It’s girl’s week out, since nearly 300 high school girls from across Arizona converged on the University of Arizona campus for the 66rd session of The American Legion Auxiliary premier program, Arizona Girls State. This “unique” opportunity is open to girls completing their junior year of high school that meet the necessary qualifications. This year’s session began June 2-8; attending from Pusch Ridge Christian Academy were: Delaney Halvey and Madeline LaMear; from Canyon Del Oro HS; Melissa Silva and Noelle Smith.

Dribble. Pass. Fake. He puts up the last shot for the scrimmage as the other nine players on the court watch as it drops through the hoop. Five of the players on the court cheer and high five as they celebrate their win. 

Running the 5,000-meter, Pima Community College sophomore Caleb Herrera recently represented his school at nationals in Hutchinson, Kan. where he finished in 15th place.

For many athletes, winning state involves countless hours of hard practice, dedication and training. For Sarah Macdonald, practice is only part of the reason for her cross country and track successes.

The Elks National Foundation’s Most Valuable Student (MVS) Scholarship Program recognizes top students across the country based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, extracurricular activities, and their participation in community services. 

After finishing first in Southern Arizona for the American Legion oratorical contest, Pusch Ridge senior Alex Kate Halvey moved on to the national competition in Indianapolis where she competed for the first place scholarship prize of $18,000.

As softball playoffs approach, a similar picture is emerging from last year as Canyon Del Oro and Ironwood Ridge High School continue to compete for the top spot in Division II play.

You may be surprised to learn that, according to 2010 Census data, there are now as many residents in Oro Valley under the age of 18 as there are over the age of 65. No longer just a retirement community, Oro Valley is now taking a look at its new profile and asking an important question: Are we meeting the needs of all residents?

Having led her team in points and assists from the top of the three-point line, senior Gabrielle Courtney had a reputation for having advanced basketball skills as well as vocal leadership on the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy girls’ basketball team last season. 

The family and friends of Tyler Edmiston are hosting a fundraising event in his honor called "Tyler Edmiston's Kickin' it for Campership Memorial Soccer Games" on April 21 at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy from 3 -8 p.m.

There is no denying that Dr. Del Kyger is a University of Arizona men's basketball fan as posters, newspaper articles and jersey's surround the walls of his orthodontist office. Although that is something he is passionate about, his patients know him best for his quality orthodontic work, his friendly personality and his professional attitude.

Placing in the top 10 in her age group at the USA Track & Fields Nationals competition in past years, freshmen Cayley Hensley, will be a surprising, new threat to competitors as the new track season takes off for high schools in Tucson.

Each year the Classic Car Show and Blues Festival rolls into Oro Valley, attracting thousands of people and bringing the community together, and each year the show presents more and more reasons to attend.

When Marana’s Mally McGarity missed her first 14 shots, it didn’t look like she’d turn into the shooting star of the second half.

Pima County

Marana has struggled all season to find a go-to-scorer to replace superstar Jamee Swan, who graduated in 2012, going on to Colorado University.

It took overtime to do it, but when the final buzzer sounded, the Pusch Ridge Lions had defeated the Canyon Del Oro Dorados for the fourth time this season in girls’ varsity basketball.

Non-stop basketball took place at the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy and Canyon Del Oro gym this past week as high school girls and boys basketball teams played in the Northwest Desert Classic Tournament.

“Operation Prickly Pear” is a school fundraiser that involves the entire Pusch Ridge sixth grade class, students, parents, and teachers, from harvesting the fruit to the production and packaging and sales of the final products.

The Ironwood Ridge Nighthawks boys’ and girls’ swim teams competed in the talent-filled Division I state championship meet on Nov. 2-3 at the Mesa Aquatics Swim Club, and came away with some key performances.