Staying active, being involved with the community, and his dog Cocobear’s endless love for the veterans keeps Tony young and moving!
Tony DeMaio and his beloved dog Cocobear start every day with a walk while enjoying the deep orange sun rising over the mountains. Tony has always led an active lifestyle and he certainly does not intend to slow down in retirement. He and Cocobear golf at least twice a week and are regulars at the Sun City Health Clubs three times a week. Tony, a former football coach at UCLA and former gym owner, celebrates the value of an active lifestyle and continues to encourage those around him. “It does take discipline and effort, but losing your health and mobility is much worse,” Tony emphasizes.
Before moving to Sun City, Tony was involved in many business ventures including some that focused on charitable fundraising. In 2006 Tony founded Big Media USA, which is a digital publication/podcast platform. Big Media USA is designed to connect businesses and non-profits, and has produced over 22,000 podcasts! Tony also uses this platform to bridge the disconnect between veteran generations by further expanding his online community to connect young veterans to resources and local Legion Posts. As a proud Legion member himself, Tony holds the title of American Legion Area 5 Communications Officer which encompasses 110 Posts in Southern California. Tony’s first involvement in helping veterans was with Project Hero, riding in 7-day cycling events with 200 veterans across various parts of our country. In addition to these endeavors, “retired” Tony also continues to be involved with the community, which keeps him moving. “Connecting with people is a key to life in the desert and attending several Chamber, American Legion and networking meetings monthly is great for business and finding new golf partners,” Tony states.
Tony’s constant sidekick Cocobear, a rescue from the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and now a service dog, is also very involved with veterans. Cocobear spent the first 3 years of his life in the shelter – until Tony came along. “Go rescue a dog, it will change your life!” Tony declares wholeheartedly. Cocobear expresses his joy and endless love within the community and, as a service dog to veterans, he senses their need for companionship and love and cuddles up to the veterans they visit and socialize with. “He is a great comfort to this community,” Tony affirms. Tony is happy to report that many local businesses provide water and dog biscuits for our loyal canine companions. One retailer offering them is True Value Hardware, Cocobear’s favorite daily stop.
If you would like to reach out to your fellow neighbor Tony, feel free to send him an email at [email protected]
Upcoming Events Tony is involved with:
Cruise Night on El Paseo reoccurs from November – April from, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on El Paseo. Visit www.elpaseocruisenight.com for more information.
American Legion Annual Charity Golf Tournament Legion Golf Classic held on October 8, 2022, at the Classic Club. Tony is also a Co-Chairman of the Legion Golf Classic. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Goodie Bag. To join this event or for sponsorship opportunities contact: Amado Salinas II: 760-835-0739, email [email protected] or visit GolfLegion.org
25th Annual Tour de Palm Springs in Coachella Valley. “Honoring First Responders and Veterans” on February 11, 2023. Visit www.tourdepalmsprings.com for more details.
