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Vincent Manfredi

By Vincent Manfredi

House Bill 2802, sponsored by LD11 Rep. Bret Roberts and co-sponsored by Ld11 Rep. Finchem, has passed its first hurdle and now heads to the next – a hearing in the Appropriations Committee – Monday. 

Please reach out via email to the representatives below who serve on the Appropriations Committee and let them know why you support HB 2802, which would help fund needed fixes to the SR 347. If you can, attend the meeting. It’s Monday, Feb. 24, at the Arizona Legislature. Please send a personal email giving examples of why you want this bill to move forward.

DEspinoza@azleg.gov 
CFernandez@azleg.gov
JFillmore@azleg.gov
RFriese@azleg.gov
AKern@azleg.gov
Alieberman@azleg.gov
BToma@azleg.gov
MUdall@azleg.gov
JKavanagh@azleg.gov
RCobb@azleg.gov

Vincent Manfredi is a Maricopa City Councilmember and minority owner of InMaricopa.

 

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IF YOU GO
What: Farm Science Day
When: March 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: U.S. Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center, 21881 N. Cardon Lane
How much: Free
Info: tinyurl.com/USDA-Maricopa

Whether you want to spit a cricket, ride an auto-guidance tractor or learn about remote-sensing instruments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will have something for you to enjoy at Farm Science Day.

The Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center, University of Arizona and Maricopa Agricultural Center welcome all to the free, family-friendly farm and science activities at their location on Smith-Enke Road at Cardon Lane on March 21.

If you’ve ever wondered what is going on at the USDA farm, now is the time to learn about their research and resources. Attendees can watch the “world’s largest field scanner,” plant their own cotton and learn how biotechnology and irrigation technology are changing modern farming.

There will be face painting, cricket-spitting contests, temporary tattoos and kids’ crafts, as well. Wild at Heart will return with its live raptor display, and everyone can enjoy the interactive insect zoo.

Maricopa Master Gardeners and Arizona Farm Bureau will be on hand for the day.

Since the 1980s, U of A’s Maricopa Agricultural Center has been on the land once owned by Fred Enke and John Smith. The mission of the university’s College of Agriculture & Life Sciences is to develop the “best-integrated agricultural technologies for problems faced by Arizona consumers and producers.” At the Maricopa farm, it focuses on cotton, alfalfa, small grains and new specialty crops to be used for fibers, oils and pharmaceuticals.

USDA’s Arid-Land Center opened in 2006. It was created to develop sustainable agricultural systems and protect natural resources in arid areas. Research results will be in the spotlight for the Saturday event.

This story appears in the February issue of InMaricopa.

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Saneya Cowing heads a ball that bounded into the net during the playoff game at Campo Verde.

The Maricopa High School girls soccer team kept a lid on second-ranked Campo Verde much of the game Saturday but ultimately fell 3-1 in the state championship bracket. Seeded 15th in the round of 16, the Rams had the Coyotes scoreless until late in the first half. Campo Verde had the 1-0 lead at the break, but MHS tied the score off a bouncing header from senior Saneya Cowing.

The Coyotes broke through and scored twice more in the final 20 minutes, however, to move on to the quarterfinal. Maricopa’s season ended with a 9-7-1 record overall but with high expectation for the coming seasons as the team is laden with sophomores and freshmen.

Cowing and sophomore McKinley Hacker were both in the 5A San Tan region’s Top 10 in scoring during the season. Sophomores Lexi Rowe and Anna Kramarczyk were Top 10 assists leaders. Next year, the MHS soccer teams move to the 6A Desert Southwest region.

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Al Brandenburg

By Al Brandenburg

The Maricopa Senior Coalition has three long-term goals. Internment and funeral services in Maricopa, digital-photo storage services and a livable/age-friendly community.

As part of the latter and considering the growing size of our senior population, assisted living services becomes important. At some point, some of us will no longer be able to fend for ourselves. Most seniors wish to age in place in their own homes, but sometimes the best option for keeping an aging loved one safe, healthy and active is to consider a move to an assisted-living community.

Fear of the unknown often causes seniors to hesitate when it comes to moving to long-term care. Fortunately, some senior living communities are offering temporary stays, which allow potential residents to test the waters with no long-term commitment.

In the next year or so, Maricopa will have its own assisted-living senior facility near Copper Sky. Senior care exists in two scenarios. Independent living being the least restrictive and assisted living which is also minimally restrictive but, as the name implies, offers assistive services and supports.

Independent living encompasses a wide range of housing arrangements, from apartment-style communities to housing co-ops. Generally, though, residents live in their own private dwelling spaces and have access to common areas where they can gather with other members of their community. Independent living can also be referred to as an active adult community, senior apartments, a retirement community, a 55+ community or a retirement home.

Because this option is designed for seniors who can still live independently, the features and amenities in the individual dwelling areas are comparable to those in a typical small home, townhouse or apartment.

Assisted-living communities with specialized memory care units for seniors with cognitive impairment often feature increased security measures (e.g. locked doors and extra surveillance equipment) and may not allow residents to have kitchens in their apartments, due to safety concerns.

So, when is the right time to consider this move? Timing a transition to senior living can be tricky because it is highly personal. It depends on how well your loved one is faring in their current home, their present health status, and their future medical and personal needs.

Some things to consider:

  • Is the senior capable of getting around safely?
  • Are they wearing fresh, clean clothing each time you visit?
  • Can they bathe themselves, groom adequately, and launder their clothes, towels and linens?
  • Is the senior remembering to take their medications correctly, with the right dosages and at the right time?

If the answer to any these questions is “no,” it may be time to begin researching local assisted-living communities.

