Golden Corridor LIVING Magazine

SPECIAL ELOY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FEATURE . . . 35

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

SPECIAL SECTION:

Summer Fun!

PHOENIX

The Interview: Casa Grande’s Own “Wildman Phil” In Every Edition:

TUCSON

GOLDEN GROWTH Economic Development Ramps up in the Golden Corridor

GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM

$4.95 Complimentary • SUMMER 2018

ARIZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA

5IJT EPDVNFOU DPOUBJOT CPUI JOGPSNBUJPO BOE GPSN GJFMET 5P SFBE JOGPSNBUJPO VTF UIF %PXO "SSPX GSPN B GPSN GJFME

onboard spending money ‥

Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers

Alaska Cruisetour GB4

Mediterranean

May – Aug 2019

May – Aug 2019

May – Aug 2019

7 days Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (Whittier)

11 nights Anchorage to Vancouver, B.C.

Interior fares from*

Balcony fares from*

$799

$1,649

Interior fares from*

7 days Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia) Interior fares from*

Balcony fares from*

$1,799 $2,749

Balcony fares from*

$1,299 $1,849

Island PrincessÂŽ 5/8/19 *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $225 are additional.

Royal PrincessÂŽ 5/14/19 *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $235 are additional.

Emerald PrincessÂŽ 5/18/19 *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $105 are additional.

British Isles (from Dublin)

Circle Japan (with Nebuta & Summer Festivals)

Caribbean

May – Sep 2019

Jun – Sep 2019

12 days Roundtrip Dublin

11 days Roundtrip Tokyo (Yokohama)

Interior fares from*

Balcony fares from*

$2,099 $2,949 Crown PrincessÂŽ 5/4/19 *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $180 are additional.

Interior fares from*

May – Jul 2019 7 days Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale

Balcony fares from*

$2,249 $3,349

Interior fares from*

Balcony fares from*

$799

$1,399

Caribbean PrincessÂŽ 5/18/19 Other Departure: 14 days *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $245 are additional.

Diamond PrincessÂŽ 8/4/19 *Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $130 are additional.

Available through: Tori Ward at Rox Travel !

442 W. Kortsen Rd., Ste.101 • Casa Grande, AZ 85122 928 254-9968! or! • WWW.ROXTRAVEL.COM 520.836.8517 Tori@roxtravel.com

Peg@roxtravel.com • Jerry@roxtravel.com • Tori@roxtravel.com

‥FREE Onboard Spending Money of up to $1,000 per stateroom is based on voyage length and stateroom type. Offer is applicable to first two guests in a stateroom. Guests with single occupancy will receive double the per guest credit amount. Offer does not apply to third or fourth guests. Spending money may be used on a single voyage only, is not redeemable for cash, cannot be used in the casino, expires at the end of that voyage and is not applicable during the land portion of cruisetours. Onboard spending money is based on the ship’s onboard currency.

Free Onboard Spending Money ‥ per guest (1st and 2nd guest only)

CRUISE LENGTH

INTERIOR OR OCEANVIEW

BALCONY, MINI-SUITE OR SUITE

7–10 DAYS

$100

$250

11+ DAYS

$200

$500

*Fares apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares for other categories may vary. Fares are per guest, non-air, cruise- or cruisetour-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth guests. This offer has limited space regardless of cabin availability and may not be combinable with any other public, group or past guest offers, including Air discounts. Offer is not transferable and may not be combinable with other select offers and onboard credits. Offer is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older and receive this offer. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Deposit of 10% of cruise fare per guest for bookings made under Landmark Sale is refundable. Note: For assistance reserving a wheelchair-accessible stateroom, please call 1-800-774-6237. Offer valid: May 1 – June 19, 2018. Reference promotion code: N5-. Š2018 Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

5.8 Acre Horse Property

3770 South Peart Rd., Casa Grande $525,000 3BR, 2 BA 2,191 SF GUEST QUARTERS, POOL 5.8 ACRE HORSE PROPERTY • Charming, historical, working ranch house with 3 bedroom home • Soaring family room plate glass window view of Casa Grande Mountain • Guest quarters lock-off in the home for rental • Fenced private pool with separate guest quarters • Manufactured home rental has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths • 6 horse stalls, round pen, 2 large hay barns, 3 Conex containers • Fenced pasture/arena with room to ride • 4-car carport with RV parking • San Carlos irrigation on 5.8 acres

GEORGIA F. SCHAEFFER ASSOCIATE BROKER, REALTOR , GRI, ABR, CDPE, SRES, SFR ®

520.560.3333 | georgias@coldwellbanker.com

DAWN M. ZIMBELMAN REALTOR , CDPE, ABR, SRES ®

520.431.2875 | dawnz@coldwellbanker.com 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.

SPECIAL ELOY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FEATURE . . . 35

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

SPECIAL SECTION:

Summer Fun!

PHOENIX

Contents

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

Features: The Interview:

TUCSON

Casa Grande’s Own “Wildman Phil” In Every Edition:

GOLDEN GROWTH Economic Development Ramps up in the Golden Corridor

GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM

Summer 2018

Pinal County Press Local News

16

The LIVING Interview: Philip “Wildman Phil” Rakoci

26

Pinal County Moves Forward with Key Priorities for Residents

64

$4.95 Complimentary • SUMMER 2018

ARIZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA

©MAPBOX ©OPENSTREETMAP ©SCRIBBLE MAPS

35

82

94

SPECIAL FEATURE:

SPECIAL SECTION:

SPECIAL SECTION:

ELOY: Intersection of Value, Location & Opportunity

Summer Fun: Travel & Tourism

Home & Garden

Casa Grande - Travel & Tourism is This Month’s Theme! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Land Development in Pinal County on the Upswing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Coolidge - State of the City 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Out & About: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Eloy - New Eloy City Hall Has Successful Groundbreaking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Summertime - Preparing Your Body for Extreme Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Maricopa - Work Underway on SR347 Overpass Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Understanding Your Past to Find Your Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

G OLDENCORRIDORLIVING .COM

COMING SUMMER 2018

The EDUCATION Edition

Don’t miss this opportunity to promote your business!

Interview Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Finding Lost Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Stunning Safari . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94

. . . . . . . . . 126

“

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

Craig McFarland, Mayor, City of Casa Grande

THE HOME & GARDEN EDITION Inside:

2018 Winter Visitor Guide

THE

BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP EDITION In Every Edition:

GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM

SPECIAL REPORT

CASA GRANDE: A GROWING HORIZON

The Interview: In Every Edition:

$4.95 Complimentary • FALL 2017

Pat Johnson Talks Attesa

SEEDS OF HOPE:

DELIVERING MORE THAN HOPE

ARIZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM

$4.95 Complimentary • WINTER 2018

ARIZONA CIT Y • C A SA GR ANDE • COOLIDGE • ELOY • FLORENCE • MARICOPA

GOLDENCORRIDORLIVING.COM For more information on how your business can be featured, please call 520-426-2074 or email info@roxco.com

Letter from the Editor

WILD ABOUT SUMMER W Bea Lueck

8

hat I love most about summer in Arizona is less traffic on our highways and roadways, having the kids home from school and, if I’m lucky, taking a vacation (Hello, London!)

But there are also some very scary things about summer in our state – extreme heat and drownings. With higher temperatures comes more pool time, increasing the risk of drowning for children. The rising temperatures also place adults and pets at risk of heat-related illness and death. And don’t even get me started on the tragedies we see every year when children and pets are locked in hot cars!

In this issue, we celebrate the fun that is summer while also remembering its risks. There truly is so much to do in our great state over the summer. Want to learn about the cliff-dwelling Sinagua culture? Or go fossil hunting amidst Indian ruins?

Check out our “Top-10 Arizona Day

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

Trips” feature for more on these and other unique activities and adventures. Or, maybe you’re dreaming of something more exotic this summer?

If the sound of crashing waves is calling, dive into our ROX Travel feature on French Polynesia.

Or, if you’re like me, and would prefer to just enjoy Arizona’s magnificent summer sunsets from inside the cool house, then at least be sure your air conditioner or evaporative cooler are in working order. To help, we’ve included advice on yearly tuneups and how to keep those utility bills under control.

If being cooped up in the house over the summer drives you WILD – then you’ll be in good company!

In this issue’s LIVING Interview, we caught up with area resident and wildlife performer Philip “Wildman Phil” Rakoci. Don’t miss reading about his lifelong love of wildlife, brush with death from a rattlesnake bite and how he’s inspiring others through enter-

tainment and education.

Speaking of education, did you know that drowning is the leading cause of death in children under 5?

This is especially true in Arizona, where backyard pools abound. But don’t forget children can and do also drown in bathtubs, toilets and even buckets. Be sure to read our summer safety story on preventing drownings and other summer safety hazards.

As the next generation of young people graduates here in the Golden Corridor, we too have education on the brain. Don’t miss our upcoming issue featuring education and the students, parents, educators and administrators who make it a success in our community.

I wish you a safe, fun and WILD summer! Kick up your feet, crank up the AC and enjoy this issue.

–Bea

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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G OLDENCORRIDORLIVING .COM PUBLISHER Elaine Earle, CPA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bea Lueck MANAGING EDITOR Katie Mayer SENIOR COPYWRITER & EDITOR Robin Layton CONTRIBUTING WRITER Donna McBride ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Loriann Rhodes David Truby CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tim Clarke SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jake Pagano GRAPHIC DESIGNER Rebecca Bowen CUSTOMER SERVICE/AD TRAFFIC MANAGER Jo Wobser PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER Julie Turetzky ADVERTISING INQUIRIES info@roxco.com COMMENTS & IDEAS editor@roxco.com CALENDAR INQUIRES calendar@roxco.com (5 2 0 ) 4 2 6 -2 0 7 4 442 W. Kortsen Rd, Ste 101 Casa Grande, AZ 85122

VOICES Meet some of our contributing Voices of the Community. These leaders come from public, private and nonprofit organizations. You’ll find their fresh ideas and timely stories in this edition.

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 reelected 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.

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. © 2018. 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 10 GOLDEN forming their own opinions.OR Real estate information is as of 5-1-18 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 all around fitness junkie. Tiffanie specializes in weight loss, strength and conditioning, and general fitness.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

of the

Community

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 a master’s in special education. She is married with four children from kindergarten to high school and has been a resident of and employee in 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

Greg Stanley

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 of Fresno, and retired from Golden Eagle Distributors in January 2015 as VP of Sales after a ten year run with the company, and 36 total years in beverage business sales management, marketing, and operations. McFarland began his first term as Mayor in December 2016.

County Manager Greg was appointed County Engineer in August 2004, Director of Public Works in February 2005, Assistant County Manager in February 2012 and County Manager in January 2014. He is a Phoenix native. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 1976. His military career spanned over 26 years as a U.S. Army Officer in various command and staff positions. He retired as a Colonel. He and his wife Patti have three children -- Tim, Erin and Brad.

Gigi McWhirter

Jon Thompson

Conceived in a plane behind the Airport Tavern and living proof that it takes a village to raise a kid proper. 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!

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.

Helen Neuharth

Tori Ward

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, Colorado. Helen is an active member of the Arizona Chamber Executives.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN 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.

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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JUNE

1-2

ALLADIN JR - 7:00 PM-8:30 PM - Coolidge Performing Arts 684 W Northern Ave., Coolidge, AZ 85128. Presented

by Arizona Repertory Theatre for Kids. Tickets at art4kids.net

6-9

2

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EDGE OF THE WEST - 9:00 AM-12:00 PM - Gallopin’ Goose 1980 S Arizona Blvd., Coolidge, AZ 85128. Honky Tonk jammers Edge of the West has been steadily touring the Western US for the last three years. Visit www.edgeofthewest.band

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ANGEL CARDS-LEARN HOW TO READ THEM! - 2:00 PM-4:00 PM - Apothecraft 408 N Florence St., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. To sign up, contact Sue at: su.broome@to gmail. com or 608.239.9026 or SueBroome. com. Space is limited. $52 in advance / $60 day of - 1 deck of cards will be included with workshop.

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MOVIES FOR THE SUMMER - 1:00 PM-3:00 PM - Eloy Santa Cruz Library, 1000 N. Main St., Eloy, AZ 85131. Family-friendly music theme movies as part of our Arizona Summer Reading Program “Libraries Rock!”. Call for movie titles 520-466-2814

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ART & SIP AT TRUE GRIT - 6:30 PM - True Grit Tavern, 20800 N John Wayne Pkwy., Ste. 101, Maricopa, AZ 85139 While these events are ALL-Ages, please be aware that there may be adults drinking around your minors (8+, please)! Call 602-796-8194 for more info.

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JUNGLE JILL’S ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS - 4:00 PM-5:00 PM - Eloy Santa Cruz Library, 1000 N. Main St., Eloy, AZ 85131. Jungle Jill brings live, exotic and domestic animals to you, up close and interactive for an unforgettable experience!

RENT PRESENTED BY MARICOPA COMMUNITY THEATRE - 7:00 PM-9:30 PM Leading Edge Academy 18700 N Porter Rd., Maricopa, AZ 85138.

Tickets at www.universe.com MOVIES FOR THE SUMMER - 1:00 PM-3:00 PM - Eloy Santa Cruz Library, 1000 N. Main St., Eloy, AZ 85131. Family-friendly music theme movies as part of our Arizona Summer Reading Program “Libraries Rock!”. Call for movie titles 520-466-2814

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ART & SIP AT TRUE GRIT 6:30 PM - True Grit Tavern, 20800 N John Wayne Pkwy., Ste. 101, Maricopa, AZ 85139 While these events are ALL-Ages, please be aware that there may be adults drinking around your minors (8+, please)! Call 602-796-8194 for more info.

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MOVIES FOR THE SUMMER - 1:00 PM-3:00 PM - Eloy Santa Cruz Library, 1000 N. Main St., Eloy, AZ 85131. Family-friendly music theme movies as part of our Arizona Summer Reading Program “Libraries Rock!”. Call for movie titles 520-466-2814

13

PAINT NITE - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - Mimi’s Cafe, 839 N. Promenade Pkwy., Casa Grande, AZ 85222. All painting materials included in the price. No experience preferred.

Buy tickets online at paintnite.com.

Paint Nite is only for adults age 21 and older.

14-17

BLACKBOX THEATRE-THE PILLOWMAN - BlackBox Theatre, 407 N. Sacaton St., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. Late Night Series. Call for times 520-428-7050.

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READY YOUR BUSINESS-EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP - 7:30 AM-9:00 AM - Public Safety Bldg.373 E. Val Vista Blvd., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. Presented by Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce and Casa Grande Fire Department.

RSVP requested by Friday, June 8, 2018 to Linda at the Chamber, events@casagrandechamber.org or 520-836-2125

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DIVE-IN-MOVIE - 7:00 PM-9:30 PM - Palm Island Family Aquatic Park, 1115 N. Brown Ave., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. The community is invited to cool off at the pool while enjoying a newly released family-friendly film. The admission fee is $3.00 per person.

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FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY - 6:30 PM - 45295 W Honeycutt Ave, Maricopa, AZ 85138. Good Food Good Company, Good Time. Our last truck event for the summer.

20

DESERT MILKYWAY PAINT NIGHT - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - A Latte Vino - 958 E. Rodeo Rd., Casa Grande. Tickets available at www.paintnite.com.

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UNICORN TEA PARTY 12:00 PM - The Chandelier Tea Room 211 N Florence St. Ste 2, Casa Grande, AZ 85122. We will have tea, lemonade, unicorn dessert decorating, unicorn headband making......and movie time!! $25 each child $10 each adult. All craft and dessert items provided. RSVP 529.252.6346. Invoice must be paid to guarantee your seat at the table.

21

CELEBRATE THE LONGEST DAY - 11:00 AM - Garnet - 510 E. 8th St., Casa Grande. Love all of those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. Visit alz.org/seniorlifestyle. com. Lunch will be provided and for your donation you will receive a special gift #embracethefight

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ART & SIP AT TRUE GRIT 6:30 PM - True Grit Tavern, 20800 N John Wayne Pkwy., Ste. 101, Maricopa, AZ 85139 While these events are ALL-Ages, please be aware that there may be adults drinking around your minors (8+, please)! Call 602-796-8194 for more info.

QUILTING 101 CLASS - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - PM Quilting - 800 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. If you have never quilted before, this is the class for you! In this class you will learn, quilting terminology, fabric selection, cutting quilt pieces, sewing basics.

You will complete a small quilt during this class. Cost: $30 plus supplies. For more info visit pmquilting.com

ART & SIP AT TRUE GRIT 6:30 PM - True Grit Tavern, 20800 N John Wayne Pkwy., Ste. 101, Maricopa, AZ 85139 While these events are ALL-Ages, please be aware that there may be adults drinking around your minors (8+, please)! Call 602-796-8194 for more info.

CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM - 11:00 AM - On Sight Shooting 312 West 10th St., Suite 6, Casa Grande, AZ 85122 You are all invited to our 5th Annual “Celebration of Freedom” Raffle and BBQ. We will have Music, Great Food and lots of Prizes. $5 per raffle ticket. Please RSVP at 520-4236945 or on Facebook.

Submit your events online at goldencorridorliving.com 12

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

BUSINESS INDEX Absolute Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Al & Riley’s A/C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 Banner / CGRMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Brutinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96

June – July 2018

Caliche Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

JULY

Casa Grande Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW & ACTIVITIES - 6:30 PM - Paul Mason Sportsplex - 2525 N. Pinal Ave., Casa Grande, AZ 85122.

Join us for great food, games and a traditional old fashioned Fourth of July celebration. Fireworks show begins at 9PM. Free event.

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DIVE-IN-MOVIE - 7:00 PM-9:30 PM - Palm Island Family Aquatic Park, 1115 N. Brown Ave., Casa Grande, AZ 85122. The community is invited to cool off at the pool while enjoying a newly released family-friendly film. The admission fee is $3.00 per person.

Capital R Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Casa Grande Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Casa Grande Elementary School District . . . . . . . . 63 Casa Grande Main St . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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SUNSET PARADISE PAINT NIGHT - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - A Latte Vino - 958 E. Rodeo Rd., Casa Grande. Tickets available at www.paintnite.com.

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JULY CRAFT & WINE NIGHT - 6:30 PM - A Latte Vino 958 E. Rodeo Rd., Casa Grande. Bring your friends and join us for a night of fun, food, and crafting. We will be making a wooden bottle opener wall mount sign (12 X 24). $35. Space is limited, so reserve your seat today!

Venmo: @Rachel-Hutzler, Zelle: arizonachick523@yahoo.com, Google pay: Rachel.L.Hutzler@gmail.com

Central Arizona College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Coldwell Banker ROX - Brokerage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Coldwell Banker ROX - Property Management . . 102 Color Me Crazy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Cypress Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Desert Sun Heating, Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Dick & Mitchell DDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 DM Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Ed Whitehead’s Tire Pros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Elegance N Images. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Fitzgibbons Law Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Grande Innovation Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Greater CG Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Heritage Park Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

RECURRING EVENTS Every Fri: Family Day at the City Pool 5:15pm-7:15pm @ Palm Island 1115 N Brown Ave., Casa Grande.

Admission is $3.00 for a family of four and each additional member is only $0.75. Call 520-421-8677 for info.

Every 1st and 3rd Fri: Teen Night 7pm-10pm @ Len Colla Recreation Center 1105 E 4th St. Casa Grande. For students in grades 7-12. At each teen night activities are provided as a way for children to get out of the house and socialize in a safe environment. All activities are supervised and there is no fee to attend. You must be registered to attend.

Every Fri: Senior Line Dance Lessons 9am-11am @ The Woman’s Club 407 N. Sacaton, Casa Grande. All skill levels are invited to participate and dance to a wide-variety of music. Beginners are encouraged. It is sure to be a fun activity that will get you moving!

Every Fri: Color with Susie 10am11am @ Dorothy Powell Senior Center 405 E. 6th St., Casa Grande. We invite

seniors to join us on Friday mornings for Adult Coloring! It’s an opportunity to socialize with others while creating masterpieces from a coloring book.

Every Thu: Cultivating Creative Arts 1:30pm-3:00pm @ Dorothy Powell Senior Center 405 E. 6th St., Casa Grande. Weekly art class designed to increase creative expression, socialization and wellbeing. Creativity + Socialization = Wellness. Everyone is welcome with no experience needed. Call 520-4218760 for more info.

Every Tues: Crafts 9:30am-10:30am @ Dorothy Power Senior Center 405 E. 6th St., Casa Grande. Tuesday morning craft sessions are an opportunity for individuals to use their creative skills to make a widevariety of crafts.

Every Tues: Bingo Night 9pm-11pm @ Cotton Bowl Lanes 1740 N Pinal Ave, Casa Grande. Come play FREE BINGO & win prizes. Must be 21 and older.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

Jenkins Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Jewell Glass & Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Land Advisors Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Legacy Traditional Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mankel Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Mission Heights Preparatory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Norris RV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ROX Casa Grande Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 ROX Travel CG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 88 Seeds of Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Star Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Sun Life Family Health Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Title Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Yang and Horsley Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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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.

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THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

Elaine Earle

Elaine is an accomplished publisher and management professional with 20 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant and publisher of a diverse set of marketing products. Elaine and her team bring a “one firm” solution to clients. She has a passion for traveling and has been to over 35 countries.

Publisher

Tim Clarke Creative Director

Bea Lueck General Manager & Managing Editor

Tim is a digital design professional with more than 27 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.

Katie Mayer Editor & Project Manager

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.

Julie Turetzky

Jake Pagano

Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Senior Graphic Designer

Rebecca Bowen Graphic Designer

Loriann Rhodes Advertising Executive

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.

Rebecca is a junior graphic designer with over five years of experience in the design and marketing industries. She has her associate’s degree in graphic design, and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in communication. When she is not creating eye-catching visuals, she is enjoying hiking and other outdoor activities.

Loriann brings more than 10 years of media experience to ROX Media Group. Her background includes selling trade publications as well as consumer membership publications. As Account Executive, she represents LIVING Magazine and Smart Shopper and supports other ROX Media Group projects as needed.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

Jo Wobser Customer Service/ Ad Traffic Manager

David Truby Advertising Executive

Katie is an accomplished senior copywriter and editor with 12 years of experience working with everything from daily print newspapers to magazines and trade publications.

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.

Jake is an experienced and driven graphic designer whose creative design work can be found in dozens of consumer, travel and lifestyle publications throughout Arizona.

Jake is currently responsible for a number of publications at ROX Media Group including Sun Health LiveWell, Glendale@PLAY and TravelHost Arizona.

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Meet Our Team:

Jo joined the ROX Media Group team in March 2018 following a career in customer service spanning more than 20 years. This rewarding experience coupled with her skill sets as a graphic designer and photographer allow her to provide excellent service and guidance to the ROX Media Group advertising clients she serves every day.

