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September Letter from
Council Member Fimbres
Dear Friends,
September is National Hispanic Heritage Month. I am honored to reflect on and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the Hispanic community to our city, state, and nation. This annual observance, which runs from September 15 to October 15, offers a special opportunity to recognize and honor the rich cultural heritage, history, and achievements of Hispanic Americans.
In Tucson, we are fortunate to be enriched by the vibrant and diverse Hispanic community that has played an integral role in shaping our city's identity. From the arts and education to business and public service, Hispanic individuals and families have left a permanent mark on our community. Their dedication, creativity, and resilience have been instrumental in fostering the cultural richness and economic vitality that define Tucson. They work hard to ensure that these qualities are instilled in their children. These children grow up to be our future, and it is amazing to see how their own dreams, desires, and contributions impact our environment in ways we could never imagine.
Arizona benefits immensely from the contributions of Hispanic residents. The state's history is deeply intertwined with Hispanic heritage, dating back to its earliest days. Hispanic leaders and pioneers have made significant strides in various fields, from agriculture and education to healthcare and technology, driving innovation and progress across the region. Hispanics have also made significant progress at the local, state, and federal level. Many have reached positions of leadership and have demonstrated in words and in actions what it means to be a true leader. Examples of this include Governor Raúl Castro, who was Arizona’s first Hispanic governor, former U.S. Representative Ed Pastor, who was Arizona’s first Hispanic member of Congress, and most recently, Mayor Regina Romero, who is Tucson’s first Latina woman mayor. Other examples include former Pima County Supervisor Dan Eckstrom, current U.S. Representative Raúl Grijalva, former Ward 5 Council Member Steve Leal, and Dr. Richard Carmona, our country’s first ever Hispanic Surgeon General. Hispanics have also made progress abroad. A recent example of this is the country of Mexico, who elected its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
As we celebrate this month, let us take pride in the vibrant cultural tapestry that the Hispanic community contributes to Tucson and beyond. Together, we can honor their legacy and work toward a future where every person’s heritage is respected and celebrated.
As always, please get in touch with us with any questions or concerns. My staff will be more than happy to assist you. We can be reached at (520) 791-4231, or you can send us an email at ward5@tucsonaz.gov.
Sincerely,
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 Your Ward 5 Council Member
Welcome Captain Flores!
The Ward 5 Council Office is honored to welcome Captain Dominic Flores to Tucson Police Department – Operations Division South.
Captain Flores is a first-generation American, and homegrown Tucsonan. He grew up on the Southside of town, attending kindergarten through 8th grade at St. John's The Evangelist on Ajo Way. He graduated from Salpointe Catholic High School in 1996 and immediately joined the Arizona Air National Guard on Valencia Rd.
Captain Flores recently retired from the Air National Guard after 27 years of service where he attained the highest enlisted grade of Chief Master Sergeant. He joined TPD in 2000 where he’s held a myriad of assignments. He promoted to captain in 2022 and assumed command of Operations Division South in July of 2024. Most importantly to him, he's been married to Florina (also a homegrown Tucsonan and Tucson High graduate) for over 21 years, and they have two boys together, Diego and Destino. He’s super excited for this opportunity to build relationships with community members so that we can all work together to solve problems!
Renaming Sixth Avenue Underpass
to honor Donovan Durband
The City of Tucson Department of Transportation and Mobility (DTM), along with the City Council Ward 6 Office, the Rio Nuevo District, the Donovan Durband Supports Tucson Foundation, and artist Stephen Farley are proposing to honor and recognize the late Donovan Durband by naming the Historic Sixth Avenue Underpass the “Donovan Durband Historic Sixth Avenue Underpass”
As part of the process to rename city-owned assets, DTM is seeking public input and feedback on the commemorative naming of the Sixth Avenue Underpass.
Mr. Durband’s participation in the revitalization of Downtown Tucson was widespread and deeply valued by all those who love Tucson. His contributions as Tucson Downtown Alliance Director, Ward 6 Council Aide, and Park Tucson Administrator were combined with the tireless work he did on his own time to help return Downtown Tucson to its rightful place as the vital heart of the Tucson community.
As part of the commemorative renaming of the Sixth Avenue Underpass, the underpass will be refurbished with murals and two-feet by three-feet photographed historic Tucson postcards made of baked porcelain enamel full color panels.
Please email michael.graham@tucsonaz.gov and provide comment and feedback on this project. The deadline to comment is 5 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024.
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City of Tucson Announces Kristina Swallow
as New Assistant City Manager
The City of Tucson is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristina Swallow as the new Assistant City Manager. With more than three decades of experience in engineering and management across various sectors, Swallow brings invaluable expertise and a well-rounded perspective to this position in the City Manager's Office.