MedlinePlus.gov/assistedliving
HealthInAging.org/age-friendly-healthcare

Al Brandenburg is director of the Maricopa Senior Coalition.

This column appears in the February issue of InMaricopa.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Freeway Chevrolet
Freeway Chevrolet

Record demand for quality pre-owned vehicles has created a critical shortage of used inventory at Freeway Chevrolet.

“Used values are high right now due to the shortage of inventory,” said Michael Broadway, Freeway’s general sales manager. “When you combine that with the biggest new car incentives of the year, it’s a win-win for the customers and for us.”

So in order to build up the used car inventory for the spring/summer selling season, Broadway and his team will be conducting the First Annual Presidents Day Trade-In event.

 

150 N. 54th St., Chandler

 

This Presidents Day weekend, Freeway will be offering 120% of Kelley Blue Book on trade ins*.

“When you combine that with savings of up to $15,000 on Silverado and $10,000 on Trax and Equinox, it’s a perfect storm for consumers,”  Broadway said. “And we have excellent inventory of all the 2020 Chevys, including Silverados, Equinox, Traverse and Trax.”

In order to accommodate the influx of Trade-ins, Freeway has covered a portion of its lot for express appraisals. Used Vehicle Director Raymond Bequet will have a team of appraisers on duty with hand held appraisal software to quickly calculate values for customers.

Bequet said, “Time is money for us and for our customers, and the goal is to trade for 100 vehicles during this four day event.”

In addition, a full range of financing options will be available, regardless of credit score, with rates as low as 0%. Broadway emphasizes that this event will end promptly at close of business on Presidents Day (Feb. 17). They are expecting a huge turnout, so appointments are highly recommended, either by calling or book online at FreewayChevy.com.

*Some restriction apply, See dealer for details

 

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U.S. Rep. Tom O'Halleran
U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran

By U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran

In December 2019, I voted to pass the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, a new North American trade deal that will improve international trade with our neighbors to the north and south, protect our workers and environment, and create enforcement provisions to ensure all that trading partners are held accountable.

Last month, I was pleased to see the agreement move through the Senate and to the president’s desk for a signature.

Over the last year, I have sat down with businesses of all sizes across our state to hear about the changes they needed to see in order to succeed and continue to offer services and jobs to Arizona families. I also personally met with Ambassador Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. trade representative, on several occasions to negotiate provisions within this important agreement.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2018, Arizona had $20.4 billion in total trade with potential USMCA markets, and, according to the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, between 1994 and 2017, Arizona’s exports to Mexico grew from $2.4 billion per year to $7.7. billion — a 311% increase.

Currently, over 200,000 jobs in Arizona alone depend on trade with Mexico and Canada. A study from the International Trade Commission found that the USMCA, if ratified, would add an estimated $68.2 billion to the economy and create 176,000 new jobs.

When it comes to our state’s growing economy, creating good-quality jobs that support a family is a key priority of mine. According to a recent study by the University of Arizona, our state is attracting new residents at one of the highest rates in the entire country. Arizona’s economy is not only growing at a pace that exceeds that of our thriving national economy, but is also diversifying away from one main sector—construction and real estate—to include other industries like education, transportation, and manufacturing.

The USMCA will ensure that new jobs in these industries are preserved and that new economic sectors can continue to expand and spur the creation of more employment for Arizona families.

Although Arizona’s job market expanded under NAFTA, the newly renegotiated USMCA is a bigger win for not only our economy, but also our workers and our environment. This agreement improves upon NAFTA by bolstering protections for our hardworking labor community, preserving important environmental standards, and enhancing compliance monitoring. I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that these essential provisions were included in the final agreement language.

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is a win for Arizona workers, rural communities, agriculture producers, and small and large businesses throughout the state. It is an example of legislating done right—thoughtful negotiations, consideration of input from stakeholders and experts, and bipartisan, bicameral support. I was proud to vote to ratify the USCMA and look forward to seeing all the good it will do for our Arizona, our rural communities, and our nation.

Tom O’Halleran is a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing Arizona’s First Congressional District. A Democrat, he lives in the Village of Oak Creek.

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A man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash in Maricopa early Thursday morning.

A 20-year-old man, identified as Briar Mckay Hoover, was in a car with his father when an argument began. The man fell out of the vehicle near S.R. 347 and Smith Enke Road and was struck by another vehicle. Reports by police state the vehicle the male fell out of did remain on scene. All traffic on westbound Smith Enke has reopened to traffic. All road closures due to the accident have been removed.

The other vehicle said to be a “dark-colored” sedan fled the scene.

“We are still investigating what happened,” MPD spokesman Ricardo Alvarado said.

Live traffic camera stream available here.

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Arizona Department of Transportation’s work widening the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway will begin impacting traffic on Jan. 6.

For approximately 60 days, MCGH will be closed between White and Parker and Porter Roads. A detour will be set up along Bowlin Road.

Eastbound Traffic:
Left on Porter Road
Right on Bowlin Road
Right on White and Parker Road

Westbound Traffic:
Right on White and Parker Road
Left on Bowlin Road
Left on Porter Road

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Photos by Kyle Norby

Maricopa Fire/Medical Department, with backup from the volunteers of CERT, hosted its seventh annual Ride for Toys on Saturday at Copper Sky. They collected new toys in exchange for a ride in a fire truck. Kids also met some special guests. The toys go to F.O.R. Maricopa food bank for its Christmas program. Over the years, more than 500 toys have been collected by Ride for Toys. A raffle also helped MFMD provide a cash donation to the organization as well.

