NE Valley Times

Scottsdale's Neighborhood Advisory Commission has announced the recipients of the 2024 Spirit of Scottsdale Awards. This annual recognition honors individuals and organizations that contribute to the community's well-being and aesthetic beauty.

The individual award for 2024 was given to John and Mary Garbaciak, who have been volunteering their time to enhance the city's roads. The couple has been part of the Scottsdale Adopt-a-Road Program, committed to cleaning Shea Boulevard between 108th and 116th Streets two to three times a month since late 2018.

The business recognition for 2024 was granted to Clayton Companies. This family-owned enterprise has spent nearly 40 years developing and renovating properties in Old Town/South Scottsdale. Recently, they completed a significant renovation of a retail center near Hayden Road, preserving a Polynesian-themed Dairy Queen and incorporating it into the design of the modernized center.

A total of 12 nominations were received this year, showcasing various community contributors including individuals like Joe Previte, founder of Cowork With Friends, and businesses like LevRose Commercial Real Estate. The nominees were celebrated on March 18 during a Scottsdale City Council meeting.

"As part of this project, they moved a Polynesian-themed Dairy Queen that was slated for demolition and remodeled the retail center around it," said a representative of Clayton Companies, reflecting on their commitment to preserving local history.

The 2025 nomination period is set to open in May.