Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInCAVE CREEK, AZ (AZFamily) — Take a trip to Cave Creek, and you may smell freshly smoked meat at the entrance of the western town. The aroma will soon lead you to Cryin’ Coyote Barbeque a family-owned restaurant serving tasty BBQ sandwiches Cody and Beth Edgin opened the Cryin’ Coyote near Cave Creek Road and Basin Road after purchasing the restaurant from a previous owner and the family changed the name to represent the coyotes that howl throughout the night in the area “There wasn’t a night that I didn’t go to bed as a child up in Cave Creek where the coyotes weren’t crying and singing me to sleep,” says Cody The family then created their own recipes and implemented some from their grandparents’ to make the mouthwatering menu all of our meat is all smoked in house as well too Cryin’ Coyote offers a variety of smoked meats The restaurant also serves filling plates with your choice of meat and sides and chile relleno rice esquites street corn which is Cody’s great-great-grandmother’s recipe Another side dish is green chili cornbread They also offer a hefty loaded baked potato that’s topped with butter The Cryin’ Coyote sandwiches have a generous portion of meat that will leave you satisfied and wanting more For those who can’t decide which meat to get stacked between a bun with a choice of one side Remember to top off your meal with one of Cryin’ Coyote‘s homemade BBQ sauces the Cryin’ Coyote makes delicious banana pudding and a Texas Sheet Cake which is made with Beth’s grandmother’s recipe and has been in the family for generations The Edgins say 90% of their menu is gluten-free We make it every morning fresh for everybody another important aspect of the Cryin’ Coyote is that the Edgins can run the restaurant as a family “I understand now having our own family-owned business because we get to spend quality time together We get a sense of fulfillment doing it together,” said Cody “It really lends itself to the Cave Creek community as well with our family being here and being able to support everything that goes on in Cave Creek.” The Edgins hope to open more restaurants in the Cave Creek area in the future they are preparing to celebrate their second anniversary on the Fourth of July So that’s been the sentiment and that’s what we‘re trying to share,” said Beth See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description ARIZONA TRAFFIC 4:09 PM | Updated: 5:13 pm BY PAYNE MOSES PHOENIX — The westbound lanes of Loop 101 Pima Freeway were reopened near Cave Creek Road on Friday after a vehicle fire, the Arizona Department of Transportation announced The eastbound lanes were not impacted by the fire Drivers were told to expect delays and to take alternative routes to reach their destination Get the latest KTAR News 92.3 FM traffic alerts sent straight to your phone by texting “TRAFFIC” to 620620 Follow @pwmoses11 Have a story idea or tip? Pass it along to the KTAR News team here Cave Creek announced that Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect through Oct This bans spark-generating activities outdoors unless specifically permitted says this is an unusually long restriction period "Our biggest issue coming into 2025 is not necessarily extreme temperatures yet but it’s the fact that we have a lot of fuel out there and that fuel is very dry," Brewer said bushes and other very flammable plant life He says restrictions are subject to change if the monsoon produces enough moisture Brewer recommends firewise.org to help prepare for wildfire season There was an error; please refresh the page or try again There are no events matching your selection the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant (CCWRP) Rehabilitation Project is going to bring a new and renewable source of purified drinking water to Phoenix water customers the plant delivered recycled water to parks and golf courses before being closed due to a drop in demand in the region the next generation of this plant will produce nearly 7 million gallons of purified water each day which is enough water to serve 25,000 households The water will be used to supply the City’s recycled water customers for parks Groundwater recharge occurs when water seeps into the ground to replenish underground aquifers for later use This project is setting the stage for similar projects planned in the region AWP is a proven technology process that safely and efficiently purifies recycled wastewater into drinking water The water produced is so clean it meets or exceeds federal and local drinking water requirements The existing facility will be upgraded to include Advanced Water Purification, which will turn recycled water produced on-site to drinking water In the early years of the project the water produced will be used to serve recycled water customers and to recharge groundwater supplies. When fully operational the new water will then be available for use in the drinking water system The existing facility will be upgraded to include Advanced Water Purification, which will turn recycled water produced on-site to drinking water the water produced will be used to serve recycled water customers and to recharge groundwater supplies. When fully operational the new water will then be available for use in the drinking water system Reverse Osmosis and Ultraviolet Advanced Oxidation are added to the improved CCWRP water recycling processes to destroy pathogens and disinfect the water to bring the water to drinking water standards. Phoenix relies on surface water for approximately 