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 Two Mexican Grey Wolves in their enclosure at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Photo by Bev Stanton.
This week I took two days off to spend time with out-of-town friends, former co-workers from National Parks Conservation Association. Spending time guiding out-of-town visitors to some of our great attractions reminds me, once again, that Tucson is a wonderful place to live!
Of course, we went to Saguaro National Park, and despite the rain and hail my friends were entranced by its beauty. We learned about its innovative programs from the park’s community engagement and outreach coordinator Cam Juarez (he was the first ever in this new position) and Ranger Reshaun Ramon, the first park ranger from the Tohono O’odham Nation. You can learn more about their programs here (http://tinyurl.com/yvu6cwk8) and you can visit their interactive booth at the upcoming Tucson Festival of Books.
The cold, driving rain presented a problem for our picnic lunch plans, but the day was saved by our friends at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum who let us eat in an unused classroom. The group heard Conservation Research Scientist Kim Franklin talk about the museum’s efforts to beat back invasive buffelgrass, whose spread threatens our saguaros. Earlier in the week, Kim was at our Council meeting to accept the Mayor’s Proclamation that February is Save Our Saguaros: Beat Back Buffelgrass month.
 A mountain lion at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Photo by Bev Stanton.
I’ve been to the Desert Museum dozens of times, but never in the rain. We went to a few of the outdoor exhibits, but most of the animals were smarter than us, staying sheltered and out-of-sight. We were rewarded with a close view of the mountain lion. Pacing Mexican Gray Wolves were undaunted and seemingly invigorated by the rain. Our group spent the majority of our time at the indoor or covered places including the aquarium, reptile hall, gift shop, and cave exhibit.
If you need to plan some activities for friends and family visiting here, I highly recommend consulting the websites of Tucson City of Gastronomy (https://tucson.cityofgastronomy.org/) for information about our many unique places to eat and Visit Tucson (https://www.visittucson.org/) which is our community’s visitor bureau. We have copies of their latest publication, Insiders Tucson Guide, in the Ward 3 office.
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 Bob Elliot, Ward 3 Chief of Staff Katie Bolger,Ward 3 Council Aide CJ Boyd, Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, Ward 3 Office Administrator Shannon Jenkins, Beverly Elliot. and Ward 3 Council Aide Marlene Avelino at the African American Museum
The Ward 3 office kicked off Black History Month with a visit to the African American Museum of Southern Arizona. The museum is nestled within the Student Union Memorial Center on the University of Arizona campus. Curated and run by Beverly and Bob Elliot, this small but mighty collection of artifacts displays the rich history of African Americans in Arizona.
This labor of love that began when their grandson, who had heard about African American museums in other states, asked where they could find one in Arizona. When Beverly discovered there wasn’t one anywhere in the state, her grandson (who was six at the time) offered to help set one up.
 Ward 3 staff with Bob and Beverly Elliot.
One of the exhibitions in the museum that had the greatest impact on me personally was on the Arizona buffalo soldiers. I was aware of that name applying to black soldiers in the US army after the civil war, but I did not realize that the name came from indigenous peoples identifying the thick hair of black soldiers with the buffalo that many held as sacred. We learned of many stories of these soldiers, some of whom dissented from the army and chose to live among the various indigenous nations, while others, in the name of manifest destiny, helped the US clear land of the indigenous people. Some of these black soldiers would later regret the genocide against this land’s original inhabitants that they helped perpetrate for their white leaders.
While the museum is not large, the information inside is expansive, including not only artifacts, but many QR codes that lead visitors to even more information online. The Elliots told us that, especially because they are housed on the U of A campus, and surrounded by young people, they were intentional about the use of the latest technology to bring black history into the present.
One fascinating artifact on display is a quilt, which displays various symbols that were used along the Underground Railroad as code for people escaping enslavement. If a household wanted to be of assistance to those escaping, a woman might hang a quilt with the symbol of a bear paw, which indicated that “there is a trail nearby that can help you navigate through the mountains”. Another pattern was of “flying geese” which pointed the person escaping to the North. Symbols like this, disguised as mere ornaments on a quilt allowed people to help those in need without slaveholders, their supporters, and their enablers knowing that the aide was occurring.
The Ward 3 office is grateful to Beverly and Bob Elliot for graciously hosting our staff for a tour of the museum, and providing such a valuable resource to the residents of Southern Arizona.
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 Director of Housing and Community Development Ann Chenneka, Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, Office of Innovation and Strategy Administrator Johanna Hernandez, Ward 3 Council Aides CJ Boyd, and Marlene Avelino.
One thing about working in a City Council office is that no two weeks are the same, and some weeks are busier than others. Last week seemed to be packed with meetings, mostly City staff giving our regularly scheduled monthly updates along with any new budget requests.
 Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, Public Information Officer Andy Squire, Ward 3 Chief of Staff Katie Bolger, Special Event Project Manager Joshua Rothchild, Police Lieutenant of Homeland Security/Emergency Management Michael Allen, and Ward 3 Council Aide CJ Boyd.
