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Photo Gallery of the Week
Patagonia High student Brayden Shumate gets a feel for firefighting from the Sonoita-Elgin Fire District. Photo by Dave Lumia 
A total of 40 businesses and organizations presented to high school and middle school students at the Oct. 23 Career Fair at Patagonia Union High School. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Patagonia High School students hear from representatives of Pima Community College. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Students from Elgin Middle School ask questions at the Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative booth. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Students from Elgin Middle School talk with representatives from the Border Patrol. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Board president Carrie White and volunteer writer Dave Lumia represented the Patagonia Regional Times at the PUHS Career Fair.
A total of 40 businesses and organizations presented to high school and middle school students at the Oct. 23 Career Fair at Patagonia Union High School. Photos by Dave Lumia
News
Food Bank prepares for surge in demand as SNAP funding to run out Nov. 1
From East Santa Cruz County Community Food Bank:
October 23, 2025 – Given the uncertainty around the continuation of SNAP benefits, the federal government shutdown, and the impact this may have on families in our community, the East Santa Cruz County Community Food Bank is prepared to assist those experiencing food insecurity within the limits of our resources.
We are currently assessing the increase in demand for our services that may occur. We will continue to post updates on our website, ESCCCfoodbank.org as events unfold.
Be aware that food banks do not have the capacity to replace all the benefits of the SNAP program, however we will provide as much food aid to our community as possible.
This is a developing story. The PRT will keep our community updated with latest developments via this website, Facebook and, as appropriate, ‘breaking news’ email bulletins.
Click here for information on how you can make an immediate financial donation to the Food Bank.
Health officials confirm two Dengue fever cases in Santa Cruz County
From Santa Cruz County:
Tuesday, Oct. 28: Santa Cruz County Health Services (SCCHS) has confirmed two laboratory-verified cases of Dengue fever involving siblings who reside part-time in the area. Based on the timing of symptom onset, the cases will be attributed to the county. The individuals are currently isolating and recovering outside of Santa Cruz County.
- Dengue is not contagious and does not spread from person to person. It is transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes.
- Symptoms include fever, eye socket pain, rash, and headache. May also include body aches and pains, nausea, and vomiting.
Public Health Response:
- Environmental Health is conducting mosquito surveillance and trapping near the Nogales, AZ, residence.
- Health education efforts are being expanded to promote mosquito control and bite prevention.
- Local and state health agencies, including the Office of Border Health, have been notified.
Protect Yourself:
- Cover up with long sleeves and pants.
- Use insect repellent with DEET.
- Eliminate standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding.
For more information, contact the Santa Cruz County Health Department Epidemiology at 520-375-7733.
Signatories report progress on Hermosa Project Community Protection and Benefit Agreement
From Santa Cruz County:
Oct. 22, 2025 – Representatives from Santa Cruz County, Nogales, Patagonia, and South32 are continuing to work together to develop a Community Protection and Benefit Agreement (CPBA) for the Hermosa project. Through regular working sessions, the group is focused on creating an agreement that facilitates transparency between South32 and the communities, ensures that the project protects the local communities and environment and provides for financial benefits of the mine to be dispersed to the communities. The agreement also looks to ensure the mine is developed, operated, and closed with sustainable protections and benefits for the community.
Click here to read the complete press release.
Lobos win big on Senior Night
Freshman Charlotte Myers goes up for a kill during last Friday’s resounding Lobos victory over visiting San Simon. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Seniors (left to right) Emma Lewton, Brianna Majalca and Jacky Benitez are honored on court after the game with San Simon. Senior Ximena Gonzalez and manager Adahir Ayon were not present for the ceremony. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Seniors Brianna Majalca and Emma Lewton joined classmates Jaxon Yslava, Noah Gallardo and Miguel Albarron to sing the national anthem. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Sasha Lewton, senior Emma Lewton, and Talene Lewton. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Jessica Gomez and senior Jacky Benitez. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Griselda Majalca and senior Brianna Majalca. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Brianna Majalca with coach Brenda Somoza. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Emma Lewton with coach Brenda Somoza. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Brianna Majalca (center) prepares to embrace Emma Lewton after the Lobos clinched the victory over San Simon. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Brianna Majalca and Amaya Somoza have plenty to smile about during Senior Night. Photo by Dave Lumia 
The Lobos celebrate a point. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Brianna Majalca bumps the ball to a teammate. Photo by Dave Lumia 
Senior Night swag on display for manager Adahir Ayon and players Jacky Benitez, Ximena Gonzalez, Emma Lewton and Brianna Majalca. Photo by Dave Lumia
By Dave Lumia
Senior Night for Patagonia High volleyball brought out the bouquets of flowers, the sparkly balloons, the packed grandstand and a wide range of emotions.
