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Missing details keep U.S. plague response on hold

We still don't know which pathogen killed a Russian researcher, or how well contained it is.

Health

Two big unknowns stand in the way of determining how serious the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="plague threat in Russia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/05/russia-pneumonic-plague-outbreak-lab-us" data-vars-content-id="31828b4f-d970-4a93-bec4-97c68488561b" data-vars-headline="Missing details keep U.S. plague response on hold" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/05/russia-pneumonic-plague-outbreak-lab-us" target="_self">plague threat in Russia</a> is and whether travel advisories, restrictions at U.S. ports of entry or other precautions are warranted. <ul><li>We still don&#x27;t know which pathogen killed a Russian researcher, or how well contained it is.</li></ul>Why it matters: Though public health experts say there&#x27;s no cause for Americans to panic, the episode serves as a wake-up call emphasizing the nature of global biological threats and the need for pandemic preparedness.

Trump wants to rewrite the midterm lexicon

Changing the words may not change the politics.

Politics & Policy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="60a1d612-dbd3-4630-8761-7aee6f47b9b2" data-vars-headline="Trump wants to rewrite the midterm lexicon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a> has long <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nicknamed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2018/10/16/donald-trump-nicknames-pocahontas-elizabeth-warren" data-vars-content-id="60a1d612-dbd3-4630-8761-7aee6f47b9b2" data-vars-headline="Trump wants to rewrite the midterm lexicon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2018/10/16/donald-trump-nicknames-pocahontas-elizabeth-warren" target="_self">nicknamed</a> his opponents, and now, as November approaches, he&#x27;s even trying to dictate the vocabulary around key issues. The big picture: Trump&#x27;s latest effort to reshape political language follows his longtime political strategy: Define the terms of the debate, and you gain power over the debate itself.<ul><li>But as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="polling" data-vars-click-url="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3968" data-vars-content-id="60a1d612-dbd3-4630-8761-7aee6f47b9b2" data-vars-headline="Trump wants to rewrite the midterm lexicon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3968" target="_blank">polling</a> on those issues continues to haunt the president&#x27;s party, Trump&#x27;s new vocabulary may not be enough to change voters&#x27; minds.</li></ul>

Longevity guru Bryan Johnson: "People really want me to die"

"I get it. It's funny. It's ironic. I push a lot of buttons that people don't like."

LOS ANGELES — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bryan Johnson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/16/bryan-johnson-immortals-longevity-regimen" data-vars-content-id="edd973a5-7921-4fe7-bd56-33966ce8e03a" data-vars-headline="Longevity guru Bryan Johnson: &quot;People really want me to die&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/16/bryan-johnson-immortals-longevity-regimen" target="_self">Bryan Johnson</a>, the face of the longevity movement who believes he may never die, announced recently that he had an incurable autoimmune disease — and his critics cheered, he told &quot;The Axios Show&quot; in an exclusive interview Monday.<ul><li>&quot;I mean, I think people really want me to die. Now I get it. It&#x27;s funny. It&#x27;s ironic. I push a lot of buttons that people don&#x27;t like,&quot; he said.</li></ul>The big picture: As Johnson himself acknowledged, there&#x27;s an irony in the founder of the &quot;Don&#x27;t Die&quot; movement watching people celebrate his diagnosis. But Johnson sees his diagnosis as rocket fuel for his mission to promote longevity, rather than a setback.

The most-watched election in U.S. history

It's shaping up to be most intensely observed, recorded, dissected and challenged election in American history.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2026 midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/08/18/miami-dade-florida-primary-election-federal-poll-monitoring" data-vars-content-id="26907581-7a71-4741-9d8e-50afff780ee9" data-vars-headline="The most-watched election in U.S. history" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/08/18/miami-dade-florida-primary-election-federal-poll-monitoring" target="_self">2026 midterms</a> are shaping up to be the most intensely observed, recorded, dissected and challenged election in American history.Why it matters: A small army of partisan and nonpartisan observers will show up. So will a surge of Justice Department monitors, organizers looking for signs of ICE and citizen journalists broadcasting their search for illegal voting in real time.

