Grande LlVING Holiday 2022

HOLIDAY 2022

ARIZONA CITY • CASA GRANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA

199433 _ ROX REALTY

$274,900

$349,900

$269,000

This well maintained home in Rancho Palo Verde Estates on a corner lot in a cul-de-sac street. features a large living room, eat-in kitchen with walk-in pantry and enclosed Arizona Room, Low maintenance backyard. New AC unit installed 2022. Additional features; soft water unit, osmosis unit in kitchen, extra cabinets in garage, garage attic steps and exit door.

Annalisa Tapia 520.560.2960

Move-in Ready! This charming 3bd, 2 ba home features new paint inside and out, updated kitchen cabinets with new quartz countertops, new stainless appliances, updated fixtures throughout. Laminate and tile flooring throughout - no carpeting! New garage door and opener. Block fence.

Owner/agent Bea Lueck 520.560.5671

$715,000

$419,900

$360,000

1.2 AC zoned Urban Ranch living in town with horses & animals OK, NO HOA. Main home is 4340 Sq ft and guest qrts 696 sq ft, Detached metal garage/shop 1200 Sq ft.Large family home, perfect for multi-generational living, or could be split into 2 homes, bed and breakfast and Airbnb, or used as a group home (it is licensed for 6 ).

Backyard features a fenced swimming pool.

Connie Rush 520.560.0433 Annalisa Tapia 520.560.2960

The popular Savannah floor plan features downstairs bedroom and bath. Formal dining/living with an open family room and eat-in kitchen with granite counters, breakfast bar and cabinets galore. Recently installed new flooring and interior paint throughout the home. Upstairs is the huge master suite, a small loft and the additional three spacious bedrooms.

Annalisa Tapia 520.560.2960

You’ll love this well maintained home with an open floor plan on a corner lot that backs to the greenbelt. Community pool. Tile flooring throughout the home. Spacious eat-in kitchen, patio door leads to a covered patio and easy to maintain backyard landscaping. Home is licensed for a group home. This will make a great home for your family or for a group home.

Connie Rush 520.560.0433 Annalisa Tapia 520.560.2960

$344,999

$225,000

$259,000

Gorgeous oversized kitchen with gas range and easy flow into the family room and dining room, perfect for entertaining. Downstairs bathroom and spacious den/office/ playroom, or additional bedroom. Upstairs features a loft, 2 more oversized bedrooms, a second guest bathroom and large laundry.The primary bathroom features a separate tub and shower.

Erin Dugan, PLLC 520.709.0998

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath block home features a spacious vaulted ceiling living room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry/ laundry room, ceiling fans in the bedrooms and a covered patio. All surrounded by a block fence for privacy.

Annalisa Tapia 520.560.2960

HUGE fenced double lot with workshop, RV gate and RV parking! House features a new roof, new HVAC, new electrical service panel, new paint inside & out, new flooring, new kitchen cabinets - quartz counters - stainless appliances, new tile surrounds in the bathrooms, new fans and fixtures and more. Seller concessions available.

OWNER/AGENT Bea Lueck 520.560.5671

7996 W REATA LN., ARIZONA CITY 1,485 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath 1 acre Horse Property The focal point of the home is the spacious kitchen; countertops and cabinetry provide well thought use of space and storage. The dining area is part of the common area however thoughtfully separate to give you that formal dining area feel. Out back there is a large covered patio looking out to the large horse corral. Property has a standalone 2 car garage, and a tack-room Yzmira Andujo, PLLC 520.431.1190

65 N POTTEBAUM RD., CASA GRANDE 5,036 SF, 5 bed | 4 bath

1,367 E COLORADO LP., CASA GRANDE 2324 SF, 3 bed | 2.75 bath

1931 N PALO VERDE CT., CASA GRANDE 1,546 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath

1676 E ANGELICA DR., CASA GRANDE 3,300 SF, 5 bed | 3 bath

8551 W CORONADO DR., ARIZONA CITY 1,145 SF., 3 bed | 2 bath

10199 W FERNANDO DR., ARIZONA CITY 1,238 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath

556 W MIRAGE LP., CASA GRANDE 1,766 SF, 4 bed | 2 bath

708 N SUNSHINE BLVD. ELOY 1,458 SF, 4 bed | 2 bath

520.423.8250 • ROXsells.com 1919 N. Trekell Rd., Casa Grande

$265,000

$340,000

$599,000

This quaint 3 bedroom 2 bath home has charm and so much potential. Sip coffee or enjoy sunsets from the enclosed front patio. The detached 2 car garage is so spacious! This property sits on an oversized 0.45 acre lot.

Kelly Herrington, PLLC 520.780.0843

NO HOA & a 3 car garage home! This 3 bd home is situated in a quaint neighborhood where every street has a beautiful flower name! There is so much potential in this home for someone to make it their dream home.

Kelly Herrington, PLLC 520.780.0843

Community offers golf course views with a private lake and clubhouse access! Executive level,spacious move-in ready home overlooking the golf course with the expected amenities such as fireplace, granite counters, upgrades though-out and loads of storage. Half-bath exits to the diving pool. Low maintenance backyard with extended paver patio for entertaining. Owner/agent Bea Lueck 520.560.5671

$349,900

$265,000

$410,000

Beautifully maintained home with a den/office, formal dining area, kitchen with island and a roomy living room, open concept and vaulted ceilings. Screened-in Arizona room with an adjacent spa/hot tub that stays with the home.

Additional storage area off the driveway too. Solar is leased; Buyer needs to qualify. RV parking with full hookups for sewer, water & 50 amp power.

Susan Abdallah 520.705.1388

An amazing opportunity to own a 20 acre horse property.

Most of the main home components have been updated or are new. Newor near newprivate well, roof, water heater and HVAC. Huge wrap-around Arizona room. Property also included a detached garage, round pen, storage containers, etc. Attesa race track is located nearby!

Kelly Herrington, PLLC 520.780.0843

14895 S OAKMONT DR., ARIZONA CITY 1,276 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath

1750 E WILDFLOWER LN. CASA GRANDE 1,940 SF, 4 bed | 2 bath Stunning, updated 4 bedroom home with a 3 car garage!!

Newer porcelain plank tile and carpet with upgraded padding. This home is gorgeous and move-in ready. Enjoy the large backyard with a nice shade tree and covered patio Kelly Herrington, PLLC 520.780.0843

1651 E ZINNIA ST., CASA GRANDE 1,670 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath

876 W DESERT SKY DR., CASA GRANDE 1,624 SF., 2 bed | 1.75 bath

$499,000

$379,000

It is possible to own a huge house in a popular lake subdivision, without breaking the bank! 3car garage. pool.

The entertaining areas are nearly unlimited including dining room, living room, family room and large covered patio with view of the pool and sparkling lake frontage.

Susan Gallegos 520.371.0015 Karen Henson 520.705.1714

Remodeled ranch home with lots of new- paint, LVT plank flooring, carpet and tile, new cabinets, appliances, quartz counters and dramatic carrara marble backsplash. The outdoor paradise includes a newly replastered diving pool with water feature, huge workshop or art studio, large covered patio and outdoor seating area with wood firepit.

NO HOA Leased solar. Owner/Agent.

Bea Lueck 520.560.5671

2138 N LAKESHORE DR., CASA GRANDE 3,055 SF, 4bed | 3 bath

2119 N LAKESHORE DR., CASA GRANDE 2,558 SF, 4 bed | 2.5 bath

7710 S MIDWAY RD., CASA GRANDE 1,456 SF, 3 bed | 2 bath

508 E MANOR DR, CASA GRANDE 2,471 SF, 4bed | 2.5 bath ©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

F E AT U R ES

48

THE HOLIDAY 50 ISSUE

54

THE 14 ROX INTERVIEW 16

Make all your Christmases ‘Green’ with the Right Tree Community Holiday Events The Holidays are Coming!

Dennis Dugan Tribute Dennis Dugan Interview

About the cover:

The City of Eloy Central Park Christmas Decorations December 2021 Photo by Elegance N Images

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HO L I D A Y 2022

GIVE THE THE GIFT GIFT GIVE OF HOPE HOPE THIS THIS OF HOLIDAY HOLIDAY SEASON SEASON

Donate to Seeds of Hope by Dec. 31 and claim your Arizona tax credit Donate to Seeds of Hope by Dec. 31 and claim your Arizona tax credit

seedsofhopeaz.com seedsofhopeaz.com

CONTENTS Biz Believe Media 26 Don’t Misinformation about Foreclosures

30 Know this about Divorce

You 36 Out & About 64 Come On In

Fun Always Feels 78 Ireland Like a Big Hug

82 E-bikes Extend your

Range for Outdoor Fun

Now! 84 Events Calendar 86 Rewind: Eloy Glow 6

G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

COMING JANUARY 2023

The HOME & GARDEN Edition

SPRING 2022

Don’t miss this opportunity to promote your business!

• • • •

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PROMOTIONAL RATES AVAILABLE.

ARIZONA CITY • CASA GRANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA

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www.grande-living.com

For more information on how your business can be featured, contact us at info@roxco.com

ADVERTISER INDEX A Storage Place of CG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Academy Mortgage - CG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 ACP Painting LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 AnnieMac Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Capital R Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Casa Grande Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Casa Grande Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Central Arizona College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 CGI Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Chatty Shack Salon & Med Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Coldwell Banker ROX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 72, 99

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Elaine M. Earle, CPA

SALES & MARKETING Julie Turetzky

Director of Public Relations

Jenna Leatherman

Executive Sales & Marketing Assistant

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Shannon Price Art Director

Keith Dobie,

Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Conrad

Digital Media Representative

EDITORIAL

Coldwell Banker ROX Realty - Property Management . . . 23

Christia Gibbons

Cypress Point Retirement Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Blake Herzog

Desert Sky Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

OPERATIONS

Dreamstyle Remodeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Felix Appliance, Heating & Air - Maricopa . . . . . . . . . . 100 Fitzgibbons Law Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Glover Court Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Grande Innovation Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Horsepower Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Lifted High Garage Door Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Machado’s Hardscapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Senior Editor Staff Writer

Bea Lueck

Vice President of Operations

COMMENTS AND IDEAS: editor@roxco.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

info@roxco.com www.grande-living.com/copies

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES:

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CORPORATE OFFICE:

1919 N. Trekell Rd., Suite C Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-509-1000

Maricopa Water And Ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Mercado Y Carniceria El Pima . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Norris RV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Raymond Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

CEO Elaine M. Earle, CPA VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS Bea Lueck

Rent A Can . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 ROX Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 ROX Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Seeds of Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Sun Life Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Title Security Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Grande LIVING is published by Raxx Direct Marketing. Editorial content is provided by affiliates of Raxx Direct Marketing, community members and local organizations. © 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this publication, including but not limited to editorial content, illustrations, graphics and photographic images, may be republished, reproduced or reprinted without the prior express written consent of the publisher. The publishers of Grande LIVING assume no responsibility for errors or omissions of any advertisement beyond the actual cost of the advertisement. In no event shall the publishers be liable for any consequential damages in excess of the cost of the advertisement. Grande LIVING shall not be liable for inaccuracies, errors, omissions, or damages from the use of information contained herein. Submitted articles do not reflect the opinions of the owners or management of Grande LIVING Information contained within submitted articles had not been verified for accuracy and readers are responsible for forming their own opinions.

Two Brothers Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 8

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HO L I D A Y 2022

From the Publisher

A Grande Holiday As the holidays approach, our gift to you is a refreshed, refocused magazine, Grande LIVING. We at ROX Media have brought you Golden Corridor LIVING for the past nine years. We’re so proud of the work we’ve done as the “Voice of the Community” for this stretch of the desert between Phoenix and Tucson, an agricultural hub that’s bursting with potential as an industrial and hightech powerhouse.

We’re no longer a corridor, we’re a destination!

Nothing about our mission is changing — we’re just refreshing our focus on the grand life everyone is building throughout Pinal County. We’re bringing back more of the home and real estate content we used to feature: “Come On In” home tours, “Dear (Community)” letters starting with Casa Grande, the fun What ROX/What Sux commentaries and real estate statistics to help you follow today’s dynamic market.

We’re also moving the event calendar and Rewind features from our sister publication, Pinal NOW, into Grande LIVING. Now you won’t have to pick up two magazines to learn everything you need to know to live your best, fullest life in our communities and across the county!

In this issue we pay tribute to local dairy farmer Dennis Dugan and his instrumental role in expanding our ag sector and resources for everyone in Pinal County, especially our youth.

Dennis passed away in August of this year, leaving Casa Grande and surrounding communities saddened but grateful for all the contributions he made as an employer, a member of committees ranging from the Planning and Zoning Commission to the Industrial Development Authority and founder of the Pinal 40.

We're reprinting his interview from 2016 in this issue with a few updates from the family as a tribute.

Grande LIVING will deliver the news and lifestyle stories you rely on us for to give you a full picture of what life in our “grande” region can be as we move through the glow of the holidays and into the promise of 2023!

Elaine Earle Elaine Earle

Publisher, Grande Living Magazine

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

GR ANDE LIVI NG 9

VOICES of the COMMUNITY

At Grande LIVING Magazine, our slogan is “The Voice of the Community” because we believe the stories in our local region are best told by the people, companies, nonprofits and governments that comprise our community. Here are the “voices” who helped make this issue possible!

Angela Askey

Executive Director, Public Relations and Marketing, Central Arizona College

Gigi McWhirter Resident Animal Whisperer

Tiffanie Grady-Gillespie Certified Physical Trainer, Certified Corporate Wellness Coach, WickedFiTT

Micah Powell

Mayor, City of Eloy

Donna McBride

Councilwoman, City of Casa Grande

Bob Shogren

Director, Casa Grande Alliance

Craig McFarland

Mayor, City of Casa Grande

Tori Ward

Travel Agent, ROX Travel

See more Voices and full bios at www.grande-living.com/voices

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HO L I D A Y 2022

HOW CAN WE HELP? Our dealership offers used RVs for sale, RV parts and accessories, RV repair and service, Propane and RV storage.

Family owned and operated business Since 1993

973 W. Gila Bend Hwy Casa Grande

520-836-7921 | www.norrisrv.com

Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday: Closed

The Pinal County Press

A R I ZO N A C I T Y | C A S A G R A N D E | C O O L I D G E | E LOY | F LO R E N C E | M A R I C O PA

More Industry Coming to CG

Image courtesy of Confluence Industrial

C

asa Grande has been turning heads in the real estate and industrial markets for a few years now, and the impressive projects keep coming with three given the go-ahead by the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission at its October meeting: • LCY Electronics Materials — LCY is Taiwan’s largest producer of electronic-grade isopropyl alcohol (EIPA) and a major supplier to Taiwan Semiconductor, which is building a new factory in north Phoenix.

It’s planning to build a chemical manufacturing plant on 34 acres at the southeast corner of Burris Street and Ash Avenue, within the Central Arizona Commerce Park. Truck and rail service will be offered from the site, and facilities there will include distillation units, an electrical substation and administrative and operation buildings. Some of the substation’s towers could be up to 100 feet tall.

The high-purity form of isopropyl alcohol is used throughout the semiconductor manufacturing process to remove glue, stains, dust and corrosive materials. The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit and master site plan for the project. Several more companies expected to provide materials to Taiwan Semiconductor have purchased or considered sites in and around Casa Grande.

• Southwark Metal Manufacturing — The Philadelphiabased sheet metal manufacturer wants to build a 140,000-square-foot factory/warehouse on Ash Avenue

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west of Florence Street, just east of the Walmart distribution center. It will primarily produce venting for air conditioning units, but the company makes many other products at locations in Phoenix and throughout the country.

Southwark purchased the 97-acre property in June and has begun posting open job positions on its website. The commission approved the project’s site plan.

• Opus Development Company — The commercial developer is planning two industrial/warehousing buildings totaling 326,500 square feet at the northwest corner of Sunland Gin and Hanna roads. Tentatively named Confluence Industrial, the project is being built on spec on a parcel bordered by the Union Pacific Railroad and Jimmie Kerr Boulevard on its north side.

The Minnesota-based company has a presence around the country and recently built a spec building at the Goodyear Airport covering more than 400,000 square feet. The commission approved the company’s site plan.

The commission also recommended that the City Council approve an exemption to the Casa Grande Promenade development plan to allow Marriott to build a proposed Towne Place/Fairfield Inn hotel up to 65 feet high, 20 feet higher than the limit for the rest of the structures in the shopping center. It would be located at the far southeastern corner of the property, across Florence Boulevard from Mission Royale, where some residents have voiced objections to the change.

