Golden Corridor LIVING Magazine

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

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Featuring City of Maricopa Economic Development

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Save the date A 24 hour online giving movement!

Your donation to Seeds of Hope counts toward state-wide incentive cash prizes, increasing your dollar and our impact.

Visit seedsofhopeaz.com for more Arizona Gives Day information 2015 Cash Prize $10,000

2017 Cash Prize $10,000

2016 Cash Prize $8,000

Every dollar raised helps us continue our mission to improve lives by providing spiritual, educational and social support.

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Please contact the Casa Grande Community Hospital Foundation Office at (520)560-8164 or via email at Kaitee.Doll-Bell@bannerhealth.com to purchase your Raffle tickets. $50 Raffle Tickets with a 1 in 4 Chances to Win. $15 SeaWorld Family Trip for 4 Raffle Tickets

Contents THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

Download on Development In Every Edition:

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

Features:

Featuring City of Maricopa Economic Development

The ROX Interview:

Ricky Horst

Maricopa City Manager GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM

Spring 2019

16

$4.95 Complimentary • SPRING 2019

ON THE COVER: Various photos from the city of Maricopa.

Special Section:

36

Special Section:

67

Special Section:

99

Medical, Health & Wellness CASA of Pinal - 30th Anniversary CASA

Celebrating 30 Years

City of Maricopa, AZ

Economic Development Guide MaricopaEDA.com

City of Maricopa Economic Development

Maricopa Economic Development Alliance PO Box 1703 Maricopa, AZ 85139

(520) 424-0419 info@MaricopaEDA.com www.MaricopaEDA.com

Economy, Finance & Business

Health, Happiness & Education

Travel, Dining & Entertainment

How Our Chamber of Commerce Keeps the City United. . . . . . . . 30

The Overhead Myth . . . . . . . . . 54

Rolling on the River. . . . . . . . . . 84

Creating Safer Communities

The Health Benefits of Dance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

How to Restore Your Civil Rights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 CAC Revises High School Program Opportunities . . . . . . . 32

Through Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 A Small Business Turns Into a Family Legacy. . . . . . . . . 64

Pinal County Fair Set to Run March 20-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

G OLDENCORRIDORLIVING .COM

Letter from the Editor

Great things are happening in Pinal County!

T Bea Lueck

here has never been a better time to call Pinal County home. The announcements keep coming! Nikola Motors, Lucid Motors, Apex Motorsports – we will soon be known as the automotive capital of the Southwest.

As interest by developers and business owners looking to relocate to Pinal County continues to grow, the City of Maricopa Economic Development Department, in collaboration with the Maricopa Economic Development Alliance (MEDA), has created their first economic development guide.

Designed to provide an overview of the community to potential business owners and managers, site selectors, real estate developers and others looking for information on locating to Maricopa, the guide serves as an excellent marketing tool for the city.

Our interview this edition is with Rick Horst, the city manager for Maricopa. Rick moved to Maricopa last year and has hit the ground running, continuing the forward momentum and vision of the community. Be sure to check it out.

This is our Health & Wellness edition. Regular exercise, proper nutrition and a balanced lifestyle are key components to good health. But if you’re feeling stressed (and who isn’t

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

these days?), maybe now is the time to rethink how you approach daily living.

Check out our issue and see if you don’t feel just a little bit better knowing there are some easy solutions to a better way of life.

Dieting is a challenge for many of us. The City of Maricopa knows successful plans have a support system to encourage you reach your goal. The 2019 Weight Loss Challenge resulted in 98 residents losing a total of 705 pounds in 30 days! Congratulations!

With 30-years under its belt, the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Pinal County has plenty to celebrate. A truly dedicated staff and more than 80 volunteers have changed the lives of hundreds of children who became foster kids after being removed from their homes because of neglect and abuse.

The stories presented, including several from past foster children and program volunteers, are heart-wrenching.

With more than 14,000 children in foster care in Arizona, CASA is making a big difference not only by spreading the word on how the community can help but also on getting these kids adopted into loving “forever” homes.

This edition includes a special tribute section to the hard work of CASA. Please take a moment to read their

story and to see how you can help benefit the lives of these children.

I hope everyone is enjoying the weather and absolutely amazing display of wildflowers throughout the region! Our next edition focuses on education and the many choices parents have for their students. Check out of Facebook page for contests and questions. We love your feedback and photos!

–Bea

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G OLDENCORRIDORLIVING .COM PUBLISHER Elaine Earle, CPA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bea Lueck CONTRIBUTING WRITER Donna McBride DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Laurie Fisher SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Lance Besore CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tim Clarke GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Rebecca Bowen Shannon Price CUSTOMER SERVICE/AD TRAFFIC MANAGER Jo Wobser PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER Julie Turetzky COMMENTS & IDEAS editor@roxco.com CALENDAR INQUIRIES calendar@roxco.com • goldencorridorliving.com/calendar

VOICES Angela Askey Executive Director, Public Relations and Marketing, Central Arizona College Angela is the Executive Director of Public Relations and Marketing for Central Arizona College. Prior to her arrival at CAC, Angela served as the Media Relations Coordinator at Mesa Community College and the Community Relations Coordinator at Idaho State University College of Technology.

Joel Belloc Mayor, City of Eloy Mayor Belloc was re-elected for his second term as Mayor of the City of Eloy in November 2016. He has also served as a member of the Eloy City Council from 2002-2012 and as Vice Mayor from 2012-2014. He graduated from Central Arizona College with an AAS degree in drafting/design, attended Pima College and the University of Arizona, where he enrolled in landscape architecture. He currently manages his family’s farming business Belloc Inc. Mayor Belloc is a longtime resident of Eloy and has been married to his wife Cecilia for over 40 years. Together they have three children, 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Mila Besich Mayor, Town of Superior Mila Besich, a fourth-generation resident of Superior, was elected as the Town’s Mayor in 2016. She wears many hats in her community and region, serving as Executive Director of the Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition and Advertising Director for Copper Area News Publishers.

SUBSCRIPTIONS info@roxco.com • goldencorridorliving.com/copies ADVERTISING INQUIRIES info@roxco.com • goldencorridorliving.com/advertise (520) 426-2074 442 W. Kortsen Rd, Ste 101 Casa Grande, AZ 85122

Breanna Boland Executive Director, Casa Grande Alliance Breanna is the Executive Director of the Casa Grande Alliance.

She started working for the organization in 2012 as a Prevention Specialist. Breanna studied public health at Northern Arizona University and is an Arizona Certified Prevention Specialist.

Tiffanie Grady-Gillespie Golden Corridor LIVING is published by Raxx Direct Marketing. Editorial content is provided by affiliates of Raxx Direct Marketing, community members and local organizations. © 2019. 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 Golden Corridor 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. Golden Corridor 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 Golden Corridor LIVING Information contained within submitted articles had not been verified for accuracy and readers are responsible for CORRID LI V ING 8 GOLDEN forming their own opinions.OR Real estate information is as of 3-1-19 and is subject to current availability and pricing.

Certified Physical Trainer, CPT, WickedFiTT Tiffanie is the owner of WickedFiTT in Casa Grande, AZ. She is a well-known personal trainer, group fitness instructor and allaround fitness junkie. Tiffanie specializes in weight loss, strength and conditioning and general fitness.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

of the

Community

Tim Kanavel

Helen Neuharth

Economic Development Program Manager, Pinal County Tim graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in regional development. His career in Arizona has taken him from the former Greater Tucson Economic Council to the Arizona Department of Commerce, to private enterprise at the Tucson Airport, to president/CEO of the Wickenburg Regional Economic Development Partnership, and to his present position as the economic development program manager for Pinal County.

President & CEO, Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce Helen was hired as the President/CEO of the Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce in August 1991 and is a graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management from Boulder, CO. Helen is an active member of the Arizona Chamber Executives.

Corianna Lee

Christian Price

Performing Arts Center Director, Coolidge Performing Arts Center Corianna “Cori” is a performing arts teacher at Coolidge High School and the Performing Arts Center Director for the Coolidge Performing Arts Center. At Coolidge High School, she directs the dance, drama and technical theater programs, and was named as an Arizona Teacher of the Year by the Arizona Thespian Society. Corianna has a bachelor’s in fine arts in dance and an master’s in special education. She is married with four children and has been a resident of Pinal County for 17 years.

Mayor, City of Maricopa Mayor Price is serving in his third term as Mayor. Mayor Price is an entrepreneur and small-business owner and is a partner of the Sierra West Group, a financial advisory firm. Raised in Tucson and a graduate of Northern Arizona University, he participates in numerous regional and national coalitions including serving as the Treasurer on the Executive Committee of the Arizona League of Cities and Towns.

Donna McBride

Rina Rien

Councilwoman, City of Casa Grande Donna is the Program Administrator/Public Information Officer and Supervisor for the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Unit for Pinal County Juvenile Court. She is actively involved as a Board Member for Casa Grande Alliance, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, BlackBox Foundation, Mayor’s Reading Program, Pinal County Town Hall Vice Chair, Parks and Block Watch Captain for the Casa Grande Police Department. She is a current member of the Casa Grande City Council.

Director, Casa Grande Main Street As Executive Director of Casa Grande Main Street since 2012, Rina fosters a collaborative approach toward building a vibrant downtown community. Rina enjoys partnering with highly creative people who share a passion for promoting Historic Downtown and preserving its rich history.

Craig McFarland

Jon Thompson

Mayor, City of Casa Grande Born and raised in California, Mayor McFarland has lived in Casa Grande since 2005. He is a graduate of California State University, Fresno and retired from Golden Eagle Distributors in January 2015 as VP of Sales after a 10-year run with the company. He has spent 36 years in beverage business-sales management, marketing and operations. McFarland began his first term as Mayor in December 2016.

Mayor, City of Coolidge Mayor Thompson graduated from NAU in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He was first elected to the Coolidge City Council in 2002 and served as Vice Mayor from 2006 to 2010.

He gave up his council seat to run for Mayor and since being elected has retired as Division Director for the Pinal County Adult Probation Department after 30 years.

Gigi McWhirter

Tori Ward

Resident Animal Whisperer Conceived in a plane behind the Airport Tavern, Gigi is living proof that it takes a village to raise a kid properly. Married to the best man and we live in what I call the “Best Dog House in Casa Grande” shared with a bunch of dogs, two parakeets and a finch called “Rusty”. Lived in Alaska, drove on the Arctic Ocean, walked on the Great Wall of China and drank Guinness in Ireland. But none of this compares to my profound love of animals and Flying Leap wines!

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

Cruise and Resort Specialist, ROX Travel Victoria “Tori” is a cruise and resort specialist with a master’s degree in political science. She has completed more than 30 certification courses with the cruise and tour industry including the most advanced certification, Commodore, from Princess Cruise Lines. Tori is a member of the Cruise Lines International Association.

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! o l l e H We’re ROX Media Group G

olden Corridor LIVING Magazine is brought to you by ROX Media Group, a multimedia organization providing an annual portfolio of 3.6 million print copies of community, custom and travel publications throughout Arizona and in neighboring states. Our publications collectively reach millions of consumers who reside in or travel to Arizona every year and bring engaging local content to the communities and marketing partners we serve.

Since our founding in 2011, we have earned the respect of our readers and marketing partners through

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In addition to Golden Corridor LIVING Magazine, our other products you may have seen in the region include Golden Corridor Smart Shopper and the annual Winter Visitors Guide. Although you can find our work throughout our state, we are proud to be headquartered right here in Casa Grande.

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Bea is the general manager and managing editor of ROX Media Group. She handles the various day-to-day activities necessary to take the publications from concept to print and distribution. She has over 22 years of experience in multiple advertising media, including print, direct mail, television and web.

Bea Lueck General Manager & Managing Editor

Ray Newton

Contributing Writer

A veteran newspaperman, magazine and television reporter-editor, Ray also earned stripes at several universities, including Northern Arizona University, as a professor and administrator emeritus. Active throughout his adult years in several local, regional and national think-tank organizations, he’s a vocal advocate for giving back to communities where we live.

Julie is a marketing professional with 20 years of experience working in client and agency settings. Julie has created and managed marketing strategies across many industries, designed to meet client objectives and stay within an established budget.

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Senior Advertising Executive

Shannon Price Graphic Designer

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Katie Mayer Editor & Project Manager

Laurie Fisher Director of Sales & Marketing

Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Lance Besore

Tim Clarke

Lance is an Arizona native who has lived all over the state. He attended the University of Arizona and studied English literature Lance started his sales career in earnest in 2000 in the telecom industry. In 2003, he started working for New Times/Village Voice Media. Within a few short years he was one of the top Senior account executives nationwide. Lance then went to work in financial areas, such as Private Equity.

Shannon joined ROX Media Group in September 2018. She has an associate degree in graphic design as well as a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in marketing. Shannon is a graphic artist with more than six years of design experience and spent the past three years working in the newspaper industry. She and her family have lived in Casa Grande for over thirteen years.

Jo Wobser Customer Service/ Ad Traffic Manager

Rebecca Bowen Graphic Designer

Tim is a digital design professional with more than 28 years of experience. Tim is responsible for all creative consulting, magazine design, print production and web development for ROX Media Group.

He manages production for multiple publications as well as multiple Drupal and Wordpress sites for external clients.

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She is also an award-winning journalist and guest lecturer at her Alma Mater, the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University.

Laurie joins ROX Media Group as our new Director of Sales and Marketing from California. She is a marketing professional with over 25-years of experience, specializing in print and digital media such as SEM, SEO and social media, and enjoys helping her clients to achieve their marketing goals. Customer service is her No. 1 priority!

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442 W. Kortsen Rd., Suite 101, Casa Grande AZ 85122 520-426-2074 • roxmediagroup.net

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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Submit your event online at GoldenCorridorLiving.com/calendar MARCH

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DR. SEUSS STORYWALK! - 10:00 AM-10:30 AM - Main Library 449 N. Drylake St., Casa Grande. Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday at the library!

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COOLIDGE COTTON DAYS - 12:00 PM San Carlos Park, Coolidge. 38th annual event, carnival, parade, entertainment, food, dancing contests. Call 520-723-3009 for info.

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FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY - 5:30 PM-9:30 PM 280 E. 3rd St., Casa Grande. Come and enjoy great food and music every 1st Friday of the month.

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LOCAL ARTIST STUDIO TOUR - 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Casa Grande Art Associtation presents local artist’s studio tours. Meet and shop for unique treasures. Visit casagrandeartassociation. org for map & details.

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FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE FUN RUN - 7:00 AM - Copper Sky Recreation Center 44345 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Maricopa.

4th annual Sun Life Family Health Center event. To register and for more info visit www.

SunLifeRun.org.

CLASSICAL GUITARIST, KEEGAN NORMAN - 3:00 PM - CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge. Signal Peak Campus. Enjoy an evening of classical guitar music from around the world. Free admission. Call (520) 477-7469 for info.

DOMINGO DEGRAZIA & GABRIEL AYALA - 5:00 PM - Paramount Theatre 420 N. Florence St. Casa Grande. Live in Concert. Tickets $20. Call 520-836-4200 for info.

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SPIRIT OF THE WEST FESTIVAL - 10:00 AM-4:00 PM - PCHS Museum 715 S. Maint St., Florence. Fundraiser event ft. Leather working, quilting, live music and more. Adults $10, 18 & under free. Call 520-868-4382 for info.

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Protecting Your

Property Rights Title & Escrow Services Commercial Service 1031 Exchange

Direct Title Services Account Servicing

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421 E. Cottonwood Lane Casa Grande, AZ 85122 Office: 520.426.4600 I Fax: 520.426.4699 Email: latisha.sopha@titlesecurity.com

www.titlesecurity.com

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CAC WELLNESS HEALTH FAIR - 9:00 AM-1:00 PM - CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge.

Signal Peak Campus. Nursing students and local health pros offer this free event. Info, raffles & door prizes. Call (520) 477-7469 for info.

SPRING CONCERT SERIES EXIT 40 BAND - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - Peart Park 350 E 6th St., Casa Grande. Bring blankets and chairs for this free concert in the park series on a monthly basis throughout the series for everyone of all ages to enjoy. Vendors will be onsite selling goods each night.

PINAL 40 ST. PADDY’S DAY PARTY 6:00 PM - McMashers Sports Bar & Grill parking lot 1355 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande.

Food, entertainment, raffles. Tickets available call 480-986-9238 or visit Pinal40.org.

38TH ANNUAL CATFISH RODEO - 6:00 AM-10:00 AM - Dave White Park 2121 N. Thornton Rd., Casa Grande. Stocked with over 400 lbs. of catfish for a competition open to youth ages 15 years and under. No fee to participate. For info call 520-421-8677.

YARTSY! “THE ARTSY YARD TOUR” - 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Tour maps available at Casa Grande Art Museum 319 W 3rd St., Casa Grande.

Self-guided tour of six unique and creative yards in Casa Grande. $10 donation goes to Casa Grande Art Museum’s outdoor renovations.

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SONS OF THE PIONEERS - 7:00 PM - CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge. Signal Peak Campus. Legendary, world famous for their unique cowboy harmony and musicianship. Tickets $22. Call (520) 477-7469 for info.

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POWWOW FARMERS MARKET - 8:00 AM-11:00 AM - Boston’s Restaurant Parking Lot, 804 N Cacheris Ct., Casa Grande.

Produce on Wheels Without Waste. Up to 70 lbs. for $12. Visit borderlandsproducerescue.org for more info.

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SALSA FESTIVAL - 2:00 PM-8:00 PM - Copper Sky Regional Park, Maricopa - 15th annual festival. Games, food, spirits and entertainment. More info at www.maricopa-az.gov

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12TH ANNUAL CASA GRANDE FINE ART EXPLOSION - 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Peart Park 350 E 6th St., Casa Grande. Established as one of the unique shows of this nature in our region, with attendance estimated at 2,000 for the 3 day event. Call 520-836-8744 for info.

CGRD’S BIG HOUSE BOMBERS VS TRD’S BANDOLERAS - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Pinal Fairgrounds, 512 S Eleven Mile Corner Rd., Casa Grande. CG’s very own roller derby action. Tickets at cgrdgame2.brownpapertickets.com

2019 TEN MINUTE PLAY FINALISTS PERFORMANCE - 7:00 PM - The Women’s Club 407 N. Sacaton, Casa Grande.

Top 5 plays to perform winning play wins $500.

Audience select favorite to win $100. For more visit casagrandeaz.gov.

O’ODHAM TRADITION WAILA BAND - 10:00 PM-2:00 AM - Luxe Lounge @ UltraStar. Live music. No cover. Visit ultrastaraz. com for more info.

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MERLE HAGGARD TRIBUTE - 4:00 PM - Paramount Theatre 420 N. Florence St. Casa Grande. Tribute live in concert. Dinner & Show Tickets @ 623-760-5094.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

BUSINESS INDEX Absolute Homes / Vivid Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Academy Mortgage - CG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Annie-Mac Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

March – April 2019

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CABARET - 7:00 PM BlackBox Theatre 407 N. Sacaton St. 2PM showing also on the 9th. visit facebook.com/ blackboxfoundation or call 520-4287050 for info.

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COPA COLOR RUN - 8:00 AM-10:30 AM - Copper Sky Regional Park, Maricopa - 4th annual Fun Run (5k)/Walk (1 Mile) while getting doused with various cool colors. More info at www.maricopaaz.gov

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MAGIC NIGHT @ CAC - 5:00 PM-9:00 PM - CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge. Signal Peak Campus. Booths to create your own magical wand, culinary demos & a special screening of Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone. Free event. Call (520) 477-7469 for info.

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THE MUSIC MAN - 7:00 PM - BlackBox Theatre 407 N. Sacaton St. 2PM showing also on the 9th. visit facebook.com/ blackboxfoundation or call 520-4287050 for info.

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SPRING CONCERT SERIES THE RHYTHM EDITION 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - Peart Park 350 E 6th St., Casa Grande. Bring blankets and chairs for this free concert in the park series on a monthly basis throughout the series for everyone of all ages to enjoy. Vendors will be onsite selling goods each night.

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SPRING CITY WIDE CLEANUP - 8:00 AM-11:00 AM - City of Casa Grande. Our annual event. Get your group together, pick an area in town that matters to you and clean it up. Join us at the senior

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Casa Grande Valley . . . . . . . 55 Brutinel Plumbing & Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Capital R Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

APRIL FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY - 5:30 PM-9:30 PM - 280 E. 3rd St., Casa Grande. Come and enjoy great food and music every 1st Friday of the month.

Banner Hospital - CGMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Casa Grande Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 center for breakfast after. Contact 520-421-8677 for info.

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COOR’S ANNUAL SAFETY FAIR - 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Main Street Park, 601 N. C St., Eloy.

Kid friendly, family event.

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CGRD’S BIG HOUSE BOMBERS VS YUMAS BORDERCITY ROLLERGIRLS - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Pinal Fairgrounds, 512 S Eleven Mile Corner Rd., Casa Grande. CG’s very own roller derby action. Tickets at cgrdgame3. brownpapertickets.com

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ANNUAL STUDENT ART SHOW - 5:00 PM-7:00 PM CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge.

Signal Peak Campus. Enjoy the creative art displayed in our beautiful Pence auditorium. Free event. Call (520) 477-7469 for info.

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COMMUNITY BAND PRESENTS “AMERICANA” - 7:00 PM - CAC 8470 N. Overfield Rd., Coolidge. Signal Peak Campus.

Be sure to come early & enjoy the Annual Student Art Show in the lobby. Free admission. Call (520) 4777469 for info.

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POWWOW FARMERS MARKET - 7:00 AM-10:00 AM - Boston’s Restaurant Parking Lot, 804 N Cacheris Ct., Casa Grande. Produce on Wheels Without Waste. Up to 70 lbs. for $12. Visit borderlandsproducerescue.org for more info.

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NEW WAVE ORDER - 10:00 PM-2:00 AM - Luxe Lounge @ UltraStar. Live music. No cover.

Visit ultrastaraz.com for more info.

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

Casa Grande Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Central Arizona College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Chris Buys AZ Houses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Coldwell Banker ROX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 27, 57, 59 Coldwell Banker ROX - Property Management . . . . . 91 Cypress Point Retirement Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 DM Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Dreamstyle Remodeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Ed Whitehead’s Tire Pros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Fitzgibbons Law Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Grande Innovation Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Mankel Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Mitchell & Crosby Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Norris RV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Pinal County Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Pinal County Fairgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Pinal County Veterans Memorial Foundation . . . . . . 29 Renaissance Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 ROX Casa Grande Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 ROX Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Seeds of Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Star Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Sun Life Family Health Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Title Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Yang and Horsley Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

CASA SPECIAL SECTION Abbott Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Casa Grande Jewelry & Pawn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 La Frontera Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Norris RV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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PINAL COUNTY

by Staff Reports

• A RIZONA CIT Y • CASA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • M A RICOPA • A RIZONA CIT Y • CASA GR ANDE • COOL

Pinal Animal Control Proudly Evolves Into a No-Kill Facility

W It took two large cranes to lift the California Zephyr into its new location in Maricopa.

Iconic Zephyr Railcar Gets a New Home

O

nce called “the most talked about train in America,” the California Zephyr Silver Horizon railcar has a rich history that visitors to its new location will soon be able to experience.

Previously owned by Pinal County and situated at the Amtrak station, the retired railcar was moved Jan. 10 just a short distance away to the site of the former community pool adjacent to the Maricopa Unified School District offices. The relocation came about after it was determined that ongoing construction of the State Route 347 overpass might cause issues with preserving the historical railcar.

A concerted effort by the Maricopa Historical Society, which purchased the Zephyr for $1 in 2017, and the City of Maricopa helped move the project forward.

“This makes so much sense to transfer the ownership to the nonprofit historical society,”

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says Pinal County District IV Supervisor Anthony Smith when the sale took place. “We are pleased to help keep alive this symbol of an era when Maricopa played an important role for rail travel in the United States.”

The Silver Horizon was built in 1948 and continued its service through 1970 when it was purchased by Amtrak. It was decommissioned in 1985. For its inaugural run, women on the train were given silver and orange orchids flown in from Hilo, Hawaii. Car hostesses were called Zephyrettes and were the railway’s version of flight attendants. A 2,532-mile trip from Chicago to San Francisco took 50 hours and 50 minutes.

In 2000, the retired railcar made its way to Maricopa and for a while operated as the Amtrak ticket station. Today, it sits on land donated to the City by John and Mary Lou Smith.

“We are extremely thankful to the Smith family for their generous donation of the land

upon which the Zephyr now sits, for our partnership with the Maricopa Historical Society, and for the ability to preserve and display this part of Maricopa’s proud history for generations to come,” says City of Maricopa Mayor Christian Price.

Refurbishment of the railcar is in progress with a Zephyr Guild comprised of members of the historical society, businesses, volunteers and a variety of craftspeople taking part.

“We are looking forward to upgrading the car, building displays that can be interchanged, add a research library along with holding special events and open houses for the public to see the railcar,” says Paul Shirk, president of the Maricopa Historical society. “We wish to acknowledge and thank Supervisor Anthony Smith, Mayor Christian Price, City Manager Rick Horst and their staffs for the support and assistance in bringing this process to a successful conclusion.”

hen an animal control facility reaches a live-release rate (LRR) of 90 percent, that’s an achievement worthy of a pat on the back.

Pinal County Animal Care and Control (PCACC) hit the mark recently when its release rate reached 92.7 percent.

It isn’t easy to reach a LRR — the total percentage of animals that leave through adoption or are transferred to rescue organizations — of 90 percent and above, and there are many factors involved to getting there, says Audra Michael, Director of PCACC. “We work with over 50 different rescue organizations and send out pleas for animals in need of medical services or in need of foster,” Michael says. “We send out lists to rescue organizations as well as public network forums of animals in danger of being euthanized in an effort to get them out of the facility. Most of the time rescues or networkers have saved animals in danger and taken them to a better environment where they can thrive and be adopted.”

The facilit y has received grant funding from several organizations to implement spay and neuter surgeries, which has allowed it to offer reduced adoption fees.

“We do not have a veterinarian on staff, so we cannot always get animals the 0medical treat-

Continued on page 48...

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

PRESS

Visit GoldenCorridorLiving.com for Up-to-date Local News from Golden Corridor LIVING Magazine

LIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • M A RICOPA • A RIZONA CIT Y • CASA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • M A RICOPA •

Ak-Chin Offers a New Digital Entertainment Experience I magination Park Technologies Inc. announced that the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, an enterprise of the Ak-Chin Indian Community, will implement a new futuristic augmented reality (AR) designed to change the theatrical experience and social culture within the one-of-a-kind world-class facility.

Imagination Park Technologies creates engaging and interactive holographic content delivered by its cloud-based AR enterprise platforms. The company provides products for mobile phones and wearable headsets and enables UltraStar customers to point their phones at logos, signs, posters and landmarks to view or retrieve coupons, messages, videos and more.

Customers just need to download Imagination Park’s XenoPlay™ AR mobile browser app from the app store to open up a new world of interactive entertainment digital options while

The Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle contains a state-of-the-art digital theaters.

inside the center.

