A GUIDE BY TABS
The EVENTS & MORE PAGE: News & Weekend Events
The VILLAGE LIFE PAGE: Fun things to do in Tubac.
The TCC PAGE: The Tubac Community Center Schedule
The NATURE PAGE : The Nature Center's Calendar of Events and more.
The HISTORY PAGE: All Things Local History
The EXPLORE PAGE: Places to explore
The NOTICES PAGE: A Bulletin Board of Notices
INTERVIEWS - Local Leaders Interviews
Join Us for the Best (and Only!) Fireworks Display in Tubac!
Happy 5TH 80TH BIRTHDAY HERB WISDOM !
This year’s fireworks show will be masterfully conducted by Pyrotechnician Kendon Victor, lighting up the skies in honor of a legendary Tubac tradition!Food & Drinks:
• St. Ann’s Knights of Columbus will be grilling up a classic 4th of July menu.
• Wisdom’s Sports & Scholars will be serving up refreshing beverages.Please note: No outside food or drinks allowed at the venue.All food and drink proceeds will benefit St. Ann’s Parish and its Mission. Come hungry and support a great cause!FREE for Tubac, Santa Cruz County & Beyond!Gather your family and friends for an evening of fun, fireworks, and community spirit!
St. Ann’s Park / Herb Wisdom Ball Field, Tubac,
Thursday, July 3, 2025
5:00 - 9:00 PM
Fireworks Show: Dusk, around 7:45
Nogales International file photo by Daisy Zavala Magaña
Elizabeth Gutfahr Sentenced: County Moves Forward After Historic Embezzlement Case
NOGALES, AZ - On June 23, 2025, former Santa Cruz County Treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to multiple felony charges, including the embezzlement of more than $38 million from county accounts. She received 10 years for the combined charges of embezzlement and money laundering and another 5 years for tax evasion. The two terms will be served concurrently, meaning she will serve a total prison term of 10 years. Gutfahr also received three years of probation and has been ordered to pay more than $38 million in restitution.
Following the court proceeding, Gutfahr was immediately taken into federal custody.
According to federal sentencing guidelines, Gutfahr must serve at least 85% of her sentence before she is eligible for release. This means she will serve a minimum of 8.5 years and a maximum of 10 years in custody.
Gutfahr pleaded guilty in November 2024. As part of the plea agreement, she faced maximum penalties of up to 10 years for embezzlement, 20 years for money laundering, and 5 years for tax evasion.
“We would have preferred the maximum sentence to reflect the severity of the crime more accurately and to serve as a stronger deterrent,” the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors said in a statement. “What matters most to us now is recovering the losses on behalf of the people of Santa Cruz County and restoring public trust in our institutions. We remain committed to transparency and accountability moving forward.”
The theft had significant impacts on essential services, including local schools and fire districts. To date, approximately $5 million has been recovered and returned to those entities. The County anticipates recovering a total of $10 to $12 million through asset forfeiture. All recovered funds will be directed toward supporting the affected public services.
The investigation began in April 2024 when Chase Bank flagged 11 suspicious transactions involving county accounts. The County immediately notified the FBI, and Gutfahr’s access to county financial systems was revoked. A civil suit ensued, and a court-appointed receiver was appointed to locate and manage her assets. After the plea agreement was reached later that year, formal sentencing took place on June 23, 2025.
County leadership remains focused on restoring financial integrity and strengthening oversight. The Board has committed to enhancing internal safeguards and ensuring transparency to prevent similar breaches in the future.
The Art of Beauty Salon in Tubac Village
Tubac Weekly's JUNE 2025 *STAR BUSINESS AWARD* for outstanding local business is presented to Donna!
Donna gets rave reviews for her cuts and color. An extremely talented Stylist with years of professional experience. We honor Donna and her Salon, THE ART OF BEAUTY with a relaxing and pampering chemical free pool & jacuzzi pass, a gift from the SOULISTIC HEALING CENTER in Tubac Village.
