🌱 Barbershop Break-In + Call For STR Action + Arizona Musicfest

Hello there, neighbors! I'm here in your inbox per usual to get you caught up on everything you need to know about what's going on in town, including...

• Police asking for information on a north Scottsdale barbershop break-in.
• Mayor David Ortega is calling for more action on short-term rentals.
• Arizona Musicfest 2023-24 lineup and tickets.

But first, your local weather: It will be partly sunny and hot, with a high of 113 and low of 88.

Here are the top stories in Scottsdale today:

1. Babylon Cut, a barbershop in north Scottsdale, was broken into and ransacked last Monday. The three suspects were captured on surveillance video, and police are asking the public for more information about these individuals or this incident. The suspects used a chair from outside to break through the front door, and after stealing the register, scissors, a lamp light, tools, and paper towels, they stole the chair as well. Determined owner Pierre Yakhnis purchased new equipment and reopened quickly, and he is hopeful that these thieves will be brought to justice. (Arizona's Family)
2. Mayor David Ortega is calling for action after gunshots were fired at a July 4 party at a short-term rental. Though no one was injured at the Scottsdale rental incident, the vehicle involved in the shooting went on to a house party in Maryvale and was involved in a separate shooting and homicide. Mayor Ortega passionately reminded City Council about these events, and that one of the largest Arizona drug busts came from a Scottsdale short-term rental, before asking for a vote. He requested that the city manager and city attorney "research and agendize an item for discussion and possible council action regarding potential additional or increased enforcement mechanisms and/or efforts related to short term rentals." (scottsdale.org)
3. Tickets are on sale for Arizona Musicfest 2023-24 in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area. More than 30 concerts will take place at Highlands Church or La Casa de Cristo Church. One performance will be hosted at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church and another at the Musical Instrument Museum. Judy Collins, Kristin Chenoweth, Paul Anka, and Frankie Avlon are among the lineup of performers this season, and "Elvis: The Concert of Kings" kicks things off on Nov. 6. Tickets can be purchased here. The full schedule can be found at the link. (NewsBreak)

Business owners and marketers in Scottsdale: Do you want to build awareness with local customers? I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. Click here to learn more.

Tomorrow in Scottsdale:

Wednesday, July 19

• Books 2 Boogie at Appaloosa Library (10:30 AM - 11:00 AM)
• Reading Buddies Session 3 at Mustang Library. Register online. (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM)
• The Magic and Illusions of Eric Giliam at Mustang Library (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
• Sewing Machine Basics at Civic Center Library (2:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
• Knowasis Debate Club at Civic Center Library (3:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
• Build Together Now at Appaloosa Library (3:30 PM - 4:15 PM)
• Graphic Novel Book Club at Civic Center Library. Register online. (5:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• "Whether you're a rookie driver or have been driving for decades, you should watch this! You might learn something that could save a life." Video about side mirror positioning at the link! (Scottsdale Police Department via Facebook)
• Scottsdale Police Department received the following kudos: "I would like to nominate Sgt. Clore for a Spirit of Service. My ex-husband was threatening to harm me and abduct my children. During the ordeal, Sgt. Clore called several times to check on me and give me real-time updates... Please know he's a great officer! ~Anonymous DV Victim" (Scottsdale Police Department via Facebook)
• "Chaparral Pool renovations are complete! The pool now features 16 swim lanes and is USA Swimming Certified for length and depth. The pool will reopen to the public on Tuesday, July 18. To celebrate, enjoy FREE admission for lap and public swim through Saturday, July 22!" (Scottsdale Parks & Recreation via Facebook)
• "#Scottsdale was recently ranked number six in the WalletHub 'Best Cities for Recreation' ranking. The article cited neighborhood parks and a wide range of high quality indoor and outdoor activities that contribute to a city's overall well-being and economy." Check out the article here. (Scottsdale Parks & Recreation via Facebook)
• "Who's ready for some fun, sun and safety at the annual Safety Luau? Bring the whole family and join us at Eldorado Aquatic Center Sunday, July 30 from 4-9:30 p.m. for a fun and informative evening. This free event will feature water safety tips, time to practice your hula and we'll end the night with a dive-in movie showing of Disney's 'Lilo & Stitch.'" (Scottsdale Parks & Recreation via Facebook)
• "Reminder: Monsoon season brings higher humidity, which can lead to thunderstorms, heavy rain, lightning, hail, high winds, flash flooding, dust storms and extreme heat... Develop a household emergency plan, and consider items you would need to take, and routes you may need to travel in the event of an emergency evacuation... Learn more: EIN.az.gov/ready-set-go" (City of Scottsdale - Government via Facebook)
• "The Center for the Future of Arizona recognized Stephanie Zamora, management associate to Scottsdale's city manager, as an emerging leader in public service at the 2023 Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards. The Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards, created in spring 2011, recognize nonelected public servants contributing to their communities and civic life, and collectively building a bright future for Arizona... See the full list of winners and learn more about Stephanie's work in Scottsdale: http://ArizonaFuture.org/.../gabe.../2023-award-recipients/" (City of Scottsdale - Government via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Tuesday off right! See you all tomorrow for your next update.

— Megan Moreno

About me: Dr. Megan Moreno is a registered nurse, leader, cancer survivor, wife, and mother of two. Megan loves spending time with her husband, who is an Army combat veteran, and their children exploring the beautiful city of Scottsdale.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Scottsdale Patch newsletter? Contact me at meg_n_more@outlook.com