David is an accomplished sales manager who brings more than 20 years of industry experience. He has overseen sales divisions for some of the largest merchant services companies in the U.S., including Merchant Processing International and Complete Merchant Services. About five years ago, he began focusing exclusively on the sales of advertising.

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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PINAL COUNTY P

by Staff Reports

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

Transition of the Maricopa Center for Entrepreneurship

L

Local costume company wins small-business award

L

ocally-owned custom costume online store Mythical Gardens was the recent recipient of the Pinal County 2018 AZSBDC Success Award from the Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center.

The company is an up-andcomer in the $5 billion Cosplay industry. Cosplay is a combination of the words “costume” and “play” and is a performance art where people called “cosplayers” dress up in costumes and represent a character. Cosplay is most popular among video gamers.

“Through their online store, they create opportunities for consumers to express themselves, provide healthy alternatives to escapism and find hope and joy through their own creative fantasies,” said an announcement from the Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center. “The locally owned company was one of 13 Arizona small businesses

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recognized by the Arizona Small Business Development Center (AZSBDC) recently at the state capitol for their outstanding accomplishments in the small business field.”

Owner Jenny Zarogoza, of Maricopa, discovered the idea for the company a few years ago when she traveled to the annual entertainment and comic convention San Diego Comic-Con International with her family.

“While navigating the crowds, they saw not only the variety and creativity of costumes and characters, but also took notice of what a great time everyone was having,” the newsletter said.

“A year later, they were back at Comic-Con as vendors, selling their own clothing and handmade crafts from a small table.”

For the second year, the company reserved an even larger booth, and word of mouth continued to spread. Zarogoza soon learned that some of her cus-

tomers had been turned away by other retailers, and there is much demand for fully-customized outfits and costumes.

Offerings of the company include hats, corsets, bustles, jackets, full costumes and items for character-themed events.

SBDC Director Kevin Fort praised Zarogoza for her success as an entrepreneur.

“Jenny and her team have not only proven their talent in the design field, but have shown great commitment, aptitude and versatility in organizing the business side of things, from prioritizing financial matters to securing a marketing presence, Fort said. “The CAC SBDC provided guidance, resources, and confidence where necessary to maintain a successful, thriving venture. Mythical Gardens not only provides a prosperous livelihood for a Maricopa family, but also contributes great economic value to Pinal County.”

ast fall, the City of Maricopa decided to not renew the annual contract with the Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship (NACET). The Maricopa Center for Entrepreneurship (MCE) will close over the next few days.

The City of Maricopa has funded MCE for the past four years, and over 100 clients have received services through the center’s programming. This includes assisting entrepreneurs in everything from transitioning from an employee to employer and mapping out weekly actions to developing a sales acumen and being mentored by local business leaders.

Prior to the expiration of the contract with NACET, the city issued a request for qualifications to find an organization to offer support to local entrepreneurs.

The city is considering this feedback and is evaluating the best and most efficient use of taxpayer dollars to support and advance local entrepreneurs.

“Building an ecosystem for entrepreneurs is not done in a vacuum, and oftentimes it includes partners like educational institutions, corporate partners, municipal governments and financial capital partners,” said Mayor Christian Price. “We are excited to continue to be a part of building this ecosystem as we evaluate creative solutions targeted for our city to produce excellent results while partnering

continued on page 63...

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

Y PRESS

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

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

Statewide Association Recognizes Pinal County Economic Developers

T

hree Pinal County economic developers and organizations were recently named winners of an Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) Economic Development Distinguished by Excellence (EDDE) Award.

The awards honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of the organization and also to economic growth within Arizona. Recipients are selected from a pool of nominations made by members of AAED. Richard Wilkie, CEcD, AZED Pro, economic development director for the city of Casa Grande, was recognized as “Economic Developer of the Year, Medium Community.”

Joel Millman, program manager for Pinal County, was honored as “Workforce Practitioner of the Year.”

Pinal County was named “Medium Organization of the Year.”

Wilkie and his team have been responsible for a number of significant accomplishments in Casa Grande, including the attraction of:

•

•

•

•

•

Lucid Motors Project – a $1 billion, 2,200-employee project encompassing 1.8 million square-feet of office space on 500 acres.

Dreamport Villages Project – a $4.4 billion, 6,000-employee project encompassing 5 million square-feet of buildings on 1,600 acres.

Tractor Supply DC – a $450 million, 675,000 square-foot facility on 60 acres.

LKQ Project – a $175 million, 200,000 square-foot facility on 70 acres.

Attesa Motorsports Project – $1.4 billion, 10,000-employee project sprawling across 3,000 acres.

Millman was honored for his efforts in leading the transformation of Pinal County’s new local workforce development efforts.

Previously the county was part of a consortium with Gila County for program delivery. He has been responsible for assisting the new local workforce director in identifying and building a new workforce

Left to Right: Stephanie Maack, Dedrick Denton. Greg Stanley, Udo Cook, Joel Millman, Adeline Allen, Richard Wilkie and Tim anavel.

development board, as well as implementing an improved service delivery system.

Pinal County was cited for its broad support of AAED’s education, advocacy and collaboration efforts. Those include the participation, hosting and sponsorship of workshops, meetings and presentations through the Pinal Partnership, Pinal Alliance, Pinal County and the AAED Workforce Development Symposium and Committee.

The county also takes an active role in promoting and publicly supporting many local and statewide economic development initiatives and policies.

The three awards for Pinal County and its leadership were among 10 awards presented during an evening awards dinner at the AAED Spring Conference in Oro Valley.

“The winners of the EDDE Awards truly represent the best and brightest economic development practitioners and organizations in Arizona,” said Joyce Grossman, AZED Pro, AAED’s executive director. “Their contributions throughout the state demonstrate not only a commitment to the communities they serve, but to the economic vitality across Arizona.”

ADOT projects to transform I-10 to six lanes from Casa Grande to Tucson

by Robin Layton

C

asa Grande drivers can expect to see an improved, six-lane Interstate 10 by the end of the summer of 2019.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) started work recently on two projects in the area. The $36.6 million Casa Grande project began with work-

ers improving the outside shoulders on the freeway to maintain two lanes of traffic as workers add a new lane in each direction in the median.

“We are widening both sections of I-10 – in Casa Grande and at Eloy – to improve both traffic flow and driver safety,” said Tom Herrmann, a spokesman for ADOT.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

“I-10 is a vital corridor both for commercial traffic and for personal travel, and a six-lane freeway will allow traffic to move more smoothly.”

He added, “When these projects are completed in about 16 months, I-10 will be a six-lane freeway from milepost 187 at the north end of Casa Grande all the way to Kino Parkway in Tucson.”

The Casa Grande project “includes widening I-10 between Earley (Road) and I-8 – the entire section that is four lanes today will become six lanes – replacing the bridge over Jimmie Kerr (Boulevard) and adding a westbound auxiliary lane between I-8 and Jimmie Kerr

continued on page 63...

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CITY

SPEAK I Casa Grande Mountain is now home to more than 17 miles of established and marked trails.

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TRAVEL AND TOURISM IS THIS MONTH’S THEME!

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

’m certain that when you think of travel and tourism, Casa Grande may be the last thing you think of. But maybe it shouldn’t be. Maybe we do have something to offer!

Consider this: Casa Grande used to be called “Terminus,” because it’s where the railroad ended. Later, it was named after the famous Casa Grande ruins (OK, they are located in Coolidge, but we own the name).

The point is our community is full of history, especially our downtown Main Street District. Here are some facts about this vibrant area that you may not know: • Thirty-seven buildings have been placed on the local historic register and the National Register of Historic Places.

• Three additional buildings have been placed on only the local historic register.

• We have eight history plaque locations in the Main Street District.

• The Museum of Casa Grande is located here, and is one of the National Historic Places.

• Casa Grande Art Museum is also located in the Main Street District.

• The Paramount Theatre, one of last of the original theaters built in Arizona, is located downtown.

• Coming this year, we will have our own “Neon Sign Park”, as well.

• “Casa Grande Main Street” has combined art and history in our downtown by adding “Doors to the Past” all around downtown.

Each tells a story of our past, and can be seen by walking around or taking a guided tour (For more information on the walking tours, contact the Casa Grande Main Street office).

Additionally, we have our Casa Grande parks and trails system. The city is home to 19 parks, 17 miles of trails and many sports fields and open spaces. These facilities provide us and our visitors access to a number of year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.

Casa Grande’s mountain trail park system is part of the city’s trails system master plan. With the help of some grants, volunteers and AmeriCorps groups, the mountain trails were built. Casa Grande Mountain is now home to more than 17 miles of established and marked trails. At its highest point, the mountain reaches an elevation of 2,538 feet, and provides unparalleled views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valley.

So in retrospect, maybe Casa Grande does have something to offer in the way of travel and tourism – have some fun, and enjoy it!

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

WHAT’S UP DOWNTOWN

by Rina Rien, Director, Casa Grande Main Street CA S A GRA ND E NE O N S IGN PA RK U PD A TE We won a national Partners in Preservation Grant from American Express in the amount of $144,000 to build the Casa Grande Neon Sign Park. These funds are specifically required to be spent on restoration of the signs and upgrades to site infrastructure. We are progressing with design development, and anticipate breaking ground late summer with a lighting ceremony by the end of 2018.

TH A NK Y O U FO R Y O U R S U PPO RT D U RING A RIZ O NA GIVE S D A Y !

We wish to thank community members and awesome volunteers who came out to the Spaghetti Western Dinner and supported our Arizona Gives Day “Make Your Mark on the Neon Sign Park” Campaign in April.

Your generous support resulted in over $3,000 in donations received and several thousand more in pledges. Our founders pioneering the effort on Arizona Gives Day 2018 are as follows: • Capital R Construction • Tina Cates • Laurel Champlin • Claire Davis • Marlyn Gallagher • Erin Henderson • Kelly Homol • Herman Family • Mary Hynek • Marge Jantz

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cecil Kinser Walt and Linda Lewandowski Bonnie Light Mike and Donna McBride Craig and Nancy McFarland Larry and Cindy Patterson Riggs Family John and Susan Rooney Tony and Sandi Salcido Val Vista RV Resort George and Mary Ann Versluis Mark White Lynda Williams Southwest Gas

MA KE Y O U R MA RK O N TH E NE O N S IGN PA RK Arizona Gives Day kicked off the momentum for our ongoing founders’ campaign. We anticipate accepting founders until we

Sign up for our text message service for weekly updates.

Text CGMS to 57711. You’ll be prompted to authorize the texting service with a “yes” and receive a confirmation within seconds!

have to order the materials and break ground later this summer.

You, too, can still have your family or business name represented: • • • •

$100 Founders Walk engraved paver (100 available) $250 Founders Wall embossed license plate (50 available) $500 Sign Story Plaque Sponsor (10 available) $1,000 “Tailgate Bench” Plate Sponsor (5 available)

Need more information?

Contact Rina Rien at Casa Grande Main Street or email downtown@cgmailbox.com.

Casa Grande Main Street is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization working on downtown revitalization and historic preservation. The Main Street program is designed to improve all aspects of the downtown experience. Strengthening public participation and making downtown a fun place to visit are as critical to Main Street’s future as drawing new business, rehabilitating structures and expanding parking options.

H istoric D owntown…

Experience the Difference

1 1 0 W. 2 nd S t. , Casa Grande 5 2 0 -8 3 6 -8 7 4 4 www. cg mainstreet. org

COOLIDGE, ARIZONA STATE OF THE CITY 2018

by Jon Thompson, Mayor, City of Coolidge

I Roadways have also been a topic of discussion among our residents.

We began working on repairing and replacing much-needed pavement along some of our mosttraveled roads.

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t was a pleasure delivering the State of the City address to our Coolidge Chamber of Commerce and community members in April. Coolidge is continuing on the path to a brighter future, thanks in part to hardworking city staff, organizations and individuals who have made the city a priority.

Our budget is looking brighter than ever. Our city manager, chief financial officer and City Council are always looking at ways to become more efficient.

Three important steps were made to help maintain a healthy budget outlook. We first looked at our management structure. We made consolidations within some departments without reducing headcount. Second, we sought renegotiations of existing contracts covering a wide range of products and services. This resulted in a significant reduction of costs as we head into the next fiscal year. Third, our management looked across the board for ways to automate systems reducing the amount of paperwork, printing and routing. I’m happy to report that the days of passing around papers to various departments is disappearing with the help of web and internal applications.

Roadways have also been a topic of discussion among our residents. We began working on repairing and replacing much-needed pavement along some of our most-traveled roads. Newly-paved roads can be seen near City Hall along Main Street and Vah Ki Inn Road. Additionally, we have completed new roadway along Central Avenue and Main Street. These projects have a lasting impact on the community.

Our youth and library program also are thriving.

The city’s parks and recreation department offers many programs including, T-ball, basketball, flag football, soccer and many others. Participation numbers are growing, and the demand has increased yearto-year. Likewise, our Coolidge Public Library programs for both youth and adults increased. Our new programming room hosts a wide array of activities for youth, including a LEGO building class, story time and crafts. The adult programs have expanded to include guest speakers from ASU and around Arizona. It’s rewarding to see residents take part in lifelong learning and families share in activities.

The fire and police departments continue to implement great training courses and further their acts of service in community events. Coolidge Airport was chosen as a location for a special mass casualty training involving Pinal County first responders. The event was such a success that further trainings at the airport are in the works.

I’m proud of the work of our city staff in creating a balanced budget with a projected revenue over expenditures near $250,000. Recent projects have already shown the community our dedication for improvement, and we continue to rise further each quarter.

I invite you to visit yourself. Take a stroll through the newly-paved downtown area or enjoy the many fine eating establishments and plentiful shopping.

Coolidge is really paving the way to a bright future.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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21

ELOY, ARIZONA NEW ELOY CITY HALL HAS SUCCESSFUL GROUNDBREAKING

by Joel G. Belloc, Mayor, City of Eloy

O This building will make it easier to conduct city business, centralizes staff for “one stop” access, makes a wonderful first impression for our visitors and reaffirms the city’s commitment to downtown.

n April 19, the City Council and I formally conducted the groundbreaking for the new Eloy City Hall. The new city hall is sited on 3.8 acres at the southeast corner of Phoenix Avenue and “C” Street. It will contain many of the administrative functions of the city including the council chamber, community development department, finance department, city clerk, human fesources , city council office space, generous lobby space and retail space, which is being planned for Pinal County Federal Credit Union. The building will be approximately 18,000 square feet.

Throughout the design process, we have worked with the architect to create a facility that better serves the needs of Eloy’s residents. This building will make it easier to conduct city business, centralizes staff for “one stop” access, makes a wonderful first impression for our visitors and reaffirms the city’s commitment to downtown.

The groundbreaking took place on Main Street Park under a large tent and the canopy of the existing mature mulberry trees. Over 130 people from across the county joined us for this momentous occasion in the city’s history. The event was emceed by City Manager Harvey Krauss with very nice remarks provided by each of the six councilmembers as well as

representatives of the city hall design and construction team. The tent was oriented to provide a view of the site and was framed by several pieces of heavy equipment, which provided the backdrop for numerous “golden shovel and hard hat” photos.

Grading for the project will begin the week of May 7. The construction team has mobilized the construction trailer, fencing and water service to the property. The construction is anticipated to take approximately 10 months to complete, and move-in is tentatively scheduled for March 2019.

On behalf of our city manager and City Council, we sincerely appreciate the support exhibited by our friends and neighbors throughout Pinal County who attended the groundbreaking, along with CORE Constructions’ efforts to make it a successful event. The ability to share in our pride for this important project and key milestone in the city’s history meant a lot to all of us. We are looking forward to an expeditious and safe construction process for our new building and would be happy to conduct tours with our residents and other interested parties as we proceed through its construction. We hope that many of you will join us when the ribbon-cutting is conducted to celebrate our building’s completion.

View looking northeast of the new Eloy City Hall.

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THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

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23

MARICOPA, ARIZONA WORK UNDERWAY ON SR 347 OVERPASS PROJECT Economic Opportunities Open

by Jennifer Brown, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Maricopa

“This crucial infrastructure project has been one of our biggest hurdles to growth and safety. We now begin a new chapter, and look forward to working with ADOT to build our overpass.”

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A

much-anticipated $55 million bridge that will eliminate delays at a vital intersection in the heart of Maricopa is underway.

ADOT is building an overpass that will carry SR 347 over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks just south of Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway.

“This marks the culmination of 15 years of work and fiscal prudence,” said City of Maricopa Mayor Christian Price. “This crucial infrastructure project has been one of our biggest hurdles to growth and safety. We now begin a new chapter, and look forward to working with ADOT to build our overpass.”

Trains stop traffic on SR 347 – Maricopa’s primary north-south route – as many as 60 times every day.

The bridge will remove that delay for drivers in one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona, where traffic on SR 347 is expected to double to about 60,000 vehicles a day by 2040.

At the end of the two-year project, SR 347 will have a new alignment just east of the current road, a move that will allow most of the work to be accomplished without restricting traffic on SR 347. The new alignment will require minor changes to Honeycutt and a few other roads in the immediate area.

A $15 million federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant will pay a portion of the cost of the project, with the city contributing about $14 million.

The completion of the overpass will mean enhanced opportunity for development in the southern area of the City of Maricopa. The city is hiring a firm to master plan and develop 18 acres set aside for commercial development along SR 347 south of the

railroad tracks adjacent to the Copper Sky Recreation Center. Copper Sky is a state-of- the-art recreation facility complete with fitness and aquatics centers, acres of sports fields, a fishing lake, two playgrounds and a skate park.

“The vision is to transform the property into a high quality mixed-use destination that complements the Copper Sky Recreation Complex and delivers significant social and economic impact on the community”, said Denyse Airheart, Economic Development Director for the City of Maricopa.

Both the City of Maricopa and ADOT will provide area residents with online tools to keep up with progress on the project. The city has created a web page – overpasstracker.com – to share local news and information related to the project. The city also has an Overpass Tracker Hotline: 520-316-6910.

Residents also can use the ADOT website to sign up for email messages that will inform subscribers about impacts the project will have on traffic, such as lane restrictions and work-related detours. Anyone can subscribe by visiting azdot.gov and clicking on “subscribe for updates” on the left side of the page. You can choose email updates or text messages and get updates from areas around the state of your choosing.

For more information on the SR 347 project, please visit the project webpage: azdot.gov/sr347.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

25

PH OTO BY TONY BLEI

The LIVING Interview

Philip“Wildman Phil” Rakoci Area Resident, Wild Animal Performer Interview by Bea Lueck

I

t seems area resident Philip “Wildman Phil” Rakoci was born to be wild, as they say. From the time he was a child, Rakoci was fascinated with wildlife. While many people outgrow their childhood interests, Rakoci only deepened his – earning his degrees in biology and zoology and spending his life working with the creatures he loves. You may have seen Wildman Phil and his many reptiles, birds and other animals at a local presentation, a festival or even on national television. One-part comedian and one-part scientist, Wildman Phil can usually be found with a safari hat on his head, a snake around his neck and a smile on his face. And as he gives his educational presentations here locally and across the country, the crowds are always smiling too. Wildman Phil sat down to talk with us about his career, his wildlife and why we need to respect the creatures we share our world with.

GC LIVING: So, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you became a wild animal performer.

WILDMAN PHIL: Well, it all started when I was a little kid. I always tell everyone, “I’m just a little boy who never grew up,” because I still come home with lizards and snakes in my pockets.

I have learned to take them out before doing laundry. That’s important. I’ve always had an interest in wildlife since being a child. I remember second or third grade, I learned early on you have to do book reports, and you might as well read about something you like, and so I did. I grew up every Sunday afternoon having Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom” on TV, with Marlon Perkins, and thought, “That looks fun. That’s what I’d like to do.” And then when I was fourth or fifth grade, we ended up moving into a rural place and I got to see some of these things I’d just been reading about up to that point. And the more I learned, the more questions I had, and the more I had to learn, and one thing led to another.

And then I found out that a lot of people didn’t know about the animals that they lived with, and what they did know was usually false anyway. So that’s how it all started.

GC LIVING: So, did you grow up here in Arizona?

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

WILDMAN PHIL: I am actually a Casa Grande native, born at Hoemako Hospital.

GC LIVING: Well, at least you were born, not hatched.

WILDMAN PHIL: That’s true! That’s a step in the right direction.

GC LIVING: So, what did your parents think of the pets you brought home?

WILDMAN PHIL: Well, first off, I didn’t get to bring stuff home and keep it for a long time.

I remember praying for a good solid 12 years or so that my mom’s heart would be softened and let me keep a snake or a lizard. I don’t know if it was that, or the fact that I’d done enough reading and research that she felt comfortable that I knew what I was doing, but when I was 12 years old I got to keep my first little snake that I brought home. It was a night snake. It had to stay outside. And I did great, and kept it alive, and then winter came and I convinced her that it couldn’t stay outside, so it had to come into my bedroom, and then that turned into another snake, another snake, another snake and some lizards, and whatever.

At first, they would say, “Why do you like these things?” You’re reading all these books and all that, and it’s an interest, but this is different. I mean, it’s something that

got turned around and we had pets at the time. We had gerbils and we had dogs and cats and that’s probably about it. But our next-door neighbor, when I was 13, was a first-grade teacher at Saguaro Elementary school here in Casa Grande, and she asked me one day if I would be up for bringing my animals in and telling her kids about them.

And I said, “Sure.”

GC LIVING: Who was that?

WILDMAN PHIL: Jan Shafer. And then one teacher led to another, who wanted me to talk to their kids. I ended up on the front page of the “Casa Grande Dispatch” holding a lizard the next day, and that was my first wildlife show. When it was time to graduate high school and go to college, I decided, well, I like animals, I’ll go be a biologist – kind of beating the system again, you know?

While I was in college, I wrote some letters to a variety of schools and said, “Hey, I have these animals, if you want me to come and

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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The LIVING Interview (continued)

PH OTO BY MELISSA F ELD NER

show the kids, I can.” And Mary Pettinger, who was a teacher at Saguaro, contacted me and said, “Hey, we’d like you to come to our school,” and I ended up doing that, and also going to a couple other schools. And then I found out that schools paid money for this sort of thing, which worked out well because it costs money to keep the animals alive, and as a college kid, anything that paid money, I was OK with.

When I was in college, I ended up working for the college through the continued education department, through their Elderhostel program. And my desert biology professor and hiking professor, Bill Kinnison, was a botanist. He had been teaching for the Elderhostel kind of a moonlighting gig, and they needed somebody who knew about animals, and he knew from me being one of his students that I could, apparently, do a good job.

And so I got into doing that, and I spent probably a decade, because that moved on to other programs, so I taught Elderhostel for University of Arizona, Grand Canyon University, Yavapai College, lots of different programs.

I found that people would rather be entertained than educated, so I started tricking them into learning by adding entertainment to my educational presentations. And now I travel all over basically the western U.S. doing entertainment shows/educational shows

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

at RV parks and festivals, fairs, churches, comedy clubs, schools, scout groups, and whoever will have me.

