and planning how we can escape, if even for a weekend.
This is also the time of year that many of …
A newly elected president is said to have a 100-day honeymoon period before entering a routinely chaotic and combative political arena. I’d hoped the same courtesy would extend to a newly elected Recorder. It did not.
Maricopa County is one of the fastest growing counties, which means having to constantly navigate safely around work zones and orange cones; and Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) teams are working on projects across the county, ensuring the roads are safe and accessible.
Snow melting. Flowers growing. The swallows returning to Capistrano. All signs of spring finally returning after months of winter. In the world of transportation, there is another unmistakable sign that warmer weather is here to stay: The annual reopening of state highways in northern Arizona.
I was happy to learn the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, supports equal funding for alternative protein research.
“The United States can continue to be a …
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, our economy saw record-breaking growth. In 2018 and 2019 ,we saw wages, our unemployment rate, and revenues hit record-breaking levels.
Maricopa County is one of the fastest growing counties, which means having to constantly navigate safely around work zones and orange cones.
Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) …
In the Recreations Centers of Sun City West E-News edition of April 14, 2021, there is a link to commentary by RCSCW Chief Financial Officer Pete Finelli.
While any information is appreciated, the …
Last month, the World Trade Organization considered a petition from South Africa and India that, if adopted, would allow countries to ignore intellectual property protections on all things COVID-19.
Having read twice now in recent weeks about the misconception of “open borders,” let’s correct a few perceptions.
More than 90% of single adults are expelled and more than 70% of …
Many people look forward to retirement and all the enjoyment it can bring after having worked so hard for decades. But from a distance, whether a few years or many years away from retirement, it’s not easy to clearly see what retirement will look like.
On Jan. 23, 2021, the Republican State Committee voted for a new state chairman and other officers and bylaw changes and additions at their annual meeting.
It was an emotional day to remember for veteran Kenneth Hamrick — not only did the staff at The Groves in Goodyear invite family and friends to a patio party to celebrate his 89th birthday, his Hospice of the Valley care team had another surprise in the works.
Despite Arizona voters defeating a well-funded effort in 2008 to allow small-dollar loans to exceed our state’s interest rate cap of 36% plus fees, a persistent group of online high-cost …
Keto. Low Carb. Eating programs based on a point system. You name it, the “diet” most likely exists. And while these programs offer the promise of a healthier lifestyle, touting huge …
Sens. Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly should support federal funding for cultured-meat research. For those who don’t know, cultured meat is grown from cells, without slaughter.
Widespread …
Demetra Presley was inspired to start her nonprofit organization, Go With The Flow, after seeing a “Now This” video on Facebook about a teacher making “period packs” for her …
My story is pretty simple. I was a very active young man, running everywhere, and served as a volunteer in an elite Navy unit. After my discharge, I worked as a bouncer in bars from Florida to …
I am writing concerning the article in the newspaper dated March 17 (“Property rules up for discussion”).
I am a resident of Surprise and would like to voice my opinion of a situation …
Some are advancing the argument that the 2010 process was flawed because it emphasized “competitiveness.” This is a false argument used to undermine the integrity of the work of the 2011 redistricting commission and perpetuates the idea that the 2011 district maps were unfairly drawn to benefit Democrats because competitiveness was considered.
Distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine is well under way.
We all hope this is a means to an end of social restrictions and making our way back to life as we once knew it. According to the CDC over …
Dear Scottsdale City Council,
Are you sleeping well at night? Unfortunately, many of your constituents aren’t, because you, our council, are not upholding your oaths of office to protect our …
Gov. Doug Ducey’s executive order on March 25 certainly had and will continue to have an impact on our community. Whether you agree or disagree with the transition of “required” virus mitigation to “recommended,” it’s here.
Supreme Court Justice George Sutherland (who also was a former U.S. Senator and congressman from Utah) famously noted in the landmark 1926 case of Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co. that: “A nuisance may be merely a right thing in the wrong place — like a pig in the parlor instead of the barnyard.”
Tax season is here and we must all pay taxes. This is an unavoidable truth. Unfortunately, another unavoidable truth is Mother Earth is overtaxed.
Her current rate is way too high. We can’t …
Planning to visit Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park in Yarnell? Make sure you do it by not parking illegally along State Route 89, putting yourself and others at risk.
Keto. Low Carb. Eating programs based on a point system. You name it, the “diet” most likely exists.
And while these programs offer the promise of a healthier lifestyle, touting huge …
I’m sending you another plea for a new Sun City flag at the corner of Grand and 107th avenues.
You put hard work into trying to draw people to our community by putting any and all kinds of …
My daughter was 10 years old when she first attended Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work Day at my office At the time, I was working in a role sourcing large contracts, leveraging all of the …
We are concerned about the unsightly trash at the recycling bins at Pebblecreek Golf Course, 18838 N. 128th Ave.
It is an eyesore. People are discarding too much trash there and the bins need to …
What does it say about our culture when moms and their children are facing unbearable pain and trauma during the pandemic? This crisis has simply amplified the way women in the U.S. are undervalued, or not valued at all.
A recent survey from ALG-POS found that 80% of Americans agree that their health care costs keep going up every year, and more than 70% are struggling with the unpredictability of out-of-pocket …
Supreme Court Justice George Sutherland (who also was a former US Senator and congressman from Utah) famously noted in the landmark 1926 case of Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co that: “A nuisance may …
The short-term rental platforms are working hard to spin their recent loss. They would have you believe that they offered legislation to “fix” the STR rental problems that they created in …
In the ongoing debate over gun control you often hear statements like “no one really needs an AK-47 or an AR-15” (these are usually mislabeled “assault weapons”) or “no …
Sorry Ralph Fales (who wrote “Historic horse racing could be a win for Arizona,” page 8, April 1, 2021, issue of the Apache Junction/Gold Canyon Independent), you may love your horses but …
Rep. Paul Gosar pulls teeth but now he’s pulling one over on his constituents. He has been Tweeting and putting out information on how he’s so pleased to inform us that municipalities and …
The annual transition is underway. As April arrives, many Arizonans start to deal with the reality that winter weather is long gone and pleasant spring temperatures will make way for the “hot stuff.”
Matt Gaetz, the reactionary Republican representative from the western portion of Florida’s panhandle region, is the subject of an ongoing federal criminal investigation by the U.S. Justice …
When over 100 local business owners join forces in support a development that will protect their livelihoods and the vitality of Scottsdale’s downtown, City Council needs to listen up. …
I was on hold for 45 minutes before a gruff customer service representative snapped, “Can I help you?”
