According to the Sonoita-Elgin Fire District the fire is now under Bureau of Land Management command Its estimated size is 50 acres and forward progress has been stopped Multiple state and federal agencies are on the scene The cause of the fire is under investigation Units from the Sonoita-Elgin Fire District are on the scene at a large brush fire in the area of Highway 83 and Empire Ranch Road according to a social media post from the district The post is asking the public to avoid the area Report a typo citizen remains in critical condition after a rollover crash while attempting to evade U.S Border Patrol agents on Saturday near Sonoita The incident began when Border Patrol agents using surveillance equipment observed a white Nissan Rogue traveling north from the U.S.-Mexico border near Parker Canyon Lake around 3 p.m Agents believed the small SUV was "suspicious" and agents with the Sonoita station later spotted the vehicle on State Route 83 Customs and Border Protection — Border Patrol's parent agency. Parker Canyon Lake is about 6 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border and three people ran into the surrounding high desert The driver continued northbound on State Route 83 "racing past additional Sonoita Station agents parked farther along the highway," he added. The agents activated their lights and sirens in an attempt to stop the SUV but the driver continued for about 4 miles before crashing at State Route 83 and Cimmaron Road near Sonoita where the road sharply curves to the left. Agents said they saw a "large dust cloud" and they found the Nissan "rolled onto its side and the driver unconscious outside it." "The agents immediately called for emergency medical services and carefully moved the driver a safe distance from the Rogue in case it caught fire," Mennell wrote "Due to the driver’s critical injuries arriving emergency medical technicians called for a life flight The driver was then flown to a local area hospital for medical care." Border Patrol agents took three people into custody during the incident including two people from Guatemala and one from Mexico without authorization and will face charges for illegal reentry into the United States. The driver faces charges for alien smuggling CBP has faced rising criticism for pursuits that led to fatal crashes As the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico said in 2023 "the United States’ border region has always borne the brunt of our most aggressive immigration enforcement efforts including dangerous high-speed vehicle pursuits by Border Patrol agents that far too often end in serious injuries and deaths." CBP issued a new directive on vehicle pursuits told agents that they may "engage in and continue emergency driving including a vehicle pursuit," so long as they determine "the law enforcement benefit and need for emergency driving outweighs the immediate and potential danger created by such emergency driving." writing that "pursuits pose inherent risks-to members of the public and vehicle occupants" and the new guidelines "acknowledges these risks and shifts" the agency approach to "a risk-based model when it comes to pursuits." "The policy adopts a 'reasonableness' standard that is familiar to a majority of other law enforcement agencies across the UnitedStates," CBP said Agency officials said there could be pursuits that could be terminated or restricted agents and officers would be prohibited from using certain emergency driving tactics "proven unsafe or ineffective." The agency said the new policy does "not prohibit vehicular pursuits," because CBP's "unique border security mission requires that we retain an ability to effectively pursue vehicles." Border Patrol agents instead must consider the "government’s interest" before chasing a vehicle and risks to public safety and the agents themselves. The new policy was meant to reduce the number of fatal crashes and was considered an improvement that brought the agency into alignment with other law enforcement agencies. Agents can engage in vehicular pursuits if necessary and "objectively reasonable" including after a vehicle failed to stop at a checkpoint or port of entry entered the United States at or between a port of entry or failed to yield when an agent attempted to stop them the ACLU of New Mexico questioned how the agency would implementation and enforce the new policy. Last year, Arivaca residents—about 60 miles west of the crash—also questioned agents' decision to chase a Chevy Tahoe which lead to a fatal crash, killing a 70-year-old woman and injuring several others. The agency also shifted how fatal incidents, including crashes, are investigated in 2022. Before the change most incidents were investigated by Border Patrol's own Critical Incident Teams. From 2010 through 2022, the CITs responded to about 900 incidents involving serious injuries or death, according to the Government Accountability Office. owing to sharp criticism about how the teams operated CBP—then under former Tucson Police Chief Chris Magnus—moved such incidents to CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility OPR responded to about 200 critical incidents—about 86 percent involving Border Patrol agents Raúl Grijalva — whose district included Arivaca — called for "comprehensive" investigations into two fatal incidents including a crash that killed two people and injured four others when a pickup truck fled from agents and crashed into a tree during an March 2022 incident near Amado Two people were killed in the crash and were declared dead at the scene and one other man died from his injuries after he was flown to Banner University Medical Center the inspector general for the Department of Homeland Security Grijalva pushed for a review of the fatal incident—as well as a shooting in the Peloncillo Mountains north of Douglas that February. Grijalva wrote that the truck was "run off the road causing it to roll over and eject some of the migrants." Details from Grijalva's account and CBP's diverged with Grijalva writing that two migrants were killed and four sustained life-threatening injuries He added that "the motive for the pursuit and the identities of the migrants and Border Patrol agents involved are unknown." this is not an isolated incident," Grijalva wrote noting that the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas found that deaths resulting from Border Patrol vehicle pursuits rose "dramatically from two in 2019 to twenty-two in 2021." The OIG has yet to release a review of that fatal incident and Cuffari did not include the issue in an overview of "management challenges" at DHS published last November. the Tucson Sentinel publishes our stories without a paywall We believe a healthy community depends on everyone having access to quality independent journalism we're committed to providing real reporting to all Southern Arizona residents A single story can cost us thousands of dollars to report – some take months & months of dogged digging others require paying for tall stacks of records that officials don't want to provide Some mean driving to remote corners of Pima County & some see our reporters sitting through endless government meetings to make sure they get the whole story & not just a quick headline Our award-winning newsroom has some of the best reporters and we're dedicated to getting the story right Our pioneering effort (we were one of the very first local nonprofit news outlets in the entire country) to rebuild local journalism will only work if enough people join our Watchdog Club community of paying members Please join today for as little as $15/month For those who can't afford to contribute right now, please sign up for our free Watchdog Update newsletters & help the spread word about the Sentinel to your friends Your contributions help the Sentinel sustain & grow our nonprofit newsroom & bolster our commitment to delivering the important independent news our community needs to thrive The Tucson Sentinel is published by Tucson Investigative Reporting Center Inc. we're committed to providing real reporting to everyone in Southern Arizona But a single story can cost us thousands of dollars to report – some take months and months of dogged digging and some see our reporters sitting through endless government meetings to make sure they get the whole story and not just a quick headline Our pioneering effort to rebuild local news will only work if enough people join our Watchdog Club community of paying members For those who can't afford to contribute right now, please sign up for one of our free Watchdog Update newsletters and help the spread word about the Sentinel to your friends A smarter Tucson is a better Tucson — and the Sentinel shines a light on this town because we love it Tucson Sentinel's independent nonprofit newsroom is an award-winning journalism pioneer that learns from & informs Southern Arizonans about the community challenges & unique culture of our Borderlands. © 2009-2025 TucsonSentinel.com Tucson Sentinel's independent nonprofit newsroom learns from & informs Southern Arizonans about the community challenges & unique culture of our Borderlands. Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInTUCSON (13 News) - A Sonoita couple lost nearly everything when a fire burned down their home last week and they are looking to the community for help The house was Patty Scarbrough’s dream home where she resided with her partner Ted Swigert for nearly two decades The community she fell in love with is the community she is relying on after a fireplace accident sent smoke throughout the house and I saw an orange glow,” Scarbrough said the house was up in flames and the couple could only wait for fire crews to get there Patagonia and even from Rio Rico came to help it’s almost a numbness for me,” Scarbrough said “I think when you’re in a situation like that Scarbrough and Swigert lost nearly all their belongings Swigert found Duke in the rubble Wednesday night and buried him the next day The inability to find him during the fire is something they say makes this even tougher they had nothing and the reality of what was lost hit them quickly “This is all donated,” Scarbrough said in reference to the clothes she was wearing The couple had been going through the rubble by hand to find what is salvageable But they said it has been a struggle to remember where everything should be even giving them a place to stay and clothes to wear “Our neighbors have been so supportive and just unbelievable,” Swigert said Swigert and Scarbrough are working with their insurance company to try to recover what they can but there are questions about how they will move forward “We have two years to settle as far as the insurance company,” she said They said all they can do is focus on the good If you would like to help the family, you can visit their GoFundMe HERE or use the button below Be sure to subscribe to the 13 News YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@13newskold An official website of the United States government Open Search The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking good homes for wild horses and burros during its private placement event planned for the Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival Wild Horse and Burro personnel will be on site from 9 a.m a collaboration between the BLM and the Arizona Department of Corrections will conduct demonstrations on Saturday at 11:45 a.m There will be an auction for the trained animals on Saturday after the first demonstration. Prices for horses start at $1,000 and $500 for burros, increasing depending on interest. More information about trained animals, including photos and level of training, can be found on BLM Arizona’s Facebook Those interested in a horse or burro being offered at this event can apply online prior to the event through the Online Corral have approved facilities to keep the animal(s) and proper transportation home for the animal(s) from the event site with the new owner’s own halter and lead rope into a BLM-approved trailer provided by the adopter For more information and adoption/purchase qualifications, call the BLM at 1-866-4MUSTANGS (1-866-468-7826) or visit the Florence Off-Range Facility webpage The BLM offers wild horses and burros gathered from public lands in the west to qualified individuals who must demonstrate humane care for the animal Wild horses are known for their sure-footedness these animals can be trained for many uses All animals available have been examined by a veterinarian The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations An official website of the Department of the Interior The AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management says the Vein fire is now 80% contained at 1,291 acres Roughly 70 firefighters spent Sunday working along the fire's edge and ensuring it stays within its footprint The department is asking people to stay out of the fire area which the department says is dangerous for firefighters and delays suppression efforts The AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management has said the fire is now at 1,291 acres and 50% contained Crews were able to keep the fire within its footprint overnight Approximately 80 personnel are assigned to the fire including hand crews but drivers should use caution with emergency vehicles in the area The AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management has said the fire is now at 1000 acres and "still very active." The AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management has announced they are fighting a 500-acre Vein Fire According to a social media post from the department air support is launching and "state overhead" is on the way The Vein Fire near Sonoita was under control as of Sunday morning after it expanded rapidly on Saturday to roughly 1,400 acres from 300 acres according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management The department said the fire "stayed within its footprint overnight and all containment lines held" in a Facebook post on Sunday morning and was burning on 1,291 acres about five miles east of Sonoita and north of State Route 82 The department said the acreage decrease was "due to more accurate mapping," rather than the blaze shrinking in size Sunday morning's Facebook post reported the fire had become less intense than the "very active" blaze of Saturday fire activity could increase and smoke could be visible," the department said Sunday Sunday's update from the fire management department said that about 80 people were fighting the fire "A helicopter is on standby and will be used if needed today," the statement said Traffic on State Route 82 was not affected but the department advised drivers to use caution with emergency vehicles driving along the highway Reporter Sam Kmack covers Tempe, Scottsdale and Chandler. Follow him on X @KmackSam or reach him at sam.kmack@arizonarepublic.com The fast-growing Vein Fire near Sonoita expanded Saturday from 300 acres to roughly 1,400 acres The fire, which was 10% contained by Saturday evening, was about 5 miles east of Sonoita and north of State Route 82, according to the department The fire was "very active" midday as it spread northeast through dry No structures were threatened as of Saturday afternoon and crews were working to keep the fire from moving west toward Sonoita and SR 82 None of the wineries in the area had been impacted by the fire Corrections & Clarifications: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified Rhona MacMillan and Mark Jorve They are the founders of Zarpara Vineyards While southern Arizona is well-known for saguaros and breathtaking desert landscapes, it also features a thriving wine industry Dozens of wineries can be found in the primary winemaking regions Sonoita-Elgin and Willcox — the latter produces 74% of wine grapes grown in Arizona Wineries can also be found in towns like Patagonia The region’s higher altitude and heavy rains The region's rolling hills and majestic mountains make southern Arizona vineyards must-visit spots for any wine enthusiast If you're looking for a new favorite vintage Sonoita and Elgin are the epicenter of southern Arizona wine country Sonoita was the first area in Arizona to earn the American Viticultural Area designation With the area's rolling hills and picturesque landscapes visitors can experience wine tasting with beautiful views Sonoita VineyardsLocated in Elgin, Sonita Vineyards is the oldest commercial vineyard in Arizona With award-winning wines and sustainable water harvesting practices Sonoita Vineyards aims to preserve the area's ecosystem The winery also recycles its bottles and cardboard and composts all wine-making byproducts for use as fertilizer Sonoita Vineyards’ tasting room is large and spacious Visitors can sip on wine while watching winemaking in action On Saturdays from August through September visitors can help harvest and watch the grape-crushing process in person Details: 90 Elgin Canelo Road, Elgin, AZ. (520) 455-5893. www.sonoitavineyards.com Rune Wines is an off-grid Visitors can enjoy the winery’s outdoor tasting room located under a shade canopy and sip on wine while enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and high desert grasslands The winery had its first vintage in 2013 and opened its tasting room in 2015 The tasting menu rotates regularly but typically includes five to six wines including a rosé and a selection of white and red wines and sandwiches to pair with their wine or non-alcoholic beverages The winery also has an artistic flair, producing stories on its labels about each wine. The story unfolds with each vintage, told through an excerpt on the back of the bottle and an original rendering by artist Daniel Helzer on the front. The full narrative for each type of wine can be found on the Rune Wines website Details: 3969 AZ-82, Sonoita. 520-338-8823 www.runewines.com Callaghan Vineyards in Elgin is a pioneer of Arizona winemaking It has been making waves since the mid-1990s and its wines have been served at the White House four times The winery's list of accolades continues to grow. In the azcentral 2024 wine competition Callaghan Vineyards won top honors among Malvasia Bianca wines for its Callaghan Love Muffin White 2022 visitors can choose to sit inside or outside overlooking the vast expanse of rolling greenery Details: 336 Elgin Road, Elgin. 