Grande Central Station Celebrates a Year of Renewal and Community Spirit

Marge Jantz
Oct 11
2 min read

This year has been one of progress, creativity, and heartfelt community pride at Grande Central Station, Inc. (GCS). As we mark our fourth anniversary, we’re reflecting on a season filled with milestones that celebrate Casa Grande’s rich roadside history — and the people who make preservation possible.

Paul, the Waver, Returns to Welcome You

One of our most joyful moments came on September 10, 2025, with the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony at the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Office. The event celebrated the arrival of a brand-new Paul, the Waver — designed by artist Jude Cook of Cook & Co. Signmakers in Tucson — who now stands proudly to greet travelers once again.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the Casa Grande Historic Preservation Commission, GCS, and generous community donations, this beloved roadside icon is waving once more.

The Windmill Roadside Attraction® Shines Bright

The Windmill Roadside Attraction® continues to grow as a symbol of local creativity and collaboration. This year’s accomplishments include:

Receiving Trademark Certification and installing QR Code and Sponsorship plaques for visitors to learn more.
Completing the Horse Shoe Motel story plaque pedestal repair and adding a metal Citrus Tree sculpture by artist Josh Smith, completing the Arizona Five Cs theme.
Installing welcome signage at the Sacaton Street entrance.
Dedicating a memorial bench donated by Cindy Patterson in honor of her late husband and artist Larry Patterson, marking the official completion of the Windmill project.

This $55,380 endeavor was entirely funded by our loyal community members — a testament to the pride Casa Grande takes in preserving its character and history.

Building Awareness and Connections

Grande Central Station welcomed visitors from near and far, hosting Tour West America/Caywood Farms bus tours, LDS Singles Group, and CARE. The Neon Sign Park also received wonderful coverage in the Arizona Republic through stories by Douglas C. Towne and Roger Naylor, shining a light on the city’s distinctive heritage.

Donations from visitors — more than $1,300 collected in the Neon Sign Park safe between June 2023 and September 2025 — funded new LED bulbs for the Ralph’s Café sign and contributed to the creation of the new Paul, the Waver.

Looking Ahead

With two new board members joining the team, an updated website and rack card, and the establishment of the Ruth A. Kramer Historical Projects Memorial Fund, GCS is looking toward the future with optimism and gratitude.

Join Us in Keeping the Light On

Our success depends on the passion and support of our community. Here’s how you can help keep Casa Grande’s stories shining bright:

Visit the Neon Sign Park and Windmill Roadside Attraction®.
Donate to the Historical Projects Memorial Fund to help maintain and expand our preservation efforts.
Volunteer or spread the word — share your photos, stories, and enthusiasm for our city’s one-of-a-kind heritage.
Stay connected through our website and social media for updates, events, and restoration news.