October 2026 issue of InMaricopa Magazine InMaricopa.com InMaricopa is Maricopa's premier local news source InMaricopa is your go-to source for hyper-local news and information about Maricopa, Arizona. Stay informed with the latest community updates, events, and stories that matter to our city. InMaricopa is the only dedicated news outlet focusing exclusively on the city of Maricopa, ensuring residents are always in the know.
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October 2026
Green thumbs They share what it takes to grow in Maricopa
Health Guide +
HISTORY • GOVERNMENT • BUSINESS • HOME • THINGS TO DO • MORE
VOTE FOR THE LD16 TEAM YOU TRUST T.J. Shope, Teresa Martinez, and Chris Lopez are fighting for the priorities that matter to our communities. VOTE FOR ALL THREE! The proven team you can TRUST!
YOUR LD16 TEAM HAS VOTED TO: • PROVIDE INCOME TAX RELIEF • ELIMINATE TAX ON TIPS, OVERTIME, AND RENT • SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT • KEEP OUR BORDER SAFE • PROTECT ARIZONA’S WATER FROM OUT-OF-STATE INTERESTS • INVEST IN THE I-10 AND SR347
EARLY VOTING STARTS OCT. 7
ELECTION DAY IS NOV. 3
ARIZONA STATE SENATE
ARIZONA STATE HOUSE
PAID FOR BY SHOPE FOR SENATE, TERESA MARTINEZ FOR ARIZONA, LOPEZ FOR AZ. AUTHORIZED BY T.J. SHOPE, TERESA MARTINEZ, AND CHRIS LOPEZ.
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SQUEEZING OUT THE COMPETITION ON 2026! NO ONE BEATS OUR PRICES AND AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE PRICES GUARANTEED
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18565R15 ALL SEASON RADIAL 88H ...............................................$119.99 ................................................$139.99 19565R15 ALL SEASON RADIAL 91H ................................................$122.99 ................................................$142.99 20555R16 ALL SEASON RADIAL 94W ............................................... $127.99 ................................................ $147.99 21555R16 ALL SEASON RADIAL 95W ...............................................$129.99 ................................................ $149.99 20560R16 ALL SEASON RADIAL 92V................................................$132.99 ................................................$152.99 21560R16 ALL SEASON RADIAL 99H ...............................................$136.99 ................................................$156.99 20565R16 ALL SEASON RADIAL 99H ...............................................$142.99 ................................................$162.99 22550R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 98W ...............................................$149.99 ................................................$169.99 21555R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 98W ...............................................$143.99 ................................................$163.99 22555R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 101W ..............................................$154.99 ................................................ $174.99 22560R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 99V................................................$159.99 ................................................ $179.99 22565R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 102T...............................................$164.99 ................................................$184.99 23565R17 ALL SEASON RADIAL 103T...............................................$172.99 ................................................$192.99 23545R18 ALL SEASON RADIAL 100W .............................................$152.99 ................................................$172.99 MANY OTHER SIZES AVAILABLE. SIZE BUY 2 PRICE EACH LEXANI 40,000 MILE WARRANTY FORTUNE 60,000 MILE WARRANTY
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• Computer precisely aligns front and rear wheels • Ensures straight steering wheels • Necessary for accurate alignment of newer cars • Adjust all 4 wheels for accurate alignment • Shims extra
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• For non-adjustable rear suspensions • Computer precisely aligns front wheels to rear • Enusures straight steering wheels • Necessary for accurate alignment of newer cars
LUBE-OIL-FILTER Prod#01C5 INCLUDES: Battery check, lubricate your car’s chassis (if applicable). Drain old oil & add up to 5 quarts of new 5W30 or 5W20 oil synthetic blend. Install a new oil filter. (Special oil filters slightly higher). $ 34 99 * FREE TIRE ROTATION Upon request • See store for details Reg. $39.99 *with coupon Includes hazardous waste fee. If your MFG. Requires 20W50, or full synthetic oil, or other special weights, there’s an additional charge for other weights of oil. Price is for 5W20 or 5W30 synthetic blend oil up to 5 quarts. With coupon only. Expires 10/31/26.