“We plan on using AR to add a new level of excitement and create cross-promotions and scavenger hunts between our

Visitors to The Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle can use their mobile phones to retrieve in-house coupons, videos and messages.

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

entertainment destinations,” says Laurie McCartney, Director of Marketing Operations at UltraStar. “The beauty is, we can very easily manage the AR campaigns ourselves. We don’t need an outside company or expensive application developers. We just simply drag and drop images and icons that we have on hand to activate them in minutes.”

The multi-tainment center features state-of-the-art digital theaters, bowling, bars, restaurants, night clubs, sports lounges, shops, live entertainment, laser tag and arcade gaming, as well as corporate and private event facilities. It will use Imagination Park’s AR platform to

further engage customers and encourage them to explore other venues within the facility.

UltraStar is recognized for pioneering the digital age of cinema. It is the first theater group in the world to be fully equipped with Pure Digital Cinema® powered by DLP Cinema® technology in all of its locations.

To get a better sense of what you will see, download XenoPlay from your app store and check out the demo on imaginationpark. com. UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle is located at 16000 N. Maricopa Road in Maricopa. For more information, log on to ultrastaraz.com.

Read more news on page 48...

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The ROX Interview

Rick Horst Maricopa City Manager Interview by Bea Lueck

W

hile money may have been Ricky Horst’s initial motivator for a career in city management, this Florida native learned the nuances of his trade by working his way around the communities of the Sunshine State. Now, as Maricopa’s new City Manager, this father of six and grandfather of 14 is ready to make his mark in a new territory. “I’m not a slow things down and take it easy type of guy and I’m not a status quo manager,” he says. “I’m a dig in and get it done type of guy and that’s the environment I want to be in.”

GC LIVING: Let’s start with your background.

Your resume says Ricky Horst.

RICK HORST: I’m officially Ricky. I can think of one other, Ricky Ricardo from I Love Lucy, but I’m officially Ricky, and a lot of people do think it’s short for Richard. I go by Ricky or Rick, but I sign everything Ricky.

GC LIVING: Where did you grow up?

RICK HORST: I grew up in a small town in northwest Florida called Crestview. It’s a city of about 7,000 people when I was growing up, but it’s only about 12,000 people today. Very rural but adjacent to the Eglin Air Force Base. My father was in the military and he was stationed there. I lived in Louisiana and the Philippines as a part of my upbringing, as well.

GC LIVING: Do you miss Florida?

RICK HORST: I do miss the ocean, the Gulf, the seafood, friends, but beyond that, no, I don’t. (laughing) GC LIVING: How about family. Any siblings?

RICK HORST: I have one brother, one sister.

My brother is 11 months older. My sister is five years younger. She lives in Utah, and he’s back in Florida.

GC LIVING: How did you decide, when growing up, to end up in city government?

RICK HORST: Well, I didn’t decide that

growing up. I started my career professionally with the Boy Scouts of America, and I worked in the Little Rock area. I had 18,000 boys I was responsible for and about 5,000 volunteers.

I did that for seven years, and at the time my parents were living in Saudi Arabia. My father had retired from the Air Force and was a consultant to the Saudi Air Force, and my mom got cancer. So she had to return home to get better care. My father had to decide whether to stay in Saudi Arabia and make sure he had the best insurance possible, or come home and have less than the best insurance possible.

So, he stayed in Saudi. She came back to Florida. I moved back to Crestview to help take care of her, and I had a degree in parks and recreation, so I applied for the local parks recreation job. I was a department of one.

Back in Crestview, Florida, is what started my career in government and trying to feed my family.

I was working on my master’s, and my professor said, “How’s it going?’ and I said, “I have all these great ideas, but no one will listen to me,” and he said, “Well, you’re probably going to have to be the boss for someone to listen to you.”

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

So, I decided that I wanted to get into city management, but at the same time remembered that people shouldn’t have to be the boss to be listened to, so I’ve tried to incorporate that into my work culture.

GC LIVING: Feed your family. How many people are in your family?

RICK HORST: Six children. My wife and I have been married 39 years. All six of my children are married. We have 14 grandchildren at present. Between my children, their spouses and grandchildren, we collectively speak eight languages. I do not speak anything other than English, however. We have quite a background: Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italian and Lesotho and a few more!

I have a 13-year-old grandson. He is fluent in Mandarin Chinese including the ability to read and write. He’s been in an immersion program since kindergarten.

His two sisters are also in this program.

GC LIVING: Wow. Do your children all live locally or abroad?

RICK HORST: I have a daughter who lives in Florida. I have a son who just moved to Arizona with his family. And then the rest of my children all live in various parts of Utah.

GC LIVING: Awesome.

So, when you got into city management in parks and recreation, how did you become the Director of Public Works?

RICK HORST: Really, I needed to make more money. I was (laughs) raising six children, and I remember saying, “If I could just make $50,000 a year, I’d have it made for the rest of my life.” Of course, that didn’t prove to be true, but, it was a good goal.

GC LIVING: When did City Manager come into play?

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17

The ROX Interview (continued) RICK HORST: It’s about 30+ years ago now, when I had been serving as a public works director and a small city had advertised for a city manager job. I applied for it and received the job and have been a city manager ever since.

And the background in public utilities and public works and library science and parks and recreation, all of that provided a good backdrop for understanding the nuances of city management more than just the finance and economic development side of it.

GC LIVING: Tell us a little bit about the different communities. What you found you like, what you found to be challenges and how it’s grown you to where you are today.

RICK HORST: The majority of the cities were very fast-growth cities, meaning building a lot of homes and a lot of residential building

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OR LI GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR LIV VING ING • THE INTERV IE W

going on. But cities cannot live on residential growth alone. Residential growth will drain a community’s coffers pretty quickly.

We have to find a balance. I’ve always been intrigued with a couple of things.

One is: How to do things differently than they’ve been done in the past; a very entrepreneurial, innovative approach to government. And part of it had to do with, “Why are we doing it this way?” Sometimes we can do things really well, but that doesn’t mean we’re doing the right thing.

And then the last part of it is: How do we pay the bills? You know, cities are very much like we are. Cities are born, such as the city of Maricopa was born 15 years ago, and it goes through its infancy, its teenage years and its working years, and then every community eventually will retire, which means they’ve kind of hit their build out.

And the question is: How do you enjoy your retirement at the same quality of life that you want ... as when you were working, which is what we want as individuals, too.

Now, Maricopa, of course, has a lot of years before it reaches retirement, but decisions we make today will determine how well we enjoy our retirement in the future.

This means we have to keep our debt low.

This means we have to pursue opportunities that come along for partnerships for shared services, whether it be with a school district or another governmental entity or a public enterprise. It means that we have to invest wisely so we have a return on our investments and to make sure we keep our tax levels as low as we possibly can as a part of that process. Most cities hit a pinnacle and then if they’re not careful they’ll slowly start spinning downward, and it’s hard to recover from that. We have to hit the pinnacle and know how to maintain that and stay there.

Most of our revenues come from new growth. They pay impact fees, development fees, plan-review fees. What happens when you have no more new growth and you don’t have all that money? Can you still sustain your police department, your fire department, your parks and recreation, maintain your roads? And that’s the key. And for a lot of people, that’s someone else’s problem 20, 30, 40, 50 years from now, but it has to be our problem today.

GC LIVING: Well, you’ve said it right there: Maricopa’s growth. It was incorporated October 2003?

RICK HORST: Yes, correct.

GC LIVING: That’s still a very young community. It does have its own police and fire, parks and a physical city hall instead of trailers on wheels.

RICK HORST: Yes, absolutely.

GC LIVING: And a gorgeous community center. What else is needed as far as infrastructure that residents expect in a vibrant, growing community?

RICK HORST: Well, the residents expect things like retail stores and their favorite grocery stores and their favorite entertainment centers, etc. And all those things are important, and frankly, they will come.

The infrastructure we need to be talking about is roads, water and sewer. I think we sometimes forget about our electrical. We

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

forget about the fiber. How do you recruit modern-day technology into your city if you don’t have a lot of these resources available to make those things happen? You have to find a way to make them happen.

You know, we have one road into town, 347 from the Chandler side of Phoenix, which has a lot of traffic, and we hear people talking all the time about how do we get in and out of Maricopa so they can get into work. I think my bigger question is: How do we make that where they don’t have to, where they can stay in Maricopa and have a job? It’s a catch-22. We probably have to tackle both problems at the same time.

As you know, our flood plain is an issue. And we’ve made that such a big issue people think it can’t be overcome. In my opinion, it can be overcome, and we have a game plan. We’re the people that knew

how to build the Hoover Dam and put a man on the moon. Well, I think we can overcome a flood plain problem.

The key to that is working with our developers and our builders, consisting of passionate people who know how to solve problems. And, I don’t see them as problems. I see them as opportunities. People have said, “What are your failures?” My answer, generally is “I’ve never failed. Just some successes take longer than others.”

GC LIVING: Maricopa grew over 5,000 percent from 2003 to 2015. Do you think it will ever experience rocket ship growth like that again, or will it be a more manageable growth?

RICK HORST: The answer is: “No.” I don’t think we will, and the answer is even if that opportunity presented itself, we should not accept it because when you do you some-

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

times make errors in the process of such fast-paced growth. Some of those errors we’re living with today.

But I do think we’re going to see a new growth spurt in Maricopa. I can see us building as many as 2,000 homes in a year.

We’re currently around 1,000 a year.

As you know, we’ve now adopted a new housing plan that allows for higher-density housing. One of the problems we have in Maricopa is we don’t have the circle-of-life housing stock for people. We don’t have the housing stock for those first families getting started, for those professional couples. We don’t have housing stock for when they begin to downsize, when children leave home, when they become empty nesters, when they lose a spouse and they’re by themselves. We don’t have assisted-living cen-

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19

CITY

SPEAK

REFLECT. RETHINK. RESPOND!

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

R I believe we need to build a response to anticipate the future, establish goals and build a plan of action.

eflect on Casa Grande’s rich history. It is named after the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, which is located in the city of Coolidge. Coolidge was founded in 1925 and incorporated in 1945. I hate to remind Coolidge that the city of Casa Grande was founded in 1879 and incorporated in 1915, we were the city of Casa Grande before Coolidge was Coolidge.

Today, we are a city of 55,000 full-time and 25,000 winter residents, or approximately 80,000 residents during our fall/winter/spring months. The city limits include 110.2 square miles, an elevation of 1,398 feet, and we are located between Phoenix and Tucson at the junction of I-10, I-8 and the Union Pacific Railway.

RETHINKING OUR WAY OF DOING BUSINESS We are rethinking our processes, our revenue streams and our way of doing business. We need to rethink the way we have been doing business for the last 50 years.

Basic life needs may not change, but how we do things moving forward definitely is changing. Here’s how: • Education is critical for us to compete in the future, and we need to make sure our children and grandchildren have opportunities to succeed.

• Workforce development today will not look the same in 18 years. The World Economic Forum estimates that 65 percent of children born today will end up in jobs that don’t exist today.

• Transportation and infrastructure will need adapt to electric self-driving cars, fully automated warehouse/ manufacturing and a growing/changing demographic.

• Quality of life needs will continue to evolve as all the above factors take effect.

HOW WILL WE RESPOND? We will respond/Adapt by learning from our past, anticipating the future and preparing to take action.

Community Center

Neon Park

The city of Casa Grande’s vision is a good starting point: “Leverage current economic climate, new opportunities and our strong community to improve quality of life, civic pride and quality jobs. Casa Grande’s strategic location and strongly motivated city leadership will honor diversity and provide opportunities for all residents to be successful. By building a sustainable and attractive community we can create a place where people can safely live, work and play”.

The following goals and strategic action plans is directionally where I would like to see the city go. Some of it is already in the works (thanks to your council’s and city staff’s hard work), and others are in the planning stages. Some of these items are my thoughts and do not necessarily reflect the views of your entire council.

I believe we need to build a response to anticipate the future, establish goals and build a plan of action.

Community Marketing: • ULI (Urban Land Institute) downtown Main Street ideas and plan (March 2019) • Buy Local (on-going 2019) • Community Marketing Organization marketing business and community (begin 2019) • Blight removal (on-going) • Repurposing old, closed buildings (set meetings 2019) Quality of Life: • Neon Park (April 2019) • City park investments $8.6 million Carr McNatt Park and $2 million Dave White Regional Park (2019) • Casa Grande Peart Resource Center (opening March 2019) • Community Center (opening May 2019) • Re-introduce city of Casa Grande’s trail system plan (2019)

Continued on page 43...

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Casa Grande Main Street Proud to Participate in Arizona Gives Day

by Rina Rien, Director, Casa Grande Main Street

O

n April 2, Casa Grande Main Street will join Arizona Gives Day, along with hundreds of other nonprofits from around the state, to raise much-needed funds for future maintenance of the Casa Grande Neon Sign Park.

Through azgives.org, Arizonans will be able to support their favorite nonprofit(s) for 24 hours of virtual giving as the nonprofits strive for additional cash-incentive prizes by promoting and generating donations at various levels. Sponsored by FirstBank, this annual day of fundraising is a community-led effort to invest in our state.

Arizona Gives Day is a grassroots, statewide single day of giving that invites Arizonans to find their favorite causes and

donate day of or to schedule their donations in advance.

Hosted by the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits and Arizona Grantmakers Forum, Arizona Gives Day has raised $13.4 million for Arizona nonprofits since its founding in 2013.

This year’s Arizona Gives campaign is a partnership between Casa Grande Main Street and Casa Grande’s Historic Preservation Commission, celebrating the completion of the Casa Grande Neon Sign Park and establishing a planned-giving fund

to support future repairs and maintenance of the park and its iconic treasures.

Local businesses and community members, including APS, Casa Grande Dispatch and Cook E Jar, have already stepped up to sponsor the campaign and events. Here’s how you can support the campaign: • Bring an entourage to our Spaghetti Western Night on April 2 at 5:30 p.m. in the Main Street Patio/ Alley, where you’ll get a sneak preview of the park, and we’ll share our vision for the future.

• Donate an auction item for our Arizona Gives Day Event.

• Visit our campaign site and donate directly at azgives.org/cgmainstreet.

Be sure to consult your tax adviser about deducting your donation for the 2018 tax year.

More information may be found at azdor.gov/tax-credits.

Casa Grande Main Street is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization advocating downtown revitalization and historic preservation.

Visit our website at cgmainstreet. org for more information on our mission, memberships and upcoming events.

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

Historic Downtown…

Experience the Difference

110 W. 2nd St., Casa Grande 520-836-8744 www.cgmainstreet.org

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21

ELOY, ARIZONA THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR ELOY’S ECONOMIC GROWTH

by Joel G. Belloc, Mayor, City of Eloy

A Nikola will need roughly 2,000 employees at many different skill levels.

lthough it has been announced previously, I thought it might be a good time to talk about the potential effect Nikola Motors could have on Eloy. Nikola Motors builds hydrogen/electric-powered semi-trucks and four-wheelers and has announced it is building a $1 billion facility in our neighboring community of Coolidge.

Fortunately for Eloy, the proposed site is at the southern-most portion of Coolidge, fronting on Houser Road on our northern boundary. This site is approximately 4 miles from I-10 to the south and the same distance from downtown Eloy to the west.

Its proximity could attract various suppliers, new restaurants, hotels and other businesses to Eloy.

Nikola will need roughly 2,000 employees at many different skill levels. These workers will be engaged in building the newest generation of Class 8, heavy commercial trucks. Work on the facility is expected to begin this calendar year. The overall impact from this manufacturer is estimated at $1.2 billion annually. Congratulations to Coolidge for attracting Nikola, and please join me in welcoming Nikola to the area.

NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR TEAM To better serve Eloy’s current and future residents and businesses, I am proud to announce two new hires, Tammy Valadez Paz and Carlos Gutierrez. Tammy came to Eloy from Buckeye and will serve as our project engineer. Carlos is the new code compliance officer. He is an Eloy native and came to the community development department from the police department where he served as a communications technician. Eloy continues to attract some great folks to our team.

City Hall Lobby

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City Council Chambers ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS MOVING FORWARD We have also been aggressively completing an Eloy strategic plan for economic development. In conjunction with our consulting firm, ESI Corporation, several work sessions have been held with community leaders, as well as the mayor and city council. An economic development advisory committee was formed and a roundtable session was held with area manufacturers and the real-estate/development community.

The primary goal is to develop specific strategies to guide Eloy’s efforts in attracting new employers and expanding the number of existing employers, as well as encourage investment in the community. This strategic plan, which will include ways to measure that success, is expected to be completed in May 2019 for discussion and consideration.

In that regard and during this same time frame, a final design is expected to be presented to the council to enhance the commercial buildings along both sides of Main Street (from Frontier to 7th Street). Working with the architectural firm of Blank Studios, the city intends to upgrade the facades to add unique architectural elements and new lighting to enhance visitation, attract new retailers, investors and local small businesses. Main Street is our front door, and we want to make a good first, second and third impression.

NEW CITY HALL That leads me to the final topic, the new Eloy City Hall. It has been great to watch this project come to fruition in our downtown. To witness the design process, construction and finally moving in has been one of the highlights of my public service career. This facility will provide enhanced services to our residents, a centralized location to conduct the city’s business and a long-term commitment to our downtown. I cordially invite you to visit Eloy’s newest landmark.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2018 2019

10326 W. Appaloosa Trail - Casa Grande $450,000

This dramatic home is placed on a 1/2 acre lot in beautiful Chaparral Estates.Here is your opportunity to enjoy a custom country home just minutes from the city with panoramic views of the mountains and twinkling city lights.The grand entry sets the tone for the rest of the home. Every room is spacious and bathed with natural light.There is room for all in this 4 BD, plus office 3 BA home with 3,073 SF. The kitchen has abundant custom cabinets and counter space, a pantry, gas cook top and a breakfast island.The master suite is just huge and features a separate shower & jetted tub, double vanities, walk-in closet and French doors to the patios. The side entry 3 garage is over height. and there is also an RV gate and parking.

KAY KERBY SARAH CAMPBELL

520.560.0769

520.424.6577

kay_sarah@coldwellbanker.com 520.423.8250 | ROXsells.com Š2018 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.

Tourism’s Impact on Pinal County is Impressive

by Tim Kanavel, Program Manager, Pinal County Economic Development

N

ewly released numbers from the Arizona Department of Tourism show that tourists spent over $500 million in Pinal County in 2017. A study conducted by Dean Runyan Associates highlights tourism dollars spent in Arizona and breaks them down by county. Pinal County’s economy realized $691.5 million in tourism-related spending.

“I’m very impressed with these statistics,” says Board of Supervisors Chairman Mike Goodman. “I know that tourism is a big contributor to our economy, and these numbers are a welcome sight to anyone who is employed in the industry.”

Tourism and Jobs The study shows that tourism accounts for 6,900 jobs in the county. The vast majority of those come from the accommodation and food service industry (4,500). Arts, entertainment and recreation come in second at 1,400.

Pete Rios, Supervisor for District 1, which includes such tourist destinations as Biosphere 2, Casa Grande Ruins and the San Pe-

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GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

dro River Valley, says jobs created by tourism are needed, especially in the eastern section of the county.

“This is an area that is desperate for good-paying employment,” Rios says. “The effect of tourism in the area is something we are celebrating and something we can further promote to bring in even more travelers.”

Breaking down the actual spending in Pinal County, the study shows that retail, along with food and beverage services, brought in the majority of dollars to the county. Food and beverage services are listed at $236.3 million while retail spending comes in at $120.7 million. Accommodations only accounted for 10 percent of the $617.4 million spent here.

Becoming a Destination I love seeing these numbers; we’ve gone from a total impact of $222.2 million in 1998 to over $690 million. But this study shows we

need to focus more on making Pinal County a destination rather than a place where you visit for a day or so.

There are a few things holding us back.

First, people fly into either Phoenix or Tucson. These two cities have a lot of attractions known around the world. The idea is to further outreach to areas where these tourists are coming from and letting them know about Pinal County’s state parks, outdoor activities and great golf courses.

We like to say around the office that Pinal County is a “get off your butt” type of county. We may not have a Disneyland, we may not have a professional sports team, but we have something a lot better to offer — Mother Nature.

Need for Accommodations Another item holding us back is the lack of hotels that serve visitors. We have some great natural attractions, and while that makes this area a perfect place to camp, we need to realize there are those who want a place like a Hilton or Marriott to lay their heads for the night.

I think anyone in the hotel sector looking at these numbers will see there is a need for their services here, and we’ll be happy to have them. The need is here and will be much more once the Attesa motorsports complex begins its operations.

Another thing that helps bring visitors to Pinal County is our friendly smiles and attitudes. More than once I have been told that we are some of the nicest folks that visitors meet along their journeys. That is free and pays big dividends to those who don’t want to fight big-city traffic.

To see the numbers from Dean Runyan Associates log onto deanrunyan.com/AZTravelImpacts/AZTravelImpacts.html.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

PINAL COUNTY

AT A G L A N C E Poverty Level Arizona 14.9%

Pinal County 12.6% THE LOWEST IN THE STATE!

Mean Commute Time:

445,125 2010 Census 375,768 INCREASE of over 15% since 2010

31 Minutes

Land Area: 5,635 square miles

Education

(Connecticut is 5,543 square miles)

• Both Lucid Motors and Attesa announced construction start dates for 2019 – Lucid in the April timeframe and Attesa in September timeframe

51,190

$

Median Household Income

• In 2017, Pinal County realized nearly $700 million in tourism dollars spent • In 2017, Pinal County realized nearly $2.6 Billion in agricultural related sales and business • In 2017, Pinal County was in the Top 2% of all US counties and county equivalents in agriculture related sales

High School Graduate or Higher

84.9% Pinal County is experiencing a current growth rate of 3.0%, HIGHEST in the State and one of the highest in the nation.

Gaining about 13,500 new residents or more each year.

Employment by Sector – August 2018 Total Nonfarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59,450 Total Private. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39,550 Goods Producing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,275 • Mining and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,425 • Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,850 Service-Providing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52,175 • Trade, Transportation and Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,475 • Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525 • Financial Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,425

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

• • • •

Professional and Business Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,125 Education and Health Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,075 Leisure and Hospitality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,925 Other Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,725

Government. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19,900 • Federal Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,575 • State and Local Government. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18,325

Sources: Arizona Department of Administration (ADOA), December 21, 2018, US Census, Arizona Regional MLS, laborstats.az.gov

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COOLIDGE, ARIZONA COOLIDGE LEADS THE WAY WITH PARK AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

by Mayor Jon Thompson, City of Coolidge

I

’d like to take the opportunity this month to focus on Coolidge’s wonderful parks and recreational activities. Our Parks and Recreation Department offers a host of classes and sports that have become a center point of the community.

Our investment in our parks is one the city council and I feel is very important.

I’m very proud of our Parks and Recreation Department offering so many choices for our residents throughout the year.

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OUR CITY PARKS There are 10 parks located across the city. Each one has a unique look and landscape to attract different activities. One may offer a playground while the other offers residents and visitors a chance to take in a workout on a specially designed path. One of the largest parks sits within the downtown area.

San Carlos Park is available for games of football toss and features a playground for the little ones. It’s also the venue for Coolidge Days and Coolidge Cotton Days held in October and March.

Kenilworth Sports Complex is perhaps the largest of our parks. Opened in 2007, it was designed and built as a multiuse facility where soccer, baseball, softball and many additional sports are played. Numerous regional Little League games are played at this complex as it offers a well-maintained and safe space for children to enjoy.

I’m also excited to announce a new park scheduled to be constructed in February. Landmark Ranch Park will offer wide-open spaces for play and a state-ofthe-art playground designed by a top playground company. The park will complement our newer subdivisions on the north side of the city and offer res-

idents a new place to play. The playground will also feature a sun canopy to allow year-round availability.

CLASSES AND SPORTS The recreation department offers many classes and sports throughout the year. Some of these include softball, basketball, flag football, volleyball, soccer, t-ball, kickball and even pickleball. In addition to the sports programs, residents and visitors can take part in our many summer classes. Coolidge also has one of the largest swimming pools in the county enjoyed by the whole community each summer. Swim classes and competitive swimming make our city one of the best places to choose an activity all year long.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Finally, I’d like to touch on our kids programs held after school and during the summer break.

C.A.S.P.E.R. (Coolidge After School Program for Education and Recreation) offers a planned and well-supervised after school program. It is for all children currently attending kindergarten through sixth grade and offers a variety of activities helping kids to achieve developmental goals. During the summer months, our Kids Kamp program offers a wide range of fun. Kids Kamp is a great way for children ages 5 to 12 to make new friends and enjoy the summer break with a host of activities.

I’m very proud of our Parks and Recreation Department offering so many choices for our residents throughout the year. The council and I receive many praises for the various sports and classes available to Coolidge residents. I encourage those in the surrounding communities to have a look at the sports and class offerings we provide. I think you’ll be impressed with the great choices. You can learn more at coolidgeaz.com/parks.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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SUPERIOR, ARIZONA SUPERIOR OFFERS A HOST OF ACTIVITIES FOR WELLNESS AND FUN GREETINGS FROM SUPERIOR, ARIZONA!

by Mila Besich, Mayor, Town of Superior

Wellness is not just about our physical health; it also is about our personal happiness and life fulfillment.

S

uperior is a very special place to live, visit and partake of its abundant health and wellness offerings. First and foremost, Superior’s environment exudes health. We like to say we are above the smog and below the snow.

The pristine Tonto National Forest surrounds Superior, and we are cradled by the majestic Picket Post and Apache Leap mountains. This creates ample opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding and much more.

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum, one of Arizona’s many state parks, is located near Superior and features miles of walking paths as well as education on arid desert plants. Members of the arboretum are invited to attend many wellness classes, including yoga, tai chi and meditation inside the park. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a treasure trove of wellness.

In a small rural community, you will often find within the doors of one establishment many different business enterprises. At our local health and wellness store Sole to Soul Awakenings in downtown Superior, several services are available from facials and skin care to reflexology, massage and classes on creating vision boards, drum making and other wellness courses.

In addition, at many of our locally owned stores, you can purchase essential oils, salt rock lamps and other personal wellness items and accessories. Our local gym Superior Fitness has made space and time available for yoga sessions.

Residents of Superior have access to quality health

care at the Cobre Valley Clinic located in our community, and we are only 20 minutes away from the Cobre Valley Regional Hospital in Globe where acute-care health services are available. The local Superior clinic can accommodate many routine health services, including laboratory and pharmacy services along with general health care and specialty services.

Wellness is not just about our physical health; it also is about our personal happiness and life fulfillment.

What I love most about our precious community is that you can always find a friend and something meaningful to do. Our residents and organizations are generous with their time and resources, which leads to greater life fulfillment. We believe that everyone can be “Superior” in their own way.

Local musicians gather to play at Superior’s Second Fridays, local artists connect to share their techniques — there are countless ways to connect within our community. You can meet up with friendly people through our local organizations such as the Superior Chamber of Commerce, Optimist Club, Rotary or Red Bear Outfitters. It is not uncommon to find a gathering of people at a local restaurant, and it always seems the tables just get longer as more people join the party.