I was on hold for so long that I forgot what I was calling about. As I sprung to …
The Biden administration’s plan to defeat the coronavirus is underway — and notably includes intentions to “build better preparedness for future threats.”
How much longer does Scottsdale have to wait before our most heavily traveled pedestrian corridor gets decent ADA complaint walkable rollable pathways?
I would like to bring awareness to the …
I remember when I was first elected to represent District 6 in Mesa. We were just coming out of the recession, and there was hardly any construction taking place. Here we are six years later and Mesa …
As one of those other “people” (quotes are his) referenced in George Aschendorf’s letter (“People can hang flags on property”) a couple weeks ago, I take issue with his …
The Social Security Administration has made its intention known that it is considering shuttering the Apache Junction Social Security office and moving more than 20 miles away, to the town of Gilbert.
I understand the Arizona Senate has moved forward with selecting and contracting with firms to complete their review of the November 2020 General Election results. I am not familiar with any of the firms listed in the Senate press release.
Gov. Doug Ducey’s executive order on March 25 certainly had and will continue to have an impact on our community. Whether you agree or disagree with the transition of “required” virus mitigation to “recommended,” it’s here.
I, like most Americans, am frustrated by Congress’s inabilities to do anything toward solving pressing current problems. I would like to suggest two remedies here on which members of both …
I sure wish I wasn’t the one writing this email and I am so saddened to have to tell you about the passing of a dear friend. Russell St. John passed away recently from complications brought on …
Scottsdale’s leaders are proud to proclaim that we are a Golden Rule City.
We’ve been one for a couple years now. The city adopted the One Community Unity Pledge a few years before …
The Social Security Administration has made its intention known that it is considering shuttering the Apache Junction Social Security office and moving more than 20 miles away, to the town of …
As a Republican, I am puzzled at Rep. Debbie Lesko’s stance on who should get the COVID vaccine.
I believe the concept of “herd immunity” was first mentioned by former President …
While the COVID-19 pandemic has created unforeseen challenges for the American health care system, it has also created innovative opportunities for long-overdue health care reform.
Some are advancing the argument that the 2010 process was flawed because it emphasized “competitiveness.” This is a false argument used to undermine the integrity of the work of the 2011 …
About a year ago, my husband and I built an ADA-friendly guesthouse on our property with the expectation that we’ll eventually use it to look after our aging parents. In the meantime, …
Vice President Kamala Harris stated that America is racist and has always been racist.
Her father was from Jamaica and her mother from India. She was elected in the United States of …
SB1379 could protect the integrity of homeownership, and could be so much more, if fixed to place more trust of STR zoning decisions to local control and/or to provide stronger and more effective …
The recently enacted American Rescue Plan does not provide help directly to Sun City, because we are unincorporated.
Funds are allocated to Maricopa County and surrounding cities based on …
It’s hard to believe that a year has passed since we first felt the impacts of COVID-19. Unfortunately, for many people the struggle continues and I want you to know that your city is here to help.
Pinal County community vaccine teams have administered 132,239 doses of COVID-19 vaccines.
A friendly reminder that the state-run COVID19 vaccine sites and some federal pharmacy programs are …
I am really irritated when I look at the “Independent” and see photos of students who have achieved, but they are all wearing masks.
That is so silly. Can we not see the faces of these …
Edward Snowden is a martyr. I have recently learned that misdeeds of government officials are nearly impossible to expose. I learned this by reading Edward Snowden’s book “Permanent …
This past weekend, several of Surprise’s teens came together to give the Surprise Bicentennial Park’s Restroom a fresh painting of an old mural from 9 years ago.
While I remain an advocate for precautions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including mask wearing, this can no longer be a legal requirement in the city of Mesa, based on Gov. Doug Ducey’s …
This year, while the federal tax deadline has been extended, Arizona state taxes must still be filed by April 15, unless you’ve filed an extension, in which case they are due Oct. 15, 2021. …
Remember when the abortion industry grieved the deaths of women performing their own abortions in back alleys? It was a battle cry for legal abortion throughout the country that eventually led to the U.S. Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade.
Happy March, District 3 neighbors.
There are few places better than Mesa, Arizona, in March. The weather is beautiful, spring is in the air and we have exciting things happening in our …
Recently, I read an article about two entrepreneurs who were opening a new restaurant and they laughed at themselves for picking this time to go into business but, in reality, it is a great time to …
Alzheimer’s disease has robbed 82-year-old Brendan “Eamon” Treanor of day-to-day memories. Yet he can vividly recall his childhood in tiny Monaghan, Ireland, where he went to school, played soccer and lived on a street called St. Patrick’s Terrace.
SUSD proudly declares it provides “Education Excellence” because its “average scores exceed Arizona standards at all levels.”
However, they fail to also point out that …
I first became aware, well, vaguely aware, that fear lurked in the background of my behavior when, as a pre-teen, my mom chided me for being “too timid.”
Standardized testing season can be a stressful time for students even under normal circumstances.
But, during a pandemic? Students will need every edge they can get.
Just as schools have had to …
Way back in 1931, Winston Churchill predicted the rise of cultured meat. For those who don’t know, this revolutionary protein is grown from animal cells without slaughter.
It has only …
We need to establish the standard for immigration into this country under federal law if we are to understand the severe detrimental impact we have suffered due to this abrogation of responsibility by Congress regarding this issue for the past 40 years.
I live in Sun City near 99th Avenue and Royal Oak.
We say no to short-term rentals.
The reason is because we bought homes in Sun City to retire and relax in a quite, clean, maintained …
A big thank you for all the AARP tax volunteers for your time and patience in getting the seniors’ returns done.
There were a few inpatient people wanting to know why their returns were not …
It was only a matter of time before Americans would find themselves wearing face masks. I manufacture face masks and understand that while not everyone wants to wear them, they are a necessity in a pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic has cast a bright light on the need to educate the public with facts to ensure that people can take the right measures to increase their chances of health and longevity.
More …
Short-term rentals (aka Airbnb or vrbo) are businesses and don’t belong in residential zones (“Short-term rentals on hot seat”). This shouldn’t be complicated, it is a zoning …
It was only a matter of time before Americans would find themselves wearing facemasks.
I manufacture facemasks and understand that while not everyone wants to wear them, they are a necessity in a …
This is my first time taking action like this but as a Sun City homeowner I have concerns as well.
We are for the time being winter visitors in Sun City. We bought our home at market value about …
President Joe Biden is acting fast to tackle the health and economic crises that greeted him on inauguration day. The first 100 days of any new presidency are critical, all the more so when facing a …
As I have talked about with Rec Centers of Sun City West General Manager Bill Schwind on my Rec Center Show on 103.1 KSCW Radio, while we have learned a lot about COVID-19 and the vaccines, there is still much more to learn and to be careful about.
