Sahuarita Times MAY 2026

VOL. 63 • NO.5. MAY 2026 • SERVING ALL OF SAHUARITA & SOUTHERN ARIZONA

BUILDING HEALTH AND WEALTH PG 6 RANCHO SAHUARITA'S FIRST LAKESIDE RUN BRINGS THE REGION’S RESIDENTS TOGETHER FOR WELLNESS, PG 7 COMMUNITY, AND THE CHANCE TO GIVE BACK SPRING HIKING: ARIZONA TRAIL PG 9

Sahuarita Times 10645 N. Oracle Road, Suite 121-312 Oro Valley, AZ 85737 (520) 325-3763

Shop and Support Local in Rancho Sahuarita

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The Rancho Sahuarita Marketplace & Village is the primary retail center in Rancho Sahuarita. It includes all the conveniences you expect, including:

Grocery

Banking

Restaurants

Services

Check out the great businesses that are all in your backyard!

Casual Nails

Lotus Bistro

Toothtown Dentistry

Chase Bank

MindForge Play Studio

For Kids

CopperMine Dental Studio

New Day Cleaners

Valley Animal Hospital

Dunkin Donuts & Baskin

Pima Heart and Vasular

Vitality Spine & Sports

Robbins

Pub 1922

Physical Therapy

Fry’s Marketplace

State Farm Insurance

Wags & Whiskers Pet

Great Clips

Subway

Salon

Jungle Fruit Raspados

Tania’s Mexican Food

Across the street from the Marketplace are businesses at The Corner at Rancho Sahuarita Arby’s

Banner - University

Panda Express

Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial

Medicine Multispecialty

Sahuarita Premier

Surgeons

Services Clinic

Dentistry

APEX Network Physical

Dr. Jaw Orthodontists

The Cut Barber Studio

Therapy

Fry’s Gas Station

RanchoSahuarita.com 15990 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd.

Sahuarita, Arizona

Features

Local ANNOUNCEMENTS

MA Y 2026

HOT MOVIES COMING YOUR WAY ....................4 RANCHO SAHUARITA'S FIRST LAKESIDE RUN BRINGS THE REGION’S RESIDENTS TOGETHER FOR WELLNESS, COMMUNITY, AND THE CHANCE TO GIVE BACK...................................................7 HIKE ARIZONA & NIGHT SKY ............................9 WHAT’S COOKING IN THE KITCHEN? ...............11 HEALTH AND BEAUTY ....................................12 CLASSIFIEDS .................................................13 PUZZLES & GAMES .......................................15

Rancho Sahuarita Events RESIDENT EVENTS:

Sahuarita Times

FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS

KID FRIENDLY EVENTS

Coffee Social Friday, May 1st & 15th | 8:00 - 9:30 a.m.

Mermaids With Mom (Ages 5+) Saturday, May 9th | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Movies Under the Stars Saturday, May 2nd | 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Storytime for Tots (Ages 3+) Thursday, May 14th | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Food Truck Roundup Tuesday, May 5th | 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.

ADULT ONLY EVENTS

Mother’s Day Giveaway Sunday, May 10th | 8:00 a.m.

At Club Rancho Sahuarita, while supplies last

VOL. 63 • NO. 02 MAY 2026

Family Fitness Night Friday, May 15th | 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

520.325.3763

Outdoor Movie Night Saturday, May 16th | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

10645 N. Oracle Rd. Ste. 121-312 Oro Valley, AZ 85737 email: news@TheSahuaritaTimes.com

Fitness Fiesta (Ages 21+) Friday, May 1st | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Zen Friday (Ages 25+) Friday, May 1st & 15th | 8:30 - 10:00 p.m.

Mujeres y Margaritas (Ages 21+) Tuesday, May 5th | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Moms & Mimosas (Ages 21+) Saturday, May 9th | 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Memorial Weekend Celebrations Saturday, May 23rd | 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 24th | 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Bingo (Ages 18+) Tuesday, May 12th | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Memorial Weekend Movies Under the Stars Sunday, May 24th | 8:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Books & Brunch (Ages 21+) Monday, May 18th | 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Sunrise Remembrance Armed Forces Tribute at Parque Del Rio Monday, May 25th | 7:00 - 8:30 a.m.

