Say hello to Paradise Valley’s new Mayor, Mark Stanton! But wait—did you know Hall of Fame Media Personality Dave Pratt has been affectionately called “The Mayor” for over 40 years? Read as Mayor Pratt interviews Mayor Stanton, sharing laughs, stories, and their love for Arizona.
Congrats on the new role, Mayor Stanton! What excites you most about stepping into this title?
I am humbled to be elected as Mayor of Paradise Valley. Serving on the Town Council for a decade, twice elected by my colleagues as Vice Mayor, has been an honor. I’m excited to work with our engaged residents, dedicated council members, and exceptional staff to serve this remarkable community.
What are your main agenda items?
Primary goals include protecting the low density, maintaining limited government and, most importantly, public safety.
How does your role as Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce CEO align with your new position as Mayor?
There are great synergies with my professional role as President & CEO of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce and Mayor of Paradise Valley.
The Chamber is a non-government, member-based, business organization. A key role of the mayor is to build relationships with leadership in adjacent municipalities, as well as at the State Legislature.
At the Chamber, I collaborate with business leaders, municipalities, utilities, and key stakeholders across Arizona.
Where do you see Paradise Valley in 30 years?
I see Paradise Valley continuing as a highly sought-after residential town with world-class resorts and a reputation as a safe, low density and high quality of life community. I see resorts investing to maintain their properties as top-tier destinations and home values increasing. Most of all, I see us keeping the small-town feel and high quality of life for our residents.
You are a true Paradise Valley “boy made good” story. How were things different back then?
The Town of Paradise Valley has always had charm and elegance from my days at Kiva Elementary School and as a Saguaro H.S. Sabercat. When I was young, Lincoln Drive was only two lanes and there were horse properties everywhere as well as the iconic Judson School. Over the years, the Town has grown and roads have become more sophisticated, but PV's charm is forever preserved.
What were you like in high school?
I was very involved in school activities. I was on the Saguaro wrestling team and in the Speech & Debate Club and Key Club. I played bass guitar and was in rock bands. I worked as a busser at the Scottsdale Hilton and an assistant at Kwik Kopy Printing.
What did you do for fun?
Loved going to Legend City, Big Surf, Fashion Square, and tubing down the Salt River. I also enjoyed riding my bike to Camelback Inn and met famous rock stars like Led Zeppelin.
What was your first concert?
Fleetwood Mac at the Phoenix Convention Center! My favorite bands include The Cars, Rolling Stones, Eddie Money, REO Speedwagon, and Van Halen.
Tell us about your family.
I was raised by a single mom and was so grateful to grow up in our beautiful community.
My wife and I met through work; she had a successful career in advertising and I worked in public relations. Barb and I have been married for 18 years and have two awesome children Drake (17) and Olivia (15)... and our dog Roxie (6).
What do you enjoy most about being a dad?
Family means everything—they’re fun, lively, and always keep me on my toes! I love seeing my kids blossom into young adults. My stepdaughter and her husband have two young girls. Barb and I adore being “Gigi” and “Papa” to our granddaughters.
Now that you're Mayor, does your wife still make you roll out the trash bins?
My wife (also my Campaign Manager) keeps the family on task for our household duties. Everyone has a role keeping the household running smoothly; Barb keeps ambitious standards. And yes, I do take out the garbage... unless it’s Drake’s week.
Along with a good parking space, what are other perks you get as Mayor? Do they give you a gavel?
The mayor does not have a designated parking space, but there is a gavel. The Mayor, Town Council and all the Paradise Valley Municipal Judges are volunteer positions. Our Town thrives on volunteerism! The real “perk” is serving PV.
Since you are my friend, can you get me out of photo radar tickets on Lincoln?
Sorry Dave, no can do, but I imagine there are some great photos of you in the photo radar archives!
Can you get me good reservations at El Chorro?
Not that either, but I can fully endorse their world-famous sticky buns!
You're also a podcast host here at our Pratt Studios, Star Worldwide Networks. Tell us more.
I studied Mass Communications at the University of Denver and did some radio and TV production. Now, with my role at The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, I have the privilege of doing a monthly podcast with your amazing team, Dave. It's a great production organization, and I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate.
One last question. I get tired hiking up Camelback... as Mayor, can you get me a chairlift?
Unfortunately, Dave, Town ordinance will not allow a chairlift on Camelback. We can all use the exercise and enjoy the view.
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Thank you, Mr. Mayor!
Dave Pratt, Pratt Marketing Agency/Star Worldwide Networks
Dave Pratt, a Hall of Fame broadcaster and entertainer, boasts a four-decade career across radio, TV, and digital platforms. As the founder of a rapidly growing internet radio and TV network, he continues to influence the media industry while captivating audiences nationwide.
starworldwidenetworks.com