🌱 Scottsdale Considers Raising Utility Rates + Scottsdale PD Training

Howdy, neighbors! I'm your new local Scottsdale news curator. Pleased to meet you! I'm excited to catch you up on all the local news you need to know, including:

• A proposal to raise utility rates is being considered by Scottsdale City Council.
• Scottsdale police officers are taking emergency driving classes.
• A tiger cub was rescued after being posted for sale online.

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But first, today's weather:

If you love taking a stroll outside in our beautiful Scottsdale weather but want to avoid too much sun, you're in luck! Expect variable cloudiness today with a high of 77 and low of 55.

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Here are the top stories in Scottsdale today:

1. The Scottsdale City Council is considering raising utility rates. Though council members reportedly gave no indication where they stand on this proposal, staff proposed increases to sewer, solid waste and water rates. Multiple reasons were cited for this change, including increased costs of raw water, additional actions for drought preparedness and multiple fee changes. The official vote will take place on May 16. (NewsBreak)
2. Scottsdale police officers are enhancing their skills for protecting others by taking emergency driving classes. This hands-on Emergency Vehicle Operator Course focuses on real-life situations and includes pursuit driving, defensive driving and more. One example is the break and evade, in which the officers practice what to do if a car stops in front of them or a person runs out in front of them. (12news.com KPNX)
3. The Museum of Illusions opens in Scottsdale today! This global concept, which will be opening at 9500 East Via de Ventura, features framed optical illusions, immersive rooms and mind-bending exhibits. The grand opening is at 9 a.m., and the exhibit will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The venue highly recommends purchasing tickets in advance. (ABC15 Arizona)
4. A tiger cub is now safe and happy with the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center in Scottsdale after illegally being listed for sale online. The cub was listed for sale on social media for $25,000, and the individual who posted the listing was indicted on charges of selling and endangering the animal. The little tiger is enjoying plenty of toys and a special diet while she waits for the case to be settled, at which point she will be transferred to an out-of-state sanctuary. (Arizona's Family)
5. A Scottsdale resident was found guilty of wire fraud and money laundering, taking over $20 million from his investors to fund a lifestyle of luxury. David Allen Harbour, 49, promised his clients big returns and used their investments to fund a private Eagles concert, speedboats, trips on private jets, jewelry and more. His sentencing is scheduled for June 5. (12News)

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From our sponsor:

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Today in Scottsdale:

• Taliesin West is offering a guided tour geared toward children (aged 5-12) and their families. Guests can enjoy a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's office, learn about architecture and the Sonoran Desert, and experience a special movie theater. (9:00 AM)
• Art on the Boardwalk festival continues to run through Sunday, March 12! The free event takes place at the Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 East Via de Ventura. Guests will enjoy unique fine arts, crafts, specialty gifts and home decor made by local and regional artists. Other festivities include a children's coloring contest and live music. (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
• The annual St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl is today! Join the Scottsdale Shamrock Crawl and enjoy drink specials, penny drink vouchers and a brunch plate. (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
• Rodeo Scottsdale, also known as the Parada Del Sol Rodeo, is back at WestWorld of Scottsdale! Gates open 2 hours prior to the performance. The performance events include bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and barrel racing! (7:00 PM)
• Something Rotten will be featured at the Desert Stages Theater, 7014 East Camelback Road. (7:30 PM)
• The Scottsdale Public Library has multiple classes and exhibits, such as Legends, All Stars, and Rogues: The Rich Legacy of Scottsdale Spring Training, Family Storytime, The Reel Arizona Flower Show, Rip Woods: Creating Magic, and Yoga in the Garden. (All Day)

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From my notebook:

• In the mood for some coffee and conversation with a local hero? You're in luck! The Scottsdale Police Department continues to host Coffee with a Cop! Sip on a cup of coffee and chat with a Scottsdale police officer this Sunday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the 8612 East Shea Boulevard Starbucks. (Scottsdale Police Department via Facebook)
• The heat is on! The National Weather Services is predicting warmer than average temperatures continuing through next week. Temperatures are expected to reach the low 80s, much warmer than recent below-average readings. (Scottsdale Fire Department via Facebook)
• Personal safety is especially important for Scottsdale seniors. In partnership with the Scottsdale Police Department, Scottsdale Senior Services will host two opportunities for personal safety education: one on March 22 at 1 p.m. at the Granite Reef Senior Center and another on March 29 at 10 a.m. at the Via Linda Senior Center. Topics include parking lot safety, protecting your home and identity theft. (Scottsdale Senior Services via Facebook)
• Do you want to enjoy some baseball without the hassle of fighting traffic and finding parking? Good news! The City of Scottsdale offers free Scottsdale Trolley service to Old Town and Scottsdale Stadium on home game days. "The service starts 90 minutes before the first pitch and ends 90 minutes after the last inning." (City of Scottsdale - Government via Facebook)
• Celebrate Women's History Month in true western style by heading out to Scottsdale's Museum of the West! The museum has multiple exhibits spotlighting women cowboys, ranchers and artists. The exhibits will run through March 31. (Fabulous Arizona)
• Heading out and about this weekend? Multiple Phoenix-area freeway closures and restrictions are in effect. The I-17 southbound lanes will be closed between Cactus Road and Northern Avenue until 11 a.m today. The I-17 northbound lanes will be closed between Northern Avenue and Yorkshire Drive until 5 a.m. Monday. The US 60 westbound lanes will be closed from Alma School Road to McClintock Drive until 5 a.m. Monday. The I-10 westbound ramp to northbound State Route 143 will be closed until 4 a.m. Monday. Lastly, the Loop 303 westbound will be closed between I-17 and Lake Pleasant Parkway until 5 p.m. Saturday. (FOX 10 News Phoenix)

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Featured events:

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• American Diabetes Association Alert Day® — Are You At Risk? (March 28)
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Alrighty, that's all I've got for today! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with another update.

— Megan Moreno

About me: 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