GC LIVING: So, you graduated from college with a biology degree?

WILDMAN PHIL: I got my degree in biology and zoology and kept doing what I was doing.

GC LIVING: So, what are some of the animals you currently have?

WILDMAN PHIL: Well, currently I have probably over 250. I have a lot of different things.

Things have changed a lot over the years. I ended up getting educational permits from Arizona Game and Fish Department, so I get to have some super cool stuff that most don’t get to possess, which I’m happy with. Things like a Gila monster, Mexican beaded lizard – those two are the only true venomous lizards on earth, and I have those, so that’s cool. And a couple alligators, an alligator snapping turtle, common snapping turtle, I have permits for. I have bullfrogs, an armadillo, but then I’ve got a lot of other animals – everything from a brown lemur to potbelly big, a variety of birds, like lorikeet, conure, cockatoo.

We’ve got pythons. I’ve got, I think, five species of pythons, a variety of rattlesnakes, a lot of harmless snakes, lots of lizards and a lot of tortoises.

GC LIVING: You have pet rattlesnakes?

WILDMAN PHIL: Not pets! No, none of these are pets. Well, maybe our dog. We have a pet dog.

I want that to go on the record, because it’s not all crazy stuff in our world.

GC LIVING: OK, what kind of dog?

WILDMAN PHIL: [Laughs] He’s white and little.

GC LIVING: You have a fluffy dog?

WILDMAN PHIL: No, he’s not fluffy! He’s shorthaired. He doesn’t shed very much.

GC LIVING: Wildman Phil has a fou-fou dog.

WILDMAN PHIL: His name is Marshmallow, but he’s not mine! He’s my daughter’s. I have daughters, so that’s why we have things like that. Hedgehogs aren’t fluffy, but they’re cute.

WILDMAN PHIL: But back to rattlesnakes as pets – they’re not pets. Most of the animals I have, some of them, are treated more like pets – like Stumpy the Tortoise with a Wheel – he’s definitely more on the pet side. Although he and I have a love-hate relationship, because he stinks and goes to the bathroom a lot, but ...

GC LIVING: We’ll circle on him for a second.

Stumpy is a Sulcata Toroise with only three legs?

WILDMAN PHIL: More like two-and-a-half.

He’s completely missing his front left-leg.

He’s missing part of his front right-leg.

GC LIVING: And he has a wheel attached?

WILDMAN PHIL: He does, yes. So, Stumpy the Tortoise, our two-and-a-half- legged sulcata, also known as an African spurred tortoise, came to us probably about 13 or 14 years ago.

He was dropped off missing his legs. I never really got the story. I came home one day, and on the front porch there was a milk crate with two baby African spurred tortoises in it, probably about 4 years old.

I got the first one out, and he was cool. The second one I got out and he was a little different – missing his front left-leg and part of his front right-leg. We put him out in the yard with the other tortoises, and everybody got along great. He would clunk around. We had him for a little while, and started thinking, “There has to be a way to help this guy.” So, working with my neighbor, Ken Hillery, who was a retired fabricator, we put our minds together. It took us about a year, but we finally were able to get a way to attach the wheel to him. And his first wheel was a little red Razor scooter wheel that worked out well. He outgrew that pretty quickly, because as soon as he had a wheel and he could get around better, he doubled in size the next year. And we tried an extension and we found out it was better to have a bigger wheel, and that’s what we’ve learned over the years. And basically, every year, he gets a new wheel. He actually wears them out. It’s a metal frame that holds it on, and it’s made so that as he grows, it will break off, so it doesn’t hinder his growth. He gets a new frame about every two or three years now, depending on growth.

Stumpy the Tortoise gets around great now, and he’s super nice. People love him, and he loves people. He’s literally internationally famous. A lot of it has to do with an incident in 2012 when my vehicle was stolen in the Denver, Colorado area, and he was in there. And that’s when I found out that he has more friends on Facebook than I do. As soon as the world learned that Stumpy the Tortoise was missing, I ended up being interviewed on a number of news stations. They actually found the Suburban the next day with all the animals inside. All my stuff was missing – like $10,000 worth of stuff out of it – but because Stumpy the Tortoise was in there, along with snakes and lizards and scorpions and all that, it literally made international news, and I had interviews all over the country. EveryTHE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

body just wanted to know about Stumpy the Tortoise. Nobody cared about me. Whoever stole it actually left it running with the heater on overnight, which kept everybody warm enough that they all lived, and Stumpy and all the rest were returned, and that got him lot of notoriety. He has followers everywhere that keep up with what Stumpy is doing.

GC LIVING: So, I interrupted you when you were telling me about the rattlesnakes.

WILDMAN PHIL: Oh! [Laughs] So, I have rattlesnakes. I use those in a few shows. Usually it’s a safety show for places like Central Arizona College when they have new kids in the dorms. I also do safety shows for some of the utility companies, where they have guys who’re going to be out working out in the environment where these guys might be found.

GC LIVING: Are they defanged?

WILDMAN PHIL: No, they’re regular rattlesnakes, which aren’t really that dangerous, I mean, as long as you don’t try to pet them or pick them up. They’re just snakes that, if they bit you, it could hurt a lot and you could end up in the hospital.

GC LIVING: Of which you’ve visited a time or two?

WILDMAN PHIL: Well, yeah. I actually wrote an ebook on rattlesnakes a few years ago, and it was an interactive thing, so we had a lot of video and pictures and stuff, so it worked out well to have rattlesnakes. Also the rattlesnakes have been used in a few different movies, TV shows and documentaries and different things where they need some of these animals. On January 8, 1998, I got bit by a rattlesnake while doing a presentation for Central Arizona College. Not at the campus, but at an offsite thing. And it’s a very long story, but basically I got bit by one of my

PH OTO BY TONY BLEI

rattlesnakes when I was moving it from one place to another. It bit me in the leg. I didn’t let anybody know it happened, so nobody freaked out. I got done with the class and went home to relax and rest knowing that, statistically, I was going to live through it and be fine. My brother Jeremiah, at that point, who’s six years younger than I, had been bitten probably eight or nine times by rattlesnakes. And his body had actually built a resistance to it, so I figured, “Well, I’m going to end up going down that road.”

Well, that was not the case. I ended up in the hospital, got air-evacuated to the Arizona Poison Control Center, and found out that I was having an allergic reaction to the rattlesnake venom. I was only the third person they’d ever seen with that, and only the fifth person they knew of anywhere in the world.

So they wanted to take pictures and document it all. I obviously lived through that, but then got to meet with the doctors regularly for a short time afterward. And we exchanged a lot of information back and forth, and I discovered that I probably should not get bit by a rattlesnake again. And by “probably,” I mean that their consensus is that I’d probably be dead in less than half an hour if I were to get bit –not because of the actual effect, like most people, but because my body would go into anaphylactic shock. My life has changed a little bit. I now carry an EpiPen, snake bite kit

and first aid kit and all kinds of things with me when I go out and about. And I’m a little bit more careful around rattlesnakes.

But interestingly enough, I had to have had venom in my body before to build an allergy to it, and they think that all started a few years before when I was in Louisiana and was showing a copperhead to some folks and ended up getting some venom in my system.

I’m still here and I’m alive, and I had one of the worst reactions, so there you go.

GC LIVING: Does that make you think a little bit more cautiously about your career path? Especially in light of what happened with Steve Irwin and the stingray? (Editor’s Note: Steve Irwin, known as “The Crocodile Hunter,” was a famous Australian zookeeper and conservationist known for his TV show where he handled wildlife in many dangerous situations and talked about different animals. He died in 2006 after being pieced in the heart by a stingray barb.)

WILDMAN PHIL: Right. I was just going to say that! I’m a lot more cautious in the ocean than I am around rattlesnakes. I know there are people out there who have died from rattlesnake bites. But yes, it’s changed. I’ll still handle rattlesnakes. I still go out and look for them to get pictures and take other people out to show them to them. I encounter them out in the wild or go pick them up from people’s porches or living rooms. [Laughs] Where they find them, I’m there, but I am more cautious about it.

I was cautious before, and it happened, so now it’s that next level of cautious. Not that I’m afraid of them. I still know that they’re not out there to get us, and I’m not going to say I don’t mess with them. I do, but not like my brother. Rattlesnakes usually let you know when they’re around. I go travel other places, and they have copperheads and water moccasins that are basically rattlesnakes without rattles, and you have to pay more attention there.

GC LIVING: So you do this for a living?

continued on page EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

...

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

29

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GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

Irene Rayrao

Tarras Joines-Day

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

Casa Grande Public Library

CREATIVE WRITING CONTEST WINNER

T

he Vista Grande Public Library Creative Writing Contest is an ongoing monthly contest where children write stories at the library’s Creative Writing Station.

Each monthly winner gets his or her picture taken and placed on the Creative Writing Hall of Fame, receives a free book of his or her choosing from the creative writing cart and gets the winning story published in Golden Corridor LIVING Magazine.

Youth can also write stories

at home and submit them to the library. Winners are selected by library staff members, who read through monthly submissions and choose the one that stands out, based on creative merit.

Vista Grande Public Library has hosted this contest since 2013, and receives hundreds of submissions every year. The Creative Writing Station is a fun way to get kids involved in writing and storytelling by allowing them to write about whatever they want and making it a fun experience.

Have your child stop by the Vista Grande Library in Casa Grande to enter the Golden Corridor LIVING essay contest!

This Issue’s Winner

e im T ll A f o r o th u A The Greatest

by Amara Mathew

H

ola! I am Juan Sanchez and I plan to be the greatest author of all time, but I have no chance. My mother is a maid and my father left us to pursue his dream as a mariachi.

We live on the outskirts of Mexico City, the poor part of town. I have no money for college, and no publisher will ever want to publish me. Even my mom says, “It would take a miracle, mijo.” I don’t even go to school. I work on a farm for Senor Espenosa.

He pays me very little.

With my pay, momma and I barely get by. But I do have one joy in life,

and that is to read. When I went to the library for the first time, I was amazed. I met a woman there named senora Julianna. She was an old retired woman who came there every day. She taught me to read and write. Every day after work I meet here at the library and we read.

Then I started to write. I wrote many stories about everything. Senora would always tell me, “Muy Bueno.” So I would write another story, and another.

When I got to the age to go to college, I lost faith.

We still had no money and I didn’t want to be

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

stuck working on the farm.

Senora Julianna told me, “I will make sure the world will read you stories Juan.”

She kept her word. She put signs up, and made me do readings, and she sent samples to publishers.

Finally, it paid off! A publisher told me that I had a gift. He published every one of my stories.

Before she died, senora Julianna told me I really was the greatest author of all time. I owe it all to her.

She taught me all I know about writing and told me to never stop. I won’t. I promise you that.

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FOR THE RECORD…

by Gigi McWhirter

W

hether you take your animal into a veterinary practice for an annual vaccine visit, an emergency or a sick patient examination, a patient record will either need to be created or updated as part of the comprehensive medical history. Why is the chart so important?

Just like in human medicine, a chart is created to provide a written record of your pet’s medical history. It’s “history” begins the moment you cross the threshold of the doctor’s office and stays with that animal throughout the entire relationship you or the animal has with that particular practice. Procedures, discussions, medications, diagnostics and laboratory results are kept in

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • BIZ!

that record, so the veterinary staff can use it as a reference for medical care.

Your pet’s record could look something like this: A nimal Name: “Valentina” S pecies: Canine B reed: Labrador/Poodle Mix Gender: Spayed Female Color: Red te of irt 2.14.17 Owner contact information – including your name(s), phone numbers, mailing and email addresses are also logged.

Other pertinent information such as prior medical history, allergies, whether they are indoor or outdoor pets, microchip number, and behavioral notes – like “CAUTION, WILL BITE” will also be recorded.

At each visit, the reason the

patient is being seen will be noted when you first arrive.

Once you are called to go to the exam room, the conversation for care will begin and be noted. The doctors will use that information to begin the treatment process. The doctor will log diagnostics and treatments recommended and/or used at that visit.

The chart is also used as a line item record of billable procedures. Just like the business you own or work for, payment is necessary to keep the office open, so they can continue to care for your beloved pets.

The original chart is a legal document and is the property of the practice. They can be either handwritten or computerized. You, as the pet owner can request copies – but again, the

original belongs to the doctor’s office. In Arizona, the length of time legally required to keep a written record is three years – even after an animal has passed.

If you are a seasonal visitor, you may want to keep copies of the records with you. You may also want to have copies of your records sent to your vet back home to keep continuity of care.

In nonemergency situations, please allow enough time for the staff to prepare and/or send your records to another veterinary office.

Keep your pet’s records with the same attention you do your own. As always, if you have questions about their care, discuss them with your vet, not Dr. Google.

Happy tails to you!

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

“WHAT DUTIES DO I OWE MY BUSINESS ASSOCIATE?”

The specific fiduciary duties in operating a company vary among the three most common forms of legal entities: corporation, partnership, and limited liability company.

by Nicholas Cook, Attorney, Fitzgibbons Law Offices

S

ometimes the person with whom you start a business changes, or circumstances alter your business relationship. Such changes can cause your business associate to act in a manner that is in neither your best interest nor your company’s.

To protect a business and its co-owners’ interests from such situations, the law imposes a variety of fiduciary duties on actively involved partners, managing members, officers and directors.

In simple terms, a fiduciary manages another party’s assets and has a legal and ethical obligation to put the other party’s interests ahead of his or her own.

A fiduciary duty is the highest standard of care to which an individual can be held. In a business setting, fiduciary duties help ensure that each owner is acting in a manner that is consistent with the entity’s business objectives and the interests of investors and the other owners.

The fiduciary duties in operating a company vary among the three most common forms of legal entities: corporation, partnership, and limited liability company (LLC).

Corporations Under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 10-830), corporate directors and officers must discharge their duties in good faith, with the care

that an “ordinarily prudent person” would exercise under similar circumstances, in the best interests of the corporation.

Directors and officers must act loyally and with due care toward the corporation and its shareholders. Directors and officers are not permitted to use any information, acquired while acting in their official capacity, in a way that is detrimental to the corporation. Additionally, the duty of care mandates that, prior to acting on behalf of the corporation, directors and officers apprise themselves of all necessary information to make an informed decision.

Partnerships Arizona law (A.R.S. § 29-1034) also imposes fiduciary duties on partners within a partnership. Partners owe each other, and the partnership, the duties of loyalty and due care. In fulfilling those duties, a partner is prohibited from competing with the partnership and must account to the partnership for any profits received or earned on behalf of the partnership.

LLCs An LLC is a hybrid entit y that offers the limited liability of a corporation and the passthrough taxation benefits of a partnership. In contrast to the fiduciary duties imposed in corporations and partnerships, the

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

duties owed by an LLC’s “members” are not as clearly defined.

In a 2014 case, TM2008 Investments, Inc. v. Procon Capital Corp., the Arizona Court of Appeals refused to apply specific fiduciary duties to an LLC’s members. The court found that, had the Arizona legislature wanted to impose fiduciary duties, it would have specifically done so by statute, as it did concerning corporations and partnerships. The court did point out that LLC members may create fiduciary duties by including such provisions in the LLC’s operating agreement.

Operating agreements can impose on LLC members duties that are similar to those required in a partnership or corporation.

Conclusion To achieve the protections and other benefits available to co-owners under their choice of legal entity, they should take at least three preparatory steps: • Understand which form of legal entity will best serve their personal and business objectives.

• Gain a solid understanding of their fiduciary duties to each other and to the entity.

• If they choose to operate as an LLC, seek professional guidance from their business attorney and tax professional in drafting the terms of a thorough, well-conceived operating agreement.

Nick Cook is a business and employment attorney at the Fitzgibbons Law Offices. Nick was raised in Casa Grande, attended Casa Grande Union High School, and earned his undergraduate and law degrees at Arizona State University. Before launching his legal career, Nick was a judicial extern for Arizona Court of Appeals Judge Samuel A. Thumma and a legal intern at U-Haul International. In the community, Nick volunteers his time with the Arizona Veterans StandDown Alliance, helping to provide Pinal County veterans with job interviews and finding affordable housing for veterans and their families.

Nick can be reached at 520-426-3824 or ncook@fitzgibbonslaw.com.

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI V ING BIZ! • GOLDEN

33

LAND DEVELOPMENT IN PINAL COUNTY ON THE UPSWING Kirk P. McCarville, CCIM, Pinal County Specialist, Land Advisors® Organization

Since March 2017, Pinal County’s unemployment rate has remained steady at 4.9 percent.

The county is expected to see an increase in nearly 2,900 jobs over the next two years, resulting in an annual job growth rate of 2.2 percent…

34

L

and investment and development in Pinal County has been vastly improving since the bubble broke in 2007. The City of Casa Grande is at the epicenter of major new developments.

With an ample supply of shovel-ready land, Pinal County is drawing companies from all over the nation to start up business here. Land Advisors Organization (LAO) recently closed a deal with one new project now under construction in Pinal County - LKQ Corporation – a Fortune 500 auto parts and vehicle recycling company, which has plans for a 107,000 square-foot warehouse on 156 acres of land in Casa Grande.

Another point of opportunity for job creation that LAO is working on in western Pinal County, in conjunction with Pinal County, City of Casa Grande and the Central Arizona Commerce Park, is with the addition of Lucid Motors, the Menlo Park, California-based electric car manufacturer. Lucid Motors was given an extension on the time to purchase 500 acres in Casa Grande. The extension was given to Lucid, the buyer, by the sellers and the purchase agreement is in effect. The extension allows Lucid Motors to continue to secure funding for its endeavors, which seems to be going exactly as projected.

With the rise in new development comes the need for more workers, making Pinal County a popular destination for the workforce, especially for those in the automotive and manufacturing industries. LKQ Corporation has plans to hire up to 100 people in their new

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • BIZ!

Casa Grande facility and Lucid Motors has plans to hire 2,000 employees by 2022.

Since March 2017, Pinal County’s unemployment rate has remained steady at 4.9 percent. The county is expected to see an increase in nearly 2,900 jobs over the next two years, resulting in an annual job growth rate of 2.2 percent, according to the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity industry employment projections. LAO anticipates that the Construction and Manufacturing industries will show the largest increases – evident by the companies making their way into Pinal County and more specifically into Casa Grande.

Not only is Pinal County’s industrial past success in locating industrial users improving job numbers and the economic base, but people are making their way to the area to live as well. Pinal County is one of the few counties where home buyers can take advantage of affordable home pricing. Looking at Casa Grande, Coolidge, Florence, Maricopa and surrounding Pinal County, single family permit numbers increased by an astounding 49 percent year-over-year, according to the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona.

Casa Grande and Pinal County are prime locations for the future of land development and investment opportunities in Arizona. With the market rapidly improving, we can look forward to better employment and housing opportunities for our residents.

Come and see our new office in Casa Grande at 442 W. Kortsen Road, Suite 203.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

ARIZONA

ELOY THE INTERSECTION OF VALUE, LOCATION AND OPPORTUNITY WWW.ELOYAZ.GOV 2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

1

welcome O

O n behalf of our M ayor and City Counc il, I am pleased to introduc e you to the City of E loy, Arizona and the attributes that make our city an outstanding environment for economic investment. We cordially invite you to peruse this material demonstrating why Eloy is the right choice to locate, operate and grow your business.

ELOY COUNCIL

M a y o r Joel G. Belloc

V i c e - M a y o r Micah Powell

The City of Eloy is a short 50-minute drive south from the Phoenix Metropolitan area, which has over 3 million people.

Strategically located about halfway between Phoenix and Tucson along Interstate 10 (just south of Interstate 8), Eloy has an abundance of vacant, shovel-ready land which is ideally suited for commercial and industrial development Eloy’s prime location has attracted numerous companies over the years, such as the Western Regional Distribution Center for Empire Cat, Schuff Steel, Otto Environmental Systems, and ELRUS Aggregate Systems. The City’s economic base is enhanced by the presence of Skydive Arizona at the Eloy Municipal Airport, which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world for skydiving. Further, we are home to Robson Ranch, an active adult golf community, which includes over 1,000 units (and growing!) of quality housing and resort style amenities.

The City prides itself on having a business-friendly environment that offers predictable and competent development services to our customers. We are fully capable and willing to meet your timetable to be open for business by offering expedited plan review, permitting and inspection services Thank you in advance for considering the City of Eloy. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require additional information.

C o u n c i l m e m b e r JoAnne Galindo

C o u n c i l m e m b e r Jose Garcia

C o u n c i l m e m b e r Andrew Rodriguez

C o u n c i l m e m b e r Daniel Snyder

S inc erely,

Harvey Krauss City Manager C o u n c i l m e m b e r J.W. Tidwell

2

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

freight Salt Lake City Reno

PROXIMITY Denver

Las Vegas Kingman

Flagstaff Albuquerque

Los Angeles

San Diego

Eloy El Paso

100miles Puerto Penasco MX

Nogales

200 miles 13

300 miles 400 miles

Houston

Hermosillo MX

Eloy at a Glance.....................................................................................................4 Character Areas for Future Growth ..........................................................8

Utilities......................................................................................................................11 Transportation Access ................................................................................... 12 Area Map ................................................................................................................14 Industrial Community.....................................................................................16 Agribusiness .........................................................................................................17 Strategic Partners............................................................................................ 18 Educational Foundations..............................................................................20 Key Connections ...............................................................................................26 2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

contents

Development Catalysts..................................................................................10

Produced & Published in conjunction with

ROX Media, LLC 844.729.9769 | roxmediagroup.net Elaine Earle, Publisher 520.840.1796 | cfo@roxco.com

Every effort is made to make this publication as accurate as possible. City of Eloy 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 The City of Eloy Economic Development. 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 2018. All rights reserved.

ELOY, A Z

3

ELOY

at a glance

he it of lo i a ine friendl comm nit offerin con enient acce to ma or inter tate com etiti el riced and a ea tif l nn ear ro nd climate

GET TO KNOW ELOY Access and Visibility

Eloy is located at the confluence of two major interstates, I-8 and I-10 and offers three full-diamond interchanges on Sunland Gin Road, Toltec Road and Sunshine Boulevard. In the future, these existing highway corridors, coupled with the North-South Freeway and Interstate 11, will add significant international, national, statewide and regional surface connectivity to Eloy’s growing industrial sector. The Union Pacific Railroad mainline parallels I-10 the entire width of Eloy and includes several rail spurs with access to the industrial business area.

Size

Eloy residents and visitors alike enjoy many days of sunshine and a moderate climate, most of the year.

Winter daytime temperatures range from 60 to 80, while nighttime temperatures generally average in the 40s. Area humidity is usually in the 15-30 percentrange year-round.

Taxes

T he loc al property tax rate is c urrently $1.1210/$100 assessed valuation, and Eloy’s sales tax (reviewed by the City Council on an annual basis) is 3 percent. The transaction privilege tax rate is 3 percent. For current information on taxes, visit eloyaz.gov/documentcenter/ view/732.