98% of its supply delivered through an extensive canal system the city has made significant strides in water conservation reducing overall demand even as the population grows climate change and prolonged drought threaten the reliability of surface water supplies Phoenix is investing in Advanced Water Purification (AWP) to create a local renewable water source that is independent of river flows Phoenix is taking a proactive approach to water security Construction has begun at the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant to upgrade the facility with AWP technology the plant will producenearly    7 million gallons of purified water each day which is enough water to serve 25,000 households. The following facilities are being considered to receive AWP technologies to further enhance the City’s water supply. Construction has begun at the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant to upgrade the facility with AWP technology the plant will producenearly 7 million gallons of purified water each day which is enough water to serve 25,000 households. The following facilities are being considered to receive AWP technologies to further enhance the City’s water supply. Subscribe to the monthly Phoenix resident newsletter for updates 200 W. Washington Street Phoenix, AZ 85003 • Map Contact Form • Phone Directory Do you require an accommodation to participate in a City program, service, or activity? Contact the ADA Compliance Program at least five business days before the event Documents are available in alternative formats upon request. Learn more about ADA Compliance Provide feedback about modernized Phoenix.gov City of Phoenix. All rights reserved. Review our privacy policy and statement of commitment. – The Nevada Division of State Parks and the Nevada Department of Wildlife have announced that Cave Creek Reservoir at Cave Lake State Park in eastern Nevada has reached full capacity following the completion of the Cave Creek Dam project The reservoir is now spilling over into the newly constructed dam spillway The Nevada Department of Wildlife is actively working to enhance the fishery by stocking 17,000 fish throughout the spring aiming to ensure a thriving and sustainable resource for anglers Visitors can once again enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities at Cave Lake State Park the public is urged to exercise caution due to a significant amount of debris from vegetation that grew in the dry lakebed during the reconstruction period in cooperation with the Nevada Department of Wildlife and White Pine County will host "Rediscover Cave Lake," a grand reopening event on Saturday with a vendor application deadline of May 7 The event packet and vendor application are available online at parks.nv.gov/events "We invite the community to join us in celebrating the return of Cave Lake and look forward to welcoming visitors back to this beloved Nevada treasure," said the Nevada Division of State Parks A Cave Creek woman texted her coworker about dreams in which she carried out a mass casualty attack Now she is facing a felony charge of making a terrorist threat Court documents show that Keelin Paige Pascoe worked at a Walmart location in Cave Creek when she texted her coworker about a "recurring dream she's been having where she comes to work at Walmart Pascoe said she had been having the dreams about killing her coworkers for five months Police say Pascoe even had a list of 43 people that she would want "to kill or see dead," all of whom her coworker recognized as individuals who work at Walmart Court records show that Pascoe was off work on March 2 and she had indicated she could "do it then." The records show that when the coworker tried to be dismissive about Pascoe's plan "No believes me," and seemed excited about the plan because "that’s how they'll know me." The police say Pascoe has a history of suicide attempts and self-harm she is required to have electronic monitoring and is not allowed to leave her home except during certain hours said the company was cooperating with the police investigation "The safety of our associates and customers is always a top priority," she said "We’re thankful for the partnership with police." Connect with the reporter at olakunle.falayi@gannett.com ARIZONA RESTAURANT NEWS 4:45 AM | Updated: Apr 1 BY ROXANNE DE LA ROSA PHOENIX — Harold’s Cave Creek Corral one of Arizona’s oldest and best-known saloon-style restaurants Carefree residents Jim “Z” and Kris Ziebart recently took over the ownership stake of longtime co-owners Bill and Marie Vale and will run the business alongside fellow co-owners Danny and Meri Piacquadio our dear friends and longtime partners Bill and Marie Vale have decided to pass the torch,” Danny Piacquadio said in a Wednesday press release dedication and passion have helped shape Harold’s into the iconic gathering place it is today supporting local charities and schools and making Harold’s a true Cave Creek institution.” The ownership group plans on adding more live music entertainment and throwing a 90th anniversary party this fall The historic establishment is located at 6895 E. Cave Creek Rd. in Cave Creek New food items on the menu include fried pickles loaded tater tots and a variety of entrees The restaurant opened as a bar in 1935 and was called the Corral Bar to serve the workers of Bartlett Dam, according to the restaurant’s website. it was renamed Harold’s Cave Creek Corral when Harold Gavagan bought the old saloon The 1970s movie “Rafferty and the Gold Dust Twins” was filmed at