If you have not yet visited Superior, I encourage you to do so soon because you most assuredly will find your best wellness moments here in our town.

Looking forward to welcoming you to Superior in the very near future!

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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29

How Our Chamber of Commerce Keeps the City United

by Helen Neuharth, President & CEO, Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce

A

30

healthy community is more than just the people who live in it. There needs to be a balance of education, housing, health-care services, city services, communication, public participation and a variety of partnerships with organizations in the community.

In my opinion, Casa Grande is a healthy community. That doesn’t mean every resident is healthy or businesses don’t continue to struggle with the onslaught of consumers buying online, but overall our community has survived many financial fluctuations in the 20th and the 21st centuries.

It is through partnerships, open communication and the support of the business community that Casa Grande continues to remain relevant. Over the years we have been and can continue to be proud of our citizens, our city, county and state elected officials and those employees as well as the many hundreds of volunteers that help support a vast pool of community-based organizations.

in initiating and strengthening partnerships between its businesses, educational institutions, government and workforce. Our excellent chamber leadership has surveyed and listened to chamber members in order to develop programs — marketing and trusted networking services that best meet the needs of the ever-changing landscape of commerce.

Casa Grande’s Growth

The Chamber’s Role

I arrived in Casa Grande in August 1991 when the population was less than 18,000 and membership in the Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce was hovering around 200. As of the first of 2019, Casa Grande boasts a year-round population of 56,000 and membership in the chamber is more than 480 businesses.

Throughout the past 27½ years, and a population increase of more than 300 percent, the chamber has strived and succeeded

Visitors to the chamber office often ask what a chamber of commerce does. The easy answer is that it provides marketing, networking and informational tools and resources to its members to help them grow their businesses. In other words, we have our finger on the pulse of the community and play an integral part of keeping it healthy.

I would say that’s accurate for chambers, in general, but each chamber evolves with its community and its businesses. For instance,

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

Casa Grande is a growing, progressive community that adapts to change but still retains the ambiance of a small town. Community programs, service organizations, friends, colleagues, events and basically, fun, all blend and make newcomers and longtime residents feel at home.

Moving On That’s why, when I retire as President/CEO of the chamber on March 29, 2019, I am staying in Casa Grande. I love it here — so many great memories! And I’m looking forward to an interesting and more relaxing future. The chamber is in excellent hands. Our board of directors always sets the course of action that will benefit the chamber, businesses and the community.

Stay healthy, my friends! I’ll see you around town, but this time I will be participating in some community events instead of organizing them, and as always, I’ll be shopping local.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Economy • Finance • Business

How to Restore Your Civil Rights

by James Sena, Criminal Attorney

F

elony criminal convictions, in addition to prison and fines, can haunt offenders for the rest of their lives. This can happen in several ways, including loss of voting rights, travel restrictions, employment restrictions, jury service restrictions, public benefit restrictions, restrictions against holding certain public offices, parental benefit restrictions, professional/social stigma and a lifetime loss of the right to possess firearms. However, there are steps that can be taken to restore certain rights.

Conviction Set-Asides and Rights Restoration Arizona law permits different classes of offenders to petition the courts at different times for conviction setasides and for rights restoration while barring certain offenders from ever having their rights restored.

The success of such petitions often hinges on the nature and number of the original offense(s), the length of time that has passed since the offense(s) occurred, and the personal situations of the offenders since their convictions. Offenders are not guaranteed forgiveness under the law, but because of the Arizona Legislature’s creation of clear pathways to rights restoration, many Arizona offenders who have moved beyond their past transgressions can again enjoy their full civil rights as American citizens.

In Arizona, there is no such thing as true expungement (or erasing) of a conviction. In rare cases, it is possible to expunge a police report that did not result in a conviction. But a conviction that has been set aside will al-

ways show up on a background check.

However, following a set-aside, that same check may show “judgment of guilt set aside” instead of “guilty.”

That formal expression of the state’s forgiveness can sometimes convince prospective employers not to hold such incidents against job applicants and to permit people to pass a background check they would otherwise fail. It can also be helpful to have even misdemeanor crimes set aside, even where no rights are in need of restoration.

Firearm Restrictions In Arizona, complete firearm restrictions are imposed against all convicted felons. Additionally, people convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses are barred from possessing firearms, as are people who have received certain mental health judgments and people using marijuana — even if they have a valid

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

state medical marijuana card or live in a state where recreational marijuana is permissible under state law.

The firearm rights restrictions come out of the Gun Control Act of 1968 and its subsequent amendments.

That federal law often relies on interpretations of state law, state convictions and state determinations for enforcement, which result in its uneven and unfair application across the country. For example, if a person loses his or her right to bear arms in California, in most cases very little can be done to restore it.

In Arizona, however, it is at least possible, in most circumstances, to request that a judge set aside a state conviction and restore the offender’s right to bear arms. At the same time, offenders can often regain their right to vote and begin applying for jobs that, due to the conviction, were previously unavailable to them.

The Legal Process If you want to go hunting or shooting with your friends and family, or you want the right to have your opinions hold weight at the ballot box, and you have managed to avoid recent legal troubles, you may be a good candidate for rights restoration.

In Arizona, restoration of your civil rights is a relatively simple petition process and court appearances are unlikely. Consequently, it is more affordable than most legal services, and the prospects of success are often greater than you may think.

If you want to go hunting or shooting with your friends and family, or you want the right to have your opinions hold weight at the ballot box, and you have managed to avoid recent legal troubles, you may be a good candidate for rights restoration.

James Sena is a criminal attorney at Fitzgibbons Law Offices PLC in Casa Grande 520-426-3824.

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CAC Revises High School Program Opportunities

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

C

entral Arizona College (CAC) recently revised its high school program opportunities to provide the best experience for Pinal County high school students. In prior years, the college offered a First Step program during the summer and an Early College program each fall and spring semester.

With the newest changes, these two programs have been combined and are now officially named the Early College program.

CAC will continue to provide a quality opportunity to access college-level course work for Pinal County high school students through the Early College program. Students will have access to the five-credit tuition waiver beginning the summer after the completion of their sophomore year of high school through the summer after their senior year. The admissions and enrollment process for this programming will remain the same with an online application form to be available in the future.

To ensure students are working on early college completion and advancing their college goal attainment, they will be required to take college-level courses. Additionally, participants must meet CAC’s GPA component for all terms as opposed to just the fall and spring semesters. The migration of the summer First Step program to the Early College program will be phased in as CAC moves into

Sons of the Pioneers

the 2019 summer session.

CAC is dedicated to the long-term sustainability of CAC’s high school programs. The Early College programming change was implemented to provide a more optimal experience for students and families of Pinal County.

Key factors in combining the programs included, access to programming for college-ready students, the ability to increase accountability among participants and limiting continued confusion that exists among all stakeholders.

For additional information about the Early College program, please visit centralaz.edu/earlycollege, or contact Hazel Rossi at earlycollege@centralaz.edu.

Monday, Mar. 18 at 7 pm | $22 Signal Peak Campus, Pence Center

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • BIZ!

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

MAC1218-1460765

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33

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Casa Grande Valley 2018 Youth of the Year, Kymani Bledsoe

Organizations Funded to Date:

34

•

AZ FFA Foundation

•

Big Shots 4H

•

Boys & Girls Club

•

Casa Grande Friends of the Arts

•

Casa Grande Main Street

•

Casa Grande Valley Historical Society

•

Central Arizona Fair Association

•

Central Pinal Lions Foundation

•

Delta Research and Educational Foundation

•

John T. Pagel Scholarship Fund

•

Maricopa Football Boosters

•

Natural Resource Education Center

•

Pinal County 4H

•

Pinal County Jr. Livestock (Auction)

•

Pinal County Jr. Livestock Committee

•

Pinal Hispanic Council

•

Pinal/Gila Community Child Services

•

Ride for the Warrior

•

Seeds of Hope

•

The Central Arizona College Foundation

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • BIZ!

Pinal 40 Gala Reception & Dinner T

he 2019 Pinal 40 Gala Reception & Dinner is coming May 4th, to Harrah’s Ak-Chin Events Center Ballroom. Each year Pinal 40 is able to provide scholarships and grants within the community thanks to the donations and funds from events such as the Pinal 40 Charity Golf Classic, the Pinal 40 St. Paddy’s Day Party and the upcoming Pinal 40 Gala Reception & Dinner.

This year’s reception and dinner will be a special treat featuring Master of Ceremonies and Comedian, Mark Cordes, Live Tribute Artist, Randall Hedden, & the featured entertainment, comedian & voice actor, “Larry The Cable Guy”. A “Live” auction will take place during dinner as well as the drawing of the Raffle Grand Prize Winner.

2018 Pinal 40 Gala Reception & Dinner, the Binghams

Event tickets, sponsorship packages and raffle tickets are currently available for purchase. Pinal 40 invites you to participate by signing up at pinal40.org/gala

Formed in 2014, Pinal 40 is a fraternity of community members organized with the primary objective of promoting Pinal County, its youth as well as farming and agriculture related businesses. Philanthropically, Pinal 40 and its membership focus on providing support and funding for youth and education through agribusiness related scholarships and support of local charities.

Pinal 40 is run by an all-volunteer board with all profits benefiting the community via Agricultural Scholarships, Boys and Girls Clubs, FFA, 4-H, and other Charitable Youth Organizations. Since inception, nearly $700,000 has been distributed to the community including over $190,000 in individual scholarship awards.

Leona Kakar, 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

featuring: Award winning comedian & voice actor,

“Larry the Cable Guy”

2019 Pinal 40, Inc. Gala Reception & Dinner

Saturday, May 4th

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Events Center Grand Ballroom 15406 N. Maricopa Rd., Maricopa Arizona 85139

* 5:00 - 6:30 PM: Registration and Cocktail Reception * 6:30 PM: Dinner and Entertainment * Pinal 40 Life Achievement Award winner presentation * Incredible Live & Silent Auctions

Featured Entertainment: Tickets are $300/person, all inclusive + Sponsorship packages available Order your tickets today!

“Live Tribute Artist”

Visit

Randall Hedden

pinal40.org/gala cocktail attire

Master of Ceremonies,

Comedian Mark Cordes

***Special Harrah’s Ak-Chin Room Package Available*** For more information, please visit pinal40.org/gala, or contact David C. Vermillion, Event Director

C: 602.628.5777 O: 480-986-9238 E: Dvermillion4@q.com

pinal40.org/gala

Special Section:

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Losing Weight is Work!

Pinal County’s Health Fast Facts

I

About Our Community:

t takes time and effort to be successful in reaching your goal. The 2019 City of Maricopa Weight Loss Challenge encouraged residents to succeed by offering support, encouragement and tips along the way. Recipes and meal tips were shared on their Facebook page. Pictured are some of the 2018 Weight Loss Challenge participants.

•

18.6% of the population is 65 and older*

•

21.9% of children live below the federal poverty level*

Life Expectancy:

2019 Challenge Stats: •

198 Starting Participants

•

98 Final Weigh-in Participants

•

Tier 1 (1-5% Bodyweight Lost) - 71

•

Tier 2 (5.1-10% Bodyweight Lost) - 24

•

Tier 3 (10.1-15% Bodyweight Lost) - 1

•

705 Pounds Lost in 30 Days

•

Average weight lost 10 lbs. for people who completed finishing weigh-in

•

Average body weight lost was 3.50%

Photos by: Victor Moreno Photography

•

80.17 years for men and women

County Strengths: •

Dedicated community partners

•

Extensive outdoor, nature-based recreation opportunities that promote physical activity

•

Lower rates of death from heart disease, cancer and accidents than Arizona as a whole**

•

For the past five years, Pinal has ranked within the top 4 of Arizona’s 15 counties***

Most Pressing Local Health Issues: 1. Physical activity and nutrition — Pinal residents have a higher rate of deaths due to diabetes (27 deaths per 100,000 population) than Arizona as a whole (24 deaths per 100,000 population)** 2. Substance misuse and dependency 3. Mental health

Community Needs: •

Improve recreation infrastructure and implement healthy food policies in schools

•

Increase substance abuse treatment services and prevention

•

Promote mental health screening and linkage to care

Information provided by: * American Community Survey, 2017 ** Arizona Department of Health Services, 2016 ***countyhealthrankings.org, 2016

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

37

Special Section: Medical, Health & Wellness

Tax Credits

Doing Good For Others While Also Helping Yourself

by Renee Louzon-Benn, Director of Community Outreach, Sun Life Family Health Center Inc.

D

id you know that Arizona tax law provides a credit for taxpayers who make contributions to qualifying charitable organizations? Did you know you could be making contributions to organizations like Sun Life Family Health Center, while also reducing your state tax liability?

According to the Arizona Department of Revenue (AZDOR), taxpayers filing as “single” and “head of household” status may claim a maximum credit of $400. Taxpayers filing as “married filing separate” may claim a maximum credit of $400. Taxpayers that file as “married filing joint” may claim a maximum credit of $800.

Tax Deduction? Tax Credit?

What’s the difference?

According to the IRS, tax credits and tax deductions can help reduce your overall income tax liability. While you might want to take advantage of as many of these as possible, it’s important to know that tax deductions and tax credits are not the same thing.

Tax deductions lower your taxable income, and they are equal to the percentage of your marginal tax bracket. For instance, if you are in the 25-percent tax bracket, an $800 deduction saves you $200 in tax (0.25 x $800 = $200). On the other hand, tax credits can help reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar. However they cannot reduce your income tax liability to less than zero. In other words, your gross income tax liability is the amount you are responsible for paying before any credits are applied.

This means that an $800 tax credit saves you $800 in taxes.

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A tax credit is always worth more than a dollar-equivalent tax deduction, because deductions are calculated using percentages.

To get a better idea of how tax credits work and whether or not you qualify, you need to know what is available to taxpayers in your situation, such as your filing status, age, employment and education. It is important to remember that just because you qualify for one type of tax credit does not mean that you qualify for the rest (IRS.gov).

Talk to your tax preparer to see if you qualify and might want to take advantage of the tax credit for charitable organizations.

How a Charitable Organization Qualifies A qualifying charitable organization is a charity that meets all of the following provisions: • Is exempt from federal income taxes under Section a 501(c)(3) or is a designated community action agency that receives community services block grant program monies pursuant to 42 U.S. Code Section 9901.

• Provides services that meet immediate basic needs.

• Serves Arizona residents who receive temporary assistance for needy families (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) benefits, who are low-income residents whose household income is less than 150 percent of the federal poverty level or who have chronically ill or physically disabled children.

• Spends at least 50 percent of its budget on qualified services to qualified Arizona residents.

• Affirms that it will continue spending at least 50 percent of its budget on qualified services to qualified Arizona residents.

A charity must apply for and meet all requirements of the law to be considered a qualifying charitable organization. Approved charities’ names are listed on the Department of Revenue’s website.

How Tax Credits Help Others At nonprofit organizations like Sun Life Family Health Center, every dollar counts. Health centers face the same financial pressures private health-care practices experience. Health centers often offer preventative programs for their patients that are not fully reimbursed by insurance, such as diabetes education, integrated oral health, integrated behavioral health and integrated clinical pharmacy services.

When you make a donation to Sun Life, you’re helping take care of your neighbors and improving the health of your community.

Healthy communities are prosperous communities. By making a donation to a charitable organization, you are choosing where your tax dollars go and helping to impact your community. So this year, please do good, feel good and help yourself.

To learn more about the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit, and qualifying charitable organizations, log on to azdor.gov/tax-credits/contributionsqcos-and-qfcos.

To learn more about Sun Life Family Health Center or to make an online donation, visit sunlifefamilyhealth.org.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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Special Section: Medical, Health & Wellness

Celebrate Spring with Two Great Outdoor Events

by Jennifer Brown, Director of Administrative Services, City Manager’s Office

S

pring is in the air, warm weather is on its way, and the City of Maricopa is ready to usher in the new season with the 15th annual Salsa Festival, as well as the 2019 Copa Color Fun Run and Walk.

The Salsa Festival will see the return of such favorite activities as the chili pepper eating contest, beer garden and Little Pepper Kids Zone. The event will also feature live entertainment, a wide range of food options and games and, of course, salsa.

Be part of this great tradition and come to Copper Sky Regional Park on Saturday,

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March 23 from 2 to 8 p.m. to enjoy the free event.

And just in case you eat a bit too much salsa, the City of Maricopa is providing a great way to burn off those calories with the 2019 Copa Color Fun Run and Walk. This 5K run or 1-mile walk will take place on Saturday, April 6 at Copper Sky Regional Park.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the race taking place from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Each participant will get an individual color packet to throw at the start of the race, a Copa Color Run bandana, race bib and

pictures (downloadable for free) for participating. This year the event will feature music, food trucks and fun for the whole family. So dust off that box of workout gear you’ve hidden since the 80s and wear those high socks with pride, because this year’s theme is the 80s, and the best dressed will win the Best 80s Workout Costume Contest and prizes!

For more information on both events, as well as registration for the Copa Color Fun Run and Walk, log on to the City of Maricopa’s website at maricopa-az.gov.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Special Section: Medical, Health & Wellness

Annual Raffle Provides Funding for Local Health Organizations The Casa Grande Community Hospital Foundation relies on the generous community partners who support our many events. They would not be able to make a difference without these local champions.

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T

he Casa Grande Community Hospital Foundation has had the fortune and privilege of receiving support from local businesses and organizations. One of the ways this support is received is through event sponsorships and donations. This year, Henry & Horne, LLC and J. Warren Funeral Services are generously donating the $5,000 grand prize for the annual Regional Riches Raffle.

This event takes place Friday, April 5, at J. Warren Memory Garden, 525 N. Peart Road. Some of the great prizes include: $5,000, vacations, electronics, sporting event tickets, gift cards and baskets, and more.

All prizes are valued at a minimum of $75, and tickets are available for purchase at $50 each. For every prize donated, only four tickets are sold. Anyone interested in donating a prize, sponsoring a prize or would like to buy a ticket please call (520) 381-6541. All donors and sponsors are recognized at the event.

Proceeds from this event benefit community health, including med-

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ically underserved patients at the Breast Center at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center. The center provides a compassionate environment that coordinates, educates and manages all breast-related health issues.

The Casa Grande Community Hospital Foundation is supported by local business partners and would not be able to achieve all it does within the community without its generosity. When the community and the foundation work together, it is amazing to see what they accomplish.

The Casa Grande Community Hospital Foundation helps improve the quality of life for the greater Casa Grande community by developing supportive relationships to sustain and enhance the caring mission for Banner Casa Grande Medical Center. The Foundation is a not-for-profit, charitable 501©(3) that promotes philanthropy in the community to support new facilities and equipment, prevention education, community outreach and charity care at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center. The foundation’s good stewardship of

charitable gifts allows the hospital to continue to provide quality health care to our community.

Banner Casa Grande Medical Center is a full-service community hospital providing comprehensive quality care to the Casa Grande Valley as well as the surrounding communities of western Pinal County.

The hospital offers a variety of medical specialties including cardiology, gastroenterology, gynecology, neurology, oncology, psychiatry, urology, nephrology and a comprehensive wound center. Banner Casa Grande Medical Center is part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health-care system with 28 acute-care hospitals in six states.

For more information, visit BannerHealth.com/casagrande.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

CITY

SPEAK I believe that by planning and setting goals we can bring together public and private sector industry “thought leaders.”

REFLECT. RETHINK. RESPOND! (continued from page 20)

Education & Workforce Development: • CAC (Central Arizona College) building programs for local industry training (on-going) • Achieve Pinal plans to address achieving 60 education Progress Meter goals (on-going through 2030) • Internships at the city and through local industry (beginning 2019) • Build/locate a place to house a science and technology center in Casa Grande (2020)

Infrastructure: • I-10 Widening Coalition (beginning 2019) • Eloy, Stanfield, Maricopa water basin study (complete by 2021) • City of Casa Grande water plan (2019) • Airport plan (2019) • PRTA (Pinal Regional Transportation Authority) finalized and out of court (2020) • Planning Department Automation (complete in 2019) • Impact fee changes (implemented May 2019)

Fiscal Responsibility: • Flat budget plan (2019/20) • Evaluate privatization options (on-going) • Revenue options (on-going) Reflect, Rethink and Respond was the theme at this year’s Urban Land Institute 14th annual Trends Day held Jan. 25. I believe that by planning and setting goals we can bring together public and private sector industry “thought leaders,” and in a neutral environment advance the city of Casa Grande’s competitive edge to build a thriving community. Casa Grande!

Downtown Casa Grande

Dick and Mitchell Dental is now

Mitchell and Crosby Dental

Dick & Mitchell Dental is happy announce the addition of our new Dentist, Dr. David Crosby and his family to our team. Like all of our staff and doctors, Dr. Crosby and his family live right here in Casa Grande.

We are excited for Dr. Dick and his decision to retire after 36 years of serving our wonderful community. Thank you Dr. Mike! You are amazing!

We wish you well on your new adventures!

Mitchell & Crosby Dental 520-836-7111 Services Provided by an Arizona Licensed General Dentist

(520) 836-7111

721 N Olive Ave. • Casa Grande, AZ 85122

www.dickandmitchelldds.com SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

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Special Section: Medical, Health & Wellness

Play Healthy! Encouraging Student Athlete Success

by Breanna Boland, Executive Director ACPP II, Casa Grande Alliance

A

s parents and community members, we put time and effort into helping our youth be successful in life. One way we do this is by encouraging our children to participate in extracurricular activities, such as school sports and community sports leagues.

Participation in sports provides youth an opportunity to grow mentally and physically.

Some of the benefits of participating include learning to work well with others, building self-confidence, enhancing communication skills, discovering how to set and achieve goals, relieving stress, improving physical and mental health, and the list could go on and on.

Sports and Substance Abuse

It’s important for parents to understand that a youth’s participation in sports does not make a child immune from substance use. According to Steve Pasierb, President and CEO of The Partnership at Drugfree.org, “Sports can be a positive protective factor in a young person’s life because of all those great things — structure, goal setting, fair play and achievement, but it’s not a silver bullet.”

Studies indicate there is a link between youth who play sports and substance use.

A review of 17 studies, all but one taking place in the U.S., indicate that alcohol use was greater among students who engage in sports. Studies also found that participation in sports was associated with less illegal drug use other than marijuana. The association with marijuana use wasn’t clear.2 Substance use can lead to substance abuse, and it can happen to anyone.

Pressure to Perform

Two common misperceptions are that youth involved in sports don’t have time to use alcohol or drugs, and being an athlete and using drugs or alcohol doesn’t go together because athletes are health conscious. In actuality, some factors make student athletes more prone to substance use then their nonathletic peers.

Being a student athlete can be tough and even stressful at times. Think about it, student athletes have to perform at school, at practice, at games and at home. Some of the reasons why student athletes turn to alcohol and drugs are to deal with the pressure to perform well in school and in sports, enhance performance, handle injuries, and often to self-medicate to relieve physical pain.4 In Pinal County, one third of our youth say they use alcohol or drugs to help relieve stress from school, parents and family.1 As a parent, coach or caring adult in the community, it is crucial to understand how stress presents itself in youth and how to help them relieve stress without turning to alcohol or drugs.

Dealing with Stress

Stress can manifest physically (headaches, stomach aches, sweaty palms), emotionally (anger, frustrations, fear, sadness), behaviorally (saying something mean, blowing up at someone), and personally (self-isolation, feelings of being unwanted).3 Participation in physical activity is one way to relieve stress; but if that is already contributing to a child’s stress level, it is essential to help them find some

You are cordially invited to NOT attend the 8th Annual Casa Grande Alliance Phantom Ball The Phantom Ball is a non-event, so… don’t get a haircut, rent a limo or buy an outfit - don’t even shave those legs!

Go about your day and please do not attend our non-event!

Date: April 1, 2019 Location: Nowhere Time: Whenever

Go to www.CasaGrandeAlliance.org or call 520-836-5022 to purchase your non-tickets, nontables, or to become a non-event sponsor!

All proceeds are tax deductible and go to the Casa Grande Alliance, a local non-profit drug-abuse prevention agency.

Partnering for a safe and drug-free community 44

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alternative stress-relieving activities.

Some suggested ways of relieving stress, besides physical activity, include participating in arts and crafts, talking to friends, talking to parents, writing in a journal and meditating. Working with our student athletes to identify alternative ways to relieve stress will help them be more successful in sports and in life.3

Helping Students Cope

In addition, having conversations about the risks of substance use and setting clear no-use policies is another way to protect your student athlete from substance use.

Youth that have good relationships with their parents are two times less likely to use alcohol and three to four times less likely to use marijuana.5 One of the main reasons youth give for not using drugs or alcohol is they don’t want to disappoint a parent (or another caring adult) in their life.1 The Casa Grande Alliance has a free evidence-informed presentation for parents, coaches and student athletes called Play Healthy. The presentation focuses on what it takes to be a student athlete, including nutrition, water intake, sleep and abstaining from alcohol and drugs. Play Healthy includes suggestions on what parents can do to help their student athlete be successful.

For more information about Play Healthy, substance abuse prevention or how to have conversations about drugs and alcohol with your child, visit casagrandealliance.org, or call 520-836-5022.

1 Arizona Criminal Justice Commission-ACJC. (2018). Arizona Youth Survey. Retrieved from http://azcjc.gov/content/arizona-youth-survey 2 Cairney, J., et. al. (2014). Sport participation and alcohol and illicit drug use in adolescents and young adults: A systematic review of longitudinal studies.

Addictive Behaviors, 39(3), 497-506. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/ S0306460313003766 3 Molgaard, V., Kumpfer, K. & Fleming, E. (1993).

Iowa State University Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14.

4 Reardon, C. L., & Creado, S. (2014). Drug abuse in athletes. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, 5, 95–105. Retrieved fromhttp://doi.org/10.2147/SAR. S53784 5 The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. (2012). The Importance of Family Dinners VIII.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Youth are 25% of our population… ..and 100% of our future.

One caring adult can make a difference in a child’s life… be the one!

More than 70% of Pinal County teens who don’t use drugs or alcohol choose not to because they don’t want to disappoint their parents or another adult in their life. *

Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, Arizona Youth Survey, Pinal County 2018

Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Referrals 280 W. McMurray Blvd.

Casa Grande, Arizona 85122 520-836-5022 | CasaGrandeAlliance@gmail.com www.CasaGrandeAlliance.org Facebook: CGAlliance | Twitter: @CG_Alliance

Special Section: Medical, Health & Wellness

Managing Stress Can Be a Powerful Mood Booster

by Tiffanie Grady-Gillespie, Certified Physical Trainer, CPT, WickedFiTT

L

et me start this article with a question, “are you feeling stressed”?

What do work deadlines, traffic, paying bills, grocery lines, raising kids, and battling the bulge all have in common?

While there are many suitable answers, one of the top common denominators is -- say it with me out loud -- STRESS! In the United States, seven out of ten adults report feeling some type of stress daily.(1) Although people have different stressors, stress is something that once it starts to affect us, is often hard to stop. Stress points vary from individual to individual. Some people get stressed out over the littlest things, while others have a much higher breaking point.

