Janet Cook More homeowners are choosing to invest in remodeling to upgrade their experience rather than move due to high mortgage rates and limited housing inventory. In fact, home remodeling projects in the U.S. are projected to rise by 222,400 in 2025—a 5% increase over the previous year. The 37th annual Cost vs. Value Report…
July 2025, Generals
Savor Retirement: Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Retirement
Timothy Malone, Ph.D. Retirement is often envisioned as a time of leisure and relaxation, free from the demands of the workforce. However, this transition can be accompanied by unexpected emotional challenges for many retirees, including frustration, resentment, and even anger. These feelings may stem from financial concerns, health issues, changes in social roles, or feelings…
July 2025, Sports
Play Your Best Pool: Things to Consider When Buying a New Cue Stick or Shaft
Johnny Henson, Professor Pool Over the years cue sticks have evolved a lot. In 1978 I was playing with house sticks in the local pool hall in Big Spring, Texas, when the owner encouraged me to order a cue from a friend of his in Colorado Springs, Colo. His name was Bill Stroud, the owner…
July 2025, Sports
Relishing Pickleball: The Art of Blocking
David Zapatka Last month we discussed how to beat the bangers. Blocking at the kitchen line was a key strategy. This article will pick up with that focus. Consider these strategies to improve your blocking skills. 1. You know the hard shot is coming. Be prepared, knees bent, relaxed, eyes on the ball, paddle out…
July 2025, Clubs & Classes
July Means Freedom—So Light One Up at the Robson Ranch Cigar Meetup!
Because nothing says independence like a cigar in one hand and zero responsibilities in the other. July is all about freedom—freedom from deadlines, freedom from chores, and freedom to enjoy life one puff at a time. At Robson Ranch, we’re celebrating Independence Day the only way we know how: with great cigars, good company, and…
Clubs & Classes, July 2025
Republican Club Honors Our Local Peacekeepers
Conrad Tolson Sheriff Ross Teeple and Eloy Police Chief Sergio Banalas were guests at our May meeting. Sheriff Teeple: Per the Arizona Constitution, the Sheriff is the chief law enforcement for the county; however, they work closely with and support local police and the State Troopers. Pinal County is the size of the state of…
July 2025, Clubs & Classes
Half Price!
Mike Consentino Half price. Yea! Who doesn’t like half price? Membership dues for the Desert Woodcrafters Club are full price ($120) when paid between January 1 and July 1, and half price ($60) when paid between July 1 and Dec. 31. The last half of the year is already upon us and there may be…
July 2025, Religion
Looking Beyond
Pastor Ash Dotson I was looking at a scripture the other day, and it occurred to me that we have it a bit tougher than those who physically followed Jesus. In John 6:36, Jesus speaks with his followers and points out that even though they saw him it was difficult for them to understand or…
July 2025, Religion
More to “Church” Than Meets the Eye
Pastor Larry Sundin Have you ever wondered, “Is there more to ‘church’ than meets the eye?” The first church service I ever attended as an adult was in 1981. There were three distinct impressions I took away from that first service. One, the music wasn’t of my generation. Everyone was singing these slow, plodding songs.…
July 2025, Features
Living Retired: Syncing Your Device
Gary Chalk I am alone in my car parked in our driveway. I am attempting to do what the computer geeks call ‘Syncing Your Device.’ I call it ‘#%$%#!’ When I finish ‘Syncing Your Device’ I will be able to listen to my personal playlist, place and receive phone calls, read my text messages, and…