Harold’s the corral is the meeting place of the Heinz Field West a club of faithful Pittsburgh Steelers fans The restaurant makes sure to tune in and show every Steelers game on the television screens Former co-owner Bill Vale is known as Harold’s mayor and created a community with his restaurant guests The Ziebarts want to continue to grow that sense of community “We have been friends with Bill and Marie for nearly eight years and we have come to love Harold’s and the Cave Creek community,” Jim Ziebart said in the release “Kris and I have tremendous respect for Danny and Meri and our primary goal is to keep Harold’s a locally owned restaurant and support the Harold’s team so they can continue to thrive.” CAVE CREEK, AZ — UPDATE: The district did vote to close down Lone Mountain Elementary Lone Mountain Elementary School is at risk of closing down again The Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD) announced it will reconsider its decision to keep the school open raising concerns among parents and students about the future of their community “[T]he Governing Board has expressed interest in bringing the matter of Lone Mountain Elementary School back for reconsideration and possible Board action.” Earlier this month, the board voted unanimously to close Desert Sun Academy at the end of this school year but keep Lone Mountain Elementary open. Lone Mountain students would be split between two nearby schools with sixth graders currently in elementary school moved to middle school Parents say these shifts would fracture the community "It makes us really sad to think about being separated from our teachers There has to be a better way to keep us together," said one Lone Mountain student before the original vote was taken Superintendent Bill Dolezal acknowledged the emotional toll on families but emphasized community strength “I know it’s emotional—it should be," Superintendent Dolezal said "But the strength of this community has always been the people in it We’re going to need that strength now more than ever.” The Cave Creek Unified School board will hold a special meeting on Monday at 6 p.m to reconsider Lone Mountain Elementary’s fate The public is encouraged to attend and share their thoughts Report a typo World’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball operator supports the market’s active and health-conscious lifestyle while also complementing Terravita’s diversified tenant mix premium indoor courts and offer an unparalleled experience for the area’s high number of pickleballers the world’s fastest-growing operator of indoor pickleball facilities to open a 20,909-square-foot location at Terravita Marketplace in Scottsdale The strategic addition of The Picklr Cave Creek supports the active and health-conscious lifestyle of the communities the center serves – North Scottsdale Carefree and Cave Creek – and provides the high number of pickleballers in the area with a state-of-the-art Founded in 2021 by Austin Wood and Jorge Barragan who grew frustrated by the lack of pickleball facilities available and long wait times associated with securing a court The Picklr has already become the fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise in North America All of The Picklr venues feature top-of-the-line courts and lighting to provide the optimal player experience former NFL quarterback Drew Brees was named Brand Ambassador as well as Owner/Area Developer of 30 Picklr franchises “We pride ourselves on adding value for our shareholders and the neighborhoods we serve by being very strategic and disciplined in our approach to leasing and The Picklr Cave Creek exhibits many of the characteristics we look for in the tenants we choose to partner with,” stated Dave Holeman The Picklr is a major all-day traffic driver that is well-regarded for being best-in-class and fostering community engagement as we have seen from our partnership with The Picklr McKinney at Eldorado Plaza in Dallas it is a catalyst for contributing to the growth of the surrounding tenants by boosting their sales and increasing the frequency of customer visits This is a highly respected operation and we are pleased to expand our relationship with them.” The Picklr Cave Creek will be located next to Ace Hardware and is expected to open to the public in the second half of 2025 The eight-court facility will host league competitions climate-controlled environment to hone their skillsets without having to battle the dryness and heat associated with Arizona summers surrounded by the neighborhoods of Whispering Rock Estates Desert Mountain and the Boulders Community enables pickleballers to play on their preferred schedules during their lunch breaks or after the sun sets “Greater Phoenix is made up of active-minded families and individuals who prioritize their own health and well-being and pickleball has exploded in popularity as a result,” commented Christine Mastandrea the limited number of courts currently available simply do not come close to satisfying the needs of the community we are helping to solve some of these supply constraints while also supporting the preferred lifestyle of the market.” Situated with a 15-minute drive from TSMC’s semiconductor fabrication facility and historic downtown Cave Creek Terravita offers a diverse range of amenities and services to meet the needs of its discerning clientele The center is surrounded by the prestigious gated golf course residential community of Terravita and average household income within a 15-minute drive of the property is in excess of $200,000 