David Trujillo, Promotions and Events Manager at UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, wore many hats over the years. He started as a dishwasher for 347 Grill when UltraStar first opened in 2012, and by 2013 Trujillo worked in the restaurant’s office, handling all shipping and receiving. In 2014, he took a position in sales and marketing for UltraStar, which ultimately led to his current role as Promotions and Events Manager.

Before his start at the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, Trujillo made audiences laugh as a stand-up comedian in the Tucson area. He built a following and later used these connections and experiences to create the DT Comedy Show for the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle. The Comedy shows, now hosted by UltraStar four times a year, fill the theatre of 300 with a variety of regional comedians, including Trujillo.

Trujillo uses everyday life to inspire his comedy routines, taking ideas from family, friends and work experiences. He also journals a joke every day, using this material on stage. In addition to the popular comedy show, Trujillo has hosted or coordinated other popular events at the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle including car shows and indoor and outdoor concerts. Recently he organized Ringside Unified Fighting Mixed Martial Arts wrestling, presenting 15 fights in one night!

One of Trujillo’s recent proud accomplishments was attending the annual Tejano Music Convention in Las Vegas in 2015 and gaining the reputation as a professional Tejano music broker. Because of this success, renowned Tejano accordionist Ramon Ayala contacted Trujillo, and the two built a professional relationship. Trujillo later booked an outdoor concert showcasing Ayala last year at UltraStar, and it was a huge success, with over 3,000 people in attendance. Trujillo also booked Las Fenix, a popular all-female Tejano band, for a capacity show in spring 2018. The show was so successful they had to turn fans away.

Trujillo is always looking for new events and twists to bring people to the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle for a good time. Most recently he created a game show in the Luxe Lounge on Friday nights, called “The Answer is” — a Family Feud-style faceoff between two teams of four people. This game show became so popular that on Fridays the Luxe Lounge is packed with guests who come to participate in or watch the show while they enjoy live comedy too!

When he’s not working, Trujillo loves to ride his motorcycle, and he enjoys vanilla ice cream with his young daughter plus playing loads of video games with his son. Trujillo was introduced to his wife by Ak-Chin Community Council Chairman Robert Miguel during an interview by the local magazine “In Maricopa.”  Planned as it was, it was meant to be for the young couple with the help of a good friend.

Those who know Trujillo personally enjoy his infectious wit. Is he funny all the time, or does he have a serious side? While Trujillo has enjoyed career success, he says he struggles with being serious. While he was raised to respect and be kind to others, heavily influenced by his grandfather, Trujillo says his parents and family were always playing jokes on each other. “It was our way of life,” Trujillo said with a grin.

Next time you visit the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, make sure to say “hello” to Promotions and Events Manager David Trujillo!

An American icon, Cadillac vehicles symbolize luxury, comfort and style. Though today’s high-end automobile market offers several choices, the Cadillac still provides a worthy option. Test drive a Cadillac today at one of two Earnhardt Cadillac dealerships — Earnhardt Chandler Cadillac or Earnhardt Cadillac in Scottsdale. An article in AutoTrader.com, “Should You Consider Cadillac?” highlights some updates Cadillac recently made to some models to help them compete in today’s auto market.

The CT6 is dubbed as the “newest, most advanced and ultimately most impressive new Cadillac on the market.” The sedan features state-of-the-art engineering, according to the article, but with a lightweight platform and body. The car’s interior features “an eye-catching design that won’t be confused for anything from Germany — it’s proudly American and befitting a modern Cadillac.” Similar in size, the CTS offers another worthy option with “exceptional” handling, says the AutoTrader article. The CTS-V high-performance version features a 640 horsepower supercharged V8 at a competitive price.

Other newer models include the Cadillac XT4 and XT5, both provide stylish crossovers. The Cadillac introduced the XT4 for 2018. The XT5 debuted in 2017 and has been a best-seller, according to the article. Both models feature spacious, luxurious interiors, complete with the latest in technology. Available tech features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, on-board Wi-Fi and a customizable menu. The XT4 even offers available massaging seats for the ultimate in driving comfort. To coin a phrase, this is not your father’s Cadillac!

