Episode 704

Politics as Unusual
As the 2020 election looms, it might seem like our communities are more polarized than ever before. But according to University of Arizona political scientist Samara Klar, recent research shows that the coronavirus pandemic has an unexpected silver lining when it comes to our politics: by actually bringing us all closer together.

Grand Mama Jones
Grand Mama Jones, as she is known in her family, has been a rock for everyone around her. Now in her 80s, this woman, who has been a crossing guard in her neighborhood for the past forty years, and quietly supported generations of family and friends. Her granddaughter, Joronda Montaño, tells her story and why it’s important to show your gratitude each and every day to those who helped us along our way.

Favorite Places: Grotto Hill
Our series featuring southern Arizonan architects speaking thoughtfully and personally about a special building, place, or space in southern Arizona returns! This week, Grotto Hill - located just east of the Mission San Xavier del Bac on the Tohono O'odham Nation, this hill is known for a white cross placed on its peak and a small religious shrine located halfway up the walking trail and is architect Bill Draper‘s favorite place.

Sheriff Estrada
For the first time since the 1990s, Santa Cruz County will have a new sheriff elected to office this November. Tony Estrada, who has been in law enforcement for more than 50 years, has decided to finally retire. He began his career in the Nogales Police Department and was sworn into office as the new sheriff in 1993, having been re-elected since then.