Among Terravita’s flagship tenants include First Watch Matt Okmin and Jason Bowles of Whitestone represented the company in the lease process Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) is a community-centered real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires retail centers located in some of the fastest growing markets in the country: Phoenix This Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws including discussion and analysis of our financial condition pending acquisitions and the impact of such acquisitions on our financial condition and results of operations anticipated capital expenditures required to complete projects amounts of anticipated cash distributions to our shareholders in the future and other matters These forward-looking statements are not historical facts but are the intent belief or current expectations of our management based on its knowledge and understanding of our business and industry Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “predicts,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” or the negative of such terms and variations of these words and similar expressions although not all forward-looking statements include these words These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements made in this Report include: the imposition of federal income taxes if we fail to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) in any taxable year or forego an opportunity to ensure REIT status; uncertainties related to the national economy the real estate industry in general and in our specific markets; legislative or regulatory changes including changes to laws governing REITs; adverse economic or real estate developments or conditions in Texas or Arizona including the potential impact of COVID-19 on our tenants’ ability to pay their rent which could result in bad debt allowances or straight-line rent reserve adjustments; inflation and increases in interest rates operating costs or general and administrative expenses; availability and terms of capital and financing both to fund our operations and to refinance our indebtedness as it matures; decreases in rental rates or increases in vacancy rates; litigation risks; lease-up risks including leasing risks arising from exclusivity and consent provisions in leases with significant tenants; our inability to renew tenant leases or obtain new tenant leases upon the expiration of existing leases; our inability to generate sufficient cash flows due to market conditions changes in tax or other applicable laws; geopolitical conflicts such as the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine; the need to fund tenant improvements or other capital expenditures out of operating cash flow; and the risk that we are unable to raise capital for working capital acquisitions or other uses on attractive terms or at all and other factors detailed in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time For Whitestone REIT – InvestorsDavid Mordy(713) 435-2219ir@whitestonereit.com For Whitestone REIT – Media:Matthew ChudobaWhitestonePR@icrinc.com and the reservoir is already overflowing into the recently built dam spillway With the completion of the Cave Creek Dam project the Nevada Division of State Parks and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) are happy to report that Cave Creek Reservoir at Cave Lake State Park has officially reached full capacity working together with the Nevada Department of Wildlife and White Pine County will be hosting a grand reopening celebration for 'Rediscover Cave Lake' on Saturday The Nevada Division of State Parks says they look forward to welcoming visitors back to this beloved Nevada treasure and ask the community to join them in celebrating Cave Lake's return and outdoor activities all day long at this event Additional information will be released about the event in the near future In order to ensure a healthy and sustainable resource for fishermen NDOW says it is also actively working to rehabilitate and improve the fishery by stocking 17,000 fish throughout the spring The Nevada Division of State Parks says visitors can once again take advantage of Cave Lake State Park's scenic splendor and recreational options thanks to the reservoir's complete restoration and ongoing work to improve the fishery as there will likely be a large amount of debris from plants that grew in the dry lakebed during the reconstruction period they are warning the public to use caution when recreating in the lake For more information on this event and how you can participate or volunteer, go to this page on the Nevada Division of State Parks website. According to the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) the refilling of Cave Lake has already begun as construction to repair the nearly 90-year-old Cave Creek Dam bringing it up to date and to code reaches completion NDOW says the project which began in October of 2019 included an expanded spillway and improvements to the low-level buttress as well as the installation of over 200 artificial habitat structures in the lake itself which will help in establishing a healthy fish population in the future “This is a big step in turning Cave Lake back into a destination spot for visitors from all over the state a lot of people and a lot of different agencies have worked very hard on this project and we’re finally starting to see the results They say the project was made possible through critical funding sources and both state and federal contributions through the coordination of the Nevada