Stress not only affects your brain, but with so many connections to your nerves, it can be felt throughout your body. We all know that stress can manifest in sadness, anger, exhaustion, mood swings, insomnia, poor eating, panic attacks, the list goes on and on. The key to helping to reduce or manage stress is linked with learning coping skills and raising the endorphins in your brain to coun-

teract these feelings. While exercise has been found to be a great outlet for stress, others turn to meditation and music as other ways to manage stress.

So what type of exercise would you say is your go to? Although any form of exercise that allows you to escape stress and relax will work, there are several forms that have been found to be especially helpful. We all have our personal opinion, which one is right for you?

Strength Training - Strength training can have an amazing impact on stress levels and mood. Just like any form of exercise, strength training provides feel-good hormones. Lifting is so popular because of the satisfaction you can get from really pushing yourself, and subsequently, feeling and seeing yourself get stronger. Stronger is such a great feeling.

Cardiovascular Exercise - Participating in aerobic activities such as running, spinning, or even dance, offers the benefit of an increased heart rate. Zumba is super popular. When your heart rate goes up, your body will release an increased level of endorphins, which are natural opiates that allow you to “feel good”. These activities help you feel better (1)

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both physically and mentally. HIIT workouts may be a good way to keep the workout quick and maximally effective for healthy weight management and time efficiency.

WickedFiTT students will tell you HITT training is a big favorite.

Yoga - This type of exercise is considered a mind-body exercise, which can strengthen your bodies internal response to stress.

Yoga often involves various poses with deep breathing, allowing you to learn to relax while strengthening your body and improving your posture. We are so fortunate to have some amazing Yoga instructors in our community.

I have worked closely with Deborah McEvoy for years, and she is truly inspiring.

PS ... A willingness to occasionally laugh at yourself can also serve as a good reminder to not take life so seriously. Laughter can do wonders for your decreasing your stress level.

Just sayin’.

Please contact us at WickedFiTT for any additional stress management information. Find us online at wickedfitt.com.

adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/stress/physical-activity-reduces-st THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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PINAL COUNTY PRESS A R IZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR A NDE • CO OLIDGE • ELOY • F LOR ENCE • M A R ICOPA

CONTINUED…

Lucid Motors Ready to Break Ground on Manufacturing Plant

L

ucid Motors, the California-based electric car startup, has secured a 500acre site in Casa Grande to build a manufacturing plant that will produce the company’s first electric car, the Lucid Air. “Construction of the plant will proceed in three phases with production of Lucid’s all-electric luxury sedan beginning in late 2020,” says Marketing Manager David Salguero. “We will likely break ground on phase one this spring. This presents a $240-million investment and the ability to build 20,000 vehicles a year.” Phase three will be complete in the mid-2020s.

According to Salguero, the total capital investment across all three phases is approximately $700 million.

In January 2017, after announcing the plant would be located in Casa Grande, Lucid Motors had some issues finding funding. But recently, it signed an investment agreement worth $1 billion that is putting the project back on track. According to the company, the factory is ex-

After a year at Pinal County Animal Care and Control, Bowie was adopted through social media.

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Production of Lucid Motors’ all-electric Air luxury sedan is slated to begin in late 2020.

pected to employ 2,000 full-time employees and manufacture up to 130,000 vehicles annually.

Lucid Motors has also proposed a new curriculum for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program at Central Arizona College. Graduates of the yearlong program would immediately be able to enter the ad-

vanced technology workforce.

“Since the proposal was made, we’ve seen a growth of the program by 1,300 percent,” says Kristen Benedict, Advanced Technology Division Chairwoman. “All the colleges on the Sun Corridor will be offering the same curriculum.”

The addition of the manufac-

turing plant could also cut down commute times for future employees who currently live in Casa Grande but travel to Phoenix or Tucson for work.

“I know it goes without saying, but this project will be a major boost to the Casa Grande economy,” says Casa Grande Mayor Craig McFarland.

ANIMAL SHELTER...cont. from page 14

the animal or we will have to humanely euthanize it,” Michael explains. “Most of the time, they come and get them, even the pit bulls.”

Michael says this has all been years in the making. “Social media is a big help with getting our animals out, as it reaches a broader audience than just here in Pinal County. We also have transported dogs to other states that may have a shortage of animals due to weather or just not having enough small breeds.”

Last year 1,350 animals were

adopted, which is 375 more than the previous year.

“The animal world is evolving all over the country into no-kill facilities, and if you don’t get on board the no-kill train you will get left behind at the station,” Michael says. We are very fortunate to have the support of our board of supervisors as well as the community. They all understand that no-kill is not a brief phenomenon but is the real deal and is not going away.”

ment they need,” Michael says.

“But through donations, we are now looking for a part-time vet to work at our facility, which will help with medical needs as well as surgeries.”

Currently, when an injured animal comes in, staff takes it to Casa Grande Animal Hospital to be checked out.

“We let the rescue partners know that this animal is suffering, and they have until a certain time to come and get

Read more news on page 60...

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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The EDUCATION Edition

Don’t miss this opportunity to promote your business!

Pinal 40 & Boys & Girls Clubs of CGV . . . 34

Holiday Special Section . . . . . . .60

Winter Visitor Guide 2019 . . . . 97

Pinal County Press . . . . . . . . . . . 14

ROX Interview: Matt Herman . . . 16

Home & Garden Section . . . . . . 36

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Kelly Herrington, Sales Manager/REALTOR® (520) 780-0843 kelly@roxsells.com ©2018 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.

Dream Home

Golden Corridor 1919 N Trekell Rd, Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-423-8250 ROXSells.com | info@roxsells.com Subject property shown is a concept for a home to be built on depicted lot. Layout, dimensions, elevations etc are conceptual only, and are all subject in their entirety to negotiation. Buyer to select floor plan and options directly with developer and/or contractor before any final price can be determined.

Out & About If you would like to contribute images of area events, people, pets and scenery, please post on our Facebook page or email to: editor@roxco.com

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RONNIE RODRIGUEZ SNOW DAY AT ORACLE, ARIZONA

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BARBARA LANGAN - ROOSTER COGBURN OSTRICH RANCH THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Health • Happiness • Education

SANTOS APODACA - FRANCISCO GRANDE HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT IN CASA GRANDE

BARBARA LANGAN - HOT AIR BALLOON

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JOSH WUCHTERL AT THE 2019 CASA GRANDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOME SHOW

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53

The Overhead Myth

by Matthew Lemberg, Executive Director, The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Casa Grande Valley

H

“

BBB Wise Giving Alliance ®

To the Donors of America: We write to correct a misconception about what matters when deciding which charity to support.

The percent of charity expenses that go to administrative and fundraising costs—commonly referred to as “overhead”—is a poor measure of a charity’s performance.

We ask you to pay attention to other factors of nonprofit performance: transparency, governance, leadership, and results. For years, each of our organizations has been working to increase the depth and breadth of the information we provide to donors in these areas so as to provide a much fuller picture of a charity’s performance.

That is not to say that overhead has no role in ensuring charity accountability. At the extremes the overhead ratio can offer insight: it can be a valid data point for rooting out fraud and poor financial management.

In most cases, however, focusing on overhead without considering other critical dimensions of a charity’s financial and organizational performance does more damage than good.

In fact, many charities should spend more on overhead. Overhead costs include important investments charities make to improve their work: investments in training, planning, evaluation, and internal systems— as well as their efforts to raise money so they can operate their programs. These expenses allow a charity to sustain itself (the way a family has to pay the electric bill) or to improve itself (the way a family might invest in college tuition).

When we focus solely or predominantly on overhead, we can create what the Stanford Social Innovation Review has called “The Nonprofit Starvation Cycle.” We starve charities of the freedom they need to best serve the people and communities they are trying to serve.

If you don’t believe us—America’s three leading sources of information about charities, each used by millions of donors every year—see the back of this letter for research from other experts including Indiana University, the Urban Institute, the Bridgespan Group, and others that proves the point.

So when you are making your charitable giving decisions, please consider the whole picture. The people and communities served by charities don’t need low overhead, they need high performance.

Thank you,

54

Art Taylor President & CEO, BBB Wise Giving Alliance

Jacob Harold President & CEO, GuideStar

overheadmyth.give.org

overheadmyth.guidestar.org

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

Ken Berger President & CEO, Charity Navigator www.charitynavigator.org/ thebestandworstwaytopickacharity

ow much of my money will go directly to the kids?” This question (and all of the other variations of it I have heard) makes me cringe.

It’s based on an outdated belief that financial ratios are the best and/or only indicator of nonprofit success.

Repeatedly hearing this question a few times each year for the past 15 years (and again a few weeks ago), I don’t think this is true (and neither does our organization). After reading this article I am confident I can communicate this position in a way that will lead you to agree with me, too.

In 2014, the leaders of our country’s three leading sources of information related to nonprofits — BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator and GuideStar — wrote an open letter to the Donors of America that outlined the misconceptions perpetuated by the “overhead myth.”

The basic myth being that nonprofits with high administrative overhead are not good stewards of donor’s money.

The letter, in its entirety, can be found next to this article, but in summary, it encourages donors to judge nonprofits by an entirely different set of metrics, such as governance, leadership, results and transparency.

Please know that I am not saying that looking at an organization’s overhead ratio is a waste of time. In fact, it is quite valuable in that it can expose fraud or poor financial management practices, but instead of encouraging nonprofits to spend less on overhead, the writers of this letter argue that many charities should spend more.

“Overhead costs include important investments charities make to improve their work — training, planning,

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

evaluation and internal systems — as well as their efforts to raise money so they can operate their programs. These expenses allow a charity to sustain itself or to improve itself.”

A few years ago, we spent an entire board meeting discussing this topic after not receiving a grant due to high administrative costs. After much discussion, our board adopted the mindset that we would focus on impact and results instead of only focusing on maintaining low administrative and fundraising costs.

For the last four years we have intentionally made decisions allowing us to have the greatest impact on the lives’ of the members we serve. Some of the decisions made include: • Opening two new Boys & Girls clubs (we now have five).

• Increasing from serving 400 members each day to serving almost 600 members daily.

• Increasing annual operating expenses by nearly $240,000.

• Increasing the percentage of administrative and fundraising expenses by 7 percent.

hand, when you look at the statements I just made, it’s impossible to come to this conclusion. We are having a greater impact on more kids today than we were four years ago while remaining fiscally responsible. Like I said, we want our greatest focus to be on impact and results. We have decided that we are in the “social change” business and not the “low overhead” business.

So … what do I want you to do with this information moving forward? I want you to keep (or start) supporting nonprofits like our organization (check out our tax credit ad to the right — the donation doesn’t cost you anything.

Instead of focusing on the overhead myth, ask questions like, “How will my money make a difference?” or “What will you be able to accomplish with my donation?” The answers will help you to decide if your money will be well spent in helping the children of our community.

I know if you give me an opportunity to share the successes of our programs your next question will be: “How can I help?” For more information on how to make a donation, log on to azdor.gov/tax-credits/contributions-qcos-and-qfcos.

According to the overhead myth, which uses a very narrow metric, our organization is worse off today than it was four years ago based on the idea that because we have opened more locations, we are spending more on payroll staffing. On the other

Matthew has been the executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Casa Grande Valley since 2005. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Business Management) from Whitworth University and a Masters of Business Administration from Northern Arizona University.

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

GREAT FUTURES START AT BOYS &_ GIRLS CLUBS.

Your Donation Can Reduce Your Arizona State Income Tax Bill OR Increase Your Tax Refund — DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR!

WHAT DO CLUB MEMBERS THINK? 84% reported that they have a “sense of belonging” at our Clubs.

81% reported that we are doing a good job of making our Clubs “fun”.

70% reported that they had a “strong” connection to at least one staff member.

94% reported that they expect to graduate from high school.

85% reported that they expect to attend college The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Casa Grande Valley is an eligible recipient of the State of Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. Donate $400 (individual) or $800 (couple) to the BGCCGV by 4-1519 and claim as a CREDIT on your 2018 Arizona State Income Taxes. You don’t need to itemize your taxes to claim your credit.

To make an online donation, please visit www.cgkids.org, and for more information, please call 520-876-5437.

Ask your tax professional for details and eligibility requirements.

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

55

Creating Safer Communities Through Change

by Donna McBride, Pinal County Juvenile Court Program Administrator II

O

ften, when someone finds out I work for Juvenile Court, the old line comes out, “Back in my day, if I got in trouble at school I got it worse when I got home.” And for many, we can say this is true. But times were different then. Our communities, our families, our kids live in a different world. Whatever the reason, we must be proactive in helping our young people and their families be more successful.

Family is Key to Success of Youth Historically, juvenile probation supervision and its interventions have focused primarily on the youth. The court recognizes that the dynamics of the family are key to the success of youth under court-ordered supervision.

This alone is the most challenging component to our work and the most critical. We can spend thousands of dollars intervening with youth by way of outpatient or inpatient treatment, and while they are responding well to treatment and have successfully completed it, they are placed back in the home with their parents.

In many cases, services have not been implemented in the home, and a youth returns home and shortly thereafter has re-engaged in negative and/or new delinquent behavior. As the director of Pinal County Juvenile Court Services, Denise Smith says, “This has been a long-standing area of concern, and I felt it was time that we re-evaluate the way we do business.”

Reducing Repeat Offenders In 2014, the strategic agenda of the Arizona courts was published, called Advancing Justice Together: Courts and Communities.

Arizona’s Juvenile Justice Services Division of the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) began a process of certifying counties (community programs/probation) as evidence-based practices (EBP) compliant in early 2015. EBP is a body of research that has provided tools and techniques proven to be effective at reducing recidivism. These tools and techniques allow probation officers to determine risk and crime-producing characteristics of probationers and place them in appropriate supervision levels and programs.

Pinal County Juvenile Court Services was one of the first counties statewide to integrate EBP in probation supervision, case management and treatment services for youth.

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

Research indicates integration of EBP across these areas improves efficiency in managing probation youth and produces sustained reductions in recidivism resulting in improved public safety.

The issue of how to effectively implement EBP and measure recidivism is often debated in the probation community. One of our main goals is to address what will effectively reduce recidivism among probationers. Internally, we began discussing this issue, along with what research was being done to find the answer to our question.

Programs for Delinquent Youth In February 2016, we had our first collaborative meeting to address the design of treatment and supervision programs for delinquent youth. After a year of working through the details of a new model, the changes were presented and approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts, authorizing Pinal County to pilot the model in one geographical area of Pinal County.

San Tan Valley was selected as a pilot site based on results of data presented that suggested juvenile arrests were consistently

higher in this area. We now have a model of supervision designed to use strength-based interventions to improve family engagement and relationships by using evidence-based supervision with an emphasis on working with youth on their criminogenic risk and needs through appropriate programming and treatment.

Our team strives to help families identify and use natural supports; community connectedness is paramount to continued success of the youth. “We are happy to report great success with this model and as a result, have recently identified Casa Grande for the next pilot site,” Smith says.

As an organization, Pinal County Juvenile Court continues to move forward with the times and train staff to provide the best service in today’s trying times. Improving the family will result in healthier, safe communities in Pinal County.

Contributors to this story: Juvenile Court Services Staff Celena Angstead, Stacie Blackburn, Cory Jacobs and Director Denise Smith. pinalcountyaz.gov/JuvenileCourtServices

Average Pre and Post AZYAS Scores for Youth with Successful Completions by Domain

Average Pre and Post AZYAS Scores for Youth AZYAS Post AZYAS with SuccessfulPreCompletions

by Domain 3.5

Average Pre and Post AZYAS Scores for Youth with Successful Comple Domain 2.33

Pre AZYAS

Post AZYAS

1.83 3.5

1.33

1.17

1

1

0.83 0.5

0.33

0.67 2.33

0.17

1.83 Family and Living Peers and Social Arrangement Network Support

Education and 1.33 Employment

Pro-Social Skills Substance Abuse, Values, Beliefs, Mental Health, and Attitudes 1 1 and Personality

0.33

1.17 0.83

0.5

Juvenile Probation uses the Arizona Youth Assessment System (AZYAS) to assess youths’ risk to recidivate. The AZYAS measures risk levels in six domains. Youth receive Family and Living Peers and Social Education and Pro-Social Skills Substance Abuse a risk score in each domain as well as an overall risk score, which indicates whether Arrangement Network Support Employment Mental Health, they are at low, moderate or high risk to re-offend. Youth in the specialized caseload and Personality are assessed using the AZYAS when they are admitted into the program and after they complete it. Pre- and post-overall risk scores, as well as domain risk scores, are compared to assess changes in scores from the time youth start the program to the time they complete it.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Completely fenced 60 acre ranch, land and home.

16016 E. Cactus Forest Road, Florence $1,041,250 This was the headquarters for the England Cattle Company. Modular 2BR 2BA with office, great room with wet bar and dining area. Kitchen has nice breakfast bar and tiled floor. Large enclosed screened patio, great for entertaining or feeding your cowboys.

Butcher shop, tack room, corrals, squeeze chute, scales and lots more!

JOYCE SOUTH

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Purr-purr-trator or Legal Beagle

L

earning the rules of the road is not just for pedestrians but also for pet owners, who simply need to know the facts and follow the rules. The City of Casa Grande Animal Care and Adoption Center (CGACC) has published a handy brochure featuring several city animal control codes. And the Pinal County Animal Care and Control has a user-friendly webpage called “Frequently Asked Questions.”

Below are outtakes from the CGACC brochure.

NEW LEASH ON LIFE — No person owning, keeping, possessing, harboring or maintaining a dog shall allow the dog to be at large. An animal control officer may impound any animal found at large, or off the owner’s property, not under control or not on a leash of some person in the streets, alleys or other public places or vacant or enclosed lots in the city.

TAG ‘EM DANNO — Casa Grande code states: All dogs and cats kept, harbored or maintained in the city must be licensed if older than 4 months. A license shall be issued by the city or designated agents. Cats living in unincorporated areas of Pinal County do not need to be licensed, and some cities or towns do not require a license for a cat. Change of ownership also requires that the license be changed to the new owner. Any animal subject to

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

Keeping Your Pet Safe on the Streets

by Gigi McWhirter

licensing found not wearing a license shall be deemed unowned. Stray or unowned animals are held for 72 hours per state law. The animal then becomes the property of the shelter.

BITE ME — Whenever a dog or cat bites any person, the incident shall be reported to the city police department or an animal control officer immediately by any person having direct knowledge. This rule applies to the entire state. Bites are reported to the agency serving the property where the bite occurred.

Failure to report a bite is considered unlawful.

NO GO — No person having charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, shall place or confine the animal or allow the animal to be placed or confined or to remain in a motor vehicle under such conditions or for such period of time as may endanger the health or well-being of the animal because of heat, lack of food or drink or such other circumstances that may cause suffering, disability or death. Also important to note, a peace officer or animal control officer who finds an animal in a motor vehicle in violation of motor vehicle confinement rules may break and enter the vehicle to remove the animal.

The animal may then be taken by the officer

to an animal shelter or other place of safe keeping. A person who violates any provision of the confinement section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

DON’T LEAVE ME — Abandoning an animal is prohibited. This includes leaving them on a road, street, highway or on public or private property. An animal is also considered abandoned when the owner or custodian fails to claim it from a boarding or veterinary facility.

Remember, cruelty to animals is prohibited.

Period. Whether the animal belongs to you or someone else. If you suspect cruelty, contact a peace officer or animal control officer immediately.

Please refer to the animal control agency serving your area for laws and ordinances.

Happy Tails to you!

Casa Grande Animal Care & Adoption Center: 520-426-9300 Eloy Animal Care and Control: 520-466-4152 Pinal County Animal Control: 520-509-3555 Printed with permission from the Casa Grande Animal Care and Adoption Center.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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Robin Armenta Robin.Armenta@coldwellbanker.com 520-414-8268 cell Robin was amazing, very helpful every step of the way. She was always very quick to respond and showed us all our options.

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520.423.8250 | ROXsells.com ©2018 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.

PINAL COUNTY PRESS A R IZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR A NDE • CO OLIDGE • ELOY • F LOR ENCE • M A R ICOPA

CONTINUED…

CAC Aims to Improve College Completion Rates

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acquelyn Elliott is implementing changes at Central Arizona College (CAC) that are making an impact not only on its students, but on the community as well. As president of CAC, Elliott has made it her mission to shift the academic atmosphere from being a “little university” back to being a community college and improving retention and completion rates.

Elliott also has reached out to the community, meeting with local employers to find out what they are looking for in CAC graduates. What she learned helped the college determine which courses to add to its curriculum so students can find immediate employment after graduation.

“Many of our students graduate debt free with an associate’s degree and find jobs in town,” she says, adding that many work in the manufacturing and industrial tech fields, which are hugely popular with students.

She is also cutting the num-

The new Student Union building at CAC’s Signal Peak campus includes a cafeteria, bookstore and student lounge.

ber of classes offered. Two years ago, CAC taught 1,000 different courses.

“Students were overwhelmed by all the options,” Elliott says.

“It was like the Cheesecake Factory menu where you don’t know where to start. Students

want someone to tell them what courses to take and lay it out for them. Basically, it’s going from the Cheesecake Factory menu to the Chipotle model.”

Approximately 300 courses have or will be eliminated to help students stay focused on

their coursework.

“The goal is for students to either complete their associate’s degree in as short as time as possible and graduate or transfer to a university at a junior level,” El-

Continued on page 92...

APS Lowers Bills and Aides Struggling Federal Employees

O

n Feb. 1, APS brought some relief to its residential customers with the announcement of lower monthly bills and additional assistance to federal employees affected by the government shutdown.

The rate reduction took place immediately and will amount to about $3 per household. While this may not sound like a lot, APS says that overall, the average customer’s monthly bill will be $9.59 less than it was a year before.

“We are always looking for ways to keep our product affordable, as well as safe, clean and reliable,” says Stacy Derstine, APS

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Vice President of Customer Service. “That’s how, for 20 years, APS rates have stayed below the rate of inflation. We pass savings on to customers when our costs to serve them come down.”

The lower rate came as a result of increased sales of electricity to other Western states, lower operating costs at APS power plants due in part to lower fuel prices and payments made to the power company to take excess solar generation from California.

“Although we continue to work to make power affordable, we know some of our customers may still need assistance to pay

their electricity bills, and offering them help is the right thing to do,” says Derstine. Since August, APS has added $2.5 million to its Crisis Bill Assistance program and, with recent additions, the total is $2.75 million. “Our Energy Support Program offers a 25-percent monthly discount that can make a big difference for customers who qualify.”

In February, APS announced a $1.5 million increase in assistance for customers struggling to pay their electricity bills because of sudden financial hardship. A special fund of $500,000 has been allocated for Arizona customers

affected by the shutdown. The program gives qualifying customers up to $400 per year to help pay their electricity bills.

Families dealing with job loss, lapse in payment due to the shutdown, unforeseen medical expenses or other financial difficulties are encouraged to apply and see if they qualify. Assistance is available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

For more information on the Energy Support Program or Crisis Bill Assistance, log on to aps.com/ assistance.

Read more news on page 92...

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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Going Hi-Tech

to Protect Your Family and Home

T

hanks to technology you can nearby. It’s perfect for when you have make your home safer than left home and suddenly realize you left ever before for you, your your bedroom light on. You can also family and your possessions. remotely turn lights on at night if you The standard home protection for are not home, to give the appearance decades has included smoke detecthat someone is home. tors, window locks, a basic home Smart detector - Smart detectors security system and sometimes a come with the same smoke sensors neighborhood watch program. But, and carbon monoxide detectors as we now have sophisticated alarms and any other regular alarm. They will alert multiple cameras that you can monitor you through a smartphone app that with your smartphone, as well as other there is smoke or carbon monoxide in devices that are not too expensive and the air. A smart detector will tell you that can give you peace of mind. whether it’s smoke or gas - and where Oftentimes too, insurance comit’s coming from. panies may offer discounts on your Smart surveillance - If you have homeowner’s insurance for installing children or pets, you may have these devices. thought about using home video If you want to make your home more cameras to keep an eye on them. And secure and smarter, you may want to while it’s wonderful to have a live feed consider these new technologies: you can watch remotely, that’s not all Smart doorbell - Smart doorbells it can be used for.

With smart surveillance cameras, come equipped with an HD camera Since 1916, Auto-Own you’ll also be notified if an intruder is in that can film anybody that comes to your local independen your home. Sensors will detect a breakyour door; they don’t have to ring the there when it matters in through glass doors or windows, doorbell. If they do, the device allows quality of your agent, then show you where that person is, sobehind the you to see who is arriving at your that stands you can alert the local authorities. home regardless of where you are in the world, and to communicate via The takeaway two-way audio with visitors.

All of the above can give you peace This is a great way to also catch of mind when you are not home, and video of any thieves stealing packages there are surely other devices on the from your doorstep. There are number Drivers typically seconds horizon spend that will five be even better. looking at th of brands of smart doorbells, including phones, which enough time istothat cover Butisthe other benefit yourmore than ones by Amazon. homeowner’s insurer may give you a Smart locks - There are two types length of a football field going normal highway sp discount on your coverage for installof smart locks: ing any of these security devices in • Ones that use a 9-digit keypad your home. into which you enter a preset code to unlock the door.

For more information on your homeown• Ones that connect to a smarters or renter’s insurance, please give ROX phone app to unlock the door.

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With the apps you can send a “virtual key” to guests and other visitors (like repair people) so they can enter on their own.

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A Small Business Turns Into a Family Legacy

by Paula Leslie, Managing Partner, Mankel Mechanical and Two Brothers Plumbing

T

wenty years ago, I told Eddie Mankel, my husband at the time and my current business partner, that he would probably never be completely happy working for someone else. He had owned a landscaping business with a partner in the 80s and really liked it. My job at the time paid all the bills, and we had equity in our house that we could use for startup capital so I encouraged him to get a license and go out on his own.

Eddie chose plumbing. He had been doing it since he was 12 years old, starting as a helper for Vernon Hancock, one of the first plumbing contractors in the Casa Grande area. If you ask him, Eddie would take you by the apartments where he dug plumbing trenches by hand. Vernon and Eddie’s relationship lasted until Vernon’s death. Eddie has a lot of respect for the man that offered him not just a job, but a chance to learn a trade.

The economy was ripe in 1999 for a new subcontracting business, and we started a business — Mankel Mechanical — and soon had contracts with some of the best local builders. Eddie always stayed away from ser-

Inseparable since they first met

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

Daddies and plumbers vice and repair plumbing. The business was 80 percent new construction and the rest repair and service, and new construction paid the bills until a recession hit.

We kept three large white boards at the shop to track progress on the three phases of new construction plumbing. The first board was for the new starts. Eddie will tell the story about how one day he walked into the office and noticed the first board was empty.

And just like that, construction in Arizona came to a screeching halt.

