For more than 25 years, Hal DeKeyser led news organizations in Arizona, Nevada and California as a reporter, photographer, editor, Opinion Page editor, columnist and publisher. He has earned individual awards for reporting, column writing, opinion and advertising innovation, including the Society of Professional Journalists Phoenix Chapter’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He was a Navy photographer and a Vietnam veteran, which is what led him to journalism, chief of staff for a Phoenix City Councilman, and the speechwriter for Arizona’s governor. Hal authored several books ranging from how-to real estate tomes to hosting international visitors in the hospitality industry. And he has created content-heavy websites about writing well, local news, gratitude and personal growth. Community involvement has included stints as chairman of WESTMARC, Scottsdale Education Foundation, Chandler Tomorrow Conference, West Valley Arts Council plus campaign or director volunteer roles with Sun Health, Westside Food Bank, various chambers of commerce and economic development entities.