Public Works Division NDOW says according to its Fisheries biologist Heath Korell one of their leads on the Cave Lake project the process of refilling the lake could take up to nine months for the lake's water levels to return to their pre-project levels and that as those levels return NDOW will re-establish brown trout and rainbow trout populations to the lake as well as introduce smallmouth bass NDOW says Cave Lake is located in Cave Lake State Park and outdoor enthusiasts for residents and non-residents alike the park averaged more than 63,000 visitors annually NDOW says the draining of the lake began in October of 2021 and it reached the minimum pool in January of 2022 Cave Lake State Park’s campgrounds and trails remained open NDOW says that once all of the construction equipment is fully removed from the area day-use restrooms will remain closed until further maintenance is completed Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Check out these fun events happening around the Valley on March 28-30 Ballet Arizona Presents "Spring Mix" When: Friday - SundayWhere: Orpheum TheaterCost: Tickets start at $35 Ballet Arizona’s Spring Mix takes the stage at the Orpheum Theatre from March 27–30 This dynamic program launches the spring ballet season with a trio of captivating performances each offering a unique story through movement Featuring masterful choreography from both rising talents and renowned visionaries Spring Mix delivers an unforgettable experience—like a collection of short stories told through dance MLB Opening Weekend: Chicago Cubs vs. Arizona Diamondbacks PhoenixCost: Click here for ticket information The Arizona Diamondbacks will host the Chicago Cubs at Chase Field in the first series of the regular season LPGA Ford Championship When: Friday - SundayWhere: Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass The LPGA is teeing it up in the desert this week at Whirlwind Golf Club for the second edition of the Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass 48th Annual Cave Creek Rodeo Days When: Friday - SundayWhere: Cave Creek Memorial ArenaCost: Click here for ticket information the sport of Rodeo has been alive and kicking in the Sonoran Desert The Cave Creek Rodeo consists of three action-packed days of PRCA Rodeo performances and more to round out a weeklong celebration of an Arizona town’s Western Heritage Oh My Ears (OME) Music Festival When: Friday - SundayWhere: Multiple venues in downtown PhoenixCost: $20 tickets The OME New Music Festival is an annual event where we invite unique and adventurous ensembles and projects to perform works by modern composers The OME Festival has historically featured its performers in an eclectic variety of venues from traditional concert halls to art galleries Garden Bros Nuclear Circus When: Friday - SundayWhere: Phoenix RacewayCost: $35 general admission Embark on an extraordinary journey with Jr The Clown in "Jr’s Big Adventure" at Garden Bros fully immersive virtual reality experience where Jr travels the World to explore various Circus performing artists Phoenix Film Festival When: Friday - SundayWhere: Harkins Scottsdale 101Cost: Tickets start at $17 The Phoenix Film Festival is held all in one place making your festival experience that much more fun all screenings are at the Harkins Scottsdale 101 Theatre Moonlit Movies on the Green: Moana 2 When: 6:30 p.m.Where: Verde at Cooley Station Grab your blankets and join us for Moonlit Movies on the Green Bring the whole family for an unforgettable movie night with a magical island adventure Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan When: 7:30 p.m.Where: Phoenix ArenaCost: Tickets start at $35 Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan will be working together once again on a 10-arena tour in 2025 following the success of their first tour in 2023 The tour will make a stop at Phoenix Arena on Friday Native Art Market provides a space for Native Americans to sell authentic handmade goods while fostering cultural connections it has generated millions for Native artists ensuring only genuine Native art is showcased Jersey Boys When: Friday - SundayWhere: Hormel Theatre at The Phoenix Theatre CompanyCost: Tickets start at $59 Are you ready to be transported back to the gritty streets of the sizzling 1960s rock ‘n’ roll scene Jersey Boys takes you on an energizing jukebox journey tracing the meteoric rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from blue-collar obscurity to the dizzying heights of pop superstardom Last Weekend: Arizona Renaissance Festival Time travel to the greatest party since Camelot Take a stroll through the colorful Village of Fairhaven and interactive entertainment like no place else Shop an abundance of arts and crafts in the village open-air artisan market with games and rides Last Weekend: Wicked on Tour The Broadway sensation looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.” Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns Where: Phoenix ArenaCost: Tickets start around $40 The Phoenix Suns will host the Houston Rockets on Sunday at 6 p.m the district made the decision to close Desert Sun Academy at the end of the school year Students will move to Horseshoe Trails Elementary Lone Mountain Elementary School will remain open See the latest reporting in the video player below: staff speak out over concerns of possible Cave Creek school closures and staff of two different elementary schools in Cave Creek expressed their concerns over the possible closure of their schools The Cave Creek Unified School District and its board are looking at possibly closing Lone Mountain Elementary and Desert Sun Academy This was a recommendation by a focus group tasked with figuring out what could be done about the continued declining enrollment in the district According to a presentation to the school board in December enrollment for the district decreased by more than 800 students in 10 years in the smaller school district “We’re graduating 400 seniors and we’re only bringing in 200-220 kindergartners which means declining funds,” said Superintendent Bill Dolezal Dolezal said capacity at all five elementary schools is currently at 47% it really is looking at becoming more efficient in order to serve our students,” Dolezal said the possible closure of those two schools would impact more than 600 students “This proposal needs to be rejected so that there's more time to make the best decisions for students,” two students of Lone Mountain Elementary told the school board in the forum Desert Sun Academy parent Marla Riney told ABC15 she’s not surprised with the closure recommendation of her child’s school “It is a very sad time for any district to have to close schools but having been involved with the district actively for both bonds and overrides this is a realistic need for our community Do you have a concern in your community or a news tip Connect with us: share@abc15.com Facebook | Instagram | YouTube some other parents feel like they’re getting the short end of the stick The proposal says Desert Sun Academy students would be moved to one school – Horseshoe Trails Elementary - while Lone Mountain Elementary students would be split into two schools Black Mountain Elementary and Desert Willow Elementary The plan would also move sixth graders from elementary schools into middle schools family members are going to be divided amongst the other schools That part of it has really been hard,” said Natalie May a second-grade teacher at Lone Mountain Elementary Several parents and educators spoke out in the meeting proposing a solution: combine both Desert Sun Academy and Lone Mountain Elementary I think we need more time to come up with another solution,” said Chris Herrera it's always been the people that live in it and we're going to need that strength now more than ever,” Dolezal said Dolezal mentioned that they hope to find positions for their teachers based on their human resources attrition estimates The school board has the last say in the matter and will potentially vote on the recommendations on Tuesday Only one elementary school will close in the Cave Creek Unified School District after the Governing Board decided against closing two the staff recommendation made to the board Desert Sun Academy will close effective July 1 11 meeting to move sixth-grade students out of elementary schools and into Sonoran Trails Middle School all the district's elementary schools will be kindergarten through fifth grade Several community members spoke during the public comment portion of the board meeting in support of the closures referencing the cost of keeping schools that are not at capacity open Some parents said it was important to ensure there was enough funding in the district for other programs and sports One parent expressed disappointment that the district did not go out for a bond or override measure recently A 2021 bond measure and a 2022 override measure both failed a teacher in the district with two children who go to school there spoke on behalf of the Facilities Focus Group which was established in May 2024 and met over eight months to examine how the district could best use its facilities The group ultimately recommended the closures of Desert Sun and Lone Mountain elementary schools despite criticism that the group was "rushed or frivolous" with its decision-making the group deliberated for over 20 hours and considered different options Kniffen said that the group included faculty from both schools and that the recommendation was unanimous we had to face a hard truth," Kniffen said we can no longer afford the luxury of maintaining five elementary schools." Impacting Arizona education: What does US Department of Education do for Arizona schools and students? The school district lost about a quarter of its students over the past five years Arizona's education voucher program has cut into the population of students who might otherwise enroll in Cave Creek Unified Before the voucher program was expanded in 2022 to all Arizona students about 100 kids living in Cave Creek Unified's boundaries received vouchers That number has since ballooned to about 1,000 Superintendent Bill Dolezal said that deciding whether to close schools is one of the toughest choices a district can make and that this year's closure proposal was one of the toughest he has made in his 32 years in education But closing schools would result in a more fiscally sound district The board was unanimous in its decision to close Desert Sun Students at Desert Sun will move to Horseshoe Trails Elementary School Families will receive details regarding transition plans such as school tours and welcoming activities Board member Brianna Walker voted against closing Lone Mountain Closing a school would not solve the problem of declining enrollment Walker said the district should capitalize on the attention the closure plan was getting to campaign for what the district actually needs — more money The school district last passed a bond in 2014 and an override in 2011 Board President Janet Greer-Busbee and board Member Jeff Fortney voted