There are more than 2,100 community cancer centers just like Ruth’s across the country — many located outside of urban centers. For decades, these centers — and their multidisciplinary staff — have played an integral role in helping Americans fight cancer. Unfortunately, fulfilling their mission is about to get harder — as is life for patients.
Welcome to the second in a series of articles authored by committee members of The Town of Paradise Valley Historical Advisory Committee.
The mission of the advisory committee is to, …
Spring break is coming up for students across Arizona, and while it’s certainly going to be different than in recent years, many Arizona residents may still be planning to travel on our state’s highways.
The top priority of your City Council is preparing a 2035 General Plan, to be put before the voters this November.
Scottsdale hasn’t had an updated plan since 2001. It’s a complex …
Heads up. Scottsdale’s newly seated City Council’s first order of business is to agonize over proposed updates to the city’s General Plan via a series of work study sessions …
Few things are more frustrating for a homeowner than dripping faucets, weak water pressure, or a running toilet.
Not only does a faulty plumbing system serve as an inconvenience to you and your …
It is time to move beyond asking what responsibility former President Trump bears for the attacks on our Capitol building on Jan. 6. That question has now been answered.
The article on the front page says a first-term legislator convinced other lawmakers in our State House to ignore mask mandates.
It wasn’t a lawmaker, politician or president who created …
This time last year, most of us had heard rumblings about COVID-19 – but at the time, it seemed so far away. Little did we know it would become a global pandemic that would bring about …
Queen Creek, like many other communities, was impacted by the devastation of COVID-19. To help offset some of the impacts of COVID-19, the Town took a series of steps to support our local businesses. …
If ever a name conjured up stories of former times and dastardly deeds, it’s Two Guns, an abandoned town on Interstate 40 with more tales of the Wild West than a saguaro cactus has needles. …
There has been a lot of recent attention on the expansion of gaming through sports betting and other mechanisms. I am genuinely concerned that in this rush to expand gaming, our leaders are …
Responsible tourism is critical to our state’s economy, and in the wake of COVID-19, we can’t afford to enact policies that would cripple recovery efforts. But Rep. Kavanagh has proposed …
If anything has shaped a theme for this school year, aside from the obvious of teaching and keeping school safe in a pandemic, it’s the phrase “the only constant is change.”
All …
Mr. Hildebrand: What can I say but “There are none so blind as those who will not see.”
The willful ignorance on the part of the short-term rental industry about the very real …
When the U.S. government initiated efforts in 2018 to reduce recidivism in federal prisons, the aim was to end the cycle that makes many inmates repeat offenders. To achieve that goal, inmates would …
A lot have been written about both organizations, most of it wrong. Let’s start with the Oath Keepers. If you believe the media, they are a “right-wing, white supremacist, anti-government …
The STR industry is in trouble. People are rising up to save their neighborhoods and are demanding meaningful restrictions on STRs.
State and local governments are responding to peoples’ …
Watch out for the big lies being told about small businesses.
I’m talking about opponents of vacation rentals. They’re happy to blame these properties for everything from crime to COVID-19 to the rising price of housing.
Aargh. Why is the easy/simple always corrupted into the hard/complicated? Of course, I am talking about masks.
In a supermarket I was subjected to a conversation with a total stranger who wore her …
By all accounts, Arizona has had a rough time through the COVID-19 pandemic. A staggering loss of more than 15,000 Arizonans, punctuated by devastating economic and mental health impacts, left our …
A nearly 40-page study publicly released on March 1 by well-known and highly respected Arizona economic and real estate analysis firm Elliott Pollack and Co. (“Pollack”) explains that …
It’s hard to believe that we have been navigating the coronavirus for more than a year. Much has changed since then. Many of us are working remotely, our kids are learning virtually, and we are …
The city of Surprise Parks and Recreation Department is offering Spring Break Camp March 15-19 from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Sierra Montana Recreation Center, located at 14861 N. Spring Lane.
America's memory of the 1991 Gulf War has faded, but we must remember the 697,000 U.S. veterans who drove the Iraqi army from Kuwait 30 years ago this month -- especially the one in four who lost their health to toxic exposures serving their country. That country refuses to care for them.
Related:NPR "Here and Now."
https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2021/02/23/gulf-war-illness
COVID-19 has dominated the medical space for the last year. As we continued to learn more about the coronavirus, we learned that people with underlying conditions like diabetes and obesity are more …
Following the ruling issued Friday by Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Timothy Thomason — which affirms the subpoenas issued by Arizona Senate Republicans calling for the release of the …
One of my new favorite places in Surprise is Venue Taproom. They are a fantastic new restaurant located in the Uptown Alley Parking lot at Litchfield and Waddell roads.
This morning there was a message on my landline phone from someone who was obviously very upset about getting phone calls, perhaps multiple times from the same number.
After listening to this …
Once in a while an opportunity occurs where two issues that seem to be on divergent tracts instead find themselves perfectly aligned.
Scottsdale has one such issue right now, a project in its …
I would like to correct Carolyn Copeland’s letter (“Reader says Trump was never impeached”) in which she continues to assert that Donald Trump was never impeached.
In the first …
Community partner and public health vaccine teams are continuing to vaccinate with shipments received this week. A new site is available on the ADHS dashboard that indicates how many people have been …
Call me biased, but I am confident I can convince anyone that Arizona is one of the most scenic states in the country. So, with spring just around the corner, I want to encourage you to lace up your …
Did you know that one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers in the United States is colorectal cancer?
In fact, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the …
I just read on the internet that, “A judge will determine whether the Arizona Senate has the authority to subpoena ballots, tabulation machines and other equipment and data from Maricopa County …
There are so many reasons to be proud to live in the Grand Canyon State — from the “five Cs” I taught to my grade school students to the awe-inspiring scenery that makes us a …
Residents of Gold Canyon gathered Thursday, Feb. 18, at Congressman Paul Gosar’s district office on Kings Ranch Road in protest of his role in the Jan. 6 violent attack on the Capitol.
The …
Democrats should include federal funding for cultured-meat research in their coronavirus relief bill.
For readers who aren’t aware, cultured meat is grown from cells, without slaughter. …
Dear Senator Mesnard:
Reference: SB1379 — I would like to meet with either you or your staff on SB1379 the important short term rental issue, and fixes to make SB1379 a better bill.