We have a friend living in Texas who used to work for a franchise restaurant company in the construction end. He was in charge of new builds and remodels. He had a lot of remodels coming up in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and he wanted to know if we were interested in doing the plumbing. Eddie got on a plane to Austin, took and passed his Master Plumber license for the state of Texas, and for the next two years we stayed busy out of state. Both our sons, Vaughn and Shea, had been working for us for a while by then. Vaughn also went to Texas and got on-the-job training remodeling commercial bathrooms and kitchens.

After the last economic recession, Eddie was a little more open to the service indus-

try, but we could never find the right person to represent our company. I suggested Vaughn. Once he started doing service calls, a whole new avenue of our business exploded. We decided the service side needed a new name that sounded more “service-y.”

The boys came up with a business plan, a name and a logo. With some new paint and new stickers, the van was transformed from Mankel Mechanical to Two Brothers Plumbing. Although Shea works the new construction field most of the time, he is considered one of the “Brothers.” We now have two vans and employ another full-time service plumber and recently hired an apprentice and an office assistant.

Twenty years ago, I never would have envisioned our sons taking over the business, but I am proud they have an interest. I’ll stick around for at least another 10 years, (Vaughn says more like 30) and then at our 30th anniversary, maybe I’ll order my last fixture schedule. I’ll be secure in knowing that both of our boys learned plumbing from the best and most knowledgeable plumber in Pinal County and that both of them are hardworking men, devoted fathers and good plumbers.

And at the end of the work day, they really are just two brothers.

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

CASA

Celebrating 30 Years

30 Years of CASA Celebrating 30 years of the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Pinal County brings back memories for me as a young probation officer. All those years ago with then Judge William “Bill” O’Neil guiding us, our department came to realize that there was a need for this program.

Starting in 1989, we had one coordinator and a part-time secretary with a group of five energetic volunteers. Fast forward to 2019 where we now have a staff of four coordinators, two administrative assistants, a supervisor and nearly 80 volunteers. The volunteers are challenged with some very difficult situations, but often very rewarding experiences.

Being removed from one’s home due to neglect and abuse is traumatic for any child.

Juvenile Court Services is dedicated to serving children who have been entered into the dependency system.

We realize the work of our CASA advocates is greatly needed and we will continue to move forward to find solutions that will result in safety for children and safe communities.

Join me in celebrating 30 years of our CASA advocates who have truly been the “voice for the child.”

Respectfully, Denise Smith Director

Denise Smith Director

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I am privileged to be surrounded by an enormous amount of caring, compassionate and dedicated advocates and staff. Every day in our office is different, just like every single child that we encounter.

Each advocate has their own story of why they volunteer for us. Every child has their own story of what has happened to them. Unfortunately, most of them don’t feel as if they have a voice. Our advocates become that voice.

As we celebrate 30 years in Pinal County, we have seen successes, challenges, and yes, even the most tragic results.

But for every bad there is good. For every heartache there is compassion and drive to do more.

And we do have more to do. With more than 1,200 children in foster care in our county, we will not stop. If it takes another 30 years for these children, we are ready.

Our volunteer advocates are the true heroes for these children. They all have a face, a name and a story.

Respectfully, Donna McBride CASA Unit Supervisor

Donna McBride CASA Unit Supervisor

Juvenile Court Services has dedicated staff in the CASA unit. Current staff include Pam Burke, Coordinator (seated); Amanda Lairmore, Administrative Assistant; Michelle Martinez, Coordinator; Erin Avilez, Coordinator; Donna McBride, Supervisor; and Jodi Wheeler, Administrative Assistant

Emily Belloc of Casa Grande recently joined the CASA team as a coordinator

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Home Town

I “I met some great people that looked beyond my fears and distrust and accepted me for who I was. One of those people included my Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer.”

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want to tell a story. The ending hasn’t really happened yet. This is a journey about my life. You see, I was a foster kid along with my brothers and sister. I was afraid from the day we were taken away from our parents.

That fear has been my shadow, turning into distrust, shame, feeling sorry for myself and depending only on myself. Nothing was explained to me and my future was uncertain. I was separated from my family and so confused. Why did my parents let this happen to me? Was it my fault? Don’t I deserve a family? What did I do wrong?

I grew up in the foster care system drifting in and out of relationships and trying to be “normal,” whatever that was. But the fact is, I never felt normal. How can that happen when you don’t know from day to day where you will be living, where you will be going to school or who will be there for you. I was on survival mode just trying to get by. I had four different case workers, lived in six placements, including juvenile detention and a number of group homes, and attended five different schools.

Every time I had to change places, my personal stuff was usually tossed in a trash bag. Some of my childhood is just a blur with no school pictures, no mementos of achievements from school or a parent cheering me on at my Little League games. Living in the foster care system meant that no one was permanent in my life. It was a revolving door of case workers, attorneys, foster parents, therapists, teachers and judges.

Then I turned 18, a time for young people to spread their wings. I was an adult in the eyes of the court; “aging out” of the child welfare system is what they call it. I call it fending for yourself. I had never paid rent, bought groceries or managed my own expenses. I went from someone telling me what to do and how to do it on a daily basis to being lonely and afraid. On my own for the first time in my life, I had no one to catch me if I fell. I was responsible for surviving in a world on my own. I felt so alone – again.

As a child I was an innocent victim but as an adult I had to make decisions and those decisions would help shape my destiny. I was forced into a system that tried to care for me but did not prepare me for being an adult. I

knew I could continue to be a victim of my circumstances or I could turn those negative memories in my life into motivation to push forward. If only I had made more positive choices I would have no regrets. I cannot erase my past but I can tackle those obstacles head on and move forward.

Even though I grew up away from my family, who was dysfunctional at best, I met some great people that looked beyond my fears and distrust and accepted me for who I was. One of those people included my Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer.

He listened to me when no one else was willing, he believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He advocated for my best interests in and out of court and encouraged me to follow my passion. I will never forget what my CASA volunteer did for me even though I didn’t always tell him thank you.

My journey is not over but I do see light at the end of the tunnel. After struggling with homelessness and not being able to hold down a job, I finally earned my high school diploma. I now have a full-time job and go to school part time. I am unsure of what I want to be when I “grow up,” but I do know that I have forgiven my past, triumphed over the challenges and can now focus on the person I was meant to be.

My hometown heroes are all the kids in foster care that have decided to change their life by looking beyond their past to a future that is whole and bright. These youth cannot do it alone. They need the support and compassion of healthy adults and a community willing to give them a chance.

According to United Friends of the Children, “Youth often state that it was the presence of one caring adult that made all the difference.”

Fred Roger’s from “Mister Roger’s Neighborhood” once said, “We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility.

It’s easy to say ‘it’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’

Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider these people my heroes.”

As a community you can be an advocate to one of our “hometown hero” youth by becoming a CASA volunteer, becoming a foster parent, being a mentor, or employing a youth and help them start their future.

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Women from the Robson Ranch Needlecrafters group presented nearly 200 homemade hats to the Juvenile Court Community Advisory Board’s Baby Bag Project for infants in foster care. Pictured is Kathy Muhlbeier, Judy Ault, Pam Burke, Donna McBride, Phyllis Flail and Jan Strycker.

Dave Franklin, former coordinator, spreading the CASA message during Maricopa Kid’s Day.

Summer ice cream socials are just one of the many ways CASA brings its advocates together. Pictured is Sharyn Schell with Jim and Cally Reynolds during a peer support meeting as coordinators Pam Burke and Greg Clark dish it up.

Ann Dessert was named the 2014 CASA Ambassador of the Year for Pinal County during the Brunch & Recognition Ceremony. Ann received the honor for 10 years of dedicated service. And now, five years later, Ann is still active and can be found helping coordinator Pam Burke in the Casa Grande office. Pictured with Ann is Judge Figueroa, Court Administrator Todd Zweig and Director Denise Smith.

April 2014 was a beautiful morning to celebrate CASA’s 25th Anniversary at the Historic Courthouse in Florence.

Everyone enjoyed a catered brunch while visiting with one another.

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Swearing in advocates during our 2014 ceremony is Judge Gilberto V. Figueroa at the Historic Courthouse in Florence.

CASA advocates take a loyalty oath to serve the courts.

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Pinal Council for C A S A/ E

stablished in 2004, Pinal Council for CASA/Foster Inc (PCCI) is a volunteer board that has been a constant support system for our the CASA program and its advocates who work endlessly on behalf of abused and neglected children. They saw a need to provide services to our young victims and responded with dedication and enthusiasm. This group doesn’t give up, they build up.

They strive to do more, be more and give more.

PCCI does an enormous amount of work on behalf of child victims who have been abused and neglected.

Oftentimes, these young victims do not have a voice of their own. PCCI has been instrumental in developing partnerships with community members, organizations and businesses which has led to an increased awareness of the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program and the need for more volunteers to be the voice for our young victims.

PCCI Member Rhonda is a favorite elf at their annual Christmas party.

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his group has spearheaded a variety of annual events in Pinal County, including the annual Christmas party for thousands of children. They coordinate the annual back-to-school party that now includes a Harkins matinee with snacks and distribution of school supplies for each child.

They developed a tutoring program with Sylvan Learning Center and private tutors. Many of the foster children were behind in school because of poor attendance, lack of follow through with homework, poor parental participation and frequent moves within the foster system.

PCCI members join CASA staff at Ross Abbott to educate employees about foster care.

For more information about this independent nonprofit group, contact PCCI Post Office Box 12569 Casa Grande, Arizona 85130 Pcci4foster@gmail.com 6

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W. Maricopa Hwy. Casa Grande

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/ Foster Inc

PCCI

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roject Prom is a project for our teen victims. This provides them the opportunity to attend their prom in style by providing gowns, tuxedos, prom tickets, dinners, etc., all at the expense of PCCI. The group also saw the need to continue supporting our youth who “age out” of the foster care system. These youth can get financial help purchasing books or laptops that will assist them in meeting their educational goals.

PCCI often provides financial assistance to individual foster children so they can participate in horseback riding lessons, special camps, receive bikes, provide tickets for cultural events, musical instruments, fees for sports activities, etc. These opportunities often stimulate growth and enrichment to their mental and physical recovery.

CASA is grateful for this dedicated group who continues to support our efforts and the needs of all foster children in Pinal County.

PCCI member Anne Dessert sitting in as Mrs. Claus

“PCCI does an enormous amount of work on behalf of child victims who have been abused and neglected.”

The annual PCCI Christmas Party.

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From the Heart of a CASA Advocate Never Let Them See You Cry

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’d made it 16 months without a slip. Warmed in the rosy glow of the team’s effort to reunite a child with his mother, watching a family become “forever” through adoption, seeing the big wheel turn to change the life of a mother and her two tiny babies — it’s been a wonderful 16 months. Then it happened. No one saw it happen. You never want anyone to see. It may happen when you are all alone, in the dark, driving home from a visit with one of your special kids. It hits you like a punch to the stomach. This child needs more than the revolving door of care givers even in the best group home and a CASA that visits twice a month. The operative word we are missing is “home.” This child needs a real home.

This child needs a mommy to teach her to bake cupcakes and kneel beside her for bedtime prayers. This child needs a daddy to teach her to ride her two-wheeler, take her to her first “Daddy and Me Dance” at school and teach her that all men are not to be feared. This child needs a home where she can go to the refrigerator at any time for a JuicyJuice box or those baby carrots she loves. She needs a home where her room sometimes does get really messy because of all her toys, books and that dozen stuffed animals. She needs a mommy and daddy to visit her teachers on Parent’s Night and who will burst with pride as they see a third prize white ribbon on a castle made from oatmeal boxes.

Why cry tonight? I should be happy. We are doing some really good things for her. Unfortunately, she’s used to many people coming in and out of her life.

She’s adjusting pretty well on the surface. The tears are because, for the first time, I see a mountain ahead that we, as CASAs, might not be able to climb successfully each time. We all know (we can feel it in our hearts!) that the right, special family is out there, somewhere, for our special needs kids, but finding them is so, so difficult. The complexity of adoption profiles, privacy acts, background checks, adoption communications on the media, such as Wendy’s Child … it all takes such time and money.

Every new placement this child endures, every year that passes, it all makes finding a forever home a bit more difficult. The tears flow because this CASA understands by the time a child reaches 10 to 12 years old, the prospects grow dimmer. Families are more reluctant to take a chance. The solution is not simple. The key again is with the strength and diligence of the child’s Department of Child Safety team or Developmental Disability Divison team. Persistence, regular communications to the media as appropriate, visits or outings with prospective families, talking with every adoptive agency available, and most important, never giving up.

These special needs children can do none of this work themselves.

They rely solely on the efforts of their team and surrounding agencies.

It is too easy in today’s world to be content with finding the child a safe and caring group home. It is true there are so many children, and safety must be our first concern. The numbers can be staggering. The job might seem insurmountable, but we, all of us, cannot stop trying. There is a special family somewhere that needs only to meet this adorable, bubbly little girl, spend some time with her and let her melt their heart, too.

I can’t say you’ll never catch a CASA crying. There are so many kids that need our help and so few CASAs. Perhaps we should look at our tears as fuel, fuel to energize us again to get busy, never give up and, ultimately, shed the best tears of all — tears of joy when a child has found a forever home and that special someone to tuck them in each night.

“for the first time, I see a mountain ahead that we, as CASAs, might not be able to climb successfully each time.”

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Lydia Mercier CASA Advocate, 10 years

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Thank You

For supporting our community all of these years!

Service • Sales • Parts

(520) 836-7921

www.norrisrv.com

973 W. Gila Bend Hwy. Casa Grande

Multiple generations of the Lowenthal family proudly support CASA and foster care to adoption.

A child born to another woman calls me mommy. The magnitude of that tragedy and depth of that privilege are not lost on me. ~ Jody Landers Casa Grande Jewelry & Pawn

1326 N. Pinal Ave Casa Grande, AZ | 520.836.7774

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A Difference for a

Foster Child

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he month of May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize the critical role that we each can play in transforming the lives of foster youth in our communities. There are currently more than 14,000 children in foster care in Arizona, many of whom are legally free for adoption and awaiting permanent families.

Thousands of committed foster parents, social workers, advocates, professionals and volunteers work tirelessly to protect and nurture these vulnerable children and find them a permanent, stable place to call home, but there is more the community can do to help.

“Being a CASA in Pinal County is an opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child and adds meaning to my own life,” says Bobbi Seabolt, a 10-year Pinal County advocate.

“National Foster Care Month is an excellent time for all of us to ask what we can do for a child.”

Bobbi Seabolt, Casa Grande, CASA for 11 years

You can make a difference by: • •

•

•

•

Becoming a foster or adoptive parent Volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) to speak up on behalf of these children in court Serving on the Foster Care Review Board to review the case status of children in your county Helping spread the word in your community by organizing an event, speaking to a community group or hosting a training Supporting the agencies that endeavor to meet the unmet needs of foster children, such as Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation or Arizona Helping Hands.

Through the Years 30 Years of CASA Judicial Leadership Judge William O’Neil

Judge Gilberto Figueroa

Judge Stephen McCarville January 1989 Judge Robert Bean, Presiding Judge

Judge Kevin White

Judge Brenda Oldham

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Annual Adoption Day

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The Brown family of Casa Grande started a yearly tradition to share teddy bears with other adopted youth and share the joys of adoption that they have experienced.

ach November the CASA of Pinal County joins courts and communities across the county to finalize adoptions from the foster care system.

This one day celebrates the joys of adoption and encourages more people to create or grow families through adoption. Last year, over 450 families, volunteers and staff attended this special day.

This annual event is part of a nationwide effort to call attention to the more than 100,000 children waiting in the U.S. foster care system. Every year, over 4,000 adoptions are finalized as part of National Adoption Day, and communities host events to celebrate families formed through adoption. It is also a day to draw attention to the more than 22,000 children who turn 18 every year without having a forever family.

A coalition of local organizations participated in organizing this special day, including Pinal County Juvenile Court Services, Pinal County Clerk of the Court, Pinal County Attorney’s Office, The Shanker Law Firm, Arizona Attorney General’s Office, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program, Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) and the Pinal County Superior Court. An average of 100 court staff and community volunteer for the event.

This little guy is ready to start his process, as Judge Brenda Oldham looks on.

The Caliente Clowns of Florence join the celebration every year to bring smiles to adults and children alike.

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November 3, 2018

Quiltz for Kids of Casa Grande donates a quilt for every child being adopted during the annual event.

Volunteer Liz Caster coordinates the donation of hundreds of books each year so all adopted children and their siblings receive a free book. Pictured with Liz is Coordinator Pam Burke.

Samantha, a Casa Grande Union High School student, loves CASA and can’t wait until she’s old enough to be a CASA!

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A local quilters group created a beautiful banner that is now a tradition in the Superior Courthouse each Adoption Day.

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Oath of Office I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully discharge the duties of a Court Appointed Special Advocate according to the laws established by both state and federal statutes.

I will faithfully discharge my duties as a volunteer advocate in the best interests of the children appointed to me by the court.

I will hold confidential all information entrusted to me in the performance of my duties.

I will honor the responsibility bestowed upon me as an officer of the court.

I chose to volunteer specifically for CASA because ...

I feel that I’m giving a kid a chance for a better life. I’ve also learned a lot about the thoughts and feelings of kids without family support.

I’m able to help the families understand the system and what everything means.

I know what I do makes a difference in a child for the positive.

I want to make a difference in someone’s life…investing in the future.

Paul Hoefs, San Tan Valley, New CASA

Twila Perucci, Gold Canyon, CASA for 1 year

CASA of Pinal County Statistics 1989 to 2019 • Have had 389 volunteer advocates • Involved with 2,080 children • 518 of those children found permanency with the help of a CASA • 314 were adopted into forever homes In the last 30 years our CASA advocates have: • Volunteered over 87,800 hours • Traveled 776,012 miles to court, visits, etc.

• Spent $73,396 of their own money on behalf of a child

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Stephen Prickett, Apache Junction, CASA for 3 years

Sue Ruohomaki, San Tan Valley, New CASA

For more information on the CASA program please contact: CASA of Pinal County PO Box 906 Florence, AZ 85132 Tel: 520.866.7076 | Fax: 520.866.7081 W W W. A ZCOURTS.GOV/CASAOFPINALCOUNT Y

How has being a CASA brought you satisfaction?

In my cases, my kids and I have established a caring relationship that lasts beyond closure of their case.

Because of my own experience as a 12-year-old in court prior to the CASA program. I was terrified.

Seeing a “problem” child evolving into a functional adult.

Dan Danser, Florence, CASA for 8 years

Dana Johanson, Queen Creek, CASA for 1 year

My CASA children have brought much more to my life than I could ever bring to theirs. Watching these children grow and be happy, as they were either adopted or returned to a parent they loved, has given me more satisfaction than I can express.

As an educator for 37 years, being at CASA has been an awesome fit. If you love children, this is for you!

I know that I made a big difference for at least one of the children I have served. Until you have met a child in foster care, it is hard to imagine what life is like for them.

I can honestly say that “my kids” are happier and better off now at home with their parents who buckled down and did the work to get them back, or they are now safe in another home with a family that loves them…forever.

Anne Lewis, Casa Grande, CASA for 4 years

Beth Chism, San Tan Valley, CASA for 2 years

Cathy Bednarz, Gold Canyon CASA for 1.5 years

Kelley Kimble, Apache Junction, CASA for 13 years

Barbara Gesiki, Maricopa, CASA for 5 years

One-on-one relationships that make a difference.

Lydia Mercier, Casa Grande, CASA for 10 years

CASA of Pinal County Court Appointed Special Advocates FOR CHILDREN

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The ROX Interview (continued) ...continued from page 19 ters. So, I think once we get the circle-of-life housing stock, we’ll become a more holistic city, and we’ll be able to reach out and be able to do more with that. Our housing stock is also part of our infrastructure and we need to be aware of that as we go forward.

GC LIVING: There is a very set cycle of growth for communities. Rooftops are first. Retail is second. Industrial and commercial are the tail end. Maricopa’s just in the middle of retail. When do you foresee industry attraction?

RICK HORST: I think you’re going to see a major difference in the next three to five years. We’re receiving phone calls from people who are hearing that we’re now willing to look at higher-density housing.

And, workforce is a critical part of it.

As you know now, the city of Maricopa’s daytime population is fairly minimal. A lot of people leave for jobs elsewhere, mostly in greater Phoenix. We have to grow the daytime population so we can begin to fill some of those jobs.

GC LIVING: I know a significant number of the Maricopans heading up to the Valley for employment go to Intel.

RICK HORST: Yes, true.

GC LIVING: Would that be the high-tech sectors if Maricopa could attract another Intel or Intel-like company? Is that something as a target?

RICK HORST: Well, absolutely it is. The interesting thing about economic development is we tend to target a lot of things. And we should make efforts to go after things, but the real thing about economic development is being ready for the opportunity when it presents itself.

In my last community, we were able to attract the back-offices of a lot of the large California high-tech companies. This included the people who did the payroll, the insurance, the purchasing, all those types of things; those who were looking for an area where it could be more family-oriented.

There comes a point when those people will start thinking about family and kids.

They want to live in a safe environment where they can raise a family but still carry on their career choice.

GC LIVING: Maricopa doesn’t really have true shovel-ready sites today. Is that something

that is in the short-term future?

RICK HORST: It is. As you probably are aware, we have a new developer who will be building a mixed-used office, retail and residential project at the Copper Sky Commercial Complex. We also have been working with the Estrella Gin property for quite some time and soon will be initiating a fresh approach to development opportunities.

However, I think sometimes it’s a little bit of a misnomer when we say we’re shovel ready because, to have a road in or have

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

water or sewer to the property is important, but it’s probably less important than the overall attitude of what it takes to make things happen. And it requires a partnership effort and some creative out-of-thebox thinking to make these things happen.

GC LIVING: Let’s talk about the airport that is currently located east of Maricopa, and it’s now owned by the Ak-Chin Indian Community. At one point in time it was under discussion as a municipal airport for the

continued on page 94...

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ROLLING ON

Traveling • Dining • Entertainment

THE RIVER The most beautiful type of travel through the world’s famous cities

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he rowing machine I was sitting on was located in the front of the ship, a repositioning cruise from Europe aboard a 3,600-passenger vessel. I had been on the machine for about 25 minutes when a fellow passenger tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I could row a little harder and get us out of these rough seas. It was an exciting crossing through the English Channel and across the Atlantic, which is notoriously choppy in October. I enjoyed the roll and pitch after days of very calm seas. However, looking around the exercise room, I noticed it was pretty empty. As “the spawn of Popeye,” which my husband calls me, I never get seasick, but even I admitted this was one of the rougher seas I have experienced.

When I talk with people about a cruise vacation, the top two reasons my clients give for choosing other travel options is they want to avoid large ships with lots of people and they are concerned about possible seasickness. If you are in either of these camps, then consider a river cruise.

River cruises are my absolutely favorite type of vacation. My first trip to Europe included a river cruise along the Rhine that featured one amazing castle after another.

These castles were constructed centuries ago as defensive fortifications to protect the rich land around the castle from intruders. Since they were located along the routes of trade, the castle owners took advantage of their strategic positions to impose tolls on merchants. Although no longer collecting tolls, these castles remain guardians of the terraced vineyards along the river – full and verdant in the spring and summer and blushed with golden rust in the fall.

River cruising, by its very nature, provides you an upclose and personal look at the cities you most want to visit.

The trade routes and posts established in ancient times have grown into some of the world’s most popular cities, which you can see from your balcony while sipping a cup of coffee or cool beverage. The rivers most navigated are typically smooth and calm. The ships stop in the heart of these cities, so that you spend your time seeing the sites,

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by Tori Ward, Cruise and Resort Specialist, ROX Travel Photos by Jerry Chinn

not traveling for hours to get someplace that only provides you enough time to grab lunch.

My husband and I took Viking’s Waterways of the Tsars cruise a couple of years ago. From St. Petersburg, we cruised along the Svir River eventually meeting the Volga and following it into Moscow. Instead of a few hours in St. Petersburg, or even a day, we had three full days to spend in this exciting and historic city, as well as three days in Moscow. We spent a half-day at the Kremlin, and returned at night to take wonderful photos. Our guides were knowledgeable and were with us from the time we were collected at the airport until they said goodbye in Moscow.

We wandered for hours through the Hermitage, the world’s largest art museum; spent one morning at the Winter Palace and the afternoon at Catherine’s Palace; and enjoyed a performance of Swan Lake that evening. It was a trip that included many extras, which would have been added charges on a cruise ship – cooking classes, guided tours, Russian language classes and many cultural performances.

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The Health Benefits of Dance

by Corianna Lee, Director, Coolidge Performing Arts Center In addition to the many physical benefits dance has to offer, studies have shown dance to improve cognitive function and mindfulness.

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elevision shows such as “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” have ignited an interest in dance unlike ever before.

Intertwined with grace and athleticism, dance also has many physical and mental-health benefits that have been and currently are being studied.

Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, patients with Parkinson’s disease showed improved balance and coordination with a dance therapy regimen.

The work of somatic dance therapists, such as Martha Eddy, have led to increased studies in dance rehabilitation for cancer patients.

Physical Benefits

In addition to the many physical benefits dance has to offer, studies have shown dance to improve cognitive function and mindfulness. Dance offers complex coordination patterns that challenge the brain, no matter the style or form, in addition to the cognitive stimulation from music. Scientific American magazine published a study in 2008 by a Columbia University neuroscientist that determined “synchronizing music and movement — dance, essentially — constitutes a ‘pleasure double play.’ Music stimulates the brain’s reward centers, while dance ac-

Because of the variety of dance styles, from ballet, tap and hip-hop to social and ballroom dances such as the waltz, tango and swing, dance has something to offer those of all ages and abilities. Some physical benefits include improved balance, posture, strength, flexibility and coordination.

According to berkleywellness.com, dance therapy has helped the elderly improve their balance and gait and improve fitness and promote weight loss in a variety of age groups.

In the 2009 European Journal of

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Mental Health Benefits

tivates its sensory and motor circuits.”

With music and movement, dance can improve mood, fight depression and improve coping mechanisms.

With all the health and brain benefits, more people are strapping on their dance shoes and waltzing down to their local dance studios and recreation centers to take classes. Even high schools are offering classes. To begin enjoying the benefits of dance, search out your local dance venue!

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...continued from page 85 Because the ship was small, we got to know many of our fellow passengers by name and enjoyed complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. One of the nicest amenities was free Wi-Fi. If you’ve been on an ocean cruise one of the biggest complaints is the expense of having to purchase WiFi service and then the slow connection with the other thousands all trying to share the server. When clients reject a river cruise because of the cost, I provide them with my analysis that demonstrates they are very comparable in cost and the experience is generally much more fulfilling. Viking currently has early “We had a fantastic trip on the Viking River Cruise. We enjoyed the firstclass treatment from the staff. The excursions were very informative and well-organized. The scenery was amazing. We met so many wonderful people. We are looking forward to another Viking River Cruise on their ocean liner through the Mediterranean.”

— Richard Prescott, Arizona

booking discounts that provide two-for-one pricing, plus extremely attractive airfare.

