Good morning, Scottsdale.

Arizona education advocates sent a joint letter to congressional leaders urging more funding for Pell Grants—and investments in food, housing and mental health support as FAFSA completions drop and college costs rise.

In Arizona, over 120,000 undergraduates received Pell Grants last year while many community college students faced food insecurity, prompting calls for reform to boost local success.

The Scottsdale Unified School District board approved the new 2025-2026 spending plan at its June 24 meeting, setting the budget at over $400 million for the school year that starts August 3.

The plan lowers maintenance spending by 2.5% and cuts classroom staff by 5% while relying on state and district funds and a small drop in school tax rates—without laying off teachers.

Scottsdale City Council approved on June 24 an amendment to its adaptive reuse ordinance to convert a limited number of underused commercial parcels into apartments—but critics say the measure falls short of the state law requirement of at least 10% eligibility and may lead to further legal costs. State rep Dan Ishac and the Arizona Multihousing Association warned that if changes are not made, the city could face additional legal challenges.

Local health officials in Maricopa County are increasing mosquito surveillance and prevention efforts as warmer weather and monsoon season approach—relying on year-round monitoring and coordinated response plans to address rising mosquito activity.

Aloft Live! with Jourdan Rolland

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy a lively performance featuring diverse tunes from country to reggae in a relaxed bar setting.

Fourth of July Freedom Fest

Various times — Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Check event page for cost — Celebrate America's birthday with festivities at a luxury venue.

Botzee Robotics and Aerospace Engineering Flight Camp

All day — Sky Zone Trampoline Park — Pricing available — Explore drone science and rocket building through hands-on STEM activities.

Language is Limitless: The National Institute

12 AM — Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Check event page for cost — Engage with world language educators through inspiring workshops and keynote speeches.

Aloft Live! Featuring Emmy Griswold

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy an acoustic performance from Emmy Griswold, blending classic country, jazz, and soft rock melodies.

Scottsdale Networking Event

12–1 p.m. — Arizona School of Real Estate & Business — Cost not specified — Build powerful connections and take your business to new heights at this entrepreneurial gathering.

Engineering for Kids: Cityscape Creators Camp

Morning & Afternoon Sessions — Slick City Action Park — Check website for pricing — Explore creative engineering with CAD design and theme park management.

Aloft Live! Featuring Dave Clark

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy cocktails and light fare while soaking up live music in a laid-back atmosphere.

Scottsdale Networking Event

12-1 p.m. — Arizona School of Real Estate & Business — $25 drop-in donation for guests — Connect and collaborate with local entrepreneurs in a heart-centered community.

George Thorogood & The Destroyers Concert

8-10 p.m. — Showroom at Talking Stick Resort — 21+ only — Rock out to classic hits from the legendary George Thorogood and his band.