Grande LIVING Fall 2023

Robin Stephens-Whitehead

JOIN A WINNING TEAM

Karen

The Grande Innovation Academy is committed to our scholars’ potential and achieving their academic ambitions. Our unique interactive learning environment offers a FabLab, SMALLab, electives, and a differentiated learning program for gifted scholars. For scholars needing flexibility, our Path to Potential online 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.

Melissa Altamirano

20 23 Photo Contest

From the Editor: Photos, especially cover photos, are an ongoing challenge for any magazine. There are two key points in making the final selection. The first is to ask, “Is the image compelling enough for someone to pick up the magazine?” And then the important question for production, “Is the image the resolution quality needed for print, and will it work with the portrait aspect of the magazine layout?"

We received many amazing photos, making the final selection extremely difficult! Not all images worked for our production needs. You can find all of the photos in our 2023 Photography Contest –Grande LIVING magazine Facebook album and many, including our People’s Choice winners, can be found in this issue. We hope you enjoy them!

www.facebook.com/grandelivingmagazine

Robin Stephens-Whitehead Casa Grande Ruins as a monsoon storm came on.

ADVERTISER INDEX

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Elaine M. Earle, CPA

SALES & MARKETING

Julie Turetzky

Director of Public Relations

John McGuire

Business Development Manager

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

Shannon Price

Art Director - Graphic Designer

Keith Dobie

Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Conrad

Digital Media Representative

EDITORIAL

Christia Gibbons Senior Editor

Blake Herzog Staff Writer

OPERATIONS

Bea Lueck

Vice President of Operations

Jenna Leatherman Accounts Receivable

COMMENTS AND IDEAS: editor@roxco.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@roxco.com

www.grande-living.com/copies

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: info@roxco.com www.grande-living.com/advertise

CORPORATE OFFICE:

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

Elaine M. Earle, CPA

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Bea Lueck

Grande LIVING is published by Raxx Direct Marketing. Editorial content is provided by affiliates of Raxx Direct Marketing, community members and local organizations.

© 2023. 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.

Hello and welcome to our Fall issue where you will find our 2023 Photo Contest Winners! Catch the images on our four(!) covers and inside our pages to see lots of sunsets, mountains, cactuses, flowers, wildlife, agricultural fields, historic homes and artifacts and many more scenes that convey the beauty and diversity of our Pinal County landscape.

I always love seeing our area in new ways through the eyes of our talented readers who take photos.

The entries may well inspire you to explore new corners of our desert and make new discoveries about its land and people, especially after our superheated summer. We are thrilled to be able to be a part of that!

This issue has much more to offer, too, with features from regular contributors including Donna McBride, who notes the contributions to the juvenile justice system made by the Pinal County Community Advisory Board. Two share tips on keeping pets healthy: Tiffanie Grady-Gillespie writes about getting your dog (and yourself) on a

good fitness regimen and Gigi McWhirter shares a meat-and-vegetable recipe that can be mixed into your dog’s store-bought diet.

You’ll find articles by Casa Grande Mayor Craig McFarland and Central Arizona College, and we also have a few stories with tips on making your home a bit more comfortable, including adding touches of “micro luxury” to rooms and the proper seasonal use of ceiling fans.

And don’t miss our ROX Interview with my good friend and ROX Vice President of Operations Bea Lueck, a longtime Maricopa resident who’s been with our parent company for more than a dozen years and launched this magazine for us, along with several other publications.

The community news of the Pinal County Press and local events of Pinal NOW! also are here as you learn more about our area and start to plan your autumnal festivities.

And who else can’t believe how fast the holiday season is coming up? We’ll have more news and ideas for you in our upcoming Holiday issue!

A Picture-Perfect Fall Elaine Earle

Elaine Earle Publisher, Grande LIVING magazine

VOICES of t he 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

Donna McBride Councilwoman, City of Casa Grande

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

Gigi McWhirter Resident Animal Whisperer

Tori Ward Travel Agent, ROX Travel

Craig McFarland Mayor, City of Casa Grande

T he P inal Coun T y Press

CITY | CASA GRANDE | COOLIDGE | ELOY | FLORENCE | MARICOPA

Nikola Cuts Jobs, Wins Grant as it Launches Hydrogen Truck

Pinal ‘Pothole Tax’ Vote Expected Next Year

Nikola Corporation began taking orders in July for its Coolidge-produced hydrogen fuel-cell semi-truck after cutting jobs and winning a major grant the preceding quarter.

The Tre FCEV is the Phoenixbased company’s first hydrogen cell-fueled vehicle to reach the open market, its stated goal since it was founded in 2014. Nikola began producing its electriconly Tre BEV trucks last year, and announced in July it had made 271 wholesale, retail and production BEV vehicles during the first two quarters of 2023.

In June, Nikola announced it was refocusing its efforts on the North American market and laying off about 270 employees to reduce spending. This included 120 workers at the Phoenix and Coolidge sites and 150 who had

been supporting its European market activities, leaving about 900 on its payroll. “Transition assistance” is being offered to those affected.

In other news, Nikola and the California Department of Transportation were awarded a $41.9 million grant to build six heavy-duty hydrogen refueling stations across the southern part of the state by the California Transportation Commission. Also this summer, the company sold its Phoenix Hydrogen Hub project in Buckeye to Fortescue Future Industries to finance its development as a partnership.

It also reached an agreement with BayoTech Inc. to sell 50 hydrogen-fueled trucks and purchase hydrogen from its supply at low-carbon hubs.

Another election year and another transportation-related sales tax vote loom for Pinal County in 2024. Officials want residents to start thinking about it as they drive over some of the area’s rough roads, whether they’re paved roads that need repairs or unpaved roads that should be paved.

The county’s Transportation Improvement and Maintenance Program is funded by a half-cent sales tax sometimes known as the “pothole tax,” approved by voters in 1986 and 2005. It pays for paving, pavement preservation, dust control and safety improvements on roads in cities and towns along with unincorporated areas.

Projects are prioritized and scheduled by a transportation advisory committee and residents are encouraged to submit improvement requests for consideration at www.pinal.gov/848/ProjectRequest-Form.

The tax, which the county says raises $10 million to $15 million annually for work on existing roads, is due to expire in 2026. A measure to extend it another 20 years is expected to be on the November 2024 ballot. This is a different levy than that for Proposition 469, which would have collected another half-cent sales tax to build and expand major roads and highways. It was rejected by county voters in November 2022.

The county’s other major funding sources for road maintenance and repair are state-shared revenue from the Highway Users Revenue Fund and vehicle license taxes.

ARIZONA

Nikola Tre FCEV 2

Stories by Blake Herzog

Maricopa Marks 20th Anniversary with Music Festival

The City of Maricopa is holding a three-day music festival Oct. 13 to Oct. 15 to celebrate the 20 years since incorporation in 2003.

The Wild West Music Fest will be held at Copper Sky Park the lineup includes hip-hop artists Nelly and Flo Rida and country singers Deana Carter and Filmore.

The festival is being heralded by Mayor Nancy Smith as a “new signature event that will bring our community together to mark an exciting chapter in our City’s history.”

The festival will feature national and local music acts, food trucks, vendors and interactive attractions in a familyfriendly setting to celebrate the area’s history, going back to its days as a

Recycling Program Moves to CG Middle School

After 14 years the recycling program at Casa Grande’s Mesquite Elementary School has followed its founder Rick Wilson to his new teaching job at Casa Grande Middle School. The new site is at the rear of the campus, 1501 N. Center Ave. — turn south onto Center from Cottonwood Lane; follow the Casa Grande Recycles sign.

It’s been the community’s primary avenue for recycling No. 1 plastic containers,

aluminum and tin and metal cans since the City of Casa Grande suspended its curbside recycling program in 2019 due to its cost. Since, it’s garnered statewide and national attention for collecting tens of thousands of pounds of waste per year.

Wilson said the program collected about 30,000 pounds of recyclables last school year, which were sold and $11,000 in proceeds donated to Casa Grande Food Bank, Seeds of

stagecoach stop in the 1850s through Stagecoach Days, a local celebration hosted by the Rotary beginning in 1959 and later held by the City every October until 2016.

The festival also offers sponsorship opportunities for companies interested in generating exposure for their business while supporting the local community.

Joining the City in organizing the event is Steve LeVine Entertainment and Public Relations, producer of Chandler’s Ostrich Festival, Scottsdale Fashion Week, Bases and Brews Music Fest in Surprise and other public events.

For updates and more information visit www.wwmfest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Hope, Laundry Love, Valley Humane Society and Pinal County Animal Control.

“The first nine years I did everything on my own,” Wilson said. “Now that our numbers are this big, and growing, I need the help of volunteers to keep the program running. Their sacrifice of rummaging

through everything that was dropped off, to sort the recycling, is amazing but to do it on incredibly hot days is beyond amazing. This group is very dedicated to our program, and I think the world of them!” For more information, see the Casa Grande Recycles Facebook page.