HO L I D A Y 2022

THE LATEST LOCAL NEWS HOLIDAY 2022

Stories by Blake Herzog

Project Area

S Henness Road

Freeway I-10

N Peart Road

N Colorado St

N Pueblo Dr

Midtown Florence Boulevard

Ave A

re

nc

eB

lvd

Peart

Rd

Downtown Aerial Florence Boulevard Looking East

Casa Grande, Arizona

Midtown Aerial Florence Boulevard Looking West

Florence Boulevard Streetscape

Florence Blvd

N Pueblo Dr

N Roosevelt Ave

N Brown Avenue

N Morrison Ave

N Coolidge Ave

2nd Street

Flo

d

e Blv

enc

Flor

N Arbor Ave

N Cameron St

Flo Ma ren rsh ce S t al N lS Dr t yla ke St N

N

N

Sa

ca

to

nS

t

Downtown

FREEWAY: • Enhanced Sidewalk Improvements • Intersection Improvements • Median Improvements • Bicycle / Pedestrian Improvements • Vehicular Focus

N Arizola Road

MIDTOWN: • Enhanced Sidewalk Improvements • Intersection Improvements • Median Improvements • Bicycle / Pedestrian Improvements

N Trekell Road

N Gilbert Ave

N Lemberg Ave

N Kadota Ave

N Brown Ave

N Casa Grande Ave

N Olive Ave

N Walnut Ave

N Center Ave

N Park Ave

Pinal Avenue

N Arbor Ave

DOWNTOWN: • On Street Parking • Enhanced Sidewalk Improvements • Intersection Improvements • Art and Signage Enhancements • Bicycle and Pedestrian Friendly

Henness Rd

Freeway Aerial Florence Boulevard Looking West

Not to Scale

Map courtesy of City of Casa Grande

Florence Boulevard Makeover in the Works August, 2022

C

ity officials are mapping out some big ideas for Casa Grande’s primary traffic and retail thoroughfare in a Florence Boulevard Streetscape Design project.

Upgraded and more aesthetically attractive sidewalks and medians, walkable/bikeable paths, new light fixtures and signage, public art and improved traffic and safety designs are just some of the features that could be incorporated in Florence’s makeover in a plan that’s being sketched out and updated on www. casagrandeaz.gov/florence-blvd.

Here residents can participate via surveys and public meetings as information about them is posted.

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City Planner Joe Horn, the project manager for the streetscape redesign, said the project began with City planning staff discussing ways to improve public perceptions surrounding the crucial 4-mile stretch between Interstate 10 and Pinal Avenue, which links medical and retail centers in the east to the historic downtown and industrial corridor along Gila Bend Highway on the west.

“We’re always trying to raise the bar a little bit for the City and try to improve it as much as possible, and this project came about as part of what can we do that will really impact the city that’s kind of frontand-center,” he said.

Ideas were presented to the Planning

and Zoning commission and City Council, which approved some of the basic concepts and hired a consulting firm, J2 Design, to help assemble the plan.

The street has been the backbone of the city throughout its development and the wear and tear is showing in some ways, creating a few image issues planners are hoping to take on.

“We’ve got some traffic issues, bad traffic, a lot of driveways, a lot of parking lots,” Horn said. “It looks a little bit old, and we’re looking to refresh that entire corridor and put some landscape forward and pedestrian access forward, and see if we can enhance the area.”

More stories on page 34

GR ANDE LIVI NG 13

Dennis Dugan Tribute

by Erin Dugan

D

ennis Dugan loved a good story and to have a little fun along the way.

A true humanitarian at heart, he found creative ways to raise funds for his special projects.

After he obtained donations for the Tracy Dugan Library at St. Anthony of Padua School, Dennis moved on to establish a golf tournament to benefit St. Anthony of Padua School. He then worked his fundraising magic on the City of Casa Grande Union High School FFA Steak Fry. His most recent endeavor and passion had been the creation of Pinal 40, a fraternal organization dedicated to providing support and funding for Pinal County youth and education.

Denis was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and moved to Chandler with his parents and six brothers — his parents began a dairy operation there. He graduated from the University of Arizona in 1972 and was a proud Wildcat.

In 1984, Dennis moved to Casa Grande where he started Triple D Dairy.

In 1985 he married Kelly Hackler. They had two children, Tracy and David.

Dennis with

grandson Ty Scott Dug an

Dennis was involved in many community services including United Dairyman of Arizona Board of Directors, Project CENTRL Class 5, Arizona Beef Council, Casa Grande St. Anthony School Board, City of Casa Grande Industrial Development Authority Board, City of Casa Grande Planning and Zoning Board, Casa Grande Boys and Girls Club Executive Board.

His big, full-bodied laugh was a thing of beauty. He will be tremendously missed.

son ith grand Dennis w an g u D hael Jack Mic

Dennis Dug an and his wife Kelly 14

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HO L I D A Y 2022

Dennis Dugan and his wife Kelly and their grandsons

Photo by Egan Eyes Photography

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 15

Dennis Dugan and his wife Kelly

Photo by Egan Eyes Photography

The

Interview

DENNIS DUGAN:

Raising Cows–The Journey from Wisconsin to Arizona Interview by Brett Eisele – Winter 2016 In Memoriam In honor of Dennis Dugan's achievements and contributions to our community, we would like to share his interview from 2016 in remembrance.

GRANDE LIVING: How many generations of dairymen are in your family?

Dennis Dugan: My grandfather started the dairy operation in probably the 1880’s, 1890’s and then my dad took over in the 1940’s.

GRANDE LIVING: And were those the days where you would get up in the morning, do the milking and put the cans out by the road?

Dennis Dugan: Yes. In the early days when they were milking, the milk would be put in the cans, they would put the milk cans out on the road and that milk would be picked up and delivered to a cheese plant.

GRANDE LIVING: When did you enter the picture? At the farm back in Wisconsin?

Dennis Dugan: Yes. When we grew up in Wisconsin, our dad had us on a tractor when we were 6 years old. He would put us out in the field, by ourselves, with a small 65 horsepower tractor, on a disk with a hand clutch, because we weren’t big enough to touch the brakes, W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

so we’d pull by hand clutch. All he would say was stay away from the fences and he’d leave us for two, three hours.

GRANDE LIVING: How many of your brothers are still in the business?

Dennis Dugan: All my brothers are still in the business except the one brother Richard Dugan. Richard was on a ski trip years ago when he hit some black ice on the road and wrecked. He hit his head and was in a coma for 10 days; he came out of it, but only recovered about 95% of his memory. He stayed involved and kept dairying for 10 years after that but then he sold out.

GRANDE LIVING: How many dairies are now at the Overfield Road facility in Casa Grande?

Dennis Dugan: There are three dairies there and another one just a half a mile down the road, so there are four actual facilities.

GRANDE LIVING: There’s also a Dugan dairy on the West side of the County as well?

Dennis Dugan: Yes, that’s my brother Tom; he’s the largest of us all. So there are five of us here and then I have a brother Mike who is dairying in Idaho.

GRANDE LIVING: Did you go to college?

Dennis Dugan: Yes, I went to UofA and graduated there 1972. Then, I went to Milwaukee, Oregon which is suburb of Portland. There was an ag teacher at the U of A that was from that area who told me about it and I wanted to get away and try something different. So I decided to go to Oregon. I went up there; I did that for a year and almost starved to death. I signed a $7,200.00 contract for twelve months in 1973.

GRANDE LIVING: What were you teaching? What grade?

Dennis Dugan: Freshmen through seniors in high school and I taught vocational agriculture.

GRANDE LIVING: After the year did you realize the error of your ways and came home?

GR ANDE LIVI NG 17

The

Interview

Dennis Dugan: Yes. I quit and came home.

GRANDE LIVING: Are all of the twenty thousand cows we spoke of earlier here in Pinal County?

Dennis Dugan: Yes. Also, I think this is noteworthy — in 1980, Pinal County was ranked 232nd in the United States for number of milk cows in the county and today Pinal County is now ranked 18th in the United States. We have 90,000 milk cows within 30 miles of Casa Grande. We came that far in the dairy industry because of all the dairies built in Pinal County. Pinal County is in the top 20 dairy counties in the United States. Most people don’t realize that. The only reason the big dairy processing plants built by Ehrmann Yogurt plant, Franklin Cream Cheese, and Daisy happened was because there are ninety thousand milk cows within thirty miles of Casa Grande.

GRANDE LIVING: When you first got started in Casa Grande was it rough at first?

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

Dennis Dugan: Yes, but It was interesting… the people down here weren’t used to dairies. A dairy operation runs 24 hours a day and you have to have service 24 hours a day. The barns run 24 hours a day… So when I went to local businesses at that time when we were building the place, we got bids from the local people that handle the mechanical, coolers, whatever… and everything was higher here. All the bids came in higher, so most of all my construction guys had to come out of the Valley because of the lower bids. When I had to drill a well I told the well driller here, “if that well goes down on Christmas Eve you’re going to have to come out and pull that well… we can’t wait till the next morning for you to pull it out because we can’t be without water.” He said no, we don’t do that. So I had to go back up to the Valley and have a driller come down here because they offered 24 hour seven day a week service.

It took a while, but eventually as the dairies came in, the business caught on. But I took a little heat when I first came down here

because I wasn’t spending money locally, but today I’m doing a lot of business with local folks. I think I’ve changed and so have they.

GRANDE LIVING: Well it is a noble business.

Dennis Dugan: It's hard work but we pay competitive wages and we reward those who do well. Our managers are making pretty good money. Four or five of our operators are making six figure salaries.

GRANDE LIVING: Do the dairies have their own veterinarians?

Dennis Dugan: Yes we have a vet.

GRANDE LIVING: With 20,000 head of cattle you must need a vet on call.

Dennis Dugan: Yes my brother Tom is the largest, he has 10,000 head and he has in-house vets.

You still have outside vets that come in and the reason for that is because the outside vets go around to all the dairies and get to see what’s going on. If a disease comes in, they know how to handle

HO L I D A Y 2022

The

Interview

The Dugan family

it. The in-house vets are often from overseas, many from Africa and they work strictly in-house and therefore don’t know what’s going on at the other dairies and so forth.

GRANDE LIVING: Now you’ve become pretty successful. You’ve been at it since the ‘80s and you’re doing it pretty well. Now we are seeing your philanthropic side. Every town has nonprofit organizations and your name is affiliated with many of them, so you’re starting to get involved in the community.

Dennis Dugan: Basically our family’s Irish and when I was young, we would always take the day off and hold a big St. Patrick’s Day Party on St. Patrick’s Day. So when I got down here and I married my wife Kelly, we settled down and didn’t do that for years because there was a business to run and a family to raise. After a while my brother Tom and I started the celebration again probably W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

about 17 years ago. Initially, we had our friends and family for lunch and we would celebrate the day.

Well after 4 years, things started getting bigger and bigger, I turned it into a dairy event. We had all the dairymen get together to socialize.

Later we got “sponsors”, the people who we did business with, and who sold supplies to each of our dairies.

That was a lot of business and as a result, they would sponsor the party for awhile. It was just the dairymen and we had 180, 200 people and we raised enough money from our sponsors to cover the cost of the party. It was another way for the dairymen to socialize, it was a social event.

Well after a while, we had money left over from the party and we built up a reserve fund. I built up too much of a reserve fund and so, oh, four years ago, five years ago, over a two-year period, we gave $15,000 to the Boys and Girls Club because we didn’t need

the excess money. Then I asked myself, what should be the next step? It’s a good cause, you’ve got all these people coming and our sponsors were growing, so we formed the Dugan’s St. Patrick’s Foundation. I hoped that every year we could raise $25,000 – $30,000 for the Boys and Girls Club.

That was two years ago. The first year we netted $81,000 and it just blew me away. We gave $20,000 to the Boys and Girls Club, $20,000 for ag scholarships and then to kids in need in our community.

We kept enough money to help with the next year’s party. But again I asked myself, “What should be our next step?” I knew up in the valley, you have like five or six organizations like the Compadres, Thunderbirds and the Scottsdale Charros.

Continued on page 76 GR ANDE LIVI NG 19

CASA GRANDE:

A YEAR OF RECORD ECONOMIC GROWTH

by Craig H. McFarland, Mayor, City of Casa Grande

20

I

n 2022, Casa Grande experienced record jobs expansion. We attracted historic wins in such advanced industries as semiconductors, electric vehicle, and other major manufacturing.

• 52,716 rounds of golf played at Dave White GC

All this would not have been possible without the partnerships from Arizona Commerce Authority, Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), Central Arizona College, Pinal County, Casa Grande Union High School District, Casa Grande Elementary School District, Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce and, most importantly, the City of Casa Grande Council and Staff!

• 100,578 parks and recreation attendance

Advancing education and workforce development: With the cooperation from the Arizona Commerce Authority, Pinal County, City of Casa Grande and Central Arizona College, we continue to see new trained employees coming out of Drive 48 (Central Arizona College’s Technology Training Center).

This facility continues to prepare Arizonans for jobs in our growing high-tech industries. The state-of-theart facility features cutting-edge robots and multiple hands-on training rooms. This training facility is currently outfitted to prepare workers for jobs in our electric vehicle manufacturing industry.

As reported in our annual financial report for fiscal year 2021 (ending June 30, 2022):

• $468,378,142 total construction valuation

• 24,710 senior meals provided by Dorothy Powell Center

• 1.83 billion gallons of wastewater treated • 1.89 million city fleet miles • 57,440 visits to both City Library branches • 5:36 average minutes police response time • 21,860 fire department responses • 44,497 calls for service to the police department • 502,636 feet of paving on Casa Grande City Streets

Lucid is now Casa Grande’s No. 1 employer with over 3,000 employees. Phase II expansion is almost complete and will create an additional 2.85 million square feet adding to the current .99 million square feet. As a bit of trivia — the amount of steel in phase II is estimated at 18,000 tons.

This year the City of Casa Grande featured some of our local industry at our annual League of Arizona Cities and Towns Show of Cities event.

• 2,149 victims served by the City Attorney’s office

The League of Arizona Cities and Towns Show of Cities event

Welcome to the

MOST FESTIVE SEASON

of the Year!

by Micah Powell, Mayor, City of Eloy

F

all and winter are when the desert comes alive, and Eloy is no exception! Over the last few years, Eloy has evolved into a community welcoming new residents and new businesses as well as offering great programs for Eloy’s existing and multigenerational residents.

In this issue’s REWIND, read about our First Annual Eloy Balloon Glow & Festival event that took place Nov. 12!

Still to come is Christmas in Eloy, an annual tradition held this year on Saturday, Dec. 10, starting at 4 p.m. with music, games, carnival rides, food vendors and crafts. Santa Claus will be there to meet with all the good (and bad!) boys and girls.

up and running in late 2023 and start the hiring process next year.

• Owens Corning has completed its refit and is producing and distributing pink insulation throughout the western United States.

• Vext Science, adjacent to Owens

Corning in the Eloy Industrial Park, is one of rural Arizona’s largest indoor medical marijuana growing facilities, providing a new generation of agricultural employment.

The most recent company to announce a new facility in Eloy is Cirba Solutions, a key player in the

electric vehicle supply chain and serve virtually every technology that uses lithium batteries. Cirba will be upgrading an existing Eloy industrial building and intends on hiring up to 110 employees.

Lastly, Eloy is proud to serve as a host community to one of Tesla’s largest and newest quick charge stations with 28 chargers to be located at the Circle K on Toltec Road. They acknowledged that Eloy’s location, at the juncture of Interstates 8 and 10, will be one of the most visited quickcharge stations in the Southwest.

Eloy wishes you and yours a very happy holiday season and prosperous New Year!

Remember to bring your camera for the Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:45 p.m. followed by the 22nd annual Electric Light Parade.

For more information please check out the Fall-Spring Eloy Activity guide around town or by visiting www. eloyaz.gov/186/Community-Services Eloy is also proud of recent successes in bringing jobs to the community to enhance residents quality of life.

• National Gypsum, also known as Gold Bond Building Products, is building Eloy’s biggest structure, a 700,000-square-foot facility to manufacture residential and commercial grade wallboard using gypsum mined right here in Arizona. This building will be

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

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COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS CASA GRANDE Fly-In Breakfast Saturday, Nov. 26 & Saturday, Dec. 31 7 a.m.

Casa Grande Municipal Airport Pictures with Santa Saturday, Dec. 3 2-5 p.m.

Casa Grande Main Library, 449 N. Drylake St. Electric Light Parade Saturday, Dec. 3 5:45 p.m.

Colorado Street & Florence Boulevard Tree Lighting Ceremony Saturday, Dec. 3 6 p.m.

Casa Grande City Hall

Coolidge Veterans Day Parade

Concert in the Park Friday, Dec. 9 5-8 p.m.

Special promotions and activities with live entertainment starting at 6 p.m.

Neon Sign Park, 408 N. Sacaton St. Holiday Singalong Thursday, Dec. 15 4-6 p.m.

A fun family event filled with snacks, songs and holiday cheer.

Vista Grande Public Library, 1556 N. Arizola Rd. Christmas Evening at the Library with Santa Friday, Dec. 16 5:30 p.m.

Featuring fun holiday books read by Santa himself! Stop by for holiday treats and photos with Santa.

Casa Grande Main Library, 449 N. Drylake St.

Noon Year’s Eve Saturday, Dec. 31 11 a.m.

A fun holiday for kids celebrating New Year’s at noon. Snacks, party games and countdown to noon with the library ball drop.

Vista Grande Public Library, 1556 N. Arizola Rd.

COOLIDGE Coolidge Veterans Day Parade Saturday, Nov. 12 10 a.m.

San Carlos Park, 300 W. Central Ave. Movie in the Park Friday, Nov. 18 7 p.m.

Kenilworth Sports Complex, 671 E. Coolidge Ave. Coolidge Christmas Friday, Dec. 9 4-7 p.m.

San Carlos Park, 300 W. Central Ave. (In the Park and Light Parade)

Casa Grande Tree Lighting Ceremony 24

G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

ELOY Inaugural Eloy Balloon Glow & Festival Was Saturday, Nov. 12 If you were there, thank you, if you missed it, now is the time to put a reminder in your calendar for next November!