In her new role as Assistant City Manager, Swallow will oversee a variety of key departments and programs that are essential to the growth and development of Tucson. These include Parks and Recreation, Planning and Development Services, Environmental and General Services, Transportation and Mobility, Climate Action, the Tucson Development Center, and Economic Initiatives.
Most recently, Swallow served as the director of the City of Tucson’s Planning and Development Services Department (PDSD), where she made significant strides in enhancing the customer experience, increasing transparency, and fostering sustainable growth.
Congratulations, Kristina! We are so happy for you, and we know you will do an excellent job as an Assistant City Manager.
Yellow Heart COVID Memorial Remembrance Day
The 3rd Annual Yellow Heart COVID Memorial Remembrance Day was held on Saturday, September 14 at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park.
This wonderful event was hosted by the Tucson Chapter of the Yellow Heart Memorial, an incredible organization that gives communities across the United States an opportunity to honor loved ones who were lost during the pandemic.
Pima County District 5 Supervisor and Chair of the Pima County Board of Supervisors, Adelita Grijalva, and I had the opportunity to share some words at the event. Tucson Yellow Heart Memorial Member Maria Suarez and Bobby’s Bikes founder Debra McCoskey-Reisert shared touching stories of the losses they endured during the pandemic. I want to thank everyone who attended this important event.
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Blood Cancer Awareness Month
 By Mary Kuchar, Ward 5 Council Aide
Did you know that there are more than 100 types of blood cancer that affect more than 1.6 million people in the U.S. That doesn’t include the many more millions of people impacted as caregivers, families, friends, and loved ones.
September is National Blood Cancer Awareness Month. Blood cancer isn’t often called “blood cancer.” It is more recognizable by the more familiar names as Leukemia and Lymphoma, which are two of 100 plus names.
September 22nd marks my 14th re-birthday from conquering Multiple Myeloma. 14 years ago on this date, I received a stem cell transplant. It’s a day that many people celebrate as a second chance at life. For me, it marked the date of hope of a new life without cancer.
Early diagnosis is the best way to beat cancer. Take my advice and don’t be afraid to see a doctor. Your life may count on it.
September is Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Suicide is a significant public health concern, ranking as one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34, with the highest rates occurring in those aged 75 and older. In 2022, over 49,000 people lost their lives to suicide, and in 2021, an estimated 1.7 million people attempted it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This translates to one suicide every 11 minutes. Notably, men are more than three times as likely as women to die by suicide, with firearms being the most common method, accounting for about half of all cases.
Despite the alarming statistics, suicide is preventable. Understanding risk factors and recognizing warning signs are crucial steps in prevention. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center outlines key concepts: these are traits or conditions that increase the likelihood of someone considering, attempting, or dying by suicide. Common risk factors include mental health disorders, substance use, and mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders alcohol and hopelessness, impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies, history of trauma or abuse major physical illnesses previous suicide attempt(s) family history of suicide.
In a crisis? Call or text 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts. You matter, you are worthy, you are enough. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
Ward 5 Welcomes I-10 International
On Tuesday, September 10, my staff and I attended the groundbreaking of Phase I of the I-10 International Project, which is being developed by Lincoln Property Company. Plans for this project include four warehouses/distribution buildings totaling 476,000 Sq. Ft., 214,882 Sq. Ft., 188,327 Sq. Ft., and 158,908 Sq. Ft.
I want to thank David Krumwiede, Senior Executive Vice President of Lincoln Property Company, for inviting us to this event, and I want to thank Mayor Romero for attending as well.
Upcoming Ward 5
Neighborhood Association Meetings
Neighborhood: Fairgrounds
Date: Thursday, October 3, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: La Mariposa Park
(301 East Aviation Dr.)
Neighborhood: South Park
Date: Monday, October 7, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Center (1575 East 36th Street)
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
Date: Monday, October 21, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: El Pueblo Activity Center (101 W. Irvington Rd.)
Neighborhood: Pueblo Gardens
Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Center (1575 East 36th Street)
Neighborhood: Las Vistas
Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Recreation Center (1575 East 36th Street)
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Upcoming Mayor and Council Meetings
Date: Tuesday, October 8
Study Session: 2:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30 PM
Location: Mayor and Council Chambers
City Hall, 1st Floor.
255 West Alameda Street
Tucson, Arizona 85701
Date: Tuesday, October 22
Study Session: 2:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30 PM
Location: Mayor and Council Chambers
City Hall, 1st Floor.
255 West Alameda Street
Tucson, Arizona 85701
(Doors open 30 minutes before start time)
You can also watch the Mayor & Council Meetings on the City of Tucson’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cityoftucson/live
September 11, Never Forget
 This year marks the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 attacks. This was a dark day for the United States in which the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were attacked by Al-Qaeda. This heinous act killed 2,750 people in New York, 184 people at the Pentagon, and 40 in Pennsylvania after one of the hijacked planes crashed into a field after passengers attempted to retake it. For many years after the attack, first responders who were at the scene suffered many health issues because of the smoke and debris. As we remember the past, we also celebrate our continued strength and solidarity. America’s spirit shines brightly, reflecting our commitment to support one another and build a future grounded in hope and unity. Events like this, although tragic and horrifying beyond belief, serve as a reminder that despite any differences, we are Americans.