When you’re ready to shop for a new or used Cadillac, visit one of two Earnhardt Cadillac dealerships. Earnhardt Cadillac is located at 7901 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. in Scottsdale, and Earnhardt Chandler Cadillac is located at 1450 S. Gilbert Road in Chandler. In addition to classic American cars, at either Earnhardt Cadillac dealership you’ll find the same No-Bull service that you’ve come to expect from the Earnhardt Auto Centers family. And that ain’t no bull!

Ryan Bader, son-in-law of Hal Earnhardt, recently won the Mixed Martial Arts Bellator World Title. The Earnhardt family is proud of Bader and his accomplishments!

Bader is champion in both the Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight divisions, and he currently competes with Bellator Mixed Martial Arts. Nicknamed “Darth Bader,” he is ranked as the number two Light Heavyweight and the number eight pound-for-pound fighter in the world by MMAJunkie.com.

 

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Got back home to AZ today. Man what a fun weekend. Shoutout to the people who came out to support, old fans, new fans, and of course the team, friends and family. We got it done! @daisybader

A post shared by Ryan Bader (@ryanbader) on Jan 29, 2019 at 7:08pm PST

Before signing with Bellator, Bader achieved success as a top 5 Light Heavyweight contender with a UFC record of 15-5. Bader wrestled in high school in Reno, Nevada, ranking as high as fourth in the country. He attended Arizona State University and was a three-time Pac-10 Champion, winning titles in 2003-2004 and 2006. Bader began training at Arizona Combat Sports in early 2007.

Bader joined the Earnhardt family with his marriage to Daisy, Hal Earnhardt’s daughter and Tex Earnhardt’s granddaughter. Bader and his wife live in Chandler and have three children.

The Earnhardt team believes in treating their customers like family. With 21 locations in Arizona and Nevada representing 17 brands, Earnhardt Auto Centers is one of the most recognizable automobile dealerships in the Southwest.

Earnhardt patriarch Tex Earnhardt started his first Ford dealership in Chandler at the age of 21. As business grew, Tex gained fame as the straight-shooting cowboy in the “No Bull” commercials. Over the years, Tex’s children and grandchildren joined him in the business.

While the Earnhardt’s have seen great success, they remember the values that helped to build their business. Tex and his family believe in treating everyone like family. As Tex Earnhardt says, “Treat everyone the way you would treat your mama!”

The Earnhardt’s are proud of family member Ryan Bader’s awards, and they congratulate him for his achievements!

Golf fans know Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, which offers Troon golf right here in Maricopa. Located on-site, Arroyo Grille provides the perfect meal for any occasion. Some new features and events make both spots even better!

Grab a quick bite from the new Freddy’s Corner during your next golf round. Each day, golfers can enjoy a different made-to-order item for $9 plus tax. There’s no set menu, just one featured item offered each day. So far, the delicious fare has included a prime rib sandwich, Italian sausage with peppers and a smoked pulled-pork sandwich. It’s just the thing for lunch between rounds!

The next time you’re planning to play Ak-Chin Southern Dunes, make it a Caddiemaster Round. You can book your package online or by calling 520-426-6827, and a forecaddie will meet you at the course. Your forecaddie will help you navigate the course, rate your bunkers and clean your clubs, all while you enjoy one of your favorite golf courses. Make a good golf game even better with a Caddiemaster Round!

When you’re hungry on or off the golf course, Arroyo Grille is sure to please. In addition to offering a delectable menu, Arroyo Grille hosts great events throughout the year, like beer- and wine-tasting sessions and outdoor concerts.

On Saturday, February 16, Runnin’ on MT returns for a show on the Arroyo Grille patio. Music starts at 5 p.m., and they play until 7:30 p.m. Come on over and enjoy music and dinner! Try the Saturday special, a prime rib dinner for just $22. Reservations are recommended; call 520-426-6832.