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By Scott Bartle

Scott Bartle, InMaricopa publisher

Dear Readers,

Unbelievably, the holiday season is upon us. Halloween is in the rear-view mirror, and now folks are counting down the number of shopping days until Christmas.

But before we get there, we celebrate Thanksgiving. In that spirit, I am writing to tell you how thankful we are for you, our readers. It is for you and because of you our company, services and jobs exist.

We are in our 15th year bringing you hyper-local news and information. We have always made Maricopa news accessible to you at no charge, and we always will. And it is because of your support of our advertisers we are able to do so.

InMaricopa advertisers effectively pick up the tab on myriad costs incurred to report, write, edit, design, print and mail you this magazine. Same drill for InMaricopa.com, Maricopa Health Guide, New Resident Guide and our social media outlets. Businesses financially support the operation so you get our services free.

In addition to the value we bring by entertaining, informing and educating readers, the services we provide, as evidence by our Constitution’s First Amendment, have far-reaching societal benefits.

Our mission is to inform our readers and support our advertisers. We cannot do one without the other, and you are vital to both. Advertisers support us because you support them, and we are inexpressibly grateful to you for that.

Whether you find vendors on the ad list, research local resources in the business directory or just enjoy perusing the ads throughout, know your support of these businesses is critically important and much appreciated.

On behalf of my colleagues at InMaricopa, thank you. Thank you for your readership. Thank you for your support. And thank you for your support of our advertisers.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Appreciatively,

Scott Bartle
Publisher

This column appears in the November issue of InMaricopa.

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A storm has knocked out power in Maricopa and may lead to flash flooding. Photo by Kyle Norby

Maricopa is under a Flash Flood Watch with heavy rains expected this afternoon through Wednesday night. According to the National Weather Serivce, widespread rainfall and a few embedded thunderstorms could lead to flooding of washes and small streams along with localized urban flooding.

There is a 60% chance of rain throughout Maricopa today. The storm has already knocked out power to traffic lights at several intersections on Honeycutt Road and John Wayne Parkway. Please stop and treat intersections as four-ways or three-ways until power is restored.

Electrical District 3 is showing about 1,500 customers without power.

New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. If you are in the watch area, you should watch the weather and be prepared to take immediate action should heavy rain and flooding occur or a flash flood warning be issued.

Tonight’s forecast calls for rain and thunderstorms before 11 p.m., then a chance of rain after 11 p.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. The low around 58 with breezes of 10 to 15 mph gusting as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday’s forecast also has an 80% chance of rain. The chance of rain lessens to 50 percent on Thursday. High temperatures will be in the 60s.

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To: The Honorable Doug Ducey, Governor of the State of Arizona

We, Larry Hall, Olie Swanky and a large additional number of citizens living in the State of Arizona, with all due respect, do ask for your intervention with the Governor of the State of Sonora, Claudia Pavlovich, for us to get justice so that possession is rightfully returned to us and to prevent the further dispossession of our real estate investments that we made in good faith in San Carlos, Guaymas, Sonora.

By invoking influence with officials of the Government of Sonora a few months ago – which influence she does seem to have – Mrs. Catalina Ordaz managed to unjustly and unlawfully commandeer our hotel located on the beach of San Carlos, and she intends to dispossess us of condominium buildings and vacant land primed for development.

As Arizonan investors in Sonora, we felt enormous disappointment and frustration in 2019 with respect to the Government of the State of Sonora since it has been evident how they have unjustly favored the interests of Mrs. Catalina Ordaz to our detriment and prejudice.

We have invested many hundreds of thousands of dollars in Sonora and, at this moment, we feel tremendous uneasiness and legal uncertainty to our detriment from the government of that State.

We believe that the meetings of the Sonora-Arizona and Arizona-Mexico Commissions should not be just a social gathering, but rather be an instrument to promote and protect the interests of the citizens of both States. Therefore, we most respectfully request that you grant us a hearing with you and the Governor of that State at the next meeting of said Commissions to be held on November 5-6 in Hermosillo, Sonora, so that we are allowed to explain personally and in detail the atrocities committed against us due to the “influence” that Mrs. Catalina Ordaz claims to have in Sonora.

Respectfully,

Larry Hall, Olie Swanky et al

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Union Pacific's Big Boy steam locomotive 4014 steaming through Utah in May.

Union Pacific’s historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 is touring the Union Pacific system throughout 2019 to commemorate the transcontinental railroad’s 150th anniversary.

Tips from UPRR

  • Stand back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks.
  • Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right-of-way are private property – please do not trespass.
  • Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – ALWAYS expect a train.

The Big Boy’s return to the rails is the product of more than two years of meticulous restoration work by the Union Pacific Steam Team. No. 4014 is the world’s only operating Big Boy locomotive.

Oct. 16, it is expected to stop in Gila Bend around 12:30 p.m. and then pass through Maricopa (but not stop) on its way to Casa Grande to stay overnight. Maricopa’s Dale Brinkman estimates it will roll through Maricopa around 2:15 p.m.

UP says, due to the dynamic nature of these operations, running times and scheduled stops are subject to change. See the current schedule.

The 25 Big Boy reciprocating steam locomotives were manufactured 1941-44, with engines that weighed over 700,000 pounds. Eight are known to still be around. UPRR reacquired No. 4014 for the purpose of restoring it.

 

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“It resonates very loudly with first responders.”

MPD Commander James Hughes speaks at the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

By Joycelyn Cabrera

The Maricopa Police Department hosted the City’s Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony at its substation at Copper Sky.