Photo courtesy of Volo Photo, LLC

T he c ity inc ludes approximately 113.7 square miles of land, much of it available for development.

Weather

4

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

Retail

Eloy residents are within easy reach of shopping opportunities, and enjoy a wide variety of restaurants and small shops, as well as entertainment and recreational facilities.

Aviation Access

Eloy Municipal Airport is a general aviation facility conveniently located 4 miles north of downtown.

It offers a lighted 3,900-feet by 75-feet runway and has a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) that provides 100LL fuel and Jet-A Fuel. Its mission is to encourage and advance the safe and orderly development of aviation in Eloy.

Medical Care

Sun Life Family Health Center provides residents with a full spectrum of typical health care services, including a pharmacy. More complex medical needs can be addressed within minutes at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center. The community also has 32 a i onal physicians (specialists) available, along with other medical professionals, through the Associated and Allied Health Professions in Casa Grande.

Workforce

Eloy employers draw upon a base population of nearly 117,000 residents living within 30 minutes of the city. Skilled and semiskilled workers are available to provide a stable, hard-working labor force for area employers, while workforce development programs are abundantly available through such institutions as Central Arizona College, Central Arizona Valley Institute of Technology, Arizona at Work and other programs.

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

5

ELOY

at a glance

17,412

otal o

For more information visit:

www.eloyaz.gov Age Distribution

lation

0 -9

* i n c l ud es ap p ro x i m atel y 6 , 8 0 0 i n m ates w i th i n area p ri v ate p ri so n s

10 - 19

49% 51% Male

4 ,0 0 7

3 0 -3 9

ad usted for prison population

Employees Per Business

1 ,8 4 4

20 - 29

Female

50-99

1 ,4 9 9

3 ,4 0 5

40 - 49

100+

2 ,6 1 9

5 0 -5 9 6 0 -6 4

20-49

1 ,7 4 9 6 9 5

6 5 +

1 ,5 9 4 edian

10-19

e

34.1

1-4

Population by Radius

5-9

20 miles – 76,490 25 miles - 99,244 30 miles - 117,810 40 miles - 237,771 50 miles - 1,522,366

3,798 14.54% Labor Force

6

ELOY, A Z

ce and dmini trati e

BLUE-COLLAR LABOR FORCE WITH

ROOM FOR MANAGERS

ort ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

HOUSING

Renters

O wners

65.61% 34.39% era e omm te

23 Minutes

Low 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)

6TH MOST FAVORABLE IN NATION

FREIGHT DRIVE MILES / TIME*

*ungoverned speed, rounded to 10 minute increments

CITY

DISTANCE

Tucson AZ . . . . . . . . . . .

Phoenix AZ . . . . . . . . . . .

Nogales MX . . . . . . . . . .

Yuma AZ . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Puerto Penasco MX . . .

Hermosillo MX . . . . . . .

San Diego CA . . . . . . . .

El Paso TX . . . . . . . . . . .

Los Angeles CA . . . . . . .

San Francisco CA . . . . .

Dallas TX . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Houston TX . . . . . . . . . .

New Orleans LA . . . . . .

Sea le ...........

Calgary AL . . . . . . . . . . .

Vancouver BC . . . . . . . .

Minneapolis MN . . . . . .

Detroit MI . . . . . . . . . . . .

Orlando FL . . . . . . . . . . .

51 miles. . . . . . . . . . .

54 miles . . . . . . . . . .

119 miles . . . . . . . . .

187 miles . . . . . . . . .

190 miles . . . . . . . . .

291 miles . . . . . . . . .

357 miles . . . . . . . . .

368 miles . . . . . . . . .

434 miles . . . . . . . . .

815 miles . . . . . . . . .

1,003 miles . . . . . . .

1,114 miles . . . . . . . .

1,460 miles . . . . . . .

1,483 miles . . . . . . .

1,606 miles . . . . . . .

1,619 miles . . . . . . . .

1,639 miles . . . . . . .

1,979 miles . . . . . . . .

2,076 miles . . . . . . . .

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A LOOK AT ARIZONA

DRIVE TIME 50m 60m 2h 2h, 50m 3h, 30m 5h 20m 5h 10m 5h 10m 6h 30m 12h 14h 20m 16h 10m 21h 20m 22h 40m 24h 25h 26h 30h 30h

P roperty T axes

15TH MOST FAVORABLE IN NATION

Unemployment Insurance Tax (Source, 2018 Tax Foundation State Business Tax Climate Index)

13TH LOWEST IN NATION

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 54 Miles from Eloy)

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

ELOY, A Z

7

character areas

FOR FUTURE GROWTH

Robson Ranch was initially developed in 2006, and currently provides over 1,000 up-

8

10

scale homes with quality-of-life amenities requested by active adults. Single-family housing and condominium living are complemented by facilities to accommodate a variety of sports activities including 18-hole golf, arts and crafts sessions, hiking and biking, an aquatics center, Pickleball and tennis as well as access to retail and commercial services.

New phases of development are currently under construction.

84 S Sunland Gin Rd

10

N Toltec Rd

W Battaglia Dr

ARIZONA CITY

8

ELOY, A Z

Employment Corridor

E loy’s business c orridor is home to many of Eloy’s retail and industrial employers. Frontier Street is north of and parallel to the Union Pacific Rail line as well as Interstate 10 to the south. A large inventory of vacant, industrially-zoned and utility-served property is available for development.

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

ltho h the lo comm nit a e led in the earl lo incor orated it elf a a cit in i toricall an a ric lt ral comm nit the cit i trate icall located at the cro road of nter tate and ma in it a rime location for an ind trial a ed econom

87

Eloy Municipal Airport is loc

ated approximately 3 miles northwest of downtown and encompasses approximately 100 acres. With two active runways, the airport is available to general aviation from dawn to dusk. Hangars and T-shades are located on airport properties, and aviation fuel is available for sale. The Eloy Municipal Airport is home to Skydive ArizonaT M , a world-class facility attracting skydivers from around the world. The Bent Prop Caf is located onsite for food services, as well. The city owns approximately 280 acres adjacent to the airport for a future business/ industrial park.

87

84 W Battaglia Dr

10

Downtown Eloy is the heart of the city and home to City Hall, the U.S. Post

Office, and the police and fire stations. Wrapping around the city’s governance complex and Main Street Park, the downtown area offers a host of investment opportunities for new construction and building renovation serving residential, office and retail uses. The area is also home to a number of community services, including Sun Life Family Health Center, Pinal Hispanic Council, Community Action Human Resources Agency and Eloy Veterans Center, among others.

87

10 2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

www.eloyaz.gov ELOY, A Z

9

DEVELOPMENT

catalysts

T

he city can offer an array of tools to induce desired development, including but not limited to, the sectors of aviation and aerospace, advanced manufacturing, global logistics and value-added agribusiness.

These include: •

i ni cant ind trial oned land in entor

over 5,400 acres

Predictable Entitlements Process ith it recentl re i ed onin ordinance and dated eneral lan •

Expedited review and permitting processes •

Foreign Trade Zone No. 174

•

er

acre a aila le

A foreign-trade zone is a designated location in the United States where companies can use special procedures that help encourage U.S. activity and value added – in competition with foreign alternatives – by allowing delayed or reduced duty payments on foreign merchandise, as well as other savings. Arizona offers up to a 75 reduction in real and personal property taxes for activated FTZs.

FOREIGN TRADE ZONE

Low impact fees Incentives and •

•

otential deal clo in f ndin im ro ement

Knowledgeable and coo erati e • Arizona Opportunity Zones •

taff

Arizona’s Opportunity Zone nominations were submitted on March 21, 2018 and approved by the U.S. Treasury Department on April 9, 2018, making Arizona one of the first states in the nation to have its zones officially designated.

ELOY OPPORTUNITY ZONE

The federal Opportunity Zones program allows each state’s governor to nominate up to 25 percent of the qualifying low-income Census tracts as Opportunity Zones. It was created under a provision of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was signed into law December 2017. Investors who reinvest capital gains monies in Opportunity Zone funds will receive reductions on capital gains taxes relative to the years of their investment.

10

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

UTILITIES Electrical Service

APS (Arizona Public Service) is the largest and longest-serving electric utility in Arizona and principal subsidiary of publicly-traded S P 500 member Pinnacle West Capital Corporation. Like companies in Arizona’s largest metropolitan areas, most industry in Eloy is served by this reliable and innovative utility. Locally-owned and -operated Electrical Districts (ED) 4 provide electrical energy to Eloy’s residents as well as additional businesses. A majority of their customers are agribusiness operations and/or residential consumers. A variety of energy supplies are available, and the districts are responsive to new industrial customers.

Water Supply and Service

Natural Gas Service

Southwest Gas Corporation serves the City of Eloy’s customers with adequate, reasonably priced natural gas through a distribution system that matches the needs of residential, commercial, retail and industrial consumers.

Telecommunications Service

The City of Eloy’s primary telecommunications utility provider is CenturyLink, which accommodates both voice and data services.

AireBeam Broadband will soon go live with a large, comprehensive dark’ fiber network that will cover much of the developed city, including many of the area’s existing employers.

The City of Eloy provides potable water to the majority of the city’s incorporated area. Rates are reasonable, and since the City of Eloy is a designated provider for the purposes of the State’s Assured and Adequate Water Supplies, requirements for all new developments in the Pinal Active Management Area, we are a one-stop operation for new and relocating industries.

Wastewater Collection and Treatment

Eloy’s wastewater collection and treatment system extends throughout the majority of the City’s developed areas. Its wastewater treatment plant currently has a capacity of two mgd with existing flows at under one mgd. Our WWTP’s discharge supplies are treated to Class B standards.

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

11

TRANSPORTATION

access

S

ince 1902 when the Southern Pacific Railroad built a switch west of Picacho called “Eloy,” the community has placed transportation as a priority. The location of the Union Pacific Railroad’s main line coupled with the I-10/I-8 junction make Eloy extremely attractive for companies requiring efficient transportation of goods.

Existing Vehicular/Truck Routes I n t e r s t a t e ( I - 10 ) Interstate 10 is the only “all-weather” interstate corridor that connects Los Angeles and the Pacific Coast Highway to Jacksonville (FLA) and the I-95 Corridor. I-10 is the busiest Arizona freeway, serving a daily average of 175,000 vehicles traveling between Phoenix and Tucson. Eloy contains 11.3 miles of freeway exposure, much of which is identified as commercial, retail and industrial in the city’s general plan. ADOT is currently widening and improving I-10 within Eloy’s Planning Area as part of its five-year capital plan for the area.

In t e r s t a t e 8 (I- 8 ) Interstate 8 connects central Arizona directly with the markets of Southern California, San Diego and Baja Mexico. The eastern terminus of I-8 is adjacent to the business corridor and is easily ac c essible for E loy industries and businesses, and provides a virtually uninterrupted corridor into the heart of Southern California.

Future Vehicular/Truck Routes N o rth -S o u th F re e w a y Pinal County voters recently approved an increase in the county’s sales tax for the purpose of constructing regional roadway and transit improvements. A major project will connect the eastern portion of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area and Williams Gateway Airport with I-10 and Eloy.

I n t e r s t a t e 11 ( I - 11) Congressional approval has been given to initiate a Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement as the first step to implement the country’s newest interstate freeway, I-11 which will connect the economies of Nevada and Arizona and could ultimately link Mexico and Canada through the western United States.

12

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

Photo courtesy of Volo Photo, LLC

Union Pacific Railroad

UPRR is a major Class A rail transportation provider. Its double-tracked mainline traverses the entire width of Eloy, and is parallel to I-10 and the business corridor. The UPRR mainline through Eloy connects with the Canadian border to the north, Mexico to the south, the California coast to the west and as far east as Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans. Several of Eloy’s current industries already utilize rail spurs on this line, with backing and encouragement of the state and region. UPRR is committed to the development of a major rail classification yard southeast of the city.

Aviation E lo y M u n ic ip a l A ir p o r t The city’s municipal airport is located approximately 4 miles northwest of the downtown area, and is the home to a world-class skydive operation and ancillary businesses. Eloy’s abundant clear skies, temperate weather and generally light winds provide unmatched opportunities for aviation-related enthusiasts and industries.

“ lo e cellent location on near and on the main o thern rail line for nion aci c railroad ro ide the it ith incredi le o ort nitie to not onl com ete for man fact rin areho in and tran ortation lo i tic ro ect at a re ional le el t at the tate ide and national le el a ell lo ha e eral h ndred acre of rail er ed ro ertie all acce i le the ad acent ro t interstate system and 2 international air ort in the metro hoeni area ithin mile of the cit elie e lo i on the er e of reat economic ro th ” im ana el inal o nt conomic De elo ment ro ram ana er

P in a l A ir p a r k Located just south of Eloy and adjacent to the proposed UPRR classification yard, the Pinal Airpark is owned and operated by Pinal County. A repair, maintenance and storage facility onsite is operated by Marana Aerospace Solutions (formerly Evergreen Air Center).

The county has upgraded and improved the primary runway that currently accommodates commercial aircraft, including 747s.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Arizona’s largest airport offers direct connections to international and national destinations, including more than 100 cities and four countries (Mexico, Canada, England and Germany). Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the eleventh-busiest large airport in the country, and fewer than 50 air miles to Eloy.

Tucson International Airport Located approximately 65 air miles south of Eloy, Tucson International Airport is a general aviation airport facility that offers direct connections to international and national destinations and serves southern Arizona. It is Arizona’s second-busiest airport and can easily be accessed from Eloy via I-10.

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

13

D C B A Map courtesy: Pinal County GIS Esri, HERE, Garmin, NGA, USGS, NPS

Map courtesy: Pinal County GIS Esri, HERE, Garmin, NGA, USGS, NPS

14

ELOY, A Z

Map courtesy: Pinal County GIS Esri, HERE, Garmin, NGA, USGS, NPS

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

AREA MAP

Map courtesy: Pinal County GIS Esri, HERE, Garmin, NGA, USGS, NPS

ACRES AVAIL.

WATER

POWER

SEWER

FEMA

A

300

YES

YES

YES

OK

B

300

YES

YES

YES

OK

C

500

MAYBE

MAYBE

MAYBE

OK

D

1100

MAYBE

MAYBE

NO

OK

AREA

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

15

ELOY’S industrial A

communiy

number of thriving manufacturing companies are headquartered in Eloy.

Their reasons for selecting the community as their base for operations include proximity to transportation, including rail; affordable land and construction; a steady supply of blue-collar workforce members and support from the city on development.

Otto Industries is a subsidiary of Otto Indus-

tries of North America. The company began making containers for the waste industry in 1952 and soon branched out into manufacturing recycled plastics into a wide variety of containers for industrial, commercial and residential uses.

Schuff Steel is one of the country’s largest, most-trusted and experienc ed steel fabric ators and erectors in the USA. Republic Plastics produces a range of custom and private-label foam food containers, plates, bowls and more for customers throughout the United States.

Hasa Chemicals (Hasa Inc.) is a privately held company in Eloy. Categorized under Alkalies and Chlorine Manufacturers, current estimates show this company has an annual revenue of $5 to 10 million and employs a staff of approximately 34.

San Juan Pools has been building fiberglass pools to consumer specifications for 60 years, and is pleased to be a part of the E loy industrial community.

16

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

Eloy’s growth industry

AGRIBUSINESS

E

loy emerged from the desert in 187 8-1880 as the Southern Pacific Railroad came north from Tucson on its way to Phoenix. Eloy’s ative American neighbors had already demonstrated their ability to raise crops, and with the advent of heavy duty, deep well pumps in the early 19 00s, the area’s agricultural industries emerged with cotton and grain crops. Pecans also became feasible and economically viable as well. At present, there are approximately 40,000 acres under cultivation in Eloy’s planning area.

Most of the crops are in cotton, grains, vegetables, and a small amount of guayule. Agribusiness here provides employment for some 1,000 residents and accounts for approximately 25% of the local economy.

Bridgestone Americas Inc. (The Bridgestone Group) owns and operates the Agro Operations Guayule Research Farm in Eloy. The research farm supplies guayule biomass for rubber production at the company’s BioRubber Process Research Center in Mesa. Bridgestone Corporation is the world s largest tire and rubber company.

Its products are sold in over 150 nations and territories around the world.

Monsanto-Delta Pine is a global agriculture company, developing products and tools to help farmers around the world to grow crops while using energy, water and land more efficiently.

Monsanto is a Fortune 500 company and chose Eloy as a site for cotton seed ginning and delinting processes.

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

17

strategic

PARTNERS T

he City of Eloy works closely with a number of strategic partners and organizations committed to supporting and fostering the growth of new and existing businesses and those relocating to the city. Strategic alliances, such as those between higher education and employers, provide everything from workforce development to library resources for the community.

Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state’s economic development organization, whose mission is to recruit, grow, create – recruit out-of-state companies to expand their operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to grow their business in Arizona and beyond; and partner with entrepreneurs and companies large and small to create new jobs and businesses in targeted industries. a commerce com Arizona at Work is a statewide response to the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act of 2014.

This program is a private-public partnership of private business, community and labor organizations and local and state government agencies with a mission to provide innovative workforce solutions to employers and job seekers. Their workforce development network helps employers of all sizes and types recruit, develop and retain the best employees for their needs. Arizona at Work works closely with the City of Eloy through its office in nearby Casa Grande. ari onaat or com inal Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning Organization provides transportation planning services to the communities of Casa Grande, Coolidge, Eloy and rural portions of Pinal County. It is a strategically-located corridor in which economic growth is expected to thrive. cm o or

City Hall Groundbreaking 2018 L-R City Counc ilmembers Jose Garcia, JoAnne Galindo, Vice-Mayor Micah Powell, Mayor Joel G. Belloc , J.W. Tidwell, Daniel Snyder, Andrew Rodriguez

18

ELOY, A Z

ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

Pinal Alliance for Economic Growth brings together local governments and their economic development specialists in order to retain and expand existing businesses and attract new employers to western Pinal County. inalalliance or

Pinal County Economic Development Department P inal County is loc ated in the very heart of the Sun Corridor. The county’s economic development department works closely with Eloy and other local municipalities in order to expand and support existing and new businesses in this diverse economy. This includes traditional economies of mining and agriculture as well as emerging economies of aerospace, biomedical, renewable/green technologies, high-tech manufacturing and recreation/ tourism, etc. inalco nt a o

Eloy is a city poised for su ccess ell into the comin decade t location in the heart of the ri ona d anced echnolo ie orridor a trate ic alliance et een entral ri ona olle e ima omm nit olle e and arico a omm nit olle e a re it ill rod ce talent ith the ill re ired adanced man fact rin em lo er A nd th e newly created O pportu nity one on oth ide of the ill incenti i e f rther de elo ment of the area ” Sandra W atson, CEO & President, ri ona ommerce thorit

Arizona Public Service (APS) Corporation in conjunction with the Arizona Commerce Authority provides a website where developers and real estate agents can share relevant information on available properties. ari ona ro ector com Central Arizona College has embarked on a path of partnership with local industries and businesses – in addition to core curricula classes in education, business and nursing – for students to earn stackable certificates which can lead to apprenticeships and employment centrala ed Eloy Chamber of Commerce promotes c

ooperation among businesses, trade, professional associations and governmental agencies and encourages growth of new and existing businesses and industries to enhance and diversify the local economy. elo cham er com

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

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EDUCATIONAL foundations

Q

uality education offerings are critical for a skilled and employable workforce, and Eloy proudly offers residents a variety of accredited educational opportunities from post-secondary education to preK-12.

Post-Secondary Education C e n t r a l A r i z o n a C o l l e g e (CAC) serves as Pinal County’s two-year community college. The college, located northwest of Eloy, has agreements with all three of Arizona’s Universities (i.e. Arizona State University (main campus in Tempe), Northern Arizona University (main campus in Flagstaff) and University of Arizona (main campus in Tucson), thus able to offer access to four-year degree programs in a “2 2” degree arrangement ( i.e. course work can take place on the CAC Campuses in Pinal County and students can earn a four-year degree in a number of subject areas). The college has recently transitioned its focus from a traditional academic model to curricula that is responsive to the workforce needs of Pinal County’s industries – 70 percent of which are located in and around Eloy in western Pinal County. For example, the College has formed an innovative partnership with SUNDT Construction: the company participates in classroom instruction and upon graduation, many of those students are immediately employed by SUNDT. Other local industries such as John Deere, Lucid Motors, etc. are the beneficiaries of similar modifications in the curricula with graduating students enjoying high rates of employability.

POST-SECONDARY

DISTANCE

DRIVE TIME

Central Arizona College . . . . . . . .24 miles . . . . . . . . 27 min University of Arizona . . . . . . . . . .52 miles . . . . . . . . 51 min Arizona State University . . . . . . .57 miles . . . . . . . . 60 min

20

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ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

Secondary Education S a n t a C r u z V a lle y U n io n H ig h S c h o o l D is t r ic t SCVUHS is a one-high-school district with an enrollment of 550 students and 50 teachers, administrators and staff members.

Located within the campus of SCVUHS, a wealth of information can be found in the E l o y S a n t a C r u z L i b r a r y . The Library’s automated catalog system allows both simple and complex information searches from any terminal in the system or via the Internet. Customers can choose from audio CDs, books, downloadable audio books, DVDs, eBooks, magazines, new releases, special collections, streaming video and more. This resource is a joint venture between the school district, the City of Eloy and the Pinal County Library District.

T he Central Arizona Valley Institute of Technology (CAVIT) is a public school district working in partnership with 13 area high schools, including the Santa Cruz Valley Union High School. Students in these area high schools can begin preparing for high-wage, high-demand occupations through CAVIT, such as cosmetology, emergency medical technician careers, fire science, law enforcement, massage therapy and medical, nursing and veterinary assistant careers while still enrolled in high school.

CA C’ s team of dedicated fac lt and taff i commi ed to la in the ro nd or for ne and inno ati e method of di tin i hin a a leadin comm nit colle e ro idin a ate a to hi her ed cation and re ardin career entral ri ona olle e er e a a r e earnin comm nit em o erin t dent and taff to cceed ” Dr ac ie llio re ident entral ri ona olle e

Primary Education Primary public education is accommodated by the Eloy Elementary School District, Picacho Elementary School District, Toltec Elementary School District within the city.

E l o y E l e m e n t a r y is a multicultural district serving approximately 1,000 students. The district has three neighborhood elementary schools in the downtown area. These schools provide instruction in a core curriculum, including reading, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The majority of the certified staff have at least 10 years of experience in the classroom.

T o l t e c E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l D i s t r i c t is a small, one-sc hool district that strives to provide its multicultural student body with the best elementary school instruction possible.

P i c a c h o E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l D i s t r i c t is loc ated on the southwestern edge of Eloy, near Picacho Peak. It offers a smallschool atmosphere with big school results. The entire staff, from superintendent to bus driver, is committed to the idea that all children can and should succeed in school and life.