Christmas in Eloy Saturday, Dec. 10 4-9 p.m.

Music, games, carnival rides, food vendors, crafts and an appearance

by Santa Claus.6:45 p.m. tree lighting ceremony followed by 22nd annual Electric Light Parade.

601 N. Main St.

90th Jr Parada Music Event Saturday, Nov. 26 5-9 p.m. $10 entry fee Grab your boots for a night of the top country tribute acts; bring a lawn chair for comfort.

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena Florence Visitor Center Gift Shop First Thursday of the month 9:30-11 a.m.

Meet several local artists.

24 W. Ruggles St. (McFarland State Historic Park) Florence Farmers Market, Second and fourth Saturdays 8 a.m.-noon 24 W. Ruggles St, (McFarland State Historic Park)

MARICOPA Merry Copa Saturday, Dec. 3 Noon -5 p.m.

Vendors, artisans, crafters and nonprofits from across the city bring all the flavors of the season to bear in this signature event Copper Sky Regional Park

Photo by Elegance N Images

FLORENCE

2nd Annual Copa Cultural Night Market March 2023 The free event celebrates the diversity of our community while promoting the arts through dance, music and visual craft.

Copper Sky Regional Park

SUPERIOR Luminaria Hike on the LOST Saturday, Dec. 3 5-8 p.m.

Miracle on Main Street & Light Parade Friday, Dec. 9 Presented by the Superior Optimist Club www.superiorarizonachamber.org/ event/miracle-on-main-street-lightparade Superior Home Tour & Antique Show Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 28-29, 2023 www.superiorarizonachamber.org/ event/superior-home-bldg-tourand-antique-show Apache Leap Mining Festival & Carnival Friday and Saturday, March 10-12, 2023 Three-day event to include mining competition, a parade, live entertainment, carnivals and vendors. www.apacheleapminingfestival.com

Apache Leap Mining Festival & Carnival

90th Florence Jr Parada Friday, Nov. 25-Sunday, Nov. 27 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Junior Parada is the oldest junior rodeo in the country Vendors, motocross student team, concert and camping available.

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena

Copa Cultural Night W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

GR ANDE LIVI NG 25

Biz

ECONOMY, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Don’t Believe Media Misinformation about Foreclosures

R

MBS Highway content shared by Rudy Benitez, Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS # 279367, AnnieMac Home Mortgage

ecent media headlines spread fear about a pending collapse in the housing market, with the news that foreclosures in the first half of 2022 are up 150% from last year.

While it’s true foreclosures have risen compared to last year, a look back at the data in recent years confirms the situation is far from dire.

The chart from ATTOM Data compares foreclosure activity in the first six months of the year going back to 2008.

As you can see, there were 164,581 foreclosures from January to June of this year versus 65,082 foreclosures seen in the first half of 2021. The record low level of foreclosures seen last year was due in large part to the foreclosure moratoriums because of the pandemic.

Since these moratoriums ended, an increase in foreclosures this year from last year’s record low was to be expected.

Does the 150% increase that we’ve seen this year signal a collapse in the housing market?

Looking closely at the data, you can see that it puts us right on par with the 165,530 foreclosures seen in 2020. And remember, foreclosure moratoriums were also in place in 2020.

In 2019, which was a more normal year, the number of foreclosures seen during the first half of this year was around 44% less than the 296,458 reported in 2019.

And if we compare the number of foreclosures this year to when the

housing market was really in trouble during the Great Recession, it’s a fraction of the number seen in 2008, 2009 and 2010, when foreclosures topped one million each year.

Today, homeowners have record levels of equity in their homes, and lending conditions are much stricter now than in the late 2000s. These factors will keep the number of foreclosures in check.

While it’s true higher mortgage rates and higher home prices have slowed demand for homes, record low inventory should remain supportive of home prices, which will also curb foreclosures.

Data released in September from the National Association of Realtors showed there was just a 3.3 months’ supply of existing homes available for sale at the end of July, well below the six months considered a balanced level.

As the data shows, the number of foreclosures this year is significantly less than any time from 2008 to 2019.

Source: MBS Highway on Sept. 1, 2022 AnnieMac Home Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender. AnnieMac Home Mortgage, 211 N. Florence Street, Suite 102 and 103, Casa Grande AZ 85122 NMLS# 338923. Arizona Mortgage Banker License #0926586.

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

Biz Economy, Finance & Business

Know this about Divorce

by Patricia Glover, Advanced Certified Paralegal, Notary Signing Agent, Certified Legal Document Preparer, Glover Court Solutions

A

lthough divorce is rarely (if ever) planned, the reality is more than half of marriages end in separation. When a couple divorces or legally separates, the parties will divide their debts and assets in accordance with the terms of a final decree (or order).

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

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SPRING 2023

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 33

The Pinal County Press

Crews began to pave Sunland Gin Road in Arizona City Oct. 6.

Photo courtesy of Pinal County.

C

onstruction on Sunland Gin Road in Arizona City is wrapping up after delays caused by supply shortages and a change of contractor in mid-stream.

Paving between Battaglia Road and Monaco Boulevard has continued throughout the fall as Pinal County Public Works turns the 2.5-mile, twolane segment through the heart of the community into a 3-lane road with a sidewalk on the west side, a drainage channel and storm drain and driveway improvements.

Reduced to dirt for more than six months because of the delays, paving on all lanes is projected to be completed by Thanksgiving.

There will be additional tasks to

Sunland Gin Work to be Complete by February

finish improvements that are expected to be completed in January, with the county signing off on the project in February.

Construction originally began in March and ended in early July.

County officials said quality issues with drainage culverts and other items led them to part ways with that contractor, with the dusty road creating headaches for residents throughout the summer.

“This has been an incredible inconvenience for Arizona City,” Supervisor Jeffrey McClure said.

“I appreciate the patience of the community and the professionalism and dedication from Public Works in making sure Sunland Gin Road

is completed to the highest quality standards.”

After ending the original contract, the county went through an emergency procurement process to hire Sunland Asphalt, which has worked on multiple roads throughout the county. The cost of the project has risen from $6.4 million to $7.5 million due to inflation, the contractor change and the shortening of the construction period, county spokesman Ray Telles said.

Paving work began Oct. 6 on the southbound lane and later in the month on the northbound lanes. Road closures and detours have been put in place during the process.

CG Hosting Health Clinic Dec. 1-2 T

he City of Casa Grande is joining forces with Arizona Sonshine to host a free health clinic Dec. 1 and Dec. 2 offering medical, dental, vision and other health-related services for the medically underserved.

The event will be held at the Roller Derby Hangar (former Boys and Girls Club) at 798 N. Picacho St., with registration from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and patients seen through about 5 p.m.

It is being presented with help from community volunteers from the health care sectors and promotion from local

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

schools, service clubs and businesses.

Other services that may be available include healthy living counseling, including for diabetes, and physical therapy.

Care will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and some services are expected to fill up quickly. Children accompanied by an adult are eligible for care, as well as all adults.

College students and people who are indigent or homeless who need limited care are especially encouraged to attend.

Arizona Sonshine is a coalition

of health care providers and other volunteers, based in Chino Valley, which hosts annual clinics for the underserved throughout Arizona. It is a ministry of the Arizona Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists.

The City continues to encourage residents to sign up to help make the clinic a success. “Offering a helping hand to those in need is a big part of what makes Casa Grande so special,” said Mayor Craig McFarland. “The Council and I encourage the community to get involved.”

HO L I D A Y 2022

Local News by Blake Herzog – Continued

EV Battery Recycler Bringing 110 Jobs to Eloy C

irba Solutions, through its affiliate Heritage Battery Recycling, has announced plans to open a lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Eloy, a project expected to create 75 construction jobs and 110 permanent jobs and supply critical materials for electric vehicle batteries.

The company has six existing locations, including one in Mesa, and plans to expand an existing building near Battaglia Road and Frontier Street to create a 75,000-square-foot facility that will process lithium-ion end-of-life batteries and battery manufacturing scrap, the Arizona Commerce Authority said in late September.

Additional services will include disassembly, sorting, warehousing and diagnostic testing. The Eloy facility will provide battery-grade salts for new cathode and battery manufacturing, such as nickel, cobalt, manganese and lithium.

“Eloy is pleased to welcome Cirba Solutions to our community,” Eloy Mayor Micah Powell said. “The investment and new jobs fit nicely into Eloy’s ongoing plan to attract quality employers to our community. As has been said, a rising tide raises all boats, and in economic development that means supplier and support industries such as Cirba Solutions.”

The plant is expected to open mid-2023 and process enough materials to support up to 50,000 electric vehicles. With the number of EVs on U.S. roads expected to accelerate from about 2 million today to 26 million in 2030, as projected by the Edison Electric Institute, securing the materials needed for batteries and other internal components is critical for meeting demand.

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

David Klanecky, President and CEO of Cirba Solutions, said, “Federal incentives for the purchase of EVs, requirements for domestic EV battery manufacturing included in the Inflation Reduction Act, and state requirements like California’s recent move to require all new vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, ensure that lithium-ion battery recycling will be critical for auto manufacturers to meet demand and have a sustainable future.”

He added that the market for lithium-ion batteries is projected to reach $25 billion by 2028. The rechargeable batteries also are used in phones, laptops and other consumer electronics.

The pressure on global and domestic lithium mining capacity will continue to grow with demand from EV and other electronics, making EV battery recycling increasingly important to meet the growing market in an environmentally responsible manner.

By 2050, recycled minerals will account for nearly 50% of cobalt, 25% of lithium and 40% of nickel produced in U.S. EV batteries, according to Resources, Conservation and Recycling.

Pinal County is an EV production hub as the site of the Lucid Motors and Nikola Corporation factories, and this recycling facility will raise the state’s profile as a manufacturing center for electric vehicles and their components, said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority.

GR ANDE LIVI NG 35

You

Health, Happiness, & Education

Out & About

Exciting events and striking scenery in the Golden Corridor area!

Submit your photos to our Facebook page or email to: photos@roxco.com

Photo by Kevin M. Wead

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Photo by Kevin M. Wead

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Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

HO L I D A Y 2022

Coldwell BANKER ROX REALTY ROXtober Photos by Kelly Herrington unless otherwise noted.

Photo by Bea Lueck

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

GR ANDE LIVI NG 37

You

Health, Happiness, & Education

Overall Health

Boosts Immune System C

ontinued concerns about infectious diseases and other maladies have fueled a cottage industry devoted to helping us “boost” our immune systems with herbs, supplements, specific foods and other interventions.

But it isn’t that simple.

Our level of immunity is based on an extremely complex collaboration between many different types of cells, and scientists haven’t been able to establish any proven links between a specific diet or lifestyle change and an improved immune response in studies on humans, according to Harvard Health Publishing and other sources.

Still, we don’t actually want our immune response to be too strong, as overreactions to harmless substances lead to allergies, autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammation.

While coming up with a precise cocktail of the correct food and vitamins, exercises and other actions for immune health has proven elusive,

by Blake Herzog most experts agree that sticking with an overall healthy lifestyle is the best strategy.

• Diet — Consuming a wide variety

of foods while focusing on fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, healthy fats and lean sources of protein has long been tied to improved heart, brain and gut health and is believed to affect immunity, as well.

In some cases, particularly as we age, it can be beneficial to add some micronutrients known to affect our immune response through supplements, including vitamins B6, C and E. Talk with your doctor about whether you should take supplements, which ones and how much.

• Exercise — Regular physical activity benefits nearly every dimension of your health and may aid your immune system in particular by improving your circulation, which makes it easier for T cells and others involved to travel

throughout the body and find invasive substances before they cause an infection.

The most common recommendation is to get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise, including strength training, five days a week.

• Stress — Studies have suggested

being under emotional stress can leave us more vulnerable to infection and illness. You can control how it affects your body to a large degree through such acts as relaxation, meditation, physical activity, cultivating supportive relationships and keeping your mind focused on the present rather than dwelling on the past or future.

• Sleep — Seven to eight hours of

sleep each night is the healthy, refreshing sweet spot for most of us.

• Vaccines — These have been

scientifically proven to significantly boost our immune response to specific infections.

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You

Health, Happiness, & Education

Make your Holidays Healthy

by Tiffanie Grady-Gillespie, Certified Physical Trainer, Certified Corporate Wellness Coach, WickedFiTT

I

t’s the holiday season and eating healthy for the holidays often goes out the window. And if you’re not careful, by the end of December you’ll find yourself standing on the scale 5 to 10 pounds heavier than you were in September.

To help you keep off the added weight that usually comes around this time of year, I have a few tips to keep you healthy and sort of on track this holiday season.

Portion control is such a huge factor in maintaining a healthy weight.

If you really want to maintain personal health during the holidays, it’s so important to monitor and control your portions.

You don’t need to obsess with each calorie on your plate, but you do need to be mindful about maintaining a sense of control.

Stay positive! Instead of focusing on negative self-talk — like trying to avoid certain foods — find positive ways to approach your meals that will make you feel healthy in the process. Do a trade-off. For every alcoholic drink you have during the holidays, tell yourself you need to be physically active for 30 minutes to burn it off.

Drink that water. Drinking water during your meal versus other beverages helps decrease your calorie intake.

Watch that sugar consumption. Holiday treats may be deliciously tempting, but too much sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes and even premature aging.

After a meal take a walk, you need to exercise at least 30 minutes a day four to five days a week. You don’t have to go crazy here. Try your best to stay active.

And most of all, you’ll want to help hold yourself accountable.

Decide ahead of time for the best way to eat healthy for the holidays this year.

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S C O T T P. G U N N E L L , D D S

520.423.0022

1968 North Peart Road Suite 11 Casa Grande

www.desertskydentalaz.com

You

Health, Happiness, & Education

10 Steps to

Winterize your Skin

1.

Keep blocking the sun — Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher year-round, either by itself or by choosing a moisturizer providing this protection.

5.

Take shorter, lukewarm showers — We know how good a hot shower feels in the winter, but they can dry and irritate your skin when you need it least.

8.

Skip the tanning bed — If you want to recreate your summer glow, try using self-tanners with extra moisturizer. Tanning beds can dry your skin out.

2.

Moisturize daily — Apply a heavier cream- or ointmentbased moisturizer frequently, especially after bathing or washing your hands while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

6.

Cleanse carefully — Soaps and cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, so use mild or nonsoap products and avoid overuse on parts of the body you don’t need to wash daily, including your trunk, arms and legs.

9.

Protect mature skin — Skin loses much of its natural moisture as we age, so older adults should be extra vigilant during the winter.

3.

Against the wind — Protect yourself from its drying effects by wearing hats or hoods and lip balm.

4.

Bring out the humidifier — Put a humidifier in your bedroom (and other rooms if you can) for additional moisture and follow the maintenance instructions.

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7.

Avoid extreme cold — Frostbite can happen any time the temperature hits 32 degrees or below. The risk is higher as it heads toward 20 and below, especially for some people with diabetes or who have experienced frostbite in the past.

10. Keep your distance from

smoke and fire — Roaring fireplaces, bonfires and fire pits are delightful to sit by but seriously dry your skin; same with smoking and secondhand smoke.

HO L I D A Y 2022

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You

Healthy Recipes

Healthy

Ingredients

Homestyle

Hash

by Bailey Zygutis, Nutritionist, Vitruvian Fitness

Whether single or just by yourself for a few days, embrace the possibilities of tasty, healthy cooking that you don’t have to share. Here’s a little dish just for you.

1 cup

Frozen hash-style potatoes

1

Egg

1 tbs

Coconut oil

2 oz

Ground beef (pre-cooked)

1/2 tbs

Fennel seed

2 tsp

Garlic powder

2 tsp

Black Pepper

Pink salt to taste

1.

Heat skillet with coconut oil and add potatoes. Let brown (3 to 4 minutes) then flip. Allow flipped side to brown.

2.

Stir in ground beef, fennel seeds and garlic powder.

3.

Clear some room in the pan to fry an egg — crack and add in.

4.

Top with pink salt and black pepper.

Serves 1 | Prep Time 15 mins

Food for Thought Protein is an essential nutrient! It promotes satiety and provides sustainable energy, which makes it a key component of balanced meals.

Cooking meats in bulk is a great way to make this macronutrient more readily available. Grill, grind, slow-cook and/or smoke meats and store in glass containers for use for up to four days.

Photo by Bailey Zygutis

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HO L I D A Y 2022

Kelsie Pate FNP-c, Aesthetican (520) 719-0859

Casey Diggins, Cosmetologist (520) 350-0338

Brandy Prescott, Aesthetician (520) 245-6147

Valerie McCarthy, Cosmetologist (605) 695-6885

Christy Silva, Cosmetologist (520) 483-5141

Alicia Perez, Nail Tech (520) 450-6800

Book online or call for your appointment now!

520-719-0859 | 766 N. Park Ave (Across from BeDillon’s) www.casagrandemedspa.com

Out & About

Send us your photos!

To submit images of area events, people, pets and scenery for consideration please email to: photos@roxco.com

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 45

You

Health, Happiness, & Education

New Year’s Resolution:

Get Rich!

by Donna McBride, Pinal County Juvenile Court Program Administrator II

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HO L I D A Y 2022

W

ith 2023 almost here, we all can feel the crunch of holiday spending, travels and family gettogethers. Now is the time to get down to business and figure out how to save some money and get rich. Resolutions are at the top of list, too!

