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Hi Casa Grande, we made it to Thursday! In today’s edition: Hard water shake-up, Ono Hawaiian BBQ opens, a Valentine’s dinner cruise mystery, and more.
— Cait Baker
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📰 In the news
Key takeaways for residents: A Valley water expert reported Maricopa’s water ranks among the nation’s hardest, affecting taste, coffee, and plumbing. Learn what this means for Casa Grande homeowners and systems that can help — learn about local water solutions.
Why transformer demand is surging: ERMCO announced plans to expand transformer manufacturing with a 566,121-square-foot Waddell plant near Phoenix. The project is expected to create over 500 jobs, with operations planned for 2027 — get details on the expansion.
Convenient stop for locals: Ono Hawaiian BBQ has opened in Maricopa, bringing scratch-made island flavors and house-made sauces. Its island-style grand opening celebration took place on January 23, 2026 — get all the details.
Maintaining momentum on major projects: Florence voted to continue its environmental consulting contract, keeping outside expertise on key environmental and utility projects. Officials said the extension supports ongoing work without disrupting progress — see what’s planned for founders.
Gold & silver are hot: Last year was gold’s best year since 1979. Silver did even better, climbing nearly 150%… and analysts expect the momentum to continue. If you’re curious about adding precious metals to your IRA or portfolio as a market hedge, American Hartford has a helpful guide that covers everything you need to know. It’s free — and definitely worth a read.
Compare rates for free: Insurance prices drop all the time, but you’ll only know if you check. I assumed my rate was fine until I compared options and realized I was leaving real money on the table. It took a minute to check and instantly showed better offers for where I live. If it’s been more than a few months, you should probably run this comparison tool here.
One pet emergency can easily cost $7,000+ but pet insurance helps ease the financial and emotional burden. It’s something I wish I’d had after spending $10k on last-minute surgery for my cat (her name is Miss Stache). I learned my lesson and signed up for Spot. It’s super affordable and reimburses up to 90% of the bill.
*We do our best to avoid paywalled articles. If any slip through, let me know which ones and I’ll permanently remove them from our source list!
Highlights this week:
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🫶 We got your back
Districtwide improvements take shape: Arizona Rep Juan Ciscomani secured more than $22 million in House-passed funding for eight projects. Locally, $1.8 million is slated for workforce housing in Casa Grande Union High School District, plus $1 million each for Eloy’s Frontier Street and a Casa Grande Elementary community center. Senate approval is still needed. See the full project list.
Maricopa revisits founders tribute: Corazon de Latinos Unidos recently honored outstanding community leaders for their service. The celebration has already taken place, recognizing neighbors who go above and beyond across Pinal County. It is a reminder of the everyday work strengthening Casa Grande and nearby communities. See what’s being considered.
Treasure hunt, upgraded: Valley Humane Society’s BowWow Meow Thrift and Consignments packs furniture, home goods, collectibles, and quirky finds into a bright, bigger shop in Historic Downtown Casa Grande. Expect a quick treasure hunt, plus a feel-good declutter drop-off when your closet gets judgy.
Neighborhood sushi standby: Since 1999, Lucky Sushi & Chinese Restaurant has been Casa Grande’s easygoing go-to, with a sushi bar rolling since 2005 and comforting Chinese classics alongside. When cooking feels optional, this neighborhood spot makes dinner simple, serving fresh rolls and familiar favorites that satisfy local cravings.
A smart way to save on big purchases: When costs hit the tens of thousands, credit card and personal loan interest racks up fast. A HELOC lets you tap into your home’s equity as a flexible line of credit at a lower rate… all without refinancing your mortgage. I’ve been looking into this myself, and Figure’s HELOC stood out for its 100% online application, no in-person appraisal, and quick access to cash.
Your neighbors are Googling you:It’s an uncomfortable thought, but people search names all the time — employers, new friends, other parents at school pickup. If something negative, outdated, or misleading shows up on the first page, it can shape how people see you before you ever meet. BetterReputation helps push down unwanted search results so the first impression you make actually reflects who you are today. And if it’s not your name, you can help a friend or family member with that too.