BUSY BEA LUECK

is the Backbone of ROX Group

by Blake Herzog

Bea Lueck has had a huge hand in shaping ROX Media and its parent company ROX Group over the past 13 years. As vice president of operations she oversees many of the behind the-scenes details in ROX Group’s various companies, which also include ventures in residential and commercial real estate, a travel agency and a portable sanitation service.

Bea is the Designated Broker for Coldwell Banker ROX Realty and has won the Coldwell Banker International Presidential Circle Award for sales associates, placing her in the top 6% of agents globally.

In addition, she has more than 30 years of experience in multiple advertising media, including print, direct mail, television and web. She was the founding editor-in-chief of CG|ROX Magazine in 2012, which was rebranded as Grande LIVING in 2022, and launched numerous other publications in the Pinal and Yavapai county markets, which together have won several awards.

Bea has lived in Maricopa for more than 40 years, raising her family with her husband, Rick, and witnessing its transformation from a rural burg into a burgeoning city.

Bea Lueck

Grande LIVING: Tell us a little bit about where you were born and raised and your family life growing up.

Bea Lueck: I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, specifically in East Northport and then Northport and lastly Central Islip. I have two younger brothers and my grandmother always lived with us as far back as I remember. Our family always joked we summered in the Hamptons every year — except back then, there was a state-operated campground. Montauk Point was our playground for many summers.

Grande LIVING: Where else did you live before coming to Arizona?

Bea Lueck: We left New York when I was 13, briefly moving to Phoenix and then a few months later to a small town called Eustis in central Florida. I had a couple of jobs during high school. One was working helping to set up a plant nursery called Better Plant Enterprises, and then in my senior year, McDonalds.

Grande LIVING: What brought you out here?

Bea Lueck: My mom moved our family from Florida back to Arizona the summer of my junior year. I stayed in Florida with a friend’s family and moved to Arizona after I graduated. She had lived in Arizona with my dad, her first husband, in the mid-‘60s, and she always remembered it fondly and decided, “I’m going to move back to Arizona.” She remarried after she moved here.

Grande LIVING: How long did it take before it started feeling like home?

Bea Lueck: My mom lived in Maricopa, right behind the

original high school. It was a very small town then and it was home immediately. I went to work at Associated Grocers in Phoenix and that’s where I met my husband Rick. We just celebrated our 40th anniversary. We have two children, Jonathan and Christina. We are fortunate both live in Casa Grande. This means we get to see our grandchildren, Zoe (10) and Austin (5), frequently.

Funny story that will make you think, huh ... Technically, I'm married to my stepbrother. Rick and I were married in 1983. My divorced mother and his widowed father were always invited to every family event. They got married a few years after us. The jokes are endless. I'm mother to my niece and nephew. My mother-in-law is a pain but my mother is an angel. It's a great conversation starter.

Grande LIVING: What was your first job?

Bea Lueck: My very first job was in New York when I was 13. I worked as a telephone solicitor selling carpet cleaning services. It taught me how to accept rejection and make the next call!

Over the years I’ve had a few “odd” jobs such as egg collection at an egg farm (chicken lice are miserable) or working as a flagger for a crop duster (yes, you are the target).

Grande LIVING: How many jobs have you had since?

Bea Lueck: Not many since I was an adult. I change roles within the company but don’t change companies.

Grande LIVING: How long did you work at the local TV station?

Bea Lueck: That was KCAB — Central Arizona Broadcasting. I was with them from Day One in 1999 to 2012 when we officially went off the air.

Grande LIVING: What did you learn most from your time there?

Bea Lueck: I did a bit of everything along the way. I was hired to run the sales department. I taught myself how to edit and run the broadcast equipment. It was very exciting, the people I got to meet over the years.

Grande LIVING: How did you first meet Rock Earle, chairman of ROX Group, and then Elaine Earle, ROX Group CEO and publisher of Grande LIVING?

Bea Lueck: I first met Rock in the ‘80s. He was working on developing what is now the AkChin Regional Airport back when it was known as Phoenix Regional Airport. He was selling the parcels

Bea Lueck and her husband Rick

The Interview

to various industrial users. I live nearby and would be included in the meetings. Sometimes we were in agreement and sometimes not so much. We reconnected when Brett Eisele from KCAB talked Rock into hosting a travel TV show. Rock taught himself how to edit and did very well!

On December 23rd, 2009, when things were winding down at the TV station, Rock, Brett and their significant others were out with Rick and me looking at Christmas lights. I needed to find a new job soon; due to the recession the station could no longer afford to pay my salary.

Rock told me I needed to get my real estate license and come work for him. I asked, “Ummm, really? Doesn’t the real estate market suck right now??” Rock told me it won’t always be bad. I thought about it for 15 seconds and decided to get my real estate license. I got my license in February of 2010 and have been with Rock since then. Linda Pixler was the broker

at ROX Real Estate then; I always appreciated her attention to detail, and I thank her for training me to be the broker I am today.

I met Elaine when Rock hired her to be a part-time accountant at ROX. A few months later in 2013 they got married. Rock calls us Thelma and Louise. I’m never sure who is who. I think it changes according to the day and situation.

Grande LIVING: How many hats have you worn at ROX Group over the years?

Bea Lueck: It is never a dull moment. Let’s see … real estate agent and now designated broker, advertising account manager, general manager of (pick a company), associate publisher, insurance agent (I had my license but never actually sold a single policy), construction project manager, operations manager and currently vice president of operations.

You can throw in a few odd jobs

along the way like the day Rock and I were elbow deep in fixing the leak in the men’s bathroom urinal. Clean water was spraying everywhere and we're in there with our wrenches replacing the valve. Good times!

As VP of operations I have my hands in the real estate businesses, plural, and we’ve got some exciting things coming up as we work to grow that side of the business. And of course there are the magazines, and I’m very heavily involved in the Rent A Can business. I’m handling all of the routing and oversee different elements of things. I'm very thankful for the various company teams who make my job so much easier.

I love working here for so many reasons, but the diversity and dayto-day challenges, opportunities, the oddness of what you’re doing from day to day, it’s a constant beehive of activity. You never know what’s going to transpire that day, but it’s never boring.

Bea with Zoe and Austin, 2021

Bea Lueck and her grandson Austin

It’s crazy from one day to the next. “Well, what are you working on today?” “Well, I’m planning on doing this,” and then you walk in and, “OK, I’m not even thinking of doing that today. That’ll be another day.”

Grande LIVING: What do you like to do in your spare time?

Bea Lueck: I love spending time with my two grandchildren. I still have the paint on the garage floor from when we were painting pictures. My current hobby revolves around my garden. I tend to go a bit overboard on everything and gardening is no different.

I just finished the shell on my greenhouse. The inner building is just over 750 square feet with the beginnings of an orchard outside. The roof and some plumbing will be done this fall or winter when it isn’t blazing hot outside.

I started gardening on a smallscale, and then it grew and grew and grew, and just a wide variety of things. I’ve been keeping everything alive despite rabbits and rodents and birds eating things and the heat attempting to kill what wasn't eaten. I have a plethora of zucchini to harvest each day. Maybe next year I will plant a few less. The watermelon vines are taking over and spreading beyond their bed to adjacent beds.

Someone joked that, “Oh, everything you grow just looks so healthy.” It’s like, “No. No, not really. There are dead things out there. I just don’t post photos of the dead things regularly.”

Then I have an ongoing hate, hate relationship with ants and getting bit. One will crawl up my leg and I inevitably get bit in places that require me to drop my pants in the

front yard. It's a good thing I live in a rural area with minimal traffic going past!

We have no pets right now, our last dog died earlier this year, but I’m ready for another one. Still trying to convince my husband that he’s ready. We do have five chickens in the yard, but they’re not exactly pets. I use large feeders, so you only have to feed them every couple days. It’s just, “Yeah. You got water, you’re good,” as I gather the eggs.

Grande LIVING: You have traveled to a few interesting places. Where have you gone?

Bea Lueck: Elaine and Rock love to travel, and Elaine wanted to take her sons to see London. Rock has been several times and didn’t want to visit the same museums and places again, so Elaine invited me to go. So far, we’ve visited the UK, Australia and Spain. We had a trip planned to China in 2020 but COVID derailed that.

We’ve got some plans in the coming year or two that may

include another trip across the Pacific. We’ve also talked about Germany. So far, on each trip, it’s very easy to take a thousand photographs. Just very, very interesting to see the different cultures and history. I love the history part of it. Going into the museums and art galleries and even the street vendors. So unique to each country. It isn't 100% set yet where the next trip is planned but everyone will enjoy the 1,000-odd photos we post on Facebook!