This resolution won’t necessarily help put money in your bank account, but I guarantee you’ll feel lighter, be more culturally enriched, and feel worth a million bucks.

How you ask? By volunteering!

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a program through Pinal County Juvenile Court that is always looking for volunteers. Our volunteer advocates serve primarily in an advocacy role and speak up for an abused or neglected child’s best interest in court.

Unlike volunteer programs that focus on mentoring, CASA is the only organization that empowers everyday citizens as appointed officers of the court who recommend the best possible outcome for an abused or neglected child’s future.

Our volunteers do not need to have any specific educational or professional background. All they need is the desire to help children.

We provide specialized 30-hour training that is flexible to any personal or professional schedule. You must be 21 years of age, complete an application, interview process and successfully pass background requirements, including a polygraph. We do this to ensure the safety of the children and to protect your integrity on behalf of the court.

Make a difference in a child’s life.

Advocate for a child in foster care.

Apply online today.

520-866-7076 CASAofPinalCounty.org

Children with a CASA advocate are more likely to receive services, twice as likely to find a safe, permanent home and half as likely to re-enter the foster care system.

But what about the volunteer? Ask any of our advocates and they will often tell you it is the hardest volunteer experience they have ever had. But it is also the most rewarding.

They “get rich” from all the hours spent helping their child be safe, get what they need to grow up and find a place to call home. It can’t be measured in dollars. It won’t put money in the bank or pay off those holiday spending sprees. But it will make you rich in so many other ways on a personal level.

Our communities offer many opportunities to get involved. Whether it is with your church, a nonprofit, service group, your local school or the courts, there is something for everyone. Many are family friendly so you can teach your own children or grandchildren about the richness of volunteerism.

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 47

Feature

HOLIDAY

Make all your

Christmases ‘Green’

with the Right Tree

by Blake Herzog

M

ost of us are attached to the idea of having a tree in our living room to celebrate the holidays, but — as with many traditions — it’s being reconsidered through the lens of their impact on the environment.

Whether that means a fresh-cut, fresh-smelling pine tree shedding needles throughout the season or a plastic replica that’s less messy and less charismatic (found in up to 80% of homes, according to a Nielsen survey), we wonder if we’re making the right choice.

It turns out the answer depends on several factors including what you already have at home and where your intended tree is grown or manufactured. There are some general guidelines that can help us get what’s best for us and the planet:

If you have an artificial tree at home:

The Earth-friendliest option is always going to be using what’s already at home, eliminating any emissions involved with transporting a new purchase.

If it’s presentable, use it for as many years as you can to keep it out of the landfill for as long as possible.

There’s little chance it’s going to be recyclable at the end of its useful life since most are made with fused steel and PVC, a petroleum-derived plastic that is difficult to repurpose, though at least one company, Oncor, sells recycled-PVC trees.

Because of the resources required to manufacture and ship the artificial tree, which in most cases is coming in from China, it can take a while to compensate for that 48

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environmental cost. Estimates of how long that takes range from five years up to 20 years.

If you’re getting a new tree:

When you need to pick up a new tree a “real” one is considered the most sustainable option. Most fresh-cut firs and pines on the market are grown as crops on farms in the U.S., and most of Arizona’s come from Oregon, a not-insignificant distance but a vast improvement over artificial ones imported from across the Pacific. They’re 100% biodegradable so if they do end up in the landfill it won’t add significantly to their load. A tree also can be turned into mulch, either doing it yourself or through a community collection.

A “living” potted tree that can eventually be replanted in a yard, park or other location will likely be much smaller than a cut tree and can keep giving long after the New Year arrives, planted in your backyard or a friend’s or in a local park or another appropriate location.

If you can’t buy a real tree:

Cut trees in particular can harbor mold, irritants and other allergens that can make some people around them miserable, but there are ways to avoid going with a conventional “fake” tree.

Wooden Christmas trees fashioned out of planks or branches that are biodegradable are increasingly popular, and DIYers can fashion their own. If you’re short on space you can attach a festive design to your wall.

HO L I D A Y 2022

Feature

Holiday

Community Holiday Events CASA GRANDE

COOLIDGE

Free photos with Santa will be available at the Casa Grande Library’s Main Branch, 449 N. Drylake St. (just south of Peart Park), from 2 to 5 p.m. The Electric Light Parade begins at 5:45 p.m. and spans Florence Boulevard for 1.5 miles between Colorado Street to 2nd Street.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring Mayor Craig McFarland and guests begins at 6 p.m. in front of City Hall, 510 E. Florence Blvd. www.facebook.com/cityofcg/events

The City of Coolidge will host its traditional Christmas Light Parade, inviting businesses, churches and organizations from across the Casa Grande Valley to participate and compete for cash prizes. There will be live entertainment before the parade at the park before the parade starts at 7 p.m., including photos with Santa ($2 for one; $3 for two). www.coolidgeaz.com/parks

Photos with Santa, Electric Light Parade & Tree Lighting Dec. 3, 2-7 p.m.

Along Florence Boulevard

MARICOPA

Tree Lighting Dec. 2, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Merry Copa Dec. 3, noon-5 p.m.

Location for both: Copper Sky Regional Park, 44345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Merry Copa is a holiday celebration for the entire family with crafts, entertainment, food trucks, snow, synthetic ice rink, vendors/shopping, tree lighting and, of course, a very special visit from Santa! www.maricopa-az.gov/events

Christmas in the Park and Light Parade Dec. 9, 4-8 p.m.

San Carlos Park, 300 W. Central Ave.

ELOY

Christmas in Eloy Dec. 10, 4-9 p.m.

Main Street Park Main Street Park activities including live music, food vendors, craft, games, rides and much more to choose from.

The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will be followed by the Electric Light Parade. www.eloyaz.gov

FLORENCE

Hometown Holiday Parade Dec. 2, 6-8 p.m.

Historic Downtown Main Street Will feature pictures with Santa, character appearances, food vendors, special presentations and the annual Light Parade, which starts at 7 p.m. www.florenceaz.gov

Scrumptious Sugar Christmas Cookies

T

he holiday season brings the baker out in many of us, even those who barely turn on the oven during the rest of the year. It’s a magical way to create something sweet for your family, especially your kids, and friends.

This 30-minute recipe makes 30 cookies you can create with a cutter or freehand, a quick way to spread the cheer far and wide!

Ingredients

1. Beat butter and sugar together in large bowl

2 cups

Granulated sugar

2/3 cup

Sour cream

1

Egg

2 tsp

Vanilla extract

4 cups

All-purpose flour

1/2 tsp

Baking powder

1/4 tsp

Salt

Frosting (optional)

1 1/2 cups Powdered sugar 1/4 cup

Butter, melted

2 tbs

Milk

1 tsp

Vanilla

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until light and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add sour cream, egg and vanilla, and beat until combined, scraping down the sides as necessary. Then add flour, baking powder and salt and mix until combined. A slightly soft dough should form.

2. Preheat oven to 350°. Roll out cookie dough on a large piece of wax paper to 1/4”-1/3" thickness, cut out desired shapes and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.

3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until they look slightly puffed and dry but are not yet browning at the edges. Watch color and texture for signs of doneness. Let cool completely before frosting.

Sugar Cookie Frosting:

In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over cooled cookies and decorate as desired. The frosting takes 1-2 hours to set.

30 cookies | Prep Time 20 minutes

GR ANDE LIVI NG 51

You

Health, Happiness, & Education

CAC Accepting Applications for New LPN to RN Bridge Program

by Angela Askey, Executive Director Public Relations and Marketing Central Arizona College

C

entral Arizona College is now accepting applications for the new Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) Bridge Program. This program is designed for current Arizona LPNs looking to earn their Associate of Applied Science-Nursing degree.

Those interested in additional information or an application to the program must attend a nursing information session where they will obtain an application.

Information sessions are held monthly during the academic year.

In just 2.5 semesters, students will receive the necessary education to earn an AAS-Nursing degree and sit for the Arizona Board of Nursing NCLEX RN exam to become a registered nurse. The course sequence begins for new students each fall and spring semester with a summer course preceding.

Application packets are due by 6 p.m., Feb. 15 for fall term and 6 p.m. June 15 for spring term. If the dates above fall on Friday or the weekend, the deadline date would be the following Monday.

Acceptance into CAC’s LPN to RN Bridge program is highly competitive with class space limited.

To view the monthly dates for information sessions and obtain the Zoom meeting link or to review the program requirements, visit: www.centralaz.edu/bridge.

64th Nursing Class to graduate from CAC. These graduates were recognized at the May 2022 Nurses Pinning Ceremony.

Photo courtesy of Central Arizona College

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You

Health, Happiness, & Education

The

Holidays Are Coming!

HERE ARE SOME SOLUTIONS TO MAKE THINGS EASIER AND LESS STRESSFUL MAKE SURE TO GET SOME AIR!

ASK FOR HELP!

Take a walk. Give yourself time alone.

Holidays don’t have to be about you doing everything by yourself.

Its more enjoyable when you can spend time with family too. Delegate as much as you feel comfortable with.

The holidays can be overwhelming and emotional.

It’s important to take care of your mental health during these times for yourself and your family.

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BE REALISTIC!

TRY TO ALWAYS RESPOND WITH KINDNESS. Being around family you haven’t seen in a while can be a challenge but in the end, its all about the memories.

Happy Holidays from the Casa Grande Alliance

Every holiday will not be perfect but it doesn’t have to be!

HO L I D A Y 2022

You

T

Health, Happiness, & Education

HOLIDAY FUN at your Casa Grande Public Libraries!

he holidays are right around the corner and hopefully you enjoy singing just as much as we do at the library. Bring the whole family down to the Vista Grande Public Library for a fun Holiday Sing-along!

This fun family event will be filled with snacks, songs and holiday cheer. Come and get your fill of Jingle Bells and all the other classics on Thursday, Dec. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.

If you’re looking to visit Santa this year, swing by the Casa Grande Main Library on Friday, Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m. for a fun holiday program just for kids. Christmas Evening at your Library will feature fun holiday books read by Santa himself. Holiday treats will be available, and Santa will stick around to pose for pictures. You won’t want to miss this annual Casa Grande tradition.

If you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids on New Year’s Eve, look no further than your Vista Grande Public Library.

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Why stay up until midnight when you can stay up for Noon Year’s Eve, a fun holiday for kids that celebrates New Years at noon. Bring the kids by the Vista Grande Library at 11 a.m. on Dec. 31 for snacks, a variety of party games and a fun countdown to noon complete with our very own library ball drop.

We look forward to spending the holidays with you and your family at your Casa Grande Public Library.

All programs are free and open to the public. Happy Holidays!

Vista Grande Public Library 1556 N. Arizola Rd. Casa Grande, AZ 85122 Casa Grande Main Library 449 N. Drylake St. Casa Grande, AZ 85122

HO L I D A Y 2022

Our K - 8th grade, tuition-free charter school offers innovative classroom technology so our scholars may build the future they want.

The Grande Innovation Academy is committed to our scholars’ potential and achieving their academic ambitions. Our one-of-a-kind interactive learning environment offers a FabLab, SMALLab, electives, and a differentiated learning program for gifted scholars.

For scholars needing flexibility, our Path to Potential on-line school offers 4th-8th grade scholars a fast-paced curriculum with the opportunity to still participate in school sports, clubs, and on-campus activities.

SMALLab with VR

Online School

Fab Lab with 3D Printing

Tuition Free

Full Day Kindergarten

Gifted Program

Discover the possibilities available for your children!

Now accepting applications.

l l o r En day !

To

GRANDE INNOVATION ACADEMY

www.GrandeInnovationAcademy.com (520) 381-2360

You

Pets

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G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

Bake Pet Treats for a

Heartwarming

Cold Season

by Blake Herzog

R

ight about now is the time when most of us start to turn toward home and look for ways to heat it beyond the reach of the furnace.

We’re cleaning out the fireplaces and putting sweaters and socks on everything within reach.

The next step is to fire up the oven for meals, snacks and desserts, and who better to bake for than your loyal four-legged friends? They may have a fur-coat advantage over us but are just as eager to participate in the family fun!

BEEFY DOG BISCUITS

CHICKEN AND RICE DOG TREATS

INGREDIENTS 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup oats 1/2 cup flaxseed 1/2 to 1 cups beef broth 1/4 cup peanut butter

INGREDIENTS 1 cup cooked finely diced chicken 1/2 cup rice, cooked and mashed 3 tablespoons rice flour 1 tablespoon parsley 1 egg

INSTRUCTIONS Heat oven to 350°. Stir the flour, oats and flaxseed in bowl. Add 1/2 cup beef broth and peanut butter. Form into a ball and turn out on a lightly floured surface. Roll to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Cool and keep in airtight container for up to a week.

INSTRUCTIONS Heat oven to 350°. Mix all ingredients well, then spoon into a silicon mold with small, fun shapes.

Bake until tops are golden brown, about 20-30 minutes. Let cool and remove from molds.

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Read on for three simple pet-safe recipes, two for dogs and one for cats — they’ll love your “fails” as much as your successes! These should be fine for most animals but if your pet has digestive issues you may want to check with your veterinarian before serving them.

CRUNCHY KITTY TUNA CRACKERS INGREDIENTS 6 oz. undrained tuna 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup flour 1/3 cup water INSTRUCTIONS Mix ingredients together. Roll into 1/4-inch pieces. Bake on a greased cookie sheet at 350° for 20 minutes.

Allow to cool.

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You

Pets

Paisley

Angels Sent from Above

by Gigi McWhirter

A

s the end of the year quickly approaches, we also see the beginning of the holiday (or HOWLiday as we say in our house) season and the time we gather with family and friends to show our love and appreciation for one another.

“Six months after your dog passes you still can’t talk about her: Yet some may say, "she was just a dog."

We also reflect on those who are no longer with us because they have transitioned out of their earthly body to their heavenly body.

You reach under your bed and stumble across an old toy of hers and burst into tears. Yet she was just a dog.

For those of us who have had the honor to love a dog or any other animal the feeling of loss is often the same as when a human passes, and sadleythere will be people who say: “It was just a dog (or cat, or horse or bird, or…).”

Hopefully, the following essay will help them understand what we who have loved an animal are feeling. Like me, you may have seen this meme/ quote by Emily Perez on social media:

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Just a Dog, Right?

By Emily Perez

After a long and mentally draining day at work, you’d give anything to be able to come home and just cuddle with her: Yet she was just a dog.

Those who have never owned one, will never get it. That dog, was your friend, cuddle buddy, jogging partner, playmate, anxiety reliever, alarm clock, guard dog, etc.

Just a dog, Right?”

Grief is a natural and normal response one feels after the loss of a loved one whether human or animal. Animals also may feel grief. Let’s remember to be kind to one another, offer an empathetic ear and do our best to help heal a broken heart.

If you think your pet is showing unusual symptoms and you suspect she may be suffering after the loss of a loved one, please discuss it with her veterinarian. For humans, there also are several websites such as www.rainbowsbridge.com to offer support and understanding. You can also find several books on the subject. Check with your hospital or clergy for grief counseling sources.

Grief is real and worthy of support.

May love and fond memories fill your hearts.

"Happy Tails to You"

HO L I D A Y 2022

Gift your Pets with Holiday Safety

by Blake Herzog

W

e’re getting ready to celebrate the holidays with our families and preparations won’t be complete without thinking about our fourlegged kids. This time of year holds some extra risks for them, which often arise from forgetting for a moment that they aren’t actually human.

Here are some ideas for keeping them safe, healthy and happy from now through New Year’s.

Tree trouble — Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet.

This also will prevent the tree water — which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset — from spilling.

A tree stand that comes with a cover or finding a way to DIY it is the best option. Also, don’t let them eat fallen needles or ornaments.

No slobbery kisses under the mistletoe — Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems, and it’s not the only live plant you need to watch out for. Holly can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea while lilies can cause kidney failure in cats. Choose artificial plants made from silk or plastic or a pet-safe bouquet.

Keeper of the flame — Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders and place them on a stable surface as far out of your pet’s reach as possible.

Get greedy with people food — Don’t let your darlings guilt you into dispensing treats they shouldn’t eat, including candy and sweets, fatty and greasy leftovers or bones. Remember the lengths your dog or cat could go to to get this kind of food and keep them away from unattended tables, plates of food and especially plates of food. Secure the lids on all garbage cans.

Safe space — Set an escape-proof room aside where pets can take refuge from stressful moments, especially noisy fireworks.

Guide your guests — Let your animal-loving friends and relatives give pets extra attention and exercise, but warn them about holiday hazards, too.

The Pinal County Press

Florence Dentist Building Bigger Office D

r. Jason Whetten has been practicing dentistry in Florence for 14 years, first on Main Street and for the last 12 at 495 N. Pinal Parkway. He’s now building a new office for his growing Florence Family Dentistry business just across the street, re-emphasizing his commitment to the community and his patients.

The 2,500-square-foot building will have six rooms, Whetten said during a groundbreaking ceremony in August.

“We will also have new state-of-the-art equipment that will help our office be more efficient for our patients,” he said according to a Town of Florence press release. Construction is expected to take 10 months.