Get clarity on financial decisions: Managing retirement, taxes, and investments alone can feel overwhelming, especially during big life transitions. Financial advisors provide holistic guidance, help reduce risk, and keep emotions away from costly decisions. I found a tool called Unbiased that matches you with the right financial advisor based on your personal situation so you can get a second opinion… it never hurts.
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📆 Around town this weekend
Have an event to share? BaseLocal Verified Businesses can submit them for free! Learn more about how to submit an event here →
All events are subject to change without notice. Always check official event pages for the most up to date information.
🥞 Pancake breakfast fundraiser @ Maricopa Veterans Center | Saturday (2/7) at 7:30 AM – If you’ve been looking for a guilt-free excuse to eat a short stack, the Veterans Center is flipping pancakes for a cause Saturday morning. Bring your appetite, a neighbor, and a few bucks for the donation jar, then linger for the coffee and community.
🏈 Super Bowl Saturday @ Copper Sky Regional Park | Saturday (2/7) at 8:00 AM – Super Bowl Saturday in Maricopa means youth baseball all day, one day, 8U through 13U, Valley competition, and that Super Bowl buzz, minus commercials. Last year 25 teams packed the park, this year is bigger, faster, louder. Coaches, register, parents, pack snacks, patience, and pep.
💉 Off-Site Vaccine Clinic @ Eloy City Hall | Saturday (2/7) at 8:00 AM – Early Saturday errands call for a quick pet tune-up. Swing by the off-site vaccine clinic for rabies at $10, Bordetella $15, microchips $20, and free parvo and cat combos thanks to Petco Love. Cash or check preferred, leashes required, and spicy pets accommodated.
📚 Mini Book Sale @ Friends of the Maricopa Public Library | Saturday (2/7) at 9:00 AM – If your shelves need new friends and your brain wants a workout, swing by the Maricopa Library for the Friends’ mini sale. Hardcovers are two bucks, paperbacks a dollar, and there are puzzles galore, perfect for that Valentine who prefers quiet, and corners.
🍖 4-H BBQ @ University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center | Saturday (2/7) at 11:00 AM – Take a break from adulting and swing by the Trailblazers 4-H BBQ for pulled pork, beans, slaw, dessert, and a petting zoo that out-charms your HOA. Ten bucks a plate, a silent auction, and you can donate if you can’t attend, all supporting 4-H youth.
🐢 Jack Rabbit and the Desert Tortoise @ Central Arizona College | Saturday (2/7) at 2:00 PM – Great AZ Puppets is rolling out Jack Rabbit and the Desert Tortoise, a puppet twist on Aesop set in the Sonoran Desert where patience actually wins. Bring the grandkids, enjoy the historic theater, and bask in affordable whimsy. Tickets are $7.50.
🌙 Night Market – Valentine’s Edition @ Lowe’s Home Improvement | Saturday (2/7) at 5:00 PM – This Valentine’s edition night market brings live music, food trucks, and local vendors, plus a kids zone with unlimited fun for 12 bucks. Snap a photo, build a bouquet at the Bloom Bar, and feel smug about free entry while donations support a Maricopa nonprofit.
Wanna see more? Browse our full events calendar →
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📻 Casa Grande report
Weather forecast
Today – High: 77°F – Low: 49°F – Precip: 1%
Mostly sunny, with a high near 77. East wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Later: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 49. East southeast wind around 5 mph.
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Tomorrow – High: 79°F – Low: 49°F – Precip: 2%
Sunny, with a high near 79. Southwest wind around 5 mph. Later: Mostly clear, with a low around 49. South southwest wind around 5 mph.
This house is wild
Set on the Mission Royale Golf Course, this Model 104 showcases serene views, vaulted ceilings. A granite kitchen with breakfast bar and undermount sink complements living areas. The primary suite has dual sinks and a walk-in closet. A fenced yard features an extended paver patio with fans and pull-down sunshades, conveyed outdoor furniture, plus clubhouse, fitness center, and pools.
Take a peek inside →
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🔥 Worth a peek
We’re always on the hunt for useful resources, deals, services, and products we genuinely think you’ll love. Here’s what caught our eye this week:
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