Friday, February 27, 2026

More National History Day photos East Valley contest

The students were rockin' all day at Chandler, U of A, East Valley contest. Judges, volunteers, parents, friends . . . it takes a village!























Calvin C. Goode's nephew Kerry Goode continues family’s legacy of public service

Kerry Goode continues family’s legacy of public service

Posted 

The Phoenix Convention Center is stepping into 2026 with a series of significant improvements designed to elevate the guest experience and keep the facility looking fresh.

From refreshed interiors to cutting-edge technology, the upgrades span multiple levels and areas of the facility. Visitors will notice new furniture throughout the pre-function lobbies and brand-new carpet installations across key spaces, including the Lower Level, West Building 200 and 300 levels, and the West Building Arcade. Additional carpet installations for the North Building 100 and 200 levels are scheduled for spring 2026.

“We are committed to constantly improving our facility,” stated Assistant Director Bob Fingerman in a news release. “We want every attendee to feel the quality and care that goes into maintaining our incredible venue.”

Other enhancements include new exterior trash cans, AV upgrades and LED display walls in the Lower Level, which will provide dynamic visual capabilities for events. Performance spaces are also getting a boost with new stages for meetings and entertainment, along with assembly tables, banquet tables and a new dance floor to accommodate a variety of event formats.

Accessibility remains a priority, with the installation of a wheelchair lift, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the venue’s offerings.

One of the most striking additions will be exterior uplighting on Third Street, set for installation in February and March. This feature will allow the Phoenix Convention Center to illuminate its exterior walls and windows with an array of vibrant colors, creating a striking presence in downtown Phoenix.

“This uplighting project is going to transform the way people see the Convention Center at night,” Fingerman stated. “It’s not just functional — it’s a statement piece for us. We want to be able to highlight our beautiful facility even after the sun goes down.”

The Phoenix Convention Center spent roughly $5 million for these projects, highlighting the facility’s prioritization of maintaining the venue’s reputation as a premier destination for meetings and events. 

https://www.yourvalley.net/stories/kerry-goode-continues-familys-legacy-of-public-service,664911

Winners of annual 3rd grade postcard contest announced


Congrats to our 21 Finalists for the 2026 Postcard Contest! Dr. Kristen Rex announced them. Historical League is a proud supporter of this program.

A big thank you to all the students and teachers who participated! These talented young artists were selected for their outstanding creativity and thoughtful designs celebrating Arizona's history and the 5 C's.

Please note: The winners will be announced on Friday once all votes have been finalized!
Prizes:
- A hosted Pizza Party (courtesy of the Historical League)
- A swag bag filled with art supplies and Arizona Historical Society goodies
- Their winning design is professionally printed on postcards available for purchase at any Arizona Historical Society Museum.
The 21 finalist designs were proudly showcased at both the Arizona History Museum and the Arizona Heritage Center for Statehood Day on Saturday, February 14. Visitors had the opportunity to view the artwork and cast their votes for their favorite.
In addition to public voting, judging panels from the Tempe Historical League, the Arizona Historical Society, and the K12 Coalition carefully reviewed each finalist submission.
Thank you again for all the participating students, teachers, families, and community partners who made this year's contest such a success. We look forward to announcing the winners soon! Here are some of the designs.












Wednesday, February 25, 2026

David Smith: Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame 2026 Inductee

 Congrats to David Smith, Inductee into Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, husband of Arizona Historymaker Co-Chair Diana Smith, and all around great guy! Don't forget his dedication to National History Day also!

David Smith has devoted decades to strengthening Scottsdale through public service, fiscal stewardship, and community engagement. A former Scottsdale City Council member and the city’s Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, David championed transparent governance, responsible budgeting, and long-term financial planning. He further advanced civic involvement as chair of the Citizen’s Budget Review Committee, ensuring residents had a voice in shaping Scottsdale’s financial future.
Beyond government service, David has made significant philanthropic and cultural contributions. He is a dedicated Board of Trustees member and treasurer for Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, supporting the preservation and celebration of the American West. David and his wife, Diana, also strengthened the local business community as co-owners of Scottsdale Airpark News, a publication that highlighted Scottsdale’s growth and entrepreneurial spirit.
With a career rooted in integrity, public service, and civic pride, David Smith’s enduring contributions have helped shape Scottsdale into the vibrant community it is today.
Preserve The Future By Honoring The Past!
Friday, May 15, 2026
6:00-6:45pm Cocktail Reception
7:00-9:00pm Program & Dinner
5001 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250










Sunday, February 22, 2026

National History Day East Valley Contest February 2026

 Enthusiastic students: eager to show their exhibits, perform, support their papers, open their websites. 

Judges: happy to help, give constructive critiques.

Parents: delighted to see their children expand their horizons. 

Volunteers: ready be of service.

National History Day: such a valuable program.






















Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Calvin C. Goode, 2023 Historymaker, legacy continues with affordable housing plans


 Calvin C. Goode's sons plan to turn late Phoenix council member's house, office into affordable housing. (Source: 2/14/2026 Daily Independent at yourvalley.net)

Honored as an Arizona Historymaker in 2023, Calvin Goode's legacy continues with his sons' plans.