Grande LIVING: OK, so what’s in your future? What about retirement, is that anywhere on your horizon?

Bea Lueck: No, not for a few years. I just turned 60 this year, so I’ve still got a few years to put in before I think of retiring. There will be a big announcement around the end of the year that I'm very excited to share. There are a few more regulatory elements to complete. More to come!

I’m not sure retirement is in my blood. I enjoy the craziness I call work.

Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb July 2019 Elaine, Chandler, Bea, Christian

THE RIGHT THING FOR OUR YOUNG PEOPLE!

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

The Arizona Mayors Education Roundtable, of which I am a member, is a nonpartisan, collaborative action group committed to achieving the statewide postsecondary attainment goal of 60% by 2030.

According to the National College Attainment Network, one of the best predictors of postsecondary enrollment is completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). High school seniors completing the FAFSA are 84% more likely to enroll immediately in postsecondary education, and low-income FAFSA completers are 127% more likely to enroll immediately.

Submitting the FAFSA — often the first step in the financial aid process — provides students with opportunities to access federal and possibly state and/or institutional resources to pay for college and career training programs. Arizona ranks 49th in the nation for the percentage of high school seniors completing the FAFSA. As of June 9, 41.4% of 12th-grade students have completed a FAFSA.

More than a dozen states have either adopted or are considering universal FAFSA completion policies.

These policies tend to provide support and options for students, including waivers, opt-out and no-harm provisions while obligating local education agencies to oversee implementation.

Ten states — Louisiana, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, California, New Hampshire, Indiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Kansas — have adopted FAFSA completion, or a suitable alternative, as a graduation requirement.

In all cases when FAFSA completion is required, school graduation and postsecondary enrollment rates increased, and in Louisiana’s case, the state ranks first in the nation for FAFSA completions.

Given the evidence and growing trend to require FAFSA completion for high school seniors, the Arizona Mayors

Education Roundtable resolves to:

a. Raise awareness about the significance of FAFSA completion and discuss FAFSA data with councils and local education leaders.

b. Promote the Arizona Promise Program, local promise initiatives and statewide FAFSA completion resources (e.g., Ask Benji Chatbot, FAFSA Campaign, FAFSA Challenge, FAFSA Dashboard, and FAFSA Hotline).

c. Establish FAFSA completion as an expectation for 12th-grade students and support FAFSA completion events and workshops in their communities.

d. Encourage and incentivize FAFSA completion and the potential of making FAFSA completion a high school graduation requirement in accordance with recommendations from the National College Attainment Network.

I would like to ask all high school superintendents to consider making FAFSA completion a requirement for graduation in your schools. Let’s do the easy thing, let’s do the right thing!

Protect your Business Assets from a Spouse

by Patricia Glover, Certified Legal Document Preparer

Arizona is one of only nine community property states. Under community property laws, both spouses own everything acquired during their marriage equally.

Half of all first marriages end in divorce, and that rate is substantially higher for second and third marriages. If you are married in or living in Arizona, your assets may be divided in accordance with community property laws even if some or all of those assets are titled in only your name.

When forming or amending a business, the members (or partners) — to protect business assets from a spouse (or worse, a partner’s

spouse) — should create an operating agreement, which outlines, at minimum, the distributions of profits and losses, liability of members, dissolution and assignment rights, successors and agents, and creditors and third parties.

The business formation documents should also include spousal disclaimers (where each member’s spouse waives his/her right to the business) and a designation of beneficiaries (outlining what will happen to each member’s share of the business in the event of his/her death).

Following these simple business steps can save tens of thousands of dollars in future litigation costs.

New FEDERAL LAW Protects Pregnant Workers

by Denis M. Fitzgibbons, Attorney, Fitzgibbons Law

Pregnancy Discrimination Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, to address the unique challenges faced by pregnant workers.

physical demands of certain jobs.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), which took effect June 27, is designed to protect and empower pregnant employees. It aims to eradicate workplace discrimination against expectant mothers and ensure they receive fair treatment and reasonable accommodations during their pregnancy.

The Act applies to all private and public employers with 15 or more employees and serves as a bridge with existing federal laws, such as the

One of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act’s key provisions is the requirement for employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” that reflect a worker’s known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions.

Such accommodations may include more frequent restroom breaks, modified work schedules, assistance with heavy lifting, allowing temporary transfers to less physically demanding positions, and providing a private space for expressing breast milk. These adjustments aim to promote a healthy and safe working environment for expectant mothers, reducing during pregnancy the risks associated with the

To determine reasonable accommodation, the employer must engage in an interactive process with pregnant employees to determine appropriate steps that allow them to continue performing their duties safely and effectively.

The reasonable accommodations requirement carries an exception in cases where providing the accommodation would impose an “undue hardship” on the employer. The burden is on the employer to establish that the accommodation would be significantly difficult or expensive.

The new law also prohibits retaliation against employees who seek accommodations or assert their rights under the Act. Employers are now mandated to treat pregnancy-related requests and complaints

with the same level of seriousness as any other workplace matter, safeguarding pregnant employees from any form of adverse treatment based on their pregnancy status.

To comply with the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, employers should review and update policies for pregnant applicants and employees, alert their supervisors to the Act and its requirements, maintain open communications with pregnant workers, and work with them for the best solution.

By requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations and protecting pregnant employees from discrimination and retaliation, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act empowers expectant mothers to thrive in their careers while preparing for the lifechanging experience of motherhood.

Denis M. Fitzgibbons

2023 Photo Contest People's Choice

Winners of the People's Choice award from our 2023 photography contest received the highest number of votes in our Facebook album.

Melissa Altamirano photo

Melissa Altamirano photo

Rhiannon S. Welch photo

Santos Apodaca photo

PaulMartinImages.com photo

Santos Apodaca photo

Melissa Altamirano photo

Rhiannon S. Welch photo

Tammy Keyes photo

Rhiannon S. Welch photo Santos Apodaca photo

Karen Geldmacher photo

Laura DeTour photo

Laura DeTour photo

Tamiwicchick photo

JL Lynn photo

Nichole Williams photo

Monica Idom photo

Ramon Robles photo

Lori Almaraz photo

Sherry Carrell photo

Matt Herman photo

Kevin M. Wead photo

PaulMartinImages.com

photo

KassRay photo

Courtney Dennis photo

Ginny Miller photo

Martha Alvarado photo

Kevin M. Wead photo

Pick Foods that Protect Oral Health

by Blake Herzog

Most of us have a general idea of which food and drinks aren’t great for keeping our teeth and gums healthy, including candy, sugary drinks and acidic substances like soda and citrus.

The list of foods that promote oral health isn’t as wellknown, so we’ve pulled together an assortment of fruits, veggies, fish and more types of food bearing loads of nutrients that can protect our oral health:

• Apples — They do contain some natural sugars, but these fibrous fruits require a lot more chewing than the average food to comfortably digest. This gives your jaw a workout, which in turn stimulates saliva production to wash away bacteria and neutralize any acidity that’s present.

• Cinnamon — This spice has antibiotic properties that have won it a slot in mouthwash ingredient lists, and it’s simple to make your own just by boiling some water and mixing cinnamon powder into it, then letting it cool down before swishing it in your mouth for a few minutes.

• Crunchy vegetables — Carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, jicama and celery benefit your teeth in much the same way apples do, forcing you to spend more time chomping down on nutritious food, absorbing vitamins and minerals that strengthen your teeth and bones while gently scraping away some of the plaque-causing germs on your teeth.

It’s important to remember that crunch alone does not make a dentally healthy choice and hard candies, chips and even ice can do real damage.

• Dairy — Any food that’s high in calcium is naturally going to fortify your teeth, gums and jawbone, and nearly all of these fit the bill as long as they aren’t loaded with sugar. Yogurt and other cultured foods have the bonus of promoting beneficial bacteria that could play a role in fighting cavities.

• Garlic and onion — Both of these are notorious for triggering bad breath, at least in the short term. But they also have antibiotic properties that fight against tooth decay and gum disease.

• Salmon — Oily fish with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids help your gums resist infection and bounce back from it more quickly.

Get Fit with your Pets

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

Exercise helps us all stay fit and active — and also yields a multitude of health benefits for our dogs, too!

Exercising with your dog helps them maintain a healthy weight, keeps their joints and muscles strong and improves their cardiovascular system. Giving our dogs an opportunity to exercise with us can increase bonding time and help to improve quality of life.

Did you know studies have shown, having a dog was very good fitness motivation for a lot of pet parents?

If you are starting out, a good rule of thumb for beginning an exercise program with your dog is to start with 30 minutes of physical activity, three times a week. Dogs, just like us, love routine.

Try establishing a set time and place that will help your dog look forward to their exercise time. Start slow if your dog is not accustomed to being physically active

Depending on your (and your pups) fitness level, here are some fun ways to work on some exercise/bonding time.