to close the school Member Dan Moore voted against the measure Ulmer's decision was met with gasps in the crowd and scattered clapping Ulmer said she based her decision on what seems to be a renewed commitment to finding funds for the district "I think everybody is committed to saving our district and to really get out there and be innovative — to think outside the box maybe for the first time in a long time," Ulmer said a restaurant going into its 90th year in operation located in Cave Creek on the northern edge of the metro Phoenix area at 6895 E recently had half of its ownership stake sold The restaurant’s ownership announced in late March that Bill and Marie Vale who have been part owners of Harold’s for more than two decades have sold their share of the restaurant to a married couple who live nearby in Carefree Read more of this story from the Business Journal. a fast-growing Utah-based chain of indoor pickleball facilities is expanding its footprint in the Phoenix area with a new location coming to the North Scottsdale and Cave Creek area The Picklr will open in a 20,909-square-foot space at Terravita Marketplace at 34402 N will have eight indoor courts and will be located next to Ace Hardware It is expected to open in the second half of 2025 The Picklr Cave Creek will mark the fifth location in the Valley for the company – and sixth in the state of Arizona with a location in Tucson since it began its expansion into the Phoenix metro in 2023 The Picklr has more than 500 locations across the U.S and former NFL quarterback Drew Brees is an investor Read more of this story from the Business Journal. Experience AZ Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill a beloved Scottsdale staple known for its authentic yet innovative Mexican cuisine officially opened its second location last month in Cave Creek After more than ten years of delighting guests in Scottsdale Salt + Lime has expanded into the heart of this North Valley neighborhood to offer a vibrant dining experience for locals and visitors alike MORE NEWS: Phoenix bucket list: 25 things you must do INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here Located at 28260 Tatum Blvd. in Cave Creek on the corner of Tatum and Dynamite boulevards the new Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill boasts an expansive space designed to capture the lively spirit of Mexican culture The 3,809-square-foot restaurant offers a modern ambiance with pops of color that immerses guests in an atmosphere filled with energy and flavor The highlight of the new location is the spacious outdoor patio which overlooks Tatum Boulevard The area is perfect for those who enjoy dining al fresco while taking in the Arizona sunshine or picturesque sunsets The patio is an ideal spot for gathering with friends and family and enjoying delicious Mexican cuisine in a dynamic setting Salt + Lime is known for its commitment to serving only the finest authentic Mexican dishes Guests can kick off their experience with unlimited chips and salsa which benefits the restaurant’s Chips for Charity initiative a program where each month a portion of the proceeds from all chips and salsa sales go to a different non-profit organization guests can savor crowd favorites such as juicy carnitas tacos In addition to traditional Mexican offerings Salt + Lime also serves up signature dishes with a twist giving guests the perfect blend of classic flavors and creative flair top off each meal with delectable desserts including freshly made sopapillas guests can indulge in refreshing beverages including a curated selection of beers making the dining experience truly unforgettable “We are beyond excited to join the Cave Creek community and bring our passion for authentic Mexican cuisine to this vibrant neighborhood,” said Sandra Van Deraa “Our goal has always been to create a space where locals can gather This close-knit neighborhood has already welcomed us with open arms and we are excited to continue to grow alongside it.” The restaurant is set to continue its growth with the opening of a third location in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix Guests can look forward to even more opportunities to experience the vivid flavors and inviting atmosphere that Salt + Lime has become known for For more information about Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill and to stay up to date on its latest offerings, visit www.saltandlimeaz.com or follow the restaurant on Instagram @saltandlimeaz Copyright © 2025 AZ Big Media | All Rights Reserved | Site by Blufish The forward progress on the Cahava Fire near Cave Creek has been halted Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical announced Thursday morning Working alongside Tonto National Forest crews firefighters closely monitored the fire overnight and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical also warned that the lack of winter rain has increased the likelihood of brush fires Residents near brush-prone areas are advised to create a "defensible space" around their homes by maintaining a clearance of 70 to 100 feet between flammable materials and structures A brush fire had burned approximately 200 acres near Cave Creek as of Wednesday evening According to Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical Captain Mike Snodgrass the unnamed brush fire was inaccessible by foot and vehicle and not a threat to any structures The fire was burning near Cahava Ranch Road and Rockaway Hills Drive Daisy Mountain fire crews responded at around 11 a.m on Wednesday