Most cars & light trucks with coupon only. Expires 10/31/26
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$ 76 99 Includes up to 5 quarts of full synthetic oil (not Mobil 1 oil) 0W-20, 5W-20 or 5W-30. Includes a new oil filter (some specialty filters extra). Includes disposal. Most cars & light trucks with coupon only. Expires 10/31/26 FULL SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE
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BUY 3, GET 4TH FREE † FACTORY DIRECT 23575R15 WRANGLER TRAILRUNNER AT ..............$159.99 27560R20 WRANGLER SRA .............................. $229.99 27555R20 EAGLE LS-2 .................................... $240.99 24565R17 FORTERA HL ................................... $209.99 26550R20 FORTERA HL ................................... $262.99 OTHER SIZES AVAILABLE SIZE BUY 3 PRICE All work guaranteed at 2000 locations nationwide
Prod. #21814/21830 Special! Save $60 on Lifetime Brakes! Free brake inspection Most cars & light trucks with coupon only. Expires 10/31/26
BUY 3, GET 4TH FREE † 19565R15 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 91T BLK........... $142.99 20555R16 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 91H BLK .......... $150.99 20560R16 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 92T BLK .......... $160.99 21560R16 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 95T BLK ...........$157.99 21555R17 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 94H BLK .......... $180.99 23555R17 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 99T BLK .......... $196.99 23545R18 ASSURANCE ALL-SEASON 100H BLK ........ $218.99 OTHER SIZES AVAILABLE SIZE BUY 3 PRICE
NO ONE BEATS OUR TIRE PRICES AND AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE PRICES GUARANTEED
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19945 N. John Wayne Pkwy.
† Buy 3 get the 4th free or Buy 2 select tires and get 2 free. Select tires only. Must purchase tire protection plan and nitrogen package, which includes valve stems, balancing, free tire rotations, free alignment checks, free flat repairs and free replacement for the first 25% of tread wear on a tire that is not repairable (with the nitrogen and tire protection plan purchased). Restrictions and exclusions apply. See store for complete details. Offer may not be combined with any other discounts unless otherwise stated. No dealer or carryout. (Buy to get two free other brands may be substituted, but will carry the same warranty as purchased)**. Offer ends 10/31/2026.
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† Buy 3 get the 4th free or Buy 2 select tires and get 2 free. Select tires only. Must purchase tire protection plan and nitrogen package, which includes valve stems, balancing, free tire rotations, free alignment checks, free flat repairs and free replacement for the first 25% of tread wear on a tire that is not repairable (with the nitrogen and tire protection plan purchased). Restrictions and exclusions apply. See store for complete details. Offer may not be combined with any other discounts unless otherwise stated. No dealer or carryout. (Buy to get two free other brands may be substituted, but will carry the same warranty as purchased)**. Offer ends 10/31/2026.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026 Whether we sold you the tire or not, it is free on repairable tires up to 20 " . See store for details.
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October 2026 | InMaricopa.com State or local taxes or surcharges for Environmental protection will be an extra charge. 3
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CONTENTS
NOW LEASING
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2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM TOWNHOMES BRAND-NEW AFFORDABLE LIVING
LEADING OFF Editor’s letter 6 Contributors 6 HISTORY This month in history 6 A look back at Maricopa Station 8 GOVERNMENT Who wants a seat on city council 10 Who and what you’ll see on the ballot 14 First-time voting 16 Permits 18 BUSINESS Restaurant inspections 20 Business briefs 22 HEALTH GUIDE These dogs heal Maricopa 26 Why choose Maricopa Wellness 32 EDUCATION Meet MUSD’s board candidates 34 First of many Friday night lights 40 HOME Meet your garden gurus 42 Mortgage rate relief 45 The cost of a vacant rental 46 Extreme home sales 48
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THINGS TO DO Events calendar 52 Murder mystery dinner theater returns 54 TRENDING A look at what’s hot on InMaricopa.com 63 PARTING SHOT Peace at Pacana Park 64
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ON THE COVER Monica D. Spencer captures a photo of Pinal County Master Gardeners Harriet Phelps and Wende Gehrt as they take a break from harvesting prickly pear fruit in September.
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*Restrictions & income restrictions apply. See website for details.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
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FROM THE EDITOR
M What takes root? MARICOPA IS GOOD AT GROWING. You can see it in the rooftops, roads and businesses that have filled in what used to be stretches of desert and agricultural fields. But growth isn’t always obvious while you’re living through it. Ten years ago, the Shops at Maricopa Station were a new development. Today, they’re simply part of the landscape: a place to grab coffee, dinner or a sandwich without thinking much about the fact that they weren’t always there. Buildings aren’t the only things that have taken root. In this issue, we look at some of the people, traditions and ideas that have become part of Maricopa. Contributor Tom Schuman shares a profile on the Pinal County Master Gardeners on what they’ve learned about coaxing plants form the desert, while reporter Karen Bartunek introduces two therapy dogs helping children practice reading and bringing comfort to hospital patients. Tom also highlights the return of a murder mystery dinner theater that gives residents another way to gather together. And our election guides offer a closer look at the candidates and propositions on the November ballot.
