Teachers have a difficult job and have always strived for better pay. For Florence Unified School District teachers and special education-related personnel, a raise may soon be coming their way. Base-pay increases of $9,000 for special education staff and a $1,500 cost of living increase for all teachers will soon be contemplated by the FUSD board and voted on in February.

Just down the road in Coolidge, the city will be hosting a community meeting on Thursday, where residents can connect with city and county representatives. Inside the Coolidge Council Chambers, residents will hear from Coolidge Mayor Jon Thompson, County Attorney Kent Volkmer, Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh and more.

And are you a fan of bluegrass music? Well, we have a complete guide for subscribers on what to expect at the Pinal County Agri-Country Bluegrass Festival on Saturday, Jan. 28. Acts from near and far will be at the Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center and bring people together with their signature style of music.