The Art of Beauty
12 B Tubac Rd, Tubac Village
Phone (520) 661-4054
Vitally Important Public Information on Possible Land Use
written by Craig Childs, June 18 2025
If the bill that includes putting public lands up for sale passes, it will apply to lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. It would require that within 5 years between .5% - .75% of areas managed by those agencies be sold, amounting to 3 million acres. Another approximate 250 million acres would be eligible for sale but not required.
Many maps will start popping up showing what this might mean, but we won’t know until parcels are put on the market, which could happen any time and without public input. We only know what would be eligible. Ninety percent of proceeds from sales are meant to offset tax cuts and fund the federal government. Parcels that are sold are to be “used solely for the development of housing or to address associated infrastructure to support local housing needs.” There is no language for affordable housing and the parcels could be used for the luxury homes and ranches, vacation rentals, and/or subdivisions. A ten-year limit to the housing requirement means parcels could be opened for any number of private uses down the road.States where land would be eligible for sale are: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Montana was left out likely because Ryan Zinke fought back and the Feds apparently don't want to piss off Montana. The Getches-Wilkinson Center at the University of Colorado Law School put together an excellent white paper assessment of the Senate proposal, which appears likely to pass unless action happens.
A link to the paper is on the top - right . I’ll also include the link to a map of eligible lands. Lands that cannot be sold include: National Monuments, National Recreation Areas, component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, parts of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System; parts of the National Trails System, National Conservation Areas; parts of National Wildlife Refuge System, parts of the National Fish Hatchery System, parts of the National Park System, National Preserves, National Seashores or National Lakeshores, National Historic Sites, National Memorials, National Battlefields or Military Parks, and National Historic Parks. Lands that can be sold include Wilderness Study Areas, Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, Inventoried Roadless Areas, and lands in general billed as public.
Come see what all the red, white, and blue is about !
SOULISTIC HEALING CENTER IN TUBAC VILLAGE
UNWIND & REJUVINATE RIGHT IN THE VILLAGE
Relax, Breathe, Rebalance, Re-energize, and Explore the “Art of Living” at this tranquil refuge offering therapeutic copper-ionized pools and a variety of stress-reducing modalities including massage, reflexology, craniosacral therapy, FlowPresso 3-in-1 lymphatics and deep sensory treatment, watsu (aqua shitasu), Hydro-Pilates classes, and sound therapy for a holistic integration of the body, mind, and spirit. This destination health resort spa features Arizona’s only copper-ionized chlorine- and chemical-free therapeutic hot and cold jacuzzi tubs, heated lap pool, and infrared sauna.
Call (520) 398-3970 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Located at 20 Calle Iglesia in Tubac Village.
OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY - CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION
- Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Sat - by appointment (please call to schedule)
We offer an intuitive blend of massage techniques tailored specifically to your needs that can focus on:
- relaxation
- therapeutic conditions and recovery
- neuromuscular therapy
- fascial and trigger point release
- pre- and post-natal massage
- infant massage
- tension and stress management and reduction
- athletic/sports maintenance
$90
60 Minutes
Deep Tissue - $110
$140
90 Minutes
Deep Tissue - $160Massage & Reflexology Combo - $155
+ $10
CBD Massage
Add CBD as an add-on experience to your massage.
Local Nogales movie theatre has $5.00 Senior Special !
Check their website below to see what's playing this week.
Oasis Cinema 9 240 W Roper Rd Nogales, AZ
Turn LEFT on ROPER RD. before the NOGALES Home Depot Store Lot - follow the road to the Oasis Theatre. Clean and beautiful !
John Fanning: Santa Cruz County's New Supervisor
Bio: John Fanning
John is the proud husband of 31 years to Susie, dad to Aaron (Cristy), Sean (Vero), and Cade, and “Pops” to his grandson Luca John.
John was born in Aurora, Illinois and spent the first 14 years of his life in Sandwich, Illinois. In the summer of 1979 John, his 3 brothers and the two heroes in his life, his mom and dad, moved to Green Valley, Arizona, where he attended Sahuarita High School.
