This week on Around The Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley welcomes Beth Ernst (Chief Operating Officer), Cindy Barbee (Director of Marketing), and Bill Hintala (Director of Dining Services) from La Posada at Green Valley to preview the upcoming Taste of La Posada, happening Friday, March 27th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

More than just a food event, Taste of La Posada invites the community onto campus to experience life firsthand. Guests can sample signature dishes, tour beautifully renovated apartment homes and freestanding residences, explore the 100-acre campus, and attend one of two special resident Q&A panels held at Central Park’s outdoor amphitheater. It’s a chance to ask real questions and hear directly from the people who call La Posada home.

Director of Dining Services Bill Hintala shares an exciting preview of the menu, including barbecue ribs, prickly pear chicken, La Posada’s famous chili, Mediterranean salads, vegan options, and a Grand Marnier chocolate shooter inspired by resident recipes. With over 600 guests served last year, planning is meticulous — and this year includes expanded tents, organized arrival times, and shuttle service to ensure a smooth experience.

Guests are encouraged to RSVP in advance at laposadagreenvalley.org or by calling 520-648-8131 to reserve lunch times and panel seating.

If you’ve ever wondered what life is really like at La Posada — from dining and social life to its full continuum of care — this event offers a relaxed, welcoming way to find out.

On this week’s Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomed Sandy Wahl, Audra Barney, and Ellen March to talk about the upcoming Green Valley Health Fair, happening Monday, March 2nd from 9 a.m. to noon at the GVR West Center.

Presented by the Greater Green Valley Health Education Association (GGVHEA), the Health Fair is celebrating its 33rd year, having first launched in 1993. What began as a collaborative community effort has grown into one of Green Valley’s most anticipated annual events, drawing more than 1,000 attendees each year and featuring over 75 vendors and participants.

Attendees can explore a wide variety of health resources both inside and outside the venue. Highlights include:

• The Center for Neurosciences Foundation Brain Bus, offering information on aging brain health
  
  
• The American Red Cross Blood Mobile (accepting donations from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; appointments recommended at redcrossblood.org)
  
  
• Multiple free health screenings including blood pressure, glucose, BMI, vision and glaucoma testing, balance testing, and foot assessments
  
  
• A new colorectal cancer screening blood test provided by Guardant Health (covered by Medicare Part B with insurance card)
  
  
• Adelita’s Coffee Truck serving drinks and treats

In addition to connecting residents with local providers, nonprofits, and specialists, attendees can pick up the updated Green Valley Health Services Directory, also distributed in the Green Valley News. The comprehensive directory is updated annually and includes local healthcare providers, caregiver services, behavioral health resources, cardiology, Alzheimer’s and dementia support, and more.

The Health Fair is made possible by generous community sponsors, with proceeds supporting scholarships for local graduating seniors pursuing careers in medical fields. Over the past two years, the organization has awarded scholarships to ten students from area high schools, helping invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Admission to the Health Fair is free, and organizers encourage residents to come prepared with questions, take advantage of screenings, and discover the many healthcare resources available right here in Green Valley. For more information, visit gvhealthfair.com.

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley welcomes John Wynn and Nicole Raymond, co-chairs of Jazz in the Desert, the Valle Verde Rotary fundraiser now in its 17th year. The event showcases the incredible talent of local middle school and high school jazz bands from across the I-19 corridor — all while raising vital funds for student music programs and Rotary-supported community projects.

The matinee performance begins at 1 p.m. for just $10 and features Sahuarita Middle School, Continental Music Department, Anza Trail Coyotes, and Sahuarita High Jazz II. The evening dinner show at 5:30 p.m. ($60) includes additional high school bands, a full dinner, silent and live auctions, and exciting prizes — including a Mexican cruise, original artwork, Arizona Lottery package, and even an authenticated Willie Mays autographed photo!

Proceeds benefit local youth music programs and Rotary initiatives such as scholarships, literacy efforts, youth leadership programs, and international humanitarian work. With only a handful of dinner tickets remaining, now’s the time to act. Learn more and purchase tickets at vvrotaryfoundation.net — and come enjoy an evening of outstanding music, community spirit, and giving back.

For More Visit the Website https://www.vvrotaryfoundation.net

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes leaders from American Legion Post 66 to highlight the organization’s deep roots, wide-ranging community impact, and upcoming events in Green Valley. Joining the conversation are Commander Marc Davis, First Vice Commander Ginny Prest, and Second Vice Commander Tom Thompson, who explain the American Legion’s mission of serving veterans, supporting families, strengthening youth programs, and giving back through charitable outreach.