The ceremony is the city’s third annual memorial of the Sept. 11 attacks and the only official memorial held in the rural area south of Phoenix. While other suburbs were invited to participate in memorials held in Phoenix and Tempe, the City of Maricopa has held its own Remembrance Ceremony for Sept. 11 for the last three years at the MPD substation and for the previous nine years, going back to 2007, at local elementary schools, said Ricardo Alvarado, MPD’s public information officer.

Photo by Joycelyn Cabrera

MPD Commander James Hughes and Fire Chief Brady Leffler with Maricopa Fire/Medical Department both spoke at the memorial to honor the first responders and civilians who had fallen or were still affected by the attacks 18 years ago.

The city has experienced substantial growth over the last few years, expanding from a small, rural town to a semi-rural, small city. Even so, the community continues to hold multiple annual events year-round, often organized by city departments or volunteer organizations.

The MPD substation’s memorial monument was built and opened to the public by the Maricopa Police Department Foundation to honor fallen officers and their families. It became an obvious place to pay tribute to the 2,977 people who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

“To this day, there are people who still suffer from the effects of going in and helping people to try to save lives,” Leffler said. “There are still people who are dying to this day, from the effects of that day.”

Vice Mayor Henry Wade and Councilmember Rich Vitiello spoke at the memorial. Vitiello, a former resident of New York, shared more of his memories of the attack after the ceremony.

“It was the worst day, to me, in American history. It crushed me as a person, to see innocent people die and the people that are still dying because of it,” Vitiello said. “Innocent people died for no reason, for selfishness and hatred.”

Photo by Joycelyn Cabrera

MPD invites elected officials to speak at the ceremony.

“As a first responder, you have a different view of how things are portrayed because you can be called on at any time to go into a situation where you don’t go home the next day,” Leffler said. “It resonates very loudly with first responders.”

The MPD plans to continue these memorials annually as younger generations are reminded of the historic tragedy that took place before they were born.

“I remember my parents discussing where they were when they heard the news that President Kennedy was assassinated.” Hughes said. “I remember my grandparents talking about where they were when Pearl Harbor was attacked. Now we find ourselves talking about where we were when Sept. 11 happened.”

Shortly after the Remembrance Ceremony, the MPD traveled to Legacy Traditional School to hold another 9/11 memorial service. The police department will continue to host its annual ceremony at the memorial monument for the community to gather close to home.

Joycelyn Cabrera is a graduate of Maricopa High School and a student at the ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism.

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Photo by Kyle Norby

The most expensive home sold in Maricopa from July 16 through August 15 was a rare basement home with spacious master suite on main floor and a movie theater and two bedrooms on the bottom floor. With TLC needed in the backyard, it sold for $6,000 under its asking price. Though 14 years old, the home came with new carpet, new paint and a new water heater.

  1. 44563 W. Venture Lane, Cobblestone Farms

Sold: July 30
Purchase price: $351,000
Square footage: 3,866
Price per square foot: $90.79
Days on market: 140
Builder: Fulton
Year built: 2005
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
Community: Cobblestone Farms
Features: Basement, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, split floor plan, main level bedroom with separate exit, three-car garage
Listing agent: George M. Haith, Coldwell Banker
Selling agent: Lori B. Hodgen, AZ Lane Realty

  1. 41911 W. Lucera Lane, Glennwilde …………………..…………………. $336,500
  2. 42336 W. Bravo Drive, Rancho El Dorado ….………………………… $324,900
  3. 42482 W. Almira Drive, Glennwilde ……………………………….……. $315,500
  4. 41182 W. Robbins Drive, Homestead North ….……………….……. $305,000

This item appears in the September issue of InMaricopa.

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Lifehouse. Submitted photo

Last time Lifehouse played Maricopa, it was for a free concert won by the residents for voting themselves to victory in a “Battle of the Burbs” hosted by radio station Mix 96.3 in 2015.

IF YOU GO

Who: Lifehouse
When: Sept. 20, 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 N. Maricopa Road
How much: $34.50 and up
Info: Ticketmaster.com

This time, the alternative rock band from Los Angeles will be bringing its energetic sound to The Events Center at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. The concert is set for Sept. 20.

Founded in 1999, the band, formerly known as Blyss, has topped charts with multiple hit singles for the better part of 20 years. The group, whose current members are lead vocalist/guitarist Jason Wade, drummer Rick Woolstenhulme (a graduate of Gilbert High School) and bass guitarist Bryce Soderberg, is best known for hits such as “You and Me,” “Hanging by a Moment,” “Sick Cycle Carousel” and “Breathing.”

Since breaking into music in 2000 with their debut album “No Name Face,” Lifehouse has released seven albums – selling more than 15 million around the world. They have also topped out at No. 2 on the Hot 100 with “Hanging by a Moment,” and shared the stage with rock ‘n’ roll icons including the Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam and Matchbox Twenty.

In recent years, Lifehouse has released “Lifehouse: Greatest Hits on Universal Music Enterprises,” a chronological collection of the band’s 18 hit singles and best songs.

LifehouseMusic.com

This story appears in the September issue of InMaricopa.

 

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Sponsored Content

By Angela Askey
Executive Director Public Relations and Marketing

Central Arizona College opened its doors in the fall of 1969 near the base of Signal Peak Mountain in Coolidge, AZ and for 50 years, has been serving and educating the diverse communities of Pinal County by providing accessible, educational, economic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities for those of all ages.

Over the years, CAC has expanded to five campuses and three centers located strategically throughout Pinal County.

During the 1972-73 academic year, the state board for community colleges approved preliminary construction plans for the Arizona College of Technology, now known as the Aravaipa Campus.