Publisher SCOTT BARTLE
Those stories might seem unrelated, but they’re all pieces of the same question: What does it mean to grow here? A city grows because of business and
Advertising Director VINCENT MANFREDI
Associate Editor MONICA D. SPENCER
infrastructure, but a community grows when people participate in it. That’s the part of growth that’s harder to measure. A city can count houses, businesses and miles of road, and it can track population and development. But it can’t measure the people and places that become part of everyday life. Maricopa is growing. The question is what, besides buildings, will grow with it.
Operations Director TIFFANY WELCH
One Visit. One Inspection. Total Confidence.
Advertising ERIKA PARAMO MICHELLE SORENSEN Writers KAREN BARTUNEK KRISTINA DONNAY DAYV MORGAN
$ 29 Whole Home Electrical Safety Inspection Between the AC, the appliances, and everything else plugged in, your electrical system works harder than you’d think. Penguin’s licensed electricians will give it a thorough once-over and let you know if anything needs attention. Get a $29 Whole Home Electrical Safety Inspection — call Penguin today!
BRIAN PETERSHEIM KAYDENCE SHIPMAN TOM SCHUMAN MONICA D. SPENCER SHERMAN AND EUPHEMIA WEEKES
Until next month,
MONICA D. SPENCER ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Monica@InMaricopa.com
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Volume 21, Issue 10 InMaricopa 44400 W. Honeycutt Road, Suite 101 Maricopa, AZ 85138
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TOM SCHUMAN Tom helps readers get acquainted with our gardening columnists.
SHERMAN AND EUPHEMIA WEEKES The real estate duo talk what happens when a rental property sits vacant for too long.
KAREN BARTUNEK Karen looks at the benefits of therapy dogs for our annual health guide.
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· Eliminate Hot/Cold Spots · Lower Energy Bills · All Year Comfort
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
6
HISTORY
Before the burritos and subs: The Shops at Maricopa Station More than a decade ago, Maricopa Station was just breaking ground
The Shops at Maricopa Station began taking shape in October 2014, when Vintage Partners and the city broke ground on the 2.44-acre development along John Wayne Parkway, just north of CVS. The project was planned around a 7,800-square-foot multi-tenant building and a 3,300-square-foot drive- thru restaurant, with deals announced for Chipotle, Starbucks, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Jersey Mike’s Subs.
Starbucks was the first tenant to open, with its 2,000-square- foot café and drive- thru welcoming
customers in April 2015. The location employed 30 people. Jersey Mike’s followed in May, becoming the second store to open in the complex. Its 1,400-square-foot shop employed 16 people, most of them Maricopa residents. Zoyo Neighborhood
Chipotle was preparing to open that summer. At the groundbreaking, developer Monty Ortman reflected on his role in Maricopa’s early growth alongside partner Mike Ingram through El Dorado Holdings. The company was instrumental in
lobbying for the expansion of Maricopa Road and developing agricultural land for the city’s growth. “I looked at my partner and said, ‘Why not, let’s do it; it’s no big deal.’ Well, it was a big deal,” Ortman said of getting Maricopa Road built. “It was well worth it though.”
Yogurt was also among the early tenants, while
THIS MONTH IN HISTORY For these and other historical stories, visit InMaricopa.com.
5 years ago Teresa Martinez was selected to replace Rep. Bret Roberts in Arizona’s Legislative then-District 11 after Roberts resigned ahead of a move to South Carolina. The Pinal County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 for Martinez, a Casa Grande resident who identified
10 years ago
15 years ago
20 years ago
The Maricopa High School Marching Rams traveled to Flagstaff to perform their field show, “Postcards,” at Northern Arizona University Band Day. The Rams delivered their strongest performance of the season, improving their state qualifying score and earning an “excellent” rating. Judges praised improvements in timing, articulation and color guard performance.
A major drug trafficking investigation made headlines when authorities announced the results of “Operation Pipeline Express.” The 17-month probe targeted a trafficking organization operating through Arizona, including Thunderbird Farms near Maricopa. It led to 76 arrests and a massive seizure of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, weapons and more than $750,000. Officials linked the organization to Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel.
