The big question indirectly posted by this week's issue: So, is the economy rebounding?
I don't know the answer to that question, and, frankly, I don't think anybody else does, either.
However, Stephen Phinny, the developer behind the controversial northwest-side Saguaro Ranch development, thinks his fortunes (Saguaro Ranch is currently in Chapter 11 bankruptcy) will be turning around after Thanksgiving. And they'd better, for his sake: Saguaro Ranch reportedly hasn't sold a lot since early 2008. Check out Mari Herreras' feature on the battle between Phinny and his neighbors on Page 18.
In Currents, two of our three stories directly deal with the economy. On Page 13, Dave Devine examines a higher licensing-fee structure placed on child-care facilities by the state, thanks to the $2 billion deficit Arizona finds itself in; on Page 15, Jim Nintzel discusses the efforts of Gov. Jan Brewer and the state Legislature to bridge that $2 billion gap.
Finally, in an effort to jump-start the holiday spending that all of the economists say is so darned important, we offer you, our dear readers, our annual holiday Gift Guide. It's packed with profiles on cool local independent stores, information on some intriguing indie books that could make fine gifts, and tidbits on hot new video games and techie gadgets.
All that, and more, in this issue of the Tucson Weekly, which we offer to you, as always ... for free!