A Message from Tucson Water
“Tucson Water provides fresh, reliable, quality water to customers 365 days a year. Our staff works day and night to keep water flowing and also to make sure that the water coming out of the tap is safe and secure for the community. Our water is a blend of natural aquifer water and Colorado River water that is rigorously tested at our state-of-the-art water quality lab. Our goal is to go above and beyond state and federal regulations to provide the best quality water for Tucson. Learn more about your water here: https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Water/Water-Quality”
Cyclovia Tucson
Inspired by Bogotá's weekly "ciclovia," Cyclovia transforms Tucson's streets into car-free spaces, creating vibrant public parks for the community. This free event connects residents across the city, offering a safe environment for biking, walking, skating, rolling, and dancing through the streets of Tucson and South Tucson.
Cyclovia Tucson is an Open Streets initiative that reimagines public streets to be inclusive for everyone. During these events, the streets are open for everyone to enjoy! It's a perfect chance to discover local treasures, with routes designed for walking, biking, or any form of human-powered movement. Each route highlights 6-10 unique sights, encouraging participants to stop and take in the distinct sights and sounds of their neighborhoods.
Whether you're exploring for the first time or are a seasoned urban adventurer, these guides aim to inspire you to discover Tucson, one neighborhood at a time. Cyclovia fosters vibrant public spaces, encourages active transportation, and promotes good health through car-free street events. By engaging the community, Cyclovia transforms our relationships with our neighborhoods and with each other, operating as a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to creating positive change.
Mexican Baseball Fiesta 2024
 Photo courtesy of Pima Community College
The Vamos A Tucson Mexican Baseball Fiesta is a popular annual event in Tucson that celebrates Mexican baseball and culture.
The event features games between teams from the Liga Arco Mexicana del Pacifico (Mexican Winter Baseball League) and the University of Arizona Wildcats baseball team.
The Fiesta has become one of the top entertainment and baseball events in Tucson, known for its energy, music, food, and unique experience for baseball fans. The event is organized by the Mexican Baseball Fiesta LLC, founded by Mike Feder and Francisco Gamez. The Fiesta is now an official part of the LAMP Tour, the Mexican Winter Baseball League's version of spring training.
The 2024 Vamos A Tucson Mexican Baseball Fiesta is scheduled for October 3-6. Tickets for the Vamos a Tucson Mexican Baseball Fiesta went on sale in early September online at www.MexicanBaseballFiesta.com but they will also be on sale at the Kino Stadium box office and other locations on the week of the games. Game ticket prices are the following: box seats - $25, adult general admission - $20, students (6-16) and seniors are $10, under 6 are free.
Information on the Mexican Baseball Fiesta, LLC is available at www.MexicanBaseballFiesta.com; on Facebook at Mexican Baseball Fiesta; on Twitter at @MexBaseballFsta in English, Instagram – Mexicanbaseballfiesta and @Mxnbsbllfiesta on TikTok.
Southside Public Safety Complex Groundbreaking
On Tuesday, September 17, my staff and I attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the new Fire Station 10.
The current fire station was built in 1965, and it has outlived its operational life. Additionally, the staffing size and number of vehicles have outgrown the current facility as well.
The new fire station will be adjacent to the new Southside Police Substation at 4410 S. Park Ave.
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Together, these two buildings will form a Public Safety Complex that will serve the southside of Tucson. Tucson Fire plans to house 1 Engine, 1 Ladder, 1 Paramedic, 1 Rescue, 1 Battalion Chief, and 1- EC Captain, totaling 14 employees each day.
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All of this is thanks to you, the voters who approved the Tucson Delivers funding.
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It is investments like this that will ensure the health, safety, and security of our community.
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Barrio Santa Rita-West Ochoa Neighborhood Association 5th Annual Trunk or Treat
Important City Contacts
STAY INFORMED!
Check out our other
information outlets
https://www.tucsonaz.gov/ward-5
Like/Follow us on Facebook: Ward 5 City of Tucson
WARD 5 OFFICE
4300 S. Park Ave.
Tucson, Arizona 85714
Phone: (520) 791-4231
Fax: (520) 791-3188
Ward5@tucsonaz.gov
WARD 5 STAFF
Lupita Robles-Chief of Staff
Mary Kuchar-Council Aide
Gabriel Holguin – Council Aide
Cindy Gonzales – Council Aide
Lita Reyes - Council Staff Assistant
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