Community Podcasts

In this interview, Sahuarita Mayor Tom Murphy and Public Information Officer Ramon Armenta discuss the Town’s direction following strong voter approval of the updated 10-year general plan and the election of both returning and new members to the Town Council. They outline how the leadership team intends to build on that momentum to guide Sahuarita’s growth over the next decade. The conversation covers several key areas: coordination with regional utility providers on major infrastructure projects, including the approved Tucson Electric Power line, to support grid reliability while protecting resident interests; ongoing efforts to attract commercial development and support local entrepreneurs to keep the economy vibrant and resilient; and how the Town is working to keep residents informed, secure, and engaged in civic life amid elections and public safety initiatives. Murphy and Armenta also highlight recent community successes, including the Sahuarita Regional Library’s national recognition in the ELEV8 Design Awards and the strong response to the Town’s annual photography competition, noting how these cultural milestones contribute to quality of life in Sahuarita.

Every animal deserves a second chance, and The Animal League of Green Valley (TALGV) is making that possible every day!

KGVY host Guy Atchley welcomes Kim Eisele, President and CEO of The Animal League of Green Valley, for a heartwarming conversation about the organization's mission to rescue, care for, and find loving forever homes for dogs and cats throughout Southern Arizona.

Kim shares some remarkable rescue stories, including a dog discovered with a gunshot injury who eventually found a loving home, and Red, a dog who disappeared after adoption only to return to the shelter on her own a month later!

The conversation also explores TALGV's no-kill philosophy, the dedication of more than 400 volunteers, the benefits of adopting senior pets, and how the organization's Attic Thrift Store helps support animal care. Kim also discusses plans to create new isolation facilities to protect vulnerable animals.

Whether you're considering adopting, volunteering, fostering, or simply supporting a wonderful local organization, discover how The Animal League of Green Valley is changing lives, one paw at a time.