The destinations you are traveling to on a river cruise are the experience instead of the ship being the destination. The pace on a river cruise is just not as frenetic, with the cultural experience being showcased instead of overenthusiastic cruise directors pushing reluctant passengers into playing games they have no interest in, or entertainment and food offered in every public room, so that the only quiet place is your cabin.

If I am going to stay in my cabin I want it to be on an Avalon Cruise where the beds face the window as I lie back on my pillows like a queen and gaze at the lights of Budapest Parliament across the Danube River. Avalon Waterways currently offers savings of $2,500 per couple plus $299 airfare on select departure dates in 2018 for a 15-day cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. Avalon’s fleets navigate rivers in Europe, South America and Asia.

If river cruising is attractive, but you want to stay closer to home, American Cruise Lines offers cruises along America’s famous and historical waterways such as the Mississippi and Hudson rivers on the East Coast, including some trips that are offered on a paddleboat. The Columbia and Snake rivers and Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

highlight itineraries in the Pacific Northwest.

Because river cruising has become so popular over the past few years, it surprises clients to find that some of the most sought-after destinations and coveted cabin space book up months and up to a year in advance. My advice to clients is to allow your travel agent to find the best deal for you, and book early.

In January, I will be returning to Paris for a week for my bi-yearly girlfriends’ trip. One of my friends has never been to Paris, so we are as excited to watch her reactions to my favorite stomping ground as we experience it all over again ourselves. She asked me, “Will we be able to take a night cruise on the Seine to see the Eiffel Tower, Norte Dame and all the sights from the river?” My answer: “Oh, honey, absolutely!” And, I promised we wouldn’t get seasick, and there will only be a small group on board.

If you’d like to learn more about river cruising, or have a destination you wish to explore, give me a call and allow me to help you sail away.

Victoria “Tori” Ward is a cruise and resort specialist with an interest in traveling and seeing the world since she first began to crawl. For more information on these trips and others, contact Tori at tori@roxtravel.com or 928-245-9968

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Readers Reveal

What are your favorite outdoor activities to stay healthy in Pinal County?

C

ongrats to Jesse Neitzel who is the winner of the Family 4-Pack of tickets to the Arizona Renaissance Festival! The package includes tickets for two adults and two children (ages 5-12), plus VIP parking.

His name was randomly selected from all of the comments that were submitted. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Reader Favorites •

• • • • • •

• • • •

ll the fun outdoor activities around A town and of course my daughter’s obsession with cheerleading with RCC! – Megan Hannah Bike riding all over. Stopping for grub and getting fresh air and exercise all in one. – Alvina Bahe Horseback riding at San Tan Regional Park. – Christine Yates My girls and I love to go on a walk around town. – Christine Yates We love going to the park and playing and having a picnic. – Candice Henry Walking, hiking, swimming!

– Roberta Johnson If we are home, scootering or jumping on the trampoline. We like to at least monthly, go on “mini adventures” to zoos, museums or hiking.

- Alison Gomez Having fun with my grandkids.

– Marsha Craven Hiking the trails in the mountains south of Casa Grande.

- Terri Rodriguez As a family we love hiking. My kidslove gymnastics/dance/baseball right now. - Lisa Keiser Our family loves going to Dave White Park! Between the racquet ball courts, basketball courts, playgrounds and just walking around the pond watching the ducks there is plenty to do there! – Jaimie Redd

•

• • • • • • •

CHLOE LYN VAN HAREN

y favorite outdoor activities include M swimming for sure! As well as…

Walking with my daughter in her stroller, jogging and basketball!

– Alexandra Grace Tiznado Taking my 3 boys to the park to play.

They keep me very active.

– Kellye Bonilla We like to go hiking and find new places like San Tan Regional Park!

– Pam Pauley Dickinson My family and I like hiking Casa Grande Mountain. – Elizabeth Kelly We love to go hiking. – Trisha Rosson Hiking. – Micaela Eliza Bojorquez Biking. – Salvador Arzola Gardening – April Edmond.

Our favorite family activity is taking care of our livestock and preparing for the Pinal County Fair. It teaches my kids responsibility, strength, respect and love for animals and keeps them and our entire family very busy outside where I believe children should truly be. 4H is an adventure every family should experience.

WE LOVE PINAL COUNTY – Chloe Lyn Van Haren

MEGHAN BREMER

Hiking! We also LOOOOVE the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch!!

It’s a favorite of ours.

- Meghan Bremer

Answers received via Facebook. One contest winner was selected to receive Renaissance Fair tickets. For chances to win future prize offerings, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/goldencorridorliving.

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

WINNER: Hiking Picacho Peak - Jesse Neitzel

JESSE NEITZEL AMBER ROBERTS

We go trail riding.

- Nicholas Koloske

Taking my dogs out to the country to run around playing with them.

– Amber Roberts

NICHOLAS KOLOSKE

Walking.

- Daniela Sanchez

DANIELA SANCHEZ

RONNIE RODRIGUEZ

5k run in Eloy.

- Ronnie Rodriguez

We love to explore and find amazing places! - Stacey Abe STACEY ABE

My family & I enjoy doing everything together! Our kids enjoy spending time at Villago Park. They love the playground, we can all go for a long walk around the lake while getting to enjoy some time with ducks. – Dreya Jaquez Barr DREYA JAQUEZ BARR

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

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Pinal County Fair Set to Run March 20-24

by Karen Searle, Executive Director, Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center

F

air time is just around the corner! Are you ready for cotton candy, thrilling carnival rides, amazing entertainment, youth livestock shows and so much more?

The fun happens March 20-24.

Music is always a big part of the fair. Headline entertainment is shaping up to be a great lineup. Be sure and watch our website for the official announcement of upcoming acts.

Don’t miss the new Clown College where everyone can hone their clowning skills. Balloon artist Steven Rosen will be creating his inflatable masterpieces. Even an old-fashioned flea circus will be on hand at this year’s fair.

Show off your best and participate.

Enter an item for judging. Jams, jellies, quilts, photographs and more will be on display. No matter what your

PINAL COUNTY FAIR MARCH 20-24

Specials WEDNESDAY, MAR. 20 2 FOR 1 ADMISSION FRIDAY, MAR. 22 | UNTIL 3 PM $4 SENIOR (55+) ADMISSION FREE CHILD ADMISSION KIDS 12 AND UNDER

DAILY

FREE ACTIVE MILITARY & VETERANS MILITARY ID IS REQUIRED

CARNIVAL

FOOD

hobby, consider entering. See how your talents stack up against your neighbors. Exhibitors from 4H and the general public work all year to compete for the coveted blue ribbon that comes with bragging rights.

At $8 for adults and $4 for children 6 to 12, daily admission is a bargain.

All the entertainment is included with admission, and the whole family can enjoy hours of fun. Budget-conscious guests are encouraged to take advantage of the several discounts the fair offers, from free admission and rides for kindergartners through sixth-graders participating in the Read to Ride program to discount senior day and free military admission. Save on unlimited rides by purchasing tickets in advance. Additional details on discounts can be found at pinalfairgrounds.com.

FUN

0 1 $ AY

E LL D V SA E A RID

SHOPPING

UNLIMITED RIDES $20

WHEN PURCHASED BEFORE MARCH 20 CHECK ONLINE FOR SALE LOCATIONS ON SALE MARCH 1ST - WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

LIVESTOCK

EXHIBITS

PINAL FAIRGROUNDS | 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner Rd. Casa Grande | www.pinalfairgrounds.com | 520-723-7881 90

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • FUN!

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Make 2019 Stress Free!!!

RENT with Coldwell Banker ROX Realty and have

peace of mind with our experienced management team.

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PINAL COUNTY PRESS A R IZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR A NDE • CO OLIDGE • ELOY • F LOR ENCE • M A R ICOPA

CONTINUED…

ADOT Recycles One Roadway for Use in Another

T

he Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is getting into the recycling game and saving the state money by reusing what normally would be sent to the dumpster.

As part of a widening project that will make 1-10 a six-lane freeway from Casa Grande to Tucson, materials removed from the old westbound lanes are being put to good use, serving as a foundation for new lanes.

ADOT spokesman Tom Herrmann says about 1 million square feet of asphalt is being removed from a 4-mile stretch of freeway, and new travel lanes are being built about 100 yards from the existing ones. As the lanes are torn out, the asphalt is ground and then laid down as the base for the new lanes without having to bring in fill dirt.

“Usually, we have to haul material in from some off-site location, which can be expensive,” says Dave Locher, ADOT’s regional engineer and project manager. “But in this case, the better answer was literally right in front of us.”

Asphalt from old lanes on I-10 is being reused to help build a widened stretch of I-10.

Often with large projects, crews have a “borrow pit” for when they need additional dirt.

“It’s usually located near the project in a site where moving earth doesn’t create additional environmental or economic concerns,” Herrmann says. “Hauling that extra dirt adds time and money to the project.”

In addition to the asphalt re-

cycling, ADOT will take the old guardrails that are in good condition and reuse them in repair projects around Arizona.

“The savings for us is considerable in both time and money,” Herrmann says. “Among the many recycling programs around Arizona, not one includes old freeways as a recyclable item.

By putting old I-10 to use in

building new I-10 in Pinal County, we’re doing our part.”

Construction of a dust-detection system will begin in spring and run from mile post 209 to 219. It will include electronic variable speed-limit signs used to warn drivers to slow down during a dust storm. The entire project should be complete by early fall.

CAC...cont. from page 60 liott says. Before this, students often graduated with too many credits that couldn’t always be transferred, costing them unnecessary time and money.

“Our team of dedicated employees, working collaboratively with community members continue to lay the groundwork for new and innovative methods of distinguishing CAC and providing a gateway to higher education and rewarding careers for students,” Elliott says.

The new Student Union building at CAC’s Signal Peak campus was designed to mirror the mountainous landscape.

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Read more news on page 98...

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 83 city. Do you think it was a mistake for the forefathers not to acquire the airport?

RICK HORST: I’m not in the position of letting the forefathers know they’ve made mistakes or not, but I will tell you this, having operated three airports in my career, they’re not all they’re cracked up to be. For us it’s about partnerships. It’s about making things available. It’s not about the city controlling and operating everything. It’s about creating partnerships where we can achieve the results that are needed for the community, but that doesn’t mean we have to own or operate it at the end of the day.

GC LIVING: So tell us about the city’s relationship, the partnerships in place with the neighboring Indian communities. AK-

94

OR LI GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR LIV VING ING • THE INTERV IE W

Chin because of proximity is closer to Maricopa in many, many ways.

RICK HORST: That’s true. And they have been very gracious in a lot of the grants they have provided that have supported either the citizens of Maricopa or the city of Maricopa itself. We’re neighbors to both the Gila Indian reservation as well as Ak-Chin, and we have to be a partner and work together to the benefit of all concerned.

GC LIVING: Ak-Chin has a very synergistic relationship with Maricopa. Their children go to the Maricopa schools. They’re shopping is primarily within the city. And then the city residents go to Ak-Chin for use of the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, the casino, the restaurants there. Do you see future endeavors between the two?

RICK HORST: Yes. You know, we need to

leverage our assets, and we don’t need to try to compete with them on a particular asset because then both would struggle. But at the same time we are pursuing mixed-use product with some hotels, restaurants, but also some higher-density housing, as well as some other boutique type shops in different things, which will complement the considerable assets of the Ak-Chin Indian Community.

GC LIVING: Let’s circle back. On your resume, you have a background in both economic development and tourism.

RICK HORST: Yes, true.

GC LIVING: How are you going to bring that into play for Maricopa?

RICK HORST: For starters, I’ve invited our parks and recreation director or community service director to join the economic team because I tell them we have to start working on event tourism. There are a lot of opportunities for us, you know, we have Copper Sky and we soon will be able to fully leverage the benefit of Copper Sky because, among other amenities, the developer will be constructing a new hotel on that site.

GC LIVING: What’s your short-term goal?

What, in one year, if you can say, “This is what I want to do, and I did it,” what would it be?

RICK HORST: First off, we want to make it easier to do business with Maricopa. We want to deregulate as much as possible.

We want to be more user-friendly. We want to be more flexible. We want to be faster.

You know, when you work with developers, investors, they have a choice where they spend their money and where they spend their time, and if we take too long in the process they’ll go somewhere else. So I think, deregulate, move faster, be more streamlined, empower employees to make decisions at the lowest level possible so we can move things forward.

GC LIVING: What’s your long-term goal?

RICK HORST: Well, obviously we want to have a community that has the ability to pay for itself, Economic development is really about creating community wealth. If we’re just doing it to increase the tax base for the city, we’re making a mistake. We have to create community well-being for everybody and set an environment where anyone can be successful if they so choose to work hard at it. 

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

Come Visit the

! e c a p s r e k a M D

id you know the Vista Grande Public Library has its very own Makerspace? This free community space is filled with a variety of arts and craft supplies available to the public. Everything from digital drawing tablets and sewing machines to markers, paints and jewelry kits can be found.

Art classes are offered at no charge to children ages 5-12 on Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m., and a Sci-Tech club, ages 7-12, meets on Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. Supplies for classes and the club are free; class space is limited to 12 students.

If you are interested in signing up your kids for a class, starting your own class or volunteering to teach a class, please call 520-421-8652. If you are interested in using the space or getting a tour, drop by the Vista Grande Library and ask library staff for more details. So come on down, try something new and create something at your library today!

Vista Grande Public Library 1556 N. Arizola Road

SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

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95

Readers Reveal

What are your favorite Arizona hiking and/or biking locations?

C

ongrats to Elizabeth Kelly who is the winner of the Family 4-Pack of tickets to the Arizona Renaissance Festival! The package includes tickets for two adults and two children (ages 5-12), plus VIP parking. Her name was randomly selected from all of the comments that were submitted.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

WINNER: We like hiking Casa Grande Mountain! – Elizabeth Kelly CG MOUNTAIN! – ALMA ESTRADA

Picacho Peak has a trail that’s great for kids.

- Marsha Craven

WE LOVE THE GRAND CANYON ALL TIMES OF THE YEAR! – TIMOTHY REITENBAUGH

Answers received via Facebook. One contest winner was selected to receive Renaissance Fair tickets. For chances to win future prize offerings, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/goldencorridorliving.

96

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THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

I LOVE GOING TO SUPERIOR AND HIKING PICKET POST – JOSH WUCHTERL

I LOVE TO HIKE ALONG THE MOGOLLON RIM. – ALVINA BAHE

We love hiking Girl Scout Mountain (North Mountain Park) because it’s more like rock climbing than walking trails, it’s super fun!

– Jaimie Redd Picacho peak is down the road and full of flowers during spring the view from the top is breathtaking!!!!

– Daniel Doyle Hammons II

M

y wife and I have road bikes but she’s pretty cautious about riding on the road because of the traffic. We’d love to hear about some beginner areas where we can just learn and cruise.

- Eugene Ward • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • CASA GRANDE MOUNTAINMICHAEL SALAZAR

Casa Grande Mountain is where I first started to hike, It was a hard hike for me considering I was carrying 311 pounds of myself. After I I’ve lost about 90 pounds I found myself doing harder hikes but till this

• •

Picacho Peak - Rose Marquez love the Echo Canyon trail and Silly Mountain - Kari Curtis Fossil Creek ♥ my family’s go to spot.

-Skylar Garza Hieroglyphics Trail in Queen Creek is a great hike! - Lee Brown Villago Park. - Dreya Jaquez Barr My neighborhood. – Judy Leslie Florence Mountain is a good hike and it’s pretty easy too. – Briana Lauren Dalfrey Picacho peak and silly mountain.

- Leslie Sixkiller-Davis Catalina State Park. Canyon Loop Trail.

Short, but enjoyable. By the time I discovered this trail, I could no longer do much hiking. This trail satisfied my love of nature. Now I cannot even do this.

- Donna Dennis Foster Picacho peak is our favorite place to hike!

But for a quick hike we like to hike “F” mountain. - Lisa Henning Hatch My boyfriend and I hiked 7 falls in Tucson and it has to be my favorite hike ever.

- Micaela Eliza Bojorquez South Mountain & Black Canyon .

- Alexandra Grace Tiznado Picacho Peak for hiking and Mt Lemmon for biking. – Sahara Wa Picacho Peak!!!!! – Deanna Smith Picacho Peak...... especially in the Spring.

– Jennilyn Noack Sommers We enjoy hiking Picacho peak!

– Stacey Abe Casa Grande mountain, Hannah trail.

Looking forward to exploring picacho peak soon. – Heather N. Roberto Havasupi hike all time favorite. But day hike the Superstition mountains.

– Rachael Feldmeier

day Casa Grande mountain is my favorite so far mostly for sentimental reasons, Girl scout is my runner up though.

- Michael Salazar SPRING 2019 • THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION

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PINAL COUNTY PRESS A R IZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR A NDE • CO OLIDGE • ELOY • F LOR ENCE • M A R ICOPA

CONTINUED…

Is a Citywide Transit System in Casa Grande’s Future?

C

asa Grande is looking into getting its own transit system, but it’s unclear if this will be a viable option for the City or if enough riders would use the system.

With the recent completion of a two-year study by CivTech, a Scottsdale-based transportation consulting firm that focused on possible bus routes, van service and other options, the Casa Grande City Council says it still needs more information before moving ahead with any recommendations.

Transit options include buses, voucher systems (taxi, Uber, Lyft), demand-response only, van pooling and fixed routes that are either contracted (turnkey) or municipal run. Dawn Cartier, president of CivTech, says a turnkey service would be more suitable for Casa Grande based on its current needs. According to the study, 91 percent of the public polled thinks a transpor-

tation system is needed in Casa Grande and 74 percent say they would use it.

The City is eligible for about $850,000 in annual federal funding for a transit system, but Casa Grande would still be expected to pay some of the costs for services offered. “The City’s financial obligation would be close to $25,000 a year and up, along with an additional $100,000 annually,” says Duane Eitel, traffic engineer for Casa Grande.

Various bus routes being considered include The Promenade at Casa Grande, Florence Boulevard, Pinal Avenue Cottonwood Lane, as well as service to the industrial and downtown areas. No routes have been finalized, and even if the proposed timeline for the system is approved, transit wouldn’t be up and running until 2020.

A public meeting will take place in October with further follow up by the Council in December or January.

Criminal Justice Reform is a Slow Process

C

rime rates in Arizona may be falling, but incarceration rates are going up, says Pinal County Attorney Kent Volkmer. And while numerous advocacy groups, community organizations and Arizona lobbyists have been pushing for criminal justice reform, Volkmer says there’s no easy way to go about this.

“There’s a big push right now to release a lot of people that are currently in prison, but it’s not that simple,” he said during a recent luncheon at the Coolidge Chamber of Commerce. “It will take more than releasing a portion of the prison population.”

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Recidivism a Big Concern Many prisoners released are in danger of recidivism — reoffending and returning to prison. “When you go to prison, you lose your house, your job, your connections to society,” Volkmer says. “So we have these people who come back out, who have no place to go, who have no money, no job, being put back into this negative environment that causes the problems in the first place.”

Drug offenders make up a high percentage of the inmate population, and many are dealing with addiction, yet only a small portion of inmates are receiving treatment. “We know

Pinal County Attorney Kent Volkmer talks about criminal justice reform at a Coolidge Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

they’re going in with drug addiction issues, we know very few are getting treatment, and they’re not getting a lot of treatment. We know they’re coming back into our community,” Volkmer says.

“I don’t believe every person who commits a crime needs to go to jail,” the county attorney says. Volkmer encourages the use of diversion, specialty courts, adult probation and

prison to hold offenders accountable while giving them the skills necessary to reintegrate into society successfully.

“I want to make sure that the public understands, we live in a good time,” Volkmer says. “We always think ‘it was so much better when we were kids; it was so much better when our kids were kids.’ That’s not true.

As far as pure safety goes, we are actually safer.”

THE MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION • SPRING 2019

City of Maricopa, AZ

Economic Development Guide MaricopaEDA.com

WHY Why Maricopa?

Updated letter to come

Greetings Business Executives and Owners, We invite you to learn more about Maricopa, Arizona - a New American City just 15 years young in the making but wildly and justifiably ambitious in its aspirations. Located 35 minutes from Downtown Phoenix - the heart of one of the nation's most dynamic and thriving metropolitan areas - Maricopa represents extraordinary opportunities for business growth and profitability.

Situated at the epicenter of Maricopa and Pinal counties, Maricopa's strategic location offers a vibrant, family-friendly and favorable cost environment for people and business. Our population of 52,000 is part of a larger market of 4.7+ million people.

Maricopans are among the most highly educated In the US, with more than 46 percent of our adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.

In Maricopa, the business, government, education and civic sectors work closely together to plan for and create opportunities that will grow a sustainable economy one that reflects the most advanced technologies in the world and at the same time retains the very qualities that make Maricopa a truly wonderful place in which to live, raise a family, be educated and do business.

All Maricopans - whether they are individuals, business executives or owners - are rightfully proud of this wonderful community they call home. Maricopa is a city that offers an unparalleled, outstanding and safe quality of life; a vibrant spirit of community service, and strong public-private partnerships that welcome business with open arms and responsive, business friendly services. Our SmartGov business permitting process is among the most advanced in the country, and technology is imbedded in how we do business.

The Maricopa Economic Development Alliance brings together business, government and education to champion quality and responsible economic development for our community. We welcome the opportunity to personally connect with you and introduce Maricopa to you, and stand ready to work with you to explore the abundant and unique offerings that our city can deliver to your business and bottom line.

Sincerely,

John D. Schurz Chairman and CEO MEDA

2

CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Christian Price Mayor City of Maricopa

CHAIRMAN

Board of Directors

BOARD SECRETARY

BOARD TREASURERÂ

MARICOPA CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Christian Price Mayor Mr. John D. Schurz President/General Manager Orbitel Communications, LLC

Mr. James F. Kenny President El Dorado Holdings

D. Brett Benedict CEO and General Manager Electrical District No. 3

Henry Wade Vice Mayor

Ms. Denyse Airheart Economic Development Director City of Maricopa

Hon. Marvin L. Brown Councilmember City of Maricopa

Mr. Ron L. Fleming President Global Water Resources

Mr. Rick Horst City Manager City of Maricopa

Mr. Ryan Hutchison, MBA, BSIE Senior Director Planning Banner Health

Mr. Timothy Kanavel Director, Pinal County Economic Development

Hon. Robert Miguel Chairman, Ak-Chin Indian Community

Dr. Tracey Lopeman Superintendent, Maricopa Unified School District #20

Marvin L. Brown Councilmember

Julia R. Gusse Councilwoman

Vincent Manfredi Councilmember

Hon. Christian Price Mayor City of Maricopa

Mr. Mike L. Richey President Maricopa Ace Hardware

Mr. Adam Saks President & CEO, Dynamic Entertainment Group, UltraStar Multi-tainment Centers

ADVISORS TO BOARD

Mr. Daniel Wolf District Manager/Division Operations, Southwest Gas Corporation Nancy Smith Councilmember

Dr. Ioanna T. Morfessis Senior Advisor to the Board of Directors

Mr. Daniel Weinman System Vice President-Strategy & Planning, Banner Health

Rich Vitiello Councilmember

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS Statistics and Data.............................5 Market Access................................. 12 Land Use........................................... 14 Infrastructure................................... 18 Transportation................................. 22 Land Availability.............................. 24 Workforce......................................... 26 Education.......................................... 30 Healthcare........................................ 34 Residential Development.............. 38 Commercial Development in the News........................................ 42 Maricopa Construction in the News........................................ 46 Recreation........................................ 48 Maricopa Economic Development Alliance................. 50

History

M

aricopa has a long and rich history in the region, with early references dating back to a 1694 journal entry of Father Eusebio Francisco Kino. During the 1800s, Maricopa was a thriving metropolis on the Butterfield Stage Line that stretched from San Antonio to San Diego as well as a significant railroad station at the junction of the Southern Pacific Railroad and the Maricopa & Phoenix Railroad (M&P).

The 1900s brought a shift to agriculture. Cotton, grains, fruits and vegetables and beef thrived in the central desert.

In 1987, Mike Ingram with El Dorado Holdings purchased John Wayne’s El Dorado Ranch. Lacking infrastructure, El Dorado Holdings spearheaded the expansion of Maricopa Road from the then twolane county road to State Route 347, part of the state highway system. Transportation infrastructure provided necessary access. With real estate pricing rising in the metropolitan Phoenix area, Maricopa was successfully marketed as an affordable master-planned community, setting national sales records when Rancho El Dorado opened in 2002.

Maricopa’s population rose more than 4,000 percent from a 2000 census population of 1,040 to 43,482 in 2010. In 2003, Maricopa incorporated and became the 88th city in the state of Arizona.

Produced & Published in conjunction with ROX Media, LLC | 844.729.9769 | roxmediagroup.net Elaine Earle, Publisher | 520.426.2074 | cfo@roxco.com Every effort is made to make this publication as accurate as possible. City of Maricopa Economic Development and ROX Media LLC. & affiliated companies (collectively, the “Publishers”) will assume no responsibility for errors, changes, representations or omissions.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any way without the express written permission of the Publishers. Users of this publication are encouraged to verify all data and information of material interest to the user. The Publishers make no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised in this publication. Unless otherwise noted, all images are courtesy of City of Maricopa. Advertisements are provided by the subject companies and the Publishers shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s rights therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved.

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CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Source: Library of Congress

Why Maricopa? #1 best cities for families in AZ 2019

3 A-Rated Schools Niche.com 2018 *

4th-time Playful City honoree

*based on US Census, FBI and OpenStreetMaps homesnacks.net 2019

Kaboom.org 2018

homesnacks.net 2019

Niche.com 2018

#2 Fastest Growing City 2019

Top

3 safest cities in Arizona

Safehome.org 2016

6th most diverse suburb Top 10 most affordable place to buy a home in Arizona

SmartAsset.com 2018

Maricopa has been the state’s fastestgrowing community over the last decade, and as its population continues to grow, industries are following.

This growth is also a testament to businesses recognizing the city’s strategic location and commitment to research and development. The economic future of Maricopa is bright.

— Doug Ducey Governor, State of Arizona

As the City of Maricopa celebrates its 15th year, your leaders are staying focused on the original vision of building a strong economy based on local good paying jobs. As Maricopa continues to grow, the county is there to help put together the building blocks of a new economy that will serve us for decades to come.

— Anthony Smith District 4 Supervisor, Pinal County

Maricopa has become a hotbed for the agritech industry, with its thriving cluster of businesses and research facilities, including the USDA’s AridLand Agricultural Research Center and the University of Arizona’s Maricopa Agricultural Center. The city’s research and development capabilities aren’t limited to agritech, it is also home to two international automotive companies’ proving grounds and the site of the state’s first ethanol plant.

Maricopa has strategically positioned itself as an ideal location to develop new technologies.

— Sandra Watson President & CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority

Maricopa is the nexus where people, ideas and opportunity converge in Arizona. Strategically located in the center of Maricopa and Pinal counties, our city is fast-becoming a hotbed of innovation, new technologies and unparalleled business opportunities across all sectors of the economy.