Take your dog for a walk. The second mine notices me grabbing his harness he loses his mind. WALK !!!!!!!! Many dog owners use the need to walk their dog as the motivation to exercise. A daily walk will keep you and your dog happy and healthy — it’s win-win!

Play fetch — with a twist. Maybe you chase your pup while he fetches the ball and get some sprints in yourself.

You know the time you spend waiting

for your dog to return the ball? That’s the perfect time to squeeze in a quick exercise sets. Burpees, jacks, squat jumps, lunges, whatever you feel comfortable with.

Tug it out. Our dog’s favorite, hands down, is tug of war, with anything he can pull. He won’t give up.

If you are feeling strong and up for a challenge, then a game of tug-ofwar will get the heart pumping.

Remember, you and your dog should be happily tired, not exhausted, when you are done exercising for the day.

While your dog may not realize it, he’s the perfect fitness partner. And he’s ready to join you on your fitness journey

And as always, check with your veterinarian.

Watch for Our New Bookmobile Traveling Around Town!

by Amber Kent, Library Manager, Case Grande Public Library

The City of Casa Grande Public Library is extremely excited to announce the launch of our new bookmobile.

Featuring a beautiful new wrap and with the slogan, "The Library has Left the Building," the bookmobile did just that. Considered a mobile branch of the Casa Grande Public Library system, it will provide many of the same services as the

two library branches in Casa Grande.

It is effectively an extension of the Casa Grande Public Library, providing library materials and timely personal services to communities, neighborhoods and individuals.

The City of Casa Grande Public Library has run a small bookmobile service for the past

15 years. When the service first started Feb. 8, 2007, it focused on literacy training for adults. In addition to bookshelves, the redesigned 15-passenger van had wireless internet and laptop computers with software to teach language and literacy skills.

As internet access became more common, the bookmobile shifted to bring reading material to retirement communities to assist patrons who have difficulty physically coming into the library. For those with limited mobility, the bookmobile brought a steady stream of books and movies, along with a friendly face.

However, the van was not handicap accessible, and residents were unable to browse its shelves, instead relying on library staff to select materials for them.

Since becoming the Library Manager in 2012, Amber Kent has been looking for opportunities to acquire a larger bookmobile that could handle a more traditional library service model. This spring she found a used bookmobile for a very reasonable price at the Fossil Ridge Public Library in Braidwood, Illinois.

Through the generosity of The Friends of the Casa Grande Library and local businesses, the City of Casa Grande purchased the 32-feet long bus, which has beautiful wooden bookshelves, an area to sit at a laptop to

browse the catalog and learn about digital services, handicapped access, and more.

Business sponsors include Capital R Construction, Coldwell Banker ROX Realty, Jones Casa Grande, Absolute Construction, Ellison Mills, Casa Grande Eye Care, Mitchell & Crosby Dental, Walton Orthodontics and the Studio of Dance.

Egan Eyes Photography provided a stunning landscape photo from the area for the wrap. The wrap’s design was provided by Radius Sign & Banner.

Route plans are still in the planning stages for the new bookmobile. Service priorities include outlying communities with limited access to an established library, senior/care/youth facilities, and community events.

Our goal is to provide information to people of all ages and abilities for their recreation, education and life-long learning needs. We also want to increase the visibility of the library and Friends of the Library by generating a positive image throughout the entire community.

When you see the new bookmobile drive by, give us a wave, we can’t wait to meet more of Casa Grande!

Former CAC Student Graduates with ASU Engineering Degree

Submitted by ASU, CAC

rizona State University and Central Arizona College are proud to announce the success of former transfer student Jared Gale, who recently graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from ASU in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Jared’s journey began while working in the Arizona copper mines, where he reflected on his future and the impact of physical demands on his health and well-being. He enrolled at CAC and found an experience with approachable professors who made difficult courses easier to understand.

Jared then used MyPath2ASU® to plan his transfer pathway, term by term, and save time and money beginning at the community college.

At ASU, Jared pursued his passion for electrical engineering. He says he enjoyed the flexibility and support of his professors and found that ASU had more classes directed toward what he wanted to learn in the engineering path compared to other universities.

AHe also found joy in the undergraduate teaching assistant program, which allowed him to help give back to some of the students and solidify his foundation and some of the more basic knowledge.

Jared’s success is a testament to the quality of education and resources available at both CAC and ASU. CAC provides an excellent foundation for students to prepare for their transfer to universities like ASU, and MyPath2ASU® offers a smooth and cost-effective pathway for transfer students. ASU offers flexible and supportive learning environments, innovative programs and a diverse community that values every student's success.

Jared’s advice to new ASU transfer students is to show up, do the work and follow through to the end. His story proves that with determination and support from both CAC and ASU, students can achieve amazing success and graduate with amazing opportunities.

ASU and CAC are proud of his achievements and wish him continued success in his career in environmental testing. ASU remains committed to providing an exceptional education and experience to all its students, including transfer students.

Jared graduated ASU with his BSE in December 2021. Learn more about his transfer experience from CAC to ASU at www.vimeo.com/818516057.

Jared Gale

You Health, Happiness & Education

You Health, Happiness & Education

Small Group of Volunteers Makes Large Impact

by Donna McBride, Pinal County Juvenile Court Program Administrator II

The Pinal County Community Advisory Board is one of those small groups of volunteers that most won’t recognize, but you most likely feel the impact they make in our communities.

A small group of citizen volunteers, they represent diverse professional, cultural and community backgrounds.

The main purpose of the group is to evaluate and enhance services provided by the Pinal County Juvenile Court Services. The common interest is to ensure that Juvenile Court practices continue to reflect the best interest of youth, families, victims and the community.

Whether youth are involved in the justice system on probation, diversion, detention or foster care, this group has a long standing history of being champions of youth in Pinal County.

Established over 20 years ago, the Community Advisory Board members represent Florence, Casa Grande, Gila River Indian Community, Superior and San Tan Valley. Their backgrounds in education, law enforcement, faith, small business and ranching help the department have a broad scope of public opinions when it comes to juvenile justice.

The group financially sponsors several events popular among local schools and organizations: the annual Mock Trial Competition, Student Scholarship/GED Program, Character Counts Essay Contest, National Adoption Day and Family Reunification Day Celebration.

The group even funded the Kids Zone at Pinal County Superior Courthouse – a special playroom/waiting area for child victims. Additionally, the group hosts Thanksgiving and Christmas events for the youth detained at the Youth Justice Center.

This is a working board that meets every other month. To find out more about the Community Advisory Board and to help their cause contact me at DMcBride@courts. az.gov or 520.866.7094.

Community Advisory Board Members

Pastor Roy Edwards, Co-Chair

Deborah Martinez, Co-Chair

Steven Sekrecki, Secretary/ Treasurer

Lisa Flores

Carmen Duarte

Carson McWilliams

Greta Edwards

Trudy Keenan

Manny Ruiz

2023 Character Counts Essay winners with Presiding Juvenile Judge Delia Neal, far right and Director Denise Smith.

Ribbon Cutting for Kids Zone Waiting Room

APPLY NOW! CENTRALAZ.EDU

Food for Thought

by Gigi McWhirter

People often ask me what we feed our dogs. We feed them highquality, dry food. We also stir in a little bit of canned food or other mix-in.

The discussion for raw diet versus kibble should be had with your pet’s veterinarian or a board-certified animal nutritionist. This is the recipe we use for our hound’s mix-in:

• Cooked lean ground meat such as chicken, turkey, or beef

• Kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• Frozen peas

• Frozen carrots

• Frozen green beans

• Butternut squash, diced

• Cooked rice (brown or white)

The portions are up to you. I typically use one pound of ground meat, one can of kidney beans, and one large package of mixed frozen vegetables.

Place the ingredients into a slow cooker. Add water or low sodium

broth. Cook on high for four hours, stirring occasionally.

You also may prepare this in a Dutch oven on top of the stove. Store unused portions in the fridge for up to a week.

Canine approved substitutions:

Exchange or add cauliflower rice. Our canines love it — probably because cauliflower smells icky.

Make sure the meat you buy is very lean and with no skin. Dogs should not eat fatty proteins. Consuming them can lead to GI distress or worse, an attack of pancreatitis, which not only is painful and potentially life threatening but can be expensive to diagnose and to treat.

Always pre-cook the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.

You can exchange or add vegetables. For instance, pumpkin or sweet potato instead of butternut squash. Try adding Brussels sprouts for a delicious surprise.

For variety, add diced apples or blueberries.

Instead of kidney beans, try lentils or pinto beans.

Try adding a small amount of cooked chicken livers to the mix for a healthy treat. They are very rich, so don’t use too many.

Salmon, salmon oil and fish oil also help with skin allergies and inflammation.