The development process began last year when Whetten approached Menlo Group Commercial Real Estate, which is based in Tempe and focused on the dental industry, about purchasing the vacant

land. Contractor Concept Commercial Construction, Associate Architects and other firms have since joined the team to bring his dream to fruition.

Florence officials have worked with the team and are enthusiastic about the expansion of Florence Family Dentistry.

Mayor Tara Walter said, “We are thrilled to see another groundbreaking celebration in the Town of Florence. Our town continues to grow, and it is great to see local businesses prosper, expand and invest both in their future as well as the Town’s.”

Harvey Krauss, the Town’s new Economic Development Director, said, “In light of the thriving residential development throughout the Town, I am pleased to see that Florence Family Dentistry will be expanding its facility to help accommodate our growing community.”

Dr. Jason Whetten

He added, “As development continues, new and expanded medical service facilities like this one will be needed to serve our Town’s growing population.”

Whetten thanked his staff and real estate and development team as the ceremony drew to a close, calling the new office a “win-win” for the Florence and his team. He emphasized his appreciation of all the support he and his family has received over the years.

“I have gotten to know so many residents in the community. The patients I saw as little kids are all grown up now,” he said.

Florence Boulevard Continued from page 13

The streetscape project divides the boulevard into three distinct stretches that have slightly different characteristics and priorities: • Freeway — The mile between I-10 and Henness Road, populated mainly by hotels, convenience stores and restaurants, could see sidewalk and other improvements oriented toward pedestrians, bicyclists and other nonmotorized users but will have more of a vehicular focus to accommodate traffic coming on and off the freeway and heading to Casa Grande Promenade, Mission Royale and other points east of the freeway.

• Midtown — The 2 miles between Henness and Trekell roads has Banner Casa Grande Medical Center and medical offices, Walmart, Home

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Depot and Lowe’s, and many of the city’s banks. It will have more of an emphasis on sidewalks and bikeways but still be accommodating to vehicular traffic.

• Downtown — The last mile between Trekell and Pinal Avenue contains City Hall and Peart Park and is the main access point to the historic downtown. Officials could consider on-street parking, enhanced sidewalk improvements and other changes intended to make it more pedestrianand bicycle-friendly.

Horn said officials have been looking at examples from cities including Chandler and Mesa, and images from Tolleson, Scottsdale and other cities are used as examples to prompt discussion on the streetscape website.

Sculptures, colorful crosswalks, directional signs, landscaped medians and eye-catching benches are among the improvements pictured.

About 200 residents and stakeholders had completed the initial online survey as of early October, with the answers compiled and a new survey posted with more detailed design concepts in time for a November public meeting.

If the project goes as scheduled, a design plan will be completed next spring and, if it’s approved by the City Council, staff will draw up construction plans and bid documents, with work potentially starting in early 2024.

“It’s a super exciting project. If and when we implement it, I think it has the potential of being game-changing for the city. I really do,” Horn said.

HO L I D A Y 2022

Local News by Blake Herzog – Continued

Favored Design Advances for Widened I-10 T he environmental assessment report for the widening of Interstate 10 between Casa Grande and Chandler has completed its first stages, providing a glimpse of what the project will add to increase the capacity and safety of the crucial 26-mile link through the Gila River Indian Community between fastgrowing Pinal County and the Valley.

As presented online at www.i10wildhorsepasscorridor.com and during a series of public hearings in September, at least one lane of traffic will be added in each direction on the freeway, for a total of six lanes across. Highoccupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes will be added to the northern end of the stretch, between the Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) and Riggs Road.

Officials from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) said the median will be expanded for the full length of the project and barriers added to prevent crossover crashes. The shoulders will be widened to give drivers more room to pull off I-10 to further improve safety.

In addition, all five freeway interchanges along the segment would be upgraded and a sixth one added. Going from south to north: • State Routes 387/187/Pinal Avenue — Crossroads will be widened and traffic lights will be added to both intersections. A new bridge just north of the existing one would be built to increase the traffic capacity while maintaining the basic configuration of the interchange.

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

• Seed Farm Road — A new diamondstyle interchange is proposed about 3 miles north of the Sacaton rest stop at this road that leads to Sacaton to improve traffic flow within the Gila River Indian Community.

• State Route 587/Casa Blanca Road —This interchange has tight, curving ramps and requires drivers on Casa Blanca Road to go through the interchange. The proposed redesign would turn it into a more conventional diamond interchange, but roundabouts would be installed to control traffic flow.

• State Route 347/Queen Creek Road — ADOT proposes to upgrade this interchange with a “diverging diamond” design, which uses two overpasses, one for each direction of traffic, crossing over the interstate while on the opposite side of where they would normally be. Officials say this configuration is safer and more efficient and will allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross over the freeway.

A second bridge would be built over the freeway to accommodate this design. A computer simulation of how drivers would use this interchange is available on the project website.

• Wild Horse Pass Road/Sundust Road — This intersection also would be converted into a diverging diamond configuration under ADOT’s plan.

• Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) — Because it already has six lanes, only the pavement striping and signage would be updated.

4-year construction timeline Project Manager Carlos Lopez said during a Sept. 20 virtual meeting that all public comments submitted during the first phase of the environmental assessment process will be incorporated into the final report. It’s expected to be completed early next year and submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which must approve it before the project can move forward or qualify for federal funding.

The state has applied for $360 million of federal National Infrastructure Project Assistance, known as the Mega Grant Program, whose awardees are scheduled to be announced this fall. That would fully fund the projected $990 million when combined with $400 million allocated by the state Legislature and about $230 million from the Maricopa Association of Governments.

If all goes according to plan, construction is expected to begin in late 2023 and will take about 4 years to complete.

Lopez said alternative funding sources if the state doesn’t win the Mega grant are “to be determined. It would include all options including federal grants, future federal grants and other federal, state and local funding opportunities that could arise.”

He said the widening could also move ahead with partial funding,

GR ANDE LIVI NG 63

You

Home & Garden

Come on In This $745,000, 2,921 square-foot, four-bedroom home is modern, elegant and luxuriously accented with details and custom upgrades in the prestigious Casa Grande community of Coyote Ranch. It has two full bathrooms, as well as a partial one.

S

ee the grand and dramatic 16-foot entryway with pavers laid in a herringbone pattern, custom ceiling and double wrought iron doors at 287 W. Crimson Sky Court.

Wood plank tile throughout gives this home a cohesive feel. Open concept living comes with 12-foot ceilings and a 12-foot slider that leads you to the outdoor oasis.

An over-the-top gourmet kitchen boasts a 10-foot center island with two-toned custom cabinetry by J&K Cabinetry. There is flex space off the kitchen with an additional half bath perfect for guests. The laundry room features custom cabinetry, tile backsplash and a built in utility sink.

Kitchen also includes:

•

Quartz countertops

•

GE Cafe appliances

•

Six-burner gas range

•

Pot filler

•

Custom masonry work

•

Herringbone subway tile

•

Dining nook

•

Oversized pantry

Upgraded lighting and chandeliers ooze extravagance throughout this home.

The split floor plan offers a spacious primary suite with separate entry to the back patio. The large walk-in shower features neutral tile and a monitor equipped with control settings to provide you with the perfect temp, all thanks to the tankless water heater. Features include a raised bathroom vanity with double sinks, quartz counters, Kohler fixtures and custom mirrors.

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

Three secondary bedrooms are designed with ample closet space and secondary bathroom featuring Kohler fixtures, raised bathroom vanity, quartz countertops and tasteful tile work in the walk-in shower.

The three-car garage is fully insulated with epoxy flooring and separate entry to backyard.

Enjoy resort style living, right in the backyard. The 1/2 acre lot features an oversized extended patio with pavers, fire pit, outdoor television, outdoor fans and a fog wall misting system. The jaw-dropping custom pool has both fire and water features plus a hot tub surrounded by radiant white limestone and lined with artificial turf. The RV gate is perfect for parking all your toys.

Curb appeal is no concern for this home. Beautiful green artificial turf with complementing low maintenance rock out front ensures your landscape looks great all year long. Pulling into the driveway never looked better with the lattice turf inlay that all the neighbors envy.

There is much, much more to see and admire in this custom home that will not disappoint.

Erin Dugan, REALTOR® 520.709.0998 520-423-8250 ROXsells.com 1919 N. Trekell Rd., Casa Grande

GR ANDE LIVI NG 65

You

Home & Garden

Design a Nursery for Baby and You

by Blake Herzog

W

hen you’re bringing a new baby home, you should put them in a room where the lighting and temperature can be easily controlled and the decor easily customized when your child’s own personality and preferences emerge.

It should harmonize with the rest of your home but have a fresh, uncluttered perspective. And above all it should be a safe haven, free from dangerous furniture, harmful substances and incorporating natural elements to begin fostering a love for the environment.

Nurseries serve three main functions and should be organized into “zones” that support each activity — plus some little luxuries you can enjoy together.

SLEEPING

You may think all cribs are rectangular platforms bounded by wooden slats, but they come in all shapes, sizes and materials. Some are even done with acrylic slats or sides for 100% visibility. A few even have built-in monitors and sensors that can rock your baby back to sleep.

But you may choose to start with a cradle and bassinet for a snugger and more portable environment, and they lend themselves even more to luxurious styles and materials, though a marble bassinet might be a bit impractical.

Put whimsical wallpaper or stickers on the ceiling to entertain a baby who will be spending a lot of time face-up.

FEEDING

A rocker may be the most timehonored type of seating for this vital,

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time-consuming task, but glider chairs provide a gentler ride for both of you. Many are recliners as well, and they come in every design aesthetic you can imagine, ready to be integrated into another room later on.

Look for ones with push-button controls and USB charging ports to make this time more effortless and multifunctional.

CHANGING

There are ways to make this part of the day more fun for everyone, starting with ultra-plush table toppers that can be safely attached to the top of an heirloom dresser to draw some family history into the mix.

A purpose-built changing table can me more convenient, and some can be converted into child-size furniture once the diapering days are “behind” you.

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You

Home & Garden

These Bathroom Trends Picking Up Steam

by Blake Herzog

A

re you closing in on that 10-year time frame when many bathrooms begin losing their luster? Are you starting to mentally budget for a makeover, minor or major?

counters and floors will make it a truly customized retreat that will send your day or night in the right direction.

Consider these slightly off-center fashions and features getting noticed by designers and consumers!

functional. Arranging smaller light fixtures in a line, triangle, trapezoid or some pattern known only to you will break up the blank space with flair and can be placed exactly where you want the light to shine on your lovely face. This can easily be combined with the sconces installed on top of mirrors that are also making waves, though it can be more challenging to find the right wattage that won’t create too much glare.

No curtains for curtains — You don’t need to

worry about jumping onto the glass shower door track if you don’t have the budget or inclination for it, since plenty of people are embracing the texture and movement of cloth and vinyl panels. They easily define your bathroom’s design, and are just as easily switched out when it’s time for something new.

Commit to a color — If there’s a hue you just can’t

get enough of, your bathroom is the place to embrace it! It’s your space with minimal visits by guests at the most, and they’ll probably love it, too. Combining the right shades of gray, blue, pink, green, yellow, purple or whatever color makes your heart sing on the walls, 68

G R A ND E L I V I NG

Stack your sconces — They’re like wall art, only

Slide that sink to the side — This might fly in the

face of your desire for symmetry but hear us out. Giving yourself a larger expanse of counterspace gives you lots more options for your morning and evening needs rather than trying to fit your trays and baskets into smaller surfaces, with room for a plant or lamp to spare.

It also helps to keep the faucet’s spray from splattering all over at least one side of the counter.

HO L I D A Y 2022

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This loan is a fixed rate based on a 30 year amortization. The full unpaid principal balance is due within 15 years (180 months). Based on a Loan Amount of $300,000, a 15% down payment, and a fixed rate of 4% (4.186% APR), this transaction would have 180 initial monthly principal and interest payments of $1432.25. The full remaining balance of $193,627.42 will be due on the 180th month if no other additional principal payments were made during the preceding 180 months. Membership in Mountain America Credit Union required. Other conditions and requirements apply. Available only for properties in AZ, CO, ID, NV, NM, OR, UT, and WA. MAC123-1478864

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 69

Real Estate Market Statistics Arizona City, Casa Grande, Coolidge, Eloy, Maricopa and Stanfield

September Numbers at a Glance

Median $/SF $200.20

Days on Market 3.2

SEPTEMBER

2022

2021

% INCREASE DECREASE

SOLD LISTINGS

500

543

- 7.9%

ACTIVE LISTINGS

1,601

615

+ 160.3%

PRICE PER SQUARE FT (median sale)

$200.20

$179.31

+ 11.7%

MONTHS SUPPLY OF INVENTORY

3.20

1.13

+ 182.7%

DAYS ON THE MARKET (median)

40

24

+ 66.7%

This information is brought to you by: Coldwell Banker ROX Realty 520.423.8250 | ROXsells.com

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Sold Listings 500

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Source: ARMLS® Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service. Statistics provided by: RapidStats Generated on 10/12/2022. Copyright © 2022 - All Rights Reserved. Information deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed.

HO L I D A Y 2022

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 71

You

Home & Garden

What ROX and What Sux?

Sherwin-Williams 2023 Color of the Year, Redend Point

What Sux in paint colors? Dead Salmon — yes, Dead Salmon.

What ROX? Sherwin Williams’ 2023 Color of the Year, Redend Point.

It comes from Farrow & Ball, a pricey, small-batch British brand with a penchant for oddball names. This one apparently was inspired by the flat or “dead” pinkish paint seen on a historic Derby manor house since 1805.

They should have taken the hint from that deadness.

While this one’s name also takes a moment to get beyond, this slightly reddened beige is a gorgeously warmed-up neutral that’s especially perfect for our sun-toasted desert.

It’s a skillful blend that highlights the best qualities of both, mixing grounding earthiness with the sweetest pinks of the sunrise.

This salmon color looks like a cross-breeding of two very played-out shades, ‘80s mauve and millennial pink, and should be consigned to the rusty buckets of history!

We’re all looking forward to seeing this cheerfully levelheaded hue bloom across interiors and exteriors, cabinets, counters, textiles and accessories. If you want to make your home more inviting in the new year, pick up a few cans of this lovely paint.

$599,000

2119 N LAKESHORE DR., CASA GRANDE 2,558 SF, 4 BED | 2.5 BATH

Community offers golf course views with a private lake and clubhouse access! Executive level, spacious move-in ready home overlooking the golf course with the expected amenities such as fireplace, granite counters, upgrades thoughout and loads of storage. Half-bath exits to the diving pool. Low maintenance backyard with extended paver patio for entertaining.

Owner/agent Bea Lueck 520.560.5671 520.423.8250 • ROXsells.com • 1919 N. Trekell Rd., Casa Grande ©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

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HO L I D A Y 2022

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GR ANDE LIVI NG 73

You

Home & Garden

Remake Bedroom without Breaking the Bank

by Blake Herzog

W

hen it comes to remodeling and updating homes, bedrooms often get passed over.

They’re tucked away in the back of the house, not usually seen by visitors and often not really noticed by the people who sleep there because they spend most of their sentient hours elsewhere.

It can also get pricey to replace beds, dressers and vanities.

Yet making bedrooms as comfortable and pleasant as possible is important for promoting restful, restorative sleep.

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HOL I D AY 2 0 2 2

It’s also a space you can truly make your own; you don’t have to take outside opinions into consideration.

Here are some affordable ways to transform your sleeping quarters into a haven.

COLOR IT BEAUTIFUL

Your room may already be coated in neutral, nonthreatening colors, but do you actually like them? If you find them too neutral, look for a paint scheme that engages you without overstimulating you as you drift off to sleep.

Consider an accent wall behind or in front of your bed.

GET CREATIVE WITH WALL ART

This doesn’t mean you need to paint, draw or photograph something on your own, though it’s a fabulous idea if you have the time and inclination!

Other unconventional choices like rugs, quilts, plates and baskets may be found elsewhere in your home, or you can browse thrift stores, fabric shops and other local businesses for ideas.

If you find something that won’t be easy to frame, you can hang it on a tree branch or curtain rod. Make sure you have the right mounting support for heavier objects.

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LIVEN WITH LINENS

Sheets and comforters are another obvious source of color and comfort. Finding a new, compelling duvet over a decade-old quilt or blanket might be all it takes to revitalize your space and make it a place that draws you in.

Buying new sheets doesn’t have to be expensive, and it can make your bed much more inviting and soothing as you wind down from the energy and stress of the day.

INVEST IN PERSONAL STATEMENTS

Sometimes it just takes one large piece to level your bedroom up to a refuge.

A statement lighting fixture can be suspended from the ceiling or positioned as a lamp in the corner to revamp its atmosphere. A roomier nightstand could be more accommodating to your evening and morning routines.

Even investing in a gorgeous wooden bed can save some money in the long run by being a focal point that doesn’t require much surrounding décor to make the room appealing.

W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

Advertise Your Business in Grande LIVING Magazine For Advertising Info:

www.grande-living.com or info@roxco.com GR ANDE LIVI NG 75

The

Interview

Continued from page 19

Between them they raise about $30 million a year. And most of the money goes to students, hospitals, the Boys and Girls Clubs and to different charities in the area. So I said “Why don’t we start one down here?” I thought we need it more than anybody else because we have 350,000 people in this county and the need here is great. So I got started and in May of 2014, we met at Golden Eagle Distributors. At that first meeting, we had about 25, 30 guys show up. I had the president of the Compadres make a presentation. And we talked to these 25 guys and we, you know, set things up. It took us three months to figure out a name and we settled on Pinal 40. At the present time, we are up to 38 members. Basically we already had an event with the St. Patrick’s Day party which I knew would raise money.