Scoop: Senate GOP to send $5m to shore up Graham in South Carolina

The GOP's concern about a Senate seat in blood-red South Carolina shows the challenge facing Republicans.

The main super PAC supporting Republican Senate candidates plans to inject $5 million into the South Carolina campaign as an &quot;insurance policy&quot; to help GOP nominee <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Darline Graham" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/darline-graham-south-carolina-republican-senate-results" data-vars-content-id="f3ab3b84-36eb-495b-ba33-bdf264c5afaf" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Senate GOP to send $5m to shore up Graham in South Carolina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/darline-graham-south-carolina-republican-senate-results" target="_self">Darline Graham</a>, a source familiar with the move tells Axios.Why it matters: The GOP&#x27;s concern that a Senate seat in blood-red South Carolina could be in play shows just how bad the political environment is for Republicans, who face <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a rash of troubles " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/26/trump-republicans-midterm-election-house-senate" data-vars-content-id="f3ab3b84-36eb-495b-ba33-bdf264c5afaf" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Senate GOP to send $5m to shore up Graham in South Carolina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/26/trump-republicans-midterm-election-house-senate" target="_self">a rash of troubles </a>in states long considered conservative strongholds.

Ultimate guide to fall in Scottsdale

It sure feels like fall in Scottsdale this week — even if we're not totally done with the 90s yet — so make the most of it.

News

We survived summer. Now comes a glorious stretch of patio dinners, desert hikes and packed weekends.Why it matters: It sure feels like fall this week — even if we&#x27;re not totally done with the 90s yet — so make the most of it.

Scottsdale's new rooftop brunch is B-A-N-A-N-A-S

Expect inflatable bananas, pop anthems and creative cocktails at this Saturday-only rooftop spot.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Holla Brunch Girl" data-vars-click-url="https://hollabrunchgirl.com/" data-vars-content-id="07e1177c-a14e-4b84-a825-feb4c386bf5d" data-vars-headline="Scottsdale&#x27;s new rooftop brunch is B-A-N-A-N-A-S" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://hollabrunchgirl.com/" target="_blank">Holla Brunch Girl</a>, a Saturday-only, 21+ rooftop brunch party spot, opens this weekend — and it&#x27;s serving up magical drinks, sparkles included. Dig in: The refreshing Botanical Bliss cocktail — which mixes Nolet&#x27;s gin, St-Germain, lemon and simple syrup, with butterfly pea for the glittery effect — caught my eye.

Phoenix

5 questions with the chef of Michelin-recognized ShinBay

The exclusive omakase spot is one of Arizona's finest restaurants.

Food and Drink

Last month, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/27/arizona-michelin-stars-southwest-debut" data-vars-content-id="c6ade926-ef5b-4f8f-8847-26ab752c263c" data-vars-headline="5 questions with the chef of Michelin-recognized ShinBay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/27/arizona-michelin-stars-southwest-debut" target="_self">Michelin guide</a> recognized one of the Valley&#x27;s most exclusive dining experiences: Scottsdale&#x27;s omakase sushi spot <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ShinBay" data-vars-click-url="https://www.shin-bay.com/" data-vars-content-id="c6ade926-ef5b-4f8f-8847-26ab752c263c" data-vars-headline="5 questions with the chef of Michelin-recognized ShinBay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.shin-bay.com/" target="_blank">ShinBay</a>, which hosts just two seatings of up to 13 diners a night at $285 a pop.<ul><li>Chef Ken Takana — who took over for retired ShinBay founder Shinji Kurita in 2023 — emailed with Axios Phoenix <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="about the honor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/01/07/michelin-star-worthy-restaurants-arizona" data-vars-content-id="c6ade926-ef5b-4f8f-8847-26ab752c263c" data-vars-headline="5 questions with the chef of Michelin-recognized ShinBay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/01/07/michelin-star-worthy-restaurants-arizona" target="_self">about the honor</a>.</li></ul>