We met with Business Services to go over our office budget; Housing and Community Development where we discussed the need for additional security at the Tucson House; the Department of Transportation and Mobility provided updates on road projects; Parks and Recreation went over the upcoming pool schedule and touched on how the department is trying to “stabilize” the City’s aquatics program; and the Community Safety Health and Wellness office shared how they are hoping for more administrative support.
 Ward 3 Office Administrator Shannon Jenkins, Ward 3 Council Aide Marlene Avelino, Business Services Finance Manager Antonio Carranza, Business Services Finance Administrator Priscilla Lane, Ward 3 Council Aide CJ Boyd, Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl.
We also met with staff from Tucson Police Department, the City Manager's office and Special events coordinator to debrief on this year's Winterhaven Festival of Lights and how our office can work to improve the parking and trash concerns (along with a very loud-mouthed preacher) at future festivals. Other meetings included how to improve water efficiency in low income households and how to grow the local Solar Empowerment program for low-income home owners. All in a week's work!
 Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, Ward 3 Chief of Staff Katie Bolger, Ward 3 Council Aide CJ Boyd, Ward 3 Office Administrator Shannon Jenkins, CSHW Program Director Sarah Launius, and Ward 3 Council Aide Marlene Avelino.
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 February 6, 2024 Study Session and Regular Session agenda.
Study Session included an executive session for legal advice on the Establishment of Prevailing Wage Requirements and Associated Minority Contractors. Update on PFAS and the City of Tucson Water Supply. Fiscal year 2024 Financial Update and 2025 budget discussion.
Regular Session included approval of Rezoning project by Intelligent Design (Greek Orthodox Church on Ft. Lowell). Appointment and approval of the Housing and Community Development Department Director Ann Chanecka.
For the complete Study Session and Regular Agenda please click on the buttons below.
For the full coverage of the Mayor and Council meeting on February 6, 2024, please click on the button below.
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 DUKE /ID# A770517
Age: 8 years
Qualities:
This sweet senior just came back to PACC after a long stay in a foster home, and he's ready to find his family ASAP so he can get the royal treatment he deserves! Duke thrived in his foster home, where he was said to be housebroken, super smart (he knows a TON of tricks!), and the best cuddle buddy!
Fee:
Duke has a $0 adoption fee. A $20 license fee applies to adult dogs. Adoption includes spay or neuter, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchip, and a free vet visit.
Contact:
Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Rd.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 12 - 7 p.m.
Wednesday 1:30-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m - 5 p.m.
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The next Mayor and Council Meeting will be on
Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
The agenda and background materials are available here:
Mayor and Council Meeting Agendas. |
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Mountain First Neighborhood Association
Saturday 2/10, 9 - 10 am
Mitchell Park
1100 E Mitchell St.
Limberlost Neighborhood Association
Saturday 2/10, 10 - 11 am
For link to virtual meeting, please email 4LNABoard@gmail.com
La Madera In-Person Community Engagement Meeting
Saturday 2/10, 10 - 11:30 am
La Madera Park
2700 E La Madera Dr.
Balboa Heights Neighborhood Association
Tuesday 2/13, 5:30 - 7 pm
Marty Birdman Center
2536 N Castro Ave.
Alvernon-Grant Initiative
Tuesday 2/13, 6:00 - 7 pm
Emmanuel Church,
1825 N. Alvernon Way
Amphi Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/15, 6 - 7 pm
Woods Memorial Library
3455 N.1st Ave.
Sugar Hill Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/15, 6 - 7 pm, 6 - 7 pm
Donna Liggins Center
2160 N. 6th Ave.
Flowing Wells Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/15, 6 pm - 7 pm
Ellie Towne Flowing Wells Community Center
1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd.
The Ward 3 office is open open at 1510 E. Grant Rd. from
9 am -1 pm, Monday through Friday. Staff will answer phone messages, emails and requests for meetings by the next business day. Leave your message at 520-791-4711 or email ward3@tucsonaz.gov.
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Identify and Report Stinknet
$5000 Scholarship Opportunity for High School Seniors
District 5 Youth Art Contest
Tucson Parks and Recreation will host a meeting on Saturday, Feb. 17, 10-11 a.m. at McCormick Park, 2950 N. Columbus Blvd.
At ramada #1, to present the final concept plan for the park. The community will be able to talk with staff about the final plan and cost estimates.
To view the previous survey responses and see the concept plan, visit the project website here (https://bit.ly/mccormickpark). Please note, at the time of sending this email, the plan is not quite ready to be posted online, but we wanted to give ample time for notice of the meeting at the park. Another email will be sent out once the plan is live on the website.
Call to Artists! Sugarhill is looking for submissions of historic photos to be placed on vinyl banners along Stone Ave.
 We’re thrilled to announce our Sugar Hill Call for Participation, and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Call for Photos: Do you have recent or historic photos of the Sugar Hill neighborhood or its wonderful community members? We invite you to share your snapshots with us as we celebrate the rich history and vibrant life of Sugar Hill !