But then what we did was we turned it into a three-day event! Our idea was to bring all these dairy farmers in from all over the country. Then the corporate guys will follow.

Rock is one of the members. You were too, Brett. The first year the event netted $184,000! We gave $135,000 of that away. $40,000 to Boys and Girls Club, $40,000 to ag scholarships, $10,000 FFA, $10,000 to the County Fair, $15,000 to various charities, and $20,000 to an endowment fund. So our goal is to eventually get 40 members. Each member has to raise $5,000. Personally, my goal is to have Pinal 40 raise a half a million dollars a year. There are a lot of great organizations in this town that need help.

Our next step is to go out into corporate America to the big corporations who are involved in the dairy industry.

GRANDE LIVING: There was a period in your career a few years ago where you decided you needed to get into politics. Tell us about that.

Dennis Dugan: For about 10 or 12 years, I was involved with the St. Anthony’s School Board; then I got involved with the FFA and with a lot of help we took the FFA Steak Fry to a different level, which is great because it continues today. I was always involved in the community, community events, and so I thought, well, it’s time that I get involved in another way and I wanted to get involved 76

G R A ND E L I V I NG

HO L I D A Y 2022

The with the county. I told myself “it’s part of giving back”. It certainly wasn’t for the salary, I think at that time it was $53,000. I was frustrated with what was going on at the county. And then when I started digging more and more into the county, and I discovered a tremendous amount of waste over there. I reviewed the budget for the last three years and grew irritated.

I said there’s … We need somebody in there that can make a difference and I figured that I could make a difference. And that’s primarily the reason I ran. I lost by, I think, 220 votes or so… It kind of hurts when you lose, but after six or eight months you move on. It turned out for the best.

GRANDE LIVING: (Laughs.) While I still have you, where did you meet your wife Kelly?

Dennis Dugan: When I came down here in ‘81, I was very fortunate to meet my wife. I first met her at Cotton Hill. We started dating.

Her name was Kelly Hackler. I was blessed to have met a great gal like Kelly and we got married in 1985. Kelly has been my goto person when I am faced with challenges, say the wrong thing, or anything else, but, uh…

GRANDE LIVING: Which is quite often!

Dennis Dugan: Yes, quite often… because I put my foot in my mouth a lot of times. But she is great.

She’s a great person to bounce

Interview

things off of. She has been my strength to get through all the things I’ve been through in my lifetime in the last 31 years. Her mother Nadine and dad Hack have been living with us for six years and she’s been the caregiver and it takes a special person to do that.

She’s just a, just a great woman and I’m very, very lucky to have her as my partner.

GRANDE LIVING: She’s the one who covers what we affectionately refer to as “Duganisms”.

Dennis Dugan: Yes. (Laughs) . . . the “Duganisms”. Ever since I was born I have had a speech impediment.

To compensate, I make up words, so what we do is we call them “Duganisms”.

The Dugan Family 2021 from left: Grandson Matthew, Dennis, Grandson Jack, Wife Kelly, Son David, Grandson Ty, Daughter in Law Erin Photo by Egan Eyes Photography W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

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Fun

TRAVEL, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Blarney Castle Photo by Tori Ward

IRELAND

Always Feels Like a Big Hug— Part 1 of 2

by Tori Ward, ROX Travel, Cruise and Resort Specialist

Ireland! It’s known as the land of mischievous leprechauns, wish-granting fairies and pots of gold at the end of the rainbow, but what makes Ireland magical is her people.

W

e wanted to enjoy all we could pack into 10 days, so decided a private tour as opposed to renting a car would provide us with the ability to focus on the villages dotted along rugged coastlines and not stress over narrow, winding and unfamiliar roads dodging sheep.

Our private guide from Love Irish Tours™, Gordon, met us in our hotel lobby in Dublin and we were off to Blarney with a morning stop at the Rock of Cashel. Before we had reached the outskirts of the city we were ready to adopt this gentle and warm-hearted young man.

The Rock of Cashel is a hauntingly beautiful and well-preserved medieval complex, complete with castle and chapel, surrounded by an ancient Celtic graveyard. The main fortress was the seat of the power in Munster prior to the Norman Invasion.

Next we were delighted to arrive in Cork and the town of Blarney for lunch, and then off to visit the stone said to hold the power of eloquence.

In truth, I found the grounds with its meandering stream and the gardens exploding with spring enthusiasm more compelling.

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The long march up stone steps to kiss a cold slab while hanging backward over a parapet did not honor me with the gift of gab. A visit to Blarney Woolen Mills, well, Merry Christmas Fam. We were on the Ring of Kerry after breakfast the next morning and while we enjoyed some hearty laughs with Gordon, his explanation of the famine houses and oppression of the Irish people that led to 1.5 million residents leaving this beautiful country for America to never see their families again was sobering.

The tumbled-down stone reminders of these cottages are a living tribute of the Irish for the respect they have for their ancestors.

The drive along this breathtaking coastline eventually led us to Dingle where we enjoyed strolling through the shops while marveling at our luck at clear skies and gentle breezes. We took advantage of it to walk the path down to the shore.

Skellig Rock, where monks retreated in the sixth century, lies south and the Blasket Islands off the west coast. The last inhabitants were moved from the islands in 1954 although camping is allowed.

However, tourism to Skellig, where scenes from one of the Star Wars movies was filmed, is strictly controlled.

The two days we were based in Killarney allowed us ample time to explore Killarney National Park, the Torc Waterfall and the Lakes of Killarney. At Muckross Lake we toured the 19-century mansion where no expense was spared for a two-night visit of Queen Victoria in 1861. The rich tapestries and furnishings involved with the renovations and preparation took years to complete and led to the financial ruin of the owner.

Our nights in Killarney were spent enjoying live music in a local pub; every stool was occupied and an older gentleman kindly waved us into the small booth he was vacating.

As much as we wished our stay in Killarney would never end, we still had much to explore as we continued our journey to County Clare.

In our next issue, I will take you with me to Bunratty, Kylemore Manor, the Cliffs of Moher and complete the adventure at Trim Castle. With a Braveheart, until next time, Sláinte.

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Fun Arts & Culture

A Brief History of Casa Grande

CHRISTMAS CHEER

by Blake Herzog Photos courtesy of The Museum of Casa Grande

Winter holidays in Casa Grande have never had the snowy coziness depicted in vintage Christmas cards, but the warmth coming from the sun and the hearts of its residents was always more than enough to bring friends, families and neighbors together to feel the glow in the early 20th century.

A Valley National Bank branch in Casa Grande decorated for the holidays in the 1950s.

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Christmas mailbags piled up in the Casa Grande post office, 1950. Women pictured are (from left) Fannie Armenta and N. Bess Prather, who was postmaster from 1938-1955.

A Dec. 20, 1912 blurb in the Casa Grande Times announced the Casa Grande Commercial Club’s plans to host a “big entertainment and dance” to be held Christmas Eve at Maldonado Hall, a venue used for similar events around that time. It noted that club Chairman T.J. Meehan and committee member George P. Bennett “are doing the active work and as they are known to be rustlers, the results are not to be questioned.”

The business district they strolled through was decked out with Christmas trees, ornaments and “ornate lights of green, red, blue, orange and other bright colors so that in the evening the town now takes on the appearance of a veritable fairyland of Christmas joy,” the Dispatch said. The lights were furnished by Arizona Edison, the predecessor of APS memorialized with a sign in Casa Grande Neon Park.

Santa returned to the Paramount the following Saturday, this time bearing gifts for some 600 boys and girls. On Christmas Eve he gave out 800 bags of candy in front of the Community Christmas Tree at Sacaton and Second streets as the crowd belted out “Silent Night.” The writer continued, “Altogether, it was one of the merriest events ever staged in Casa Grande, if the size of the audience and the heartiness of the singing are to be accepted as tokens.”

Source: The Museum of Casa Grande

The first mention of a “municipal Christmas tree” comes from Dec. 10, 1920, in a Casa Grande Dispatch item that doesn’t indicate where the tree would be displayed but says Mrs. J.J. Kruse and Mrs. H.D. Wilson were to be in charge of the program, during which Santa Claus would visit and bring “remembrances” for the children attendees were encouraged to bring.

A brief in the same day’s paper also proves Casa Grande’s “shop local” movement is at least 100 years old: “Don’t send out of town for Christmas presents, toys or any other supplies. The local merchants have everything you may need and as cheap or cheaper than Phoenix or any other place. It pays to build up your own town.”

‘ONE OF THE MERRIEST EVENTS EVER STAGED IN CASA GRANDE’ As the Great Depression bore down on the nation in 1930, Santa was especially generous during the two-weekend Casa Grande Christmas Festival. He met with a mob of 400 children at a public bandstand at First and Sacaton streets and shared several stories as well as “initiating them into some of the inner most secrets of his life.”

He then morphed into the Pied Piper and led them on a tour through downtown to the Paramount Theatre to watch some comedy shorts.

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Flossie Barmes (Cq), a founding member of the Casa Grande Historical Society, with door decoration in 1975.

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Fun Travel, Dining & Entertainment

E-bikes Extend your Range for

Outdoor Fun

by Blake Herzog

E-bikes are the “it” vehicle of 2022 as people discover the advantages of this hybrid of a traditional bicycle and motorcycle. You still get to pedal, but a battery-powered motor affixed or hidden within the bicycle frame allows the rider to travel up to 28 mph, depending on the bike.

They’re gaining popularity with commuters but also make outdoor exploration on two wheels more widely accessible, especially for seniors and those with disabilities.

Almost everybody who can ride a traditional bike can ride an e-bike and the motor makes it much easier to clear hills and maintain your speed.

TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED: Know what you’re riding — There are three classes of e-bikes with slightly different capabilities. Class 1 bikes can go up to 20 mph and have a motor that can supply an “electric assist,” but it will only kick in while you’re pedaling. Class 2s also max out at 20 mph and you can use the electric assist when you aren’t pedaling. Class 3 e-bikes operate the same way as Class 1s but can go up to 28 mph and can face more restrictions from bicycle and multiuse paths than the others.

Use your assist wisely — Most Class 2 and 3 e-bikes include a throttle for the motor, giving you three or four levels of assist from the motor. The lowest is usually labeled as “eco” and the highest “turbo.” These directly affect the life of the battery, so it’s generally best to stay away from the “turbo” end unless you really need it.

WWW . G RA N D E- L I VI N G.COM

Weight affects operation — The battery adds around 20 pounds and allows an e-bike to go faster than a typical bicycle, which means you need to brake earlier and with more force for it to stop when you want it to. This weight can also make it more difficult to pedal when the battery runs out or you’re not using the electric assist, which depending on your fitness level can limit your ability to use it.

Pedal quickly — Most e-bikes operate more efficiently if you pedal with a faster cadence than what you use on a traditional bicycle. It will still work if you pedal more slowly but this will extend the life of the battery and provide a smoother ride.

Safety first — Helmets are mandatory for those younger than 18 and recommended for everyone. Install front and rear lights and a rear-view mirror if they’re not already on the e-bike.

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Now!

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR November 16th

November 5th

Visit the Ostrich Ranch Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch Picacho 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM The Ostrich Ranch has an amazing variety of animals that visitors can watch and feed, including stingrays, goats, miniature donkeys, fallow deer, tortoises, and lots of ostriches! Located

by Picacho Peak State Park, just off I-10.

Hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Nov. 16 thru Apr. 30.

520.466.3658 www.roostercogburn.com

Party at the Park Relay For Life Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM Join us for our annual event - Party at the Park! While the heart of Relay For Life is to celebrate, remember, and fight back against cancer, this is for everyone in our community and is a family festival-style event.

Entertainment, food trucks, craft market, family fun zone, raffle, and more! www.relayforlife.org/ maricopaaz

November 11th VW Round Up Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena Maricopa 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Two days of live music, drum circles, VW car show hosted by Desert Dubs, VW light-up contest, Saturday evening hot air balloon glow, kids zone, vendors, stein competition, raffles, Pitmaster BBQ Challenge & more! Camping available! $20 per carload per day. $50 for weekend camping. BYOB! www.historicflorencefoundation.org

November 15th

November 16th

Explore Pinal County’s History Pinal County Historical Museum Florence 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Open Tue.-Sat. and has a wide range of exhibits, including Native American culture, day-to-day life in early Florence, 2nd Territorial Prison artifacts, antique clothing, cactus furniture, farm machinery, vintage fire engines, and much more. Admission is $7 for adults, under 18 free. Free admission on first Sat. of each month. See website for information on Historic Florence Walking Tours and Cemetery Walking Tours.

520.868.4382

Coolidge Rotary Club Monthly Meeting Coolidge Chamber of Commerce Coolidge 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM The Coolidge Rotary Club was established in 1937 and is a part of Rotary International. Meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. Attend in person at the Coolidge Chamber of Commerce (351 N. Arizona Blvd.) or join via Zoom. For a Zoom meeting link, send an email to suebacon1210@ gmail.com.

520.518.5060 www.rotaryclubcoolidge.org

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Pinal County Board of Supervisors Meeting Pinal County Administrative Complex Florence 9:30 AM Board meetings are broadcast live and the public may access the meeting on the BOS Videos page on the Pinal County website. Board agendas are available at https://pinal.novusagenda.com/agendapublic. Meetings are held in the 1891 Historic Courthouse, 135 N. Pinal St. in Florence. Anyone wishing to address the board may do so during the “Call to Public” at 9:30 a.m. during regular session board meetings.

520.866.6068 www.pinalcountyaz.gov/bos/Pages/ Home.aspx Learn about Arizona’s Geology Pinal Geology & Mineral Museum Coolidge 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Exhibits include fossils from all over the world, gems and minerals and children’s activities. Check their website for information on monthly meetings of the Pinal County Gem and Mineral Society. The museum is located at 351 N. Arizona Blvd. in Coolidge. Open Wed.-Sat. 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 520.723.3009 www.pinalgeologymuseum.org

Check out www.pinalnow.com for a current calendar of events including updated listings.

HO L I D A Y 2022

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER November 16th

November 17th

November 18th

Explore Local History The Museum of Casa Grande 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM The Museum of Casa Grande is open Wed. through Sat. Collections include historic artifacts, archives, photography, and more. The exhibits portray the development of mining, agriculture, railroad expansion, settlement, and technology. Admission is $5/ adults, $4/seniors and is free for children and members. Located at 110 W. Florence Blvd.

520.836.2223 www.tmocg.org

Yoga in the Garden Boyce Thompson Arboretum Superior 9:30 AM All-level yoga practice takes place in our natural garden setting led by certified instructor, Deb McClarnon.

Please come prepared with your own mat (perhaps a towel or blanket too, for extra padding) and weather-appropriate clothing, as these classes will take place outdoors. See website for additional dates in Nov. and Dec. Pre-registration required.

520.689.2723 www.btarboretum.org

Live Music at A Latte Vino: Nancy Elliott A Latte Vino Casa Grande 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Playing tonight will be Nancy Elliott and the eclectic sounds of Equipata!

Check the website for their live music calendar for Nov. and Dec. Located at 958 E. Rodeo Rd. in Casa Grande.

520.788.6677 www.alattevino.com/music-events

Live Music at San Tan Flat: Rod Kent San Tan Flat Queen Creek 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM San Tan Flat has live music from Wed. through Sun. every week. Located at 6185 W. Hunt Highway in Queen Creek.

Visit the events calendar page on their website for the Nov. music lineup.

480.882.2995 www.santanflat.com

November Art Classes & Workshops Casita Workshop Casa Grande Casita Workshop has a variety of classes available in November. Check the website for class details and availability. Book your spot early as there are limited spaces available. This month’s classes include: Exploring Watercolor for Beginners - Level 1 and 2, Expanding Your Watercolor - Intermediate Level 3, Clay Basics for Beginners, Open Clay Day, Silk Scarf Workshop, Beading, and Fused Glass Suncatchers. www.casitaworkshop.com

Art & Sip The Roost Sports Bar & Cafe Maricopa 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Paint and sip events every Wednesday in November at The Roost in Maricopa.

Party starts at 7:00 PM! No experience necessary. Visit website for details and to sign up. Contact Kaui Wilson at KauiWilson.Art@gmail.com or on social media: @KauiWilson.

602.796.8194 www.theartandsip.com

November 17th Visit the Arboretum Boyce Thompson Arboretum Superior 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Discover Arizona’s first and oldest botanical garden, situated on 343 acres of scenic upland desert with nearly five miles of trail. See website for tours, tai chi and yoga classes, special events and visitor information. Located 4 miles west of Superior on Hwy. 60.

Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

520.689.2723 www.btarboretum.org

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Comedy Night & Karaoke The Roost Sports Bar & Cafe Maricopa The Roost has Comedy Night every Thursday from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Free admission to this stand-up comedy show. They also have Karaoke on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 10:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Located at 20800 N. John Wayne Pkwy in Maricopa.