Lick your chops: Arizona Restaurant Week is back

Here's a guide to making your tastebuds happy.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fall edition" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/09/23/phoenix-foodies-rejoice-fall-restaurant-week-begins" data-vars-content-id="df9700f6-c1c6-4fb9-87d4-b95e0ee16c8c" data-vars-headline="Lick your chops: Arizona Restaurant Week is back" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/09/23/phoenix-foodies-rejoice-fall-restaurant-week-begins" target="_self">fall edition</a> of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arizona Restaurant Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/22/last-chance-arizona-restaurant-week-2025" data-vars-content-id="df9700f6-c1c6-4fb9-87d4-b95e0ee16c8c" data-vars-headline="Lick your chops: Arizona Restaurant Week is back" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/22/last-chance-arizona-restaurant-week-2025" target="_self">Arizona Restaurant Week</a> kicks off Friday, meaning Valley foodies have the opportunity for special deals at more than 250 local eateries.How it works: Through Sept. 27, participating restaurants are offering prix-fixe menus for $33, $44 or $55.

Vecina brings its mesquite-fired menu to Scottsdale

Vecina opens a bigger second location in Scottsdale this weekend.

Vecina chef James Fox invited me into the kitchen this week ahead of Friday&#x27;s opening of the restaurant&#x27;s Scottsdale location.Dig in: Fox prepared the 16-ounce mesquite-grilled prime carne asada ribeye, served with charred green onion, habanero pommes purée and chimichurri.

Scoop: Biggs left positive reviews of Islamophobic and anti-immigrant books

Biggs is seeking to project a more moderate image in his bid to unseat Gov. Katie Hobbs.

Politics

A Goodreads account seeming to belong to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GOP nominee for governor Rep. Andy Biggs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/15/andy-biggs-senate-president-freedom-caucus-governor" data-vars-content-id="d29648c5-6235-4b34-add0-3863bae22c00" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Biggs left positive reviews of Islamophobic and anti-immigrant books" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/15/andy-biggs-senate-president-freedom-caucus-governor" target="_self">GOP nominee for governor Rep. Andy Biggs</a> left positive reviews for books that argue the growth of Muslim and Latin American populations threaten predominantly white Western societies.Why it matters: The apparent endorsements of books promoting extreme anti-immigrant views come as Biggs — one of the most conservative members of Congress — seeks to project a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more moderate image" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/03/andy-biggs-plays-it-safe-with-lieutenant-governor-pick" data-vars-content-id="d29648c5-6235-4b34-add0-3863bae22c00" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Biggs left positive reviews of Islamophobic and anti-immigrant books" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/03/andy-biggs-plays-it-safe-with-lieutenant-governor-pick" target="_self">more moderate image</a> in his race to unseat Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs.

Former Sen. Jon Kyl has died 

In his 18 years in the Senate, Kyl became a tremendously influential Republican lawmaker.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jon Kyl" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2018/09/04/jon-kyl-john-mccain-replacement-senate" data-vars-content-id="3c4e9373-61ce-47dc-8fe7-8539806baf0a" data-vars-headline="Former Sen. Jon Kyl has died " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2018/09/04/jon-kyl-john-mccain-replacement-senate" target="_self">Jon Kyl</a>, who <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="represented Arizona" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2018/09/04/facebook-jon-kyl-anti-conservative-bias-investigation" data-vars-content-id="3c4e9373-61ce-47dc-8fe7-8539806baf0a" data-vars-headline="Former Sen. Jon Kyl has died " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2018/09/04/facebook-jon-kyl-anti-conservative-bias-investigation" target="_self">represented Arizona</a> in the U.S. Senate for 18 years, has died. He was 84.The big picture: Kyl was an influential Republican, respected statesman and legislative <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="workhorse" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/jon-kyl-former-us-senator-arizona-dies-84-rcna598369" data-vars-content-id="3c4e9373-61ce-47dc-8fe7-8539806baf0a" data-vars-headline="Former Sen. Jon Kyl has died " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/jon-kyl-former-us-senator-arizona-dies-84-rcna598369" target="_blank">workhorse</a> known for his conservative principles, skilled use of Senate procedures and deep knowledge of water and judicial issues.

