The Arizona Mining and Mineral Museum is slated for a complete transformation. Charlie Connell, chairman of a nonprofit group that is dedicated to preserving the museum, says he’s concerned that the role of mining and minerals will be diminished for the next generation of Arizonans.

The candidates hoping to become Arizona’s next mine inspector agree that mining safety for workers and the public needs to be increased. How to accomplish that goal, just like everything else between the candidates, is a matter of debate.

The lion’s share of the inside information gained from Bas Aja’s 22 sessions lobbying at the Arizona Legislature is contained inside a large file cabinet at the Arizona Cattlemen’s Association office. About five years ago, the longtime cattle industry lobbyist knew the time was coming to share the keys to this treasure trove with a younger, future industry leader.