COMMUNITY EVENTS American Red Cross Blood Drive Saturday, May 2nd | 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

25th Anniversary Giveaway Monday, May 25th | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

At Club Rancho Sahuarita, while supplies last

Town of Sahuarita: Sunset Market Sahuarita Lake Park Friday, May 8th | 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

DESIGN & LAYOUT

SAGUARO CLUB EVENTS

Jon Kruzac

Comedy Night Rancho Resort Ballroom Thursday, May 14th | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Neighbor to Neighbor Sahuarita: Drop Off Saturday, May 16th | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

PUBLISHER

Georgia R. Lacy EDITOR

Theo Serrano SALES & MARKETING

Theo Serrano

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristi Schaub

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS Prom Night Friday, May 16th | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

MAY 2026

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May 2026 Movie Releases THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

ANIMAL FARM

MORTAL KOMBAT II

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Release Date: May 22, 2026

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Release Date: May 8, 2026

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Release Date: May 1, 2026

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Director: Jon Favreau

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Director: Simon McQuoid

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Director: Andy Serkis

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Rating: PG-13 (Expected)

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Rating: R

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Rating: PG (Expected)

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Who is in the film: Pedro Pascal, Steve Blum

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Who is in the film: Karl Urban, Hiroyuki Sanada, Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee

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Who is in the film: Andy Serkis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Molly Wright

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The Plot: After the events of the hit series, Din Djarin and his apprentice Grogu take their adventures to the big screen. The duo must navigate a dangerous galaxy in the wake of the Empire's fall, facing new remnants of Imperial power while strengthening their bond as a clan of two.

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The Plot: Continuing the high-stakes tournament, the fighters of Earthrealm must venture into Outworld to defend their home. The sequel introduces the fan-favorite character Johnny Cage as the team faces off against a new wave of supernatural adversaries in a battle for the fate of the universe.

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The Plot: A modern, performancecapture reimagining of George Orwell’s classic fable. A group of farm animals rebels against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where animals can be equal, free, and happy. However, the revolution takes a dark turn as a new form of tyranny emerges from within their own ranks.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Thurs 3pm-5pm

Discounted draft beer, draft house wines, cocktails, appetizers, and sushi All 3 Locations

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Sahuarita Times

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The Cut Barber Studio Continues to Lead in Rancho Sahuarita Recently named “Best Barbershop” by the Green Valley News, The Cut Barber Studio continues to stand out as a welcoming, community-focused destination in Rancho Sahuarita. Located at the Corner Plaza of 770 W. Sahuarita Rd., Suite #140 in Sahuarita, the shop offers a full range of grooming services, including classic cuts, modern styles, fades, beard trims, and kids’ haircuts. Known for its friendly neighborhood

Tenant SPOTLIGHT

where clients can relax, enjoy conversation, and leave feeling confident with a clean, professional look.

personalized service. Clients are encouraged to conveniently book appointments through the Booksy app or call (520) 372-7261.

With Mother’s Day, prom, graduation season, and the summer months approaching, now is the perfect time to schedule a fresh cut and look your best for every occasion. Whether preparing for a special event or maintaining a polished everyday style, The Cut Barber Studio is dedicated to consistent quality and

The shop also honors service members and first responders with a Wednesday walk-in special of $25, reinforcing its strong commitment to the local community and

Business Hours: Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Sunday by appointment only

atmosphere, the studio provides a space

Enroll in Trico’s thermostat program and save!

Members who sign up for our Thermostat Energy Management Program (TEMP) will receive a one-time $50 incentive, plus a $15 bill credit each month of the rate period.

To learn more, see eligible thermostats, and apply, visit www.trico.coop or scan the QR code:

WHY ENROLL IN TEMP? SIMPLE SECURE REWARDING

(520) 744-2944 | www.trico.coop tricoelectricAZ Trico is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

MAY 2026

5

BUILDING HEALTH & WEALTH

Building Health & Wealth: May 2026 As May arrives in Southern Arizona, the focus shifts from financial awareness to financial action. With the first part of the year behind us, now is an ideal time for Sahuaritaarea residents to evaluate progress and make thoughtful adjustments that support longterm stability and growth.