520-455-5322. www.callaghanvineyards.com Dos Cabezas WineWorksWith two farms in southern Arizona’s high desert one in Cochise County and another in Sonoita Dos Cabezas WineWorks offers visitors a range of wines and a wide array of food Serving pizzas and a full menu of food, this is a must-visit winery located 45 minutes southeast of Tucson. The winery won silver in azcentral’s 2024 wine competition for its Águileón 2020 and Pink 2022 wines The winery also offers some of its wines in cans The sparkling wines usually sell out every year Details: 3248 Hwy. 82 / P.O. Box 871, Sonoita. 520-455-5141. www.doscabezas.com. Located in the heart of scenic southern Arizona Flying Leap’s distillery produces grape-based spirits a grape brandy made from the leftovers of winemaking Increased demand led the winery to collaborate with growers and vintners in Mendoza for their Malbec and Chardonnay wines and in Walla Walla Details: 342 Elgin Road, Elgin. (888) 431-5777. www.flyingleapvineyards.com Los Milics Vineyards sits on a 20-acre estate in Elgin surrounded by miles of vineyards and majestic mountains The winery also has 50 acres of vines planted 20 miles east in Elfrida the co-owner of FnB Restaurant in Scottsdale opened the winery’s Elgin tasting room in 2022 The winery also has a tasting room in Old Town Scottsdale Los Milics grows 17 different grape varieties and made the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 for having one of the best tasting rooms in the country The tasting room offers small plates and tapas to pair with Los Milics' wines Los Milics also has nine one-bedroom, one-bathroom casitas on the vineyard, and a restaurant for guests staying in the casitas. Its Rosé wine called Sandra's, named after the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, won the Governor's Cup in the azcentral 2024 wine competition Details: 423 Upper Elgin Road, Elgin. 520- 221-0180. losmilicsvineyards.com. Autumn Sage Vineyards is an award-winning vineyard with a tasting room a park and a patio space for outdoor events The vineyard’s outdoor space boasts a gazebo and a fishing pond where the winery hosts weddings The winery won gold in the azcentral 2024 Arizona Wine Competition for its Albarino 2022 Details: 90 Elgin Road, Elgin. (602) 904-2120. autumnsage.com Arizona Hops and Vines is a woman-owned winery in Sonoita with a popular outdoor space and a petting zoo Visitors can enjoy wine tasting and delicious and interesting food pairings like Cheetos and other small food items Hops and Vines also offers daily sangria and sangria slushies is not complete without making a wish at the wishing barrel Details: 3450 Hwy. 82 Sonoita. 301-237-6556. www.azhopsandvines.com A historic agricultural town with numerous wineries to choose from Willcox in Cochise County has everything from epic hikes and beautiful mountain vistas to relaxing wineries Coronado VineyardsCoronado Vineyards sits about 20 minutes down the Interstate 10 highway from the historic ghost town of Cochise The winery has a spacious tasting room with outdoor seating overlooking its vineyards and the rolling desert landscape It boasts award-winning wine and a sprawling menu of tapas Details: 2909 E. Country Club Drive, Willcox. 520- 766-2993. coronadovineyards.com Zarpara Vineyards is nestled under the Dos Cabezas Mountains Zarapara is located just south of Willcox and offers visitors the chance to stroll through the vineyard and bring along a picnic to pair with its wines The winery also boasts an outdoor terrace and allows walk-ins planted the vineyard’s first vines in 2010 growing the vineyard over the years to more than 5,000 vines Details: 6777 S. Zarpara Lane, Willcox. 520-222-7114. www.zarpara.com Golden Rule Vineyards consists of 26 acres located north of the Dragoon Mountains and grows 11 grape varieties of both French and Italian origin Guests can sample a variety of white and rosé wines One of the winery’s tasting rooms is in a historic former Chevrolet building The building was built in 1946 and is a Willcox landmark The winery also has a tasting room for appointment only located at a farm on the northern end of the Dragoon Mountains Golden Rule offers wine tasting and vineyard and pistachio tours Details: Willcox tasting room: 469 S Haskell Ave, Willcox. 520-766-0001. Vineyard tasting room: 3525 N. Golden Rule Rd. goldenrulevineyards.com. Pillsbury Wine CompanyThe Pillsbury Wine Company produces sustainably farmed vegan wines fermented with wild yeast from the grapes and uses soil fed with organic Gypsum and compost The winery also treats its vines with organic sprays and hand weeds instead of using a machine Employees also mow between the rows instead of using a harrow a machine with spikes or disks to drag through the earth to allow the nutrients to return to the soil Details: 6450 S. Bennett Place, Willcox. 310-508-3348. www.pillsburywine.com/contactus.html. The family-owned and operated Birds and Barrels Vineyards was founded in 2015 and is surrounded by majestic mountain vistas Visitors can stroll through the vineyard and choose a grapevine to adopt The tasting room is open Friday and on weekends and by appointment Monday through Thursday Details: 5000 E. Arzberger Road, Willcox. 520-507-0354. birdsandbarrels.com. Bodega Pierce is a family-owned and operated winery run by two generations of award-winning Pierce family winemakers The vineyard produces wine made from 18 varieties grown on the family’s 80-acre estate The winery is located 15 miles southeast of Willcox Details: 4511 E. Robbs Road, Willcox. 602-320-1722. bodegapierce.com Patagonia is a quaint town known for its biodiversity and location as a migratory corridor for many rare animal species Patagonia has a winery committed to sustainability Queen of Cups offers artisanal, low-intervention wines from grapes grown in Arizona and Sonora. Queen of Cups won Bronze for its 2022 blend of Barbera and Viognier and its 2022 Paziños in the azcentral 2024 wine competition The winery was started by Emmett Rahn-Oakes and Lily Christopher The couple moved back to Patagonia in 2020 By opening the Queen of Cups two years later the pair accomplished their dream of creating a cozy unpretentious space where they could have good wine and be surrounded by good friends Details: 320 Smelter Ave., Patagonia, 85624. 520-300-0815. www.queenofcupswines.com. Although Willcox and Sonoita are well known as epicenters of wine country Pearce should also be a visit on a southern Arizona wine tour The town boasts a handful of can't-miss wineries Its tasting room is located on the vineyard with panoramic views of the Willcox basin and Cochise stronghold. In the 2024 azcentral wine competition the winery won the Growers Cup for the best red wine for its 2021 8 Years Later a red blend consisting of an unconventional mix of Petite Sirah Details: 357 W. Treasure Road, Pearce. 520-329-2950. www.1764vineyards.com Reach the reporter at sarah.lapidus@gannett.com. The Republic’s coverage of southern Arizona is funded, in part, with a grant from Report for America. Support Arizona news coverage with a tax-deductible donation at supportjournalism.azcentral.com. It over looks the trees and the mountains as silence envelops the entire area The chirping birds and the wind's song between the trees are the only sounds that pierce the silence But get closer to the abbey and the sounds of song and prayer fills the air They're from a group of cloistered contemplative nuns which means their way of life centers around prayer and staying at the abbey "Seven times a day we stop our work and pray,” Sister Vicki “We support ourselves here by making altar breads.” But soon their stories will be on the big screen in a new documentary by local filmmaker Vicky Westover called 'Final Vows' not only filming the nuns but gaining their trust and respect "We had to have many months of serious conversations before they were okay with letting us start this," Westover said The documentary will screen at the Fox Theatre The Canelo Cowboy Church’s small community food pantry officially opened Friday in Sonoita The Canelo Cowboy Church in Elgin has opened a small food bank for the community The freestanding pantry is next to the Sonoita Library It is stocked with nonperishable food and will be available every day The food bank will be based on the honor system — people can take what they need and donate food whenever they can The mini food bank will be stocked weekly by the church and will serve as an emergency food source to those in need in the community the church has been collecting food and distributing it to about 100 needy individuals in the community Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter King Yates was ruled incompetent to stand trial in November but jail reports say he's now ready to proceed and represent himself Backers say they have nearly double the required number of signatures needed to get issue on the November ballot Monthly and daily office space now available for rent in the Brings Building Her power had been turned off by APS after she only paid part of her electric bill Scholarship Endowment to support medical students who have financial need as well as the R… Annual July 4th event takes on new theme; play put on by talented students in summer stock program Weekly award for good deeds in the community Tucson will experience yet another day of above-average temperatures today Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device A new documentary about the lives of Cistercian cloistered nuns in Southern Arizona's Santa Rita Abbey will have its state debut at the Fox Theatre on Sunday "Final