Some examples of photos include, but are not limited to, a historical event, a landmark, a personal journey, a cultural presence, or a significant person.
Tucson Water is testing their new Home Water Works Calculator
https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Water/Conservation/DIY-Water-Audits to sign up for this test program. This opportunity is open to the first 2,000 customers who opt-in.
Lend a Hand Senior Assistance Volunteer Opportunity
St. Francis Soup Patrol Monday- Friday at 5pm
 St. Francis Shelter Community has partnered with Caridad Kitchens to provide Ward 3 unhoused with hot soup and Hot Cocoa. We serve Monday thru Friday starting at 5 pm until soup is gone. Caridad Kitchen has done a fantastic job with providing delicious, hearty and nutritious soup. We are pleased serve from Salvation Army at 218 E Prince Rd. This is their first go with soup patrol and so far things are going well. They also have blankets, cold weather items to hand out based on various donations St. Francis Shelter Community receives.
If you'd like to volunteer please reach out to Shawn Milligan, Director of Operations at 520-461-4943.
Tucson Parks and Recreation is getting ready to design Phase 2 projects at La Madera Park, 2700 E La Madera Dr. Saturday, Feb. 10, 10-11:30 am
Below are the projects outlined in the bond. Give us your feedback on the proposed projects.
Phase 2
- New walking path
- New splash pad
- Renovate irrigation system
Join us at the park to talk with staff about the future improvements at this park including a new splash pad, walking path, and irrigation.
Take the survey to provide your feedback on the planned improvements. The survey will close on Sunday, Feb. 18.
Prince Food Pantry 7-8:30 am the First Friday of Every Month
Yoga in the Garden Every Wednesday at 2 pm
Grocery Sharing at Tucson Food Share - 2500 N. Stone Ave.
 Groceries are shared Mondays 4:30- 6:00 pm,
Thursdays 6:00 - 7:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8am-9:30am.
https://tucsonfoodshare.org/ has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.
Ready, Set, REC! in January
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The Primavera Foundation would like to invite you to our follow up Convening specific to “Workforce Development - Part 2” on Monday February 12 at 9am.
Film Screening: The Biology of Stress February 15 5:30-7:30 pm
Turbeville Speaker Series with Dr. Maurice Magana on February 16 at 1 pm
The Pima County Health Department (PCHD) is in the beginning stages of surveying for their 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA)
By actively participating in the survey, you contribute to ensuring that the CHNA better reflects the health priorities of Pima County. Kindly take and share the survey before it closes on February 28th.
El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Pima (PCHD) se encuentra en las etapas iniciales de la encuesta para su Evaluación de Necesidades de Salud Comunitaria (CHNA) de 2024.
Al participar en la encuesta, usted contribuye a garantizar que la CHNA refleje mejor las prioridades de salud del condado de Pima. Por favor responda y comparta la encuesta antes del 28 de febrero.
ChangeMakers Grant Program For Small Businesses
Launch, Grow, or Invest With Up to $10,000 in Grant Funding
Even though it may seem like business-as-usual, we know our small business community continues to struggle post-pandemic. Groundswell Capital* a nonprofit financial institution dedicated to equity, sustainability, and innovation has partnered with the City of Tucson to invest one million dollars in our entrepreneurs and small businesses.
These funds can be used to start or grow a company in Tucson. We are investing in upskilling our workforce and greening our communities. We are celebrating and telling the stories of the small businesses that are the heart of our city.
Applications accepted until February 11, 2024.
*Groundswell Capital is a new support organization for the Tucson IDA who has been investing in small business and affordable housing Tucson since 1979.
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Join an Info Session or Office Hours
We are hosting bilingual events throughout the month of January to spread the word and assist small businesses with their applications. Review our calendar of events for more details and links for virtual sessions. Kickoff Info Session Jan 9th.
The Homing Project mystery Dinner Theater Tuesday February 13 from 6-9pm
Paul Cunningham's Afterschool Wednesday Hoops for Kids Starting January 24 from 3-5 pm at Jesse Owens Park
Almost 4 million middle schoolers in the US are left unsupervised between 3 pm and 6 pm.
TUSD kids have an extra hour of unsupervised time because Wednesday is early out day. Every Wednesday during the school year, Ward 2 hosts Wednesday afternoon hoops at the covered court at Jesse Owens park. Each week, members of the Tucson Buckets (Tucson's semi-pro ABA team) join TUSD middle schoolers for a mini clinic that focuses on technical basketball and having fun. Ward 2 provides drinks and snacks and we just bought a portable electronic scoreboard!
Lead Hazard Reduction Program From Older Homes
Prevent Lead Exposure in Your Home
Programa de Control de Peligros de Pintura a Base de Plomo
Home Repair Program for Low income Homeowners
Tucson Water Discounts
Call 520-791-5443 to make an appointment or visit this site for more information: https://www.tucsonaz.gov/water/low-income-assistance-program
We welcome your feedback!
Please feel free to email us at Ward3@tucsonaz.gov
To subscribe to this newsletter go to https://www.tucsonaz.gov/ward-3
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