If you are considering using this recipe as your dog’s main diet, consult with your veterinarian first, not Dr. Google, to review ingredients and to figure out serving size. The amount served should be based on the size and desired weight of your dog.

Introduce small amounts at a time to avoid GI issues.

For a complete list of people foods to avoid feeding your pets, check out www.aspca.org.

Happy Tails to you & Bone Appetit!

You HOME & GARDEN

You Can Live in the Lap of ‘Micro Luxury’

by Blake Herzog

“Micro luxury” is a term and hashtag that’s been trending as people who feel priced out of the chance to live like the Roys on Succession or the Kardashians on what is now simply The Kardashians look for ways to indulge themselves without breaking their budgets.

It’s used in both fashion and interior design, and both pay close attention to details to elevate the appearance and comfort of both.

At home you can embrace the trend by sprinkling luxurious, high-end Easter eggs throughout the house or lavishing one space, no matter how small, with cushy, decadent furnishings and accessories.

LIVING ROOM

Many of our thoughts for this space can be carried out in spaces throughout the house.

If you don’t have the money to buy a new velvet couch, look for throw pillows and textiles made of velvet, silk, satin or other opulent materials to dazzle family and guests alike. Embroidered designs add further depth and heft to your cushions, and detailed piping adds even more elegance while helping to preserve the shape of the pillow.

A wool or silk rug can knock your room out of the park in terms of richness.

More understated gestures can give a surprising boost to your living room or any other space. Well-kept curtain tiebacks open up a world of possibilities of how you can drape them to allow the right amount of natural light in while impressing your guests.

Metallic inner linings for lamp shades can transform your interiors by refracting light until it sparkles — a copper finish adds a warmer tone while silver lends a brighter effect.

BEDROOM

Micro luxury here may be a bigger asset than anywhere else, assuring you get the most restful, healthiest sleep you need to function at your best.

Make sure your sheets are as soothing and pleasing to you as possible; cotton sheets with a thread count of 400 or above are usually a good bet but go with what feels right to you.

Contrasting light with dark neutrals in the décor showcases the depth and richness of deep green, navy, brown or black surfaces.

KITCHEN

Given the time and expense it can take to transform a kitchen it may seem difficult to translate the micro luxury trend there, but there are many details you can upgrade there, starting with the pulls on drawers and cabinets. Replacing tarnished handles with gleaming silver, gold or copper hardware will immediately impact the ambiance as you cook and eat. A couple professional-grade pots and pans will add to the feel while saving you money in the long run.

BATHROOM

Since most of these are relatively small it’s easy to make a large impact with just a few tweaks. It’s striking how much a ceramic soap dish or dispenser and a color-coordinated cover for the tissue box will enhance the aesthetic.

Finish it out with plush towels, a comfy bath rug and an impressive cotton shower curtain to showstopping effect!

DO YOU NEED A REALTOR® FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION?

The agent at the model homes works for the builder. A home purchase is probably your biggest purchase in life. Shouldn't you have an experienced real estate professional representing your best interests?

When you are considering buying a new build home, the agents at Coldwell Banker ROX Realty are here to help:

• Negotiate pricing, upgrades and add-ons

• Explain the paperwork

• Oversee home inspections during construction phases

• Assist with selling your current home

• The Buyer pays no commissions or fees

Bring Timeless Design to your Bathrooms

If you’re getting tired of chasing bathroom trends by overhauling yours every 10 years, or have been struggling to find a style that appeals to everyone in your family, it’s time to consider some classic design elements that have been embraced from generations back and aren’t going to fall out of favor anytime soon.

For every piece of the puzzle there are timeless turns you can take to keep them feeling fresh for many years to come.

FLOOR

Tile in white or another neutral color is always going to be the most classical type of flooring you’ll find for your bathroom, with black-andwhite checker or polka-dot patterns your best choice if you want to add some contrast. But you can play with a few different shapes to find

the design and texture that suits everyone.

Subway tile is the most obvious goto, but round penny tiles or hexagons small and larger also afford some great structural designs. You can go with larger tiles if you want to minimize time spent cleaning grout.

VANITY

This one isn’t too hard to figure out — choose a square or rectangular wooden shape with large doors surrounded by as many rectangular drawers as the plumbing will allow.

White, black and navy are the most classic colors, with natural wood finishes which offer a classic touch making inroads on the décor scene.

Pedestal sinks are beautiful but aren’t very functional unless storage isn’t a concern.

COUNTERS

If your budget can accommodate marble, this is where you should put it. It lasts virtually forever and will always have a foothold in the design world with its connection to both nature and elegance.

Granite, aside from the most highend varieties, is more affordable, and tile counters are a budgetfriendly and nostalgic choice with wide appeal.

TUB/SHOWER

If you have the space, a freestanding clawfoot bathtub is the most classic and striking design. Many bathrooms don’t, so other options include mounting a shower rod over a freestanding tub, a lowprofile or zero-entry shower or using standout brass or black fixtures to upgrade your current configuration.

Know When it’s Time to Call a Plumber

We tend to look at plumbing woes like a stopped drain a little bit differently than electrical malfunctions or other household glitches. It seems pretty intuitive: there’s something stuck in the pipes and once we get rid of it everything will be fine.

Anyone with a little bit of a DIY bent (and that includes a lot of us) can pick up a plunger, a snake and some Drain-0 at the supermarket and go to town, chalking one up for selfsufficiency.

It’s a tempting approach that can be effective in some cases, but there are scenarios in which you really need to let a professional take the lead:

• Banging noise in the pipes — That noise is likely rooted in a water flow or pressure issue.

Your pipes should have air pockets within them that help to prevent the hammering, but sometimes they’re breached by water and don’t function the way they should.

Draining all the water from your pipes via faucets and showerheads to allow them to get those pockets to re-form will sometimes resolve the issue, but if not then you’ll need to get a plumber on the line.

• Leaking at the base of the toilet — This points to a failure of the wax seal around the toilet and may be tied to other problems like a cracked tank, a faulty shutoff valve or other hidden malfunctions that also require somebody with the proper training to repair.

• Leaky water heater — Leaks can surface from valves or pipes that you might be able to tighten, but once you see water coming from the tank there’s probably been significant corrosion within it, and the hole will probably grow quickly, leaving few options but to buy a new one and have it professionally installed.

• Mold growth — If you can see it growing in the bathroom, kitchen or anywhere else in the house, it’s indicative of a hidden leak that could be causing major damage while spreading the mold.

• Spiking water bills — If there’s no obvious cause, you’ll need to hire a plumber who can bring leak detection equipment.

What ROX and What Sux?

What Sux in Floor Coverings?

Tiny area rugs!

Smaller rugs used to be fine when larger ones weren’t widely available. Today, most decorators believe area rugs, if they are used, should extend under at least the front legs of all furniture in the living room and tie the room together physically and aesthetically.

If you have a great little rug with aesthetic or sentimental value, try layering it on top of a larger rug that doesn’t clash with it, preferably of a natural fiber like jute or sisal.

What ROX?

Bare floors!

This isn’t a look that’s preferred by every homeowner and designer for a house with hard flooring, but there are major advantages. The most obvious is expense, since buying a rug that meets today’s size standards is often quite pricey. They also collect dust, hair and difficult-to-clean stains, so anyone with kids or pets needs to keep this in mind.

You also probably spent long hours picking out the right tile or wood for your floors, and rugs just cover all that work up!

Every summer, many homeowners who don’t have ceiling fans start to consider having a few installed in their home to either supplement their air conditioning or as a more affordable alternative to using it in the first place.

But once August and September come around they think the season for them has passed, and they should put that home improvement off until next year.

In fact, they can be just as useful in the winter, with one simple adjustment.

During the cold season, the fan’s blades should spin clockwise on the lowest speed, rather than counter clockwise on any speed. This will draw warmer air from the ceiling down toward the floor, helping to reduce your dependence on the heater and plugins like space heaters that can become hazardous. This can usually be done by flipping a switch on the base of the fan or using the accompanying remote or app.

Now that’s settled, so here are the other things to keep in mind while shopping for ceiling fans:

• Size — This is usually determined by the size of the room. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Star program recommends using the smallest fans with 29-inch to 36-inch fans in rooms no larger than 75 square feet. Rooms up to 144 square feet can take a fan with up to 42 inchblades, while 144- to 225-square-foot rooms need a 44-inch blade fan. Spaces 225 square feet to 400 square feet can use a fan with blades up to 54 inches.

Energy Star recommends multiple fans for larger rooms, but fans spanning up to 60 inches are available.

• Mount — Most extend down from a rod that puts it at least 7 feet away from the floor. Flushmounted fans allow more headroom and less interruption of the room’s flow but are less efficient for moving the air.

• Style — Lights mounted on ceiling fans are a very popular option, and they come in every style imaginable from classic to industrial. You’ll want to keep the current décor of the room and any anticipated changes in mind while you shop.