After high school, John attended Pima Community College for 2 years, followed by Northern Arizona University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education, and Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.
John worked the majority of his career in Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District No. 35 in many different positions. He has been an elementary and middle school Physical Education teacher, middle school and high school coach, Athletic Director, Assistant / Associate Principal and Principal, and recently, after 35.5 years retired as the District Outreach Coordinator. His love for children’s well-being and love for sports made it an easy career decision.
Being an educator and parent for the past 35.5 years in Santa Cruz County has given him insight into what an incredible community that we live in. The children and families of SCC deserve the best, and John has made it his life’s mission to make decisions based on that fact.
John is proud of his past accomplishments which include: 2024 Az19 Most Influential People Award, 23-year blood donor, RRHS 2004 Basketball State Champions Head Coach, SCVUSD No. 35 & NASSP / MetLife Principal of the Year, ASA Middle Level President, and Sahuarita Athletic Hall of Fame.
John is committed to supporting education, preserving our county’s character, building trust in county government through increased transparency, increasing recreational opportunities, and representing District 3 and all of beautiful, Santa Cruz County.
Read the full Interview with John Fanning & more Local Leaders.
THE HISTORIC VALLE VERDE RANCH
The Hidden Gem of Tubac
The Historic Valle Verde Ranch offers a unique blend of history and nature for travelers seeking a peaceful escape. Built in 1938, this beautifully preserved adobe ranch is surrounded by the modern-day Tubac Barrio, yet retains its old-world charm on six serene acres.
The Ranch features three individual guest units, plus the original three bedroom, adobe house, all filled with character and echoes of the past. Whether you're an artist, historian, or avid birder, the private four-acre mesquite bosque (forest) provides the perfect place to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Wander through the property, and you'll find yourself at the historic Anza Trail, where you can choose your own adventure -- head North to Tubac Village and the Presidio State Park or head South to the Tumacacori National Historic Park and Mission, built in 1681, a scenic three mile hike along the Santa Cruz River.
For bird lovers, Valle Verde Ranch is recognized by the Tucson Audubon Society as a "cardinal level" premium birding habitat, making it a prime spot to observe both resident and migrating birds, along with other Arizona wildlife. It's a hidden gem for those who love a mix of history, nature, and wildlife."
(520) 697-6314
Travel to its edge and you will be greeted by the historic Anza Trail that runs directly to Tubac or Tumacacori, your choice!
Kris’ Total Fitness is here to GET YOU FIT !
call or text # (520) 784-3982
Kris’ Total Fitness is here to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. His gym is located in the heart of Tubac and offers the best gym equipment. Certified Personal Instructors are available so you can have a tailored 'One on One 'workout session to coach you on your fitness journey, help you improve your balance, bone density, and quality of life. Your health is your wealth.
Come on down and see how we can make this year the most fit year of your life!
Located in Tubac Village across from Tubac Arts & Gifts
Cactus Heating & Cooling (520) 398-2082
LOCATED IN TUMACACORI - TUBAC'S MOST TRUSTED COMPANY !
As a family-owned and operated business, we understand the value of an honest, trustworthy company. We pride ourselves in being that and so much more. Our goal is to build life-long friendships around our incredible, one-of-a-kind service, one call at a time. Let us know how we can make your life a little easier!
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE
LOCALLY OWNED WITH 38 YEARS EXPERIENCE
TUBAC DENTAL - ALEX FOOR, DMD
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
General Dentistry, Dental Cleanings, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry
~All in Tubac Village~
In addition we offer these specialities:
Cosmetic ~ Functional Botox
Sleep Apnea & Snoring Solutions
Healthier teeth~ healthier life !
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
Check out our Google Reviews & Social Media pages to see what people have to say !
Out of network PPO Provider on most Insurance plans.
Financing available with: CARE CREDIT
Alex Foor, DMD
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5- Mon-Thurs
Alex Foor, DMD
Dr. Alex Foor earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona
& his dental degree at
Boston University, Cum Laude.