Maricopa Fire Department’s new Station 574 in Alterra was settling into service. The station included training space, sleeping quarters, a commercial kitchen and a separate cleanup room. At the time, Maricopa Fire had 48 full-time firefighters and three battalion chiefs, with most calls involving emergency medical services. Today, the department has 79 sworn personnel.
water and transportation as her top legislative priorities.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
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WE’VE BE EN SERV ING PINAL COUNTY FOR DECADES WITH ONE SIMPLE PROMISE: honest, reliable service done right!
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At Al & Riley’s, our mission is to provide our community with trusted, high-quality service delivered with honesty, integrity, and genuine care for our customers. We are committed to creating an exceptional customer experience through responsive service, clear communication, and workmanship our customers can rely on. We also believe that great service starts with great people, which is why we are dedicated to fostering a respectful, supportive environment where employees can grow professionally, take pride in their work, and build lasting careers while serving our community with excellence.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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GOVERNMENT
alternate routes for safer, more reliable travel. Jobs and economic development: Maricopa needs more employment opportunities close to home. I will continue supporting responsible commercial and industrial development, helping small businesses succeed and pursuing projects that strengthen our tax base without burdening residents. Public safety and responsible growth: Growth must be matched by police officers, firefighters, roads, drainage, water planning and other essential services. I want the city to stay ahead of those needs while remaining financially responsible. everyone: Growth isn’t just about bigger numbers — it’s about opportunity. I want to attract businesses that create good-paying jobs, support our small business community, create pathways for entrepreneurs and give young people a future in Maricopa. Transparency and accountability: Government works best when people trust it. I’m committed to accessible communication, open town halls where residents shape decisions, and measurable accountability on what council commits to. If a program isn’t working, we own it and fix it publicly. When we bring new housing, new jobs, new schools, are they accessible to working families, young professionals, veterans and longtime residents? Or do we build a city where some of us thrive and others get left behind? I’ve spent my career making sure voices that get overlooked are actually heard and identifying the gaps where real solutions are needed. I refuse to go along to get along, but I will always handle things in a fair and non-contentious manner. I want to bring that same commitment to City Council — leading with both backbone and grace. Public service isn’t about titles; it’s about showing up authentically, listening hard and building solutions that work for all of us — not just some of us. That’s how I’ve led in nonprofits and in media. That’s what Maricopa deserves. PRIORITIES Attainable housing: Maricopa is growing, but housing costs are outpacing our wages. Young families, essential workers and seniors on fixed incomes are being priced out. I want intentional zoning policies and incentives for mixed-income development. Economic growth that reaches
Four candidates are competing for two Maricopa City Council seats in the Nov. 3 general election. Here’s what each candidate says about why they’re running and the issues they would prioritize if elected. Who wants a seat on Maricopa City Council? Meet the candidates running to shape Maricopa’s growth, infrastructure and public safety BY MONICA D. SPENCER
Henry Wade, incumbent GLENNWILDE
Chrystal O’Jon, challenger SENITA
I’ve been involved in public service most of my life, including when I joined the U.S. Air Force. I’m a 20-year veteran and during my time, I started doing activities on base to support ethnic observances. We were responsible for recognizing Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Asian Pacific Islander Week, and I started to incorporate a company called the Cultural Affairs Committee, which is similar to the city’s Cultural Affairs and Arts Committee. I’ve been involved with organizations that support those groups since I was 8 or 9, and I always felt the need to get involved. I’m hopeful that we will still focus on families and particularly the youth. I’d like to continue my work here in Maricopa, particularly with the students and other nonprofits. I bring experience — 12 years on council — and I think my aspect of strong, positive leadership is something I’ve carried with me since a long time ago. PRIORITIES Youth: Youth is my passion. I want to continue supporting youth programs such as Be Awesome and encourage opportunities that allow young people to learn, take on challenges and grow. I also want to see a dedicated youth center in Maricopa. Seniors: The senior community brings knowledge, experience and care to our community. I want to continue supporting opportunities for seniors to share their experience and information and ensuring their voices are heard. Veterans: As a veteran, I understand the importance of supporting fellow military members. I want to continue supporting veteran programs and opportunities that empower veterans and recognize the contributions they make to our community.