Ten years later, CAC began offering classes in Apache Junction, using portables at Apache Junction High School until they moved classes to the Grand Hotel in 1985. In the summer of 1987, the Superstition Mountain Campus opened at its current location.

When voters of Pinal County authorized the college to expand educational opportunities and accessibility throughout the county by approving a nearly $99 million general obligation bond, the College began building two new campuses.

The CAC Maricopa Campus opened for business on January 2, 2013 and one year later, in January 2014 the San Tan Campus opened for business

More than 18,800 individuals have received a degree or certificate from CAC since the first graduation ceremony was held in May of 1970.

As part of CAC’s 50th Anniversary celebration, the Maricopa Campus (17945 N. Regent Dr.) will host a Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 5-9 p.m.

This item appears in the September issue of InMaricopa.

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Maricopa Teen Hall, a new expo tailored for teens and those raising teens, is scheduled for Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at City Hall.

To attend, RSVP at MaricopaTeenHall.com.

The free event will include lunch and fun activities.

It will be a town-hall-style event, but without the politics. Topics will range from how to get a job to building healthy relationships. Exhibitor space is available.

The planning committee includes representatives from Be Awesome Youth Coalition, InMaricopa and the City of Maricopa, with Be Awesome Director Priscilla Behnke and Councilmember Nancy Smith.

Maricopa Teen Hall encourages discussion about Internet safety, mental health, drugs and alcohol education, human trafficking and more. It is a forum for teens and their parents or guardians to share their knowledge and experience while learning valuable information.

“Life is challenging for teens and their parents,” Be Awesome’s Behnke said. “We are excited to bring resources to Maricopa families and fulfill our mission of creating confident, connected and successful youth.”

Be Awesome is a local nonprofit charged with developing confident, connected and successful youth. InMaricopa believes in uniting the community and one of its core values is to create prosperity for our clients and community. Both organizations join Councilmember Nancy Smith in a dedication to Maricopa’s successful future through its youth.

To attend, RSVP at MaricopaTeenHall.com.

There are partnership, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities available. Any donations/sponsorship revenue that exceeds cost of producing the event will be earmarked for teen scholarships. Contact Behnke at 520-428-7750 or PBehnke@BeAwesomeYouth.life.

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Sponsored Content

Corporate Photography .by Mark Skalny 1-888-658-3686 .www.markskalnyphotography.com.#MSP1207

David Lozano
Earned Media Senior Manager
Banner Health Marketing & Public Relations

While the holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and loved ones – passing around the turkey or passing each other gifts – it’s also the time to pass a cold or even the flu to someone if you catch either of those.

It’s not easy to determine what the flu season is going to be like until it hits. A couple of years ago, it hit the United States quite hard. This past season, it was a little less severe, but still considered deadly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as it was estimated that more than 50,000 people across the country died as a result.

According to the CDC, both the cold and flu are similar because they are both respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. However, a cold is usually less severe than the flu. The symptoms for both can be the same, you may suffer from a runny nose and congestion. While a cold is usually milder in its symptoms, the flu can cause some serious and potentially deadly issues in some people.

With the flu, you may suffer from a series of other ailments you may not have with a cold, such as body aches, extreme fatigue, fever, chills, and possibly vomiting or diarrhea. The cold is usually gradual, but the flu can be quick. Some people get over the flu just as quickly, but others could get even sicker, with some developing more serious problems such as pneumonia.

According to health care providers, pneumonia becomes serious when it settles in the lungs. Children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions can be susceptible. Unfortunately, if it goes untreated it can get worse and it could eventually become fatal.

Banner Urgent Care in Casa Grande at 1676 E. McMurray Blvd, Ste 1, is available if people are suffering from a severe cold, or if they think they may have the flu. However, if your symptoms of either develop into something even worse and you are having trouble breathing or having seizures, call 9-1-1 immediately. Banner Casa Grande Medical Center’s Emergency room is available for those who may be suffering from more severe cases, like the flu or pneumonia.

If you are looking at not getting sick this season, prevention for you and your loved ones is going to be important. In addition to good hygiene practices like washing or sanitizing your hands frequently, getting enough rest, drinking plenty of liquids, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and seeing your doctor regularly, other ways to prevent getting sick include:

  • Coughing or sneezing in the crook of your arm to prevent the spread of germs from one person to another. If you feel a cough or sneeze coming on, use your arm as guard. If you can’t do that, try to cover your nose and mouth with something so not to spread germs.
  • Getting a flu vaccination. While flu shots are not 100% effective against the flu, medical experts agree that the flu vaccine is still one of the best defenses when it comes to preventing the flu or helping people recover faster should they get the flu.

The CDC still reported a very active 2018-2019 flu season across the country. From Oct. 1, 2018 to May 4, 2019, the CDC estimates:

  • 4 million to 42.9 million people got the flu
  • 3 million to 20.1 million were treated for the flu by a health care provider
  • 531,000 to 674,000 were hospitalized for the flu
  • 36,400 to 61,200 died as a result of the flu

So, if you think you may have the flu, the CDC says these are the symptoms to look out for:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Some may suffer from vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

If you think you may be suffering from a cold, the CDC says these are the most common symptoms:

  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Headaches
  • Body aches

Should you get sick from either a cold or the flu, it’s important to also check with your regular doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms. Your doctor should have your complete medical information and can advise how you should best be treated for cold or flu symptoms.

For more information about the services provided at Banner Urgent Care, and to find a location near you, please visit www.BannerHealth.com/urgentcare. For more information about the services provided at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center, please visit www.BannerHealth.com/casagrande.

 

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Joan Koczor

By Joan Koczor

Headache is one of the most common and debilitating pain conditions in the world. The World Health Organization names headache the third leading cause of disability in the world and the No. 1 cause of disability in individuals under age 50.