There are more events happening in February. Beer Tasting from Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales, Thursday, February 21st starting at 5:00 pm, $5 per person for 5 tastings,  plus a Wine and Dinner special coming Saturday, February 23rd.

Other weekly dinner specials at Arroyo Grille include the classic fish fry on Wednesdays for $13 and the Kansas City strip and fries on Thursdays for $13. The prime rib special is offered most Friday and Saturday nights for $22.

When you’re looking for a great place to play golf or to grab a delicious bite, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club and Arroyo Grille make for a hole in one!

Members of the Ak-Chin Community Council work hard to develop and advance the Community while protecting its cultural and environmental integrity. This team works well together and has made strides in working with neighboring communities while moving forward in community services and development.

One of the most visible symbols of this team’s success is the multi-million dollar expansion at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. Completed areas include the spa, a conference center with multiple ballrooms and meeting rooms, a parking garage, additional restaurants and more than 200 additional rooms. The resort’s new tower is 17 stories high and is joined to the casino by a pedestrian bridge called the Skyway. Throughout the casino, the gaming floor was refurbished with games restored on a new floor.

Two new restaurants on site offer specialty food in comfortable atmospheres. Oak and Fork features quality wine paired with small plates. And Chop, Block and Brew specializes in gourmet burgers, steak and seafood cooked over a wood-burning mesquite grill.

Another accomplishment, the Ak-Chin Indian Community Tribal Transit started in winter 2017, offering free transportation to all within the community. Riders can use regularly scheduled routes or call for demand-response service within Community boundaries.

Members of the Ak-Chin Community Council also represented the Community at sponsored events. One of the best-known local events is the Waste Management Phoenix Open presented by the Ak-Chin Indian Community. The Community served as the event’s presenting sponsor since 2016.

The 2017 Waste Management Phoenix Open Presented by The Ak-Chin Indian Community pumped $389 million into Arizona’s economy according to an economic impact study by the Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business.

Another popular event hosted in part by the Community Council, the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI) happens each summer. Teams travelled to represent Native American tribes from across the country and around the world. In addition to exciting basketball competition, the event also strives to support Native American youth with programs that encourage higher education, sports, health and wellness and community.

The Ak-Chin Community Council also oversees the Ak-Chin Endowment, benefitting the Indian Legal Program at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. The endowment provides scholarships for anyone interested in learning about and pursuing a career in Indian law, according to a Pinal Central article.

While the scholarship is open to non-Native Americans, Ak-Chin Chairman Robert Miguel noted in the article that he hopes it will increase interest in studying law among members of the area’s Indian tribes.

Your Ak-Chin Community Council members are Chairman Robert Miguel, Vice Chairman Gabriel Lopez, and members Alvin Antone, Ann Marie Antone, Delia M. Carlyle. Here’s to a job well done by this outstanding team!

Earnhardt Lexus hosts its annual Off the Record Fundraiser for Phoenix Children’s Hospital on Saturday, November 10 from 7:00-11:30 p.m. It’ll be a good time for a great cause!

“As a family owned and operated business in Arizona, we are proud to support the leading children’s hospital that does so much to support families and children of Arizona!”

Hosted at the Earnhardt Lexus showroom, Off the Record is a one-night-only party with live music from recording artist Russell Dickerson. Emerging country music star Dickerson’s single, “Yours,” and its later-released extended-play version, both received popular reviews. The extended-play version reached Number 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. The popularity of this song netted Dickerson a spot on the iTunes Best of 2015 list, and also on TheKnot.com’s list of best wedding songs of 2016.

Over 400 guests will join the PCH50 on November 10 at this intimate party of music, drinks, food and fun. PCH50 is a group of 50 community leaders who generate support for Phoenix Children’s Hospital through fundraising, volunteer efforts and awareness building.

Tickets for the Off the Record fundraiser are $1,000 per couple and include admission, beverages, heavy appetizers and an Off the Record T-shirt. Tickets are now available online.