Local Financial Momentum With tax season concluding, many households have a clearer picture of their financial position. Whether it’s allocating a refund toward savings, reducing debt, or planning upcoming expenses, May offers an opportunity to build momentum. Local resources and financial advisors continue to provide guidance on budgeting, investing, and preparing for the months ahead.

Housing Market Insight The Sahuarita and greater Southern Arizona housing markets remain steady as we move into the summer season. Increased activity typically begins this time of year, with both buyers and sellers entering the market. For buyers, preparation and timing are key, while sellers benefit from continued demand driven by the region’s lifestyle, affordability, and long-term growth outlook.

We Buy RVs

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Sahuarita - Green Valley - Nogales

Free Appraisal go where the road takes you!

No Obligation Professional Valuation

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Sahuarita Times

3735 E Irvington Road (520) 202-0106 freedomrvaz.com

RELEASE

Rancho Sahuarita's First Lakeside Run Brings the Region’s Residents Together for Wellness, Community, and the Chance to Give Back

H

undreds of runners and walkers turned out Sunday, April 26th, 2026 for the inaugural Rancho Sahuarita Lakeside Run 5K and Fun Walk, the proceeds from which will benefit the important work of the team at Diamond Children's Medical Center in Tucson.

sure it's there when families need it, that's the kind of community we want to be."

"A community isn't just the homes, amenities and spaces you build; it's the intentional moments and opportunities to make a difference you create with programs and movements you stand behind," said Jeremy Sharpe, Managing Partner for Rancho Sahuarita. "Diamond Children's takes care of kids across this entire region. If we can do our part to support their work and help make The event, hosted by Rancho Sahuarita, drew participants from across southern Arizona, including Sahuarita, Green Valley, Tucson, Oro Valley, Vail, Rio Rico, and more. All proceeds will go to Diamond Children's Medical Center, which provides specialized care for children and their families.

The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including AAA Landscape, Concord General Contracting, Fidelity Investments, Lennar, The Fred Lewis Foundation for Youth Handball, Territorial Sign Co., GEO Marketing & Advertising, iHeart Media, and Run Tucson. The Running Shop graciously provided gift certificates to top finishers in multiple age groups.

The morning included the 5K, the onemile fun walk and a Family FunZone with activities for residents and visitors of all ages.

Participants of all fitness levels took to the trails throughout the community and around Sahuarita Lake, from first-time walkers to experienced runners.

MAY 2026

7

OF THE MONTH

STARFALL EDUCATION https://www.starfall.com/

Starfall is an incredible resource for families with children ranging from Pre-K through 5th grade. Originally created as a free public service to teach children to read, it has expanded into a full educational suite covering language arts and mathematics.

With the school year winding down, Starfall offers a "low-pressure" way to keep kids' brains active. It uses multisensory interactive games that allow children to see, hear, and touch as they learn. It is especially helpful for children with different learning styles and is a safe, ad-free environment that prioritizes literacy and positive reinforcement.

Enroll in Trico’s thermostat program and save!

Members who sign up for our Thermostat Energy Management Program (TEMP) will receive a one-time $50 incentive, plus a $15 bill credit each month of the rate period.

To learn more, see eligible thermostats, and apply, visit www.trico.coop or scan the QR code:

WHY ENROLL IN TEMP? SIMPLE SECURE REWARDING

(520) 744-2944 | www.trico.coop tricoelectricAZ Trico is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

8

Sahuarita Times

ARIZONA

HIKING SPOTLIGHT: MADERA CANYON The Experience: Towering trees, flowing seasonal creeks, and abundant wildlife make this a favorite for hikers and birdwatchers alike. Early mornings are ideal,

with comfortable temperatures and active wildlife. Trails range from easy nature walks to more moderate climbs with scenic overlooks.

MAY 2 026 Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower A beautiful early summer meteor shower, the Eta Aquariids peak in early May and are known for fast-moving meteors.