As a …
I have had two of my vehicles damaged in parking lots in the past few months, once at the Ace Hardware and once at Home Depot, costing me over $2,000 in repairs. The people responsible drove off each …
February is the most romantic month of the year. Hopefully Valentine’s Day brought a smile to everyone’s face — even though we still can’t see those beautiful smiles.
Having lived in Sun City since 2004, I have seen and heard much that is good and some not so good.
I have noticed the last few months that we seem to have a lot of WCBM going on. Also, that the …
The stock market is one of the benchmarks for every U.S. presidency. Voters often look at how stocks performed during a president’s four-year term as one of the criteria for reelection.
I am appealing for your help.
On Feb. 5, the yard that houses Northwest Valley Connect vehicles along with vehicles belonging to Transdev was broken into and vandalized. We lost the operations of …
The Knights of Columbus Councils are remarkably busy in providing monetary and voluntary man-hour assistance to those in need.
The Knights of Columbus is a very worthwhile organization. If you …
House Bill 2772 would expand off-reservation gambling but would turn over control to the Arizona State Department of Gaming. Bad idea. If we are to expand legal gambling, it should be regulated by …
Political acrimony makes easy, familiar headlines. But a confluence of events is presenting a real chance for meaningful bipartisan accomplishments. It will be a tragedy if we — as a nation, as a society — let it pass.
With many people still facing financial difficulties related to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s good to know there are programs available to help in 2021.
In response to the recent article (“County Supervisors still facing threats,” Daily Independent, Feb. 15, 2020), I cannot believe what is going on in our Arizona Senate.
Why are the …
Arizona’s mountainous terrain is as beautiful to look at as it is to drive through, but keeping dirt from those slopes off roadways can pose a technical challenge.
By continuing to make Selective Service registration and draft eligibility apply only to men, the Coalition for Men is arguing that the system is violating Constitutional rights of men by sex …
As we continue to face the challenges of COVID-19, we are also learning more about the virus itself, and new ways to defend ourselves from its detrimental and sometimes lingering side effects. …
This is a case of tax dollars well spent.
My wife and I recently made three trips to State Farm Stadium for her first and my pair of COVID-19 vaccine shots. The entire experience goes against the …
Tens of millions of children watched last month as Joe Biden swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Yet more and more of America’s schools are grooming their students to do just the opposite.
The Phoenix VA hospital is doing a good job.
Dennis Fossey is a Vietnam veteran and a member of the American Legion Post 94 in Sun City West. He serves as their financial officer and is a member …
Last year was a difficult year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept through our country, impacting families and communities nationwide. The health challenges of the pandemic also provided a crucial reminder about the importance of health care
Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema should support public funding for cultured-meat research, with the goal of making the cell-grown, slaughter-free protein competitive with factory-farmed …
Being the transportation geeks that we are, we get excited about a lot of things: Box culverts, Bid-Wells, bridge girders, etc. And that’s just the Bs! But if we moved down into the Cs, we find something else that makes us excited that we think you will like too: cameras.
In partnership with the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, I’ve directed Recorder’s Office staff to provide the two independent auditors everything needed to complete a thorough review of the tabulation software and hardware used in the 2020 elections.
There has been a lot in the news about the State Senate’s efforts to audit the 2020 general election. But the recent filing in Superior Court by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors seems like one more effort to win not in court, but in the court of public opinion.
COVID-19 has disrupted multiple aspects of daily life, including how people access dental care. That’s in part because many dental offices closed during the early part of the pandemic, and …
I’m familiar with the 75th Avenue interchange along Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) in the northwest Valley. Not because I live in the area. I have a friend who did and he always roped me into hauling off junk because I owned a pickup truck.
This is really simple. Arizona GOP senators have been complicit in a big lie about the election for three months now. This sham subpoena to get access to people’s private ballots is all in service of the big lie.
Staying well requires a strong, balanced immune system combined with reducing exposure to pathogens. Vitamin D is critical to each step of our immune response.
There are so many reasons to be proud to live in the Grand Canyon State — from the “five c’s” I taught to my grade school students to the awe-inspiring scenery that makes us a …
Many know there is a direct connection between what we put into our mouths and our heart health. But did you know that the health of your mouth itself is directly connected to heart health? …
Our town’s elected mayor and councilmembers need to exhibit leadership, ethics, and honor our town’s Code of Conduct. I am one of your Town Council members committed to serving residents …
This letter is in response to a letter (“Resident upset with inverted U.S. Flag”) relating to our flag being flown upside down.
It very well may be that the resident was in compliance …
I’ve seen a lot of comments on social media concerning churches. A lot of the comments center around the desire to tax churches.
One of the main reasons churches aren’t taxed is …
The new social media platform Clubhouse has been making waves in recent weeks. Some industry experts are saying it might be the next major social media platform. So, I was eager to accept my invitation to join and see what all the fuss is about.
We often associate the month of February with acts of love.
Cards, dinners, flowers and chocolates are given to those we value. As leaders, it’s important to show the love by demonstrating …
Believe it or not, your rights listed in the Bill of Rights are absolute. I know, you have been told otherwise. The government has no Constitutional authority to touch our rights ... none.
The …
On Wednesday, the Arizona State Senate Judiciary Chairman Warren Petersen, with the blessing of Senate President Karen Fann, crafted a floor resolution to hold the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in contempt of the Senate for not turning over the 2.1 million ballots cast in Maricopa County during the 2020 election.
The city of Surprise has experienced better-than-expected one-time revenues in Fiscal Year 2020 thanks to strong growth in housing permits and retail sales collections.
This is Environment Week at the State Capitol, and I want to highlight some of the bills that I have introduced this session to help Arizona deal with climate change.
Arizona is the most …
Doctors from Abrazo hospitals are reminding everyone to use caution when planning those Big Game watch parties this weekend — don’t let it become a super spreader event.
I hope our future will get better now that vaccines are available; it’ll take time for the distribution to reach all parts of the country, which means we’ll need some patience.
Innovation today for a post-COVID future is not an opportunity, but rather a necessity. Everything has changed from the way we socialize, shop and work to how we enjoy entertainment and receive health care.
EPCOR has received a $250,000 grant from the Water Management Assistance Program at the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR), important funding that will help a group of agricultural and …
This past week I was reading a new book by Jon Fasman, the digital editor of the Economist. His book, We See It All, is a review of surveillance and local police departments.
While reading I …
During the past year, so many individuals have felt isolated and extremely lonely due to the pandemic.
According to the National Academics of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, more than …
COVID-19 has disrupted multiple aspects of daily life, including how people access dental care. That’s in part because many dental offices closed during the early part of the pandemic, and some people have stayed away since.
