Can Scottsdale Become a Blue Zone?

And a lineup of local events for the week

Author

John Apolinar
February 19, 2025

Good morning, Scottsdale. This is Scottsdale Scoop, the newsletter that shares fun events and highlights local businesses. 

Spring Training Season is here! Here’s a lineup of games this week.

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Also - I’m headed to Belmont’s Kitchen & Cocktails Media Night this Thursday. If anyone will be there let me know!

In today’s Scottsdale Scoop:

  • Scottsdale aiming to become a blue zone

  • A new scholarship for students with disabilities

  • One of my favorite pizza spots

Let’s get to it.

— John Apolinar

SCOTTSDALE SNAPSHOT

Current Blue Zones

Scottsdale is working to become Arizona’s first designated Blue Zone community.

The initiative is backed by HonorHealth, The Cigna Group, and Goodwill, aiming to integrate wellness into workplaces, restaurants, and schools. Over the next four years, Scottsdale will implement these strategies, with an evaluation determining if it meets the Blue Zone criteria. If successful, Scottsdale would join over 70 U.S. cities striving to improve public health through environmental and lifestyle changes. I love it personally. Health before wealth.

Scottsdale announces a new scholarship for students with disabilities.

Scottsdale just launched the Mayor’s Ability Awards—a scholarship program for students with disabilities who’ve shown resilience and determination. Mayor Lisa Borowsky wants to give these students a well-deserved boost as they head to college. Applications are open until March 21, and winners will be celebrated on April 18 at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Know someone who should apply? Hit up Yvonne Cahill at 480-312-7977 for more details.

Toulon Golf just dropped a new putter - the Scottsdale.

I know, not exactly Scottsdale focused, but it bears our city’s name so I figured I’d highlight it. This ear-shaped mid-mallet putter features a distinctive flange and flow, offering golfers a blend of traditional aesthetics with modern performance.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH K9 RESORTS

Hey pet parents! Ever wish you could take that dream vacation without the guilty feeling of leaving your furry family member behind?

At K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel in Scottsdale, your pup isn't just staying in a kennel - they're checking into a five-star resort complete with specially designed suites, pristine play areas, and the kind of attention that would make any tail wag! 

Their state-of-the-art facility (think hospital-grade air purification and antimicrobial everything) means your best friend is not only living in luxury but also in the safest, cleanest environment possible. From cozy compartments perfect for smaller pups to sprawling luxury suites that can host up to four dogs from the same family, they’ve thought of everything to make their stay spectacular. 

BUSINESS BUZZ

A Popular Coastal Italian Spot 🍝

I have seen more IG stories about Elephante in the last month than I have about any other bar/restaurant. It reminds me of Tulum based on the pics but I haven’t had a chance to check it out personally. The rooftop views are supposed to be 🤌🏽

Crisp Pizza is a Must Try 🍕

Perfectly crisped to perfection

Crisp is one of my favorite Scottsdale pizza joints! The owner is such a good dude and truly cares about his pizza. Here’s a Barstool Pizza Review from Dave Portnoy himself when he visited.

True to their name, Crisp pizza has that satisfying crunch since they bake it in multiple steps. It’s a must try!

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just local businesses I wanted to highlight. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

WEEKEND LINEUP

Thursday, February 20

🤘Beatles vs Stones | Showroom at Talking Stick Resort | 8PM

🥃 An Evening of Decadence at The Scotch Library | The Scotch Library at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa | 6PM

Friday, February 21

🎤 Kim Congdon Standup Comedy | Desert Ridge Improv | 7PM (multiple days on this one)

💃 German Cornejo’s Tango After Dark | Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | 8PM

🎸 Teenage Wasteland | The Showroom | 7:30PM

⚾️ Spring Training Rockies vs Diamondbacks | Salt River Fields at Talking Stick | 1:10PM

Saturday, February 22

🍷 Made in Arizona: Wine Dinner | Cafe Allegro | 5:15PM

⚾️ Spring Training Diamondbacks vs Rockies | Salt River Fields at Talking Stick | 1:10PM

🍻 Official Mardi Gras Pub Crawl | Mother Tuckers Tavern | 3PM

Sunday, February 23

⚾️ Spring Training Brewers vs Rockies | Salt River Fields at Talking Stick | 1:10PM

⚾️ Spring Training Reds vs Giants| Scottsdale Stadium | 1:05PM

THE GOOD LIFE

23,000 sq ft with stunning views

Featuring this weeks most expensive home sold at $33.5M. This is a new record for AZ! This one has its own gun range and 14 bedrooms.

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