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Rancho Sahuarita Events
FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS
Food Truck Roundup Tuesday, December 3rd | 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Coffee Social Friday, December 6th & 20th | 8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Restorative Workshop Saturday, December 7th 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Healthy Living Series Saturday, December 21st | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Yin-ter Solstice Yoga Saturday, December 21st | 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Pet Picture with Santa Saturday, December 21st | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Light & Latkes Hanukkah Celebration Sunday, December 29th | 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
KID FRIENDLY EVENTS
Children’s Holiday Express Saturday, December 7th
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Storytime for Tots (Ages 3+)
Thursday, December 12th
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Cocoa & Cookies Friday, December 13th | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Movin’ & Groovin’ (Ages 3+)
Thursday, December 19th | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Toddler Techniques (Ages 3 - 6)
Thursday, December 26th | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS
Polar Express & Visit with Santa Sunday, December 15th | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
ADULT ONLY EVENTS
Monday Night Football (Ages 21+)
Monday, December 9th & 23rd 30-minutes prior to Kick-Off
Bingo (Ages 18+)
Tuesday, December 10th | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Zen Friday (Ages 25+)
Friday, December 13th & 27th
8:30 - 10:00 p.m.
Books & Wine (Ages 21+)
Monday, December 16th | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Women & Wine (Ages 21+)
Wednesday, December 18th | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
SAGUARO CLUB EVENTS
Holiday Party
Thursday, December 19th | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Rancho Sahuarita Holiday Spectacular & Toy Drive
Saturday, December 14th
11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
You Talk, We Listen (YTWL) Tuesday, December 17th | 6:00 p.m.
preferences. Here's a look at three movies to anticipate this month:
THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM
Release Date: December 13, 2024
This animated feature delves into the untold story behind Helm’s Deep, the fortress central to "The Two Towers." It explores the history and battles that shaped this iconic stronghold.
Movie Insider
MUFASA: THE LION KING
Release Date: December 20, 2024
A prequel to the beloved "The Lion King," this film chronicles Mufasa's rise from an orphaned cub to the revered king of the Pride Lands, offering deeper insights into his character and legacy.
Movie Insider
THE HEDGEHOG 3
Release Date: December 20, 2024)
The third installment in the popular franchise continues the adventures of Sonic, promising new challenges and characters that will delight fans of all ages.
Insider
The History of the Candy Cane
The candy cane, a beloved symbol of Christmas, has a rich and somewhat mysterious history that spans several centuries. Its origins are believed to date back to the 17th century in Europe, where hard candy sticks were common treats. According to popular lore, the first candy canes were created in 1670 by a choirmaster at Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Seeking a way to keep children quiet during long nativity services, he ordered candy sticks and had them bent into the shape of a shepherd’s crook, symbolizing the shepherds who visited the baby Jesus.
Candy canes gained popularity across Europe, particularly in Germany, where Christmas traditions were deeply rooted in Christian symbolism. By the 19th century, they began appearing on Christmas trees as decorations. The white color of the candy cane was said to represent purity, while its bent shape evoked images of a shepherd's staff or the letter "J" for Jesus. These early candy canes were simple and unadorned, lacking the distinctive red stripes we associate with them today.
The introduction of the red stripe is a significant turning point in candy cane history, though its exact origins remain unclear. Some believe it appeared in the late
19th century as candy makers sought to create more visually appealing designs. The red-andwhite combination quickly became associated
n Candy Cane, see page 12
Movie
Are your protection plans in place?
HAVE you ever thought about how much you have to protect? Between your family, your finances, your independence and your legacy, it can be quite a lot — and that’s why it's important to have the right protection plan in place.
Let’s look at these areas of need and some possible protection solutions:
• Protecting your income – An injury or severe illness could prevent you from working for some time. And if that happened, your family’s finances could become strained. To help guard against this possibility, you may want to consider disability income insurance. Your employer may offer some type of coverage, but it’s likely to be short term and may not be enough to help close the income gap you might face, so you may want to consider purchasing your own policy.
• Protecting your family – If you were no longer around, how would your family’s lifestyle be affected? Could they stay in the same house? Could your children afford college or another type of post-secondary education? If you have adequate life insurance, the answer to these questions can be “yes.” Again, you might get some coverage from your employer, but it may be insufficient, so you may want to explore additional protection through a personal policy. In determining how much coverage you’ll need, you’ll want to weigh several factors: size of mortgage and other debts, number of children, spouse’s income and needs, and the legacy you’d like to leave.
• Protecting your goals – You may have some important financial goals, such as sending your children to college and achieving a comfortable
retirement. To protect these goals, you’ll need strategies to help prepare for them, which could include investing in an education savings plan and contributing regularly to your IRA and 401(k) or other retirement plans.