Vows" was directed by Victoria Westover as well as the co-director of Cinema Tucson It was produced by Susan Slonaker and Sande Zeig Westover and her team spent four and a half years filming at the Santa Rita Abbey which is located in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains she produced a documentary titled "Apache 8," which was released on 2011 and premiered at the National Museum of the American Indian "Final Vows"first premiered at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in February 2024 "I don't even know why I chose nuns for the documentary," Westover said "But I was raised Catholic and I rejected it as a tween But I got educated by nuns and I thought they were so mysterious." Considering Westover's religious upbringing and her rejection of the faith she said she didn't understand "the Call" that led to women taking their vows and habit and beginning a life dedicated to God "That's something that appears in the documentary," Westover said "They talk about 'The Call' and I don't understand the 'Call' this documentary is really about the stories of these women." Cloistered nuns spend their time primarily in the convent More publicly active nuns have jobs outside of the convent and engage with the community differently How a convent is structured is determined by the abbess — the lead nun "I didn't think the documentary would be possible," Westover said "They only agreed to being filmed as long as it was authentic Westover went to the abbey with her cinematographer Jonathan Van Ballenberghe and sound recordist Eren Isabella McGinnis to film for four years and a half The key was building trust with the Santa Rita nuns as they had a poor experience with media prior to the documentary which a lot of documentary makers would say 'No don't ever show them your recordings'," Westover said these women were giving me their faces and their stories We showed them what we were filming and that helped build trust The documentary shows moments of their daily lives such as their times of prayer and reflection One of the concerns the nuns face are the diminishing numbers of young women joining the order "Three nuns have died since we finished filming," Westover said "But they appear in the documentary and you can see them there." They captured the challenges of living in community with other women who become family at the time of their oaths I assumed the Catholic church supported them but no they have to financially support themselves," Westover said But these women — they're businesswomen." The nuns are able to do so by baking and selling altar bread Westover said the contemplative life of the cloistered sisters was busier than she anticipated "I was so sad when we finished filming and they told me that I was their sister and that my camera man was their brother," Westover said "Final Vows" will be screened at the Fox Theatre and it will be followed by a Q & A with two of the sisters featured in the documentary: Pamela Fletcher and Abbess Victoria Murray allegedly attempting to smuggle migrants into the country was flown to a local hospital after rolling his SUV near Sonoita on Saturday Border Patrol observed the driver traveling north from the border near Parker Canyon Lake in a white Nissan Rogue The Rogue stopped shortly after being spotted by Sonoita Station agents in the field passing additional agents farther along the highway They found the SUV rolled onto its side at the corner of Route 83 and Cimarron Road near Sonoita The driver was found unconscious outside of the vehicle Agents called for emergency medical services and moved the driver from the Rogue in case it caught fire found to be illegally present in the country The driver faces charges of alien smuggling (KGUN) — Alan Nyiri watched helplessly as heavy winds ripped a section of roof clear off the south barn at Empire Ranch in Sonoita last Tuesday "All of a sudden this gust of wind came up and boxes and other things were just skittering across," said Nyiri who volunteers for the Bureau of Land Management and lives on the ranch half the year "And the corner of the roof right here suddenly just started to lift up and flipped over." repairs to the ranch can cost a small fortune besides just literally putting the skin back on Boice McCabe and the foundation are left to cover the costs of repairs to the barn "A building without a roof is not a building for very long Their next event on the ranch is their spring trail ride on April 5 All money raised or donated goes to repairs and renovations for the ranch house ——Blake Phillips is a reporter for KGUN 9 During his college tenure at the Missouri School of Journalism Blake worked for the NBC affiliate KOMU-TV in Columbia He is excited to return to a place he calls home and give back to the community in which he grew up Share your story ideas and important issues with Blake by emailing blake.phillips@kgun9.com (KGUN) — The Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival is back in Sonoita this weekend The yearly event celebrates the culture of the 'Old West' and helps raise money for the Empire Ranch Foundation the nonprofit that maintains the historic ranch property The festival runs from Saturday to Sunday from 10 a.m You'll see something you've never seen before western heritage," says Faith Boice McCabe The foundation asks for a $20 donation to park A list of things to do can be found on their website Earlier this year, KGUN 9's Blake Phillips paid a visit to the Empire Ranch during our One Tank Trip series One Tank Trip: Empire Ranch keeps ranching history alive 140 years later Match Expires at Midnight GIVE NOW Join us for guided birdwatching walks every Saturday morning to learn about the resident and migrating birds as well as the environmental history of the preserve This site contains the first two miles of permanent flow of Sonoita Creek and the floodplains adjacent to the stream The site contains very high biodiversity values that are primarily focused on the riparian habitats along Sonoita Creek As the first project for The Nature Conservancy in Arizona it contains much of the biological diversity associated with these habitat types and the natural processes of flooding are mostly intact and functioning The 865-acre preserve protects a magnificent example of the rare Fremont cottonwood-Goodding willow riparian forest Some of the trees are among the largest (more than 100 feet tall) and oldest (130 years old) Fremont cottonwood trees in this country This is one of the few remaining sites in Arizona where this once-common forest type still persists netleaf hackberry and various willows are found in slightly different habitats throughout the preserve a once-common feature of the Sonoita Creek floodplain and the most endangered natural community in Arizona A significant number of rare and sensitive plant species are found in the Sonoita Creek watershed Santa Cruz striped agave and the Santa Cruz beehive cactus the preserve is visited by thousands of people every year seeking to see and experience some facet of its rich natural diversity The preserve has been actively engaged in hydrologic research and monitoring and is the site of some of the first community-based activities seeking to build understanding and support for conservation in southern Arizona It has been a platform for promoting the work of TNC and a site of several innovative environmental education activities Closed Mondays and Tuesdays and on the holidays listed below Cross the creek and go about one mile to the entrance Need help finding our preserves? Download directions (.pdf 143 kb) to the six Arizona preserves open to the public Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve has installed its first public level 2 EV charger Download a list of birds at Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve. A one-mile-long trail connecting the preserve to Tucson Audubon’s Paton Center for Hummingbirds is now in use the trail is a joint venture between the preserve and the Paton Center Highlights of the walk include access to upland habitat canopy views of the cottonwoods along Sonoita Creek and a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains from the top of the vista point its wild residents and view interpretive exhibits at the Visitor Center Group visits require prior arrangements. Please call 520-394-2400 Admission fees support their operation and The Nature Conservancy’s conservation projects across southeastern Arizona Nature walks are offered on an irregular basis. For the most current information, call the preserve at 520-394-2400 and leave a message Special arrangements may be made for groups In consideration of our sensitive wildlife habitats we ask all visitors and guests to observe the following regulations: For information please contact Aaron Mrotek, the preserve manager, at 520-394-2400 or email aaron.mrotek@tnc.org Tag @tnc_arizona on Instagram and share your photos with us when you visit a perfect bifurcation of cowboys and winos Regardless of whether you’re an oenophile or perhaps just looking for a tannin-filled good time Sonoita-Elgin is sure to accommodate your version of wine tasting It’s become a tradition to take a drive down with all of my out-of-town guests and celebrate birthdays and big events there. I even got married and held our reception at some of the wineries