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project is complete. We must also build alternate routes, attract more local jobs, support small businesses and keep pace with public safety and infrastructure needs. My goal is to help Maricopa grow responsibly while protecting taxpayers and preserving the community our residents are proud to call home. PRIORITIES Transportation: Completing SR 347 widening remains my top priority. Construction is underway, but we must protect the funding, keep the project moving and continue developing For 30 years, I’ve shown up for communities — as a community volunteer, an entrepreneur, a nonprofit co-founder, and now as Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine publisher and cultural leader. As a woman, a grandmother and a wife, I bring a genuinely caring and authentically concerned perspective to everything I do. Here in Maricopa, I recognized an unmet need and a missed opportunity: Black business owners and entrepreneurs lacked a unified voice and support structure. I helped launch the Black Maricopa Chamber of Commerce to bridge that gap and create real economic pathways. I also established the Maricopa Veteran Care Center because our veterans deserve better, and I built a magazine that tells our neighborhood’s real story — the one that celebrates all of us. I’m running because Maricopa is growing fast — and I’m asking the question that should guide everything we do: growing for WHO?
I am running for City Council because the people who live here should have a voice in what happens in our city. Residents deserve to know what is going on, why decisions are being made and have the opportunity to speak up before those decisions are final. I have never been afraid to ask questions or advocate for my community, and I want to bring that same approach to City Council. PRIORITIES Public safety: Our residents deserve a police and fire system that meets or exceeds comparable communities, with proper staffing, competitive pay, equipment, advancement opportunities and support for dispatch and other critical public safety roles. Transportation: Transportation is about much more than SR 347. We need to continue fighting for improvements to 347 while addressing traffic obstacles within the city and working toward additional routes in and out of Maricopa. Transparency: City government should be customer service oriented. Residents deserve clear and timely information about what the city is doing and why, with opportunities to speak up and give input before decisions are made, not after.
Tena Dugan, challenger GLENNWILDE
Vincent Manfredi, incumbent MARICOPA MEADOWS My family and I have called Maricopa home since 2010. I am a husband, father, small-business owner and current vice mayor. I have served as mayor, vice mayor, and on Council in some form for the last 12 years. Before joining the City Council, I served on the Board of Adjustment and the Zoning Code Rewrite Task Force. I got involved because I saw Maricopa’s potential and complained to the mayor at the time. He told me to run for election and help him fix the issues, so I did. Since then, I have represented our city on regional transportation boards, supported our schools and nonprofits and worked to strengthen public safety and economic opportunity. I am running for reelection because important work remains unfinished. Construction on State Route 347 is underway, but I will not rest until the entire
I am an Arizona native and have called the Maricopa area home since 1996. Long before I considered running for office, I was involved in serving my community: 24 years with the Maricopa Unified School District, 15 years with Little League, eight years on the Parks, Recreation and Libraries Commission, including as chair, and I have served on several community and regional committees. My involvement in public service grew from a simple belief: If something needs to change, you must be willing to show up and be part of the solution. Over the years, I have worked alongside residents on transportation, small business issues, responsible growth and community issues. I have learned that people want to be heard, but too often they feel their voices are ignored before decisions are made.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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GOVERNMENT
MANFREDI RE-ELECT VICE MAYOR Experience H Leadership H Transportation
Who else is on your ballot? A quick guide to the candidates, offices and propositions Maricopa voters will see Nov. 3
Governor
Superintendent of Public Instruction Teresa Leyba Ruiz (D) DrRuizForArizona.com
Corporation Commission Mike Cease (G) Ralph Heap (R) AZCC.vote
State Mine Inspector
Andy Biggs (R) BiggsForArizona.com
Brian Matlock (D) MatlockForAZMI.com
Katie Hobbs (D) KatieHobbs.org
Walter “Les” Presmyk (R) LesPresmyk.com
Kimberly Yee (R) KimberlyYee.com
Jonathon Hill (D) VoteHillAZ.com Clara Pratte (D) ClaraForAZ.com Kevin Thompson (R) ThompsonForCorpComm.com
Teri Ann Hourihan (NL) TeriAnn4AZGov.org
Risa Lombardo (G) RisaLombardo.com Lieutenant Governor Lisa Castillo (G) John Giles (I) Sine Kerr (R) Angela Harrolle Mohan (NL) Secretary of State