Peak Viewing: May 5–6 before dawn Viewing Tip: Head out in the early morning hours for the best visibility. With Sahuarita’s dark skies, you may catch 20+ meteors per hour under ideal conditions. Look toward the eastern horizon just before sunrise.

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Thurs 3pm-5pm

Discounted draft beer, draft house wines, cocktails, appetizers, and sushi All 3 Locations

MAY 2026

9

RELEASE

Where Creativity Unfolds: MindForge Play Studio Celebrates Its Grand Opening in Sahuarita

A new addition has officially opened its doors in the Rancho Sahuarita Marketplace. On April 10, families and friends gathered to celebrate the grand opening of MindForge Play Studio, a creative space dedicated to offering a hands-on learning environment for Sahuarita families to spend time together – all while channeling their imagination. To celebrate its debut, the studio provided guests with a variety of free activities including a slime-making station, strategy board games, and lots of LEGO-building opportunities.

MindForge Play Studio’s vibrant design cultivates an immersive setting for builders to feel inspired. The studio was created with a simple idea at its core: play doesn’t have to be rushed or overstimulating to be engaging. With a captivating LEGO mural

and handcrafted resin tables to admire, visitors can embrace their creativity as they connect with one another through shared experiences. With an assortment of stations to navigate, the younger guests will be thrilled to explore the toddler area and fascinated by the Wind Tunnel Station in particular. In addition to family programming, MindForge is also a gathering place for adults—offering Ladies Craft Night Out, D&D Adult Guild Nights, strategy board gaming, and creative date night experiences designed for connection, laughter, and time well spent together. As a multi-generational studio, MindForge invites older children, teens, and adults to take on more complex design challenges or mentor younger builders.

Already since opening, visitors have enjoyed its atmosphere full of laughter and curiosity, all as they work on their creations side by side.

The studio emphasizes a more intentional approach to play and is based on three pillars: think, build, and explore. These principles are developed by filling the room with building tools for marble track runs and a collaborative LEGO structure where guests can contribute with each visit. Through this structure, MindForge creates a communitywide connection that is not limited to families alone, but between neighbors and friends.

Owner Cherise Gunter envisioned MindForge as a welcoming environment that focuses on slow, thoughtful creations that prioritize the design process more than the product. To transform this vision into a reality, builders have the opportunity to pause their creation and store it at the studio until their next visit. With these features, MindForge eliminates the rush of finishing a project and instead contributes

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Sahuarita Times

to a relaxed, lighthearted play space. “In a world that moves so fast, I wanted to create a space right here in our community where anyone who walks through our doors can pause, laugh, connect, and build something together—whether that’s a LEGO creation, a board game, a project, a skill, or a memory.”

Looking ahead, Sahuarita families can anticipate board game competitions, summer camps, and celebrations spent in the party room. With many exciting plans in store and a warm welcome by the community, MindForge is ready for new visitors, sure to provide meaningful experiences for all.

In addition to open play, MindForge Play Studio also offers guided creative classes for guests who seek a more structured learning experience.

For more information on classes, camps, and memberships, visit mindforgeplaystudio.com.

15920 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd Ste 170 Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520) 505-6869

What’s Cooking in the Kitchen?

Chicken & Avacoda Salad GRILLED CITRUS

Light, fresh, and perfect for warmer evenings.

Ingredients: • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced • 1 avocado, diced • Mixed greens • Cherry tomatoes • Juice of 1 lime • Olive oil, salt & pepper

Instructions: 1. Grill: Season and grill chicken until fully cooked.

2. Toss: Combine greens, avocado, and tomatoes.

3. Top: Add sliced chicken.

4. Drizzle: Finish with lime juice and olive oil before serving.

MAY 2026

11

Trico’s Apprentice Lineworkers Excel At State Rodeo

Trico Electric Cooperative hosted the Arizona

third and fifth in the Hurt-Man Rescue event. the old cross arm from the pole, attaching

Lineman’s Rodeo on March 25, 2026. This The purpose of the Hurt-Man Rescue is to event gathers Apprentice Lineworkers from

the new cross arm, and then reattaching the

demonstrate speed while safely lowering an conductors to the new cross arm. Ward and

electric cooperatives, electric districts and injured worker (represented by a mannequin), Neubauer won the Dead-End Bell Change tribal utilities across Arizona to showcase who is unconscious, from the top of the pole. their skills and knowledge in events based on

