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…
July 2025, Clubs & Classes
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 ($60) when paid between July 1 and Dec. 31. The last half of the year is already upon us and there may be…
July 2025, Religion
Looking Beyond
Pastor Ash Dotson I was looking at a scripture the other day, and it occurred to me that we have it a bit tougher than those who physically followed Jesus. In John 6:36, Jesus speaks with his followers and points out that even though they saw him it was difficult for them to understand or…
Religion, July 2025
More to “Church” Than Meets the Eye
Pastor Larry Sundin Have you ever wondered, “Is there more to ‘church’ than meets the eye?” The first church service I ever attended as an adult was in 1981. There were three distinct impressions I took away from that first service. One, the music wasn’t of my generation. Everyone was singing these slow, plodding songs.…
July 2025, Features
Living Retired: Syncing Your Device
Gary Chalk I am alone in my car parked in our driveway. I am attempting to do what the computer geeks call ‘Syncing Your Device.’ I call it ‘#%$%#!’ 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…
July 2025, Features
Word of the Month: Cudgel
David Zapatka Friend and fellow bridge player, Susan, writes, “I recently read a new word, ‘cudgel.’ Would you research this word for your column?” Cudgel—cud·gel noun: A short, thick stick used as a weapon. verb: To strike or beat with a cudgel; metaphorically, to forcefully apply or exert something, such as pressure or influence Origin…
July 2025, Features
Scams at an All-Time High in 2024
R.O.S.E., Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) released its 2024 Annual Report. This report sheds light on the alarming rise of scams and highlights their devastating financial impact. The IC3 recorded over 850,000 complaints, with reported losses soaring to $16.6 billion. This is a staggering 33% increase from 2023.…