— Christian Price Mayor, City of Maricopa

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

5

WHY Why Maricopa?

Population As a new American city – just 15 years old – Maricopa is a sophisticated community with a small town, neighborly vibe. People have moved here because of the city’s quality of life, affordability and vast range of things to do where they can connect with their neighbors and all Maricopans to have fun, learn and recreate.

52,117 Population Increase

161,000

2000-2019

5,000% 52,117 43,482

1,040 YEAR 2000

2010

2019

— Dan Weinman System Vice President Strategy & Planning, Banner Health

Incorporated

2003 as the 88th city

in Arizona Size:

41 Square Miles

Age1 0-19

Male

49.4%

28.7%

Average Rainfall:

60+

7.98”

50.6%

20-39 40-59

89°/54°

Female

33.6%

Average Temperature (High/Low):

PROJECTED 2 2050

23.5% 14.2%

1 - Source: ESRI 2 - Source: 2016 MAG Socioeconomic Projections

6

CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Workforce

Transportation Residents spend an average of

29 minutes

commuting to work Maricopa is served by

16

Median age:

33

1

airports within 50 miles Interstates can be accessed

11 miles away.

Rail can be accessed within the community.

Maricopa has a labor force of

23,519 people, with an unemployment rate of 4.4%..

Education

26% of population age 25+ have a Bachelors Degree or higher Some college or higher

Education by household (heads of household)

89%

Bachelors Degree or higher

46%

Top jobs by occupation:

15.2% Office & Admin Support 13.7% Sales 10.9% Executive, Managers and

Administrators

8.4% Food Preparation, Serving 7% Education, Training/Library

Master’s Degree or higher

20%

Blue Collar

42%

White Collar

58%

Source: Applied Geographic Solutions an GIS Planning 2018 via the City of Maricopa, http://www. maricopamatters.com/community.html

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

7

WHY Why Maricopa?

Housing

20,574 households

Household Size

51%

1

1-2

33%

81.6%

3-4

Owners

18.5%

Median Sold Price 2 Resale Homes

Renters

• 2014 - $140,750 • 2016 - $166,000 • 2018 - $185,495 • 2019 - $209,900* *January 2019

Income & Spending¹ Households in Maricopa earn an average income of:

$80,801 8

CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

$ $ $

Pinal County: $52,628 Maricopa is

33% higher

Arizona: $53,510 Maricopa is

31% higher

U.S.: $57,652 Maricopa is

21% higher

A Look at Arizona

Businesses & Jobs

95.6% Employed

4.4%

Unemployed

800+

Maricopa has a total of businesses** and 4.7 million in Greater 1 Phoenix region . In 2017, the leading industries in Maricopa were: • Retail

• Health Care

• Accommodation and Food Services

• Social Services

L

ow taxes and small state government means Arizona offers one of the lowest costs of doing business in the U.S., according to the Arizona Commerce Authority. The state also boasts a robust, skilled workforce and ease of transportation to local and international markets.

18.5% less than national average per capita income going to taxes 2ND LOWEST IN NATION

Government employees per 100 residents (Source, 2018 ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index)

8TH MOST TAX-FRIENDLY IN NATION In 2018, property taxes (Source, kiplinger.com 2018)

• Education

15TH MOST FAVORABLE IN NATION Unemployment Insurance Tax (Source, 2018 Tax Foundation State Business Tax Climate Index)

Jobs***

13TH LOWEST IN NATION

Retail:

778 Jobs

1-4 Employees

58 Establishments

5-9 Employees 10-19 Employees

Accommodation & Food Services:

20-49 Employees 50-99 Employees

758 Jobs

45 Establishments

100-249 Employees 250-499 Employees

Education:

Health Care & Social Services:

25

120

664 Jobs Establishments

623 Jobs

Establishments

1 - Source: ESRI

**Per number of local business licenses.

2 - Source: Arizona Regional MLS

***by NAICS codes per ESRI

Average Workers’ Compensation Costs (per $100 of payroll) (Source, 2018 ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index)

+2 MILLION

Number of Workers Living in Greater Phoenix Area Alone (Approximately 35 Miles from Maricopa)

65 MILLION

Number of people a one-day drive is capable of reaching

+100 CITIES +4 COUNTRIES

(Including Mexico, Canada, England and Germany) Served by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

800 TONS

Daily Amount of Cargo Handled at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Daily MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

9

Pinal Pinal County’s Pinal County’s County’s 2017 growth 2017 rate 2017 growth growth rate rate tops in state tops tops in in state state By

By KYLEY KYLEY SCHULTZ SCHULTZ By KYLEY SCHULTZ

“Both County “Both Maricopa Maricopa County County Maricopa and Pinal County are and Pinal County County are are doing exceptionally doing exceptionally exceptionally well in because well in growth growth because because growth they are the economic they are the the economic economic bases for the state.” bases for the the state.” state.”

Economist Elliott Economist Elliott Economist Elliott Pollack said.

Pollack Pollack said. said.

Findout out why why companies companies and Find Find out why companies and people people are moving moving to to Pinal Pinal County are are moving to Pinal County

AFFORDABLEHOUSING HOUSING AFFORDABLE AFFORDABLE HOUSING • Themedian medianlist listprice priceper persquare squarefoot foot • The • The median list price per square foot Pinal County $114 ininPinal County isis$114 inSignificantly Pinal County is $114 lower thanthe the Significantly lower than Significantly lower than the PhoenixMetro Metroaverage averageofof$154. $154.

Phoenix Phoenix Metro average of $154.

BUSINESSFRIENDLY FRIENDLY BUSINESS BUSINESS FRIENDLY • Expeditedpermitting permitting • Expedited

• •Expedited permitting programs for Businessassistance assistance • Business programs for • Business assistance thosewho who qualify programs for those qualify who qualify Veryaggressive aggressive economicdevelopment developmentefforts efforts •those • Very economic aggressive economic development efforts • •Very Low tax rates • Low tax rates • Low tax rates

CONVENIENT CONVENIENT CONVENIENT HUBS TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION HUBS TRANSPORTATION HUBS • Interstates 10 and 8 converge in Pinal • Interstates 10 and 8 converge in Pinal County County

• Interstates 10 and 8 converge in Pinal County Easy access access to West West and East ••Easy to and East Coasts Coasts • Easy to line West and East Coasts Unionaccess Pacific rail rail goes through Pacific line goes through Pinal Pinal County County ••Union Pacific rail lineairports goes through Pinal County •• Union Two international in Phoenix • Two international airports in Phoenix and and • Tucson Two international airports in Phoenix and Tucson Tucson

PLENTY TO TO DO DO PLENTY PLENTY TO Five state state parks parks and and DO ••Five

• Five state of parks and hundreds miles of trails trails hundreds of miles of hundreds of miles of trailstype of county!

We're aa get-off-the-couch get-off-the-couch We're type of county!

We're a get-off-the-couch type of county!

Formore moreinformation informationvisit visitpinalcountyaz.gov pinalcountyaz.govor or email email timothy.kanavel@pinalcountyaz.gov timothy.kanavel@pinalcountyaz.gov For information visit pinalcountyaz.gov or email timothy.kanavel@pinalcountyaz.gov ELOY, more AZ 24 For ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

24 ELOY, A Z 24 ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018 ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

ADVANTAGES Market Access

GROUND

Located between Phoenix and Tucson, Maricopa offers convenient access to major markets throughout the Southwest. Interstate 10, the southernmost coast-to-coast highway in the United States, is just 15 minutes from Maricopa along State Route 347 and directly connects to Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles. Interstate 8, immediately south of Maricopa, runs west to San Diego and merges with Interstate 10 to the east.

RAIL

Between 45 and 55 freight trains operate daily through Maricopa along the Union Pacific Railroad’s Sunset Route. This route carries nearly 20 percent of Union Pacific’s total freight traffic and stretches from Los Angeles to El Paso. In Maricopa, the route parallels the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and there are many available commercially-zoned sites with potential for rail-to-site.

Maricopa also offers passenger rail access and is the greater Phoenix area’s Amtrak hub. Amtrak’s Orlando-Los Angeles Sunset Limited has a scheduled stop in Maricopa, the only stop in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

AIR

Maricopa is just 32 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, one of the 10 busiest airports in the United States. More than 120,000 passengers, 1,200 aircraft, and 800 tons of cargo pass through Sky Harbor each day.

The airport is served by 18 major airlines with daily service to 100 domestic and 22 international destinations.

12 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Proximity Regional Accessibility Miles from...

• Casa Grande, AZ: 20 miles • Chandler, AZ: 25 miles • Scottsdale, AZ: 36 miles • Tucson, AZ: 90 miles • Yuma, AZ: 158 miles • Flagstaff, AZ: 179 miles • Las Vegas, NV: 336 miles • Salt Lake City, UT: 694 miles • Denver, CO: 885 miles

Phoenix/Maricopa County Metroplex To Flagstaff 17

Scottsdale

101

To Los Angeles

Phoenix

10

101

202

Mesa 60

CHANDLER TECH

Gilbert

CORRIDOR

Chandler

202

North

Maricopa 10

238

347

8

To Yuma & San Diego

Casa Grande

Salt Lake City Denver

Las Vegas Kingman Los Angeles

Laughlin

Winslow

Prescott

Albuquerque

Phoenix

San Diego Mexicali

Flagstaff

Yuma

Maricopa Tucson El Paso

100 miles

60

200 miles

Guaymas

Hermosillo Coolidge

300 miles

Tucson

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

13

ADVANTAGES Land Use Maricopa is experiencing a resurgence in growth evident by the recent influx of commercial development. The availability of new retail amenities continues to add value to the quality of life in Maricopa.

SR 238

— Denyse Airheart Economic Development Director, City of Maricopa

OUR COMMITMENTS

100

PERCENT OF CLIENTS FROM WORD OF MOUTH AND REPUTATION

580

TRAINING HOURS INVESTED IN OUR PEOPLE IN 2017

27

We have provided professional consulting services for nearly a decade including 100+ projects engineered in PINAL COUNTY.

CHARITABLE COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS DONATED TO IN 2017

| www.hilgartwilson.com | 2141 E. Highland Ave. Ste. 250, Phoenix, AZ 85016 | 602.490.0535 14 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

FUTURE LAND USE

Historical Center

Available Land

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

15

ADVANTAGES

PLANNING AREA SPHERE OF INFLUENCE

Land Use - 2040 Vision - Strategic Plan

C

itizens of Maricopa have awareness that their community is growing very quickly, public services and facilities are working to keep up, commercial retail and employment related development is lagging behind the development of new neighborhoods.

Understanding growth is a regional reality; the public wants to be sure that the future Maricopa is better, not just bigger. Retaining small city attributes of friendliness,

respect for community heritage, family-oriented, safe neighborhoods and traditional civic events are important to most residents.

Planning vision comes from thoughtful, enthusiastic public participation. The following statement is from the City’s 2040 Vision Strategic Plan using the concepts and words of citizens to define the broad mission that will benefit all.

Our Vision for the Year 2040: The City of Maricopa is a family friendly, vibrant community that offers diverse opportunities in culture, technology, education, business, entrepreneurship, transportation, entertainment, and recreation for all

16 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

ages. A close knit community of committed leaders, engaged citizens, and diverse partners with pride in our history, and a shared vision for a prosperous future.

Historical Center

Available Land

FUTURE LAND USE Source: http://www.maricopa-az.gov/web/gponline-maps/gp-printable-maps MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

17

ADVANTAGES Land Use - Infrastructure

INTRODUCTION

Maricopa has the infrastructure needed to service any new and growing business with a strong and well-maintained transportation system, reliable utilities, and an extensive, high speed telecommunications network.

BROADBAND:

ORBITEL & CENTURYLINK Orbitel Communications and CenturyLink maintain state-of-the-art communications networks in Maricopa and offer high speed internet, telephone, and television services to business and residential customers.

www.orbitelcom.com www.centurylink.com

The Greater Maricopa community has an unmatched quality of life, an incredibly talented and highly educated workforce and a strategic location with the kinds of amenities that businesses of today and the future need and want for their operations and employees. — Adam Saks President and Chief Operating Officer, Dynamic Entertainment Group

ELECTRIC:

ED3

Electrical District No. 3 is the regional provider of electrical power and offers low electric costs for large commercial users and competitive rates for small businesses and residential users.

www.ed3online.org

NATURAL GAS:

SOUTHWEST GAS

Southwest Gas serves more than 1.8 million customers in Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Rebate and energy-efficiency programs are available to commercial and industrial businesses in Arizona.

www.swgas.com

WATER:

GLOBAL WATER RESOURCES

Global Water owns and operates regulated water and wastewater utilities in Maricopa. The company is committed to water reclamation and reuse, and uses reclaimed water to irrigate neighborhood parks, schools, and golf courses.

www.gwresources.com

18 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

ELECTRICAL DISTRICT NO. 3 MISSION STATEMENT ED3 is committed to providing quality service, competitive power rates, sound business practices and a safe distribution system to the communities we serve.

QUICK FACTS Established:

Power Suppliers:

1926 Revenue:

SPPA, SEMPRA, SRP and Hydro

$70,000,000

Territory:

Total Assets:

350 Square Miles

$224,000,000

Miles of Line:

Meters:

1,127 63% Overhead 37% Underground

25,432 Employees:

66

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER 19756 N. John Wayne Parkway #101 Maricopa, AZ 85139 Tel: (520) 424-9021 (24 HOURS) customerservice@ed-3.org Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30a.m. - 5:30p.m.

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 41630 W. Louis Johnson Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138 Tel: (520) 424-9311

22590 N. Powers Parkway Maricopa, AZ 85138 866-940-1102

www.gwresources.com

Reliable 3x

Growth potential based on assured water supply availability

Renewable Gallons of recycled water produced annually

900+ MILLION

Total Water Management An integrated approach to managing the entire water cycle by owning and operating water, wastewater and recycled water utilities within the same geographic area.

TWM conserves water by using the right water for the right use.

Reusable Percentage of wastewater beneficially reused in Maricopa

97%

Your business... our connections!

Focus on growth and success with Orbitel Business services.

We supply the cutting-edge telecommunications tools and expert support team you need to increase productivity and profits.

BUSINESS SERVICES INTERNET | TELEPHONE | TELEVISION For residential, we have speeds up to 200Mbps, over 120 High Definition channels and digital local and long distance telephone with all popular features.

Founded in 1872, our company has been helping businesses succeed for almost 150 years. * Lightning fast Internet speeds * Can connect with fiber direct or modem service * If Orbitel is not currently in your business, we can build to your business * Digital phone, multiple lines Orbitel is active in the community, and proudly supports Maricopa schools, nonprofits, HOA’s and youth sports.

Orbitel Communications 21116 N. John Wayne Parkway, Suite B-9 Maricopa, AZ 85139

OrbitelCom.com | 520.568.8890

ADVANTAGES Transportation

15 Miles to I-10 18 Miles to I-8 20 Miles to Casa Grande 36 Miles to Downtown Phoenix

36 Miles to Downtown Scottsdale

79 Miles to Tucson Less than 25

Miles

to Chandler Tech Corridor CLOSE PROXIMITY TO

1 Rail Line 2 Interstate Highways 3 State Highways

22 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

ILE S 16 M 0E RS TAT E1 INT

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

23

ADVANTAGES Land Use 5

LAND AVAILABILITY

Economic Development Department

The City of Maricopa’s Economic Development Department is a great resource for site selection information needs. Visit www.maricopa-az.gov/web/ economicdevelopment

Fast Track Permitting

Recognizing the need for businesses to be able to relocate and expand rapidly and efficiently, the City implemented a Fast Track Permitting Program in 2007. The City is committed to providing a businessfriendly environment and is continuously looking to further streamline and simplify its governmental permitting processes.

Pro-Business Climate

Maricopa offers many advantages, including pro-business local leadership, access to a highly-skilled labor pool, and low employer taxes and operating costs.

Areas with “shovel-ready” sites available Areas with abundant land and infrastructure

24 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

4

4

Estrella Gin Business Park

4

Investment attracted to the local community is a metric of the health of the local economy. The City has worked to secure developers for two key projects, Estrella Gin Business Park, the City’s first business park, and Copper Sky Mixed Use Complex, a popular destination with high density housing and retail amenities.

— Denyse Airheart Economic Development Director, City of Maricopa

1

2

Ak-Chin Regional Airport: Sec 14,Anderson Rd Industrial zoning

White Wing: S of Hwy either side of White & Parker

1

2 3

Copper Sky Commercial Center including hotel

3

6 7

3

5

APEX Motor Club

5

2

1

6

7

City Center

6

The Oasis

7 7

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

25

ADVANTAGES Highly Skilled and Educated Workforce

Maricopa offers employers access to a highly talented workforce. Maricopa’s labor pool is both young and well-educated. Beyond Maricopa, employers can easily recruit from the entire Phoenix metropolitan area, which has a diverse, active workforce of more than two million people.

92% of residents own their homes, which facilitates workforce stability.

More than

77% of residents

have lived in Maricopa for at least 5 years.

79% work outside of Maricopa, 85% of those people would prefer a local job, and 44% would even consider changing their career or accepting reduced pay.

97% are in favor of employer recruitment.

26 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

MAJOR EMPLOYERS 1. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort* - Casino 2. Maricopa Unified School District - School 3. Walmart - Department Store 4. City of Maricopa - Government Office 5. Fry’s Food Store - Grocers-Retail 6. Volkswagen Proving Grounds - Automotive Testing 7. Pinal Feeding Company - Livestock Feeding 8. McDonald’s (3 locations) - Fast Food 9. Ak-Chin Farms* - Farm 10. Basha’s - Grocers-Retail * Located outside of Maricopa city limits but within planning area.

SOURCE: http://www.maricopa-az.gov/web/business-environment/labor-force

OTHER MAJOR EMPLOYERS Arizona Castings, Inc.* - Aluminum Foundry Banner Health Medical Center - Healthcare Electrical District No. 3* - Utility Legacy Traditional School- School Nissan Technical Center - Arizona Testing Center - Automotive Testing Pinal Energy, LLC - Ethanol Production Scotts Miracle-Gro - Nitrogenous Fertilizers Sequoia Pathway Academy - School Southern Dunes Golf Club - Golf Course The Duke at Rancho El Dorado - Golf Course University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center* - Agricultural Research USDA Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center* - Agricultural Research

ADVANTAGES Business Resources Maricopa Economic Development Department The City of Maricopa’s Economic Development Department leads the City’s business attraction and retention efforts, and is the point of contact for people seeking local assistance with site Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) Arizona Commerce Authority is the state’s community and economic development authority.

ACA’s focus is on recruitment of quality companies Workforce Development Arizona Workforce Connection, a statewide system of workforce development partners, and Central Arizona College have partnered to create a one-stop center that provides a range of free services for PiGreater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) Greater Phoenix Economic Council is a publicprivate economic development partnership that is committed to leveraging regional resources to Maricopa Economic Development Alliance (MEDA) Maricopa Economic Development Alliance is a private, non-profit organization that supports the economic development efforts of the City through a

selection, market and demographic information, and business resources.

www.maricopa-az.gov

and jobs to Arizona and expansion of companies already in the state.

www.azcommerce.com

nal County employers seeking access to skilled new hires or existing worker training resources.

www.arizonaworkforceconnection.com

develop a high performance economy by attracting high quality investments and jobs.

www.gpec.org

public-private partnership.

www.MaricopaEDA.com

Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) classes to help startup businesses with everything Central Arizona College, Pinal County’s community from creating a business plan to recruiting and college system, operates a no-cost Small Business training workers.

Development Center that offers one-on-one confidential counseling and training workshops and www.centralaz.edu Maricopa Chamber of Commerce The Maricopa Chamber of Commerce was established to help the local business community network, create professional development and

advertising opportunities, and assist entrepreneurs in establishing their businesses.

www.maricopachamber.org

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

27

Maricopa Campus For more than 45 years, Central Arizona college has been serving and educating the diverse communities of Pinal County. With five campuses and three centers located strategically throughout the county, CAC provides accessible, educational, economic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities for those of all ages.

www.centralaz.edu

CAC believes that college should be a reality for everyone. The Promise for the Future program was created with this in mind.

Any eighth grade student who takes the Promise Pledge, finishes high school with a minimum 2.75 GPA, and completes 20 hours of community service will earn tuition-free college from CAC after all other financial aid is applied. This guaranteed tuition-free education has helped motivate students to finish high school and increase county graduation rates.

Education That Begins with the End in Mind CAC works collaboratively with Maricopa and Pinal County businesses to develop certificates and degrees that meet their needs and place students on career paths for lifelong success.

Curriculum developed with the “end in mind� takes into consideration the jobs available in Pinal County. Maricopa is a growing community in need of an educated and innovative populace to enter the workforce and attract business to the area. Tech jobs will be particularly crucial, and STEM opportunities at CAC give students the foundation required to get hired.

Industry Recognized Credentials

93%

2021 Goal-100%

CAC Students Residing in Pinal Co.

77%

Student Satisfaction

94%

2021 Goal-95%

ADVANTAGES Education Preschool through 12th Grade

M

aricopa residents have access to quality education through the Maricopa Unified School District system and the charter school options available in the community.

Maricopa Unified School District (MUSD) is comprised of six elementary schools, two middle schools, and a high school with a total enrollment of over 7,200. In March 2012, the school district opened a $12.2 million, state-of-the-art performance hall at Maricopa High School that seats 750 people and features two catwalks, computer-controlled equipment, multiple LED lights, and 60-foot stage.

MUSD offers dynamic programming and extracurricular opportunities to encourage students to explore and discover their passions. Blended learn-

ing, STEAM opportunities, and new online education opportunities are just a few programs that make MUSD stand out in our community. MUSD offers three tuition based full day preschool options for three and four year olds. Full-day kindergarten is available at no cost to parents. Before and after school programs available from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Charter Schools include Holsteiner Agricultural School (K-6), Graysmark Academy (K-8), Leading Edge Academy (K-12), Legacy Traditional School (K-8), and Sequoia Pathway Academy (K-12). In addition, A-ranked Heritage Academy (6-12) broke ground Q1 2019 and will be open for the 2019-20 school year.

Higher Education Central Arizona College

Central Arizona College has five full-service campuses and four regional centers strategically located throughout Pinal County. Programs offered at CAC include Agricultural Science, Renewable Energy, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Nursing, and Health. The Maricopa Campus opened in 2013. www.centralaz.edu

Arizona State University

Arizona State University is one of the nation’s leading public research institutions with more than 73,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students on four campuses in the Phoenix area. Located 33 minutes from Maricopa. www.asu.edu

University of Arizona

University of Arizona has more than 40,000 undergraduate, graduate, professional, and medical students at its campus in central Tucson and is ranked 19th among all public universities by the National Science Foundation in R&D expenditures. Located 1 hour, 34 minutes from Maricopa. www.arizona.edu

30 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

A-RATED SCHOOLS IN MARICOPA Pima Butte Elementary School - A Butterfield Elementary School - A Legacy Traditional School - A

Business, government and education work well together in Maricopa, focusing on how we can leverage our collective strengths, resources and talents to continue to build a great city – one that offers the ability for children, youth, families and individuals to flourish and prosper.

— Dr. Tracey Lopeman Superintendent Maricopa Unified School District

GreatSchools.org

THE EARLY CHILDHOOD LEADER IN MARICOPA

PRESCHOOL NEW LOCATIONS AT SANTA ROSA &

SANTA CRUZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

WE OFFER

Certified Teachers, Licensed Facilities, Full-day Programming, Character Education, Early Reading, Physical Education, Music & Movement, Technology, and Arts

MUSD District Office 44150 W. Maricopa, Casa Grande Highway 520-568-5100 Ext. 1029

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

31

WHY MUSD?

WHY MUSD?

THE JESKE FAMILY Family members: Parents Derek and Timi Jeske, Taylor Jeske, 14, Haley Jeske, 12, Kiyah Jeske, 9, Austin Jeske, 8, Jackson Jeske, 7 Home: Senita Years in Maricopa: 5 Why MUSD? “In the schools in Maricopa, as with anything, you will get what you put into them, and we feel like we get so much more back on a daily basis. The teachers care about our kids and their success and it shows. The staff at MUSD attend each 504-plan meeting and we discuss, problem-solve issues and find solutions. As a family, we are very happy with the results. The staff from front office, teachers, counselors, medical staff and the amazing principals have been a blessing to our family and they all take the time to know you and your kids by name when you enter the school. Not only do they provide structure but are mentors and leaders that promote a healthy and safe learning environment for our kids and we know they are in the right place at MUSD.” — Timi

THE JESKE FAMILY

Family members: Parents Derek and Timi Jeske, Taylor Jeske, 14, Haley Jeske, 12, Kiyah Jeske, 9, Austin Jeske, 8, Jackson Jeske, 7 Home: Senita Photo

by Victor Moreno Years in Maricopa: 5 Why MUSD? “In the schools in Maricopa, as with anything, you will get what you put FAMILY into them, and we feel like we get so much more THE backCABRERA on a daily basis. The teachers care about our kids and their success and it shows.

The staff at MUSD attend each Family members: Parents Refugio Cabrera and Michele Lee Bandin, 504-plan meeting and we discuss, problem-solveJoycelyn issuesCabrera, and fi17nd solutions. As Home:from Ranchofront El Dorado a family, we are very happy with the results. The staff office, teachers, Years in Maricopa: 16 years counselors, medical staff and the amazing principals have been a blessing to our Why MUSD: “I have faith in the public school system and I family and they all take the time to know you andbelieve your inkids by name when you enter public schools. I feel the mentors curriculum and teachers the school. Not only do they provide structure butlikeare and leaders that help to teach students how to promote a healthy and safe learning environmentadapt, for our kidsa necessity and weinknow they are and that’s the real world.” — Refugio in the right place at MUSD.” — Timi Photo by Raquel Hedrickson

Photo by Victor Moreno

THE CABR

FUN FACTS $5,160 Value of free college tuition offered via CAC Promise for the Future

16% MUSD enrollment growth in last 5 years

381 2017 Maricopa High School graduates

$6.75 million Value in scholarships offered to MHS Class of 2017

3

Free after-school programs

68% Increase in volunteer hours from 2013-14

10

$20 million

Increased funding from voter-approved budget override

Consecutive years received awards for excellence in financial reporting

3,594

11

Laptops available for students

National Board Certified teachers in 2018

1

325

Of only 4 Arizona districts named AP Honor Roll District

Students participating in blended learning program

5

4

1st place finishers at DECA regional competition

MHS/CAC dual credit classes

28,480

19

2016-17 volunteer hours

Career & Technical Education classes

THE HYDE FAMILY Family members: Parents Bill and Karla Hyde, Charlee, 12, Asher 9 Home: Senita Years in Maricopa: 6 Why MUSD? “Asher and Charlee have both excelled. Asher really likes his school, and Charlee’s done amazing at MUSD schools.” — Karla Photo by Victor Moreno

Find out why others chose MUSD or post your own story at Facebook.com/MUSD20.