Headaches cause a heavy personal toll in terms of social life, family life, anxiety and depression due to fear of the next headache. They affect people of all races, ages and geographical location.

According to WebMD.com, older people have fewer headaches than younger ones, and migraines tend to disappear with age. At age 70, only 10 percent of women and 5 percent of men have migraines.

Headaches can be triggered by certain environmental factors shared in a family’s household, such as:

  • Second-hand tobacco smoke
  • Strong odors from household chemicals or perfumes
  • Exposure to certain allergens
  • Eating certain foods

Stress, pollution, noise, lighting and weather changes are other environmental factors that can trigger headaches for some people. Changes in humidity, temperature, storms, dry or dusty conditions can all trigger a headache.

Headaches in senior citizens may indicate something more serious. They can be symptoms of several conditions, including:

  • Temporal arteritis
  • Cerebrovascular disease
  • Trigeminal neuralgia
  • Head trauma

Primary headaches

Primary headaches are not the result of another medical condition. The category includes tension-type, migraine and cluster headaches.

Common triggers of tension-type headaches or migraine headaches include:

  • Emotional stress related to family and friends, work or school
  • Alcohol use
  • Skipping meals
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Excessive medication use
  • Tension

Iron deficiency anemia has also been linked to migraines, headaches and an increased predisposition to pain.

Ocular migraine is the most unusual and often misdiagnosed type of migraine. It can happen with or without a headache and is often characterized by visual loss, blind spots, zig-zag lines or seeing stars and floaters or black spots.

Cluster headaches are the most severe type of primary headache. The pain of a cluster headache is intense and has a burning or stabbing quality that is throbbing or constant.

Secondary headaches

Secondary headaches result from another medical or neurological condition and include sinus headaches and medication-overuse headaches.

Sinus headaches are associated with a deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead or bridge of the nose. Medication overuse headaches occur as a result of the overuse of over-the-counter analgesics or prescribed painkillers such as opiates and sedative hypnotic tablets designed for headache management.

Advances in the medical management of headache mean relief is no longer just possible but probable. Although some form of head pain will occasionally visit most people, no one should have to live and suffer with headaches.

Joan Koczor is a senior advocate and a member of the Age-Friendly Maricopa Advisory Committee.

 

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-senior-citizens-day-august-21/
https://www.notjustbingo.com/activity-calendars/august-calendar.html.

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Photos by Victor Moreno

Practice opened for the Maricopa High School swim team this week, with around 45 students showing up for the Rams. Varsity’s swim season beings Sept. 5 in Apache Junction. Copper Sky is scheduled to host four meets.

MHS Swimming
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Photos by Victor Moreno

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The American Legion’s standards of eligibility have changed, opening arms to more military veterans.

Under the new law, any honorably discharged veteran who has served since Dec. 7, 1941, may join the American Legion, meaning military veterans who served what were previously considered periods of peacetime between wars are now eligible for membership.

Before the change, members of the congressionally chartered organization had to have served on active duty during wartime in one of seven combat periods: World War I, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Lebanon and Granada, Panama and Gulf War/War on Terror. The Senate Bill 504, the LEGION Act (Let Everyone Get Involved in Opportunities for National Service Act) was sponsored by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema and became law July 30.

Sinema said many troops served in “lesser” conflicts between the accepted periods, including 1,600 troops killed. She said there are at least 12 eras that resulted in military casualties that have not been recognized as “periods of war” by the U.S. government.

“Expanding Legion membership improves services for veterans across Arizona and honors our brave service members killed or injured during periods of unrecognized war,” Sinema said in a statement. “Our bill shows what’s possible when we stay focused on getting things done that matter.”

Larry Crane, Honor Guard commander of Legion Post 133 in Maricopa, said he hoped the change would bring more members. The post currently has about 135 members while Maricopa’s veterans comprise about 10 percent of its population.

Membership in traditional veterans service organizations has declined over the past several decades as members age and pass away, and veterans of recent conflicts have sought out other gropus or social organizations. This year, however, Veterans of Foreign Wars reversed that trend, adding nearly 25,000 new members, according to VFW National Commander B.J. Lawrence. While the VFW has different origins and different membership requirements from the American Legion, the changes to the American Legion’s eligibility may bolster its ranks as well.

American Legion Post 133 invites all eligible veterans to join the post to help in the many activities it supports locally. Those interested may do so online or by contacting Haven Hull, the adjutant, at 520-208-6434. The post meets on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Maricopa Veterans Center on Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway.

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Brian Petersheim

By Brian Petersheim

In July 2019 real estate was starting to cool down. Many of the buyers in the Maricopa market have purchased their homes and moved in before school started. The market is still great for buying and selling. Even though demand is slowing, supply is also dropping. Experts agree that upward price trends will continue but slow.