there in December 2021 when you’re as obsessed with your dog as I am with mine it’s reassuring to have a place that welcomes pups with arms wide open These are just 15 of the wineries in the area which ought to set you on a delicious path through wine country Learn how we create our guides here. The outdoor space at Autumn Sage boasts a classic gazebo and dock overlying a fishing pond which makes the perfect backdrop for any and all photos and it’s hard to ignore the majestic mountain ranges in every direction with rolling hills that turn green during monsoon There are even autumn sage plants sprinkled throughout the property The fabulous gals at AZ Hops & Vines know how to have a good time They have a petting zoo complete with donkeys Many thoughtful touches have been added to the property such as The Wishing Barrel and quotes from Jack Kerouac and Frida Kahlo painted on the walls It should suffice to say that Callaghan Vineyards has been honored by having its wine served at the White House four times but it should also be noted that they’re a foundational winery for Sonoita and they have a beautiful property worth checking out Charron Vineyards is a great way to start or end your wine trip because they’re basically the halfway point between Tucson and Sonoita/Elgin (it’s a 25ish-min drive from downtown Tucson) and are usually open an hour or two later than the other wineries Hang out on their patio and enjoy stunning views of the Santa Rita mountains and their vines I’m extremely biased as this is where our nuptials took place (10/10 recommend getting married at a winery) Pack a picnic to enjoy on their wraparound patio (they also have plenty of indoor seating) and play a round of bocce ball on their court Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been growing grapes and producing wines in southern Arizona since 1995 high-quality fruit from its two estate vineyards: Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita and Cimarron Vineyard in the Kansas Settlement The sparkling Rose is one of my favorite offerings Lightning Ridge certainly merits a visit the next time you’re in the area Their estate wines are made from classic Italian varietals based on the family’s heritage Nestled at the foothills of the Mustang Mountains, it’s hard to not immediately fall in love with the vision that the Los Milics team has set forth for themselves. The vineyard also landed on USA Today’s “10 Best New Winery Experiences in the U.S.” Honestly even without the stunning property views and tasting spaces and it’s saying “You’re going to want to take a bottle or six home.” Rune is home to exceptional wines made by James Callahan great food (its new kitchen is *chef’s kiss*) but can’t be inside the tasting room Salvatore Vineyards and Passion Cellars opened up their tasting room in Sonoita/Elgin in February 2022 They also have locations throughout Southern Arizona including Bisbee What do Sonoita Vineyards and Bob Ross’ Joy of Painting have in common Sonoita Vineyards is the oldest commercial vineyard and winery in Arizona it’s no wonder they know how to throw some awesome parties such as their Harvest Fest Sunset Ride Wine opened in March 2022 and is already successfully embedding itself into the wine community They feature their own horses on their label Be sure to check them out because they’re one of the first stops on your way into Sonoita (coming from Tucson) and seating for your pups to fulfill a great day of wine tasting they’ve got two pet-friendly guest suites you can book so that you can wake up among the vines Vino Stache is open for tastings from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturdays or by appointment only on other days What’s cool about making an appointment is that you get to spend some time with the winemaker herself What’s even cooler is that each year Vino Stache Winery selects a local Arizona-based charity to give back a dollar per bottle sold which I’m absolutely including as an alternative in this guide because it’s so dang good You’ll find something for everyone at Wilhelm Family Vineyards the following are the Arizona locations that vacationers appreciate the most Patagonia may not look like a place that would qualify as a U.S Until you start to appreciate its peace and charm it is because you have not been to Velvet Elvis Pizza Concerning the Paton Center for Hummingbirds another sought-after attraction in the town it should be enough to state that this is the best bird-watching spot in southern Arizona John Ward Ranch is a famous shrine and a weird roadside attraction that should not chop off more than 20 minutes of your time the Sky Islands Fall Artisan Market is an annual October event that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local artists it is well worth checking if they are in the area it is just a heartbeat away from Patagonia meaning one can hit both of them on a weekend A few steps away at the Arizona Hops and Vines one can have a blast getting educated in viticulture and tasting different wines If you are spending the night and looking for a quiet comfortable place to rest and perhaps do some star-gazing Xanadu Ranch GetAway is what a well-meaning local will suggest If you love San Francisco you will have to love Tubac because the history of the two towns is intertwined Tubac was the starting point of the Spanish expedition — described as “tough but peaceful” — that went on to found San Francisco one can inhale beautiful views of the Santa Rita mountains Tubac is mostly known as an artists' colony You can retrace the footprints of the town's founders at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park rouse your senses at the Tubac Center of the Arts and hit up beautiful trails at the Juan Bautista de Anza NHP Trailhead an excellent campground with all necessary amenities But Arivaca still spices it up a bit with sites such as Cedar Creek a quaint bar in the middle of town with an endearing old-timey feel There is a reason for the La Gitana Cantina’s retro ambiance especially if you want your mind to travel to Old Arizona Bisbee morphed first into a hippie haven before transforming itself yet again into an arts and culture community folks here are free-spirited but not in an outrageous sense If you want to have a feel of life as a pioneer a tour of the Copper Queen Mine should be on the cards It takes an hour and reveals the hair-raising dangers that miners face you can stay in a school bus at the Shady Dell Miners & Merchants Antique Center should suffice Bisbee has a fun music festival called “Side Pony Express,” often held in November Bisbee hosts the nation's most extreme 3-day cosplay event: Alice in Bisbeeland And “epic” almost sounds like an understatement the road to Jerome can scare the heck out of anyone Think of winding switchbacks on a narrow two-lane road some of which showcase the region’s wine-making tradition and Passion Cellars — are both right on Main Street Even those who have lived in Italy will find these two spots exceptional Jerome has an intimate relationship with art Spaces like Jerome Art Center and the many galleries tucked in storefronts speak to this fact Jerome is known for paranormal occurrences best experienced during evening ghost tours Jerome State Historic Park can provide a fun Cottonwood easily earns a spot among Arizona towns ranked among U.S the town has a fairly pleasant temperature Arizona Stronghold Vineyards has a large outside patio and is conveniently located on Main Street It is the best spot to experience the town's wine-making heritage A town that won the Governor's Tourism Award including the natural beauty of the surrounding area to the north are the red rocks of Sedona — while to the south is Mingus Mountain which boasts some of the best-known exposures of Precambrian rocks on the continent Just don't miss exploring the Historic Old Town charming stretch dotted with chic boutiques One can also enjoy hanging out with locals here especially at the Old Town Center for the Arts Its population is nothing to write home about The scenery of the surrounding countryside The town reclines at the foothills of the Dragoon Mountains and is an outdoor lover's paradise It has to be at the Cave Creek Visitor Info Center where visitors receive maps of walks and hikes and bits of other useful information about the area Cave Creek Canyon is one of the premier birding spots in the United States But even if the soaring of an eagle does not electrify your heart There is the Sunny Flat Campground as well Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe is known for its exceptional burgers Just the kinds of stuff that make for a fantastic getaway and it will not take you long before realizing that the restaurants here whip up some of the best Mexican food in Arizona Los Ronabertos on Ash Street — and La Luz Del Dia on Broad Street — will settle the matter the nearby Pinal Mountains offer a delightful range of recreational activities there is the Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive an ancient ruin of the Salado people who lived there more than 600 years ago; and the many old buildings that line the charming Historic District From hiking all day and night, Sedona can pack quite a lot into a single day or weekend One can catch a glorious sunset at the outrageously