Chris Tracy wrote to the editor (“Why no COVID tests, shots in Sun City?”) complaining there was no place in Sun City to get a COVID test.
Banner and Safeway were not the designated …
By refusing to recognize the results of a certified election and supporting allegations without evidence Congressman Paul Gosar encouraged the insurrectionists and seditionists on Jan. 6 to disrupt a …
In her letter (“Resident upset with inverted U.S. flag,”), Sun City West resident Mary Arnot comes across as if the world has ended because a neighbor decided they want to express their …
Westmarc is focusing on reaching California’s brokerage and young talent communities. Californians have always been moving to Arizona. This is not new to our state. But increasingly, people and companies are making the value-based decision to relocate to Arizona.
Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema should support reallocating the billions of dollars a year in subsidies the federal government gives to animal-exploitation industries to cultured-meat …
As we approach Valentine’s Day, I’m prompted to ask: Are all romantic relationships love? Where did we discover our conceptualizations of romantic love? I grew up on tales of Prince Charming and Cinderella, which shaped my view of romantic love.
Our own Sen. Kelly Townsend (R-District 16) has sponsored a resolution (SCR1010) that asks voters to amend the Arizona Constitution to require the legislature to go into a special session for the …
Governor Ducey’s new budget proposal includes a $1.2 billion tax cut spread over the next three years.
This idea, especially when added to the loss of revenue from Prop. 123 expiring soon, …
One of the great things about Arizona is snow is just an hour or two away by vehicle. But it’s important to resist the urge to just jump in the car and go instead of leaving prepared.
I strongly disagree with the opinions Debby Phillips expressed in her recent Letter to the Editor (“Resident not happy with impeach banner,” Daily Independent, Jan. 16, 2021).
I can …
Arizona’s highways can seem pretty desolate at times, miles upon miles of emptiness.
Then, in the distance, you see it, a much-needed spot to pull over, gas up and perk up before hitting …
I have to ask the question that many people have asked in the past about Pelosi and Schumer, and that is when are these two going represent their constituents?
They have spent the last four years …
There are a handful of days in our history that reverberate across generations, defining the story of America. Jan. 6, 2021 — the date insurrectionists attacked the heart of our democracy to stop the orderly peaceful transfer of power — will be one of those days.
A logo can say everything.
It can describe and inform. It can be picturesque or profound. It can be full of color or bathed in black and white.
In the end, all logos serve one purpose: They …
Important questions remain about how the passage of Prop. 207, Arizona’s recreational marijuana initiative, will impact existing co-parenting plans as well as divorce and child custody cases. …
In a letter to the editor (“Resident not happy with impeach banner”) Ms. Debby Phillips expressed displeasure at seeing a banner that read, “Impeach Trump, Make America Great …
Singer Jim Croce longed to put time in a bottle. Retirees aren’t always certain what it is they long to do with time, but one day they stop working and find they have a barrelful of it.
On Jan. 19, 2021, on the eve of what we all hoped will be a peaceful transition of power to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, I walked in my neighborhood in Sun City West.
This …
In his run for the presidency, Joe Biden laid out a “Plan for Older Americans” that reflected the Democratic party philosophy that health care and living with dignity after retirement are an inalienable right for all.
As a result of President Trump’s recent controversial statements and — especially since the riots at the US Capitol — there have been many concerns expressed in the media, such as …
2020 taught us a lot, and as the clock struck midnight New Year’s Eve, perhaps we all gave thanks we made it to 2021 with our health intact and with a renewed focus on maintaining it.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the growing inequalities in our world, country, state, and city. With crisis, however, comes opportunity and the challenge to tackle the racial, economic, …
With the hope of a new start at a new year, it seems clear that the coronavirus has also made a New Year’s resolution to persevere with a vengeance and stick around and mutate.
A new year brings new resolutions for many and those New Year’s resolutions could also lead to some health benefits.
According to a report published in JAMA, “setting resolutions …
What do you think Arizona’s K-12 schools will look like in 2031? Does the prospect excite or dishearten you? After a year of countless hardships for families, we could use some positivity.
With the approval of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, the major tasks are now distribution and vaccination. Developing the vaccines has been a technological marvel, but until we get shots in the arms of 80% of the population, the COVID-19 pandemic will not be aborted.
Be careful when dealing with online mortgage companies. Many of these companies like LendingTree and Paymybills.com are not mortgage companies, but marketing companies intending on selling your …
The advent of COVID-19 vaccinations is a positive step in the pandemic fight. While more vaccination sites are opening and eligibility for receiving the vaccine is increasing, below are a few basics to know during the vaccine rollout.
In a 4-3 decision with important consequences for online privacy in Arizona, the state’s highest court ruled Jan. 11 that the Arizona Constitution’s “private affairs” clause does not protect individual rights any more than the federal Constitution.
The United States Supreme Court isn't merely one of America's most important institutions, it is also one of the most important elements of our constitutional system of checks and balances, not to …
This is in response to Norman Webb’s letter (“Do not force your opinions on others").
I read your response to a previous letter about the use of the term Happy Holidays. As I read it, …
2020 taught us a lot, and as the clock struck midnight New Year’s Eve, perhaps we all gave thanks we made it to 2021 with our health intact and with a renewed focus on maintaining it.
While …
For many of us, thinking about renewing our driver license rarely crosses our mind. Sure, we update it with a new address when we move, and some change their name after getting married, but the first time most of us will actually renew our driver license is when we turn 65 years old.
Anyone who wants to build a better American future has to recognize that our problems cannot be solved by partisan politics. Washington today is completely out of whack.
We have lots of media attention recently to the problem of housing the homeless. Local nonprofits are studying the issue with seminars and research reports. But nearly all these efforts focus on the …
Last year was a harrowing time in America’s rich and complicated history. Our great nation was faced with a novel coronavirus and an old, deeply ingrained racial disease aching for healing and remedy.
Many of us are doing home repairs these days. For the repairs that we can’t do on our own, we have to hire someone to do it for us. Then we end up asking ourselves the question, where do I …
There is an early warning sign that high-demand jobs may be hard to fill when the labor market fully reopens, even with millions of Americans looking for work.
If President-elect Joe Biden is serious about addressing climate change, preventing future outbreaks of zoonotic disease, or minimizing animal cruelty on factory farms, he should support the nascent …
A study in California revealed that the cost of capital punishment in the state has been over $4 billion since it was reinstated in 1978. Since California has executed 13 prisoners during that time, …
When I was being interviewed for my current job (I’m the pastor of a Sun City West church) the call committee chairman told me, “The most dangerous place to drive is the parking lot at …
On Jan. 7 the nation watched in horror the breach and sacking of the United States Capitol building by unlawful acts of breaking and entering. The violence witnessed illustrated the vast ideological divide in our country and the enormous need for leadership from the top to heal our nation.