 

July’s median list price in Maricopa was $239,500  (- $400 from last month)

 

July-Average price per sqft was $113 (-$3 per sqft from last month)

July-Average home days on the market was 66 (which is a 9 day increase from last month)

Homes under $200,000 averaged 56 days on the market, while more expensive homes over $300,000 averaged 82 days on the market

297  Homes currently available for sale, not under contract, looking for offers
271  Homes currently under contract (should close escrow within 45 days pending inspection, appraisal, etc.)
203 homes total sold in July 2019 (+19 over June)
34 of the sold homes had a built in private pool
$169,900  Least expensive home sold- Notes: 4 bed/2 bath  1,706sqft in Rancho El Dorado (multiple offers) 43682 W. Elm St.
$425,000 Most expensive home sold- Notes: 3 bed/3.5 bath  3,074 sqft single story in Province w/pool, casita, 2 masters and 3 car garage  42521 W. Mallard
17 Homes sold in Province (active adult community)
34 Of the sold homes were brand new/spec homes

Number of bedrooms of 203 sold homes
2 bed – 15
3 bed – 90
4 bed – 82
5 bed – 11
6 bed – 3
7+ bed – 2

Garage parking of 203 sold
2 car – 165
3 car – 38
4 car- 0

Price ranges of the 203 sold:
$150,001-175,000—- 10
$175,001-200,000—- 54
$200,001-225,000—- 49
$225,001-250,000—- 38
$251,001-275,000—- 24
$275,001-300,000—-15
$300,001-350,000—-11
$350,001-400,000—-1
$400,001+               —-1

The biggest news in Maricopa real estate in July was the opening of the model homes in the subdivision of Maricopa Meadows. The Meadows hasn’t seen construction of new homes in approximately 10 years, until last month when K.Hovnanian homes opened up their models on Miller Way, featuring six different single story floor plans and optional three- and four-car garages.

Earlier this year was the regrand opening of the Alterra subdivision with Lennar Homes and their new models and a “roll out” of several new floorplans in Palo Brea (diagonal from Ultrastar) that will feature the upgrade of an attached RV garage.

Final thoughts: The past few weeks the RE market has stayed relatively stable in terms of Sales to Inventory, however, inventory is low enough to keep us in a slight seller’s market.

Any questions about value or the market, please reach out to me.

Brian Petersheim- Realtor
Call/Text 602-206-9644

 

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Nara Lesperance won her age group's putting contest in Tucson. Submitted photo

Despite rainy conditions in Tucson, Maricopa’s Nara Lesperance won the girls’ 10-11 age bracket in the sub-regional Drive, Chip & Putt competition.

The win qualifies her for the regional at Torrey Pines in San Diego Sept. 21.

Nara, the daughter of Jonathan Lesperance and Shianne Holman, won the putting portion of the competition and was third in driving to earn the overall victory. She is a student at Sequoia Pathway Academy. The family has a GoFundMe account to help pay Nara’s travel expenses.

Winners of the regional competitions advance to the national finals at Augusta National Golf Club the Sunday before next year’s Masters Tournament. Drive, Chip & Putt is a free development competition sponsored by the PGA of America, Unites States Golf Association and Masters Tournament.

 

DC&P Sub-Regional
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Submitted photo
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ADOT – The southbound lanes of State Route 347 are closed due to a crash at milepost 188, the junction of Maricopa Road west of Interstate 10, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. Traffic is getting around in the right turn lane.

There is a heavy backup between Maricopa Road and I-10. Drivers should consider an alternate route, such as Riggs Road. There is no estimated time to reopen the southbound lanes. The northbound lanes are unaffected.

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County Supervisor Anthony Smith (District 4) in his Maricopa office. Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

Pinal County Supervisor Anthony Smith announced he will not run for re-election representing District 4.

“In 2008 when I was elected into my first public office, I had no idea I would have the pleasure of serving the people for 12 years,” he said. “As I examine where I am in my life and what opportunities I might have waiting behind the next door, I know it is time for me to head in a different direction. That said, I announce today that l will not run for re-election as county supervisor.”

Smith was previously a mayor of Maricopa, where he and his wife Nancy Smith, a city councilmember, reside.

Reflecting on the progress Pinal County has made in the last few years, he said, “The County is very different from when I started my county service in 2013. In 2013, we were still feeling the impact of the Great Recession. The unemployment rate had soared to 13 percent with hundreds of jobs lost in the housing, agriculture and retail businesses. Sadly, families were being disrupted, and economic growth was basically non-existent.

“Today, Pinal County’s unemployment rate is around 4 percent. In fact, Pinal County was the first Arizona County to regain all jobs lost to the recession. New job opportunities abound. Our economy is being diversified with thousands of new high-tech jobs in industries such as green energy, automotive, aerospace, tourism and many others.”

Forbes recently listed Pinal County government as one of America’s Best-in-State Employers for 2019. Smith said that is something Pinal County can be proud of.

When asked what he considered his biggest accomplishment as supervisor, Smith said, “In 2014 as chairman of the board I led the effort to re-think the county’s Strategic Plan. I believe much of the success we’re having today is a result of driving to a road map that’s focused on growing jobs, improving of transportation network, increasing our quality of life and achieving financial stability.”

Smith is thankful for the support he received during his time as a public servant.

“I especially want to thank Nancy, my loving wife, and my family for their sacrifice and sharing time to allow me to be a public servant,” he said. “In addition, many thanks to Marlene Pearce, our district administrator, for her professionalism and loyal service, too.”

 

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Boys Championship Division: (from left) Ethan Klose, Brayden Bozak, Alan Quezada. Submitted photo

Alan Quezada of Phoenix finished the first round in a three-way tie for first place at 1-over 73 before following up with a blistering 6-under-par 66 to win by six strokes (5-under par) in the Boys Championship division at the Maricopa Junior Championship held Aug. 1-2 at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club. Ethan Klose (75-70) of Phoenix and Brayden Bozak (74-71) of Gilbert finished tied for second place at 1-over-par 145.

Ashley Menne of Surprise also shot 5-under par for the tournament with rounds of 69 and 70 to finish in first place in the Girls Championship division. Talia Gutman of Scottsdale shot 4-over-par 148 (77-71) to come in second place, and Kailani Deedon of Mesa shot rounds of 77 and 72 to finish in third place at 5-over-par 149.
Zachary Frye of Buckeye won in the Boys 15-18 Division at 8-over-par 152 (78-74). Carlos Astiazaran of Tucson won the Boys 13-14 Division at 1-under par (72-71—143). Oliver Uribe of Scottsdale shot even-par (35-37–72) to win the Boys 11-12 Division.