Learn more: www.talgv.com

Finding Connection During the Holidays: Supporting Older Adults Through Isolation Approx. 15 minutes | November 2026
Host: Guy Atchley  |  Guest: Julie Hansen, Sales Director
Vista Pointe at Green Valley Welcome and introduce the topic GUY: The holidays are often described as joyful, but for many older adults, this time of year can also bring loneliness, grief, and change. Today we’re talking about how families can recognize those feelings and how connection—including the support available in a senior living community—can make a difference. Joining me is Julie Hansen, Sales Director at Vista Pointe at Green Valley. Julie, welcome.   JULIE: Thank you, Guy. I’m glad we’re having this conversation. The holidays can hold wonderful memories, but they can also highlight who is missing, changes in health or mobility, or the fact that family traditions look different now. The most helpful starting point is to listen and remember that each older adult’s experience is unique.  Why the holidays can feel difficult GUY: Why might the holiday season be especially hard for some seniors?   JULIE: There are several reasons. Someone may be grieving a spouse, sibling, friend, or another loved one. Family members may live far away or have demanding schedules. Driving at night, getting around safely, or managing winter weather can make gatherings harder. And when familiar traditions change, a person can feel the loss of a role or routine. The season’s emphasis on togetherness can make being alone feel even more noticeable.   GUY: What are some signs that an older loved one may be struggling?   JULIE: Families may notice that a loved one is withdrawing from calls or activities, seems persistently sad or anxious, has lost interest in things they used to enjoy, or is eating or sleeping differently. One sign by itself doesn’t tell the whole story, and grief can come in waves. Approach with curiosity rather than judgment: ‘I’ve missed talking with you. How have you been feeling lately?’ 3:10–5:10 | Practical ways families and neighbors can help GUY: What can listeners do if an older adult is spending much of the holiday season alone? JULIE: Make connection specific and predictable. Instead of ‘We should get together sometime,’ try ‘Can I call you Tuesday at six?’ or ‘Would you like me to bring lunch Saturday?’ Include them in traditions in ways that feel manageable—sharing a favorite recipe, looking at photographs, decorating together, attending a service or concert, or joining a short visit. Ask what they would actually enjoy; not everyone wants a busy celebration.   GUY: What if family can’t be physically present?   JULIE: Short, regular check-ins can mean a great deal. A phone call, video chat, voice message, mailed card, or coordinated visits among relatives and neighbors can create a rhythm. Help with practical barriers too—transportation, hearing or vision needs, technology, meal access, or making a home safer. And please don’t make promises you can’t keep. A dependable 10-minute call may be more comforting than a big plan that falls through.  How senior living can reduce isolation GUY: How can living in a senior living community benefit older adults who are facing isolation?   JULIE: A community can make everyday connection easier. Residents have chances to share meals, meet neighbors, participate in activities, enjoy music or celebrations, and build relationships with staff and other residents. There can also be more structure to the day and fewer logistical hurdles to joining in. For someone who has been eating alone or going days without conversation, those small, regular interactions can be meaningful. GUY: Does that mean a community is the right answer for every senior who feels lonely?   JULIE: Not automatically. Some people thrive at home with the right supports, social opportunities, transportation, and regular contact. Others may welcome the companionship and services a community offers. It’s important to visit, ask questions, and consider personal preferences, care needs, costs, and the culture of the community. Moving is a major decision, and it should be made with the older adult—not simply for them whenever they can participate. What the holidays may look like in community GUY: What can a resident expect during the holidays at a community like Vista Pointe at Green Valley?   JULIE: The goal is to offer welcoming opportunities, not pressure. Seasonal meals, decorations, music, group activities, and time together can help people create new traditions while honoring old ones. We want residents to feel included whether they’re outgoing, quiet, celebrating a particular holiday, or simply treating it as an ordinary day. A familiar song, favorite food, or chance to tell a story can open a door to connection.   GUY: How do you help someone who has recently moved in and may be missing home?   JULIE: We start by getting to know the person—their interests, routines, important relationships, and what feels comforting. We can invite them to an activity or meal, introduce them to someone with shared interests, and give them time to settle in. Families can bring meaningful photos or familiar items and maintain their usual calls. It’s normal for adjustment to take time; we don’t expect someone to feel at home overnight. Food, routine, and social connection GUY: We’ve talked about companionship. What role do meals and routines play?   JULIE: Meals can be about much more than food. Sharing a table may encourage conversation and create a daily point of connection. Regular routines can also make the day feel more grounded. Good nutrition matters at every age, and appetite, hydration, medication effects, dental concerns, and health conditions can all affect eating. If someone has persistent appetite changes, unintentional weight loss, swallowing concerns, or signs of dehydration, it’s worth speaking with a healthcare professional. GUY: Any simple ideas for listeners who want to make a holiday meal more welcoming?   JULIE: Keep it comfortable and flexible. Offer a quieter spot, manageable portions, foods the person enjoys and can safely eat, and enough time. Invite them to help in a way that suits them—setting napkins, choosing music, or sharing a recipe. The goal is inclusion, not making someone feel tested or overwhelmed.  Grief, caregiver stress, and asking for help GUY: What would you say to someone whose first holiday comes after losing a spouse or close loved one?   JULIE: There is no single right way to grieve. Let them talk about the person if they want to. Ask whether they’d like to keep a tradition, change it, or skip it this year. Avoid trying to cheer them up or insisting they join every activity. Sometimes the kindest support is sitting together and acknowledging, ‘I know this is different, and I’m here.’ If sadness becomes overwhelming or continues to interfere with daily life, encourage them to talk with a healthcare provider or grief counselor.   GUY: Caregivers can feel stretched thin during the holidays, too. What should they remember?   JULIE: Caregivers need support as well. It’s okay to simplify plans, share tasks, accept help, and set realistic expectations. If care needs are becoming difficult to manage safely, explore options early—respite, in-home support, adult day programs, or senior living—rather than waiting for a crisis. Asking for help is a responsible step, not a failure.  A practical holiday connection plan GUY: Can you give families a simple plan they can start this week?   JULIE: Absolutely. First, ask the older adult what would make the season feel good—or less difficult. Second, schedule a few dependable check-ins or visits. Third, choose one meaningful activity that fits their energy and interests. Fourth, look for barriers such as transportation, hearing, mobility, or meal access and address one at a time. And fifth, check in afterward: ‘How did that feel? Would you like to do it again?’ Small, consistent efforts add up.  Closing GUY: Amy, thank you for helping us think about the holidays with compassion and practical ideas.   JULIE: Thank you, Guy. I’d leave listeners with this: connection doesn’t have to be elaborate. A visit, a shared meal, a familiar story, or a reliable phone call can remind someone they matter. And if you or a loved one is feeling isolated, reach out—to family, neighbors, local aging services, a healthcare provider, or a senior living community to learn what support may fit.   GUY: That’s Julie Hansen, Sales Director at Vista Pointe at Green Valley. Thanks for joining us on KGVY, and may we all make a little more room for connection this holiday season.