• Delivered real funding progress for SR 347 • No developer, union, or utility campaign donations • Voted to lower city property tax rates 9 times • Pro small business and responsible growth • Accessible, experienced, and proven • Supports public safety
Legislative District 16 The Arizona Legislature writes and votes on state laws and the state budget. Your legislative district elects two representatives to the House and one senator. Arizona House of Representatives Julia Gusse, challenger Democrat JuliaForArizona.com
Arizona Senate
Elaine Aldrete, challenger Democrat Aldrete4AZ.org T.J. Shope, incumbent Republican TJShope.com
Dwayne Collier (G)
Adrian Fontes (D) ElectFontes.com
U.S. Congress Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District elects one member to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Alexander Kolodin (R) AlexForAZ.com Attorney General
Chris Lopez, incumbent Republican LopezForAZ.com Teresa Martinez, incumbent Republican MartinezForArizona.com
Kris Mayes (D) KrisMayes.com
Congressional District 2
Eli Crane, incumbent Republican EliForArizona.com
Warren Petersen (R) PetersenForAG.com State Treasurer Nick Mansour (D) MansourForArizona.com
Ask me anything (602) 373-9996 Campaign@VincentManfredi.com Maricopa Small Business Owner
Curtis Goodwin, challenger Libertarian
Jonathan Nez, challenger Democrat JonathanNezForAZ.com
Elijah Norton (R) NortonForAZ.com
Prop 320: School district spending Requires certain districts statewide to devote at least 60% of operational spending to direct instructional expenses, with penalties for noncompliance.
Prop 414: Maricopa General Plan update Decides whether Maricopa will replace its 2016 General Plan with an updated 10-year framework for growth, land use, transportation, parks, public facilities, economic development and resource conservation.
Prop 416: MUSD maintenance and operations override Continue Maricopa Unified School District’s existing 10% M&O override, worth about $7.8 million annually, for class sizes, RAM Academy and technology.
Paid for by Vote Manfredi
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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GOVERNMENT
Rep. Teresa Martinez Incumbent, Arizona House of Representatives
Before they ran for office, they were first-time voters BY MONICA D. SPENCER
How old were you when you first registered to vote? I was 18 and registered so I could get extra credit in a class at Central Arizona College.
What was the first election you voted in? I think the first election I paid attention to was [the 1994 presidential election with] Bill Clinton. I remember because he was running against Ross Perot and George H. W. Bush. I remember thinking, “Look at that old man and look at this guy. He’s cool, he’s playing the saxophone.” Rock Your Vote was really popular on MTV, so that’s when I became engaged. How did you feel the first time you voted? I remember being happy about [Clinton] winning. Looking back now, I didn’t even know at the time he was a Democrat. I just saw this cool and exciting guy compared to these two old guys.
B
Registering to vote is the first step to participating in an election. But the reasons people take can be as varied as the voters themselves. So, we asked several Maricopa candidates and incumbents to look back at a more personal civic milestone: When did you first register to vote and what do you remember about it?
EFORE THE CAMPAIGN SIGNS, THE DEBATES AND ballots, there was the first registration. Arizona has more than 4.3 million registered voters, but every one of them had to take that first step at some point. The state’s voter rolls have doubled since 2000, when about 2.17 million Arizonans were registered.
WANT TO REGISTER? HERE’S HOW
Register online: Eligible voters with an Arizona driver license or state ID can register or update their registration through AZMVDNow.com.
Check your registration: Voters can verify their registration, districts and other election information through AZMVDNow.com.
election is Oct. 5 at 11:59 p.m.
and county residents, and at least 18 years old by Nov. 3. Certain felony convictions and court adjudications can affect eligibility.
Julia Gusse Candidate, Arizona House of Representatives
Who can register: Arizona voters must be U.S. citizens, Arizona
How old were you when you first registered to vote? It was after I got out of the service, so I was 26. When I was in the military, they didn’t encourage it and I don’t even know how they would have gotten the ballots to us at the time, since it’s not like today. Why did you decide to register? We were living in Whittier, Calif., so we wanted to make sure we were choosing the individuals that we wanted in city council and I remember the governor’s race. Arnold Schwarzneggar ran and it was a big deal. I was surprised that he won because he’s a Republican and it’s a majority Democrat state, so it was very interesting. How did you feel the first time you voted? It was very meaningful because some of our veterans groups in Southern California were trying to get a park dedicated to us. In order to do that, we had to elect the right people in the city to get that done.