“For

Hurt-Man

Rescue,

that

Out.

dummy The state rodeo is a great opportunity for

traditional linemen tasks like pole climbing, represents someone on a pole who’s been

Trico’s Apprentice Lineworkers to showcase

hurt-man rescue and cross-arm change out, injured. It’s important to do it fast to get that the skills they’ve learned on the job. We are while promoting safety and camaraderie.

guy down as fast as possible because every

proud of their hard work and dedication to

“Being able to come together as a group,

second counts,” said Garcia, who has been

our Members.

compete and build that relationship with one with Trico for six years. He started out as a another helps us want to help each other out

Groundman. This is the last year of

when they need our help,” said Jeremy Burnett, his apprenticeship.

Trico Operations Construction Manager.

Garcia

The rodeo included three individual events,

Course in 4 minutes and 10 seconds

a written test and two team events. Trico’s

to win the event. The Obstacle

apprentices performed very well, taking first Course

completed

gives

the

Obstacle

apprentices

the

place in several events. Conor Garcia won opportunity to demonstrate their two individual events and Matt Ward finished ability to work efficiently with gloves, third overall out of 35 Apprentice Lineworkers move insulators and perform tasks from nine state utilities. Sawyer McDonald of

like leaning out and transferring

Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative

equipment while maintaining safety

(SSVEC) was the overall individual winner.

and precision.

Ward and Scott Neubauer of SSVEC were For the team events, Russell and the top team overall, while Troy Mead of

Davian Franco of Electrical District

Trico and Marcus Olivares of SSVEC placed #3 finished first in the Crosssecond. Teammates are randomly selected

Arm Change Out. For this event,

from different utilities and at different stages Lineworkers in their apprenticeship.

demonstrated

their

ability to detach the conductors

Garcia, Tyler Russell and Mead finished first, from the old cross arm, removing

May Focus

Peparing for Desert Summer Transitioning from winter into the bright Arizona spring requires a shift in your routine.

1. Early Hydration Habits Start increasing daily water intake now to stay ahead of the summer heat.

2. Sun Protection Upgrade Use SPF 30+ or higher and reapply often.

3. Shift Your Schedule Plan outdoor time earlier or later in the day.

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Sahuarita Times

CLASSIFIEDS Parkinson’s Support Group of Green Valley Lectures

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s?

Learn how to

“Thrive with INTENT.” In Person and on ZOOM. Dates and Times GVParkinsons.org P.O. BOx 714 Green Valley AZ 85614 supportgroup@GVParkinsons.org

For Carolyn

PETS Lovable, friendly cats and kittens available for adoption through Paws Patrol, 750 W Camino Casa Verde, Green Valley. TuesSat 10:00-2:00. 520-207-4024. Cats are spayed/neutered and current with shots.

REPAIR / SERVICES 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 bobbysvisa@ gmail.com.

WORK LOCATION: MULTIPLE LOCATIONS SAHUARITA Day Porter walks the property daily picking up trash, emptying garbage cans, cleaning any spills or debris. Looking to make sure all signs are attached properly. This is an 6-8 hour job outside. You must have a valid Driver’s License and a reliable vehicle.

Reports any issues that they cannot repair or take care of such as broken windows, chuckholes, sidewalks lifting and more.

Weekly checks include pole lights, under canopy lights, column light or sconces, Checks signage, looks for any damage to building, fences or walls assess any risks at the property and reports.

Maintains the properties in clean and pristine condition free of obstacle, cigarette butts and risks, Skills: • power washing • blowing parking lots and sidewalks • Repair toilets and leaking sink • wiping down window frames, garbage can lids • changing light bulbs • install signs • reporting issues

Job Type: Full-time Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

• Vision insurance Schedule:

Benefits:

• 6-8 hour shift • Day shift • Monday to Friday

• Dental insurance • Health insurance • Life insurance • Paid time off

ADVERTISE HERE

Shift availability: • Day Shift

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.

MAY 2026

13

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Sahuarita Times

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MAY 2026

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