It also brought out one of the best performances of the year for the Lobos.
Patagonia concluded its regular season on Friday night with a resounding 25-14, 25-13, 25-10 victory over San Simon.
It was the Lobos’ third consecutive victory following their Oct. 15 loss to third-ranked St. David and locked up second place in the 1A South region, improving their record to 15-3 overall and 6-1 in region play. The Lobos are ranked eighth in the state among 1A teams and in strong position to host a first-round match in the state tournament on Nov. 4.
San Simon is ranked 14th among 1A schools with a 10-4 overall record and 5-2 in region play.
“Senior Night’s always a big night,” Patagonia coach Brenda Somoza said. “They always come in with a lot of energy, wanting to win. They played very good tonight.”
Patagonia and San Simon had met twice previously, and while the Lobos had won both matches, Friday night’s victory was by far the most dominant, with junior Amaya Somoza able to consistently set up senior Brianna Majalca and sophomore Monique Snell for kills at the net. Somoza was credited with 25 assists, Snell had 12 kills, and Majalca finished with nine in addition to three aces.
San Simon made a brief run at the Lobos midway through the first set, rattling off five consecutive points to pull within 13-12, but the Lobos took over from there, outscoring the Longhorns 12-2 while getting five straight points off of Majalca’s serve.
The Lobos were never threatened in the second or third sets, building up leads of 16-4 and 17-3 to wrap up the victory.
Seniors Majalca, Emma Lewton and Jacky Benitez were honored on the court afterward. Lewton and Majalca both admitted to being affected by emotions throughout the night.
“Very, very,” Lewton said. “I felt very jittery.”
“Me as well,” Majalca said. “I was just excited that we won by a lot.”
Next up for the Lobos is the region tournament at The Gregory School in Tucson next Friday and Saturday. Patagonia will play Friday night against the winner of a first-round match between San Simon and Baboquivari. A possible third shot at three-time defending champion St. David awaits on Saturday.
Somoza said she’s pleased with how the team has responded to the 3-1 loss to St. David on Oct. 15, with younger players such as Charlotte Myers, Losiram Estrada and Nicole Cabrera taking on larger roles.
“We tried not to dwell on it,” she said. “It hurt us all; we wanted that win real bad. We just fed off that, worked on the things we needed to work on. Put it in the past and move forward.”
Some splashes, no crashes at Spirit World 100
By Robert Gay
Cyclists riding in last weekend’s Spirit World 100 event encountered flowing water from South32’s Hermosa project at several points along their route on Harshaw Creek Road.
Fortunately, there were no reported crashes, only splashes, at the various water crossings during the event.
At the last crossing on the way up to San Rafael Valley, a few riders squealed with delight and others raised their legs to keep shoes dry, but no one stopped and none chose to carry their bikes across—not even the tandem and recumbent three-wheeler, both pictured in the photo gallery above.
One rider said she loved the splashes on the way back down the hill later in the day, as it had gotten pretty hot by early afternoon, and she welcomed the cooling sprays.
Editor’s note: The PRT will publish a full recap of the Spirit World 100 weekend, including results, highlights, photos and post-event reflections from organizers Zander Ault and Heidi Rentz, in next week’s bulletin.
Public Service Announcements
To submit an announcement, please email prtadast@gmail.com. Image files should be submitted in JPEG or PNG format.
Sonoita Community Check-in with Sup. Fanning this Tuesday, Nov. 4
From Santa Cruz County:
Stop by and visit District 3 Supervisor John Fanning this Tuesday, November 4, from 8 a.m. to noon at the county facility next to the Sonoita Library. It’s a great opportunity to share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect on local issues that matter to you.
Elgin School seeks photos for Veterans Day
Elgin School is seeking photos of local veterans for its Wall of Fame display at the annual Veterans Day Celebration on Monday, November 10.
A color copy of the photo will be made and attached to a red, white, or blue star with the veteran’s name, service branch, and dates of service.
Anyone wishing to contribute can drop off the photo and information to the Elgin School office or email the information to mpaul@elgink12.com. For more information, please call Melissa Paul at 455-5514, ext. 300.
You’re invited to a Community Thanksgiving Dinner!
The Vine Church, along with area churches, local businesses, and ministries, are coming together to host a FREE Community Thanksgiving Dinner—and you’re invited!
We know that some may not have a place to celebrate this special day. So let’s gather as friends, neighbors, and family to share gratitude, laughter, and a turkey-load of fun!
Location: Sonoita Fairgrounds
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Need a ride? Transportation is available upon request!
