Playground at Crossroads at Silverbell District Park.
The Best of the Northwest Awards were released by Tucson Local Media on Wednesday, and the Town of Marana fared very well. The awards, which are voted on by readers of the Explorer, Marana News, and Foothills News, look at a wide variety of categories including public and private entities, and individuals.
Crossroads at Silverbell District Park was named the top park.
“Crossroads has more amenities than just about any other in the area,” the publications wrote. “Volleyball courts, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a dog park and playgrounds lay right to the side of The Loop walking and cycling path.”
Two Town of Marana officials were also voted tops in their categories.
Marana Mayor Ed Honea was named Best Community Leader.
“Marana and the name Honea just go hand-in-hand, and Ed Honea is doing well for the five-generation Marana family,” they wrote. “Sitting his third separate term, Honea graduated from Marana High School, is a Vietnam War veteran and truly a man of his community.”
Marana Town Council Member Dave Bowen was the runner up in the award.
Marana Police Department Chief Terry Rozema was selected the Best Police Officer.
“With decades of experience in his field, Chief Terry Rozema leads his department by example,” said the publication. “Though he spent a great deal of his career with the Tucson Police Department, Chief Rozema has made a positive impression over the years on the residents and officers in Marana.”
MPD Sgt. Jeff Pridgett was third in the voting.
Marana had a place in two of the best biking trails. The Pima County Shared Use path, or the Loop as it is known, has several miles of pathways in the town and was the winner of the category.
The Tortolita Preserve Loop finished second for best biking trail.
Several Marana-based businesses also won their categories.
Best Bookstore: Bookmans Entertainment Exchane
Best Hotel/Resort: Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain
Best Shopping Center: Tucson Premium Outlets
Best Physical Therapy Provider: ProActive Physical Therapy
Best Deli/Sandwich Shop: Baggin’s Gourmet Sandwiches