• Protecting your financial independence –Hopefully, you will be able to remain financially independent your entire life. But this independence could be threatened by the need for some type of longterm care. Consider this: A private room in a nursing home costs, on average, more than $116,000 a year, while the services of a home health aide are more than $75,000 a year, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Medicare generally does not cover these costs or types of needs and would typically only pay for a short period. You might be left with significant bills or creditors and possibly dependent on family or loved ones. To help protect yourself from these threats, you may want to consult with a financial professional, who can offer long-term care solutions.
• Protecting your legacy – When you work hard your whole life, you may want to leave something behind to your loved ones. A comprehensive estate plan can help ensure your family — and the charitable groups you support — will receive the resources you’d like them to have. An estate plan can be somewhat complex, involving various documents and arrangements, including a will, living trust and
various powers of attorney, so you’ll need to work with a qualified legal advisor, and possibly your financial professional.
As we’ve seen, “protection” can take many forms. So, try to follow all the protection strategies you need to enjoy the life you’ve envisioned for yourself and your family.
Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center Celebrates Growth and Expansion
THE Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center (SFBCRC) has rapidly evolved since its modest beginnings in 2009. Now occupying a 14,300 square foot campus, the organization has grown to support over 1,700 families monthly. The center now offers a comprehensive approach to community support by addressing food insecurity, health and nutrition, family support and workforce development.
The center's impressive growth and expansion is largely attributed to the dedication of volunteers and community partners who share their mission.
"The donated food and resources we receive allows us to fulfill our commitment to provide nutritious foods to every client who visits us. Our programs are designed to empower them
to make their own choices while maintaining their dignity,” shared Executive Director, Carlos Valles.
The SFB-CRC now also provides accredited IT and welding certificates through the Saguaro Skills Center and hosts classes like Baby Yoga, Zumbini and Keeping Your Cool.
Recognizing accessibility and transportation barriers for many individuals, the organization also launched Project Arizona Uniting Lives (AZUL). This initiative brings essential services like ESL classes, GED tutoring and computer basics training to underserved communities in Southern Arizona.
The organization emphasizes on their dedication to the community's well-being and prosperity.
"In 2023 alone, our efforts have helped 22 individuals earn a sustainable income and no longer rely on emergency food services."
The SFB-CRC is actively seeking donations, both in food and finance. More volunteers are also needed to help the organization expand its services and impact.
"We urge all members of the community to join us in our mission to alleviate hunger and support the underprivileged. Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors in need."
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit sahuaritafoodbank.org/ volunteer or call (520) 777-7675. Donations can be dropped off at their location at 17750 S. La Cañada Dr., Sahuarita, AZ 85629.
ARIZONA
Wasson Peak via King Canyon Trail
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Elevation Gain: ~1,800 feet
• Type of Hike: Loop or Out-and-back
• Distance: ~7.9 miles round trip (loop option shorter)
This hike takes you to the highest peak in the Tucson Mountains with breathtaking views of Saguaro National Park and the surrounding desert. The trail features historic mining remnants, towering saguaros, and expansive vistas. The path is not smooth, it is mostly small rocks, but well worth the climb. It is peaceful, and gorgeous out there. You will see a couple of old mining
DECEMBER 2024
Here are some highlighted celestial events and objects to observe in the night sky during November 2024:
• December 1 - New Moon. The Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This phase occurs at 06:22 UTC. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.
• December 7 - Jupiter at Opposition. The giant planet will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. This is the best time to view and photograph Jupiter and its moons. A medium-sized telescope should be able to show you some of the details in Jupiter's cloud bands. A good pair of binoculars should allow you to see Jupiter's four largest moons, appearing as bright dots on either side of the planet.
• December 13, 14 - Geminids Meteor Shower. The Geminids are the king of the meteor showers. It is considered by many to be the best shower in the heavens, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, which was discovered in 1982. The shower runs annually from December 7-17. It peaks this year on the night of the 13th and morning of the 14th. The nearly full moon will block out all but the brightest meteors this year. But if you are patient, you may still be able to catch a few good ones. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Gemini, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
tunnels. You can not explore them, they are barbed off, and are now homes to bats. Because of the elevation climb, there are plenty of places to pull off to the side and take a breather. Once to the top, you will feel like you are on top of the world. Eat a small snack or lunch and enjoy the view. Don’t forget water and a camera.
Directions:
1. From Tucson, drive west on Speedway Boulevard (which becomes Gates Pass Road).
2. Turn north on Kinney Road and park at the King Canyon Trailhead near the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
3. Follow the King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak.
• December 15 - Full Moon. The Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face will be fully illuminated. This phase occurs at 09:03 UTC. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Cold Moon because
this is the time of year when the cold winter air settles in and the nights become long and dark. This moon has also been known as the Long Nights Moon and the Moon Before Yule.