One year later, Turning Point looks to continue Charlie Kirk's work

Over the past year, Turning Point Action has opened offices in Las Vegas and Manchester, New Hampshire.

A year after conservative activist <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Charlie Kirk&#x27;s assassination" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" data-vars-content-id="707e564e-eafd-4e36-90ca-42343a9625ee" data-vars-headline="One year later, Turning Point looks to continue Charlie Kirk&#x27;s work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" target="_self">Charlie Kirk&#x27;s assassination</a>, his organization, Turning Point, strives to continue his work and carry on his legacy.The big picture: Kirk built <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Turning Point" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/11/charlie-kirk-turning-point-usa" data-vars-content-id="707e564e-eafd-4e36-90ca-42343a9625ee" data-vars-headline="One year later, Turning Point looks to continue Charlie Kirk&#x27;s work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/11/charlie-kirk-turning-point-usa" target="_self">Turning Point</a>, which is headquartered in Phoenix, into a major political force on the conservative right — but it was unclear what the future would bring after his murder.

A campaign hangover, one political sign at a time

Thousands came down, but officials say signs still crowd roadsides and intersections.

Irked by the droves of political signs around Scottsdale? You&#x27;re not alone — and the City Council wants to do something about it.Why it matters: The signs, some for candidates who are no longer in the running, aren&#x27;t just an eyesore. They can block drivers&#x27; sight lines at intersections, obstruct pedestrian routes and become roadside hazards, and when campaigns leave signs up past the legal deadlines, city workers have to clean up the mess.

How Scottsdale is rethinking its Flock contract

Some council members want Scottsdale to ditch the cameras after reports of potential police misuse.

As cities across the Valley cancel or rethink their contracts with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Flock" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/douglas/2026/08/04/flock-ceo-douglas-county-sheriff-regret-axon-data" data-vars-content-id="f6f568eb-17f9-4649-8dd2-bfe22c7d843d" data-vars-headline="How Scottsdale is rethinking its Flock contract" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/douglas/2026/08/04/flock-ceo-douglas-county-sheriff-regret-axon-data" target="_self">Flock</a> over privacy concerns and suspected police misuse, Scottsdale is figuring out how to move forward on this hot-button issue.Why it matters: Scottsdale says its own audits have found no misuse of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Flock system" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/17/arizona-cities-distance-from-flock-cameras" data-vars-content-id="f6f568eb-17f9-4649-8dd2-bfe22c7d843d" data-vars-headline="How Scottsdale is rethinking its Flock contract" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/17/arizona-cities-distance-from-flock-cameras" target="_self">Flock system</a>, which allows police agencies to track the location of almost any car, but the scrutiny elsewhere is testing whether the city&#x27;s existing safeguards are enough to maintain public trust.

The funniest rejected ADOT safety message entries

Public Safety

The Arizona Department of Transportation is in the midst of yet <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="another contest" data-vars-click-url="https://azdot.gov/news/adot-announces-finalists-safety-message-contest-0" data-vars-content-id="69ce75b8-8bcc-4208-a41d-2cfc2023e82f" data-vars-headline="The funniest rejected ADOT safety message entries" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://azdot.gov/news/adot-announces-finalists-safety-message-contest-0" target="_blank">another contest</a> to determine what somewhat-humorous safety message will appear on highway LED boards. But far more entertaining are the messages ADOT rejected.Why it matters: ADOT received more than 1,700 entries in the one-week period the contest was open. Axios obtained that list via a public records request and combed through it for the rejected messages that made us guffaw.

James Harden's new restaurant joins long list of celeb spots

The ASU alum brings a casual restaurant bet to Scottsdale.