You can also support Phoenix Children’s Hospital by following them on Instagram! Earnhardt Lexus has pledged to donate $1 for each new Instagram follower that @friendsofPCH receives, up to $6,500, to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation.

The Phoenix Children’s Foundation uses donations to help improve the lives of Phoenix Children’s Hospital patients and families. Please make a difference today by following @friendsofPCH on Instagram! Tag your friends and share to help @friendsofPCH reach its goal of 10,000 followers!

Since 1983, the mission of Phoenix Children’s Hospital has been to provide hope, healing and the best possible healthcare to children. It is the only freestanding pediatric hospital in Arizona, and it’s the sixth largest children’s hospital in the nation.

Buy your tickets today, or follow @friendsofPCH now to help this worthy cause!

World Long Drive, Ak-Chin Smash in the Sun, event tees off at Ak-Chin Circle Field next to the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle May 11-15.

Watch top golf talent and rising amateur stars at the Ak-Chin Smash in the Sun event in May! The Ak-Chin Indian Community partnered with the World Long Drive Association (WLDA) to host this tournament May 11-15.

This is the first time the WLDA event has been hosted in Arizona. Local and regional open qualifying events kick things off on Friday and Saturday, May 11-12. For $40, golfers can compete in the qualifiers, with eight swings to show their skill.

The match will ultimately feature a field of 32 male and 16 female competitors in the Open division. Preliminary rounds held on Monday and Tuesday will narrow the field to eight men and four women. These finalists will advance to compete in an afternoon round on Tuesday, May 14, which will be televised live on Golf Channel. If you can’t join us, make sure you tune in!

The tournament also hosts a Masters Division, with players selected by invitation. The Master’s players compete in preliminary rounds on Saturday, May 12 starting at 4 p.m., with division match play scheduled at 6 p.m.

This event takes place on Ak-Chin Circle Field next to the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle on a natural grass golf range being constructed specifically for the tournament. Stadium seating and ADA-accessible seating will be available. Admission is free for spectators. The UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle will host an on-site concession stand with a menu of snacks and beverages.

Get up early if you plan to attend —Preliminary rounds begin at 8 a.m. on Monday and 9 a.m. on Tuesday.

The World Long Drive Association brings together golf’s longest hitters from around the world. Long Drive events are dubbed as one of golf’s most popular grassroots competitions, open to amateur and professional golfers.

Don’t miss the chance to see this incredible golf competition right in your backyard! For more info, visit http://ultrastaraz.com/WLD

Unleash your inner artist! Join the next Art & Sip on Monday, December 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the 347 Grill in the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle. Local artist Kaui Wilson will inspire artists at this fun evening event.

Whether you’re a hobbyist who wants to learn more, a professional looking for inspiration, or if you’re just looking for a fun night out, you’ll love Art & Sip! Grab some friends or your significant other and make a night of it. You’ll follow simple steps to paint your very own wintry landscape painting while enjoying some tasty libations.

The Art & Sip event is back by popular demand and will be hosted by 347 Grill. The cost is $30 for advanced bookings or $40 at the door. Reserve and pay for your space now online.

While you’re painting, enjoy happy hour specials at 347 Grille, available until 7 p.m. Specials include $3 drink specials and 50% off most appetizers. Monday night also features a $5 cheeseburger meal. Or enjoy tempting choices from the vast menu, which includes full salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and specialty entrees like salmon, steak, or smothered chicken.

Artist Kaui Wilson lives in Maricopa with her husband and three kids. She has had formal training as an animator and graphic designer and has earned both an associate’s and a bachelor’s degree. Through her business Art & Sip, Kaui teaches painting and drawing classes to groups at local taverns, restaurants, and in private homes. It’s the perfect choice for a girls’ night out or a special occasion!

The fun is happening at 347 Grill, located inside the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, 16000 N. Maricopa Road in Maricopa. When you come, spend time checking out our other fun activities including the arcade, movies, bowling, and laser tag.

During this busy holiday season, take a night off with friends or a loved one and head to Art & Sip for a great time!