• December 21 - December Solstice. The December solstice occurs at 09:17 UTC. The South Pole of the earth will be tilted toward the Sun, which will have reached its southernmost position in the sky and will be directly over the Tropic of Capricorn at 23.44 degrees south latitude. This is the first day of winter (winter solstice) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of summer (summer solstice) in the Southern Hemisphere.
• December 21, 22 - Ursids Meteor Shower. The Ursids is a minor meteor shower producing about 5-10 meteors per hour. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Tuttle, which was first discovered in 1790. The shower runs annually from December 17-25. It peaks this year on the night of the 21st and morning of the 22nd. The waning gibbous moon will block out many of the fainter meteors this year. If you are patient, you should still be able to catch some of the brighter ones. Best viewing will be just after midnight from a dark location far away from city lights. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Ursa Minor, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
• December 25 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation. The planet Mercury reaches greatest western elongation of 22 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Mercury since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky. Look for the planet low in the eastern sky just before sunrise.
• December 30 - New Moon. The Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This phase occurs at 22:28 UTC. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.
Residents Come Together to Celebrate Community
ON Saturday, November 16th, residents of Rancho Sahuarita gathered to celebrate the founding of Rancho Sahuarita at the community’s 5th annual Founders Day event.
Despite the chilly weather, a few hundred residents enjoyed various types of familyfriendly entertainment and activities, including a performance by the live band “Solitify,” a Comic Mobil, bungee jump area, petting zoo, inflatables and more. A vendor area offered the chance to mingle with and support businesses including “Jolie Bijou Designs,” “Leanne’s 3D Printing and Crafts”, “Jewelry Unearthed”, “Avon” and others. Those in attendance were also able to enjoy complimentary popcorn and cotton candy, some onsite food vendors, giveaways as part of Rancho Sahuarita’s annual “Resident Appreciation” effort, and prize raffles.
Abrie Bustamante, Clubhouse Director for Rancho Sahuarita commented: “Our Founders’ Day event provides us the unique opportunity each year to celebrate the efforts of our first founding residents and founder Bob Sharpe, for everything that they did to bring the community to life. Events like this bring residents together – both family and friends– reinspiring them to continue creating a community and a ‘better life’ for each other.”
cocktail
CRANBERRY ORANGE
HOLIDAY PUNCH
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup cranberry juice
1 cup orange juice
½ cup sparkling water or prosecco (for adults)
¼ cup pomegranate seeds
Orange slices (for garnish)
1 cup honey
What’s Cooking in the Kitchen? beef
Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine cranberry juice, orange juice, and sparkling water (or prosecco) in a large pitcher.
2. Add ice cubes, pomegranate seeds, and orange slices.
3. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of rosemary in each glass before serving.
swiss
GINGERBREAD (BASLER LÄCKERLI)
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp cloves
Zest of 1 lemon
⅔ cup chopped almonds
⅓ cup candied orange and lemon peel, finely chopped
⅓ cup Kirsch (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Heat honey and sugar in a pan until melted and combined. Let cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, lemon zest, almonds, and candied peel. Stir in the honey mixture (and Kirsch if using) to form a dough.
4. Roll dough out onto the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Cut into rectangles while warm. Let cool and enjoy.
WELLINGTON WITH RED WINE SAUCE
Ingredients:
For the Beef Wellington:
2.2 lbs) beef tenderloin, trimmed
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
9 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
3.5 oz prosciutto slices
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 lb puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Red Wine Sauce:
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef stock
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tsp flour
Instructions:
Prepare the Beef Wellington:
1. Preheat the oven to (400°F). Season beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Set aside to cool.
3. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté mushrooms, shallot, garlic, and thyme until moisture evaporates. Season to taste and let cool.
4. Lay out a layer of prosciutto on plastic wrap, slightly overlapping slices. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the prosciutto.
5. Brush the beef with Dijon mustard and place it on top of the mushroom-covered prosciutto. Use the plastic wrap to tightly roll the prosciutto around the beef. Chill for 15 minutes.
6. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface. Remove the plastic wrap from the beef and place it on the pastry. Wrap tightly, sealing the edges with the beaten egg.
7. Place the Wellington seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the beef is cooked to your desired doneness. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Prepare the Red Wine Sauce:
1. Sauté shallots in butter until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add red wine and beef stock. Simmer until reduced by half.
3. Strain the sauce and serve warm alongside the Wellington.
This elegant dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a festive December feast!
DIY Winter Facial Recipe: Hydrating Honey& Oatmeal Mask
This gentle and nourishing facial mask is perfect for combating dry, winter skin. It hydrates, soothes, and restores your skin’s natural glow.