Fun

TRAVEL, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Traveling in Southern Japan , Part 2

by Tori

Ward, Cruise and Resort Specialist, ROX Travel

Osaka Nightlife

Photo by Tori Ward

My first impression of most castles is, “Wow! How did any army defeat this enormous fortress?” Then, I realize I’ve answered my own question because it would take several battalions to defend a complex as large as Kumamoto Castle, and it would be just a matter of time before they ran out of provisions and water.

We started our day exploring the public areas of the castle complex originally established in 1467 and mostly restored in between 1998 and 2008 after centuries of damaging events including earthquakes.

Departing mid-morning, we arrived in Takachiho in time for a sample of local sake followed by a hearty lunch that fortified us for the hike down into the gorge. The beautiful waterfall and cave that cuts into the gorge are steeped in legend.

We didn’t catch a glimpse of the sun goddess, but had fun watching the rental boats bobbing and dodging each other along river. We ended our day at the Amano Iwato Shrine, a quiet and cool way to refresh after the excitement of the gorge.

The small town of Yufuin tempted me to find a tiny corner and hide so the tour would leave me behind. Nestled below Mount Yufu and surrounded by terraced rice fields and hot springs puffing in the spring air, the walk around Kinrin Lake chilled me into a reluctant walk back into the pedestrian area.

Yufuin is small, but with huge appeal with many boutiques and art galleries representing both traditional and contemporary styles.

The hot springs theme continued on our visit to Beppu. There are eight hot

springs bubbling, each with a different name signifying a journey through hell such as Cooking Pot Hell and Tornado Hell, the last erupting every 10 minutes. You can purchase eggs boiled in the hot springs, which to me didn’t exactly smell like heaven.

However, the greenhouse bursting with the scent of bananas and orchids blooming in the humid air smelled lovely.

Following lunch, our bus parked in the belly of a beast of a ferry. This is probably the most efficient means of traveling between the two southern regions of Kyushu and Shikoku, but if you are not a hardy sailor make sure to take preventative precautions.

A number of our fellow passengers didn’t enjoy the choppy three-hour journey as much as we did and were happy to get back on the bus as rain started to spit on our way to Dogo Onsen.

Darkness and mist combined to present Dogo Onsen, Japan’s most famous hot spring, in all her noble mystery. We lingered in the silky hot springs, soaking tension from muscles tight from miles of bumping across land and sea and quickly realized

why it’s a favorite of the Imperial family.

Our final day included my favorite experience of the trip, a morning in Ritsurin Gardens with over 300 cherry trees sprinkling us with their delicate flowers. One of the trees is the “Authoritative” tree that meteorologists measure to determine the official start to cherry blossom season.

As beautiful as the trees are, the garden’s design embraced me. Its peacefulness lasted until Osaka’s Dotonbori district snapped me out of it. Picture Vegas on steroids. Towering neon lights compete with each other for space amid food carts and restaurants snaking down both sides of the Dotonbori-gawa River.

When contrasting the graceful Maiko performance, the ancient castles, hot springs, cold sake and electric nightlife, I believe Southern Japan offers diversity to appeal to every generation.

Scan for more information or to book your next trip with ROX Travel.

Beppu Hot Springs

Photo by Tori Ward

Ritsurin Garden

Photo by Tori Ward

Now !

September 15th

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR SEPTEMBER

September 16th

September 16th

Upcoming Concerts at Harrah's Ak-Chin - Maricopa

Harrah's Ak-Chin Hotel and CasinoMaricopa

There are three upcoming concerts at Harrah's Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino in Maricopa: Fri. Sept. 15Mexican rockers Caifanes; Sat. Nov. 11 - Josh Turner Long Black Train 20th Anniversary Tour; Sat. Dec. 16 - Parker McCollum. Tickets available through Ticketmaster.

www.caesars.com/harrahs-akchin/shows

September 16th

Casa Grande Farmers Market

702 E. Cottonwood Lane - Casa Grande - Casa Grande 7:00 AM

Held on the 3rd Saturday of the month at the First Presbyterian Church/PCSO Pinal County parking lot. Cost is $15 for a box of farmer-direct produce. Cash only. Market hours are 7:00 AM until produce is sold out. The market also has over 25 vendors. See Facebook page to confirm market details. Contact the market if you are interested in volunteering. Vendors please see website for info.

www.casagrandefarmersmarket.com

September 16th

Seeds of Hope 5K Family Fun Bubble Run

Villago Park - Casa Grande

7:30 AM

Come out and play/race with your family and friends. Enjoy music and lots of fun bubbles at the finish line of the Run for Hope 5K race. This event benefits ongoing programs that improve lives in our community, such as Hot Lunch, Afterschool, Angeles de Esperanza, and the Community Garden. Group rates available.

www.seedsofhopeaz.com

Maricopa Master GardenersGrowing Garlic in the Desert and Ask a Master Gardener

University of Arizona Maricopa Ag Center - Maricopa

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presented by Maricopa Master Gardeners at MAC. Planted in the fall and harvested in the spring, garlic grows well in the winter desert garden. Come and learn the varieties that grow well here in the desert and the key characteristics for taste and cooking that make each variety unique. See which varieties produced the highest yield in the demonstration garden. Stay after to have your questions answered by MAC Master Gardeners. 520.374.6263

www.facebook.com/ MaricopaAzMasterGardeners

Kids Day Maricopa 2023 Maricopa Wells Middle SchoolMaricopa

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Kids Day Maricopa is a free event open to all children in Pinal County held at Maricopa Wells Middle School (45725 W Honeycutt Rd.) Children will have the opportunity to interact with special guests, learning about health, safety, and environmental awareness in a fun, entertaining atmosphere. Free registration: www.eventbrite.com/e/ kids-day-maricopa-2023-tickets425844822327?aff=erelexpmlt. 520.494.4488

www.maricopachiropractor. com/index.php?p=402739

Central Arizona RacewaySeptember Events

Central Arizona Raceway - Casa Grande

7:00 PM

Sept. racing is scheduled for Sat. 9/16 and Sat. 9/30. Located at 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner in Casa Grande. Pit gate opens at 2:00 PM. Admission gate opens at 4:00 PM. Racing starts at 7:00 PM. See website for race classes. Adults $15, senior/military $13, Students $10 (age 12-17), free for 11 & under. Pit passes available. 602.292.7607

www.thecentralarizonaraceway.com

2023 Fiestas Patrias - Eloy

Central (Main Street) Park - Eloy

2023 Fiestas Patrias takes place in Central Main Street Park in Eloy Sept. 15 from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM and Sept. 16 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The festival commemorates Mexican Independence Day and celebrates the local Hispanic culture with music, food, and entertainment. The celebration is family friendly with entertainment for all ages and is free to attend. It's hosted by Corazon De Latinos Unidos (CDLU), a local nonprofit organization that has the goal of preserving and promoting the rich Hispanic culture through education and celebration. See website for event details.

520.431.3090

www.fiestaspatriascdlu.com

September 21st

Zipline EcoTours - Oracle

Arizona Zipline Adventures - Oracle

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Zipline EcoTour allows you to zip on 5 different spans ranging in length from 400 to 1,500 ft. and lasts approximately 2 hours. Open Thu. through Sun. by reservation only. See website for details. Located on Mt. Lemmon Rd. in Oracle.

520.308.9350

www.ziparizona.com

September 23rd

Maricopa Police FoundationSwinging for Safety Golf Tournament

The Duke at Rancho El DoradoMaricopa

7:00 AM

Join the Maricopa Police Foundation for the 1st Annual Swinging for Safety Golf Tournament! Learn more about the Maricopa Police Foundation at www.maricopapolicefoundation. com. Foursome registration - $500. Sponsorships available.

www.eventbrite.com/e/2023swinging-for-safety-golftournament-tickets-530006923977

Location:

Funny Women of a Certain Age

A night of comedy featuring nationally-known female comics over the age of 50!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2023, 7 – 9 PM

Tickets: $19-$30

Don P. Pence Center for the Visual & Performing Arts

Central Arizona College, Signal Peak Campus

8470 N. Overfield Rd. Coolidge, AZ 85128

September 23rd

Florence Farmers Market

McFarland State Historic Park

Florence

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The market is held on the porch at McFarland State Historic Park in Florence on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. 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

September 24th

Pinal County Libraries - Fall Events

Pinal County Library District

Library branches in the Pinal County Library District host a variety of events and activities. Find events at your local library by visiting the library district website and selecting your library branch. You can search events by age group, event type and date range. Upcoming events include storytime, book clubs, arts & crafts, music, language classes, chess clubs, STEM programs and much more!