Add NBA star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Harden" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/02/11/james-harden-cavaliers-nuggets-win" data-vars-content-id="8e2dd745-92a1-4294-a123-ce1f6d8295a4" data-vars-headline="James Harden&#x27;s new restaurant joins long list of celeb spots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/02/11/james-harden-cavaliers-nuggets-win" target="_self">James Harden</a> to Scottsdale&#x27;s growing roster of celebrity restaurateurs — only this time, the draw is a $12 sandwich, not bottle service.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Smiling Moose" data-vars-click-url="https://www.smilingmoosedeli.com/stores" data-vars-content-id="8e2dd745-92a1-4294-a123-ce1f6d8295a4" data-vars-headline="James Harden&#x27;s new restaurant joins long list of celeb spots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.smilingmoosedeli.com/stores" target="_blank">Smiling Moose</a>, a Colorado-based restaurant, is the only fast-casual concept in Scottsdale&#x27;s long list of celebrity-associated restaurants.

Old Town's ultimate $3 tacos

Here's what to expect at this tacos-and-tequila spot in Old Town Scottsdale and Chandler.

Even on a hot Tuesday, when other Old Town bars look empty, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cien Agaves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cienagaves.com/" data-vars-content-id="c1c0824f-ea33-4670-b976-dec281c8f572" data-vars-headline="Old Town&#x27;s ultimate $3 tacos" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cienagaves.com/" target="_blank">Cien Agaves</a> is packed. Dig in: Their Taco Tuesday deals include $4 Tecates and $3 Tex-Mex-style tacos with options for barbacoa, tinga chicken and diabla shrimp.

Exclusive: Businesses question Old Town Scottsdale safety plan

Proposed changes include more patrols, ID scanners, stricter security rules and crowd controls.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arizona Restaurant Association" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/09/22/arizona-restaurant-week-scottsdale" data-vars-content-id="d15718b8-854d-42fb-948e-546a31d33c88" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Businesses question Old Town Scottsdale safety plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/09/22/arizona-restaurant-week-scottsdale" target="_self">Arizona Restaurant Association</a> supports safety improvements in Old Town but is warning city officials against costly, one-size-fits-all mandates.Why it matters: A deadly September shooting renewed pressure on the city to shore up safety in the bustling entertainment district, but proposed changes could shift more responsibility and costs to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bars and restaurants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/food-and-drink" data-vars-content-id="d15718b8-854d-42fb-948e-546a31d33c88" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Businesses question Old Town Scottsdale safety plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/food-and-drink" target="_self">bars and restaurants</a>.

Where in Scottsdale? 

Think you know Scottsdale? Let's find out.

Think you know Scottsdale? Let&#x27;s find out.How it works: We show you something cool. You tell us where it is.

Arizona Fall League is here

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Diamondbacks&#x27; season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/28/arizona-diamondbacks-season-ends-miss-playoffs-third-straight-year" data-vars-content-id="c6432c7f-d629-4544-972a-12864a2a9315" data-vars-headline="Arizona Fall League is here" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/28/arizona-diamondbacks-season-ends-miss-playoffs-third-straight-year" target="_self">Diamondbacks&#x27; season</a> may be over, but there&#x27;s still plenty of baseball to catch in town — and I&#x27;m rooting for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scottsdale" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale" data-vars-content-id="c6432c7f-d629-4544-972a-12864a2a9315" data-vars-headline="Arizona Fall League is here" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale" target="_self">Scottsdale</a> Scorpions.Why it matters: For families missing baseball after the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="MLB regular season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/10/01/white-sox-advance-mlb-playoffs-cubs-counsell-meidroth-pca-padres-astros" data-vars-content-id="c6432c7f-d629-4544-972a-12864a2a9315" data-vars-headline="Arizona Fall League is here" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/10/01/white-sox-advance-mlb-playoffs-cubs-counsell-meidroth-pca-padres-astros" target="_self">MLB regular season</a>, the six-week minor league offers an intimate, affordable way to keep watching in person.

Sheriff's office outsourced investigations to Cyber Ninjas-tied firm

The firm, AZ Truthfinder, has been paid $270,000 since June 2025.