Why This Works for Winter Skin
The combination of oatmeal, honey, yogurt, and oils addresses the key challenges of winter skin: dryness, irritation, and dullness. This mask hydrates deeply, soothes redness, and promotes healthy skin regeneration. Use it once or twice a week for the best results!
Ingredients and Benefits:
1. Oatmeal (2 tablespoons)
• Why: Oatmeal is a natural anti-inflammatory and soothes irritated skin. It contains saponins, which gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of moisture.
• Winter Benefit: Helps reduce dryness and flakiness caused by cold weather.
2. Honey (1 tablespoon)
• Why: Honey is a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. It’s also antibacterial, helping to keep winter breakouts at bay.
• Winter Benefit: Deeply hydrates dry skin while promoting healing.
3. Plain Yogurt (1 tablespoon)
• Why: Yogurt contains lactic acid, a natural exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and promotes smooth, soft skin. Its probiotics help balance the skin's microbiome.
• Winter Benefit: Gently exfoliates without causing irritation, leaving skin refreshed.
4. Sweet Almond Oil (1 teaspoon)
• Why: Almond oil is rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids, which protect and nourish the skin barrier.
• Winter Benefit: Helps lock in moisture and prevent winter dryness.
5. Aloe Vera Gel (1 teaspoon)
• Why: Aloe vera is deeply hydrating and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Winter Benefit: Soothes redness and irritation caused by cold winds or heating indoors.
6. Optional: A few drops of Lavender Essential Oil
• Why: Calms the skin and provides a relaxing
aromatherapy experience.
• Winter Benefit: Helps reduce stress-related skin issues, which can be more prevalent in winter.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oatmeal: Grind the oatmeal into a fine powder using a blender or food processor for a smoother texture.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ground oatmeal, honey, yogurt, almond oil, aloe vera gel, and lavender essential oil (if using). Stir until you get a smooth paste.
3. Apply the Mask: On a clean, damp face, apply the mask evenly, avoiding the eye area.
4. Relax: Let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you relax.
5. Rinse: Gently remove the mask with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a soft towel.
6. Moisturize: Follow with your favorite moisturizer to seal in the hydration.
with the Christmas season. Around this time, peppermint flavoring, known for its refreshing and festive taste, was also added, solidifying the candy cane's iconic status.
In the United States, the candy cane’s popularity soared in the early 20th century, thanks to advancements in candy-making technology. Before this, candy canes were labor-intensive to produce, as each one had to be shaped and bent by hand. In 1921, an Indiana-based confectioner named Bob McCormack began mass-producing candy canes, making them
more accessible and affordable. McCormack's brother-in-law, a Catholic priest, is credited with inventing a machine to automate the shaping process, revolutionizing the industry.
Today, candy canes are more than just a sweet treat; they are deeply ingrained in Christmas culture. They are used as decorations, featured in holiday recipes, and even employed in crafts. Despite their secular commercialization, many still view candy canes as symbols of faith and tradition. For some, the white symbolizes the purity of Christ, the red represents
His sacrifice, and the peppermint flavor is reminiscent of hyssop, an herb mentioned in the Bible.
The candy cane has transcended its humble beginnings to become a global emblem of Christmas cheer. Whether hung on a tree, given as a gift, or enjoyed as a snack, it continues to bring joy to millions during the holiday season. Its journey from a practical solution for fidgety children in a German cathedral to a massproduced festive icon reflects the blending of tradition, innovation, and holiday spirit.
Sahuarita Times
Candy Cane
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HOUSE CLEANING POSITION AVAILABLE VAIL, Sahuarita and Rita ranch area. As Clean As A Whistle
• Full and part time positions available
• Must have vehicle to drive between jobsite
• Must speak English
• Must be able to pass background check
• Must be able to bend, squat and lift 25-30lbs
• Hours of operation M-F. Occasional Saturdays
• Call Robin 520.909.0065
THE BIKE DOC. 50 years experience. Veteran owned. Mobile. Formerly certified U.S. Cycling Federation. FREE Estimates! 520-982-4703 God Bless America.
BECK'S HANDY WORKS. 20 years experience. All phases remodeling and new construction. Electrician by trade. Reasonable rates. Reliable and Excellent references. FREE estimates. All work guaranteed, 520-449-9587
PATRIOT LAWN SERVICES offers reasonable weekly or monthly rates for lawn cleaning (and removal) of weeds, & trimming of trees/shrubs. 520-982-1658
ADVERTISE HERE
If you want to get the word out about your business, give us a call and purchase an ad starting as low as $50 a month. We have great rates and special incentives on all ad sizes and we’ll even help you with the ad design. If you’re interested, give us a call today at (520) 325-3763.
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