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. …
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 …
It’s tempting these days to believe that once COVID-19 is contained, the U.S. economy will bounce back quickly, replenishing jobs and incomes lost in the pandemic. Yet there is an early warning …
At the recent Pinal County Board of Supervisors meeting, the head of public health gave a presentation on the COVID-19 vaccination program.
The facts presented: 10,000 doses allocated by the end …
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 …
I’m always thinking about the future and attempt to glean from the ethers what will happen next. It’s easier to predict the future when you create it, so the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce has taken new action to make sure the future of our community is bright.
How do you pick a single theme for beautifying the 22-mile Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway? That was the question facing the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Roadside Development Section once work began on the new $2 billion freeway.
Well a big shout out to my constituents in District 1, and indeed every resident in this great city in which we are lucky to live in, and a happy and safe New Year to all.
Never in my lifetime have we lived during a more consequential and threatening challenge than today in both our civic and our personal lives.
Your federal-legislator counterparts in Washington are …
Alleged irregularities surrounding the 2020 election have many deeply skeptical of the reported results. This skepticism is unhealthy for our republic and if not checked will further erode trust in our government institutions.
In response to the letter from the reader who made election and voting claims, thank you, Daily Independent, for printing the correct facts at the end of her letter.
There is so much …
I know that the Sun Cities lean Republican, and Kevin Payne ran an uncontested race for the state senate so he feels that he can ignore Democratic residents in District 21 with impunity.
Still, I …
A new eight-acre park at Greenway Road and Parkview Place will begin design in June of 2021. This new park will provide more programmable and rental field space.
In addition to the new park, …
Back in the early spring of 2020 (how long ago does that seem now?), the coronavirus pandemic arrived on the shores of the U.S., bringing with it a plethora of state and county lockdowns, and the …
Women are the majority of Americans as well as the majority of voters. What does that mean in practical terms? How did that play out in the November 2020 elections? A record-breaking number of women …
Mr. Barry Spinka (“Resident not happy to hear driveway music”), you really are the Grinch of Sun City.
I can’t even believe that you wrote this letter about our driveway concert …
The city of Surprise has experienced better-than-expected one-time revenues in Fiscal Year 2020 thanks to strong growth in housing permits and retail sales collections.
COVID-19 took a heavy toll on the U.S. economy in 2020, causing millions of job losses and forcing many businesses to close. It also affected lots of retirement plans in the process.
As this year comes to an end for the current Apache Junction City Council I’d like to say congratulations and welcome to our newly elected Councilmembers Kelly Gremmel, Braden Biggs and Tess …
Regarding your recent letter, (“In response to complaints in Sun City,” Daily Independent, De, 23, 2020), I was born and raised in Glendale, Mr. Foulke. Been in Sun City 15 years. …
I’m writing to call out Scottsdale Unified School District board members Jann-Michael Greenburg and Barbara Perleberg for their opposition to the anti-vaping resolution as reported by Delarita …
As vice president of philanthropic services for Jewish Family & Children’s Service, I have the rare privilege of working with individuals and families who transform others’ lives.
Our little company was one of the pioneers of non-profit ownership of newspapers. Fifty years ago, we made a few decisions that were, in retrospect, pretty unusual.
To protect their independence, …
One of my favorite songs as a teenager was “Only Shades of Gray.” It was more than the harmony; the lyrics of the song drove a deeper message into my youthful psyche. I remember it …
Every community seems to have those little hidden gems that folks aren’t really aware of. I’d like to share a couple right here in Apache Junction that truly deserve to be recognized and …
Many are looking forward to turning the calendar to 2021.
This year has brought us challenges and issues we could never have imagined, and there are many reasons to want to put 2020 in the …
I met Jesse Ramirez, Valley View Community Food Bank founder and director, a year ago and am constantly amazed at how much he does with so little.
I have a suggestion for all of us that can make …
Jason Whitlock, a journalist and writer, makes the case that the most important part of the election was that hate won over love. Trump voters voted for Trump because they loved him, even with all of …
Nicaragua, Panama, Belize, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, Pakistan, Egypt, Cambodia, Burma, etc. received several billions in the new COVID “relief” bill and the American people get …
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 …
Beginning January 1, 2021 the use of portable communication devices while driving will become a violation of civil traffic statutes for which law enforcement officers may issue a citation.
Pinal County is a county where people need to wear masks.
I had the COVID-19 virus. I am still recovering.
You guys are not following the rules. These people need to wear a mask.
I got the …
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 …
The Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 today to direct its attorneys to respond to the subpoenas issued by the Arizona Legislature by filing a complaint in Superior Court.
The two subpoenas …
This building in Washington, D.C., houses all documents of our history, both the good and the bad.
Our founding documents are on protected display inside the main entrance area: The Declaration of …
We are all excited about the COVID-19 vaccines and the daily updates on the effort to get it to us.
However, what is missing is how we will actually sit in a chair and have it administered. All I …
As COVID-19 cases climb again around the country, people may be considering skipping visits to the doctor to reduce risk of exposure to the virus. But the decision to delay preventive screenings like …
The Independent reported recently that our Southwest Valley friends claim a proposed solar energy facility will block their view of an ancient cinder-cone volcano (“Southwest Valley residents …
Throughout the COVID-19 response, the Arizona Department of Health Services has continually reevaluated how we are collecting, analyzing and presenting COVID-19 data for cases, hospitalizations, and …
Mark Carlisle wrote a recent article (“Spend it or lose it: Phoenix doles out remaining $43 million in coronavirus relief before Dec. 30 deadline,” Daily Independent, Dec. 12, 2020). In …
As a founding member of the Arizona Human Rights Fund, which has now morphed into Equality Arizona, I have always worked on the issues that have been at the forefront of the LGBTQ …
I just spoke with Rep. Lesko’s D.C. office after receiving a non-response email to my simple election inquiry. I posed a simple yes-or-no question as to whether Joe Biden is our president …
The most magical thing about the holidays is the way we so joyfully give to others. Not just our friends and families — but to complete strangers who are in need.
I respectfully request that Congress pass the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act, H.R. 5434/S. 2602, in 2020.
The bipartisan RPM Act protects the right to convert an automobile or …
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 …
About two months back, you wrote an article about lack of pools in Surprise. In that article you stated for a community of 1,000 homes the additional cost would be $10 per month.