Bring your appetite, your family, and your thankful heart. Together, let’s celebrate the gift of gratitude as a loving community this Thanksgiving.
For more information or to request a ride, please contact:
Pastor Tom Moffett
Call/Text: (480) 226-9779
thevineschurches@gmail.com
School News and Youth Events
To report school news or list an event, please email prtadast@gmail.com. Image files should be submitted in JPEG or PNG format.
Mark your calendars for the Elgin School Fall Festival on Thursday, October 30! Open to the community, all are welcome! We will be “falling into reading” and having a great time with treats, games, and more! The Scholastic Book fair will be open and students are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes. Please note this is a family event, no childcare is available. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Upcoming Events
To list an event, please submit an image file in JPEG or PNG format. Email your submission to prtadast@gmail.com by Monday, 5pm. Remember to submit your event at least one week before the event date. Thank you!
The annual “Christmas in Elgin” event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10am-4pm and will have many arts and crafts. The event will be held at the Elgin Community Club, located at 475 Elgin Road in Elgin. Vendors may contact Rebecca Smith at 520-559-4835
Recurring Events
To list an event, please email prtadast@gmail.com. Image files should be submitted in JPEG or PNG format.
Alcoholics Anonymous:
- Sonoita Bible Church – Tuesdays at 7pm, 3174 N. Doors open at 6:30. Highway 83, Sonoita. Zoom option: 601-758-3907.
- Patagonia Methodist Community Church – Thursdays at 6:30pm. 387 McKeown Ave., Patagonia. Contact Dave at 207-249-8302.
Crossroads Quilters: Are you a textile artist (weaving, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting)? The Crossroads Quilters invites all interested textile artists to our meetings. Bring a project to work on and enjoy a morning of information sharing and camaraderie. We meet the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 9am at the Sonoita Bible Church, 3174 N. Highway 83. For more information email: alisbunting@gmail.com
Overeaters Anonymous: The OA Sky Islands Recovery group meets every Wednesday 11am-12noon at the East Santa Cruz County (ESCC) Food Bank at 772 Harshaw Ave in the meeting room at the end of the driveway. For additional meeting info, go to oasouthernaz.org. Contact Adrienne H. for more info 520-404-3490.
The Patagonia Senior Center has received a grant from Delta Dental of Phoenix to help seniors with dental expenses. Vouchers are provided for up to $350 to participating dentists. If interested, please call the Senior Center at (520) 394-2494.
Click here to consult the PRT’s ‘Community Calendar’ for additional events and meetings.
Employment Opportunities
To list an employment opportunity, please email prtadast@gmail.com. Image files should be submitted in JPEG or PNG format.
From Elgin School:
From Borderlands Restoration Network:
From Santa Cruz County:
Santa Cruz County is hiring! We’re seeking dedicated individuals to support our community in various departments, including public safety, community development, administration, and technology.
Competitive benefits
Explore current openings and apply today at: santacruzcountyaz.gov/Jobs
From City of Nogales/Santa Cruz County Library:
Homework Tutor (Sonoita Library)
Responsibilities: Receives supervision and direction from the Library Director or designee. Greets students and assesses each one for subject area and grade level; groups students in areas by grade level. Works one-on-one with students that have difficulty with subject at hand or with expressing themselves. Group students, no more than three to a group, if they are compatible and are working on similar projects. Alerts the Children Services Coordinator if they have a problem or need advice. While waiting for students, shelves books so they can show students where the materials are. Must have basic secondary knowledge of Math, English, and general Science courses. Skills in defining problems, establishing facts, and drawing valid conclusions.
Education, Certification and Requirements: Must be attending high school (junior or senior) and have good grades (A’s and B’s) OR have graduated high school and currently attending local college. Valid AZ Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience working with children. Knowledge of how to use computers. Familiarity of the way materials are stored in the library and willingness to learn the library system. English and Spanish language fluency.
Salary/Classification: Part-time position; FLSA non-exempt; $15.79 per hour
Close Date: Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a completed City of Nogales Employment Application and resume to the Human Resources Department. This position is Open Until Filled.
Farmers Markets
Patagonia Farmers and Crafts Market – Thursdays 10am-12pm by Red Mountain Foods.
Sonoita Farmers Market – Saturday Mornings 9am-12pm at the Sonoita Post Office parking lot (NW corner of Hwy 82/83)
Sierra Vista Farmers Market – Thursday 10am-2pm at Veteran’s Memorial Park.
Nogales “Little” Mercado – Fridays 4-7pm 163 Morley Ave, Nogales.
Church Events and Schedules
St. Therese Parish in Patagonia
Patagonia United Methodist Church
Click here to consult the PRT’s ‘Community Calendar’ for additional events and meetings.
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