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THE FEATURE
What’s the progress on the old PV Mall area?
PV Mall is gone, and the corner near Tatum and Cactus finally has life again. The redevelopment is bringing restaurants, shops, new housing and gathering spots to the old mall site, even as construction continues across the near 100-acre property.
We took a closer look at what’s open now, which businesses are on the way, and how to make a weekend out of a place that many of us still remember as a shopping mall. If you haven't been by lately, the changes are worth seeing.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Two Scottsdale schools will close. What happens to the students?
On October 6, Scottsdale Unified's Governing Board voted 3-2 to close Copper Ridge School and Laguna Prep after the 2026-27 school year.
WHY THE DISTRICT SAYS IT’S CLOSING SCHOOLS
Declining enrollment. KJZZ reports that Scottsdale Unified has 26% fewer students than in 2010.
About 700 students at the two schools are expected to be reassigned after the 2026–27 school year. Under the approved consolidation option, Copper Ridge students are expected to move to Desert Canyon. Laguna Prep students would be divided among Redfield, Anasazi and Cochise elementary schools.
Families still need final school assignments, classroom-size information and transportation plans from the district.
SUSD FALL BREAK
October 12–16. Classes resume Monday, October 19. The break is unrelated to the closure vote.
TRY THIS FOR DINNER
Halloween dinner, no magic required
We shared this Halloween dinner in Friday's newsletter, but it's worth a second look if you missed it. Jack-o'-lantern stuffed peppers, a warm spiderweb bean dip, and an orange-and-black fruit bowl make one very good-looking spread. Even the little wizard reaching into our photo couldn't resist.
It serves four, takes about 50 minutes, and everything cooks at 375°F. The peppers are filled with a taco-style mixture, the bean dip is meant for sharing, and the fruit adds something fresh before a night of trick-or-treating.
All the Halloween fun, with an actual dinner underneath it.
WAIT, YOU CAN DO THAT AROUND SHEA?
Ask a Master Gardener what to plant in your yard, for FREE
Have a question about what will actually grow in your yard? University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners are coming to Mustang Library for a short fall-planting talk and live Q&A.
Cost: Free
Date: Saturday, October 17
Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th St., Scottsdale
Ages: 18+
Your library card can get two people into museums, for FREE
A Scottsdale library card can get you free general admission for two at participating museums, including Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Western Spirit. Ask branch staff for a Culture Pass receipt. Passes are first-come, first-served and can't be reserved online.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Museum Passes last seven days. One per household at a time, up to two per month. Reservations, admission restrictions and availability depend on the museum.
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND
Kick-off Halloween at Arizona Boardwalk
Weekend event presented by Wounded Women Warriors.
The Scottsdale Sparkle Halloween Market brings more than 60 vendors, crafts and gifts, trick-or-treating, costume characters and other festivities to the Arizona Boardwalk.
Dates: Saturday–Sunday, October 17–18
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Location: Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale
Cost: Free entry to the outdoor market; Boardwalk attractions require separate tickets
Ages: Family-friendly, with activities for children
Try a guided desert walk this Saturday
If you’re getting back out on the trails this fall, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is leading a free, easy walk at Gateway Trailhead on Saturday. Guides will point out desert plants, wildlife and features of the landscape along the way.
When: Saturday, October 17, 8–10 a.m.
Where: Gateway Trailhead, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale
Arrive: 15 minutes early
Bring: Water and snacks
Cost: Free; registration required and spaces are limited
Check for an open spot and reserve through the Conservancy before going.
Local stories we’re following:
7 Brew Coffee takes over Salad & Go: We’re taking a closer look at what’s replacing the former Salad & Go locations.
Jacksons rebuild on Tatum: We visited the grand re-opening of the local favorite car wash and gas station. Expect both updates on Friday, October 16.
Scottsdale's license-plate readers: City Council voted to develop stronger rules for the cameras, including penalties for misuse. We're following what makes it into the proposal expected back December 1.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Storm prep that actually matters in Phoenix
After the recent rain around Shea, it’s worth checking a few things around the house. Clogged roof drains, weakened branches and loose patio furniture are easy to overlook until the next storm.
Our original five-point guide covers the simple checks that can prevent expensive headaches, plus what to do when streets flood.
ASK YOUR NEIGHBORS
What would you most like to find in a twice-weekly Around Shea newsletter?
Have a tip or question about something changing around Shea?
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