For many people, life as they knew it has been put on hold due to the restrictions we all must adhere to with COVID-19.
The days of waiting patiently for life to return to “normal” …
On R.H. Johnson Boulevard driving home from the store at about 4:30 p.m. with my son the other day, we noticed a pickup sitting half on the sidewalk with its flashers blinking.
As we got closer we …
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s latest research finds drivers who have been in at least one crash in the past two years are significantly more likely to engage in risky behaviors like speeding or texting, even when they think the police may catch them.
The 2020-21 flu season is on track to be one of the worst in years, and with COVID-19 still running rampant in Arizona, being infected with both could be dangerous.
I know, I know ... you are sick and tired of hearing about, talking about or being afraid of the COVID virus and I agree with you. But, there are real solutions to this, if you can give me a few …
The strength of a building is in its foundation.
The same is true with small business in a community. If small businesses are healthy and prospering, job, schools and lifestyle are unique, healthy and burgeoning.
With the proliferation of clinics that offer vein treatment, how do you choose the one that is right for you? And, do you really know what condition your veins are in?
This year has been dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although we’ve had a lot to worry about, and many of us have put our lives on hold this past year because of it, I wanted to discuss …
Why haven’t the top U.S. health officials been educating the American populace that our immune systems are the first source of protection from viruses and COVID?
A huge number of us are …
There are many impacts that the holidays can have on COVID-19 in Arizona. With people traveling and gathering with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, we anticipate the cases and the need for hospitalizations to continue to increase over the next few weeks.
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 …
My wife and I have been residents of Scottsdale for just under a year. We are a law enforcement family from New York who relocated to AZ — after unfortunate years in Los Angeles.
We have …
I have an idea for an addition to your weekly newspapers that would make it more enjoyable and would make more people read it.
In my neighborhood magazine, they always feature someone who has done …
The third annual AJ Prayer Walk will be held Jan. 9. This year’s event will be centered on the Bible verse 2 John 1:6, “And this is love; that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you …
One way is through adoption. While there are several categories of adoptable children, at Aid to Adoption of Special Kids we focus on the adoption of children in the Arizona foster care …
Over the years, we have delved into our archives to bring you photographs from a lot of times and places. From grading a road with mules to the Highway Hawk’s appearances at events to a …
I recently had the opportunity to tour the City of Surprise’s new Public Works Operations Facility. The facility was partially funded by the voter-approved 2017 General Obligation Bond. This …
If you receive a benefit verification letter, sometimes called a “budget letter,” a “benefits letter,” a “proof of income letter,” or a “proof of award letter,” we have good news for you.
The recent passing of Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek has sparked a flood of tributes for him and the game show itself.
Former contestants and celebrities who’ve competed there have shared …
As 2020 draws to a close, I wanted to take this last opportunity of the year to publicly thank you — the residents of Surprise — for your patience and support this trying year.
With millions unemployed and numerous industries struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic, some people who are out of work are considering a new career.
Every business in the country has been impacted by COVID-19 in one way or another.
But few sectors have been as hard hit, or face a longer road to recovery, than the travel agency industry. …
The annual Apache Junction Police Department toy drive could use a little assistance from the community this year.
In the past the AJPD has worked with the W Steven Martin 911 Toy Drive to …
Due to rising COVID-19 case numbers, city of Surprise City Council and all city boards and commissions meetings have been reclosed to in-person attendance until further notice.
After reading your letter in the Independent on Nov. 28, 2020, I just have one thing to say — ”Mr. Megee, mind your own business.”
There is no reason whatsoever to wear a mask …
To protect public health amidst rising COVID-19 cases, beginning Dec. 1, and until further notice, city of Surprise public meetings will close to in-person attendance.
As a resident of Goodyear during the past five years, I have seen the amazing growth throughout this community. That growth demonstrates the highly desirable environment in the city.
Thank you for your article (“Street racers invade Sun City”) regarding street racers.
I have not seen or heard the racers but am struck by another part of the article. Specifically, …
You may have seen this message on our digital message boards statewide: “Fender Bender? Save your rear, Quickly clear.” It was a reminder to move your vehicle safely onto a shoulder or exit and stay out of travel lanes if involved in a minor crash.
About Rita Venice’s recent letter (“Calls fraud allegations ‘clap-trap’”, Daily Independent, Nov. 24, 2020): many of the “down ballots” voting turned a …
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. …
America is dealing with an unprecedented shortage of skilled labor. The Department of Labor reports while there are 7.6 million unfilled jobs, only 6.5 million people were looking for work. This is …
Jack Hawn in his letter (“Says it’s over, Trump lost election,” Nov. 19, 2020) wants the Trump supporters to take down our signs and flags — really Jack? The election has not, …
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 …
In recent days, constituents of District 2, candidates for office, state lawmakers and congressmen have asked questions and made statements regarding Maricopa County’s voting system, hand counts, recounts and legal challenges.
The holidays are a time of celebrations, time spent with family and friends, and a festive and colorful time of year. For some older adults, it can be a time of extreme loneliness and depression, especially this year with COVID-19 still looming.
This is a response to Roy Miller’s recent letter (“Says voting a privilege, not a right,” Nov. 19, 2020). I didn’t wish to respond, but there is need to correct his statement …
When I sat down with my family to discuss my intention to run for the governing board in 2016 and then run for re-election in 2020, I continued to reflect on the influence that public education has …
Despite the United States tallying more than a million new cases of COVID-19 last week alone, congressional leaders appear in no rush to approve a new package of financial relief for businesses and …
Newly elected Arizona Corporation Commissioner Lea Marquez Peterson wants APS to slash its rates, but she is dreaming if she thinks she can accomplish this, even with her eight suggestions for the …
In response to the letter written by someone from the Surprise Chamber of Commerce, the headline reads the “Chamber wants politicians to focus on relief.” The letter then lists several …
The recent passing of "Jeopardy" host Alex Trebec has sparked a flood of tributes for him and the game show itself. Former contestants and celebrities who've competed there have shared numerous …
Editor's note: This opinion appeared on No Labels NoLabels.org, a national organization working to revive bipartisanship and to move Washington beyond gridlock to solutions to challenges faced …
I’ve been watching the stories on the auctioned property.
It just blew me away, the amount that was agreed upon.
I’ve never known any builder that could possibly come up with that …
During the fall months, drivers face an increased risk of animal-related crashes as deer and other wildlife begin to migrate and find their way onto highways and into suburban neighborhoods.
Members of the Board of Supervisors continue to hear from government leaders and the public about the integrity of Maricopa County elections. We want to assure you that proper steps have been taken to ensure a full and accurate count of all votes.