Election

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Maricopa County Sheriff&#x27;s Office" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/07/31/maricopa-county-election-results-sheriff-recorder-supervisors" data-vars-content-id="3e30cc9a-4252-4f25-a1b0-05f8d4e14998" data-vars-headline="Sheriff&#x27;s office outsourced investigations to Cyber Ninjas-tied firm" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/07/31/maricopa-county-election-results-sheriff-recorder-supervisors" target="_self">Maricopa County Sheriff&#x27;s Office</a> (MCSO) failed to properly vet a firm with ties to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cyber Ninjas audit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/09/27/one-year-after-arizona-election-audit-questions-linger" data-vars-content-id="3e30cc9a-4252-4f25-a1b0-05f8d4e14998" data-vars-headline="Sheriff&#x27;s office outsourced investigations to Cyber Ninjas-tied firm" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/09/27/one-year-after-arizona-election-audit-questions-linger" target="_self">Cyber Ninjas audit</a> of the 2020 election before awarding it an investigative contract, per a newly-unsealed report from the court-appointed monitor overseeing the agency.Why it matters: The report calls into question the administration of Sheriff Jerry Sheridan as MCSO pushes for an end to the monitor&#x27;s oversight, which was imposed by a federal judge in 2013 as the result of class-action racial profiling case.

Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor's race

Andy Biggs said he's "inclined" to sign Republican bills Katie Hobbs has vetoed.

Gov. Katie Hobbs&#x27; record-setting list of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="vetoes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/04/19/hobbs-veto-record" data-vars-content-id="fb712180-f1aa-44f0-8e2f-ab598f952b02" data-vars-headline="Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/04/19/hobbs-veto-record" target="_self">vetoes</a> could provide a road map to the types of bills Andy Biggs would sign if he were elected.Why it matters: Major decisions about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/11/26/republicans-early-ballots-voting-by-mail-2026-legislative-session" data-vars-content-id="fb712180-f1aa-44f0-8e2f-ab598f952b02" data-vars-headline="Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/11/26/republicans-early-ballots-voting-by-mail-2026-legislative-session" target="_self">elections</a>, immigration, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="school choice" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/17/capitol-roundup-hobbs-veto-threat-bill-mortatorium" data-vars-content-id="fb712180-f1aa-44f0-8e2f-ab598f952b02" data-vars-headline="Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/17/capitol-roundup-hobbs-veto-threat-bill-mortatorium" target="_self">school choice</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="transgender rights" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/16/capitol-roundup-hobbs-nears-new-veto-record-2025" data-vars-content-id="fb712180-f1aa-44f0-8e2f-ab598f952b02" data-vars-headline="Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/16/capitol-roundup-hobbs-nears-new-veto-record-2025" target="_self">transgender rights</a>, groundwater policy, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="taxes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2023/03/24/arizona-republicans-food-tax-ban-hobbs-likely-veto" data-vars-content-id="fb712180-f1aa-44f0-8e2f-ab598f952b02" data-vars-headline="Veto stamp hangs in the balance in governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2023/03/24/arizona-republicans-food-tax-ban-hobbs-likely-veto" target="_self">taxes</a>, fentanyl sentencing and more will hinge on who wins the governor&#x27;s race.

"Team Moms" takes over Scottsdale

The show, executive produced by Kim Kardashian, takes place in our backyard.

A new reality show about the bonkers world of professionalized <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="youth sports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/private-equity-youth-sports" data-vars-content-id="5032d974-a7bf-45b4-b7d3-b53ddfd33938" data-vars-headline="&quot;Team Moms&quot; takes over Scottsdale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/private-equity-youth-sports" target="_self">youth sports</a> is premiering this week.Why it matters: &quot;Team Moms: Baseball,&quot; executive produced by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kim Kardashian" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/26/kim-kardashian-private-equity-skky" data-vars-content-id="5032d974-a7bf-45b4-b7d3-b53ddfd33938" data-vars-headline="&quot;Team Moms&quot; takes over Scottsdale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/26/kim-kardashian-private-equity-skky" target="_self">Kim Kardashian</a>, takes place in our backyard.