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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Teaching Reaching Understanding Empowering Learning.

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

Education at the Speed of Industry CAC continues to work collaboratively with Pinal County/Arizona businesses to develop certificates and degrees that place students on career paths for lifelong success.

In 2016, Sundt Construction and CAC recognized a larger gap in available skilled workers, leading them to conclude that developing an all-encompassing partnership was warranted. This led to the development of: • Five customized and tailored academic pathways • National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) core certification • American Welding Safety requirements • Embed OSHA 30 • “Soft Skills” training • Level 1 and 2 certification in the trade as well as a CAC credential Results thus far have been an increased enrollment in the program from ten at the beginning of 2017 to more than 100.

CAC continues to develop partnerships with businesses like Resolution Copper, Abbott Nutrition, Wal-Mart Distribution, and Lucid Motors just to name a few.

Industry Recognized Credentials

93%

2021 Goal-100%

22

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CAC Students Residing in Pinal Co.

77%

2016-17 Region One Athletic Championships

5

Men’s Cross Country Women’s Cross Country Softball Men’s Track & Field Women’s Track & Field

45 Total Championships ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • 2018

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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Pinal County’s 2017 growth rate tops in state

By KYLEY SCHULTZ

“Both Maricopa County and Pinal County are doing exceptionally well in growth because they are the economic bases for the state.”

Economist Elliott Pollack said.

Find out why companies and people are moving to Pinal County AFFORDABLE HOUSING

• The median list price per square foot in Pinal County is $114 Significantly lower than the Phoenix Metro average of $154.

BUSINESS FRIENDLY

• Expedited permitting • Business assistance programs for those who qualify • Very aggressive economic development efforts • Low tax rates

CONVENIENT TRANSPORTATION HUBS

• Interstates 10 and 8 converge in Pinal County • Easy access to West and East Coast • Union Pacific rail line goes through Pinal County • Two international airports in Phoenix and Tucson

PLENTY TO DO

• Five state parks and hundreds of miles of trails We're a get-off-the-couch type of county!

For more information visit pinalcountyaz.gov or email timothy.kanavel@pinalcountyaz.gov 24

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ELOYAZ.gov • 2018

2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

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ELOY

f o n o i t c e s r e t n i the

, E U L A V Y T I N U T R O P P O N O I T A C O L D AN Eloy continues to evolve from a primarily agricultural economy to a diverse economy in one of the best locations in the Interstate system. With over 10 miles of freeway frontage, adjacent to the I-10 intersection with I-8, numerous truck services and paralleled/ served by the Union Pacific railroad, Eloy is ready to support today’s and tomorrow’s commercial transportation needs. Eloy is a City committed to attracting warehouse/ distribution/ecommerce, manufacturing, retail and hospitality.

Eloy has the proper workforce, location and desire to make your relocation or expansion process easy, at a price point that supports your bottom line. In other words, Eloy – At the intersection of Value, Opportunity and Location.

For more about how Eloy is the best choice for your business, please call or write:

Jeffrey Fairman, Economic Development Specialist Direct: 520-464-3178 • Cell: 602-206-5101 • jfairman@eloyaz.gov 26

ELOY, A Z

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • 2018

KEY connections he it of lo and o r comm nit artner are ro d to er e the ine e re ident and i itor in o r comm nit e elcome o r e tion and feed ac Key City Sta Members H a r v e y K r a u s s , C it y M a n a g e r 520.466.9201 jkrauss@eloyaz.gov J o n V la m in g , C o m m u n it y D e v e lo p m e n t D ir e c t o r 520.466.2578 jvlaming@eloyaz.gov Jeff Fairman, Economic Development Specialist 520.464.3178 jfairman@eloyaz.gov K e it h B r o w n , P u b lic W o r k s D ir e c t o r 520.466.3082 kbrown@eloyaz.gov

Utilities Water & Sewer: City of Eloy 520.466.3082 eloyaz.gov

Business Resources and Partnerships A r iz o n a a t W o r k 520.866.3600 arizonaatwork.com/pinal A r iz o n a C o m m e r c e A u t h o r it y 602.845.1200 azcommerce.com Eloy Chamber of Commerce 520.466.3411 eloychamber.com Pinal Alliance for Economic Growth 520.836.6868 pinalalliance.org P in a l C o u n t y E c o n o m ic D e v e lo p m e n t 888.431.1311 pinalcountyaz.gov Sun Corridor Metropolitan Planning Organization 520.705.5143 scmpo.org

Natural Gas: Southwest Gas Corporation 520.794.6444 swgas.com P o w e r : E le c t r ic a l D is t r ic t 4 520.466.7336 ed4.biz P o w e r : A r iz o n a P u b lic S e r v ic e C o m p a n y 800.240.2014 aps.com Telecommunications: CenturyLink 800.244.1111 centurylink.com

or additional information and contact information i it

elo a

o

Telecommunications: AireBeam 520.233.7400 airebeam.com 2018 • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ELOY, A Z

27

WHERE POTENTIAL BECOMES PROFIT

WWW.ELOYAZ.GOV

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

The responsibility is Yours and Mine

ity

Eloy’s mileposts 209-213, where A D OT c re w s a re building new lanes, adding a new traffic interchange at State Route 87 and creating a first-of-its-kind dust-detection zone, according to the press release. That project, which began in December, is scheduled to be completed in fall 2019.

ts

release.

Lane restrictions are expected to take place at night, leaving two lanes open for traffic in both directions during heavy travel times.

The average daily traffic along I-10 in the area of Jimmie Kerr Boulevard is 43,573 vehicles.

The other project is at

...

en

(Boulevard). We’re scheduled for completion in late summer 2019.”

Although crews will be working near travel lanes, the project at Casa Grande isn’t expected to increase congestion in the area, according to an ADOT press

and an appointment are required to meet with a business analyst. To register for an appointment go to centralaz.edu/community/business-outreach/small-business-development-center/ or call 520-494-6610. To contact the City’s Economic Development Department call 520-316-6990 or email econom icde velopment@ maricopa-az.gov.

on page

ud St

...con . o page

neurial hub in the future,” he added.

Current clients working with MCE will be able to receive services from the Small Business Development Center located at Central Arizona College’s Maricopa Campus.

The SBDC has Business Analysts dedicated to assisting local businesses in the City of Maricopa.

Registration with the SBDC

ee o e ne

Success for Every One

ol

with other public and private organizations.”

Quintin Baker, Executive Director for MCE, said the center has grown from a virtual location to a brick and mortar site that served as a centralized location for the community.

I am excited to see what becomes of the entrepre-

hospitals twice per year. It is peer reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. ”This is the only national rating of how well hospitals protect patients from preventable harm and death, such as medical errors, infections, and injuries,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group.

“Receiving an ‘A’ Safety Grade means a hospital is among the best in the country for preventing these terrible problems and putting their patients first, 24 hours a day.”

To se e Ban ner Cas a Grande’s full grade details, and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit hospitalsafetygrade.org.

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fall 2017 grades.

“It’s a tremendous honor to once again receive the highest grade possible for safety,” said Rona Curphy, CEO of Banner Casa Grande.

“I’m so proud with what we have accomplished and what we continue to do for our community.”

She added, “Our team of health care providers do an exceptional job focusing on the health care needs of our customers. We pride ourselves on making sure our patients are receiving effective and safe care every time they come to us for help.”

D e velop e d u nder t he guidance of an expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to approximately 2,500 U.S.

m un

T

he Leapfrog Group, a Washington D.C.based organization aiming to improve health care quality and safety for consumers and purchasers, has issued another ‘A’ grade to Banner Casa Grande Medical Center for patient safety. The national patient safety watchdog organization recently released its new Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades.

According to Leapfrog, Banner Casa Grande was one of 750 hospitals nationwide awarded an ‘A’ grade for its commitment to keeping patients safe and meeting the highest safety standards in the U.S. Banner Casa Grande also received an ‘A’ grade from the organization in October when Leapfrog released its

The choice for families in Casa Grande

m

Banner Casa Grande earns ‘A’ grade

Co

CONTINUED…

s

A R I Z ONA C I T Y • C A S A GR A N DE • CO OL ID GE • E L OY • F L OR E NC E • M A R ICOPA

Casa Grande Elementary School District is

Fa m ilie

PINAL COUNTY PRESS

Did You Know?

• Casa Grande Elementary has more A+ Schools and A+ Programs than any other school district in Pinal County • The District has a proven, rigorous instructional program built upon “Success for Every One” • More than 8 out of 10 families in Casa Grande choose the Casa Grande Elementary School District.

• For more than 10 years in a row, 96% of families rate their child’s school an A or a B.

Visit Your Child’s School Today!

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

WWW.CGESD.ORG

520.836.2111

GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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PINAL COUNTY MOVES FORWARD WITH KEY PRIORITIES FOR RESIDENTS

by Greg Stanley, County Manager, Pinal County

P

inal County is in the middle of one of its busiest times of the year – budget season. A decade ago, the county was entering the Great Recession. Today, revenues are up and people continue to move here for the lifestyle and affordability. There has been a steady rise over the past four years in building permits. In fact, we are currently 10 percent ahead of last year’s numbers. Our current population, according to Census estimates, have us at over 430,000 residents.

In the year 2000, Pinal County’s population was 188,000.

The Pinal County Board of Supervisors recognized that transportation is a significant issue, and challenged staff to find ways to fund our transportation needs. The resulting Regional Transportation Authority is in fullswing, despite a lawsuit from the Goldwater Institute trying to stop the collection of a half-cent excise tax for major transportation improvements in the county. Collection of that tax began on April 1. In March, Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Chris Whitten denied an injunction that would have stopped collection of the excise tax.

The RTA is going to make Pinal County a place where you can get there from here. It may seem like a long way down the road, but in 20 years Pinal County’s regional transportation will be able to handle the needs of a growing county.

We are grateful that Pinal County voters approved this measure. It’s a harsh reality that the county cannot depend on the state or the federal government to help us meet our needed transportation infrastructure.

It’s interesting to note that the excise tax is estimated to cost each household about $7.33 per month. A monthly transit pass for the Washington D.C. area costs travelers $237.

Greg Stanley 64

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THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE Economic Development, Infrastructure Expansion and Technology Are Among Improvements We feel you are getting a bargain for what you are paying.

“To fail to plan is to plan to fail,” former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill said as his country was in the middle of World War II. Taking those words to heart, our Board of Supervisors has been charting a path for Pinal County. The Supervisors have led a strategic planning initiative since 2014. We are currently in the second round of that initiative.

It’s no surprise that the board still wants to focus our efforts on economic development in this second round of strategic planning.

But there is more to put our efforts toward in order to make Pinal County successful.

Our key strategic priorities are: • Vibrant communities • Economic development • Infrastructure expansion • Financial health • Employees • Technology The strategic goals within our priorities are: • Dynamic live-work-play communities • Business needs met to assure stability and growth • Infrastructure that fosters growth and sustainability • Sound and safe financial stewardship • Talented employees that serve residents well • Technology that results in safety and efficiency

General Fund Sales Tax Up 6.9% since fiscal 2014/15 Tracking up 8.7% for the first 8 months of fiscal 2017/18 Property Valuation Growth Full Cash Values up $1.7 Billion since 2016

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

All of these strategic goals are underway, and some are becoming close to seeing major portions of them finished. One goal under the “dynamic live-work-play communities” is completing special area plans for some Pinal County communities that are unincorporated.

The board recently heard an update to a current special-area plan for San Tan Valley.

This study is taking a microscopic look at San Tan Valley. The purpose of this area plan is to examine the unique issues, concerns and needs of the San Tan Valley area to establish public policy and guidance for future growth.

There have already been several community meetings held to hear feedback and to gather ideas that residents want to offer regarding the future they want to see for San Tan Valley.

Over 700 people have attended these meetings and their input has been invaluable. It certainly indicates that the people of San Tan Valley have tremendous pride in where they live and a great desire to be involved in the development of their community.

Our second strategic priority is economic development. The county took some vital steps forward in this area in the first round of strwategic planning. For instance, goals were set to make Pinal County more business-friendly by streamlining the permit process and developing a business assistance program. All of these goals were accomplished.

This second round of strategic planning has more of a focus on keeping the wheels rolling when it comes to our progress in economic development. We are aiming to increase the number of jobs coming to Pinal County, and we are also focusing on the development of a skilled and talented labor force.

While we could just focus on bringing jobs to Pinal County, we are more focused on bringing careers to the county. The Board of Supervisors strongly pushed the state to allow Pinal to have its own workforce development board.

We were able to accomplish that and the results have been fantastic under the guidance of Joel Millman. Some of you may have already visited our Arizona@Work Pinal County Center in Casa Grande, located at 318 N. Florence St. It is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

The workforce development board is a group comprising local leaders and employ-

The workforce development board is a group comprising local leaders and employers along with county employees, and its sole focus is connecting people who want a job to employers who need workers. ers along with county employees, and its sole focus is connecting people who want a job to employers who need workers. There are regular meetings with local employers to gauge the need for talented employees and determine what skill sets are needed. One part I am most pleased with is the efforts of Arizona@Work Pinal County to reach our veteran population to find them employment and, if they need it, help with any issues they might have. Kim Rodriguez is a force of nature, volunteering with the nonprofit Honoring/ Hiring/Helping our Heroes of Pinal County (HOHP). All veterans should feel free to stop by the center, as it offers assistance to help our veterans get a job, sort out their VA Benefits or just to have a cup of coffee and meet other veterans.

Central Arizona College (CAC) is changing secondary education in Pinal. It is both leading and partnering with a multitude of agencies on a new approach to developing the workforce of the 21st Century. CAC has pushed out more classes that focus on technical development and advanced manufacturing. With the jobs forecasted by economists and emerging businesses, we’re going to need a workforce that specializes in actually building the infrastructure, such as offices, roads, electrical distribution and more.

The college is also reaching out to employers and finding out what skills they need and is working to develop programs that enhance our workforce’s abilities. Check out the advanced manufacturing academy for 7th to 10th grade students, a program that the Board of Supervisors is proud to sponsor.

As many of you know, the western side of Pinal County has been abuzz with activity

continued on page

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CECELIA J ERNEG AN

BELIND A CLIF F ORD D ARLENE MOBERLY

BERTH A SCH ROY ER

AMY BREITK REITZ

CH ERY L CH ASE D EBORAH

MOORE

D EBORAH

MOORE

CIND Y SCH AID ER

BREEZ Y J OSLY N

PETER RED W

V ICTORIA LAY NE W ARD

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CIND Y SCH AID ER

Out & About

CIND Y BARNES SU TTON

SERENA G RIF F ITH

INE

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

RACHEL KILLE-RYAN THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

D IANN PRECH EL

SH ARON V ASQ U EZ

LEE E. MCD ORMAN

J ENNY G OU LD

D IANN PRECH EL

G IBBS MERTES

MAG G IE MCMILLAN

H OLLY RAK OCI KAITEE DOLL-BELL

MAG G IE MCMILLAN

ELAINE H AD D AD

NOW

LIN

TINA LOWENTHAL-WHITMORE

STARLA W

AG G NER

K C J ONES EMILY SEBRING

J ENNIE BARTSCH

J AMIE BRASH IER

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

TH E H AMMOND

TEAM

J ENNIF ER LIPPERT

MISTY MCW

H ERTER

MONICA M G ONZ ALEZ

K EN REINSTEIN GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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SUMMERTIME – PREPARING YOUR BODY FOR EXTREME HEAT

by David Lozano, Earned Media Senior Manager, Banner Health

S

ummertime in Arizona – you can either love it or absolutely hate it. Let’s be realistic, it gets hot in this state. No matter if you’re a visitor, a part-time resident or even a native, we’re all susceptible to the extreme summer heat.

Unless you decide to stay locked up in your house during the summer months, sitting next to an air conditioner and sipping a cold drink, many of us will probably need to venture outdoors for one reason or another during the warmest months of the year.

A lot of people try to limit their outdoor activities during the summer months because it’s so hot, while others carry on as if the temperature outside was a comfortable 75 degrees Fahrenheit. But when the temperatures spike, we all need to remember the heat can cause all kinds of problems with our health if we’re not careful.

Let’s talk about the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Both conditions are

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

related to heat, but heat stroke can be more serious, and even deadly, if not taken seriously.

While symptoms of heat exhaustion are not as severe, people who suffer from heat exhaustion may still need to seek medical attention if the symptoms worsen over time.

Heat stroke can develop as a result of heat exhaustion. It’s important to note both conditions can share the same symptoms such as dizziness, headache and nausea.

“People can start out with heat cramps or exhaustion, and their symptoms can progressively get worse if they’re not careful,” said Frank LoVecchio, DO, Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center. “With heat exhaustion, the person may be dehydrated and suffering from severe muscle cramps. It’s important to get the person hydrated and moved to a cool place where his or her body can cool down and start to recover. But if the person convulses, loses consciousness or has a temperature

spike, then that person may be in the stages of developing heat stroke. At this point, the person would need to seek immediate medical treatment.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these groups of people are most vulnerable to heat-related injuries: • Older adults (65-years and older) • Infants and children • People with chronic medical conditions, such as heart conditions or obesity • Low income (homeless or those who can’t afford air conditioning) • Athletes • Outdoor workers Every year, Banner Health hospitals (especially those in Arizona) treat people suffering from some form of heat-related illness. Banner Casa Grande’s Emergency Department and Banner Urgent Care in Casa Grande treat the symptoms associated with many of these heat-related illnesses.

Dr. LoVecchio said, “If you enjoy

being outside during the hot summer months, the most important things people can do to prevent from getting heat stroke or heat exhaustion include drinking plenty of fluids, wearing loose-fitting clothes and (of course) limiting their time outdoors or staying in the shade as much as possible. The other important thing to remember is that people can develop other heat-related conditions such as cramps, heat rash and sunburns. The summer heat in Arizona is serious, and we need to make sure we protect ourselves from becoming a victim. Regardless of how healthy you are or how much water you drink, if your body is telling you that you are developing some type of heat-related illness, you need to listen to it and prevent things from getting worse.”

For information about Banner Casa Grande, visit BannerHealth.com/ casagrande, and for information about the services offered at Banner Urgent Care, visit BannerHealth.com/urgentcare.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

Do you dream of getting a good night’s sleep?

Approximately 22 million Americans suffer from a disorder known as sleep apnea. Fortunately, the sleep center at Banner Casa Grande diagnoses and treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea and other sleep disorders in children and adults.

• • • • •

Are you tired and doze off during the day?

Do you snore?

Have you been told you stop breathing during sleep?

Do you have high blood pressure?

Is your neck size larger than 16 inches (for women) or 17 inches (for men)?

If so, it may be time to put your sleep problems to rest. We can examine your sleep issues at home or with an overnight sleep study at our center. Ask your doctor if a sleep study is right for you or your child.

Sleep Center Appointments: (520) 381-6423

BannerHealth.com/CasaGrande

WORTH THEIR WEIGHT IN

by Terri Durham, Office Coordinator, Seeds of Hope

V

olunteer: noun, vol·un·teer \ ˌvä-lənˈtir / “A person who voluntarily undertakes or expresses a willingness to undertake a service.”

Seeds of Hope has been improving lives for 25 years, and volunteers are a huge part of our success. Over the course of a quarter-century, there has never been more than a handful of employees (most part-time) and yet our programs impact thousands of lives each year. This is only made possible with an army of volunteers.

The national value of volunteer time, figured by Independent Sector, is $23.56 an hour (2017).

The Independent Sector reports, “... 63 million Americans volunteer about 8 billion hours of their time, talent, and effort to improve people’s lives.” Here, at Seeds of Hope, over 200 volunteers donated a combined 6,168 hours in 2017. That’s a value of approximately $145,318!

Many of our devoted volunteers are part-time residents. They roll up their sleeves and invest in our community while they’re here. The relationships they form with our program participants are genuine. But when they pack up

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GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI LIVVING ING • YOU!

and head out of town, they leave behind an opportunity.

If you are from Arizona, you know the summer months are long and sizzling. Activities around town are at a minimum, simply because it’s too hot to be outdoors. But, Seeds of Hope programming doesn’t take the summer off, and it’s the perfect opportunity for you to try your hand at volunteering.

Whether you have one morning a week to give to our hot lunch program or an afternoon a few days a week to give to our afterschool summer homework and tutoring Power Hour at the MACC, we’ve got a place for you to give volunteering a try. We’ll work with your schedule. You can try it risk-free with no commitment, if you’re on the fence.

But experience tells us the feeling you will get when you look beyond yourself at the world around you and begin to make it a better place for someone else is addictive.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of Seeds of Hope. Join our army of community supporters. Give us a call today at 520-836-6335 to learn more about how to become a volunteer this summer.

G old

Celebratin g 25 Years 1993–2018

Spiritual, Educational, and Social Support to Casa Grande since 1993.

WWW.SEEDSOFHOPEAZ.COM THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

ASU PARTNERS WITH CENTRAL ARIZONA COLLEGE New Partnership Offers Bachelor Degree Options in Pinal County

by Meenah Rincon, Media Relations Officer, Arizona State University

A

rizona State University (ASU) in partnership with the Central Arizona College (CAC), Corporate Center, will offer undergraduate bachelor degrees for students in Pinal County, beginning fall 2018.

ASU, Central Arizona College and Pinal County community leaders collaboratively identified degrees that will provide students with expertise needed for careers in Pinal County.

ASU@Pinal will begin offering a Bachelor of Arts in organizational leadership and a Bachelor of Applied Science in applied leadership – majors that will address Pinal County’s workforce development initiatives.

Through ASU@Pinal, ASU is providing a high-quality, af-

fordable and accessible undergraduate education to Arizona residents, regardless of their geographical location. A student enrolled full-time in ASU@Pinal in the 2018-19 academic year can expect to pay a lower tuition rate than that of a four-year degree at one of the main ASU campuses.

Additionally, students may qualify for financial aid awards, such as grants and scholarships.

Maria Hesse, Vice Provost for ASU Academic Partnerships and a former community college president, explained that the partnership plays to the strengths of both institutions.

“CAC provides high quality college programs in beautiful facilities, with wonderful faculty,” she said. “Students then finish their work through ASU, graduating

with a degree from a top-tier research university, which is highly marketable. By sharing resources, we can offer a degree at a lower cost, something appreciated by parents and community leaders.”

ASU@Pinal will enable students to seamlessly transition from CAC’s associate degree program into an ASU bachelor degree program. Students attending ASU@Pinal complete lower-division courses through CAC and transition to upper-division courses offered by ASU. Courses will be taught by ASU faculty, some of whom will be community college faculty and professionals in Pinal County, who are qualified to teach university-level courses.

The two degree programs will prepare students to be future

leaders in business, nonprofit and government agencies in the Pinal community, as well as various career fields that will benefit from the knowledge and skills that these students will possess upon graduation.