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In a recent radio interview, Gospel Rescue Mission CEO Lisa Chastain and Communications Director Bruce Beikman highlighted two important ways the Tucson community can support the Mission’s work this season. Arizona Charitable Tax Credit
Gospel Rescue Mission qualifies for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit, allowing taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state taxes on a dollar-for-dollar basis. For the 2026 tax year, individuals can give up to $506 and married couples filing jointly up to $1,009 and receive a full credit against their Arizona state tax liability. Learn more and donate at grmtucson.com/taxcredit. Thanksgiving Blessings 2026
The Mission’s annual Thanksgiving Blessings event will take place on Wednesday, November 25, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the H.S. Lopez Family Foundation Center of Opportunity, 4550 S. Palo Verde Road, Tucson. This marks the 38th year of the long-standing tradition (the 2025 event was the 37th). The day is designed to offer more than a meal—it provides dignity, community, and hope for men, women, and families facing homelessness or hardship. Guests can expect a traditional Thanksgiving meal, family-friendly activities, live music, and a range of supportive services including clothing, hygiene items, haircuts, showers, resource tables, and connections to longer-term help. The atmosphere is intentionally welcoming and festive so that people who may be alone or struggling can feel seen, valued, and part of a caring community for a few hours. Last year’s event served 3,651 total meals (2,458 sit-down and 1,193 to-go) with the help of 669 volunteers. The Mission anticipates a similarly large turnout in 2026 and is preparing to serve thousands again. Sit-down vs. to-go

• Sit-down: Guests are welcomed into a large tent or dining area for a multi-course Thanksgiving meal served at tables, creating an opportunity to sit, talk, and experience community.
• To-go: A drive-through or pickup option provides hot meals for those who prefer or need to take food with them, ensuring no one is turned away.

Chastain and Beikman emphasized that Thanksgiving Blessings is a gateway to the Mission’s year-round work of hope, shelter, and transformation at the Center of Opportunity, and they encouraged the community to volunteer, donate food or funds, and help make the 38th annual event a success.

What does it take to start a business in Green Valley or Sahuarita, and how can the local Chamber of Commerce help you succeed?

On this week's In The Know, host Andy Taylor welcomes Randy Graf, President and CEO of the Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce, and Luke Smith, Director of Business Development, for a conversation about supporting local businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and strengthening connections throughout the community.

Randy and Luke discuss the resources available to new and established business owners, the benefits of Chamber membership, and why shopping locally makes such a difference. Luke also shares his background in the community and his goals for helping businesses grow.

The conversation highlights the Chamber's Elevate SGV Leadership Program, which is helping develop future community leaders, along with several new Chamber members and recent networking successes.

Looking ahead, Randy previews the 2027 Business Expo and Taste of the Valley, happening Saturday, January 16th, at Desert Diamond Casino. This popular event brings together local businesses, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, and residents for networking, discovery, and delicious food samples.

Whether you're considering starting a business, looking to grow an existing one, or simply want to support the local economy, this episode offers valuable information about the opportunities available right here in Green Valley and Sahuarita.

Learn more at GreenValleySahuarita.com.