Scoop: ASU restores Obama's name to financial aid program 

The removal of Obama's name came as universities navigate the Trump administration's attempts to reshape higher education.

Arizona State University&#x27;s decision to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pull former President Obama&#x27;s name from a student financial aid program" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/23/arizona-state-university-rename-obama-financial-aid-program" data-vars-content-id="12e5f08e-44bf-4157-9f76-837f6d8e4c5a" data-vars-headline="Scoop: ASU restores Obama&#x27;s name to financial aid program " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/23/arizona-state-university-rename-obama-financial-aid-program" target="_self">pull former President Obama&#x27;s name from a student financial aid program</a> appears to have been short-lived.State of play: The ASU Promise Plus program, which the university&#x27;s website on Tuesday said &quot;was previously known as the Obama Scholars Program,&quot; is now again <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="described online" data-vars-click-url="https://tuition.asu.edu/special-financial-assistance-programs-arizona-residents#webspark-anchor-link--514" data-vars-content-id="12e5f08e-44bf-4157-9f76-837f6d8e4c5a" data-vars-headline="Scoop: ASU restores Obama&#x27;s name to financial aid program " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tuition.asu.edu/special-financial-assistance-programs-arizona-residents#webspark-anchor-link--514" target="_blank">described online</a> as the President Barack Obama Scholars Program.

Catch the last of Arizona Restaurant Week

I tried Pinyon's $55 prix-fixe menu and found my new favorite dish.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arizona Restaurant Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/18/arizona-restaurant-week-is-back-fall-2026" data-vars-content-id="5a449b68-e54e-4a71-87e3-b7e5aed0977d" data-vars-headline="Catch the last of Arizona Restaurant Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/18/arizona-restaurant-week-is-back-fall-2026" target="_self">Arizona Restaurant Week</a> helped me find a new favorite dish at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pinyon" data-vars-click-url="https://pinyonrestaurant.com/" data-vars-content-id="5a449b68-e54e-4a71-87e3-b7e5aed0977d" data-vars-headline="Catch the last of Arizona Restaurant Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pinyonrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Pinyon</a>, the Mediterranean restaurant that&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rated No. 1" data-vars-click-url="https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/food-drink/scottsdale-eatery-named-best-mediterranean-restaurant-in-the-us-40684319/" data-vars-content-id="5a449b68-e54e-4a71-87e3-b7e5aed0977d" data-vars-headline="Catch the last of Arizona Restaurant Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/food-drink/scottsdale-eatery-named-best-mediterranean-restaurant-in-the-us-40684319/" target="_blank">rated No. 1</a> in the U.S. by Yelp Elites.Why it matters: The $55 per person price tag is a steal for this Old Town spot, and one of my favorite happy hours.

Everything we know about Scottsdale's wastewater swap plan

The proposed exchange could help Scottsdale protect its water supply as Colorado River cuts deepen.

Scottsdale&#x27;s trying to kick its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="water" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/02/18/colorado-river-basin-states-missed-deadline-federal-solution" data-vars-content-id="7ccee47e-660d-4f5b-8691-cba7adec55ec" data-vars-headline="Everything we know about Scottsdale&#x27;s wastewater swap plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/02/18/colorado-river-basin-states-missed-deadline-federal-solution" target="_self">water</a> PR problem down the, er, canal.The big picture: Since the news of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deeper cuts to the Colorado River," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/21/feds-announce-colorado-river-cuts-arizona" data-vars-content-id="7ccee47e-660d-4f5b-8691-cba7adec55ec" data-vars-headline="Everything we know about Scottsdale&#x27;s wastewater swap plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/21/feds-announce-colorado-river-cuts-arizona" target="_self">deeper cuts to the Colorado River,</a> which makes up about 70% of Scottsdale&#x27;s water supply, the city has faced increased pressure to come up with a game plan.