breathtaking Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout also known to provide fantastic views of the entire city; hike Devil’s Bridge a photographer’s paradise that dabbles up as the largest natural sandstone arch in the town; or explore one of Sedona’s most underrated sides: Its retail scene there is no better place to enjoy high-quality retail therapy in Sedona than at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village fountains and flowers — and all kinds of knick-knacks Arizona captivates first-time vacationers with its beautiful desert views one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World draws close to 5 million visitors every year Arizona is also star-studded with a delicious mix of small towns some of which are the most unique in the country those seeking Arizona towns ranked among the U.S favorites have an excellent line-up to pick from photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com and designers have captured all sides of the Valley with award-winning and insightful writing and investigative features keep our 385,000 readers in touch with the Valley's latest trends each destination offers something for everyone From picturesque hikes on the breathtaking slopes of Mount Lemmon to charming pumpkin patches in Willcox, these destinations showcase the best of fall close to Tucson. Whether sipping on local wine and glamping at Sonoita Vineyards or stepping back in time and experiencing the Wild West in Tombstone these unforgettable fall getaways are just a short drive from Tucson Just an hour north of Tucson, Mount Lemmon offers a refreshing fall escape in the Santa Catalina Mountains. As travelers ascend the scenic Catalina Highway, the magical saguaros give way to towering pines and maples their leaves ablaze with red and orange hues Mount Lemmon provides a cool retreat from the desert perfect for hiking among the vibrant autumn colors Outdoor lovers can explore the Aspen and Marshall Gulch trails stop by the Mount Lemmon Cookie Cabin for homemade fudge or relax at a local lodge with a cozy fireplace enjoy a scenic chairlift ride at Ski Valley and soak in the panoramic views of the fall-draped forest biking or simply breathing in the fresh mountain air is a hidden gem in the high desert during the fall Known for its golden cottonwood trees lining the banks of Sonoita Creek this charming town is a dream for nature lovers Take a stroll through the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve where migratory birds make their seasonal journey and the vibrant fall foliage creates the perfect backdrop for a peaceful nature walk or picnic Nearby Patagonia Lake State Park offers tranquil kayaking and paddleboarding where the autumn colors reflect off the water fall also brings wine-tasting events at nearby vineyards Savor local wines while enjoying the crisp fall air and stunning landscape Just over an hour southeast of Tucson, Sonoita is Arizona’s premier wine country, and fall is the ideal time to visit. As the grape harvest season winds down Embark on a scenic drive along the Sonoita Wine Trail which features tastings of seasonal favorites at Sonoita Vineyards the oldest commercial vineyard and winery in Arizona Enjoy daily wine tastings and guided vineyard tours with select weekends featuring live comedy and musical acts in the fall Thanks to the unique growing conditions of the area the winery consistently produces award-winning wines ranging from crisp and fruity to bold and complex For those wanting an unforgettable experience the vineyard also offers tent and RV glamping SonoitaVineyards is also pet-friendly; just keep them on a leash Sabino Canyon, a desert oasis just north of Tucson, becomes a peaceful retreat from the warm fall months in the city. Although the desert does not offer traditional autumn foliage, the soft light and mild temperatures make for stunning scenic hikes. Plus, the canyon is located at the base of the stunning Catalina Mountains Hike on more than 30 miles of trails through the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area with its towering saguaros and rugged mountain backdrops. Take the Sabino Canyon Crawler, an emission-free electric shuttle, to the top for a leisurely ride or hike to Seven Falls, where you might catch a waterfall if recent rains have graced the area Sabino Canyon is a must-visit for a refreshing fall desert escape Step back in time with a visit to Tombstone, located just 75 miles southeast of Tucson. This iconic town, known for its rich Wild West history comes alive in the fall with vibrant festivals and a host of activities that make it a perfect seasonal getaway Helldorado Days in October is the highlight of the fall calendar Join the locals for a spirited celebration featuring thrilling gunfight reenactments Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through historic saloons where legends like Wyatt Earp once roamed stop by the haunted Bird Cage Theatre for a ghost tour and possible encounter with spirits of the past Other landmarks to visit while in town include the Boothill Graveyard where the infamous outlaws and pioneers rest with reenactments of the historic gunfight that made this location legendary From history buffs to thrill-seekers and those wanting to experience the Wild West Less than an hour southeast of Tucson, Kartchner Caverns offers a cool underground adventure ideal for the fall season the fall landscape comes to life with golden hues The park’s picturesque trails reveal stunning backdrops of Arizona’s natural splendor allowing for a refreshing escape into nature explore the caverns on a guided tour and discover the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites some of which have been forming for thousands of years Kartchner Caverns becomes a serene retreat Visitors can enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning autumn scenery or opt for camping overnight in the park Some of the cabins even offer stunning views of the Whetstone Mountains Crisp air and starry nights offer an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and recharge in this unique destination Although Oracle is only 30 miles north of Tucson the small town is surrounded by high desert landscapes that come alive in the fall Cooler temperatures make it the perfect destination for hiking through oak woodlands in Oracle State Park or enjoying a quiet picnic in the autumn air the park is the perfect spot for stargazing in the fall the park hosts unique events during the fall including geology tours of the Santa Catalina Mountains Oracle’s artistic community offers a refreshing retreat visitors can explore the Rancho Linda Vista Artists Community where they can view and purchase local art while engaging with the talented artists who call this place home Willcox is a fall lover’s dream for those looking for a traditional fall getaway head to Apple Annie’s Orchard for apple picking The orchard’s Fall Pumpkin Celebration takes place every Saturday and Sunday in October and offers farm-fresh foods the Willcox Wine Country Fall Festival in October is a must-visit event and artisan vendors showcasing their handmade crafts and delicious treats The town also hosts the Rex Allen Days in October honoring the “Arizona Cowboy” from Willcox with a carnival Willcox offers a quintessential fall experience Saguaro National Park is located both to the east and west of Tucson Although Saguaro National Park does not offer traditional fall foliage its desert landscape is stunning in the cooler autumn months With comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking the park's miles of trails offer peaceful exploration among towering saguaros and rugged desert beauty which features a 2-hour hike to view night-prowling wildlife the park's towering saguaros create a breathtaking backdrop for stargazing Fall also brings increased wildlife activity providing fantastic opportunities for scenic drives and breathtaking sunset views that illuminate the landscape in golden hues Take a leisurely drive along the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive to enjoy views of diverse cacti with pull-over spots for short walks and inspiring photos For those seeking peace and solitude in nature Saguaro National Park is the perfect fall escape offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys The cooler fall weather makes it perfect for outdoor fun take a guided tour of Colossal Cave to view stunning limestone formations Guests can even choose from one of three tours each with varying levels of difficulty and unique experiences and stalagmites create a magical environment for visitors Colossal Cave offers a unique fall outdoor adventure Located about two hours southeast of Tucson Bisbee offers a quirky and artsy fall experience Autumn brings several annual festivals to the town making it a vibrant destination during this season the Bisbee 1000 stair-climb race challenges participants to climb nine different staircases connected by the winding streets of Bisbee For those seeking a more lighthearted challenge the Carrick Hotel's annual "Howell-ween" celebration features a charming pet parade The town also celebrates the spooky season at the Annual Halloween Haunt at Mile High Ranch with costumes enjoy the fun at the Sidepony Express Music Festival in November the Bisbee Mariachi Festival at the historic Warren Ballpark