520.509.3555

https://pcld.libnet.info/events

Phone: 520-477.SHOW (7469)

Website: EventsAtCAC.com

Email: Events@centralaz.edu

September 27th

Explore Local History

The Museum of Casa Grande is open 12:00-4:00 PM Wed-Sat. Collections include historic artifacts, archives, photography and more. The exhibits portray the development of mining, agriculture, railroad expansion, settlement, and technology. Admission is $7/adults, $6/seniors and is free for children and museum members. Located at 110 W. Florence Blvd. See website for special events at the museum.

520.836.2223

www.tmocg.org

September 28th

Learn about Arizona's Geology

Pinal Geology & Mineral MuseumCoolidge

Exhibits include fossils from all over the world, gems and minerals, and children's activities. Check the website for information about the Pinal County Gem and Mineral Society meetings and presentations. The museum is located at 351 N. Arizona Blvd. in Coolidge. Free admission. Open Wed.-Sat. 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

520.723.3009

www.pinalgeologymuseum.org

September 30th

Fly-In Breakfast

Casa Grande Municipal Airport

7:00 AM

The community is invited to enjoy breakfast with pilots and a great view of aircraft at the Casa Grande Municipal Airport. Breakfast hosted by Pinal Lodge #30 begins at 7:00 AM. $10 per plate for a full breakfast. Enjoy the Art @ The Airport display from the Casa Grande Art Association. Held on the last Saturday of each month.

520.426.3616

www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar

Advertise

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

September 28th

Motown Tribute Concert

Paramount Theatre - Casa Grande

5:00 PM

This concert will feature Eric Harris, Kamohl Aubrey and Shay P. performing tributes to Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Aretha Franklin. Presented by New Groove Entertainment at the historic Paramount Theatre. Tickets available online or by phone at 708.657.7485. A second show will take place on Sun. 10/1 at 4:00 PM at the Combs Performing Arts Center in San Tan Valley.

708.657.7485

www.tripleRRRproduction.com

September 30th

Walk on the Wild Side - Attractions of the Night Sky

Boyce Thompson ArboretumSuperior

6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Summer nights come alive when you Walk on the Wild Side at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Families discover the unique sights, sounds, and smells of the Sonoran Desert’s nocturnal life as your flashlight beams along the trails. Learn from local partners Liberty Wildlife with live animal encounters and educational activities. Keep cool with a treat from Breezy Pops, available for purchase. Pre-registration required.

520.689.2723

www.btarboretum.org

"All McCartney" - Ultimate Tribute to Sir Paul's Hits From Wings & Beatles

Combs Performing Arts Center

San Tan Valley

7:00 PM

Experience all the vocals, harmonies, instrumentation and unique sounds just as you remember them on songs like "Live and Let Die," "Uncle Albert Admiral Halsey," "Penny Lane," "Jet," "Band on the Run," "Got to Get You Into My Life," "Maybe I'm Amazed" and many more. All done completely live! The musicians for the “All McCartney” show take audiences on an unparalleled musical journey through Sir Paul's greatest hits. Check the website for additional shows happening at the performing arts center this fall.

480.987.5300

www.facebook.com/ CombsPerformingArtsCenter

September 30th

Movies Under The Stars

Central (Main Street) Park - Eloy

7:30 PM

Bring your snacks, blankets, and lawn chairs, and enjoy a "Movie Under the Stars" with us! Movie titles will be announced closer to the event dates. www.eloyaz.gov

October 5th

Explore Gila River Indian Community History and Culture

Huhugam Heritage Center - Chandler

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Open Tue.-Fri. 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Free admission. This modern cultural center highlights the ancestral, historic and current cultures of the Gila River Indian Community. The gallery features items from the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of Natural History, Yale Peabody Museum, Pueblo Grande Museum, Gila River Indian Community members and HHC collections. Tours should be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance. Located at 21359 S. Maricopa Rd. in Chandler.

520.796.3500

www.grichhc.org

October 6th

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. See website for special events. Fall hours:

9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

520.723.3172

www.nps.gov/cagr

Rock N' Roll Concert & October Shows at the Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre - Casa Grande

5:00 PM

New Groove Entertainment has four shows in Oct. at the Paramount Theatre in Casa Grande — Fri. 10/6 Rock N' Roll Concert, Fri. 10/13 Kool & the Gang Tribute Show, Thu. 10/19 Homero

Cerón & Company - Latin Jazz, Sat. 10/21 Jim Westover - Elvis Tribute Show. Tickets available online or by phone.

708.657.7485

www.tripleRRRproduction.com

October 7th

First Saturday at the Museum

Pinal County Historical Museum

Florence

First Saturday special events are held monthly from Sept.-June. On First Saturdays, the museum waives admission fees to provide the community with an affordable, educational, and family-friendly experience. There are rotating activities, including a scavenger hunt, a local geology activity, backyard bingo, desert animals, and more! Fall hours at the museum are Tue. to Sat. 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

520.868.4382

www.pinalcountyhistoricalmuseum.org

Youth Rodeo Series - Florence

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena

Florence

6:30 PM

First Youth Rodeo event of the 8-month series. Free admission for spectators. Events include mutton bustin', calf riding and steer riding. Championship buckles for the series will be awarded in the spring of 2024. See Facebook page for competitor registration information.

520.840.9154

www.facebook.com/ historicflorencefoundation

October 8th

Motorcycle Swap Meet - Casa Grande

Pinal Fairgrounds & Event Center

Casa Grande

8:00 AM

Gates open to sellers at 6:00 AM. Event starts at 8:00 AM. For more information call 480.209.8521. Located at 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner Rd. in Casa Grande. 520.723.7881

www.pinalfairgrounds.com

October 12th

Newcomers and Neighbors of Casa Grande - Meet & Greet

Central Meeting Hall - Casa Grande

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

The Newcomers and Neighbors Club of Casa Grande is a great place to meet new friends. Activity and interest groups meet regularly and all-club events are held several times throughout the year. Learn more at the monthly "Meet & Greet" orientation meeting, held on the second Thursday of most months. Meetings take place at 408 N. Sacaton Street. See website for details. www.cgnnc.com/calendar

October 13th

Wild West Music Fest

Copper Sky Recreation Complex - Maricopa

4:00 PM - 11:00 PM

The inaugural Wild West Music Fest takes place Oct. 13-15 at Copper Sky Regional Park in Maricopa. The festival is being held to celebrate the City of Maricopa's 20th anniversary. It will showcase national and local musical talent and will have delicious food and interactive attractions honoring Maricopa's early Stagecoach Days. Single-day and weekend passes are available. See website for the music lineup. www.wwmfest.com

October 13th

Coolidge Days 2023

San Carlos Park - Coolidge

Takes place Oct. 13-15 at San Carlos Park. The festival will include entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, community booths, a carnival and much more. Check the website and Facebook page for opening hours and the schedule of events.

520.723.4551

www.coolidgeaz.com

October 14th

Fall Plant Sale at the Arboretum

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Superior

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Fall Plant Sale takes place Oct. 14-29 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's the perfect time to pick up new trees, shrubs, perennials, and more for your garden or landscape. The plant sale features an array of plants from around the world, including native plants and plants native to the southwestern states and northern Mexico. These plants are better adapted for a climate like ours, making them more sustainable and water-wise.

520.689.2723

www.btarboretum.org

October 14th

Central Arizona Raceway Motorsports Event

Central Arizona Raceway

Casa Grande

6:00 PM

Located at 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner in Casa Grande. Pit gate opens at 2:00 PM. Admission gate opens at 4:00 PM. Racing starts at 6:00 PM. Will feature 8 race classes. Adults $20, senior/military $18, students $15 (age 12-17), free for 11 & under. Pit passes available.

602.292.7607

www.thecentralarizonaraceway.com

Open Mic Night - Casa Grande

Museum of Casa Grande - Heritage Hall

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Second Saturday of every month. All-ages open mic music and arts showcase. 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 max. 10 minutes for each performer. Free admission - donations welcome and appreciated. Presented by the Yoga Recovery & Healing Arts Project.

520.532.2337

www.yogahealingartsproject.org

October 18th

30th Annual Business ShowcaseCasa Grande Chamber of Commerce

The Property Conference Center

Casa Grande

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Free to attend. Presented by the Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce. The Business Showcase will be open to the public from 5:00-7:00 PM. Exhibitors only from 4:00-5:00 PM. Attend this popular annual event to see products and services offered by local businesses. There are 51 indoor exhibitor spaces. Make business connections and learn about your local business community. Event will include a DJ, prize drawings, networking, cash bar, and food will be available.

520.836.2125

https://cca.casagrandechamber.org

October 20th

Visit the Ostrich Ranch

Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch

Picacho

8:00 AM - 2:00 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. Open Fri-Sat-Sun-Mon from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM until Nov. 15. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Nov. 16 through Apr. 30.

520.466.3658

www.roostercogburn.com

Florence 3rd Fridays on Historic Main Street

Main Street - Florence

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Held on the 3rd Friday of each month starting in September. Enjoy live music, shopping, food and fun activities on Historic Main Street in Florence!

