MGM’s “The Wizard of Oz” is the rare film adaptation that has officially become even more cherished than the timeless book that inspired it. Over the years, “The Wizard of Oz” has influenced numerous sequels, prequels, and reimaginings in just about every entertainment medium. Although there have certainly been some good additions to the “Oz” franchise, it’s unfortunate all of them must live in the shadow of an unbeatable classic. While nothing will ever top the Judy Garland version, the most we can ask from a modern “Oz” interpretation is that it remains true to L. Frank Baum’s universe while also sprinkling in something fresh. On that basis, Director Sam Raimi sufficiently delivers in his vibrant and fun “Oz the Great and Powerful.”

Joe Arpaio is the best sheriff ever in the history of Maricopa County! No, he’s the worst Maricopa County sheriff ever!

The recently publicized raise to $500,000 a year for the manager of the Maricopa County Hospital System along with a host of other outlandish pay raises for local public servants can only be described as legalized robbery. Those raises and associated benefits (pensions) are terrible burdens to pass on to the next generations. The pitiful rationale given for all the publicized raises, “This puts our officials on a salary par with comparable office holders,” is ludicrous.” When the U.S. president earns $400,000 per year, the Supreme Court chief justice earns $223,500 per year, and a senator earns $174,000 per year, one wonders why some public officials earn more than that and why they should.

NEW YORK — While American Airlines and US Airways announced plans to merge Thursday, it will be several months — if not years — before passengers see any significant impact.

While most men pushing 70 are spending their twilight years on the golf course, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone are still packing heat. Many modern actors have attempted to rein supreme as the definitive action star of this generation, such as Jason Statham, Vin Diesel, and The Rock. Yet, none have come close to headlining a franchise on par with “The Terminator” or “Rambo.” Although Arnold and Sylvester may not be the most phenomenal talents ever to grace the big screen, it’s difficult not to be won over by their charisma and unrelenting bloodlust. Even in an era of so much fresh blood, they’re still easily the kings of action…with exception to maybe Bruce Willis.

A new report from the federal government shows that women in Arizona are much more likely to be paid on par with men than in most other states.

It turns out 2012 wasn't a total wash. The year had a little bit of everything - zombies, spies and fighting tycoons.

After bountifuls of birdies, a new state record and a championship, Hannah O’Sullivan’s hands were still shaking.

Matt Liringis likes to be in control.

The Naughty!

The measure of success at Ahwatukee Foothills schools during the fall season seems to get higher with each passing school year.

The Suns have dubbed their Dec. 6 game against Dallas as “Satisfaction Guarantee Night.” If you don’t have a great time watching Phoenix attempt like the dickens to beat the Mavericks, you can simply saunter up to the ticket window and ask for your money back.

“Just the facts, ma’am” may be the philosophy of the newsroom, but colorful stories of intrigue and passion are the lifeblood of music. Cal Stewart Kellogg, conductor of the Youth Symphony of the Southwest, likes to emphasize that to his students and audience members.

Paige Peterson heard the rumblings, didn’t want to believe it, but at the same knew how fickle the game of golf is so he wasn’t going to discard it.

The girls golf season came to an end Saturday with three local golfers participating in the Division I state tournament at Aguila Golf Course in Laveen.

The strategy seemed a bit strange, but there’s no arguing with the results.

TUCSON — The Division II boys golf state tournament is an annual two-day event that ends the high school season. But based on how the scores came in following Tuesday's final round of play, the tourney could have been called after Monday's first round at Silverbell Golf Course.

2012 Boys Golf State Tournaments

After finishing round one of the Division I girls golf state tournament in first place Friday with a 4-under 68, Xavier freshman Hannah O’Sullivan was hoping to come back Saturday and do the same exact thing.

Desert Vista at Chandler

There was a time when Madi Woodward took 21 strokes.

Hey, you have to admit it was a hell of a September, huh?