adds a festive flair to the fall calendar with mariachi bands Bisbee in the fall is a delightful mix of culture With so many options just a short drive from Tucson there is no need to travel far to enjoy the magic of fall taking a desert hike at Colossal Cave Mountain Park or enjoying the many fall festivals in Bisbee these destinations provide the perfect blend of nature With so many great destinations less than a three-hour drive from Tucson and hit the road for an unforgettable fall adventure Oh, would you look at that? Another article about Sonoita by Addie. Here I am, though, sharing another not-so-hidden gem. Tucked away in Sonoita, Chef Adam Puckle isn’t just cooking meals; he’s creating experiences, driven by some of Sonoita/Elgin’s best wines. His passion for crafting experiences and bringing his community together extends beyond the plate. Chef Puckle understands that dining out is an experience, so in 2009 he created A.P.E Dining LLC (Adam Puckle Experience. His vision was and continues to be creating a unique dining experience using locally sourced ingredients and wine pairings for his community to enjoy. Chef Puckle’s menu is influenced by “something new and something the same,” leveraging local sources to focus on the guest. A post shared by The Cafe – PucklesPlace (@cafesonoita) Every week, The Cafe is home to live music and great food. Thursday nights at The Cafe are all about “The Amazing Front Porch Show” — hosted by the one and only Mr. Jim Koweek. It’s a mix of country, western swing, bluegrass, and cowboy humor. On Fridays, The Cafe serves up Music Dinner. This one is pretty self-explanatory; there’s live music and you eat dinner. For the late risers, Saturday and Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. A post shared by The Cafe – PucklesPlace (@cafesonoita) Chef Adam is currently offering savory and sweet bites to pair with a wine flight enjoy savory options like the Firecracker Chicken Slider paired with Omphalos Eudaimonia and the Grilled Lime Shrimp with ancho chile paired with Sonoita Vineyards’ Arizona Sunset indulge in the Chipotle Raspberry Wings accompanied by Sonoita Vineyards MeCaSah and the decadent cheesecake with raspberries and mint paired with Omphalos Petit Sirah If you’re looking for something more special, you’ll want to reserve the last Saturday of the month as these are reserved for the Wine Maker’s Dinner from 5 – 7 p.m. On Saturday, December 30, Chef Puckle will team up with Vino Stache Winery for a special Wine Maker’s Dinner. You’ll need to make a reservation online or by calling (520) 455-5044 You can find more information here Reserve your spot for the Wine Dinner today by calling (520) 455-5044 The Cafe is located at 3280 AZ-82, Sonoita, Arizona. For more information, visit cafesonoita.com Love Tucson food? So do we. That’s why our stories are free to read — and focused on the chefs, farmers, and restaurants that make Tucson so delicious.👉 Get exclusive perks & support local with the Foodie Insiders Club and learn how to eat local year-round Addie has her Masters in Legal Studies and hopes to one day apply that towards helping people (and animals) around the globe So far she’s hit 4 continents and counting You’ll likely find her on a patio sipping wine with her 4-legged best friend play around in the water at the Patagonia Lake State Park 250-acre lake is a popular destination for camping One perfect day could be driving down to Parker Canyon Lake with a picnic and a fishing rod stopping in Benson on the way back for a ham steak at the real-deal Another perfect day could be a vineyard tour across wine country grabbing pizza with your partner at Dos Cabezas WineWorks and ending the night at a cottage on-site among the grapes I’ve had perfect days as simple as a drive to Patagonia and getting coffee at Gathering Grounds with my aunt who spent her son’s earliest years hanging out there with older hippies The Sonoita Valley connects the wine country of Sonoita with the rugged canyons and hills around Patagonia It contains some of the most iconically western landscapes in the state the region is crucially cooler than Tucson in the blazing summer wine and natural attractions of the Mountain Empire 154 E. Fourth St., Benson Benson’s Horseshoe Cafe is a time capsule of Old West charm the detour is worth it for its charm and stellar food and their happy hour drink specials had my uncle’s eyes popping out of his head The vintage cowboy murals are only matched in atmosphere by the enormous neon horseshoe on the restaurant’s ceiling 2100 N. Amerind Road, Dragoon A little farther down I-10 is the Amerind Museum a huge repository of historical and contemporary Indigenous art research and archeology near the scenic Texas Canyon 2980 AZ-90, Benson The Kartchner Caverns cave system features the largest column in Arizona one of the world’s largest soda straw stalactites and the world’s most extensive collection of brushite moonmilk you can tour the Throne and Rotunda Rooms (the huge column They also offer specialty trips on select days: one where you are guided only by the light of a headlamp another where you’re permitted to take photos (which aren’t allowed in any other tour) 1451 S. La Cañada Dr., Green Valley This homestyle, sit-down Mexican restaurant has some of the best soups in Southern Arizona (my favorite is their Xochitl) Mi Nidito or Rosa’s Mexican Food and slapped it in the middle of Green Valley — there might be more retirees than you’re used to but the beans and rice will fill you with that same warm nostalgia One of Family Joint’s most popular pizzas is made with tomatillo sauce and Celina Bencomo’s signature carnitas ($14) Get it with lime-cilantro crema on the side 180 W. Continental Road, Green Valley The cousins behind Family Joint Pizzeria grew up in Green Valley and brought their Sonoran-Neapolitan pizzas to Sahuarita and Tucson by way of a brick oven on wheels they will bring it home with two upcoming brick-and-mortar restaurants: one pizza spot with their classic tomatillo pies and a classic Mexican restaurant in the style of their Nana 1931 I-19 Frontage Road, Tumacacori On the side of the Tumacacori frontage road, a stone’s throw from the historical park, you’ll come across a statue of an enormous chicken. It’s the sign that you’ve made it to Wisdom’s the Mexican restaurant that many readers told me had the best margarita in the Tucson area (I suspect they also meant to say strongest.) If you don’t get the chile relleno you’re going to be envious of whoever takes my advice 1868 I-19 Frontage Road, Tumacacori I ship my homesick family Santa Cruz’s picante sauce for every holiday but you’ll save a lot of money on shipping if you pick up gifts in bulk at their factory in Tumacacori 3248 AZ-82 This destination date night has one of the coziest set-ups around 3470 AZ-82 This is where to find drinks like mead, cider and fruit wine in Sonoita. This local distillery offers both sparkling and flat meads as well as fun events like the upcoming space cowboy dance party (Aug 19) and a holiday market with bonfires and food trucks in early December 3235 AZ-82 The oldest restaurant in Sonoita this rustic cowboy chophouse is where you can find a display case showing off different cuts of steak and a trove of local ephemera and Melissa Elliott sample their way through a flight in one of the outdoor areas at AZ Hops and Vines in Sonoita on July 29 3450 AZ-82 At #ThisIsTucson, it’s kind of our thing to keep track of cool events. Whenever we’re putting together a list, AZ Hops and Vines always catches my eye but we don’t always include them because of the long drive to an event that centers alcoholic beverages — the logistics are simply too tricky 320 Smelter Ave. This new restaurant was recommended to me by the logistics manager of Vera Earl Ranch. Queen of Cups makes their own wine in-house and are known for their charcuterie boards (but their full dinner menu is special drawing inspiration from Spain and Turkey as well as seasonal 319 McKeown Ave. When my aunt lived in Rio Rico, she’d bring my cousin and me here as kids. It’s simply the coziest coffee shop around If Central Perk was in the middle of a remote canyon town 277 McKeown Ave. Find everything you need for a picnic at this barbecue spot and bakery — including fudge and a milkshake for the road a slew of pies and brisket are their wheelhouse The Sonoita Valley is home to dozens of wineries. Arizona Winery Tours will take you on a 7-hour tour of three of them, with several tastings at each location. Each $140 ticket pays for the on-site tastings with a complimentary glass a locally catered lunch and roundtrip van transport 295 McKeown Ave., Patagonia This hip venue is a local hub across many interests, from local food to mountain biking. Their low-key summer events feature local bands and Tamales Elisa The cafe offers Presta Coffee in the mornings and beer and wine at night Nikki Pochily sits in the water to cool off at the Patagonia Lake State Park 400 Patagonia Lake Road, Patagonia Home to one of the closest beaches to Tucson, this state park offers all kinds of recreation: cabin camping 477 Pennsylvania Ave., Patagonia Arizona is one of the only places in the world where hummingbirds can exist year-round, because something is always in bloom. The Paton Center celebrates these birds in a former homesite