520.568.5338 www.facebook.com/TheRoostAZ

November 18th Visit the Casa Grande Ruins Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Coolidge 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open daily, including the monument, museum exhibits, movie theater, monument bookstore, and picnic area. Free admission.

520.723.3172 www.nps.gov/cagr

The Showdown at Central Arizona Raceway Central Arizona Raceway Casa Grande 6:00 PM Three days of racing - Nov. 18, 19 & 20.

Racing starts 6:00 PM on Fri. 11/18 and Sat. 11/19 and at 4:00 PM on Sunday 11/20. Will include IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA Stock Cars, and IMCA Hobby Stocks. Front gate opens at 3:00 PM. Adults $20, Seniors/Military $15, and free admission for kids 11 & under.

Located at 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner Rd. in Casa Grande.

602.292.7607 www.facebook.com/CentralArizonaRaceway Wobble Before You Gobble Casa Grande Community Recreation Center 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Join the fun-filled 90-minute Zumba Dance Party that will have you burning off calories for your hard-earned Thanksgiving meal! All participants are encouraged to bring at least three nonperishable food items, as this event’s main goal is to raise as much food as possible for those in need during the holiday season. All food items will be donated to the Casa Grande Food Bank. Ages 13-15 must be accompanied by an adult.

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REWIND

ELOY

Submitted by the City of Eloy

Glow

Welcome to the most festive season of the year!

E

loy, in concert with the Eloy Chamber of Commerce, held the First Eloy Balloon Glow & Festival on Nov. 12, right in the heart of downtown. Hundreds of attendees enjoyed the beauty of fully inflated hot air balloons in the early evening and took advantage of the tethered rides, offering a bird’s-eye view of Eloy.

Also on hand were the area’s best food trucks offering a myriad of culinary delights from many cultures, craft booths and great music. If you were there, thank you, if you missed it, now is the time to put a reminder in your calendar for next November!

For more information on all Eloy has to offer, please check out the fall-spring Eloy activity guide. The guide is available in many locations around town or by visiting: www.eloychamber.com or www.eloyaz.gov/186/Community-Services

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Featuring

Pinal Now!

Are you hosting an event in Pinal County?

Submit your event Today!

To be included in our monthly Pinal NOW! calendar, submit information to

www.pinalnow.com/submit/

Now!

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

November 18th Canyon Sounds Performance Series: John O’Conor, Concert Pianist Gold Canyon United Methodist Church 7:00 PM First concert in the 2022-2023 Canyon Sounds series. See website for tickets to this concert and information on all concerts in the series. Concerts are held at the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church.

480.493.6731 www.goldcanyonarts.org Movie in the Park Kenilworth Sports Complex Coolidge 7:00 PM Located at 671 E. Coolidge Ave. in Coolidge. Starts at 7:00 PM. See Facebook page or website for movie details. www.coolidgeaz.com/parks Art Classes at the Divine Art Institute Divine Art Institute Casa Grande Visit the Divine Art Institute website to see the Nov./ Dec. art class lineup!

Located in Casa Grande. Workshops and classes that have 1 to 3 sessions are offered in the areas of drawing & painting. Open to artists of all ages and experience levels.

520.340.4162 www.divineartinstitute.com

November 19th Main Street Market Historic Downtown Casa Grande 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM The market is held in Historic Downtown Casa Grande every month.

Drop by the Main Street Alley for a small market consisting of vendors, crafting classes and entertainment.

It will also be held on Dec. 17. If you’re a vendor and would like to take part in the market, contact Holly at Casa Grande Mainstreet.

520.836.8744 www.cgmainstreet.org

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November 19th Robson Ranch Autumn Arts & Crafts Sale Robson Ranch Eloy 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Free admission and parking. 35 vendors with handmade treasures.

Will be held in the Hermosa ballroom at Robson Ranch, located at 5750 W. Robson Blvd. in Eloy.

541.671.0634

November 19th ComedySchools presents The Original Kings of Arizona Comedy Central Arizona College Pence Center Coolidge 7:00 PM Enjoy an adult evening out with a stand-up comedy show as we turn the Pence into a comedy club! Five headliners! One great night. Tickets available online.

520.477.7469 www.eventsatcac.com Karaoke with James G. Gallopin’ Goose Coolidge 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM The Gallopin’ Goose has karaoke every Wednesday with host James G. Check their Facebook page for the weekend DJ schedule. Located at 1980 S. Arizona Blvd. in Coolidge.

520.723.0300 www.facebook.com/gallopingoose Clue Who? An Original Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Radisson Hotel Casa Grande 7:00 PM There will be two performances at 3:00 PM and at 7:00 PM on Sat. 11/19. “Who killed Mary Periwinkle?” Come put your sleuthing skills to the test and see an original and hilarious murder mystery dinner theater play written and directed by Pamela Karpelenia. Join us for a night of live theatre with murder, secrets, mystery and intrigue! Tickets are $35 and includes a delicious meal!

Tickets available online.

520.450.3472 www.facebook.com/whodunitCG

Extreme Dwarfanators Wrestling Pinal Fairgrounds & Event Center Casa Grande 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Midget wrestling show. Will include Los Mini Enmascarados wrestlers from Mexico. Whether you’re looking for laughs or thrills, this show has it all. Midget or micro wrestlers are incredibly athletic and put on a great show that is sure to entertain. General admission $25, ringside $40. All-ages show.

520.723.7881 www.dwarfanators.com

November 20th Live Music at the Windmill Winery: Sean Lewis Windmill Winery Florence 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Sean Lewis plays from 12:00-4:00 PM in the Wine Tasting Room. Visit the Windmill Winery website for the Nov./Dec. live music schedule and hours. Located at 1140 W. Butte Ave. in Florence.

520.858.6050 www.thewindmillwinery.com Live Music at the River Bottom: Fred Cap Band River Bottom Bar & Grill Florence 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM The River Bottom Bar & Grill has 10 bands on their Nov. schedule. See their new website for the live music lineup. Located at 2501 N. Highway 79 in Florence.

520.868.3131 www.riverbottombar.com/events

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Continued

November 21st

November 23rd

All-Levels Yoga Class with Tiffany Thrive Academy Casa Grande 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Organized by Yoga Recovery & Healing Arts Project. Weekly yoga classes take place every Monday at Thrive Academy for Performing Arts in Casa Grande. See website for location details. $5 or $10 suggested donation per class. Bring a yoga mat. www.yogahealingartsproject.org

Virtual Career Expo Achieve Pinal Pinal County Local initiative that allows students and adults to explore career opportunities, with a focus on Pinal County. Content is delivered online and features career exploration interviews with Pinal County professionals who work in a wide variety of trades and professions. Discover what is required for careers you’re interested in. Includes information about college access and scholarships.

520.836.6868

November 22nd Live Music & Karaoke Tumbleweed Inn Eloy 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Tumbleweed Inn has karaoke on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 9:00 PM and live music on Friday and Saturday throughout the month. See their Facebook page for the current live music schedule. Located at 3802 W. Frontier St. in Eloy. Dinner reservations are recommended.

520.466.9972

www.facebook.com/tumbleweedinnaz

CAC Fall Band & Orchestra Concert Central Arizona College Pence Center Coolidge 7:00 PM Join the Central AZ Symphony and Concert Band in a fun-filled concert featuring traditional band and orchestra music. Free admission.

Register online. Additional CAC fall music events: CAC Rocktacular Fall 2022, CAC Student Recital Fall 2022, and the CAC Fall Handbells & Choir 2022. Concerts are held at the Pence Center on the CAC Coolidge Campus.

See website for event info and tickets.

520.477.7469 www.eventsatcac.com Fall 2022 CAC Performing Arts Events Central Arizona College Pence Center Coolidge 7:00 PM Nov. 22: CAC Fall Band & Orchestra Concert. Nov. 30: CAC Rocktacular Fall 2022, Dec. 1: CAC Student Recital Fall 2022, Dec. 10: CAC Fall Handbells & Choir 2022. Concerts are held at the Pence Center on the CAC Coolidge Campus. See website for event info and tickets. Open to the public.

520.477.7469 www.eventsatcac.com

November 26th

Fly-In Breakfast Casa Grande Municipal Airport 7:00 AM - 9:30 AM On the last Saturday of each month, the community is invited to enjoy breakfast with pilots and a great view of aircraft on our ramp at your local Casa Grande Airport. Breakfast hosted

by Pinal Lodge #30 and begins at 7:00 AM. $10 per plate for a full breakfast.

Enjoy the exhibits on display at the airport from the Casa Grande Art Association and The Museum of Casa Grande. www.achievepinal.com/career-expo.html 520.426.3616 www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar Art & Sip The Roost Sports Bar & Cafe Florence Farmers Market Maricopa McFarland State Historic Park 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Florence Paint and sip events every Wednesday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM in November at The Roost in Maricopa. The market is held on the porch Party starts at 7:00 PM! No experience at McFarland State Park in Historic necessary. Visit website for details Florence on the 2nd and 4th Saturday and to sign up. Contact Kaui Wilson at of each month. Sponsored by Florence KauiWilson.Art@gmail.com or on social Copper. The market features produce media: @KauiWilson. from local farmers, farm fresh eggs, 602.796.8194 meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee www.theartandsip.com & tea, seasonings, and many other locally made artisan products.

November 25th 520.868.9433 www.florenceazchamber.com 90th Florence Jr. Parada Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena Florence 2:00 PM November 26th The oldest Junior Rodeo in the 90th Jr. Parada Parade world takes place Nov. 25-27 over Downtown Florence the Thanksgiving weekend at the 10:00 AM Charles Whitlow Rodeo Grounds in The annual rodeo parade starts Florence. Visit the website for the at 10:00 AM along Downtown rodeo schedule. Event includes the Historic Main Street in Florence. rodeo, vendors, motocross stunt team, The parade celebrates the Town’s concert, camping, good times and western heritage and showcases more! Donations at the gate will be numerous riders and a variety accepted. of floats. It’s a holiday season 520.840.9154 tradition in Florence! www.florencejrparada.com www.florencejrparada.com/ Jazz Trio parade Paramount Theatre Casa Grande 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM The Paramount Theatre is located in downtown Casa Grande at 420 N. Florence St. $35 general admission, Tickets available online. Also offered on Friday, Dec. 16.

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Now!

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

Borderlands Produce Rescue (P.O.W.W.O.W.) San Carlos Park Coolidge 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM 70 pounds of rescued produce for a $15.00 donation. Location is 300 W. Central Ave. in Coolidge. www.borderlandsproducerescue. org/produce-on-wheels Concert in the Park - Neamen Lyles Experience Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Maricopa has a brand new Concert in the Park series! The City has partnered with Maricopa AZ Events to host monthly free concerts at Copper Sky Regional Park. The Neamen Lyles Experience features a nationally known smooth jazz artist.

520.568.9098 www.facebook.com/CityOfMaricopaAZ Learn to SkyDive & Advanced Training Skydive Arizona Eloy Learn to Skydive at the largest jump zone in the world! See website for additional ground school dates in Nov. and Dec. Skydive Arizona has upcoming events and courses for experienced skydivers, including AXIS B License training, a tandem instructor course, and a fun Swoop Du Jour event on Nov. 19.

520.466.3753 www.skydiveaz.com

November 29th Live Music: The Girls Next Door The Ranch House Grill - Robson Ranch Eloy - 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Enjoy dinner, drinks, and dancing to this all-women band. Country, rock, & classic favorites. The Ranch House Grill “Tack Room” at Robson Ranch, Eloy. Address: 5750 N. Robson Blvd. Contact: TheGirlsNextDoorAZ@gmail.com.

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November 26th Music Event for the 90th Florence Jr. Parada Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena Florence 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Grab your boots for a night of the top country tribute acts! Featuring the music of Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan and Eric Church. Beer garden, food and merch vendors on site. Gates open at 4:00 PM, music kicks off at 5:00 PM! Bring a lawn chair for comfort. NO carry-ins allowed.

Tickets available at https://ticketbud.com/ events/764e12e6-21af-11ed-8c78-42010a71701e.

520.840.9154 www.florencejrparada.com

November 29th

December 2nd

Activities for Seniors Dorothy Powell Senior Center Casa Grande The Dorothy Powell Senior Center provides residents the opportunity to experience recreational, cultural, and educational programming in a friendly atmosphere. It’s open to individuals 50 years of age or older. Activities include health and fitness, dance, pool, cards, walking club, bingo, art and more. The monthly activity calendar is posted on the City of Casa Grande website.

520.421.8760 www.casagrandeaz.gov/senior-citizen-services

Sierra Sound at the Pita Patio Grill Pita Patio Grill Coolidge 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM The Pita Patio Grill is located at 235 W. Coolidge Ave. in Coolidge. See their Facebook page for live music updates.

520.635.5576 www.facebook.com/coolidgerocks

December 1st Comedy Night & Karaoke The Roost Sports Bar & Cafe Maricopa The Roost has Comedy Night every Thursday from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Free admission to this stand-up comedy show. They also have Karaoke on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 10:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Located at 20800 N. John Wayne Pkwy in Maricopa.

520.568.5338 www.facebook.com/TheRoostAZ

City of Maricopa Tree Lighting Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Takes place at Copper Sky Regional Park, 44345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

520.568.9098

www.facebook.com/CityOfMaricopaAZ

December Art Classes & Workshops Casita Workshop Casa Grande Casita Workshop offers a variety of art classes each month. Learn how to create watercolor paintings, or explore working with clay, fiber, or glass. Visit the website to see what’s being offered in December. They also have a Fiber & Fabric Club that meets once a month. www.casitaworkshop.com

Check out www.pinalnow.com for a current calendar of events including updated listings.

HO L I D A Y 2022

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December 3rd Coolidge Airport Fly-In Coolidge Municipal Airport Coolidge 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM The City of Coolidge sponsors a fly-in on the first Saturday of every month from October to April. Breakfast is served by the Coolidge Lions Club in front of the main hangar. Pilots can call Airport Manager James Myers with any questions.

520.723.6075 www.coolidgeaz.com/flyin

December 3rd Casa Grande Electric Light Parade Casa Grande City Hall Casa Grande - 5:45 PM The City of Casa Grande invites the community to ring in the holiday season with the Annual Electric Light Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The Parade will begin at 5:45 p.m. with the Tree Lighting Ceremony held at City Hall at 6:00 p.m. The parade begins at Colorado St. & Florence Blvd. and proceeds west towards Florence Street, ending at Second Street.

520.421.8600 | www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar

Sip & Shop at the Windmill Winery Windmill Winery Florence 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Get your holiday shopping done while you sip on your favorite wine! Local vendors and artisans welcome! A food truck and live music will add to the holiday shopping vibe!

520.868.5200 www.thewindmillwinery.com Merry Copa Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM The Merry Copa Holiday Festival takes place at Copper Sky. This is an annual holiday celebration for the entire family. Vendors, artisans, crafters, and nonprofits from across the city bring all the flavors of the season to bear in this signature event. It’s a unique stop for Santa as snow and sled descend on the Arizona desert! See the City of Maricopa Facebook page for event and parking details.

520.568.9098 www.maricopa-az.gov/events Pictures With Santa Casa Grande Public Library (Main Library) Casa Grande 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Located at 449 N. Drylake Street in Casa Grande. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than getting your picture with Santa! Pictures with Santa will be available prior to the start of the Electric Light Parade. Each family will receive a complimentary photo with Santa. No registration required.

520.421.8600 www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar/ pictures-with-santa/

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December 3rd

December 4th

2nd Annual Luminaria Hike Besich Park Town of Superior 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Join the Legends of Superior Trail for our second annual Luminaria Hike on the Queen Creek Canyon segment of the LOST. This event is free - and we will be announcing the winners of our 2022 LOST Raffle. Join us before or after your hike for free cookies, hot chocolate and entertainment. Meet at Besich Park. www.facebook.com/ events/617268139993490

The Four Freshmen Christmas Central Arizona College Pence Center Coolidge 3:00 PM Get in the Christmas spirit with The Four Freshmen! Takes place at the Pence Center on the Coolidge campus of Central Arizona College. Tickets are $23-$28 and available online.

520.477.7469 www.eventsatcac.com

December 4th December Bridal Open House Windmill Winery Florence 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM Bridal open houses give couples the best opportunity to tour this popular wedding venue and meet with staff and vendors. See website for registration details.

480.313.2303 www.thewindmillwinery.com

December 5th Events at Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center Maricopa The Entertainment Center offers movies, bowling, laser tag, an arcade, parties & events, and more. See the Ak-Chin Circle website and Facebook page for this month’s featured events.

520.568.3456 www.ak-chincircle.com

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EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

December 5th

December 8th

December 9th

Casita Fiber & Fabric Club Casita Workshop Casa Grande 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Held on the first Monday of the month. $5 session fee. Meet others with an interest in creating with fabric, yarn, thread or wool - anything with fiber.

Great for people who sew, quilt, spin, weave, crochet, knit, embroider, rug hook, or stitch. If you have a project you are currently working on, you can work on it during club time — or just come and hang out! Be sure to confirm this event on the website and RSVP to casitaworkshop@gmail.com if you plan to attend. www.casitaworkshop.com

Food Box Distribution Day for Seniors Hope International Food Pantry Coolidge 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Senior food box distribution takes place on the second Thursday of each month. Located at 1280 N. Arizona Blvd. in Coolidge. For seniors only, age 60 and up. Please bring your ID. Volunteers are welcome. Check website for other food distribution days in October.