Julie Huggins of Anthem won in the Girls 15-18 division at 15-over par (81-78—159). Kate Hauptman of Scottsdale won the Girls 13-14 division at 11-over par (72-83—155). Natalia Lamadrid of Phoenix won in the Girls 11-12 division at 4-over-par 76 (38-38). And Ashley Shaw of Litchfield Park won in the Girls 10 and Under division at even-par 72 (37-35).

The Junior Golf Association of Arizona hosted the event. JGAA is a nonprofit that develops programs for local schools, assists golf courses with their junior programs, conducts college prep seminars and etiquette clinics.

 

Girls Championship Division: (from left) Kailani Deedon, Ashley Menne, Talia Gutman. Submitted photo

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Notah Begay III
Notah Begay III

Notah Begay III, current NBC Sports and Golf Channel commentator and a four-time winner on the PGA Tour, will host two, free one-hour golf clinics  Aug. 10 at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club.

Begay, the most decorated Native American golfer in history, will host a kids clinic for ages 16 and under at 8 a.m. and a complimentary golf clinic for adults-only at 10 a.m. In addition, Begay will be the special guest at the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Bogle Vineyards Wine Dinner at 5 p.m. that evening in the club’s Arroyo Grille.

“Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club and Troon create a world-class golf experience that challenges golfers of all skill levels and provides a unique opportunity to grow the game in Native American communities,” Begay said. “I’m excited to participate in a day of activities that highlights the successes and attractions of the Ak-Chin Indian Community and gives me an opportunity to teach the game to community youth.”

During the golf clinics, Begay and the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes PGA professional staff will help attendees with the fundamentals of golf and sharpening the swings. Registration is required and space is limited for the golf clinics. Priority registration is available for Ak-Chin Indian Community Members. Register for the golf clinics by emailing Devin Lowe at dlowe@troon.com or by calling 520-426-6830.

“We are excited and deeply honored to be hosting Notah Begay, the most successful Native American golfer in history of the PGA Tour, at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club. Notah has always been very philanthropic with growing the game in Native lands and his appearance on the 10th will be a special memory for all in attendance,” said Brady Wilson, PGA, general manager, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club.

Begay will be the special guest at the Bogle Vineyards Wine Dinner. For $65 per person (plus tax and gratuity), the Wine Dinner includes a five course meal with each course paired with a different Bogle Vineyards wine. Bogle Vineyards wines will be available for discounted purchase, with a two bottle minimum purchase per person required. Reservations are required and attendees must be 21 years or older. Wine Dinner reservations can be made by calling 520-426-6832.

Begay, the only full-blooded Native American to have played on the PGA Tour, was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Begay secured a scholarship to Stanford University, where he earned a degree in economics in addition to earning All-American honors three times and leading the golf team to a National Championship in 1994. In addition to winning four PGA Tour tournaments, Begay became only the third player in the history of professional golf to shoot 59 in a professional event. He partnered with good friend Tiger Woods in the 2000 President’s Cup.

When Begay is not on the golf course, he dedicates his time to positively impacting the Native American community. In 2005, Begay launched The Notah Begay III (NB3) Foundation. The Foundation works to battle obesity and diabetes in the Native American youth. In addition, Begay owns a golf course development firm and works exclusively with Native communities to develop world-class golf properties.

“The Ak-Chin Indian Community is excited and honored to have one of the more visible Native Americans throughout the United States provide a clinic at our Southern Dunes Golf Club, which is rated among the top golf courses in Arizona by Golfweek magazine,” said Ak-Chin Tribal Chairman Robert Miguel. “Notah Begay will not only provide a wonderful clinic for our children and members, but his presence will inspire and motivate all in attendance, in particular Native Americans, that their dreams can become a reality through hard work, desire, motivation and support.”

Golf Landscape: Southern Dunes Golf Club. Credit: Allan Henry / ahenry.com

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Still having trouble accessing some of your favorite Maricopa businesses in the shadow of the overpass? Arizona Department of Transportation has released a new map on the current traffic detours as work continues on Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway. The at-grade railroad track crossing has been eliminated. The former State Route 347 that connects with businesses from Hathaway Avenue to the Amtrak station (north of the tracks) and from A1 Pawn to Honeycutt Avenue (south of the tracks) is the new Maricopa Road.

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Clouds move over mid-town Maricopa in a week that could see raindrops.

Clouds are rolling in, bringing the best chance for rain Maricopa has seen in weeks, according to the National Weather Service, with high likelihood of showers Tuesday.

Tonight, there is a 20-percent chance of rain after 11 p.m. and patchy blowing dust between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m. The low temperature will be around 85 degrees F.

Tuesday the chance of precipitation increases to 30 percent between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. There is also a chance for showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Overall the day will be mostly sunny with a high near 104 and blowing dust before 9 p.m. The night brings a 50 percent chance of rain with accumulation of less than a 10th of an inch.

Wednesday there is also a 50-percent chance of rain before 11 a.m. and possibility of showers and thunderstorms afterward. The day is forecast to be partly sunny with a high near 96. During the night, the chance of rain slips to 30 percent while the low temperature will be around 79.

Thursday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 100. The overnight low will be around 81.

Friday also has a partly sunny forecast with a high near 105 and a nighttime low around 82.

From this distance, the weekend looks to be increasingly hot and dry.

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