The deadline to vote in the November general
(520) 213-5021 Quality Service at a Fair Price
Rep. Chris Lopez Incumbent, Arizona House of Representatives How old were you when you first registered to vote? I was 18; it was the first thing I did. I was so excited to do it, and I remember going down to the post office. Why did you decide to register? I always loved the involvement and election process, but I will say growing up in the Reagan era, I regard Ronald Reagan as the best president in our history. It really excited and interested me when he would write handwritten letters and sign them.
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How did you feel the first time you voted? I felt so excited being involved. I’ve voted in every election since.
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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InMaricopa.com | October 2026
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GOVERNMENT
for exterior wall signs under 100 s.f. at Buffalo Wild Wings . Butterfield Commons Apartments issued solar for 228 panels on shade canopy at 44235 W. Honeycutt Ave. The contractor is Harmon Electric. CBH Properties Maricopa issued development review permit to construct a Christian Brothers automotive shop at 42644 W. Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway. Crown Atlantic Company issued conditional use permit for existing cell tower at 20386 N. Murphy Road. Desert Cedars Equities issued monument sign. The contractor is Royal Sign Company. Gunsmoke Ranch Apartments issued multiple access gates at 19550 N. Gunsmoke Road. The contractor is BeckShar. Moonlight issued amended preliminary plat request to add 55 additional homes with smaller lot sizes. Mount Moriah Community AME Church issued on-site improvement at 19275 N. Gunsmoke Road. The contractor is Redden Construction. Queen Creek Fiesta issued final plat to create
separate parcels for Nando’s Mexican Café and Petco. San Travasa issued planned area development amendment for parcel four at 40115 W. Iron Point Road. TTRG AZ Maricopa issued wall sign to install building signs over 100 s.f. at Someburros . The contractor is Universal Sign Installation. Maricopa Leased Housing Associates issued access gates for Stonegate at 18260 N. Alan Stephens Parkway. The contractor is LSH Construction. Jean Ventures issued comprehensive sign plan for Terrible-Herbst Chevron gas station and convenience store at 17973 N. Porter Road. RESIDENTIAL Ashton Woods to construct 5 homes in Rancho Mirage. Beazer Homes to construct 9 homes in Rancho Mirage. D.R. Horton to construct 1 home in Moonlight. Dream Finders Homes Arizona to construct 3 homes in Palomino Ridge. Lennar to construct 20 homes in Anderson Farms. Meritage Homes of Arizona to construct 10 homes in Rancho Mirage Estates. Oakwood Homes to construct 6 homes in Moonlight. Pulte Homes to construct 1 home in El Rancho Santa Rosa. Richmond American Homes to construct 1 home in the Lakes at Rancho El Dorado. TNHC Arizona to construct 2 homes in Moonlight.
BRIEF
New homes starting in the $300s
Permits Aug. 11-Sept. 10
COMMERCIAL A+ Charter Schools issued on-site improvement at 41735 W. Alan Stephens Parkway. Anderson Farms issued swimming pool at 35840 W. Farrell Road, valued at $121,216. The contractor is Cody Pools. PCG Maricopa Grande issued commercial tenant improvement for The Back Nine at 41724 W. Smith-Enke Road, valued at $292,915. The contractor is Copper State Developments. PH Maricopa issued on-site improvement for Black Rock Coffee Bar at 20265 N. John Wayne Parkway. The contractor is Diesel Dog Contracting. Blazing Wings Properties issued wall sign
Find your new home here
5 RESIDENTIAL SOLAR 9 RESIDENTIAL SWIMMING POOLS 58 SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES 10 RESIDENTIAL ALTERATIONS 32 TEMPORARY ROAD RESTRICTIONS/CLOSURES
Contact us for Maricopa specific homebuyer incentives. 480.405.5313 PhoenixInfo@drhorton.com DRH Properties, Inc., Broker. Home and community information, pricing, plans, included features, options, terms, availability, amenities and co-broke are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Square footage dimensions are approximate and vary by elevation. Drawings, pictures, photographs, video, square footages, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Price shown is base home price and does not include closing cost and fees, lot premium, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect final cost of the home. Please see a sales agent for complete details, including a list of available homes. Sales that are conditional may be rescinded by purchaser until receipt and acceptance of the Arizona Subdivision Disclosure (Public) Report. A copy of the public report is available on the State Real Estate Department’s website. D.R. Horton reserves the right to cancel or change all offers without prior notice. If buyer is working with a licensed real estate agent or broker, the agent or broker must accompany and register buyer on first visit to the D.R. Horton sales office. Prices vary by community. Furnishings and decorative items are not included with home purchase. Landscaping may be a decorator item not included in the purchase price and may not be available. D.R. Horton is an Equal Housing Opportunity Builder. Construction by DRH Construction, Inc., ROC # 064532-B.