“This partnership is part of the overarching initiatives that address the workforce needs of Pinal County,” Jani Attebery, Academic Dean for Workforce Development, said. “It will serve students, parents and community, as continued access to higher education is essential to developing a knowledgeable and skilled workforce.”

For admission information please visit, asu.edu/apply or schedule a visit with a CAC advisor to discuss these learning options 520-494-5410.

Choose your path Transfer to any Arizona public university or train to enter today’s advanced workforce.

Speak to an advisor today.

www.centralaz.edu EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

Your Future Begins Today!

GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR OR LI V ING YOU! • GOLDEN

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Tip of the Month: Be a “We Player” Not a “Me Player”

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GIVE YOUR CHILD A WINNING EDGE IN SPORTS

by Andrew H. Jones, Community Relations Coordinator, Sun Life Family Health Center

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hen children step on the court or field of play, they have little else on their mind besides having fun. In my opinion, that is as it should be. However, it is up to us, as the parents, the coaches and healthcare providers, to help kids avoid sports-related injuries.

Sports and physical activity at a young age help to form attitudes, habits and life skills that will influence all aspects of life. Since sports are such a significant part of many families’ lives, parents and coaches should instill healthy choices and attitudes towards athletics at an early age. The benefits of participating in competitive athletics include improved physical fitness, development of motor skills, self-discipline and development of social skills. Sports give children valuable opportunities to “learn to interact not only with other children their age, but also with older individuals like their coaches and sports officials. Kids learn leadership skills, team-building skills and communication skills that will help them in school, their future career and personal relationships” (Amanda Davis. 2013).

The top priority and goal of getting youth into sports should always be about the young people having fun and enjoying playing and participating. To achieve this, parents and coaches can work together and pay close attention to the physical and emotional well-being of the youngsters

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involved. A well-balanced lifestyle and a positive support group is imperative for a young athlete’s development and having a healthy approach to athletics.

With the increased competitiveness of today’s sports, some parents and coaches are big proponents of focusing a child’s time and training on one particular sport. They argue that if their child is to get ahead on the field, he/she needs to dedicate themselves to only one sport.

That approach may work well for high-level athletics, but concentrating on just one sport and training year-round at an early age may not be a good idea.

Each individual child’s physical development should be considered. Because they are still developing, young athletes are at a greater risk for long-term injury to their body. “Most injuries in young athletes are due to overuse. The most frequent types of sports injuries are sprains (injuries to ligaments) strains (injuries to muscles) and stress fractures (injuries to bones). Injury occurs when excessive stress is placed on tendons, joints, bones and muscle. In a growing child, point tenderness over a bone should be evaluated further by a medical provider even if there is minimal swelling or limitation in motion” (AAP. 2017). These injuries occur gradually over time when an activity is repeated over and over and strained parts of the body do not have enough time to recover and heal

between games and practice.

Parents should be aware of these factors when helping a child select a sport, but also when choosing the type of training, and the intensity of training, as well as the overall amount of time dedicated to a sport.

As mentioned by Dr. R. Jay Lee, of Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Single-sport play throughout the year can create excessive stress on specific body parts not ready for this type of intensity.” A well-balanced approach and participation in a variety of sports helps prevent your child from overdoing a sport or becoming burned out.

In addition to physical ailments, participating in and concentrating relentlessly on a single sport (or even a variety of sports) all year-round can result in burnout.

This can drain all the fun and joy right out of sports. However, in most cases burnout can simply be prevented by limiting your child’s involvement to a more appropriate level and intensity.

Playing a variety of sports at a young age allows a child to develop coordination and strength, learn diverse movements and physical skills and provide them the opportunity to discover their own interests, gifts and talents.

It may be appropriate for your child, at some stage, to focus on one sport. In this case, and if your child has the abilities and desire to do so, encourage him or her to devote time and energy to that sport and go for that college scholarship or chance to be an

Olympic or professional athlete.

However, for young children, consider a fun, healthy, well-rounded approach to sports, as this may be best for your child and family.

Is anyone in your family due for their next physical exam? We offer sports physicals year- round for every child under the age of 18 for only $25 and college sports physicals for $50. Alternatively, consider scheduling your recommended annual well-child exam, which is 100 percent-covered by most insurance plans. Your health care provider could complete the sports physical exam at the same time. At Sun Life Family Health Center, we want you and your family to be as healthy as possible and regularly-scheduled wellness exams help to ensure positive growth and development. As a team, we can help you in providing a bright, healthy future for you and your family.

References Amanda Davis. (2013). Why Should Children Play Sports. Retrieved from https://www. livestrong.com/article/160825-why-shouldchildren-play-sports/ American Academy of Pediatrics. (2017).

Sports Injury Prevention Tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/en-us/aboutthe-aap/aap-press-room/news-featuresand-safety-tips/Pages/Sports-Injury-Prevention-Tip-Sheet.aspx Dr. R. Jay Lee. (2016). 10 Tips for Preventing Sports Injuries in Kids and Teens.

Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/articles-and-answers/ prevention/10-tips-for-preventing-sportsinjuries-in-kids-and-teens

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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UNDERSTANDING YOUR PAST TO FIND YOUR FUTURE

by Donna McBride, Program Administrator/PIO and Supervisor for the CASA Unit, Pinal County Juvenile Court, Casa Grande City Councilwoman

C

esar Chavez was a man who brought honor to farm workers across the world.

His name can be found on street signs, school buildings and even parks. So how did this man, years after his death, bring together two seniors – one being a teenage girl from the Tohono O’odham Nation and the other a lady from West Virginia? The answer: at the Cesar Chavez Memorial Scholarship Dinner in Casa Grande in early March!

I was honored to spend the evening with Ralphina Andres, of Vista Grande High School, who was a recipient of the scholarships, awarded to 50 deserving seniors. I was instantly drawn to her quiet demeanor and confident poise. Ralphina’s story is captivating in that it mirrors what many hear about every day – broken families, substance abuse and struggles of survival. But what makes hers unique is the way she has stood up against the odds to find good in these life lessons.

Ralphina travels by bus 90 minutes every morning to school. Her day is filled with classes, activities and helping in the office. She then gets back on the bus for another 90-minute ride home. Some kids find it to be

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too much of a hassle. Ralphina finds it a blessing. She credits her school counselor for helping her prepare for her future. She has applied to Brown University as well as other East-Coast schools. Her goal is to become a civil servant with the United Nations. She plans to come home after college and back to the Tohono O’odham nation.

Ralphina talked quietly about the troubles of the reservation and her involvement as a youth leader, representing her district on their youth council.

After college, she will return home with a purpose. She wants to learn her native language to keep their culture alive for future generations. She wants to improve the education system on the reservation. And she wants to help build a community center. These are lofty goals for anyone, but Ralphina knows her people deserve it. She wants to be part of the solution.

She credits her grandmother as her saving grace. She is her guardian angel on earth. And when you read her essay that earned her a Cesar Chavez scholarship, you’ll understand why. In the world of violence, school shootings and broken dreams – this young lady reminds us all that it is not where we come from, but where we are going.

CESAR CHAVEZ SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY

By Ralphina Andres

I

consider myself to be a multifaceted person, but simply put, I am a biracial girl—half black, half Native American—that lives on the Reservation. I believe that my living on the Tohono O’odham Nation has molded me into an introspective individual. It is on this land that I have sat in silence and listened to my elders tell of legends about our creator, I’toi, gifted medicine men (or “ma’chi), and how the Bluebird got its color. Through all the storytelling, I have found one theme that has prevailed among others: to fight against adversity, to obtain harmony, even if it is only with oneself. I aim to do this on a grand scale for the O’odham youth.

Yet, that the himdag (“culture”) of the Tohono O’odham Nation is being threatened by alcohol and drugs. At an early age, I became well acquainted with the effects of alcohol and how it altered the attitude of my relatives. The glass bottle in the brown paper bag, held with a firm grip, and poured with the head tipped back is an image that is seared into my memory. A couple of swigs later, my mother and her sisters would be having a ball. Then, someone would reference a bad memory or a grudge, and the façade would dissipate and a fight would ensue. They would leave weeping children in their wake, crying for peace. The police would soon enter the scene, bringing that peace, but at the cost of somebody leaving—usually to a jail cell for the night. This seemed to happen more often than not.

Those children that endured this alongside me are my cousins.

Unfortunately, they would grow up to succumb to alcohol and drugs to cope with their wounds. Alden suffers the occasional psychosis and lives with pancreatitis. Marcus deals with depression and dyslexia. Delyla suffers from anxiety and suicidal tendencies.

Though we knew the capabilities of alcohol as children, we were all oblivious to the bad influences around us, for we wore rose-colored glasses like all kids at that age. But, alas, I would gain awareness and, with that awareness, a choice. I realized that my childhood wasn’t the best and they must’ve too. They took to the pipe or brown paper bag, while I latched on tight for dear life to my education that held promises of a better future.

I was fortunate to have a guardian angel in the form of my grandmother to encourage me to stay in school and excel. She is credited for my aspirations to do something great with my life.

If only more O’odham youth had the encouragement like I had to envision the bright future that can come from an education!

The Tohono O’odham Reservation is filled with youth like Alden, Marcus, and Delyla, coming from dysfunctional families like mine. My heart mourns that my fellow O’odham youth must think they are fated to live out their lives just as their elders, but that isn’t true. Though we have no control over our past, we are solely responsible for who we will become. It is up to me to break the cycle of addiction and restore hope to my family lineage, and, ultimately, the Tohono O’odham Nation. I will come back to the reservation and help my people, but I can’t stay. I won’t allow it.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

CASA GRANDE RESIDENT RECOGNIZED FOR YEARS OF SERVICE TO CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE

by Donna McBride, Pinal County Program Administrator/PIO and Supervisor for the CASA Unit, Pinal County Juvenile Court, Casa Grande City Councilwoman

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asa Grande resident Pam Burke has been a dedicated CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Coordinator for over 20 years. Even after all these years, she continues to be motivated to improve the lives of children involved in the dependency system and advocate for their best interests. Burke has taken on many additional responsibilities that have advanced her to a new level of professionalism and enabled her to be the point person on many projects for the department. She is first in line to offer help in other areas, take on extra tasks when staff are out and is willing to cross-train in new areas to further educate and develop herself.

Due to Burke’s diligence, Juvenile Court Services recently received notification

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

it was awarded the Victim of Crime Act (VOCA) grant. This grant process was driven by the work of Burke, and will bring in over $500,000, allowing the CASA program to serve more children, while continuing to strive for excellent customer service and efficiency.

Burke takes the lead with Pinal County Adoption Day. With her involvement, this event has grown in community support, judicial involvement and statewide recognition. She has solicited support from local attorneys, volunteers and court staff. Over 17 agencies and 120 volunteers participated this year. And she continues to lead by example.

Burke supports her advocates by knowing each of their cases personally. She attends court hearings with her advocates, and does

so with professionalism and pride. When she is away from the office, she organizes her work accordingly and assists advocates to have their work in early. Burke takes pride in her work, and wants to ensure that business goes on as usual in her absence.

Burke was selected for the National CASA Rural Leadership Council, thanks to recommendations from our local and state offices.

She has held the position for two years, and has been active in making sure the National CASA organization understands the work in rural Arizona, specifically Pinal County.

Her excellent work routinely brings honor to our profession, especially Pinal County Juvenile Court, the CASA program and the community members she works with every single day.

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Training with this disorder is like training with an extra 10 pounds in one of your pockets.

SHORT-LEG SYNDROME CAUSES LOWER BACK PAIN, BUT CAN BE HELPED

by Dr. Sean Paul Jenkins, Owner, Jenkins Chiropractic

T

here are many injuries that plague people the gym, but there is none more devastating than lower back pain. If you have never had lower back pain, count

yourself lucky. Approximately 85 percent of the adult population experiences lower back pain some time in their lives. If you are part of the 85 percent, it can be life-altering. Unfortunately,

If you are serious about making a change Jenkins Chiropractic is offering you a free exam spot x-ray and review of your findings for FREE .* DO not call if you are not ready to make a change!

At Jenkins Chiropractic we focus on making changes!

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there are many causes for lower back pain – some congenital and others due to injury, spinal stenosis, disc bulges, sciatica or degenerative disc disease.

I want to focus on a common condition known as short-leg syndrome. Short-leg syndrome is when one ilia (hip) has shifted posterior (backward) and inferior (low) and one leg appears shorter than the other. This can cause unequal weight distribution causing the lower vertebra to rotate to the short leg side, creating muscle spasm, nerve irritation and pain.

The causes of short-leg syndrome can be many. It can be caused by a true anatomical short leg, pelvic instability or by nerve interference.

For those of us who train often and hard, this could be a big problem, due to the repetitive nature of the exercises we do. For example, some common movements that create pain when you have short-leg syndrome are squats, walking lunges with dumbbells, bent over rows, dead lifts, boxes jumps and running, just to the name a few.

Training with this disorder is like training with an extra 10 pounds in one of your pockets. If not corrected, it will increase stress on the involved sacroiliac joint,

which in turn causes increased tension on l4 and l5 vertebra, the paraspinal muscle and nerve roots and can cause premature degenerative disc disease.

What to do if you have lower back pain Stop whatever caused the pain immediately! If you continue, it only gets worse, and it will take you longer to recover. If you do not want to stop working out, change the exercise, change the angle or change something – if the pain continues, you’re done.

Ice the area as soon as possible for at least 30 minutes to decrease inflammation.

The allopathic cure is to rest for two weeks and take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, then if it has not resolved, physical therapy in prescribed. I have seen this in my office, and have treated this condition for years with great results. Chiropractic care works wonders with short-leg syndrome and lower back pain. If there is pain associated with the patient, we want to address that first, but correction is our main priority before it becomes chronic.

No matter what you do, do something, because in life, problems don’t go away by themselves. They only get worse with time.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

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

CONTINUED…

PhoenixMart: Company is not under investigation by DOJ

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anagement f rom Phoeni x Mart, a global product marketplace, released a statement in early May saying the company is not the target or subject of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice.

“This announcement will pave the way for the company to focus on securing the financing required to accelerate construction. Our resolve is stronger than ever, and we are committed to completing this groundbreaking project as soon as possible,” according to

a PhoenixMart press release.

The marketplace will have 1,886 showroom suites where buyers can meet directly with representatives of manufacturers, distributors and material suppliers.

According to the company’s website, “PhoenixMart is modeled after existing successful marketplaces such as Yiwu Market in China and Dragonmart in Dubai, both of which host thousands of daily visitors.”

The Casa Grande business is scheduled to open in 2019.

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PUT PREVENTION ON YOUR TO-DO LIST

by Stephanie Collier, Project Coordinator, ACPP I, Casa Grande Alliance

T

he older your child gets, the more he or she will start to act on their own beliefs and opinions. This is a natural part of growing up, and is necessary for them to become thriving independent adults. Likewise, the conversations between an adult and a child about alcohol and drugs need to mature too. While “Just say no” might have been enough when they were younger, a conversation with pre-teens and teens needs to go further, like “Say no to drugs, because...”

• Their parent or other caring adult (grandparent, teacher, coach, etc.) then needs to be prepared to finish that sentence with accurate facts about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. For example: • Heavy marijuana use by teens is linked to lower grades and exam scores, making them less likely to graduate from high school or college and less likely to enroll in college.1 Nine out of 10 people with substance abuse problems started using by age 18.2 Often, parents think that when their child nears the teen years, he or she will no longer listen to them, and the teen’s peers have a greater influence. While this might be true about their fashion choices or favorite band, statistics show that, when it comes to making decisions about drugs and alcohol, this is not the case.

The “Journal of Adolescent Health” shared research that “suggests that only 19 percent of teens feel that parents should have a say in the music they listen to, and 26 percent believe their parents should influence what clothing they wear. However, the majority —

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around 80 percent — feel that parents should have a say in whether they drink alcohol.

Adolescents do listen to their parents when it comes to issues such as drinking and smoking, particularly if the messages are conveyed consistently and with authority.”3 Local data supports this, as 52 percent of youth in Pinal County said they did not use drugs because they didn’t want to disappoint their parents, and 37.8 percent said it was because they didn’t want to disappoint another adult.4 Proper monitoring is another tool parents can use to decrease the chances for youth to get into drug use and other problem behaviors. As youth get older, they want more freedom and independence. Parents can balance giving more freedom and still being in control by knowing “who, what, where and when.”

Ask your youth: • •

•

•

Who they’re going to be with? You may have a rule about meeting their friends and have their parents’ phone numbers.

What will they be doing? Are they going to see a movie, going bowling or some other activity?

Where will they be? Are you comfortable with them being without a responsible adult, or do you want them to have some supervision?

When will they return home? Make sure the time frame is appropriate for the activity. For example, if your child wants to go to a movie with a friend, but asks to be gone for five hours, the time frame doesn’t fit the activity and they need to let you know their plans for the rest of that time, or adjust the time frame to be appropriate.

Parents who ask for this information from their child in a calm, conversational manner instead of making the feel like they are being interrogated will have easier, more open communication with their child about this and other things. How will you know if your child is telling you the truth? Periodically checking up to see if your child is really doing what he or she said will let parents know if they can give more freedom or need to withhold privileges.

Another way that parents can monitor their youth is by periodically checking their child’s belongings. Parents should not be hesitate to go through their child’s room, backpack or vehicle. It’s not an invasion of their privacy – you’re doing it because you love them and want to help keep them safe, plus you share responsibility for their choices. Knowing what to look for can also help. Drug paraphernalia can be difficult to spot, because it is often designed to look like another common item to escape detection.

Parents and caring adults who are not sure what to look for or want more information on drug prevention can contact the Casa Grande Alliance for help at 520-836-5022.

1.

MTF Survey; Cobb-Clark et al, 2013; Silins et al 2014; Tucker et al 2005; Homel et al, 2014; Volkow et al

2.

3.

2014; Fergusson and Boden 2008; Brooks et al 2013. https://www.centeronaddiction.org/addiction-prevention/ teenage-addiction. Accessed electronically May 30, 2017.

Jackson, C. Perceived legitimacy of parental authority and tobacco and alcohol use during early adolescence.

4.

Journal of Adolescent Health 31(5):425–432, 2002.

2016 Arizona Youth Survey, Reasons for not using in last 30 days among 8, 10 & 12 grades, Pinal County.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

I’ll start drinking in middle school, just at parties. But my parents won’t start talking to me about it until high school. And by then, I’ll already be in some trouble.

The thing is, my parents won’t even see it coming.

START TALKING BEFORE THEY START DRINKING Teens whose parents talk to them regularly about the dangers of drugs and alcohol are 50% less likely to use drugs1, yet less than 42% of Pinal County teens report having these conversations.2

1.– 1.– Partnership for DrugDrug-Free Kids, Parents: What You Say - and What You Do— Do—Matters to Your Kids, (March 2011).

2.– 2.– Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, Arizona Youth Survey. (2016).

Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Referrals 1460 N. Pinal Avenue Casa Grande, Arizona 85122 520-836-5022 www.CasaGrandeAlliance.org Facebook: CGAlliance | Twitter: @CG_Alliance Funding was made possible by the Partnership For Success Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the State of Arizona.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

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TIF’S

10 TIPS TO SPRING INTO BETTER HEALTH

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

I

don’t know about all of you, but I love the warmer weather. Bring on that Vitamin D !

In preparation for the new season, here are some ideas to help you spring into better health. Some suggestions are small, while some are bigger, but I’d encourage you to choose a few of these tips to implement right away.

No waiting “to start on Monday” or “when I have time.” Just choose a few and get going!

1. Spring clean your house (or a room, closet or even one drawer). You know that dust contributes to allergies and asthma, but did you know that clutter can affect your health, too? Disorganization makes it difficult to find items you need. When you find yourself constantly wondering, “Where are my sneakers for the gym?” it’s time to get organized. The more time you spend looking for things, the more frustrated you may get and the more likely you’ll be to dec ide not to go to the gym. Clutter can also cause anxiety in many people (myself included!).

2. Start carrying a water bottle with you.

It’s a lot easier to stay hydrated when you have the water right next to you. If you don’t like plain water, try infusing your water with fresh fruit. I love lemon and ginger.

3. Look for a new healthy rec ipe, and then actually make it. How many times do you pin a new recipe on Pinterest or tear one out of a

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magazine, but don’t actually cook it? (I do this often.) This week, take the time to purchase the ingredients and give it a try. Maybe share the recipe with your friends.

4. Check the nutrition facts online ahead of time for food at the restaurant you’re going to visit. You may be surprised that even some seemingly healthy salads at restaurants contain over 1,000 calories! Plan ahead to make an informed c hoic e.

5. Open your purse or backpack – right now – and put some healthy snacks inside.

Consider some baby carrots, portion-controlled servings of nuts, an apple or some dried fruit. One of the reasons we often make unhealthy choices while out is simply because we didn’t plan ahead.

6. Eat more fish. Seafood has many benefits, from being packed with protein to providing us with heart-healthy and brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids. Make it a priority to eat fish at least onc e a week, preferably twic e a week.

7. Strength train. Maybe you are a cardio girl (or guy) at heart, but strength training is also such an essential part of a well-rounded fitness routine. You don’t need to have a fanc y gym membership either. Body-

weight exercises, like squats and push-ups, are very effective.

8. Visit a national, state or local park and go for a trail walk, run or hike. Fresh air and nature always does a body good. Spring is a perfect time to get out there – it’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, but not so hot that you are sweating a few minutes after walking out the door. P .S . D on’t forget that water!

9. Eat seasonal produce. Some of the healthiest vegetables come into season in spring. Asparagus is high in protein, low in calories and a rich source of various vitamins. It contains high levels of potassium, which may help to control blood pressure. Spinach is rich in iron, and a good source of many vitamins, inc luding vitamin K. 10. Manage joint pain. If you have joint pain or arthritis, staying active can stop symptoms from worsening and help protect against osteoporosis by keeping joints moving and ensuring muscles around the area remain strong. But self-management also means balancing rest with activity and not overdoing it. Exercising in the morning and warm baths or hot water bottles can reduce stiffness, while ice packs can reduce any swelling.

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE (continued) ...continued o page 6 when it comes to economic development.

Attesa, a major motorsports and research complex, should be completing its plans and receiving permits to start construction. This one project is expected to bring over 10,000 jobs to the area. Lucid Motors, a startup luxury electric car company, is still working on financing its endeavor and we believe will soon get its manufacturing plant off the paper and onto the ground. Dreamport Villages, a 618-acre park, resort and retail complex, has submitted plans to the City of Casa Grande. This project will add 5,000 to 6,000 jobs for Pinal County.

On the eastern side of the county, Resolution Copper is investing $10 billion to develop one of the deepest mines in the world.

At 7,000 feet, the company will have stateof-the-art equipment to tap into a large, rich deposit of copper. The miners will not be carrying picks and shovels, but college degrees as they mine the copper with robots, since the depth of the vein is too deep for humans to mine safely.