The discussion covers how Post 66 supports veterans through on-site VA assistance, health screenings, blood drives, and guidance navigating VA services, while also emphasizing that the Legion is a family-oriented organization welcoming Auxiliary members, Sons of the American Legion, and the wider community. The guests outline major fundraisers and events, including a Classic Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show on February 21 and a March 21 golf tournament benefiting Honor Flight Southern Arizona, the Fisher House, and local high-school scholarships. Additional highlights include Memorial Day ceremonies, Flag Day activities along La Cañada, Fourth of July celebrations, and youth partnerships with local Scout troops and schools.

Listeners also learn about the many social and community activities hosted at Post 66, from weekly dances, bingo, karaoke, and live music to popular events like “Breakfast in a Bag,” open houses, and hall rentals available to non-members. The episode wraps with details on how to get involved, volunteer, or learn more by visiting the post or contacting their office.

On this episode of Around the Cracker Barrel on KGVY, host Guy Atchley sits down with Polo Ruiz, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, for a sobering and eye-opening discussion on the ongoing war on drugs and its direct impact on Arizona communities.

Ruiz identifies synthetic drugs—especially fentanyl and methamphetamine—as the greatest threats facing the state, explaining how Arizona’s proximity to the border has made it a key trans-shipment hub for cartel operations. He details the alarming rise of carfentanyl, a substance so potent it is used to tranquilize elephants, and how its spread has contributed to overdoses across all ages, backgrounds, and communities.

The conversation also highlights the growing dangers to children and teens, including pills disguised as candy, the importance of Narcan availability, and the DEA’s expanding community outreach, education programs, and citizen and teen academies. Ruiz emphasizes the role the public can play by reporting suspicious activity and staying informed.

Drawing from more than 30 years in law enforcement, Ruiz shares powerful firsthand experiences that underscore the human cost of addiction and reinforce why the fight continues. The episode offers an unfiltered look at enforcement efforts, cartel tactics, and the urgent need for community awareness in confronting one of the most serious public health and safety crises of our time.

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley broadcasts live from Posada Java at La Posada at Green Valley to spotlight the Tom Wilstead Memorial Bike Roundup, a community-driven event honoring the legacy of a passionate cyclist and advocate. Guests include event director Tim Stewart, co-founder Hank Deutsch, and La Posada Communities Marketing Manager Cindy Barbee, who share the inspiring story behind the roundup and its growing impact across Southern Arizona.

The two-day bike roundup takes place Saturday, January 31, and Sunday, February 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the La Posada Community Center. Community members are encouraged to donate bicycles of all types—adult, children’s, e-bikes, trikes, recumbents—as well as bike accessories and gear. Donations benefit several well-deserving organizations, including El Grupo Youth Cycling, community programs in Nogales, and local schools serving under-resourced students. The conversation highlights La Posada’s nationally recognized cycling culture, the Posada Peddlers bike group, and how donated bikes help promote health, independence, and opportunity for youth throughout the region.

Listeners will also learn how easy it is to participate, including bike pickup options, tax donation receipts, and even a complimentary coffee at Posada Java for donors. It’s a heartfelt, humorous, and informative discussion celebrating generosity, community spirit, and the power of cycling to change lives.

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes members of the Santa Cruz Valley Car Nuts to spotlight one of Southern Arizona’s most anticipated community events — the 31st Annual Santa Cruz Valley Car Nuts Classic Car Show, happening Saturday, January 31st in Sahuarita.

Guests John Murray, Barb Cottis, and Mike Thomas share the rich history of the Car Nuts Club, which began in 1994 as a small group of car enthusiasts and has grown into a major fundraising force for local education. The conversation explores how the annual car show has evolved into a regional draw, featuring up to 300 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods and vintage trucks to rare, high-value restorations — including a special appearance by a car featured at the SEMA Show.

Listeners will learn what makes this year’s event special, including the scenic grass-field venue at Quail Creek Veterans Memorial Municipal Park, the wide variety of car classes and awards, food trucks, and the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The guests also discuss how the event directly supports automotive education programs at Sahuarita High School and Walden Grove High School, helping inspire the next generation of mechanics and automotive professionals.