alongside Sonoita Creek where rare violet-crowned hummingbirds can be spotted as they migrate to and from Mexico Nearly 1,500 feet higher in elevation than Patagonia Lake, the tree-lined Parker Canyon Lake is cooler (literally) than any other you can find in Southern Arizona pedal boats and motor boats with fishing kits They also have shady hiking trails and tent camping sites with lake views 3243 AZ-82, Sonoita Located across the street from Dos Cabezas WineWorks on the main stretch of Sonoita’s highway, Sonoita Inn is a boutique hotel with 18 rooms and some rustic charm It’s a good headquarters for a wine tour to save yourself the drive home 303 McKeown Ave., Patagonia This hotel’s Old West facade looks like a set piece from Old Tucson. Located instead in downtown Patagonia, the Stage Stop Inn has both a pool 26560 S. Old Sonoita Hwy, Sonoita 1476 AZ-82, Patagonia ranch foreman Miko Lorta said visitors who come for a 7-day stay can expect to ride 70 to 80 miles Very seldom do you drive beyond cell phone service unless you’re heading on a remote road trip Follow these simple suggestions to secure your safety when your adventure ends in breakdown disaster Northwest Tucson is home to a surprising diversity of food options It's the only place in Tucson where you'll find a full dim sum service and… the wife of a man who was murdered in Sonoita earlier this month has died from the injuries she sustained in the same attack according to a news release from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office is now being held in the Santa Cruz County Jail on suspicion of killing both Jamie Lee Scheid and his father A search warrant was executed on Austin Scheid's residence in Tucson a journal was discovered where Austin Scheid allegedly described his intentions to kill the victims deputies found the body of 64-year-old Gregory Scheid who was critically injured but still alive Jamie Lee Scheid was airlifted from the scene Austin Scheid is currently being held in the Santa Cruz County Jail A Sonoita man was arrested Thursday morning on suspicion of killing his father and critically injuring his step-mother Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call at about 3:42 a.m from 22-year-old Austin William Scheid saying that he had murdered two people at 25 Lucero Del Cielo according to a news release from the sheriff's office Sheriff's deputies apprehended Scheid in his vehicle at an intersection near the home Lily Waite of Sonoita has established herself as one of the top rising talents in rodeo, especially at the high school level. The 17-year-old earned the Arizona High School Rodeo Association (AHSRA) state finals championship in the breakaway roping competition on June 1 at Prescott. “Thinking that I closed out my junior year with reaching goals I’ve been working at for five years is incredible,” mentioned Waite, who rebounded strongly this year after having knee surgery. “So excited to see what my senior year has to hold next season.” Waite’s cumulative average time of 11.92 seconds was the fastest out of 68 competitors in the state finals. She roped the calves in times of 3.57, 3.73 and 4.62. The next-fasted time was 12.05 seconds, achieved by Maryn Buchanan of Marana. Buchanan finished second in the season point standings with 48 points and Waite was 10th at 19. By finishing in the top 4, Buchanan, who recently graduated from high school, qualified for the National High School Rodeo Championships (NHSRC) in Gillette, Wyo., from July 16-22. Waite, entering her senior year taking classes online with Primavera High School, is making it a mission to achieve a spot in the NHSRC next year. A post shared by Lily Waite (@lilywaite358) After starting her career in the junior competition in barrel racing Waite wanted to expand her repertoire in rodeo breakaway rope and team rope was at AHSRA,” Waite said “I also like the challenge of competing against the best junior athletes in Arizona with a chance to go to the National High School Rodeo Championships.” Waite and her horse Cinch finished 15th in the season standings in barrel racing One of many firm believers in Waite’s ability is Levi Koenen a longtime local football coach at various high schools Koenen has known the Waite family since Lily was born. He is one of her sponsors as owner of the Lost Highway Sign Company a well-known local craft establishment that makes sayings from letters and numbers cut from different license plates “Lily has the spirit and drive of a champion,” Koenen said “She proves this over and over again in the arena and outside of it as well I’ve seen her dedication and work ethic lead to amazing accomplishments.” Waite holds a 3.9 GPA while working three to five days a week and attending physical therapy twice a week She missed five rodeos after undergoing knee surgery last fall After winning the state finals in breakaway roping earlier this month Waite was named the AHSRA’s 2023-24 student secretary “I am looking forward to representing this wonderful state and the rodeo athletes,” she stated “I would like to thank the association for such an amazing opportunity I can’t wait to spend this year supporting our student athletes and helping our sport grow.” Waite is undecided concerning her choice for college She mentioned New Mexico State is a possibility because it has an “excellent rodeo team and offers a lot of degree programs in agriculture and marketing Her long list of achievements in junior and now high school competition has created a desire to have a significant impact on rodeo “My goals in the sport are to promote a positive image for the Western industry good sportsmanship and lifelong friendships,” Waite stated FOLLOW @JAVIERJMORALES ON TWITTER A unique website covering youth and high school sports and Pima Community College and University of Arizona athletics, combining in-depth analysis and professional reporting from award-winning journalists. Arizona's Completely Underrated Wine RegionBy Thrillist EditorialPublished on Feb 14 2017 at 12:01 AMLauren Topor/ThrillistLauren Topor/ThrillistYou might not know it but Arizona produces some really great wine Our wines have been served in the White House and at James Beard dinners in New York and they've earned ribbons and won medals just like some of the more famous wine-growing regions in the country and living in the shadow of other well-recognized wine-growing areas in the country Arizona wine has taken off in the last decade Just because we were among those who did it first doesn't necessarily mean we've been on top It was illegal to grow grapes for wine in the Copper State between 1915 and the 1980s the vineyards are perched at heights ranging from 3,800ft up to 6,000ft dry climate is as brutal to vines as it is to delicate human skin -- winemakers say it's very easy to kill vines in this area if you're not careful and diligent If only keeping vines healthy were as easy as wearing sunblock and moisturizing Soil scientist Dr. Gordon Dutt is the grandfather of Arizona wine and saw Sonoita for the lush growing region it is. After testing soils from all over the state, he planted his first vines in the Sonoita soil in the early 1970s. Dutt thought that the soil and the arid climate would make the best wines possible -- and he was right. Dutt's first commercial vineyard, Sonoita Vineyards "What makes a grape interesting is the story that it tells," said Todd Bostock of Dos Cabezas WineWorks Because Sonoita is still a young growing region winemakers are continuing to experiment to find the vines that work best "Vines have to get to know their site," said traveling wine writer Elaine Brown With that in mind, Sonoita winemakers carefully choose varieties that will thrive in difficult conditions. Ann Roncone, who moved from the Bay Area to grow grapes at an elevation of 5,100ft in Sonoita at Lightning Ridge Cellars you wouldn't grow something like a pinot that typically thrives in cold and wet climates The exact timing of harvesting season varies year-to-year based on how spring and summer pan out -- a mild spring makes for an early harvest and a cold winter and chilly spring mean that harvest is pushed back After the fruit is picked from the vine it's de-stemmed After harvest the vines go dormant and essentially shut down most winemakers are bottling and getting ready for their next year the governor signed a bill dubbed "Free the Grapes," which allows the purchase of wine over the phone and online the law only allowed shipping from large-scale vineyards that met an established criteria -- now the little guy gets to play Arizona currently has 83 licensed wineries And from what we have seen in recent years In Sonoita, you could easily spend a weekend on a tasting tour of local wineries along Highways 82 and 83 Growth isn't just limited to Sonoita; it is happening across the state. Arizona's Verde Valley, for instance, is booming and the home of a viticulture school called Southwest Wine Center, which teaches impassioned winemakers what they need to know about making wine. There's even a wine incubator, called Four Eight Wineworks in Clarkdale equipped with its own tasting room At a recent AVA meet-up Elaine Brown enthusiastically cheered "You guys are kicking ass." In terms of American wine Sign up here for our daily Phoenix email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun in town.