Tucson Revives Historic Guest Ranch, Data Center Debate, and Back-to-School Prep on Local Pulse

10/08/2025 3 min
Tucson Revives Historic Guest Ranch, Data Center Debate, and Back-to-School Prep on Local Pulse

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Episode Synopsis

Good morning, this is Tucson Local Pulse for Sunday, August 10, 2025.We start today with breaking news that’s lighting up the east side. Solana Guest Ranch and Spanish Villas, the last historic guest ranch in Pima County, is making a grand comeback after a massive renovation. Nestled near Tanque Verde and Wentworth, this 1948-era property has been carefully restored and expanded by John and Danielle Jacobs. The revived ranch brings classic cowboy cookouts, horseback riding, and even luxury glamping wagons set for later this year. It’s not just a tribute to Tucson’s western heritage—it signals a comeback for local tourism and gives us a modern place to celebrate milestones or get back to nature.Looking at our city hall, debates are ongoing after a tumultuous public meeting about Project Blue, widely rumored to be the new set of Amazon data centers going up near Ina and I-10. Residents voiced concerns about water use and rising electric bills, but city officials say these centers will be “water positive.” Transparency and NDAs remain a sticking point. The attendance at these sessions shows just how invested our community is in responsible growth.Turning to the weather, we’re starting out hot and sunny, with temperatures climbing quickly into the low 100s by midday. The forecast calls for possible clouds in the afternoon, but no break from the heat. If you plan to get outside, especially with kids or pets, be vigilant. Some outdoor activities, like the community soccer meet at Reid Park, have shifted start times to early morning or towards sunset to avoid the worst of the heat.In the real estate market, Cathleen Itule, a name many will recognize from signs around town, has announced continued leadership in Tucson’s realty scene. She highlights steady demand and notes that, despite rising rates, Tucson’s home prices remain more accessible than Phoenix or Scottsdale. First-time buyers are finding starter homes in neighborhoods like Rita Ranch and Flowing Wells in the mid 200s.New business activity is quieter this week, but there’s excitement downtown as four new murals appeared on Congress and Sixth Avenue to mark Tucson’s 250th anniversary. Locals are stopping by to snap photos and meet some of the artists behind the brushwork.The job market is steady, with hiring continuing at Banner University Medical Center and a small uptick in manufacturing roles along Valencia near the airport. Expect seasonal postings for school support staff as districts prepare for a busy academic year.Speaking of schools, several Tucson Unified schools earned statewide recognition in the Governor’s “Bright Start” reading awards, including Sam Hughes Elementary, with Principal Maria Alvarez saying it’s all about community partnerships.In sports, high school football practice is back in full swing with coaches at Sahuaro and Desert View emphasizing hydration and safety as we brace for another week of elevated temperatures. Over at the TCC, interest in ice hockey is surging. Our lone ice rink is already maxed out as local youth leagues expand—proof that Tucson’s sporting spirit can thrive, even on ice.Today’s crime report is quieter, with the notable arrest yesterday of Michael Brown, the accused Anaconda shooter, after a standoff near Golf Links and Craycroft. Police credit swift tips from the community for his peaceful surrender. No public safety alerts at this hour, but as always, let’s keep an eye out for each other.Before we go, a feel-good story—families flocked to Palo Verde Magnet High yesterday where IMPACT Tucson’s resource fair handed out hundreds of free backpacks and school supplies. Organizers say the smiles on kids' faces are bigger than the desert sky.Thank you for tuning in and sharing your morning with us. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Local Pulse for news that matters most to Tucson. This has been Tucson Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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