When to see peak fall colors in Arizona

You might have to wait and drive to get a taste of autumn.

Things to Do

Leaf-peepers, mark your calendars: Fall color is expected across most of the country by mid-October, according to a map on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Explore Fall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.explorefall.com/fall-foliage-map" data-vars-content-id="ce7fd3a5-a2fc-4082-a747-e5c18eac9c47" data-vars-headline="When to see peak fall colors in Arizona" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.explorefall.com/fall-foliage-map" target="_blank">Explore Fall</a>.Zoom in: Peak foliage is expected to sweep south over the next several weeks, though folks in Arizona have a lot of waiting — and some driving — to do before fall colors arrive.

2026 Arizona State Fair: Prices, parking, deals and more

The fair runs Thursdays through Sundays until Nov. 1.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arizona State Fair" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/20/arizona-state-fair-2024-prices-parking-concerts-rides" data-vars-content-id="0c6d8031-f2eb-4f7d-8a7f-9a493bb5f1a5" data-vars-headline="2026 Arizona State Fair: Prices, parking, deals and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/20/arizona-state-fair-2024-prices-parking-concerts-rides" target="_self">Arizona State Fair</a> opened Thursday and continues through Nov. 1.<ul><li>Here&#x27;s what you need to know to make the most of it.</li></ul>

This new exhibit turns a model home into a look at Valley growth

The installation is designed to feel like a house caught mid-construction.

A new SMoCA installation displays photos and videos inside a large-scale model home rather than neat gallery walls. The big picture: The source material mostly comes from Buckeye and the West Valley, but the questions the work of artist Alejandro Acierto raises — about housing growth and preserving the desert — are familiar ones in Scottsdale.

Phoenix Zoo raises membership prices and changes benefits

Phoenix Zoo members now get 50% off guest tickets but no long have flexible guest option.

It&#x27;s now more expensive to become a member of the Phoenix Zoo.State of play: As of the start of September, the zoo implemented a &quot;modest increase&quot; and new membership benefits, per Rebecca Zandarski, director of donor and member relations.

There's 1 month left for Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden

The popular Desert Botanical Gardens series is extending through September for the first time.

Culture

This summer, nature lovers and the nature-curious have an extra month to check out the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Desert Botanical Garden&#x27;s popular &quot;Flashlight Nights&quot; events" data-vars-click-url="https://dbg.org/summer-garden-after-dark/" data-vars-content-id="21b339da-285c-4d82-9f07-83731825464c" data-vars-headline="There&#x27;s 1 month left for Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dbg.org/summer-garden-after-dark/" target="_blank">Desert Botanical Garden&#x27;s popular &quot;Flashlight Nights&quot; events</a>, which will continue to the end of September for the first time since the series began in 1988.Why it matters: As Phoenix temperatures (hopefully) begin to cool down, the weekend events offer a fun, sunburn-free way for kiddos and adults to explore what makes living in the desert so unique.

Escape the heat by stepping inside the sunken Titanic ship

Walk through movie props, recreated cabins and a VR dive to the wreck.

&#x27;Titanic: An Immersive Voyage&quot; is docked <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in Scottsdale" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/08/19/celebrate-scottsdale-75th-anniversary-events-things-to-do" data-vars-content-id="8209d0f1-0f5a-4a7b-905f-afa7cd57ed2c" data-vars-headline="Escape the heat by stepping inside the sunken Titanic ship" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/08/19/celebrate-scottsdale-75th-anniversary-events-things-to-do" target="_self">in Scottsdale</a>.The latest: From re-created cabins to the wreck site itself, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this exhibit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/03/charlotte-titanic-vr-dates-tickets-immersive-exhibits" data-vars-content-id="8209d0f1-0f5a-4a7b-905f-afa7cd57ed2c" data-vars-headline="Escape the heat by stepping inside the sunken Titanic ship" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/04/03/charlotte-titanic-vr-dates-tickets-immersive-exhibits" target="_self">this exhibit</a> allows you to explore what the inside of the ship looked like — and how it went down.

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