He has completed a 10-week training course at a cosmetic practice in Hawaii.
Tubac Secret Garden Inn -(520) 633-6861
Tubac Secret Garden Inn is located in Old Town Tubac near the Presidio historic park, and is close enough to visit the galleries, shops, and fine restaurants by foot, and just far enough to be free of the traffic for a charming respite. Our beautiful property offers cozy rooms for rest and renewal! Enclosed for privacy and security, this magical and intimate garden setting is the best spot in town. Guests are offered discounted use of the Soulistic Healing Center's therapeutic copper-ionized heated lap pool, jacuzzi tubs, and infrared sauna.
Located at 13 Placita De Anza in Tubac Village. Call for a reservation : (520) 633-6861
Rocky at BENEDICT LOCK SERVICE
Rocky and Jennifer Benedict first moved to Green Valley, AZ from Vermont in 2004. Jennifer's health required a drier climate, so they set up their locksmith business in Green Valley. Rocky's Dad soon followed, who is also an experienced locksmith. Collectively, they have over 80 years of experience in lock services.
TELEPHONE (520) 481-5801
SERVING TUBAC with PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
LOCKS REKEYED HOME LOCKOUTS REASONABLE RATES
Loving Springs Farms Landscape Service (520)-860-0373
WHAT INSPIRES US? The wonders and beauty of the Sonoran Desert Region which hosts a unique and biodiverse landscape as well as the culturally rich architectural & agricultural history of the Southwest which finds form in our fine craftsmanship. We are family owned and managed business since 1983 that specializing in Landscaping Architecture, Hardscape, Irrigation & General Contacting including drainage and Grading.
Serving Tubac & Surrounding areas
Coogan & Martin, P.C. Attorneys
Coogan & Martin, P.C., specializes in a range of legal services including business planning and formation, wills & trusts, international and domestic agricultural transactions and litigation, and commercial real estate transactions.
TELEPHONE ( 520 )-287-2110
24 Tubac Rd, Tubac, AZ 85646
GARY BRASHER of RUSS LYON SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALITY
Discuss your real estate needs for buying, selling, leasing, or just exploring the territory.
I am a 5th generation native Arizonan and have been in the real estate business for over 40 years. I began my career with Russ Lyon Real Estate in the early 1980s and then spent 25 years as the President of Brasher Real Estate in Tubac. During my time in Tubac I have been a principal and partner in developing and building over 400 homes as well as one of the managing partners of the Barrio de Tubac, a master planned development in the community. Eight years ago I rejoined Russ Lyon/Sotheby’s International Realty and am excited to be back as a part of the RLSIR team!
My wife Tracey and I are blessed to have 4 daughters and six grandchildren all living here in Southern Arizona! All 4 grandchildren are in the Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District so, in addition to work, we are constantly on the move from one event to another whether it be sports, dance, or academic activities. Tracey and I are partners in life and in our real estate business and love working with one of our daughters, Sea Anna, who serves as the administrator and sales agent in our firm.
As a local businessman I feel it is important to also serve my community through volunteer and charitable work and have served as the past President of the Tubac Chamber of Commerce and the Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council, Co-Chair of the Real Estate Committee of the Arizona/Mexico Commission. I have been appointed by the Governor to the Groundwater Advisory Board for the Santa Cruz Active Management Area. I also serve on the Board of Directors of the Carondolet Holy Cross Hospital in Nogales and beginning in January of 2025 will be a member of the Board of Directors for the Tubac Fire District. In addition I have volunteered extensively for a variety of faith based organizations which serve Santa Cruz County and greater Arizona.
As a Realtor/ Broker and Developer for over 40 years I have learned the community in which I serve from top to bottom and would be happy to put my expertise and knowledge of the market to work on your behalf in finding that special home, ranch, farm or development property in the Santa Cruz Valley and the I-19 corridor.
Take a look at our WEBSITE below. We have many different types of homes currently on the market. If you are considering selling or leasing your home, call us for a free estimate.