When you look at Pinal County’s Economic Development efforts, you see a focus on tomorrow’s technology. From Resolution Copper’s robot miners to the cars of the future being tested at Attesa and built at Lucid, Pinal County is beginning on a journey of being on the leading edge of technological revolution when it comes to jobs and cars.

A key component in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the economic opportunity zone program, which is a new national investment program that brings private capital to low-income communities in America. In a nutshell, this allows investors a tax incentive to reinvest their unrealized capital gains into opportunity funds that will lower the tax on that money if the fund invests it into this program for a specified number of years.

All the areas that Pinal County submitted to state and federal fovernment were accepted into the program. We are hoping to see the private sector work with us and the federal government to use this money to bring new investments and businesses into economically challenged areas of the county.

Looking at our objectives when it comes to Infrastructure Expansion, we are working hard to improve everything from road miles to air miles.

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Current Population: 435,000 Ranked 3rd in the State in Population Unemployment Rate: April 2018 4.9% Current Workforce: 173,751 Pinal County grew by 12,325 persons in 2017 - a 2.9% growth rate, the highest in Arizona As I mentioned before with our RTA, we have a solid plan for road construction that also includes a public transportation element.

When it comes to transportation, we know we must focus on a regional plan that benefits all of Pinal County from Mammoth to Maricopa.

Our plan that was detailed in the RTA election shows that while we want to address a needed North/South Freeway, we also know that improving arterials from Kortsen/Kleck Road to State Route 347 is important to improve the quality of life for residents in those areas.

Our efforts at improving Pinal Air Park and its marketability as not only an airplane storage hub, but a refurbishment and repair center have been going very well. Our tenants at this county-sponsored airport have been pleased at many of the improvements to the facility. But we’re not done yet. We are looking at expanding the facility in the future to include space for hospitality and more buildings to house even more clientele that would be interested in using the air park for their aviation needs.

Looking at our financial health strategic goal. This year’s primary property tax valuation is higher than last year due to increasing property values and new construction.

Through March 31, General Fund State Shared Revenue (sales and vehicle license tax) is up over 5 percent from the same period last year.

Also through the end of March, General Fund County Sales Tax is up almost 8 percent from the same period last year, fueled by retail, construction and restaurants/bars.

The Board of Supervisors plans to meet the needs of the county in serving you, our residents, while reducing the primary property tax rate. In achieving these goals, it is very important to note that our numbers can be affected by the acts of the state legislature and the governor’s office. As always, it is our hope that our coffers are not raided by the legislature in an effort to balance their own books. It’s always a waiting game until the

legislature declares, “sine die.”

One area we included on the strategic plan was employees. In order to serve you better, we know our employees must be educated, motivated and proud of their work.

Under leadership of Patrick Camunez, our Human Resources Director, Pinal County employees have been taking advantage of a myriad of programs from improving the workplace to training our future leaders. Recently, many of our directors took part in a seminar called “I Love Feedback.” While the overall goal is to encourage positive interactions between directors and our line employees, it also was a chance to learn more about our merit-based raises that will go into effect this year. We are looking forward to rewarding those employees who go above and beyond in serving you.

Our final strategic plan item is technology. In an environment that changes daily and even hourly, our information technology staff have their hands full in meeting the needs of our employees with the latest in equipment, software and communication technology. We recently completed a significant upgrade to the county radio system, switching from analog to digital. The new backbone system drastically improves the ability for all emergency service providers to communicate throughout Pinal County. One of the more difficult areas for IT is focusing on the broadband needs of the county, when it comes to online access for our employees to serve the people who need their help. Cybersecurity is a significant focus moving forward as we strive to safeguard all our digital information. Our information technology staff is working hard to keep ahead in a field that is ever changing.

In the words of our public works staff, “Whatever it takes,” our employees are working hard to earn and keep your trust as public servants. 

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SUMMER FUN:

ARIZONA ADVENTURES

Top-10 Day Trips from the Golden Corridor

by Robin Layton

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hen you live in Arizona, you don’t need to worry about taking a long and costly vacation. Our state offers a wide variety of unique towns, national parks and stunning natural formations to keep you day-tripping for a few years. You can find the perfect day’s fun for your family inside the many museums, shops and restaurants or outside on trails, lakes and Jeep tours. Whether you crave the snow of Northern Arizona or the warmth of the desert, there is a day trip for you.

1. Jerome (160 miles)

This historic copper mining town caters to the ghost hunter, art lover,

wine or beer connoisseur and history lover. After each member of your family finds something entertaining to do in the more than two dozen galleries and eclectic shops, you can meet up on the hill at the Haunted Hamburger for your c hoic e of nine burgers or many options on the “Not The Burgers” menu.

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TOMBSTONE

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3. Benson (113 miles)

2. Wickenburg (114 miles) Thick with the atmosphere of the Old West, Wickenburg is set alongside the Hassayampa River. Its quaint downtown offers shopping and a variety of restaurants including Anita’s Cocina, where you can get authentic Mexican food. You can bring your inner c owboy and let him play on the many guest ranches or soak in some Western culture at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum.

Home of Kartchner Caverns State Park, Benson will feed your love of nature. After your cave tour and visit to the museum, you can take one of the many trails around the state park. Voted the “Best Arizona Attraction” by USA Today, it is rec ommended you make online tour reservations before your day trip.

The cave is home to the tallest and most massive column in the state.

Downtown Benson pays tribute to its railroad heritage with a traditional depot. The kids will love the new train simulator at the visitor’s center!

The town is also known for the Holy Trinity Monastery. No longer an active monastery, visitors are welcome to enjoy the solitude and take some time for reflection.

4. Sedona (164 miles)

Outdoor lovers flock to the Red Rocks of Sedona for mountain biking and hiking. Enjoy the cool waters of Slide Rock State Park or the majestic natural wonders in Red Rock State

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Park. Many New Age shops will give you the information for visiting Sedona’s famous vortexes or you can take the official Vortex Tour from the several Jeep tour groups. If unique shopping venues are your thing, visit Tlaquepaque Arts Crafts Village, as well as the main street shopping district.

5. Tombstone (137 miles)

If there is one town in Arizona that offers visitors a taste of the authentic Wild West, it is this cowboy-haven. From the Boot Hill Graveyard to the Crystal Palace Saloon and Bird Cage Theatre, you can immerse yourself in our country’s early history. Multiple museums and daily gunslinger shows will keep you busy. The Crystal Palace will fill you up with choices of Wild West wings, their signature pork ribs and cool, thick milkshakes. Keep an eye on tombstone.org for the town’s many special events, which include Wyatt Earp Days, Showdown in Tombstone, Wyatt Earp’s Vendetta Ride and more.

Many New Age shops will give you the information for visiting Sedona’s famous vortexes or you can take the official Vortex Tour from the several Jeep tour groups.

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Mine and get a real feel for the life of the early miners. Jeep and golf cart tours are available to take through the town. Check out the town’s shopping district for unique jewelry, galleries and antiques. Take time out to refuel with offerings from Jimmy’s Hot Dog Company to the Mimosa Market.

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MONTEZUMA’S CASTLE 6. Montezuma’s Castle, Camp Verde (140 miles)

S pend the day with the family learning about the cliff-dwelling Sinagua culture at this national monument.

Tours offer insights into the local reptiles and medicinal plants. After your day outside, head into the cool air of the Cliff Castle Casino Hotel to pick from several restaurant choices, including the Mountain Springs Buffet.

7. Bisbee (165 miles) When the last copper mine closed, this town transformed itself into an Arizona tourism mecca. Whether ghost-hunting, mine history or arts and crafts are your thing, you can find them all – and more – in Bisbee.

Check out the Bisbee S ance Room for a fun-filled evening full of paranormal entertainment. Jump on the mine train for a trip into the famous Queen

PAYSON

Whether ghosthunting, mine history or arts and crafts are your thing, you can find them all – and more – in Bisbee.

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PRESCOTT PH OTO BY J ERRY CH INN

Honey Stand or the Trident Winery.

Ready for dinner? Swing into THAT Brewery Pub and kick back on the patio to enjoy some delicious food and one of their in-house hand-crafted micro-brewed beer selections.

10. Prescott (148 miles)

PINE 8. Payson (128 miles)

“The Heart of Arizona” brings it all together with rodeos, swimming, hiking, fishing and camping. The historic downtown offers dining and shopping.

Visit the Zane Grey Museum and see the Rim Country through the famous author’s eyes. Swing by Western Village Art Antique Coral for some unique finds. Tonto Natural Bridge offers hiking trails, the natural bridge and the park’s cavern. Fossil hunting and Indian ruins will keep the history buff enthralled. The area is also a popular

destination for “rock hounds” looking for geodes and “Arizona diamonds” (gemstone-quality quartz crystals).

After a full day of Payson touring, the Buffalo Bar and Grill will set your toes to tapping with the band and the petite dance floor will call your name.

9. Pine (139 miles)

Cruise into Pine and feel your temperature drop under the tall trees.

Saunter through the quaint downtown area to visit an art gallery or two and small specialty shops. Don’t forget the

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Come up to 5,300 feet and you’ll cool off instantly. Enjoy a stroll around the historic Courthouse Plaza and duck into one of dozens of the unusual stores and restaurants.

Immerse yourself in Western art and history at the Phippen, Smoki, Fort Whipple and Sharlot Hall museums. Outside adventures await for mountain bikers, climbers, hikers and kayakers with hundreds of miles of trails and several lakes. Throw in the Heritage Park Zoo and the Highlands Center for Natural History, and your day is full! Make sure you save some time for a stroll down the famous Whiskey Row before you head out of town.

Come up to 5,300 feet and you’ll cool off instantly.

Enjoy a stroll around the historic Courthouse Plaza and duck into one of dozens of the unusual stores and restaurants.

Mileage calculated from Casa Grande as departing point.

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T HE ATREIN OUR SCHOOLS

by Corianna Lee Many of the skills acquired in theatre, including commitment, professionalism, team work, interpersonal skills, creativity and critical thinking, are the skills that employers are looking for in future employees.

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tudents involved in drama reap many benefits from participating in their local school program.

Whether they are an actor or a technician, they claim it changes their lives. For all the lifelong thespians out there reading this, many of you are probably nodding “yes” to all of this.

March was “Theatre in our Schools” month, and campuses all over the nation celebrated how theatre enhances and changes the lives of students.

Theatre, among other arts, is required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which recognizes it as a core class required for a “well-rounded” education for students. But what are the benefits of theatre to students?

According to the blog post “79 Reasons Students Need to Study Drama in High School” published in O c tober 20 12 by a drama teac her, students learn everything from history,

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to cultural awareness and self esteem in drama class. Many of the skills acquired in theatre, including commitment, professionalism, team work, interpersonal skills, creativity and critical thinking, are the skills that employers are looking for in future employees.

Here is an excerpt from the 79 reasons that students benefit from theatre in our schools: “You will learn empathy and identification. Drama opens up new dimensions of emotional experiences.

By observing other people’s creative processes and products, it can assist you in accessing emotions, along with understanding different ways of interpreting and understanding information. In drama we express ideas, observations and feelings by making choices about roles and/or characters It will increase your ability to think – creatively, imaginatively and divergent-

ly. You will learn how to think outside the square. Drama teaches students how to become critical consumers, rather than just passive viewers.

Students are expected to question and critique their own and others’ processes and products.

You will develop higher order thinking skills. We can often be limited by our own attitudes and beliefs. Drama requires us to view things from multiple perspectives, inviting us to share control of a narrative among different players.

This automatically widens our perspectives, allowing us to synthesize and evaluate information at a much higher level.”

Theatre is the one art form that combines nearly all other art forms and reaches cross- culturally over content areas and into societies to tell our stories and give meaning to the world around us. Theatre provides students the skills they need to be successful in the future.

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The LIVING Interview (continued) ...continued o page W ILD M A N PHIL: Yes. [Laughs] G C LIV IN G : But at the same time, it’s not exactly inexpensive to feed all of the creatures you have in your menagerie.

W ILD M A N PHIL: Right. [Laughs] I’m one of those people who get to make a living doing what I like to do. You know, it’s an old adage that if you do what you like, you don’t have to work a day in your life. I’m not going to say it’s not work sometimes – it is – but I love what I do. I love working with animals, I love working with people, and I’ve had the opportunity to bring those things together.

I’m not Steve Irwin or Marlin Perkins or Coyote Peterson, where I’m out in the field looking for these things. I’m bringing the field to people, so I have to keep these animals alive. Yeah, it’s pretty costly. I probably spend more on crickets, mice and produce than probably most. A lot of that has to do with the types of animals that we have. It’s one of those things that, over the years, we have had people who have to get rid of some exotic animal. For years, people would get a hold of me because I know how to take care of these things, and it’s grown.

A lot of those have been used for educational purposes. Some of them, like our Lemur, just does not travel. She’s cool and fun, but something that unfortunately isn’t able to help educate too many of the people.

A couple years ago, my daughter, Emily, when she was 13, she came up with the idea to start an exotic pet rescue. She realized that

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there are more and more people with exotic animals, and when they have to get rid of them, you can’t just turn them in to the Humane Society or whatever. Nobody knows how to take care of them. So, she officially started Stumpy’s Exotic Pet Rescue. That was about the same time that we partnered with the Black Box Foundation locally. They’re a performing arts and educational, not-for-profit organization, and I am a performing arts educational person, and we ended up partnering up.

They are a 501(c)(3), and that helped, because now people can donate, so we were able to open Stumpy’s Exotic Pet Rescue. We get to help bring them in and, if possible, re-home them, making sure they are going to a good home, because we’re not in a hurry to try and get rid of them. We can take care of them. We have some animals that we’ve had for years and years. We have people who donate food items for the animals and supplies. We’re able to make it all work out.

G C LIV IN G : So what do your neighbors think of your zoo?

W ILD M A N PHIL: Um, [Laughs] that’s funny. A lot of my neighbors, they all react differently.

Some think it’s neat to have a small zoo in the neighborhood. We have people come over all the time who want to come over to see the animals. We have kids in the neighborhood show up at our door and go, “Hey, we hear you have some animals. Can we see them?” We generally say, “We need to talk to your parents, and here we have this nice little ‘Release of Liability’ form filled out before we let you on the property.” You know, things like that.

But, it’s one of those things where everybody reacts differently.

One of our neighbors loves to come over and talk to the animals on the other side of the fence from him. And it’s fun. And the neighbors on both sides have certain animals that they checked with us if it’s OK if they give them different food. And so they’ll bring over a head of lettuce or fruits and vegetables for the tortoises or the birds.

There are some people in the neighborhood who, honestly, I think they’re a little more worried than they let on.

G C LIV IN G : Well, you haven’t had an alligator walking down the road yet.

W ILD M A N PHIL: Right! A lot of people are super afraid of alligators, and we’ve never had one get out. We’ve had small lizards over the years get out from time to time, native stuff, but we live rurally, and most people are more worried about having a rattlesnake come out of the desert or off the golf course onto their driveway. More people get attacked by dogs every year than alligators.

And dogs get out; alligators don’t. Anyway, to me it’s all kind of silly.

G C LIV IN G : Is that a concern of yours – having animals get into your property?

W ILD M A N PHIL: Yes. I actually have a greater number of concerns and have had more trouble with animals getting into my property than my animals getting out. I seriously have lost more lizards, rabbits, birds and other small mammals, and even baby

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LET IT ALL GO IN

A I S E N Y L O P H C N FRE

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

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he tiki gods stared at me in stony silence. Since arriving in Papeete, Tahiti I had rejected pineapple one too many times and complained that the humidity was ruining my hair. My husband and I were wandering the quiet, mostly-closed-on-Sunday city before heading to the port to board the M.S. Paul Gauguin for a cruise of the Society Islands. Rounding a corner we heard the sweet sound of ukuleles and singing coming from a large barnlike building. He was hesitant to approach, but I charged in like I thought the place was air-conditioned.

Sitting in a dozen rows were men, women and children strumming every style of ukulele as they followed the music director in song. They smiled and motioned for us to sit. We sat in enchanted wonder at the achingly beautiful music in the cool shelter of their hospitality. In that instant, I let the whole pineapple/hair thing go. I

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suddenly remembered what living in the moment meant.

When we finally boarded the ship an hour later, I was relaxed and delighted to find a bottle of champagne as chilled as I was. I didn’t realize every cabin didn’t have a welcoming bottle of champagne, but more on that later. The Paul Gauguin is a small luxury ship that carries 332 passengers. My previous trip to the South Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands, had been a land trip, and we believed that a cruise was by far the best way to be able to visit Bora Bora, Mo’orea and a few of the other islands that the ship navigated.

Sailing on a small ship is such an intimate experience. By the second day, it seemed that every crew member knew every passenger by name along with their favorite table, drink order and coffee or tea preference. The entertainment was much lower key than a standard ship with thousands

of passengers, but there was always plenty to do onboard, as well as daily island experiences.

While docked at Huahine, a group of local school children in traditional dress came aboard to entertain us with dance numbers that charmed us as much as the small island did with its lagoon of blue-eyed eels dodging in and out of their tropical coral gardens.

When we returned to the ship, my husband, who had been keeping a secret for months, finally spilled that he had arranged a recommitment ceremony on the ship the following day. The embarkation bottle of champagne was part of the package that also included flower adornments for us, as well as elegant arrangements in our room. Godiva chocolates, more champagne, Polynesian attendants and a wedding cake during our celebration dinner in the French restaurant that evening, rounded out the celebration package. (My husband should teach

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EXPERT TIPS:

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French is the official language of Tahiti. Many of the locals are not fluent in English. Google Translate is a great communication app the locals are happy to use, but it helps to learn a bit of French.

The Papeete airport has poor air conditioning.

Dress light and know that flights in and out occur around midnight to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.

Most businesses in Tahiti are closed on Sundays, and the few groceries close in the early afternoon.

If you are shopping for pearls, do your homework before arriving. Pearls are abundant and shops are stocked with them, even on the most remote islands. However, they aren’t cheap.

husband classes. He’s the best!)

Bora Bora, our next island, with its abundant over-the-sea bungalows, was easily navigable as many fellow passengers discovered by renting a car at the dock and setting off on their own. Others joined a tour to feed sharks and stingrays in the azure waters.

Snorkeling opportunities, as well as jet skiing, paddle boarding, outrigger rowing and deep sea diving, were just a few of the optional adventures available in Mo’orea. The coralcolored sunsets, some featuring vivid rainbows, were included. We visited a Tahitian vanilla farm and brought back containers of pods to share with our culinary friends.

At the end of our cruise, we spent a final day in Tahiti before heading to Hawaii as a stop on our way home.

Renting a car at the airport in Kauai, we made a beeline to our favorite restaurant for breakfast. My husband

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Visiting Mo’orea while in Tahiti is easy and inexpensive. A ferry service runs between the two islands daily. To visit the other islands, only charter boats or air service is available.

Because of the volcanic nature of the island, the big island of Hawaii does not have long stretches of fine, white sandy beach to stroll on in the moonlight. Maui and Kauai would be a better choice for beach lovers.

Even though I’m not a big fan of pineapple, the tiny Tahitian variety is a sweet and delicious commodity that is not exported. You won’t get pineapple like it anywhere else in the world.

co a o an n e e e egan tip and o e 6 .

a d a c u e and e o pec a n a e ng and ee ng e o d nce o c a . o o e n o ation on e e con ac o a o o a e .co o

loves Loco Moco, which is rice with a hamburger patty that’s topped with a fried egg and gravy. I settled for a good cup of Kona coffee. Our condo rental overlooked the ocean at Poipu Beach. We enjoyed more snorkeling in the warm tropical waters in the days that followed and a trek to Hanamaulu to visit the cascading Wailua Falls.

Kauai is the perfect island to visit if you want to see much that Hawaii offers in a short amount of time.

The ability to drive from one side of the island to the other is easy, and the diverse climate provides many opportunities to enjoy a tropical rainforest that your skin will thank you for in the afternoon after soaking up the sun along the Na Pali coast in the morning. The trade winds that sing through the palm trees at night will serenade you to sleep.

If active volcanoes are a sight you want to behold, and hot lava splashing into the cool sea waters makes you

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sizzle, then Volcanoes National Park on the big island of Hawaii will set your heart aflame. It’s a remarkable sight at night, and there are many tours available from the hotels on the island so you don’t have to navigate strange roads in the dark.

After all that tropical adventure and humidity, my hair was ready to return to Arizona. However, I loved letting it go along with any worries.

Should you want to do the same, I would enjoy helping you plan your own Polynesian adventure.

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THIS SUMMER,

Stay and Play IN CASA GRANDE

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

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his summer, discover Casa Grande on a “staycation.”

What’s that, you ask? It’s when you treat yourself, friends or family members to a few nights’ stay at one of our local hotels or resorts, and enjoy relaxing by the pools and trying some of Casa Grande’s great restaurants.

Our community offers a broad range of facilities and activities, including a senior center, recreation center, libraries, bowling lanes, family aquatic park with 120-foot water slide, movie theaters and community theater, golf courses, shooting range, hiking trails and much more. More than 25 parks are located in and around Casa Grande, many with shade ramadas, sports courts (such as Pickleball), tennis, basketball, bocce ball, sports fields and playground equipment.

Or, take a few day trips – Casa Grande is a great “base” from which to explore Pinal County and Arizona.

If you want to go with friends or take family on a day out in Pinal County, there are many attractions and sights to see, including Aravaipa Canyon, Biosphere II, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Goldfield Ghost Town, Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch, Queen Creek Olive Mill; Skydive Arizona, St. Anthony Greek Orthodox Monastery and the new Superstition Zipline.

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State Parks in the county include Lost Dutchman, McFarland Historic Park, Oracle and Picacho Peak State Parks.

There are many museums in Pinal County, such as Ak-Chin Eco Museum, The Museum of Casa Grande, Oracle Historical Society and Acadia Ranch Museum, Pinal County Historical Museum(Florence), Superior Historical Museum and Superstition Mountain Historical Museum in the northwest part of Pinal County. Some of the museums are open seasonally, and some are open year-round. There are several Native American nations in close proximity to Casa Grande, and each offers exceptional gaming venues, rich history and culture as well as events.

Stop by the chamber office and pick up a street map of Casa Grande and our tourism map of Pinal County as well as brochures and information about other staycation and/or vacation destinations. We are open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You, the local residents, are the ambassadors for Casa Grande. A good ambassador finds the positive attributes of our community, and shares the good news with others. We have a fantastic community, and there are so many wonderful messages to pass along to others in a positive way.

Be proud to live, work, play and raise your family in Casa Grande!

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...continued o page tortoises from neighborhood cats coming in and dogs getting in, than I have ever had with animals getting out.

GC LIVING: So, because of your career path, you have gotten to go to a number of locations, and even television?

WILDMAN PHIL: Yes. [Laughs] GC LIVING: “The Conan Show?”

WILDMAN PHIL: I do feel blessed that I have the life that I have, and who knows where it’s going? I’m not planning on being done yet, but because of doing this, I’ve gotten to see a lot of places and do a lot of things and meet some interesting people. Some of them famous; some of them not. I’ve been in different TV shows and movies and things.