Shoestring Players Board Members Preview “George Washington’s Teeth” and Share Why Community Theater Matters Marie Valade (actress, playing Edie) and Kara Reynolds (producer) of the Santa Cruz Shoestring Players joined a recent radio interview to promote their upcoming production of George Washington’s Teeth by Mark St. Germain. Both serve on the company’s Board of Directors and are deeply involved onstage and behind the scenes. The show runs at the Community Performance & Art Center (CPAC) in Green Valley. A Quirky Comedy with Heart George Washington’s Teeth follows the determined women of the struggling New Bunion Historical Society in a sleepy New England town. With their lease running out and attendance dwindling, they scramble for creative ways to attract members and visitors. When a set of George Washington’s dentures surfaces in the hands of an unexpected rival, the situation spirals into an all-out comic battle. The play is a farce full of laughs, plot twists, and eccentric characters, yet it also explores history, identity, legacy, and the idea that differences can strengthen rather than divide a community. It even debunks the popular myth that Washington’s dentures were made of wood. Valade and Reynolds encouraged listeners to come for the humor, the strong ensemble acting, and the surprisingly heartfelt moments. Directed by Susan Voorhees, the production opens Thursday, October 29, 2026, with performances through November 8 at CPAC (1250 Continental Road, Green Valley). Behind the Scenes: Producing and Crewing Reynolds explained that producing a community theater show involves coordinating volunteers, managing the budget, scheduling, publicity, and ensuring the artistic vision comes together on a shoestring. It’s a hands-on role that supports everyone from the director to the cast and tech crew. They emphasized that almost anyone can join a Shoestring Players crew. Opportunities exist in set construction, costumes, props, lighting, sound, stage management, and more. No prior experience is required—volunteers are trained and welcomed, reflecting the group’s open, inclusive approach. Developing Edie and Favorite Moments Valade described her character, Edie, as one of the more colorful members of the historical society—someone who brings comic energy and unexpected personality to the group. She developed the role through script work, character backstory, and collaboration with the director and cast during rehearsals. Both women highlighted favorite scenes involving the escalating rivalry over the dentures and the absurd lengths the society members go to in order to save their museum, moments that balance broad comedy with genuine emotion. Choosing the Show and Building a Season The Shoestring Players selected George Washington’s Teeth for its blend of accessible humor, strong roles for women, historical flavor, and community appeal. Season planning typically involves reading scripts, balancing comedies, dramas, mysteries, and classics, and considering what will resonate with Green Valley audiences while challenging the company. The 2026–2027 season also includes And Then There Were None, The Nerd, and a Shakespeare adaptation. Why They Give So Much Time As board members who also act and crew, Valade and Reynolds invest heavily because community theater creates connection, creativity, and belonging. It gives people of all ages and experience levels a place to contribute, tell stories, and support local arts. The rewards—shared laughter, new friendships, and seeing a production come alive—far outweigh the hours. How to Get Involved Listeners can audition (open to all levels), volunteer for crews, join the free weekly Shoestring Readers Theatre group, or simply buy a ticket and support the company. Visit santacruzshoestringplayers.org, call (520) 399-1750, or check CPAC’s ticketing site for details and upcoming opportunities. The interview painted a warm picture of dedicated volunteers who love bringing theater to Green Valley—and invited the whole community to join the fun, either in the audience or behind the scenes.

We talk to Stephanie Peterson and Ellen March with Native Gardens of Green Valley.

We talk to Alan Rogers and Diana Madaras with the Rotary Club of Tucson.

In a recent radio interview, Samantha Bassett, MSN, FNP-C, introduced herself to the community as she begins welcoming patients at United Community Health Center’s (UCHC) Continental Family Medical Center in Green Valley. She shared her background, her connection to Southern Arizona, the care she provides, and UCHC’s commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare. Originally from Maryland, Bassett has made Southern Arizona her home. She described what she enjoys most about living and providing care in the region, highlighting the opportunity to serve patients across rural communities. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, she cares for patients of all ages—from children to older adults—offering primary care services and helping manage a wide range of common health concerns. Bassett discussed what sets UCHC apart. As a Federally Qualified Health Center focused on removing barriers to care, UCHC emphasizes quality, compassionate services that are accessible and affordable, especially in the rural areas it serves. Key programs include:

• Free transportation services to eligible medical appointments and referrals
• The Well Woman HealthCheck Program, which provides eligible women with free or low-cost preventive services such as mammograms, Pap tests, and other screenings
• Outreach and Enrollment assistance to help community members understand coverage options, navigate enrollment (including during open enrollment periods), and connect with resources
• A Sliding Fee Discount Program based on household income and family size, supporting uninsured and underinsured patients

UCHC has been recognized by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for its commitment to quality healthcare and preventive services. Bassett explained why the organization stresses the importance of establishing a relationship with a primary care provider and scheduling routine checkups—even when someone feels healthy—to support long-term wellness and early detection. She closed with a message to the community about the care patients can expect when visiting her at Continental Family Medical Center. Listeners were invited to stay connected with UCHC by following its Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages (search “United Community Health Center”) or by visiting www.uchcaz.org for information on providers, services, clinic locations, and upcoming community events. This interview highlighted Bassett’s role in expanding accessible primary care in Green Valley and reinforced UCHC’s mission of delivering quality care in an atmosphere of trust and respect.

We talk to David Bradley with Medicare A to Z in Green Valley.