520.233.6699

Miracle on Main Street & Light Parade Besich Park Town of Superior 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM Join us for the 2022 Miracle on Main Street Light Parade and holiday events. It will include entertainment, free train rides, and visits with Santa after the parade. Presented by the Superior Optimist Club. See Facebook page for information on participating in the parade.

520.689.0200 www.facebook.com/ events/3885398864916993

All-Levels Yoga Class with Tiffany Thrive Academy Casa Grande 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Organized by Yoga Recovery & Healing Arts Project. Weekly yoga classes take place every Monday at Thrive Academy for Performing Arts in Casa Grande. See website for location details. $5 or $10 suggested donation per class. Bring a yoga mat. www.yogahealingartsproject.org

December 6th Monthly Meeting - DAV 36 (Disabled American Veterans) DAV Chapter 36 Pinal County Coolidge 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM DAV is a national nonprofit charity that provides a lifetime of support for veterans of all generations and their families, helping more than 1 million veterans in positive, life-changing ways each year nationally. Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Unit 36 serves veterans in Pinal County.

Located at 320 E. Central Ave. in Coolidge. A weekly Koffee Klatch is also held on Tuesdays from 7:00-10:00 AM. 520.494.3283 www.dav36.org

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www.hopeinternationalfoodpantry.org

Live Music: The Girls Next Door Tumbleweed Inn Eloy 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Enjoy dinner, drinks, and dancing to this all-women band. Country, rock, and classic favorites. See the Tumbleweed Inn’s Facebook page for more info. Location is 3802 W. Frontier St., Eloy. Reservations recommended. Will also appear on Jan. 19.

520.466.9972

www.facebook.com/tumbleweedinnaz

Pickleball Tournament (Dec. 8-10) Dave White Park Casa Grande Calling all pickleball players! Register to play at our first annual pickleball tournament and help us raise funds to benefit the AARP Experience Corps 3rd grade reading program in Pinal County. Takes place Dec. 8-10 at Dave White Park in Casa Grande. Registration is $60. Visit https://bit.ly/3LPB2je for tournament info and registration.

480.544.5576 www.pickleballbrackets.com

Concert in the Park & Downtown After Dark Casa Grande Neon Sign Park 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Concerts are held in conjunction with Casa Grande Mainstreet’s Downtown After Dark Series, offering special promotions and activities by downtown merchants from 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Bring your own chair to enjoy free live entertainment from 6:00 - 7:30 PM. 520.421.8677 www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar/ Tracy Lawrence in Concert Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino Maricopa 8:00 PM Tracy Lawrence with special guest Randy Rogers Band. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com. www.caesars.com/harrahs-akchin/shows/calendar

December 9th Christmas in the Park & Light Parade San Carlos Park - Coolidge 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Christmas Light Parade begins at 7:00 PM. The Christmas in the Park event Includes arts & crafts, music, vendors, booths, and more! Pictures with Santa will be available from 4:00-6:30 PM for $2. Takes place in San Carlos Park, 300 W. Central Ave. in Coolidge.

520.723.4551 www.coolidgeaz.com/parks

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Continued

December 10th Florence Farmers Market McFarland State Historic Park Florence 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM The market is held on the porch at McFarland State Park in Historic Florence on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Sponsored by Florence Copper. The market features produce from local farmers, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, seasonings, and many other locally made artisan products.

520.868.9433 www.florenceazchamber.com Christmas in Eloy Main Street Park Eloy 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM Special holiday event. See Facebook page for event details. www.eloyaz.gov Emergency Preparedness Expo & Gun Show Pinal Fairgrounds & Event Center Casa Grande 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Two day show event takes place on Sat. 12/10 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sun. 12/11 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Free admission to the Get Prepped Expo, which features emergency preparedness and self-sufficiency vendors.

Will include speakers and demonstrations. The gun show is $15 for 2-day admission, with discounts for seniors and Veterans, and free for kids 12 and under.

520.723.7881 www.pinalfairgrounds.com/get-prepped-expo Open Mic Night - Casa Grande BlackBox Foundation Theatre Casa Grande 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Monthly all-ages open mic event is open to all creative artists, including singers/songwriters, spoken word, poetry, dance, and comedy. Doors open for sign-up at 5:30 PM. Open mic starts at 6:00 PM, with a maximum of 10 minutes for each performer. Microphones and sound system provided. $5-$10 suggested donation. Presented by the Yoga Recovery & Healing Arts Project and the BlackBox Foundation.

520.532.2337

El Pima Mercado y Carniceria

Fresh

Marinated Meats - Seafood Carnitas - Chicharrones - Candies Piñatas & More!

FREE Homemade Med. Salsa

with any $5 meat purchase

Expires 12/31/22. Limit One Coupon Per Customer Per Day. GRANDE LIVING

MON - FRI 8AM-8PM

(520) 426-9332

Todo tipo de carne para comida preparada.

116 N. Casa Grande Ave. | Casa Grande, AZ

WATER Ice Cream

Ice Cream

ICE

www.yogahealingartsproject.org/open-mic

December 11th Yoga in the Lavender Field Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm Oracle 3:00 PM Enjoy a unique experience ... yoga in the lavender field!

Imagine doing yoga between rows of lavender plants!

All levels of experience welcome. Flow through a Vinyasa Sequence awakening and energizing your body. Refreshment will follow the yoga session. Cost $30. Registration available on the website.

520.444.4453 www.lifeundertheoakslavenderfarm.com

1/14/23

Family Owned and Operated

20928 N John Wayne Pkwy Maricopa, AZ 85139 520-568-4740 - Find us on FB!

continued on page 94 W W W . G R A ND E - L I V I NG.C O M

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EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

December 12th

December 15th

December 17th

Museum & Visitor Center McFarland State Historic Park Florence The museum and the visitor center are open Mon. through Sat., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Oct. through Apr. Park entrance fee is $5 and free for ages 18 and under.

Visit the AZ State Parks website to plan your visit.

520.868.5216 www.azstateparks.com/mcfarland

Copa Seniors Meeting Maricopa Community Center Maricopa 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM Copa Seniors meet on the third Thursday of the month. Come learn about new events and up to date information for your community, Bring your questions as well! Great time to meet new people and different senior groups.

520.316.6842 www.maricopa-az.gov

Concert in the Park - Soul Persuasion Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Maricopa has a brand new Concert in the Park series! The City has partnered with Maricopa AZ Events to host monthly free concerts at Copper Sky Regional Park. Soul Persuasion is a Latin band and will perform from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. 520.568.9098

December 17th

Live Music at San Tan Flat: Hwy 260 Band San Tan Flat Queen Creek 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM San Tan Flat has live music from Wed. through Sun. every week. Located at 6185 W. Hunt Highway in Queen Creek.

Visit the events calendar page on their website for the Dec. music lineup.

480.882.2995 www.santanflat.com

Holiday Homes on Parade (Dec. 12-18) City of Maricopa Participating residents and businesses create festive displays for the holiday decorating contest. Registration is free.

Check the City of Maricopa website and Facebook page for updates. There are prizes for the best entries.

520.316.6963 www.facebook.com/CityOfMaricopaAZ

December 12th Deck the House Light Tour City of Casa Grande Casa Grande Residents are invited to deck their houses or create a display for viewing from Dec. 12 to Dec. 31. The City of Casa Grande will create a map of all the residential houses for people to view and vote on their favorite displays. Residents must register by Thursday, Dec. 1 to participate in the Deck the House Light Tour and be eligible for awards. Since the public is coming to you, there are endless opportunities for unique and creative light displays. Have your lights on as soon as it’s dark!

520.421.8600 www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar

Main Street Market Historic Downtown Casa Grande 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM The market is held in Historic Downtown Casa Grande every month.

Drop by the Main Street Alley for a small market consisting of vendors, crafting classes, and entertainment. If you’re a vendor and would like to take part in the market, contact Holly at Casa Grande Mainstreet.

520.836.8744 www.cgmainstreet.org Ernest Talks: How the Judge’s Brother Got Away With Murder McFarland State Historic Park Florence 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM On the evening of Friday, June 24, 1892, W. Wood Porter was riding his bicycle on Main Street in Florence when he was shot and killed by a drunken and enraged Frank Kibbey. Kibbey was the brother of a territorial Supreme Court Justice, which helped transform a seemingly straightforward case into a sensational trial. Dr. Hietter, who is currently a professor of history at Mesa Community College, will discuss the case and the way the behavior of those involved reflected Victorian-era attitudes about gender roles and behavior.

520.868.5216 www.azstateparks.com/mcfarland

Check out www.pinalnow.com for a current calendar of events including updated listings.

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www.facebook.com/CityOfMaricopaAZ

December 18th Freeform Movement & Dance Party Studio of Dance Casa Grande 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Monthly event. Enjoy freeform creative movement sessions where no experience or skills are needed to enjoy the benefits of dance. Dance in a safe space with an inspiring musical playlist! Shake, groove, let out stress and have fun. Family event for ages 10+. $5 or $10 suggested donation per person but not mandatory. Held at the Studio of Dance, 395 N. Sacaton St. in Casa Grande. Refreshments provided. www.yogahealingartsproject.org

December 20th Live Music: The Girls Next Door The Ranch House Grill - Robson Ranch Eloy 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Enjoy dinner, drinks, and dancing to this all-women band. Country, rock, & classic favorites. The Ranch House Grill “Tack Room” at Robson Ranch, Eloy.

Address: 5750 N. Robson Blvd. Contact: TheGirlsNextDoorAZ@gmail.com.

520.426.3331

www.facebook.com/tumbleweedinnaz

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December 21st

December 31st

Pinal County Board of Supervisors Meeting Pinal County Administrative Complex Florence 9:30 AM Board meetings are broadcast live and the public may access the meeting on the BOS Videos page on the Pinal County website. Board agendas are available at https://pinal.novusagenda.com/agendapublic. Meetings are held in the 1891 Historic Courthouse, 135 N. Pinal St. in Florence. Anyone wishing to address the board may do so during the “Call to Public” at 9:30 a.m. during regular session board meetings.

520.866.6068 www.pinalcountyaz.gov/bos/Pages/ Home.aspx

Fly-In Breakfast Casa Grande Municipal Airport 7:00 AM - 9:30 AM On the last Saturday of each month, the community is invited to enjoy breakfast with pilots and a great view of aircraft on our ramp at your local Casa Grande Airport. Breakfast hosted

by Pinal Lodge #30 and begins at 7:00 AM. $10 per plate for a full breakfast.

Enjoy the exhibits on display at the airport from the Casa Grande Art Association and The Museum of Casa Grande.

520.426.3616 www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar

Karaoke with James G. Gallopin’ Goose Coolidge 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM The Gallopin’ Goose has karaoke every Wednesday with host James G. Check their Facebook page for the weekend DJ schedule. Located at 1980 S. Arizona Blvd. in Coolidge.

520.723.0300 www.facebook.com/gallopingoose

December 21st Florence Farmers Market McFarland State Historic Park Florence 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM The market is held on the porch at McFarland State Park in Historic Florence on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month.

Sponsored by Florence Copper.

The market features produce from local farmers, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, seasonings, and many other locally made artisan products.

520.868.9433 www.florenceazchamber.com

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January 13th Copa Glow Night Market Copper Sky Regional Park Maricopa 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Check the City of Maricopa Facebook page or www.copanightmarket.com for event details.

It will be held at Copper Sky Regional Park.

520.568.9098 www.facebook.com/CityOfMaricopaAZ

January 5th Buddy, Ritchie and the Big Bopper Central Arizona College Pence Center Coolidge 7:00 PM Go back in time with this feel-good tribute to three of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest legends! Tickets are $23-$28 and available online. Takes place at the Pence Center on the Coolidge campus of Central Arizona College. Open to the public.

520.477.7469 www.eventsatcac.com

January 13th Canyon Sounds Performance Series: The Folk Legacy Trio Gold Canyon United Methodist Church Gold Canyon 7:00 PM The Folk Legacy Trio performs songs from the folk era of the ‘50s through mid-’70s. See website for tickets to this concert and information on all concerts in the series. Concerts are held at the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church.

480.493.6731 www.goldcanyonarts.org

January 21st Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino Maricopa 8:00 PM Tickets available at www.ticketmaster. com. Doors open 7:00 PM. Show begins at 8:00 PM. Theresa Caputo stars in the TLC show Long Island Medium. She has been a practicing medium for over 20 years. www.caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin/ shows/calendar

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Dear Community

What I Love about My Community Community to me is a group of people who care about one another, creating a system of love and support.

I live in Casa Grande because my husband, who was born in Florence and grew up in Stanfield, wanted to come back home to his family and community. Over the past 33 years, starting and selling a business, my son’s special needs and the loss of my husband, I am so grateful this is my community.

I’m thankful for the tribe my son has amassed here. I love running into his teachers (who were school friends of my husband’s) in the grocery store. I love that I can drop him off at bowling and everyone watches out for him.

I love how our business and customers brought out the best of him with social interaction. I love how our customers stay connected with him. I love when people reach out to him for outings, golfing, sports events; too many things to mention.

I love watching our community grow. I love to walk around the gym at the local rec center and watch the kids playing basketball. I love playing pickleball at Dave White and making friends.

I love that the community is enrichening all lives by adding needed amenities such as the splash pad and biking lanes. I love watching our local CAC baseball team. I love our weather 10 months of the year. I love the smell of cow manure in the morning. I love the good that comes out of CG Chat. I love to drive by agricultural fields on my way to the mall.

As a small business owner (recently retired), I cannot thank the community enough for the support and love shown me. Moving from Los Angeles to open McMashers, I did not want to “impose” on others asking for help for businessrelated issues but found everyone helpful and encouraging.

Watching and being part of the growth of homegrown charity groups, such as Pinal 40, and national charity groups, such as Special Olympics, has been one of the greatest parts of being a business owner, as well as the lifelong friendships I have made.

My “family” has grown from the day I moved to this community with some of the most amazing, wonderful and caring people.

Sincerely,

Reggie McSwain Former owner, McMashers Sports Bar and Grill

Travel is Back!

We Are Ready TO HELP YOU BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP!

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Wuertz Gourd Farm Casa Grande What is the brief history of the Wuertz family and gourds?

The Wuertz family moved and started farming in the area in 1929. Waylon Wuertz is a fourth-generation farmer and started growing gourds right after college.

He met his wife Leah at a gourd patch and together they have grown the business into what it is today.

What is the Gourd Festival?

The Wuertz Farm Gourd Festival is a three-day event full of gourd vendors from near and far selling their gourd art and crafts, gourd classes, a judged gourd art competition hosted by the AZGS (Arizona Gourd Society), nonstop entertainment, food vendors and thousands of dried gourds for sale.

What is there to do for non-artists?

You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy this festival.

Come admire, purchase and even get inspired to try your hand at the fun.

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Is there food?

Yes, several food vendors will be there.

Is there entertainment?

Nonstop music by various groups as well as Polynesian dancers, Gourd Washington and “Flash” Gourden.

When is it and what does it cost?

Wuertz Farm Gourd Festival is Feb. 3, 4 and 5, 2023 at the Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center, 512 11 Mile Corner, Casa Grande. Friday and Saturday it will run 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday the hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Admission is $12 for adults; kids 12 and younger are free.

Visit Wuertz Gourd Farm at www.wuertzfarm.com.

HO L I D A Y 2022

New Year New Home!

Let Coldwell Banker ROX Realty help you spend 2023 in your new home!

520.423.8250 | roxsells.com 1919 N Trekell Rd., Ste. A Casa Grande, AZ 85122 ©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

PRODUCT ALERT New Heating and Air Conditioning Regulations Are Coming in 2023! As a result, this may be the time to replace your HVAC system… here’s why: In an ongoing effort to minimize the impact of HVAC refrigerants on global warming, new efficiency standards will take effect in 2023 which includes an increase in minimum efficiency ratings.

Energy efficiency for air conditioners is measured by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER, the more efficient the HVAC unit.

Things to consider before the upcoming deadline!

The upcoming 2023 regulations offer homeowners the opportunity to consider their options as energy efficiency regulations continue to rise.

Now is the time to make the switch and upgrade to a higher efficiency machine. Reasons to consider making the upgrade today include:

3. Upgrading now means minimal wait for a new equipment and installation. Many people may wait to make a change until after the deadline which will increase the demand and cause potential shortages and increased pricing.

Trust Felix Appliance Heating & Air to help you make the right decision about your air conditioning and heating equipment. It’s important to realize the longer you wait to replace your existing system, the more costly it will be. With the rebates and incentives available now, there is has never been a better time to replace your home comfort system. Call us today and we will be happy to send one of our experienced Comfort Advisors to your home for a FREE Home Comfort Survey so that you can make a great decision for you and your family.

1. Maintaining an older system will become increasingly more expensive. Not only are you paying more per month on your energy bill, but your yearly maintenance will increase as well.

The price of refrigerant is set to rise yet again, even though its increased over 300% in the past five years alone.

2. Energy saving equipment means you’ll save money every month.

While there is a cost to upgrade your current HVAC system, your monthly energy bills will decrease because the machine operates at optimal efficiency.

FelixApplianceRepair.net | 520.442.3120 ROC#322603 • HVAC#330229 • Copyright 2022 CEO Warrior. All Rights Reserved