The show highlights the passion behind classic car culture, the camaraderie of the Car Nuts Club, and their remarkable commitment to giving back — with more than $875,000 donated to the community over the years. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a great local event, this episode offers a nostalgic and informative look at why this car show continues to thrive.

For More Info, Find them on the Web at https://www.carnuts.org

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley is joined by Kevin McNichols, Volunteer Coordinator for the Santa Rita Fire District and the Santa Rita Fire Corps, for an in-depth conversation about the vital role volunteers play in keeping the Green Valley and Sahuarita communities safe.

McNichols explains how Fire Corps volunteers support firefighters and first responders by handling essential non-emergency tasks — from changing smoke alarm batteries and installing residential lock boxes, to running inter-station mail, assisting with training exercises, and supporting public education programs. These efforts allow fire crews to remain ready and available for emergencies while improving overall community safety.

The discussion also highlights the work of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteers, who help neighborhoods prepare for disasters, promote Firewise programs to reduce wildfire risk, and provide CPR and AED refresher training throughout the community. The concept of “normalcy bias” is explored, emphasizing why preparation and awareness are critical even in seemingly low-risk environments.

Listeners learn how to get involved, the flexible time commitment required, and the wide range of skills volunteers can contribute — whether in the field, in schools, or behind the scenes. McNichols also shares practical safety tips, explains how emergency responses work on I-19, and encourages residents to take advantage of free safety resources offered by the fire district.

A valuable and informative episode that showcases community service, preparedness, and the people working every day to protect Southern Arizona. To Volunteer Call 520-393-7505

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes listeners to a conversation about lifelong learning in Southern Arizona through OLLI UA. Guy is joined by Lynn Janklow and Janelle McCormick, volunteers from the Green Valley campus of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arizona (OLLI UA).

The discussion highlights how OLLI UA provides enriching, curiosity-driven educational opportunities for adults age 50 and better, with no tests, grades, or pressure—just learning for the joy of it. The guests explain the wide range of in-person, online, and hybrid classes available in Green Valley and Tucson, along with affordable membership options that allow participants to take as many courses as they wish each semester.

Listeners also learn about the social side of OLLI UA, including field trips, discussion groups, special one-session “OLLI Talks,” and even new travel opportunities such as group trips to the Canadian Maritimes and Ireland. From topics like artificial intelligence and current events to music, history, spirituality, and Southern Arizona exploration, the program offers something for nearly every interest.

The show wraps up with details about Discover OLLI, an upcoming open house designed to help prospective members learn more, meet volunteers, and register for classes. As emphasized throughout the conversation, OLLI UA is not only about education—it’s also a welcoming way to connect with others, stay mentally active, and remain engaged in the community.

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley sits down with Linda Osborne, Director of Sales, and Megan Westerdahl, Retirement Counselor at La Posada at Green Valley, for an engaging and informative “Mythbusters” conversation focused on retirement living. The discussion opens with highlights from La Posada’s holiday golf cart parade, showcasing the culture, creativity, and strong sense of community enjoyed by residents.

Getting into the heart of the show, Megen and Linda tackle some of the common myths about retirement housing—starting with the belief that staying in one’s current home is always the best option. Linda and Megan explain how social connection, predictable costs, and access to on-site services can significantly improve both quality of life and long-term health. They emphasize La Posada’s continuum of care, which allows residents to enjoy independent living while having seamless access to RN support, assisted living, memory care, and home health services if needs change—without leaving the community they know and love.

Other Myths have centered around assumptions about cost, loss of independence, or being “forced” into higher levels of care and Linda and Megen share why these myths simply don’t hold up. The team explains La Posada’s transparent financial model, predictable monthly expenses, life-lease promise, and strong support systems—from 24-hour security and transportation to maintenance, tech help, and personalized move-in assistance. Stories shared during the show bring these benefits to life, illustrating how La Posada removes everyday stress so residents can focus on what matters most.

The episode wraps with a look at what truly sets La Posada apart: dedicated staff, nonprofit values, a wide variety of living options, and a mission centered on maximizing well-being—not profit. For anyone curious about retirement living in Southern Arizona, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a fresh perspective on what modern senior living can be. Reminding listeners that La Posada is a non-profit organization, because it isn't about the dollar, it isn't about dividends, it's about our mission, which is to maximize the well-being of seniors.

For More Information Linda and Megen invite listeners to call 520-648-8131 or visit on the web to arrange a visit to see the La Posada Lifestyle https://LaPosadaGreenValley.org