morning and remained on scene The cause of the fire was unknown at this time the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management and Tonto National Forest were monitoring the fire and will be patrolling throughout the night In an update posted to Facebook early Wednesday evening some residents may see the glow of the fire in this inaccessible area of state trust land and Daisy Mountain Fire District and the Tonto National Forest crews...will be able to protect any homes with fire equipment if needed." Cave Creek residents can download the free CodeRed app to stay up to date on emergencies and utility outages (This story has been updated to add new information and a gallery.) peppers and other items filled the floor and stacks of crates volunteers quickly unpacked and sorted them executive director of the Foothills Food Bank as volunteers sorted and packed boxes for transportation around the region The Cave Creek-based food bank serves about 200 square miles in the northern reaches of Phoenix northern Maricopa County and southern Yavapai County it operates out of a converted single-family home But it will move into a new building to expand its food distribution capacity early next year The food bank is leasing three acres of land from the town of Cave Creek and the new building will also include some office space for the town’s use 15,000-square-foot building will triple the organization’s capacity for space for food sorting packing and distribution and will have a test kitchen a client choice pantry and increased refrigeration and food storage space Construction on the site is expected to be finished by the end of the year and the food bank will move to the new site in January and open there in February The additional space will also provide room to have meetings with people who come to the food bank to learn about their individual circumstances and connect them with other resources like rent assistance health services and other areas that could help “Very rarely is someone food insecure and yet everything else is going great,” Zydonik said The food bank’s main headquarters has been based in the converted single-family home for about 10 years and the space has already been expanded once and a pantry where clients can come through and “shop” for the food they want But configuration has also left the food bank confined on space and limiting the amount of food that can be stored the organization hired an architect to evaluate the space and see what could be done to improve it But the realities of being located in a single-family residential area with very little available parking and few options for entrances made any modifications very difficult “It was kind of a safety nightmare,” Zydonik said The food bank looked for other sites that could accommodate a new development but didn’t have any luck finding something that would work she approached the town leadership and asked what they should do The town owns land on Carefree Highway and 41st Street including the 3 acres that will be leased to the food bank Funding for the new facility came mostly from donations and grants including estate donations and a grant from the Virginia G the food bank was seeking to raise $6.5 million to fund the development Most of the food that the food bank distributes comes from the grocery rescue program Participating stores give food items that are nearing expiration to the food bank to distribute to those who need it Foothills Food Bank gets food from more than 30 stores in the area including fresh produce and shelf-stable food The food bank has about 325 active volunteers and 11 paid staff members to keep the food bank near its current location where the volunteers and stores that supply the food are and distribute the food to where it’s needed About 14% of people who live in the food bank’s service area are food insecure including people who live in affluent areas like Cave Creek “The need in the Cave Creek and Carefree area is very hidden,” Zydonik said Many of the people who live in the area who come to the food bank are elderly and some have depleted their savings and remain on fixed incomes and there are some working poor in this area,” she said the food bank also has pantries in New River and Black Canyon City as well as mobile pantries and mini pantries across the service area the food bank collected 1.83 million pounds of food which provided about 788,000 meals to people in the service area Zydonik said the facility’s expanded capacity won’t expand the service area but instead will let the food bank go deeper into the community and reach more people within the region Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter @CorinaVanek PHOENIX — Phoenix police officers were involved in a shooting late Monday night near Cave Creek Road and Union Hills Drive to investigate reports of a domestic dispute between a man and his mother The man had an outstanding warrant and had access to knives was inside the home and armed with knives. Hermosillo reportedly failed to comply with orders to drop the knives and moved toward the room his mother was in while still armed. One officer fired his gun and struck Hermosillo While officers were attempting to take Hermosillo into custody he failed to follow additional commands to put his hands behind his back Officers then used less-lethal means to get him into custody Police say Hermosillo suffered non-life-threatening injuries and has already been released from the hospital. Hermosillo is expected to be booked into jail on multiple felony charges.