I’ve been on “The Conan Show”. I’ve gotten to meet Jeff Goldblum and (the band) Jimmy Eat World – cool people. I did some work at a lot of different festivals, events and music festivals, and had the opportunity to meet a lot of big-name bands and different celebrity people, who are pretty cool. I’ve worked with the Brave Wilderness guys, Coyote Peterson and Mark and Mario. My family and I, and our animals, have been on Ghost Adventures.

GC LIVING: The award-winning episode about the Domes!

WILDMAN PHIL: [Laughs] Yeah. That was when I found out that my kids do creepy very well.

And sacrificing my nephew Ryan was pretty cool. Growing up in Casa Grande, it was fun to enjoy the domes legally.

GC LIVING: What memory do you hold the most dear? What have you gotten to do that has really impacted you?

WILDMAN PHIL: I’ve made some really good friends because of what I do and having these animals.

When I was in high school and soon after, I was big into the bicycle (BMX) freestyling scene. We had a little group here in Casa Grande that would perform at different festivals or the O’Odham Tash Parade and different things. And to make a long story short, I ended up meeting a guy who was a big professional in that field. I ended up finding out that Dino Deluca, this professional freestyler, was just a normal guy like the rest of us, who was really good at doing super cool tricks on a bike. Do you know what I mean? He ended up moving to Casa Grande. We hung out. We’re good friends. We still chat with each other to this day. He’s a normal person, and that’s kind of what got to EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

me to not be afraid to talk to people.

I’ve had some wonderful opportunities, and all this has come about because I’m good at what I do. But as far as actual memories, I want to say the most memorable things were not necessarily meeting this person or that person.

I laugh about some of the stories. I mean, when I met a couple of guys from the band, The Fray, I had no idea who they were. I hung out with them for a few hours. We chatted just like guys would chat. And then found out later, I was supposed to get autographs for all my friends.

So that’s kind of a memory there, but a lot of mine are on the other side of it. They’re not famous people. They’re people who, because I was doing what I do, I was helping people out. And I’ll be honest, sometimes I didn’t even know it. Hearing later when somebody comes to you and is like, you know, “You changed my life,” Uh, “OK.” [Laughs] That’s why I do what I do, but it wasn’t like I woke up one morning and I’m like, “Hey, I’m going to go find somebody to change their life today.”

I’m doing what I’m doing, and to hear stories like that, those are, I think, the ones that are the best memories.

GC LIVING: What do you urge people to do when they have encounters with a scorpion, a tarantula, a non-venomous snake, or even a venomous snake?

WILDMAN PHIL: I can tell you what not to do.

Don’t turn and run the other way and run into a cactus. That’s not good. Don’t scream like a girl. That, especially if you’re around friends, isn’t good. You don’t whip out your gun and shoot away. And I guess that’s one of the reasons I do what I do, is I try to get people to understand these creatures, because unfortunately, a lot of things are all lumped into the same category – creepy and crawly – so it doesn’t matter if it’s a scorpion or a spider. Maybe it’s a caterpillar. Everything is just, “Hey, that must be dangerous,” and really they’re not.

Everything out there is out there for a reason. Now, I get it if it’s in your house. None of us wants to walk into the bathroom and step on a scorpion, and I get that. So when you come across these things in the wild, you can

usually avoid them and let them go on their way. It’s different for each creature, though.

It’s one of those things that, really, there’s very few things that are out there just trying to attack people. At the same time, they don’t purposely wake up in the morning and go, “I’m going to help a human today,” but they’re out there eating mice or eating bugs or keeping disease under control. They’re keeping various creatures’ numbers under control. They’re spreading seeds. They’re aerating the soil. They’re doing whatever they’re doing that’s helping us.

So, I guess the bottom line would be if you’re out in the wild and you find something, get a good picture. At the same time, stay away from it, and don’t get too close. Don’t try to handle it, especially if you don’t know what you’re dealing with. Also, you stay in your house, and let them stay in theirs. You can visit each other’s houses, but try to be nice.

If you find a scorpion in your house, honestly, you’re not going to greatly impact the ecosystem in your neighborhood by smashing the scorpion that you find crawling behind your toilet. You’re not going to want a trip to the hospital or be in pain, so you might want to take care of that. Now, if you get something like a rattlesnake or skunk in your house, that’s a little bit different. You call somebody who is a professional that will come and get it – animal control, the fire department or myself, or somebody that you know who specializes in removal. A lot of pest control services take care of some of those kinds of creatures, and if not, they know somebody who does.

I want people to know the facts about these things. If you find a bird with an injured wing, there are definitely people who come take care of that. I get calls every once in awhile, “We have a baby owl.” There are a lot of specialized rescues that can help raise, rehabilitate and, if possible, release the animal back into the wild. If you find something injured or suspect to be injured, get a hold of somebody who knows the animal.

Understanding and knowing the wildlife is the key, which is why I do what I do.  OR LI V ING THE INTERV IE W • GOLDEN GOLDEN CORRID CORRIDOR VING

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Special Section: Travel & Tourism

TRAVEL LIGHT, AND CARRY ON The 10 Golden Rules of Travel

by Tori Ward, ROX Travel, Cruise and Resort Specialist

I

’m sitting in an airport lounge as I write this, feeling confident I’ve packed everything I need to revisit China. I’m with my favorite travel companion and photographer, my husband Jerry Chinn. We are such total opposites. I packed for this trip last night, while he started packing a month ago. We travel so often, though, that I know I’m not going to need three flashlights, not as long as I stay close to him. I have an essential list that I check off and then add nonessentials in the space that remains in my suitcase.

As different as we are though, there are some “Golden Rules of Travel” that we adhere to wherever we go:

err

2 .

1 . Pack lig htly, and make smart choices.

Take items that can serve dual purposes and clothing that will wash and dry quickly.

I learned this lesson the first time I went to Europe and trimmed a huge suitcase down to a single backpack. I still laugh that, to this day, the single most important item in the bag was my shampoo. I used it to wash my hair and my clothes.

PRO TIP: A neutral colored tunic-length jacket can pair with jeans or tights for flights and can be buttoned and dressed up with a scarf for dinner. Wear the heaviest shoes you are going to need on the plane, and make sure the jacket has lots of pockets so you don’t have to pack a purse. Keep a list of essentials you must take, and like Santa, check it twice! When traveling, never forget to pack your sense of humor.

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e otenti tr e o nions o t for test r n I will never take a trip with anyone who I haven’t vetted on at least an overnighter that includes public transportation, restaurant dining and early morning meet-up times.

A casual acquaintance who invited herself along on a trip to Paris with two very dear friends quickly turned every event into drama. She never shut up on the flights, took two large suitcases that had to be checked, causing stress and delay, and sent us on a spree of super marches in search of softer toilet tissue in Paris.

n

fortunate enough to attend the opera one night and go to a service at the chapel the following morning to hear the Vienna Boys Choir. It took some research, though, to find out where the chapel was located and to know to buy tickets early so we weren’t sitting behind a post.

4 .

on t e o e tot re i nt on rti i intellig ence or a travel companion’ s dayti er re rdin i t d tes nd ti es Check details yourself.

A few years ago, we showed up at the Air Canada counter at 10:30 p.m. for the first leg of a flight to Japan. The fact that we were the only ones in line was a strong indication that something was off. The trip tracker application my hubby was using had us at the airport a day early. They’ve since gone out of business.

5 .

e re tions to st e t This starts with hydration before, during and after boarding. A refillable water container if you’re going to a foreign country will hold you long enough to find bottled water.

PRO TIP: Unless you want to be a handler, leave the drama queens – and those who travel differently than you – at home.

3 .

o rese r o t o r o tion efore you leave. Why does this area call you to visit? If you are going to Milan to see “The Last Supper,” research will help you avoid disappointment when you discover you should have purchased a ticket months beforehand.

When I was in Vienna is 2003 I was

THE SUMMER FUN EDITION • EARLY SUMMER 2018

Special Section: Travel & Tourism

ori in P

eete

iti

err in o d to n

ei in

in

Tori at the Great Wall, China

JERRY’S FAVORITE TRAVEL ACCESSORIES • Dual-voltage immersion water heater (along with instant coffee packets) • Battery-powered, motion-sensing night light • Flashlight to keep on night table • Mini travel multi-tool, without knife blade

ori nd fo nt in t t e entr n e to Petr

ord n

PRO TIP: Once you arrive, stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Don’t eat raw vegetables or fruits unless you can first wash and then peel them. As much as I crave a crisp salad after days of rice in China, it’s not worth getting sick. Take lots of disposable hand sanitizers and tissue. Don’t forget to stick them in those pockets of your jacket so you have cleaners or tissue when you need them most.

8 .

6 . A void new shoes. Wear shoes you can slip off and on easily, both for airport security and comfort walking through museums, wandering city streets or running to catch the train.

PRO TIP: Take compression socks for long flights, but put your shoes on if you get out of your seat.

7 .

se o r de it rd for rren e chang e and g et your cash at an A TM. Get money daily or every other day so that you carry small amounts of currency at a time in case you are the victim of theft.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

• • • • •

Rubber shower shoes/flip-flops (also work as slippers) Compact travel humidifier All-in-one universal power adapter Dual-voltage travel appliances and chargers A stretchy clothesline

PRO TIP: Check with your bank before your trip to determine if there is an affiliated branch at your destination. Many banks don’t charge members foreign transaction fees. Exchange rates can fluctuate daily and will be posted at financial institutions.

Download a currency converter so you’ll be wise about your spending. Don’t engage with anyone who attempts to change money for you on the street.

1 0 . in to e in nd en o in t e tri o r ri r res onsi i it tr e ent to t e rest of t e det i s to et er for o Travel agents don’t charge for most of their services and will be able to source deals you won’t be likely to find on your own. And, any travel agent worth their hand sanitizer will advise you to purchase travel insurance.

en o rri e e en if o r o t is terin for i on t e to o r hotel in Florence, eat a small, lig ht snack.

If you can check in, take a shower and set the clock for a two- hour nap only.

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 tips and others, contact Tori at tori@roxtravel.com or 928-254-9968.

PRO TIP: A heavy meal will make it harder to wake up. Treat yourself to a good dinner, and go to bed at what your normal time would be if you were home. Well, at least the first night.

9 .

f o re in i it if it s s fe Happy surprises that you would never find riding in a cab will be the stuff of stories when you get home. And, don’t make assumptions about people. Smile, ask questions, say hello and thank you.

Expect to make friends and you will usually be successful.

ori t er f

orite

inter destin tion

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Special Section:

WHY CACTI? FISHHOOK BARREL CACTUS Popular, Blooming Cacti and Succulents • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Saguaro Desert Christmas Cactus Queen of the Night Organ Pipe Compass Barrel Coville’s Barrel Fishhook Barrel Cactus Coast Barrel Cactus Turk’s-head Barrel Cactus Senita Pencil Cholla Chain Fruit Cholla Pencil Cholla Cane Cholla Cardón Toothpick Cactus Peruvian Apple Coryphantha macromeris Beehive Cactus Cob Cactus Thelocactus bicolor Easter Lilies Red Torch Torch Cactus Woolly-headed Barrel Cactus Golden Barrel Graham’s Fishhook Cactus Common Fishhook Cactus Midnight Lady Boojum Tree Elephant Tree Sotol Karoo Roses Red Yucca Giant Hesperaloe

Hearty, beautiful and eco-friendly, these desert beauties thrive in Arizona gardens

by Robin Layton

S

o, you’ve decided to plant a cacti garden in that bare patch in your yard. With thousands of varieties of cacti, where do you start?

According to Joyce at Casa Grande’s Distinctive Earthscapes at the Avocado Nursery, a cacti gardener must first find out the lowest temperatures that hit their area. For Casa Grande, that’s

TOTEM POLE

usually in the 50s.

Next, you need to find out from a nursery, or do some online research, on what the cold limits are of the various available cacti.

Now, you are ready to visit a nursery to pick out the plants that appeal to you. Don’t forget, these hardy plants can live up to 200 years, so they are definitely a long-term commitment.

Joyce shared that the Argentine Giant, “the showy, blooming-all-overtown” cactus is a customer favorite.

The Giant can grow two feet tall and three feet wide and boasts white fragrant flowers that can grow up to eight inches in diameter. It needs full sun and has low water requirements.

Casa Grande area residents also ask for the more traditional Saguaro and prickly pear.

• Prickly pear can grow in extreme heat and vary from one foot high to 18-foot giants. The flesh of the

Where to See Them If you’d like to learn more about cacti before you start a garden, here are some places to visit: • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 North Kinney Road, Tucson. desertmuseum.org.

• Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. dbg.org • Carefree Desert Gardens, Tom Darlington Road, Carefree. carefree.org

Provided by Desert Botanical Garden.

For full list, visit dbg.com.

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Tips from a Master Gardener

by Sue Hakala, Master Gardener for 20 years, a grower of cactus and succulents for 45 years and a freelancer writer 1. Know your micro environments in your yard: where is it coldest/hottest so you can plant appropriately.

2. Know where your plant has evolved.

Different deserts of the world get their rain at different times of the year.

If you water at the wrong time, your plant can die pretty quickly.

3. When planting in blazing afternoon sun, use Sonoran Desert plants for success.

4. Growing in the Sonoran Desert is like growing plants nowhere else.

PRICKLY PEAR

•

pear can be used to made jelly, jam, cactus candy, soup and more.

S ag uaro are the most recognizable cacti – think Wile E. Coyote chasing that pesky roadrunner through the desert. It’s a very slow-growing cactus, but over its 150- to 200-year lifespan, it can reach up to 60 feet.

“Our winter residents have a love/ hate relationship with the desert plants.

On one hand, they are beautiful when they bloom, but on the other hand, they are prickly,” shared Joyce.

One plant that appeals to non-prickly lovers is the Totem Pole. It’s a unique variety that sports a smooth skin. It resembles a cactus fresh from a shave.

The Totem Pole can also be an easy plant to grow for new gardeners, as long as it’s not overwatered. It can top out at 12 feet.

Once you’ve found that perfect cacti group for your garden, don’t forget to purchase thick gloves before you handle your new tenants.

Not Just Dirt

If you dig in the dirt in Arizona, you’ve most likely run into caliche.

Literally. This natural cement holds together gravel, sand, clay and silt.

Generally, unless you have extremely hard caliche, you can plant your cacti in that dirt. If it is hard caliche, there is well-draining soil available at nurseries just for cacti.

Most experts do not recommend mulching your cacti. If you want a decorative garden, try crushed stone.

Sun and Water

When you purchase your plant from a nursery, ask the salesperson to mark the side of the container to show you the proper planting orientation. Your plant didn’t start its life in the harsh outside sunlight, so you will need to give it some help to acclimate, not just drop it in the middle of a shadeless garden. If you don’t know the orientation, make sure to cover your plant with a shade cloth if the skin suddenly appears yellow.

Before planting, make sure your yard plot has sufficient drainage. Standing water will rot your cactus. One of the best rules of watering a cactus is to only water when the soil is just starting to dry out. Soak the soil thoroughly, deep down to the roots. Plant your cactus uphill, if possible, from other more-thirsty plants so it does not get more water from the run-off.

EARLY SUMMER 2018 • THE SUMMER FUN EDITION

No matter how great a gardener you might have been in some other part of the country, it’s different here. Ask for help before you buy and plant.

5. Learn to water slowly and deep and not often for cactus – say once a month for 40 minutes in the summer, if you don’t get rain. This is to help the roots grow deep away from the hot upper regions of the soil.

6. Most importantly: plant the right plant in the right place and everyone will be happy.

Did You Know?

Even cacti benefit from shade and can suffer sunburn.

• If your plant was greenhouse-grown, consult a nursery expert on ways to adapt it to garden living.

• Watch for yellowed skin, which is a sign that your plant may have too much sun exposure.

• One aid for a sunburned cactus is using a shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.

SAGUARO GOLDEN CORRID OR LI V ING

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Special Section: Home & Garden

SUMMER BRINGS WARMER TEMPERATURES AND INCREASED DANGER Remember these tips to keep yourself and your family safe this year

by Robin Layton

T

hat cool blue pool or lake water looks so inviting when the sun is being relentless. It can be easy to forget, especially to a child, that any body of water can be a dangerous place.

According to the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona, child drownings are a top cause of preventable death for Arizona’s children.

Most drownings involve children between ages 2 and 5 and occur in a backyard pool.

Education, barriers and vests are three ways to help prevent these accidents.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services: • Every child is different, so enroll children in swimming lessons when you feel they are ready. Teach children how to tread water, float and stay by the shore or in the yard.

• Make sure kids swim only in areas designated for swimming. Teach children that

swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool. They need to be aware of uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather.

• Whether you’re swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake, teach children to swim with an adult. Older, more experienced swimmers should still swim with a partner every time. From the first time your kids swim, teach children to never go near or in water without an adult present.

Other Pool Safety Tips

• Do not allow children to play in or around the pool area.

• Mount life saving devices near the pool.

• Keep tables, chairs and ladders away from pool fences.

• Check placement of doggie doors for direct access to pool area.

• Post your local emergency number on the phone. Think about installing a phone near the pool area.

• If you find a child in any source of water: • Yell for help and pull the child out of the water.

• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency

number immediately!

• Begin CPR if you are trained.

• If you are not trained to administer CPR, follow the instructions from the 9-1-1 operator until help arrives.

Pool Gates

There are regulations on the height and type of gate and fence that applies to new pool construction. Consult with your contractor or visit azleg.gov.

Other Summer Hazards

Drowning or water accidents aren’t the only things to consider when taking in the beauty of an Arizona summer.

• Sunburn – Use sunblock and wear a hat.

• Dehydration – Be mindful of how long you are exposed to the sun, and carry water with you.

• Food poisoning – Picnics are great, but remember to put away food after serving, keeping it chilled to prevent spoilage.

• Fire safety – Be mindful of the fire bans when you are camping or grilling. One spark from your firepit or grill can start a massive wildfire in dry conditions.

Learn CPR Near You Red Cross, redcross.org, 1-800-RED-CROSS eri n e rt sso i tion heart.org, 1-800-242-8721 Casa Grande Fire D epartment, 520-421-8777, fire@casagrandeaz.gov

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Special Section: Home & Garden

TOP 5

REASONS TO HAVE YOUR A/C UNITS SERVICED - SOONER RATHER THAN LATER

Always make sure to work with a licensed HVAC contractor

by Katie Mayer

I

t’s heating up outside, but that doesn’t mean we need to heat up too much inside.

Hiring a licensed HVAC contractor to conduct yearly or twice-yearly inspections and service on your air conditioning equipment is important. Here are the top-5 reasons:

1) Y

ou could save money.

Units that are running low on refrigerant can quickly hike up your utility bills. Signs your unit needs to be recharged include taking a long time to cool your

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2)

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repair potential problems before they leave you sweating for days.

3)

o n re ent ro e s fro tin Just like with your car, unaddressed problems with your HVAC unit can cause a domino effect where other components of your unit become stressed and damaged. By proactively addressing problems, you can extend the life of your unit and its components.

4)

o n re t e e sier Dirty coils, vents, ducting and air filters are not only bad for your system, they are bad for you and your family, as well. Have your system inspected and cleaned at least once per year.

5) Y

ou’ ll help the environment.

By maintaining your unit, you can ensure it is running as efficiently as it is capable of running, which means saving energy and helping our environment. For even greater savings, experts say to keep your thermostat set between 78 and 80 degrees when you are home and up to 85 degrees when you are away. According to local utility Salt River Project (SRP), for every degree you set your thermostat above 80 degrees, you can save 2-3 percent on cooling costs.

• Leave most of your air vents open to avoid a pressure imbalance and reduce the effectiveness of your system.

• Do chores that produce moisture, such as washing clothes and dishes or mopping floors, when it is cooler out.

• Prevent heat from entering your home by shading windows with coverings that have lower shade coefficient, paint exterior walls a lighter color, maintain minimum insulation levels, avoid activities that can create additional heat in your home, weatherize your home and make sure your attic is properly vented and exhaust vents are not blocked.

• Install a programmable thermostat.

• Schedule maintenance service.

• Buy a higher SEER unit and ensure it is the correct size.

• Set ceiling fans to blow downward.

• Replace air filters.

For Evaporative Coolers: • Change the pads before each summer.

• Do not run your evaporative cooler and air conditioning at the same time.

• Install the baffle plate (cookie sheet damper) in the unit before you switch over to air conditioning.

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Horizon Land Project

en Rd KortsCasa Grande Crossing

Desert Carmel

Clayton Rd

Gila Bend Hwy

Cornman Rd

Cardon/Cowley

Sierra Ranch

McCartney Center

The Greens Santa at Casa Cruz Grande Village Subject Elaine Tierra de Golf Farms Casa Grande

Chuichu Rd

Big Trall

Carranza Rd

Casa Grande

Woodruff Rd

Airport

Thornton Rd

Traviano

Promenade Mesquite Mall at Tree Ranch

Val Val Vista Rd Vista Views

Villago

McCartney Ranch

Dr

CAZCP Phase II

Trekell Rd

Thornton Rd

Ethington Rd

Peters Rd

287 C A

Palm Creek RV Park

Legends Tuscany of Casa Grande

Chuicha Rd

Thude PAD

Casa Grande Commons

i ck

Daley Farms

Acacia Landing

Asarco

Ethington Rd

Casa Grande

Peart Rd

Westfield Barnes Rd Park

C A

10

Bianco Rd

Solana Ranch The North Cottonwoods

Gila R In Commu

Casa Grande Municipal

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Vista Land LP

Tamaron 238

Cottonwood Ranch

Miller Rd Cottonwood LnStanfield Estates

Grande G Diamond Valley Ranch

Southern Trails

Candle st

Sky Ranch

CAZCP

Morado Hills

State Trust

387 C A Gila Buttes

Mission Valley West

Indian Valley Rd

238 C A

Elaine Farms

Golf Casa Grande

Santa Rosa Ranches Desert

Talla Corrales Rd

Midway Rd

Montgomery Rd

84 C A

Bianco Rd

Desert Carmel

Casa Cali

Ranch Tierra de

Kortsen Rd

Randolph Rd Val Vista Blvd

The Greens at Casa Santa Cruz Grande Santa Cruz Village

Mesquite Tree Ranch

Legends

Mission Ranch at Casa Grande

McCartney Ranch

Montgomery Rd

Rodeo Rd

Coyote Ranch

Copper Mountain Las Ranch Palmas

Tamaron

Acacia Landing

Casa Gran Commo

Promena Mall Casa Gran

Casa Grand Crossing Sierra Sonoran Ranch Heights Mis Ro

Peart Rd

Trading Post Rd

Ak-Chin Indian Reservation

Asarco

Casa Vista Palm Court

Casa Grande Mountain Ranch