520.868.9433

www.florenceazchamber.com

October 21st

3rd Annual Dia de Los MuertosFlorence Padilla Park - Florence

2:00 PMBring the entire family to the celebration in Padilla Park! Free admission. There will be storytelling by Zarco Guerrero, mariachi music, folklorico dancing, kids activities, arts & crafts, food trucks and a beer garden. The Day of the Dead event is hosted by the Pinal County Historical Museum and Five20 Events. www.facebook.com/ events/723002083162272

October 21st

Maricopa Master Gardeners - Bees in the Desert and Ask a Master Gardener

University of Arizona Maricopa Ag Center - Maricopa

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presented by Maricopa Master Gardeners at MAC. Pollinators are key in garden success and bountiful harvests. Bees are a key pollinator for all gardens, even those in the desert. Learn how bees benefit the garden and how to attract these pollinators. Stay after to have your questions answered by MAC Master Gardeners. 520.374.6263

www.facebook.com/

MaricopaAzMasterGardeners

2nd Annual Oktoberfest

Casa Grande

Historic Downtown Casa Grande

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Head down to the intersection of Florence and 3rd St. for a fun-filled Oktoberfest! Food trucks, beer garden, entertainment, kid zones, and a show & shine car show. All proceeds will go directly to Casa Grande Rotary Foundation high school scholarship program. Free event - open to all ages.

520.836.8744

www.facebook.com/ events/2525487510931629

October 21st

Green Gala at the Arboretum

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Superior

5:30 PM

A special evening celebrating the Arboretum's upcoming centennial. It's the first of many evenings celebrating 100 years of our past, present, and future as we strive to create a more sustainable arboretum. Several sustainability awards will be presented at the event to recognize innovative programs, companies, initiatives or individuals in Arizona that have demonstrated sustainable environmental practices. There will be a showcase of "green" products and a farm-to-table menu.

520.689.2723

www.btarboretum.org

Coolidge Avenue Block Party - Good Vibes Car & Bike Show

Coolidge Avenue - Coolidge

7:30 PM

4th annual Good Vibes Car & Bike

Show runs from 9:00 AM to noon with vendors, food, music, and more. Event continues from noon to 7:30 PM with the annual Battle of the Bands. Proceeds benefit local veterans programs. Hosted by Sgt. J.D. Wadkins Jr. VFW Post 3713 in Coolidge.

www.coolidgeaz.com

October 25th

Pacana Park Pumpkin Walk

Copper Sky Regional Park - Maricopa

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Located at 19000 N. Porter Rd. Put on your coolest costume and attend the annual Pacana Park Pumpkin Walk! Local vendors will set up tables around the lake and hand out candy to kids. See the entries in the annual pumpkin decorating contest!

www.pacanapumpkin.com

October 28th

Fly-In Breakfast

Casa Grande Municipal Airport

7:00 AM

The community is invited to enjoy breakfast with pilots and a great view of aircraft at the Casa Grande Municipal Airport. Breakfast hosted by Pinal Lodge 30 begins at 7:00 AM. $10 per plate for a full breakfast. Enjoy the Art @ The Airport display from the Casa Grande Art Association. Held on the last Saturday of each month.

520.426.3616

www.casagrandeaz.gov/calendar

Halloween Street Stroll - Casa Grande

Historic Downtown Casa Grande

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Join us for a fun, FREE Halloween Stroll! Collect candy from participating businesses and booths.

520.836.8744

www.cgmainstreet.org

Oktoberfest - Historic Florence

Historic Florence

4:00 PM

Who's ready for some beer, brats & music?! It's our inaugural Oktoberfest in Historic Florence. We have two great bands lined up for the evening - the headliner will be Ship Happens, the ultimate yacht rock show in Arizona! Grab your captain's hat and dancing shoes for an evening filled with fun. All Aboard! This is a FREE community event - open to the public. www.five20events.com

October 31st

Coolidge Halloween Carnival & Haunted Gym

Kenilworth Sports Complex - Coolidge

9:00 PM

The Halloween Carnival will be held at the Kenilworth Sports Complex, 671 E. Coolidge Ave. Board games, pumpkin carving contest, costume contest at 7:00 PM, food and music for all ages. The annual Haunted Gym event will take place at the Coolidge Tyron Jackson Gym from Oct. 28-31 from 6:00-9:00 PM. Admission is $1. www.coolidgeaz.com

November 3rd

Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce Fall Golf Tournament

Francisco Grande Hotel & Golf ResortCasa Grande

8:00 AM shotgun start. Registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 20. Tournament includes 18 holes of golf, cart, swag bag, drink tickets, buffet luncheon, on course and fun hole opportunities. Prize drawings and awards/prize ceremony. $380/foursome or $100/ person. Sponsorship opportunities available. For more information call 520.836.2125. Register online. 520.836.2125

www.casagrandechamber.org

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. See website for special events. Hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

520.723.3172

www.nps.gov/cagr

November Shows at the Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre - Casa Grande3:00 PM

New Groove Entertainment has two shows in Nov. at the Paramount Theatre in Casa Grande — Fri. 11/3 Yachtzilla! Monsters of Soft Rock, and Sun. 11/12 Homero Cerón & Company - Latin Jazz. Tickets available online or by phone at 708.657.7485.

708.657.7485

www.tripleRRRproduction.com

November 3rd

Central Arizona RacewayNovember Events

Central Arizona Raceway

Casa Grande

6:00 PM

Racing is scheduled for Nov. Nov. 3-4 (Western World Championships), Nov. 10-11 (Keith Bryan Memorial), and Nov 16-18 (The Showdown at CAR).

See website for start times, admission prices and classes for each event. Located at 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner in Casa Grande. Pit gate opens at 2:00 PM. Admission gate opens at 4:00 PM. Pit passes available. 602.292.7607

www.thecentralarizonaraceway.com

November 4th

YARTSY "The Artsy Garden Tour"

Casa Grande Art Museum

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Self-guided tour of four private backyards, chosen for their creative landscapes. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. $10 donation supports the Casa Grande Art Association. Ticket link: www.eventbrite. com/e/yartsy-the-artsy-gardentour-in-casa-grande-az-tickets-696993906537

520.705.2055

www.casagrandeartassociation. org/yartsy-the-artsy-yard-tour

November 4th

17th Annual Casa Grande Veterans Day Parade

Casa Grande

10:00 AM

Parade starts on Brown Ave. and Florence Blvd., then continues to Florence St. and 2nd St. Please attend this event and honor those from our community who have served our country. Join the special event after the parade at Casa Grande VFW Post 1677, located at 111 E. 2nd St. 520.338.2568

www.facebook.com/

cgveteransdayparade

SWITZERLAND BY RAIL with Railbookers

GRAND TOUR OF SWITZERLAND SCENIC SWITZERLAND FROM BASEL

Zurich > Interlaken > Lausanne > Zermatt > Gornergrat > St Moritz

Lugano > Lucerne

15 DAYS

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Experience Jungfrau Railway, Europe’s highest-altitude railway station

• All in one blockbuster tour of Switzerland including all the scenic lines and key mountain excursions

• Traverse the Swiss Alps onboard the Golden Pass Line

• Take in a mountain panorama from the top of Gornergrat

• Experience Jungfrau Railway, Europe’s highest-altitude railway station

• Traverse the Swiss Alps onboard the Golden Pass Line

• Board the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz

• and more!

• Take in a mountain panorama from the top of Gornergrat

• Board the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz

• and more!

• Amazing Matterhorn views from the Gornergrat Cog Railway

Jungfrau mountain

Jungfrau mountain

• Enjoy time in two of Switzerland’s most scenic alpine towns – Interlaken and Chur

• Enjoy time in two of Switzerland’s most scenic alpine towns – Interlaken and Chur

• Alpine Adventure via boat and cable car or the worlds steepest cog railway to the top of Mount Pilatus

• Beautiful Scenery of The Golden Pass railway

• Highest railway station Europe atop the world-famous Jungfrau Railway

• Alpine Adventure via boat and cable car or the worlds steepest cog railway to the top of Mount Pilatus

• Highest railway station Europe atop the world-famous Jungfrau Railway

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy wonderful views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain from the Gornergrat Cog Railway

• Admire the majesty of the Swiss Alps from the panoramic carriages of the Glacier Express

• Marvel at the change in scenery onboard the UNESCO listed Bernina Express, and enjoy a true Italian pizza in Tirano!

• Marvel at the change in scenery onboard the UNESCO listed Bernina Express, and enjoy a true Italian pizza in Tirano!

• Experience the glamorous and world-famous Swiss resorts in Zermatt and St. Moritz

• Experience the glamorous and world-famous Swiss resorts in Zermatt and St. Moritz