Arizona Towns Argue Over Which is 'Most Western'

The neighboring towns of Cave Creek and Scottsdale, Arizona, are competing to be known as the "West's Most Western Town," a motto currently held by Scottsdale, according to USA Today.

Cave Creek is trying to take that title away from Scottsdale. The town council unanimously approved a resolution to claim the title from Scottsdale, a title Scottsdale has maintained for over 66 years and has even trademarked.

"People come to Cave Creek for the Western experience," Vincent Francia, the Mayor of Cave Creek said to USA Today. "People go to Scottsdale for the resorts and lifestyle."

When Scottsdale learned of the pending resolution, the town sent an open letter to Cave Creek, signed by Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane.

"The Code of the West says to 'remember that some things aren't for sale,' and that the West's Most Western Town...is not something we are going to throw up for grabs," Lane wrote. "It's not just a slogan, it's part of who we are."

The letter included reasons why Scottsdale has the right to the title. Among them were the Parada del Sol parade and rodeo, the Hashknife Pony Express and over 100 annual horse events held at WestWorld.

"More manure is probably shoveled in Scottsdale than anywhere except the U.S. Congress," Lane wrote.

On Monday, outside the Cave Creek town hall, it had the appearance of walking into a John Ford western. John Wayne could've shown up at any minute. Residents and local business were dressed in full Western clothing, waiting to be able to enter the chamber.

"Our brand isn't for sale," Dennis Robbins, a Scottsdale City Councilman, speaking as a representative of the City Council, said.

Cave Creek was ready with a list of reasons of their own as to why they were more deserving of the title. The winner will likely be the recipient of tourist dollars as out-of-state visitors look for an authentic western experience.

Cave Creek stands by their view that they are the most western.

"Regardless, the challenge is still there," Francia said. "A trademarked motto does not mean that you are living up to what you say you are.

"Scottsdale is all hat and no cattle," he finished.