ADVANTAGES Healthcare

H

ealthcare is the leading industry for growth in Arizona in terms of the number and quality of jobs, according to Lee McPheters, a research professor of economics at Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business. Pinal County ranks 4th in Arizona counties for healthy behaviors, and thanks to a strong network of healthcare partners and collaborators, the community is poised to maintain its position.

General and Specialty Hospitals within 50 miles of Maricopa • Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital • Banner Casa Grande Medical Center • Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center • Barrow Neurological Institute • Cancer Treatment Centers of America • Cardon’s Children’s Medical Center • Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center • Chandler Regional Medical Center • Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center • Maricopa Medical Center, Phoenix • Mayo Clinic, Phoenix • Phoenix Children’s Hospital • Phoenix Indian Medical Center The City of Maricopa is committed to building a healthcare community that can service the growing needs of its many young families and expanding retiree population. The first steps have already been taken with the opening of the Banner Health Center in May 2012 and Dignity Health’s recent expansion into the community.

Source: http://www.maricopamatters.com/healthcare.html

34 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

BANNER HEALTH CENTER The first major medical facility in Maricopa, the center is the result of a public/private partnership between the City of Maricopa and Banner Health.

The center’s first phase is a 40,000 square foot facility providing primary and specialty medical care. The facility is prime for expansion as market demands increase.

Source: http://www.maricopamatters.com/healthcare.html

DIGNITY HEALTH URGENT CARE & DIGNITY HEALTH MEDICAL GROUP FAMILY PRACTICE Offering a variety of services including urgent care until 8 p.m., seven days a week, as well as primary care, family and internal medicine, and orthopedics Dignity Health is dedicated to providing quality medical care to Maricopa residents.

Source: https://locations.dignityhealth.org/dignity-health-medical-group-family-medicinemaricopa-maricopa-az

SUN LIFE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER Sun Life Family Health Center (SLFHC) is the largest provider of primary healthcare services in Pinal County and has been providing healthcare in Maricopa since 1980. In addition to family healthcare, SLFHC provides Integrated Behavioral Health and Pharmacy services.

SERVICES • Provides access to Family/General Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics and OB/GYN physicians.

• Ancillary services, including: * laboratory services * general X-ray imaging * patient education

SERVICES • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cancer Care Congenital Heart Center Family Medicine General Surgery and Trauma Services Heart Services Hepatology and Liver Transplant Internal Medicine Maternal Fetal Medicine Norton Thoracic Institute Orthopedics Pediatrics Primary Care Women’s Health

SERVICES • Provides access to Family/General Medicine and OB/GYN physicians.

• Ancillary services, including: * laboratory services * patient education

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

35

Life gives you plenty of reasons to hold your breath.

We give you a reason to exhale.

Life’s unpredictable. But it’s a relief knowing we are here for you when you need us.

Banner Health’s impact in the Maricopa community includes: • More than 5,100 patients admitted annually • 13,000 Emergency Room visits annually • Almost 35,000 Health Center visits • More than $4.2 million paid in salaries and benefits

Trusted Care. Close to Home.

Excellence in Health, Wellness, Education and Service

We care for the Community Primary Care | Pediatrics | Sport Physicals On-Site Labs | Obstetrics & Gynecology Diabetes Education | Care Coordination Integrated Behavioral Health Discount Programs Pharmacy - Open to the Public

Sun Life Family Health Center is a local non-proĂžt Community Health Center that has been serving the community of Maricopa since 1980.

Sun Life has an unwavering dedication to providing the community and our patients comprehensive, trusted and affordable healthcare close to home.

Over the years we have grown our services to meet the changing needs of our area. In 2015 we opened Sun Life Center for Women providing OBGYN services to the community.

In addition at our family practice location we also offer pediatrics, integrated behavioral health, wellness education and most recently ensuring our communities have access to medication by opening our Maricopa Pharmacy to the public.

Sun Life Family Health Center (520) 568-2245 44572 W. Bowlin Rd. Sun Life Center for Women (520) 788-6100 44765 W. Hathaway Ave. We accept most major insurances including AHCCCS, Medicare and TRICARE If you are uninsured, we can help.

sunlifefamilyhealth.org

Hablamos EspaĂąol

ADVANTAGES Residential Developments RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

R

Acac Cross

esidential real estate is extremely active in Maricopa. The number of new home permits continues to climb with up to 100 permits issued each month. 2017 total permits issued was 810, and 2018 total 1 permits issued was 996 FYI . Average new home pricing ranges from the high $170s to mid $300s.

Maricopa Meadows

The top 8 home builders are: • Costa Verde Homes • Fulton Homes • KB Homes • LGI Homes • Meritage Active • Meritage Homes • Pinnacle West Homes • Starlight Homes

Alte

The resale home market remains active as well. Inventory continues to decline with a five-year low of 282 active listings noted in May 2018. January 2019 inventory is up slightly to 378 units as new home builders increase production. Lower inventory, coupled with increased market demand, is continuing to drive stronger pricing.

The City of Maricopa is a desirable residential market due to the close proximity to the metropolitan Phoenix-area The January 2019 median sales price was $209,900, up 55.5 percent from the five-year low of 2 $135,000 in October 2013 .

Maricopa’s 2018 new home starts grew almost

50%

more than the MetroPhoenix average 1 - Source: SmartGov for SFH 2 - Source: ARMLS - RBI

38 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Historical Center

Available Land

Residential real estate is extremely active in Maricopa. The number of new home permits continues to climb with up to 100 permits issued each month.

2018 total permits issued was 1022 2019 is anticipated to top 1100

Cobblestone

cia sings

erra

Rancho El Dorado

Villages at Rancho El Dorado

Province

Lakes at Ranch El Dorado

Homestead North

Senita Santa Desert Rosa Cedars Crossings

Palo Brea

Tortosa Rancho Mirage

Glennwilde Smith Farms

Santa Rosa Springs

Sorrento

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

39

JUST THE FACTS The Maricopa Real Estate Company CITY OF MARICOPA TRANSACTIONS

2018 LISTINGS SOLD

2018 BUYERS SOLD

324

$69,486,920

Steve Murray

225

$47,639,371

2018 TOTAL TRANSACTIONS

549

$117,126,291

Jay Shaver

Owner/Designated Broker 602-359-5170

Owner/Associate Broker 602-228-2384

520-350-1091 • WWW.TMRECO.COM If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency, this is not intended as a solicitation. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

eam Is D T r u O

edicated To YOUR Succ

21596 N John Wayne Parkway Suite 101 Maricopa, AZ 85139

Office: 520.217.3550 Cell: 480.519.2333

Matthew Sheldon

STACEY LYNN

Matthew.Sheldon@PTAAZ.Com 480-519-2333

Stacey.Lynn@PTAAZ.Com 480-766-6021

www.PioneerTitleAgency.com

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ADVANTAGES Commercial Development in the News COPPER SKY COMMERCIAL COMPLEX

T

he 18-acre city-owned parcel fronts John Wayne Parkway, adjacent to the Copper Sky Recreation Complex. The multi-phase commercial project includes a 4-story, 89-room La Quinta hotel - the first announced hotel within the city limits. The hotel is expected to open in 2020. The second phase of the development will include multifamily housing and an assisted-living facility. The mixeduse project combines living space with restaurants, retail and hotel components and complements the recreation complex.

ESTRELLA GIN BUSINESS PARK

A

50+ acre, city-owned and zoned parcel is located at SR238 and Edison Road. This business park concept is planned to be developed through a public-private partnership.

The City Government rezoned the site as I-1 light industrial to allow a greater variety of potential uses. The property includes space for offices, flex/manufacturing, and warehouse-distribution. Fire Station 575 and Public Works facility are currently open on the site, with a Fire Administration facility currently under construction.

42 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

APEX MOTOR CLUB

A

PEX Motor Club is a 280-acre private motorsports club and race track located on the west side of Maricopa. The $40 million-dollar project broke ground during Q4 2018, with a projected opening in 2021. The first phase will include a 2.27-mile racetrack and clubhouse. At completion, the track will be 4.12-mile multi-configurable road course – the longest racetrack in Arizona. Reservations for memberships are underway, with the Executive level membership sold out.

EDISON POINTE

T

he 130,000 square-foot shopping center fronts SR347 at Edison Road and has attracted several retail brands including Ross Dress for Less, Dollar Tree, Brakes Plus, Goodwill of Arizona, Planet Fitness and two fast food venues, Burger King and Dunkin’ Donuts.

IHOP opened during Q1 2019.

C APITAL R C ONSTRUCITON Building Foundations of Trust

We want to earn your business by earning your trust.

Commercial Buildings

Tenant Improvements

Industrial Projects

Metal Buildings

Commercial Remodels

Design Build Services

Introduce your business to your new community during construction by using a local contractor that uses local crews.

Ph: (520) 858-6501 · info@capitalrinc.com · www.capitalrinc.com ROC190936 · 3009 N. Rockwell Ave. #4, Casa Grande, AZ 85122

PROACTIVE PROACTIVE ECONOMIC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT IS IS

Native Native to to Ak-Chin Ak-Chin TT

he Ak-Chin Industrial Park Board he Ak-Chin Park Board oversees theIndustrial marketing, development the marketing, development andoversees management of Ak-Chin’s industrial and management of Ak-Chin’s industrial properties which include the Santa Cruz properties which include the Santa Cruz Commerce Center, Adobe Office Suites Commerce Center, Adobe Office and the property surrounding theSuites Ak-Chin and the property surrounding theas Ak-Chin Regional Airport. The Board acts a Regionaladvocate Airport. The a location bothBoard withinacts andas outside location advocate within and outside the Community to both identify opportunities, the Community to identify streamline processes, andopportunities, accelerate streamlinetoprocesses, solutions any issuesand thataccelerate might arise. solutions to any issues that might arise.

TOP 10 AK-CHIN ADVANTAGES TOP 10 AK-CHIN ADVANTAGES

As an Arizona Gold certified site, As anCruz Arizona Gold Center certified site, Santa Commerce offers Santa Cruz Commerce offers lots approximately 45 acres Center of shovel-ready approximately acres of shovel-ready lots for owner-built 45 or build-to-suit projects that for owner-built build-to-suit projects that can speed yourorproject to market. can speed your project to market.

Lease Customization

#10 Growing Environment: Santa Cruz Commerce Center (SCCC) sits on the tip of the Greater Phoenix/Maricopa #10 southern Growing Environment: Santa Cruz CommerceCounty Center Metroplex.

(SCCC) sits on the southern tip of the Greater Phoenix/Maricopa County Metroplex.

Lease Customization Low Land Lease Rates Low LandProperty Lease Rates No Real Taxes

#9 Skilled Workforce: SCCC is two miles from the Central Arizona CollegeCampus SCCC and is is located between largest #9 Maricopa Skilled Workforce: two miles from the the state’s Centraltwo Arizona College-

#6 #6 #5 #5 #4 #4 #3 #3 #2 #2 #1 #1

For leasing info: 520-568-3246 For leasing info: 520-568-3246

Build-to-Suit Funding

Ak-Chin: A Great Place Ak-Chin: A Great Place to Grow Your Business! to Grow Your Business!

MARICOPA COUNTY PINAL COUNTY

PHOENIX 26.7 miles

LOS ANGELES 460 miles MARICOPA COUNTY

PINAL COP U INNTAYL C O U N T Y

#7 #7

No Property LowReal Utility Rates Taxes Low Utility Rates Build-to-Suit Funding

M A R I C O P AMCAORUI C PA C O U N T Y NO TY

#8 #8

universities.

Maricopa Campus and is located between the state’s two largest universities.

Workforce Availability: Ak-Chin Indian Community lies directly adjacent to the City of Maricopa, just 23 milesCommunity south of Phoenix/Chandler.

Workforce Availability:and Ak-Chin Indian lies directly adjacent to the City of Maricopa, and just 23 miles south of Phoenix/Chandler.

Growth Corridor: SCCC sits in a growth corridor between metro Phoenix and Tucson.

Growth Corridor: SCCC sits in a growth corridor between metro Phoenix and Tucson.

Water Availability: Ak-Chin has a guaranteed allocation.

Water Availability: Ak-Chin has a guaranteed allocation.

Utility Savings: Ak-Chin owns its own electric, water and sewer utilities.

Utility Savings: Ak-Chin owns its own electric, water and sewer utilities.

Customized Leasing Solutions: minimize initial capital outlay; minimize need for outside financing.

Customized Leasing Solutions: minimize initial capital outlay; minimize need for outside financing.

Tax Savings: Many local taxes may not apply and many Native American incentives do. taxes may not apply and many Native Tax Savings: Many local American incentives do.

Speed to Market: Ak-Chin Planning & Zoning Commission and has an expedited process for permitting, design approvals Speed to Market: Ak-Chin Planning &zoning Zoningand Commission and has an expedited process for permitting, zoning and design approvals Certified Site: SCCC is an Arizona Gold shovel-ready site certified by the Arizona Commerce Authority.

Certified Site: SCCC is an Arizona Gold shovel-ready site certified by the Arizona Commerce Authority.

40

11

FLAGSTAFF

ARIZONA

INTERSTATE

11

MARICOPA

UltraStar Multi-tainment Center Ak-ChinAK-CHIN Circle INDIANAk-Chin COMMUNITY Harrah’s Casino

AK-CHIN INDIAN COMMUNITY ARIZONA

347

INTERSTATE

17

40

PHOENIX

MA

Proposed Interstate Route RIC

RIC

OP A-

OP A-

INTERSTATE

CA

CA

SA

SA

GR

GR

ARIZONA

ARIZONA

84

347

CHANDLER

MARICOPA 17347 ARIZONA

8

YUMA

10

ARIZONA

AN

DE

INTERSTATE

Y

10

ARIZONA

AN

DE

Union Pacific Railroad

387 HW

387 HW

Y CASA GRANDE

INTERSTATE INTERSTATE

Major Interstate Highway Proposed Interstate Route State Highway Union Pacific Railroad

MA

FLAGSTAFF

10

State Highway

COMMERCE CENTER

INTERSTATE

INTERSTATE

Ak-Chin Indian Community City of Maricopa

Ak-Chin Indian Major Interstate Highway Community

COMMERCE CENTER

UltraStar Multi-tainment Center Ak-Chin Circle MARICOPA Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

AK-CHIN INDIAN Ak-Chin Farms & COMMUNITY Community Headquarters Ak-Chin Farms & Community Headquarters

KEY TO BOUNDARIES

10

ARIZONA

347

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club AK-CHIN INDIAN COMMUNITY

INTERSTATE

KEY TO BOUNDARIES City of Maricopa

LOS ANGELES 460 miles

INTERSTATE

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

PROPOSED

INTERSTATE

PHOENIX 26.7 miles 10

ARIZONA

347

PROPOSED

ARIZONA

PINAL COUNTY

INTERSTATE

ARIZONA

287

CASA GRANDE INTERSTATE

PINAL 10 COUNTY

SAN DIEGO 344 miles

PHOENIX TUCSON

INTERSTATE

10

CHANDLER

MARICOPA

8 AREA OF ENLARGEMENT INTERSTATE

YUMA

AREA OF ENLARGEMENT

84

10

CASA19GRANDE

MILES

INTERSTATE

PINAL 10 COUNTY

0

1

5

10

INTERSTATE

8

SAN DIEGO 344 miles

TUCSON

INTERSTATE

INTERSTATE

10

INTERSTATE

19

ARIZONA

ARIZONA

INTERSTATE

INTERSTATE

ARIZONA

347

MILES

0

1

5

10

287

CASA GRANDE TUCSON 80 miles NOGALES, MEXICO 148 miles

8

INTERSTATE

10

TUCSON 80 miles NOGALES, MEXICO 148 miles

INTERSTATE

10

www.leaseakchin.com www.leaseakchin.com

A DEVELOPMENT OF THE A DEVELOPMENT AK‑CHIN INDIAN OF THE COMMUNITY AK‑CHIN INDIAN COMMUNITY

Ak-Chin’s Santa Cruz Commerce Ak-Chin’s Santa Cruz Commerce Center has shown a lot of Center has shown a lot of improvement with continual improvement with continual upgrades to its 130-acre industrial upgrades to its 130-acre industrial park: park: All vacant land has been cleared andvacant leveled All land has been cleared and leveled Streets, curbs and gutters installedcurbs with landscaping Streets, and gutters installed with landscaping All adjacent utilities in place All adjacent utilities in place I-1 and I-2 zoning established I-1 and I-2 zoning established Remediation complete to remove site from flood zone to remove Remediation complete site from flood zone

Phase 1 Environmental Site Phase 1 Environmental Assessment completed,Site showing no Assessment completed, showing no hazardous materials/substances hazardous materials/substances Endangered Species study and Cultural Resource survey Endangered Species studycompleted and Cultural Resource survey completed Left turn lane from Hwy. 238 to Antone forfrom greater and Left turnRd. lane Hwy.safety 238 to access Rd. to park completed Antone for greater safety and access to park completed Booster pump project to improve water capacity completed Booster pump project to improve water capacity completed Many of these improvements enabled Santaof Cruz Commerce Centerenabled to Many these improvements be designated as an Arizona Santa Cruz Commerce CenterGold to Certified shovel-ready site byGold the be designated as an Arizona Arizona Commerce Authority 2014.

Certified shovel-ready site byinthe Arizona Commerce Authority in 2014.

But we don’t stop trying to improve

Approximately 45 acres are Approximately immediately 45 acres are available. immediately Lotavailable. lines are conceptual and Lot lines are may be conceptual and reconfigured may be to fitreconfigured your project. to fit your project.

ourselves!

Additional planned But we don’t stop trying to improve improvements for 2019 include: ourselves!

Additional planned improvements for 2019 include: T-1 fiber optics installation T-1 fiber optics installation Water/wastewater storage capacity expansion Water/wastewater storage capacity expansion What these improvements mean to you isthese that you can get your project What improvements mean to out of faster than project in other you is the thatground you can get your locations. out of the ground faster than in other locations.

Call today and see an overall improvement your Call today andinsee ansite overall location process improvement in your site custom leasing solutions in a native environment custom leasing solutions in a native environment location process custom leasing solutions in a native environment

custom leasing solutions in a native environment

BROKERS WELCOME! BROKERS WELCOME!

www.leaseakchin.com www.leaseakchin.com

ADVANTAGES Maricopa Construction in the News SR347 OVERPASS PROJECT

HOUSING: A DECADE REVISITED

W

ith combined efforts of city, county, state and federal agencies, the long-championed overpass at the SR347 Union Pacific Railroad crossing is currently under construction. Preliminary construction began in Q1 2018 with completion estimated for late 2019. Current traffic counts of over 36,000 vehicles and upwards of 60 trains per day created the compelling need for the overpass to avoid extended transportation delays. Realignment of several roadways and a new signalized intersection will significantly improve the traffic flow through the area.

R

Source: ADOT

Project updates and overview:

www.overpasstracker.com MULTIFAMILY HOUSING ANNOUNCED

T

he City rezoned a six-acre parcel on Porter Road, near the Central Arizona College Campus, to general mixed use to allow a proposed multifamily project to begin the development process. The 100-unit apartment, The Oasis proposed by Englewood Group, would be the first apartment complex within the city.

esidential real estate in Maricopa has rebounded in the last decade to one of the greatest demand and growth communities in the region. 2,031 resale homes and 1,022 new construction homes transacted in 2018. In 2018, the average growth of homebuilding activity in Metro Phoenix was 13 percent.

Maricopa new home construction grew almost 50 percent more than the regional average over 2017 sales. Demand for affordable housing has driven buyers to purchase outside the metropolitan Phoenix area, with Maricopa pricing approximately 20 percent less than comparable properties in the metro area. On average, the one-way commute time to work from Maricopa is 29 minutes.

TWO NEW CHARTER SCHOOLS

T

wo new charter schools to the community are currently under construction and slated to open for the 2019-20 school year.

Heritage Academy, Inc. announced the $16 million campus for grades 6-12 will be a two-phase construction with classrooms, gymnasium and athletic fields in the first phase and additional classrooms and auditorium in the second phase.

The second school, A+ Charter Schools, will focus on middle and high school special needs students who are impacted by autism (grades 7 through 12). The school features smaller class sizes and one-on-one learning to best ensure the students’ educational needs are met.

46 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Founded 2006 Maricopa Ace Hardware is “the helpful place” striving to make a difference in our community and help you get the job done.

Business Solutions

Commercial Accounts

SH

OP

LO C

AL

“Let’s get to work, Maricopa. At your local Ace Hardware, we’re eager to help you conquer any home improvement or maintenance task. From simple plumbing fixes to interior design overhauls to weekend hobbies, we’re equipped with the inventory, know-how, and can-do attitude that will aid you in getting the job done. Best of all, because we’re locally owned, Maricopa has a special place in our hearts -- and our business. We’re always looking for ways to better serve our city, from getting involved in our community to getting to know our customers and building relationships with them. It’s our way of saying thanks to a town that’s supported us since the day we opened more than 10 years ago.”

Inventory of Custom Items

Maricopa Ace Hardware

• Authorized Stihl Equipment Sales / Service • Lawn & Garden • Paint • Plumbing • Hardware • Pool Supplies • Keys

38+ Employees 15,000 sq. ft. main building + garden center

7-Time Pinnacle Performance Retailing Designation 2-Time Platinum Retailer Award Top 10% of all ACE Hardware stores in the U.S. 2018 Children’s Miracle Network Donations Top Store in Arizona Top 10 Stores in the US Proud Supporter of • • • •

Phoenix Children’s Hospital Against Abuse, Inc. City of Maricopa community events Assisting in developing the Maricopa Disc Golf Course

Maricopa ACE Hardware 21542 N John Wayne Pkwy Maricopa, Arizona 85139

520.494.7805 maricopaace.com

Open 7 Days a Week 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday

RECREATION Golf | Copper Sky | Parks | Sky Diving | Bicycling | Rec Sports COPPER SKY RECREATIONAL COMPLEX AND AREA PARKS The Copper Sky Recreation Complex encompasses 98 acres, offering endless opportunities for fitness, fun and leisure.

The Multigenerational Center includes aquatics center, fitness equipment, and wide variety of classes and group sports activities. Space rentals available.

The park includes fishing lake, special event amphitheater, interactive playgrounds, dog park, baseball and softball fields, batting cages, tennis

courts, skate plaza, basketball courts, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and picnic area with grills and ramadas.

Pacana Park spans more than 22 acres of land with a pristine 2.25 acre lake that is home to various fish including catfish and blue gills. Pacana Park is the City’s first public park.

Amenities include softball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer field, playgrounds and ramadas.

GOLF Maricopa is home to two privately-owned golf courses.

The Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Course is ranked #5 in Arizona according to Golf Magazine. A Troon property, it is located five minutes west of the heart of the community on SR 238.

The Duke Golf Course pays homage to the legendary Western hero, John Wayne. Nestled in the heart of the Rancho El Dorado community, The Duke provides outstanding views and a warm atmosphere.

OTHER ACTIVITIES Maricopa is home to several exciting recreational activies including SKYDIVE PHOENIX, Inc., Arizona

48 CITY OF MARICOPA | Economic Development Department

Soaring at the Estrella Sailport, and Airparamo powered paragliding at the Ak-Chin Regional Airport.

ANNUAL EVENTS Family Friendly | Crafts | Festivals | Fireworks | Great Food

© Victor Moreno Photography

GREAT AMERICAN FOURTH

COPA COLOR RUN RUN

Maricopa’s annual Independence Day celebration will take place from 6-10 p.m., Wednesday, July 4, at Copper Sky Regional Park. At this event, families will enjoy entertainment, activities for the entire family, great food vendors and of course a grand display of colorful fireworks.

This vibrant, memorable, family event is really a great chance to participate in a new and different event that involves running and walking with a slight twist! As you make your way through the course you will go through “Color Stations” where you will be greeted by our amazing well-trained “Color Throwers” who will make sure you get all the color you need to stay motivated to complete the course.

© Howard WaGGner - News of Maricopa

SALSA FESTIVAL

MERRY COPA

The Salsa Festival is Maricopa’s largest event drawing more than 10,000 people to the city. This event features a salsa competition with people’s choice tastings, amazing live entertainment, a Little Pepper Zone with games, inflatable rides and fun activities for the family. You can also browse our business and craft vendors, enjoy great food and drink and visit the beer garden.

The annual Merry Copa Holiday festival is held in December. Our City Mayor leads a countdown to reveal a Christmas tree covered in lights and decorations.

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to local community group performances and take pictures with Santa. Food and business vendors are also on site.

Source: www.maricopa-az.gov

MaricopaEDA.com | Maricopa Economic Development

49

MEDA: Championing Business and Economic Growth in Maricopa The City of Maricopa enjoys many assets and resources that need to be mobilized and synchronized to assure an even brighter future and more compelling reasons to do business in our City. We believe that the platform of a public/private partnership designed to leverage private and public investment is the strongest method to achieve our collective goal of fostering high quality and sustainable economic development in Maricopa.

Who We Are

T

he Maricopa Economic Development Alliance (MEDA) is Maricopa’s private-public partnership for economic development. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation, the organization champions strategies and solutions that foster economic growth and prosperity in the City of Maricopa.

It achieves its mission by bringing together the business, government, education and civic sectors to identify and advance forward-looking policies that facilitate quality investment, growth and workforce development.

MEDA’s board is comprised of the leading executives of Maricopa’s major business sectors, representing expertise and experience in utilities, finance, development, health

care and infrastructure development. Equally important are the elected officials and public sector executives who bring essential representation of the public sector: Maricopa Mayor, Maricopa Councilmember, Maricopa City Manager and Maricopa Economic Development Director, and the Pinal County Economic Development Director.

Working together from a foundation of shared values, vision and commitment, the business, government and education representatives on MEDA’s board work vigorously and collaboratively to ensure a business friendly climate where new, quality firms are welcomed with open arms.

Legacy MEDA Projects MEDA is proud to have had a direct role in helping to bring anchor institutions and projects to Maricopa, including: • • • •

Banner Health Maricopa Center Central Arizona College Maricopa Campus Dignity Health Urgent Care and Medical Center Walmart Retail Center

The organization also has played a strong role in supporting the development of the Estrella Gin Business Park, owed by the City of Maricopa, and APEX Motor Club, which broke ground in 2019 for its multi-faceted track and facilities for auto enthusiasts in Arizona and from throughout the country. Many more projects currently are underway, and MEDA is proud to support Maricopa’s energetic work to bring these investments to fruition in 2019 and beyond.

PO Box 1703, Maricopa, AZ 85139

info@MaricopaEDA.com 520.424.0419 | www.MaricopaEDA.com

The City of Maricopa and Maricopa Economic Development Alliance express their deep appreciation for the spirit of partnership, vision, leadership and financial support that these generous investors provide to this private-public partnership each year.

MEDA champions strategies and solutions that foster economic growth and prosperity in the City of Maricopa.

Maricopa Economic Development Alliance PO Box 1703 Maricopa, AZ 85139

(520) 424-0419 info@MaricopaEDA.com www.MaricopaEDA.com

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KELLY HERRINGTON SALES MANAGER/REALTOR®

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520.423.8250 | ROXsells.com ©2018 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.