Weekend wrap-up: Here are the biggest Arizona stories from Oct. 1-3

PHOENIX — Chandler-based Bashas will be aquired by a California company, Phoenix ZooLights returns in Novemeber, and a developer announced plans for its $41 million office campus transformation in downtown Tempe.

Here are some of the biggest stories that headlined the Arizona news cycle over the weekend.

Chandler-based grocer Bashas’ to be acquired by California company

Chandler-based Bashas’ announced Friday that it had signed an agreement to be acquired by Raley’s Holding Company, a grocer from California.

All Arizona store banners, employment and operations will continue without change or interruption, Edward “Trey” Basha, president and CEO of Bashas’, and Keith Knopf, president and CEO of Raley’s Holding Company, said in a joint video presentation on Friday to Bashas’ workers.

The Basha family will forfeit ownership roles as part of the agreement.

The transaction, expected to close by the end of 2021, guarantees the continuation of Bashas’ store service across Arizona and New Mexico while allowing Bashas’ to be a fully formed operating company within Raley’s enterprise.

Phoenix ZooLights returns to Valley in November with drive-thru concept

With the holiday season approaching, more festivities are underway across the Valley.

The popular Phoenix ZooLights will return Nov. 24 through Jan. 15, with two ways to experience the magic.

Visitors can choose between the classic walk-through journey or a socially distanced cruise through the zoo from their own car. Tickets went on sale Friday.

The Phoenix Zoo first introduced the drive-thru concept to guests last year with Cruise the Zoo. It has been transformed to fit their annual holiday event.

Developer announces plans for $41M downtown Tempe office transformation

A Phoenix-based developer announced plans on Thursday for its $41 million, five-building office campus transformation in downtown Tempe.

The new project will replace the landmark Hayden Station as the new “Arbor” with renovations scheduled to begin in Q4 2021 and end during Q3 2022.

It’s set to include a $18 million renovation under a design theme of “urban organic” that will transform the campus into an office and retail destination.

When finished, Arbor, which is located near Mill Avenue and Third Street, will total approximately 124,148 square feet with four two-story buildings and a single five-story office building.

Walk-On’s Sports on track to bring a taste of Louisiana to Arizona

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux will embark on its first Valley location this January, bringing more game day atmosphere and a taste of Louisiana to Arizona.

The new restaurant will open in Mesa in January 2022 near Power Road, south of Loop 202 in Gilbert Gateway Towne Center.

The 7,500-square-foot space will feature 75 TV’s, 48 beers on tap and Louisiana-inspired cuisine, officials announced in a press release.

19th Mountainside Fitness location opened Saturday in southeast Mesa

Valley gym chain Mountainside Fitness opened its 19th location Saturday in southeast Mesa.

The 40,000-square-foot club is located at 9311 E. Cadence Parkway, near Ellsworth and Ray roads in the Eastmark community.

Amenities at the new facility include three group fitness studios, an outside workout area, child care and a café.

The club, which is near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, will be open 4:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 4:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

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