A few weeks ago I received a picture of a bird. The caption read: It doesn’t make any difference whether it is a left wing or a right wing, it is the same bird!
Put this in another …
It’s a question as old as transportation itself: How are we going to get across that? Whether it be a river, creek, wash, arroyo, canyon or crevice, getting a vehicle from one side to the other is a prime concern when it comes to building roads.
The Northwest Valley Connect Mobility Program continues to go forward with a ride solution for many seniors, people experiencing disabilities, and veterans residing independently in West Valley communities who lack access to public transportation.
If Sens. Kyrsten Sinema and Martha McSally care about the environment, they should support federal funding for cultured-meat research.
For those who don’t know, cultured meat is grown from …
The familiar joke, “Why did the chicken cross the road?,” has been around for many years. It really wasn’t meant to be funny, but it did provide the answer, “To get to the …
As a lifelong Republican, I praised President Trump’s court appointments, deregulation, and tax cuts; but I also criticized him when he was wrong on issues like tariffs and the national debt. …
The holidays can be challenging for anyone — but that’s especially true if you are grieving the loss of a loved one. Sadness can magnify the stress of the season. Instead of excitement …
I can only hope that the powers that be will make sure that first to receive the vaccine will be our first responders, EMTs, firemen, police and all medical front-line people, doctors, nurses and all …
As a lifelong Republican, I praised President Trump’s court appointments, deregulation, and tax cuts but I also criticized him when he was wrong on issues like tariffs and the national …
According to the media, Joe Biden has been elected president of the U.S. I guess I wasn’t paying attention in school because I don’t remember being taught that is the way our country …
![Stroke survivor and Buckeye resident Stephanie Flynn poses with her family. [Courtesy of Abrazo Health]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210506-173509-050721%20op%20Stephanie%20Flynn%20commentary.jpg)
![Arizona motorists have been crossing the Salt River via this scenic bridge along State Route 288 in Gila County since 1920. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210504-161201-050521%20op%20Kathy%20Cline%20commentary.jpg)
![Aaron Rodgers [The Associated Press]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210503-165859-AP21054198199043.jpg)
![Officials announced the reopening of State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake in the White Mountains, pictured, along with other routes in the area. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210427-170620-042821%20op%20David%20Rookhuyzen%20commentary.jpg)
![Hospice of the Valley veteran patient Kenneth Hamrick, left, and volunteer Ron Garner salute each other. [Courtesy of Hospice of the Valley]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210421-175007-042221%20op%20Lin%20Sue%20Cooney%20commentary.jpg)
![Demetra Presley [VoyagePhoenix.com]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210416-184330-personal_photo-51-1000x600.jpeg)
![The Arizona Department of Transportation recommends making special preparations whenever traveling in Arizona during hot weather. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210407-172617-040821%20op%20Doug%20Nintzel%20commentary.jpg)
![U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) Friday, Feb. 26, 2021 in Orlando, Fla. [The Associated Press]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210405-164731-AP21091603170839%20%281%29.jpg)
![Surprise resident Ken Money is an advocate for his son and other autistic children. [Submitted photo]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210405-163708-040621%20op%20Ken%20Money%20commentary.png.jpg)
![Arizona Department of Transportation crews work on the Meteor Crater and Two Guns bridge deck replacement and rehabilitation project on Interstate 40 east of Flagstaff. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210331-182810-040121%20op%20Laurie%20Merrill%20ADOT%20commentary.jpg)
![A portion of the Bush fire burns through the Tonto National Forest on Tuesday, June 16, 2020, as seen from Apache Junction. [The Associated Press]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210324-172530-032521%20op%20Kathy%20Cline%20ADOT%20commentary.jpg)
![Eamon and Pat Treanor spot familiar landmarks in his hometown of Monaghan, Ireland as Hospice of the Valley social worker Callie Dettinger shares the video from Flight to Remember, which takes hospice patients on virtual memory tours. [Courtesy of Hospice of the Valley]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210322-163536-032321%20op%20Lin%20Sue%20Cooney%20commentary.jpg)
![Leonard Kirschner poses near the precipice during a pre-pandemic visit to Grand Canyon National Park. [Courtesy of the Kirschner family]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210225-181716-022621%20op%20Leonard%20Kirschner%20commentary.JPG)
![Hospice of the Valley social worker Erin Butler worked with Valley Metro to help her patient, Tressie Jennings, ride a train — virtually. [Courtesy of Hospice of the Valley]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210224-164552-022521%20op%20Lin%20Sue%20Cooney%20commentary.jpg)
![[The Associated Press]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210212-184651-AP21039775658225.jpg)
![[Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210209-174519-021021%20op%20Doug%20Nintzel%20ADOT%20commentary.jpg)
![Snow falls on a roadway near Flagstaff in this webcam image. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210126-165951-012721%20op%20Ryan%20Harding%20ADOT%20commentary.jpg)
![In this Jan. 6, 2021, file photo with the White House in the background, President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Washington. [The Associated Press]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20210126-165228-012621%20nation.jpg)
![Amber Kovarik enlisted the help of her daughters Jade (left), 5, and Tatum, 7, and father, Dave, to deliver almost 100 meals to Hospice of the Valley patients on Thanksgiving eve. [Courtesy of Hospice of the Valley]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201215-132439-121520%20op%20Lin%20Sue%20Cooney%20HOV%20commentary.jpg)
![ADOT officials seek the public’s help figuring out where this photo was taken. [ADOT photo]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201204-120551-120420%20op%20Rookhuyzen%20commentary%20Highway.jpg)
![Arizona Department of Transportation officials film a traffic incident management training video. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201127-100636-112720%20op%20John%20Halikowski%20ADOT%20commentary.tif.jpg)
![A deer has its eyes and ears on a passerby while foraging for food near a public park in Hillsborough, N.C., Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [AP Photo/Gerry Broome]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201120-112043-112020%20op%20AAA%20Arizona%20commentary.jpg)
![The original bridge over Queen Creek along U.S. 60 on the east side of Superior (foreground) served Arizona motorists for 30 years before it was replaced in 1953. [Courtesy of ADOT]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201118-123408-111820%20op%20David%20Rookhuyzen%20ADOT%20commentary.jpg)
![Thanks to a generous donation, Northwest Valley Connect was recently able to complete the decorative wrap on its newest transport van. [Courtesy of Northwest Valley Connect]](https://cdn4.creativecirclemedia.com/yourvalley/medium/20201117-125708-111720%20op%20Kathy%20Chandler%20commentary.jpg)