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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BUSINESS
YOUR TRUSTED
LIZARD HEIGHTS L GLASS Serving Maricopa since 2006
SOLUTION FOR AUTO HOME BUSINESS
A summary of the Aug. 11 – Sept. 10 food inspections by Pinal County Environmental Health Services.
Restaurant inspections
EXCELLENT
• Fry’s Marketplace – Sushi
SATISFACTORY • Wendy’s
CASUAL CATERING WE MAKE PARTIES A PIECE OF CAKE!
Custom Shower Enclosures • Frameless • Semi-frameless
• Inspection found significant dirt and grime beneath equipment, standing water and mold-like buildup in floor sinks.
MOBILE SERVICE We come to you!
Dual Pane Glass Replacement • Fogged/moisture between panes • Cracked glass • Glass upgrades (improve efficiency) Patio Door Repairs • Difficult to open • Handle/lock repair/replacement
Auto Glass • Mobile service • Windshield replacements • Calibration service (front camera) • Windshield chip repairs
EXCELLENT: All priority standards are observed as compliant. SATISFACTORY: One or more priority standards are out of compliance. All priority standards are corrected at the time of inspection. NEEDS IMPROVEMENT: One or more priority standards is out of compliance. At least one violation is not corrected at the time of inspection. When violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the department during a follow-up inspection, a satisfactory rating will be given. UNACCEPTABLE: One or more violations observed are an “imminent health hazard.” Hazards include the misuse of poisonous or toxic materials, onset of an apparent foodborne illness outbreak and unsanitary conditions that may endanger public health. Hazards can stem from fires, floods, electrical or water problems, and sewage backup. When violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the department during a follow- up inspection, a satisfactory rating will be given. What do the ratings mean?
• Side and back glass replacements • Heavy equipment (Caterpillar, etc.) • Insurance accepted • Preferred provider with most insurance companies
BIRTHDAYS n SPORTS BANQUETS n FAMILY REUNIONS WORK LUNCHES n POOL PARTIES n CUSTOMIZED MENUS FREE DELIVERY TO MARICOPA 520.426.6832 ARROYOGRILLE.COM 48456 WEST HIGHWAY 238 IN MARICOPA CALL TODAY TO PARTY!
Window Repairs • Windows won’t stay open • Windows won’t slide
Table & Desk Top Protection Mirrors Shelves
Veteran Owned & Operated
(520) 868-6180 sales@lizardhg.com www.lizardhg.com
ROC 222192 (CR-65)
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
InMaricopa.com | October 2026
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com
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BUSINESS
Maricopa
BRIEF
3
Sakura Asian Kitchen
1 MADCAPS Maricopa’s planned family entertainment center has a name: MADCAPS. The indoor- outdoor venue at Copper Sky Regional Park will feature duckpin bowling, miniature golf, go-karts, a full arcade and a mixed-reality arena, along with dining and outdoor seating. The two-story venue is designed as an upscale take on the traditional family entertainment center. 2 Mountainside Fitness This Arizona-based fitness chain is once again looking to open a Maricopa location. Phoenix-based Evolve Ventures submitted pre-application paperwork to bring a 40,000-square-foot Mountainside Fitness just south of Southbridge Marketplace, according to public records. The gym will sit immediately south of Lowe’s Home Improvement and Trulieve Dispensary. A project narrative said the gym will offer “local residents convenient access to top-tier athletic training facilities, group fitness spaces and supportive health amenities.” 3 Sakura Asian Kitchen The space that once housed Asian Seoul’s Copa Kitchen could soon be home to Sakura Asian Kitchen. Paperwork submitted to the city shows plans for a 9-foot-long illuminated sign for the restaurant space. It is the first hint of what’s to occupy the space since Copa Kitchen permanently closed in August. There is no timeline for the restaurant’s opening. 4 Terrible’s Developers submitted a comprehensive sign plan featuring Chevron branding that lays out the proposed signage, with monument, canopy and building wall signs, as well as a 50-foot flagpole. There is currently no timeline for construction.
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(520) 494-7805 21542 N John Wayne Pkwy, Maricopa
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Health Guide www.InMaricopa.com
October 2026 | InMaricopa.com 25 YOUR LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCE
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