Once the Thanksgiving turkey is finished, it’s time to get serious about holiday shopping and events. Visit the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle for a festive season and great gift ideas!

On Friday and Saturday, November 24 and 25, bring the kids to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in the lobby from 5-7 p.m. During the month of December, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting from 5-7 p.m. on:

• Sunday, December 3
• Sunday, December 10
• Saturday, December 16
• Sunday, December 17
• Thursday, December 21
• Friday, December 22, and
• Saturday, December 23.

When you set out for Black Friday shopping, make sure the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center is on your list of stops! Stocking Stuffer specials offer incredible deals on gift packages, and are available on Friday, November 24 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the retail store only. For $25, get an amusement wristband voucher, a $5 gift card, a Ten Pins Down keychain and candy. Or for $50, get a family four-pack of bowling, laser tag, and arcade; a $10 gift card; a Ten Pins Down keychain; and candy. The 2018 Loyalty Package features a 2018 loyalty cup for discounted drink refills and a 2018 popcorn card for discount popcorn all year long with a $10 gift card, all for $39.95. These specials are available on Black Friday only. Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

If you prefer online shopping, visit the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle website for great Cyber Monday deals! Spend $50 on gift cards, and you’ll receive a Master Blaster wristband voucher and a Ten Pins Down keychain. Or, spend $100 on gift cards to receive a Fun Package wristband voucher and a Ten Pins Down keychain. These specials are available all day on Monday, November 27, online only.

For the Star Wars fans on your list, you can now purchase tickets to see Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The movie releases Friday, December 15—an early holiday gift for your favorite Jedi?

For more information, visit the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle website at  www.ultrastaraz.com. You’ll please everyone on your holiday gift list!

“Only the Brave,” the movie that tells the story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, opens nationwide on Friday, October 20. Starring: Josh Brolin, Miles Teller, Jeff Bridges, James Badge Dale, with Taylor Kitsch and Jennifer Connelly.

Few will forget the 20 men known as the Granite Mountain Hotshots and their battle against the Yarnell Hill fire near Prescott. Nineteen of those firefighters died on June 30, 2013 after becoming trapped in a circle of fire. Only one firefighter survived in what was one of the deadliest wildfires in recent US history.

Family, friends and officials have worked hard to preserve the memories of the 19 deceased firefighters. The town of Yarnell has honored the Granite Mountain Hotshots with a unique tribute, a rugged hiking trail that climbs the side of the mountain where the men died. Each of the fallen 19 hotshots is memorialized along the trail with a plaque. The movie provides another tribute to these heroes.

During the month of October, Papa John’s and Cowboy Lifestyle Network team up to benefit wildland firefighters from throughout the West. Go to www.papajohns.com and use the Promo Code WFF40 to get 40 percent off regular menu price items, with 10 percent of your discounted purchase price donated to the Wildland Firefighters Foundation (WFF). This offer is valid October 1-31 in limited cities within Arizona, Oregon, Wyoming, Illinois, Missouri and Kansas.

Based in Boise, Idaho, Wildland Firefighters Foundation provides aid to firefighters injured while battling grass or forest fires throughout the West. Support could include assistance with travel costs to bring family members to the bedside of an injured firefighter, or help with replacing lost wages during a firefighter’s medical leave. The Foundation also provides support and memorials to families of fallen firefighters.

Don’t miss your chance to see “Only the Brave” this October! Also, make sure to order some great food from Papa John’s with the WFF40 code to help provide support to worthy wildland firefighters from throughout the West!

Donate To The Wildland Firefighter Foundation

Dierks Bentley Writes and Records “Hold The Light” for The Movie ‘Only The Brave’

The distinctive vocals of multiplatinum singer/songwriter and Arizona native Dierks Bentley resonate throughout “Hold The Light,” his first-ever song written and recorded for a motion picture. The new song honors and embodies the spirit of the true heroism depicted in the film.

SAVE 40% OFF Papa John’s Pizza & Help Wildland Firefighters With Promo Code WFF40