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Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether it’s a romantic dinner or event with your partner, a Galentine’s Day happy hour, or a delicious piece of chocolate that you relish by yourself, I wish you a very happy Valentine’s Day. Let’s remember that love is the greatest power, and the best response to fear and hate.
 Council member Kevin Dahl, Bam Miller, and Vicki Hart.
I am sad to note that a woman who was loved and admired in my neighborhood has passed. Vicki Hart was a force for good, who as a counselor and volunteer touched many lives. She was a tireless advocate for her community. She raised money for the Food Bank, was their chairwoman of the Citizens Police Review Board and worked as a drug and rehab counselor for Jewish Family Services among many other roles. If you lived in Samos Neighborhood (she helped start the neighborhood association), or paid attention while driving through, you will remember the corner telephone pole near her house that Vicki would artistically decorate for each holiday or important event. One neighbor told me he would see her standing on the top of her car so the signs, stuffed animal, or other items could be attached high enough so passing Salpointe High School students wouldn’t mess with them. On so many levels, Vicki will be missed. Our deepest condolences to Greg (her husband) and family.
 Friends to Lovers co-owners Shelbie Webb, Brittany Katter, Chelsea Elias, and Marlene Avelino are pictured here at their first pop-up event.
Ward 3 Council Aide Marlene Avelino has a new side gig and was recently featured in the Arizona Daily Star. Friends to Lovers is a pop-up bookstore that sells all sorts of romance books. Their next pop-up sale (I saw the last one and it is as much a party as a sale) is tonight (appropriately on Valentine's Day) 4-7 p.m. at Monsoon Chocolate Café + Market, 3630 E. Fort Lowell Road, where you can purchase a book or discuss your favorite novel with fellow romance lovers.
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Danny’s Baboquivari Lounge, located at 2910 E. Fort Lowell Rd., is not owned by Danny. And it turns out, Danny didn’t choose the name either, it was just less expensive to add Danny’s to the existing name than change the whole thing when he bought it in ‘81. It was originally Pavone’s Italian Restaurant and they are responsible for the classic, now too loved to remove, “timeless cowboy wallpaper” up. One of the owners, Richard Snyder shared “After staring at this wallpaper for 12 years, first thing I wanted to do was take it down. Three days after I bought it, the newspaper printed an article and one of the photos was of the wallpaper! Couldn’t take it down after that.”
 Richard Snyder, one of the owners of Danny’s Baboquivari Lounge, with the now famous wallpaper behind him
Richard Snyder bought the bar in 2007, with two friends, after bartending and then managing it since the early 90s. It was a tough biker bar with three security guards on duty and a high turnover rate when he was first hired as a bartender. What a surprise to me, who knows this spot as an industry bar - where bartenders and servers go after their shifts, and how I started going to Danny’s. Richard had a strategy to change the scene when first hired as a bartender: he convinced Danny to take him out to dinner to every really nice restaurant in Tucson, tip generously, and let the staff know where they worked. The strategy worked and to this day, their busiest hours are from midnight to two am.
 Danny’s Baboquivari Lounge at 2910 E Fort Lowell Road
The name references Baboquivari Peak, a place of significance for the Tohono O’odham, descendants of the Hohokam, the original peoples on this land. Elder Eddy Lopez shared, “Baboquivari Peak is a special mountain to the O’odham people for it is the tallest peak on the Tohono O’odham nation at 7,730 feet. It is the traditional home of I’itoi, who in our legends was one of the creators of earth, water, sky, and people. In our language, the peak is called Waw Giwulk, which means that the peak is constricted at a certain point.” About the name, Richard says," I don't need my name on there and I kind of like that it's hard to say."
 A simple mural of the Baboquivari Peak on the way into Danny’s.
Richard, “I live in a capitalist country, but my heart is not a capitalist. I believe we should take care of each other.” That is apparent in the practically non existent turnover rate, affordable drinks, and a water jug by the door at all times so people in need can help themselves.
 The old “Amazon Motel” sign will be updated to read “Amazon Flats” and will include updates to the lighting.
On Tuesday, Council Member Kevin Dahl attended the groundbreaking for Housing and Community Development’s latest permanent supportive housing project. Amazon Flats, located at 1135 W. Miracle Mile, will transform the Amazon Motel to be home for very low-income households. As various speakers at the groundbreaking outlined, the proximity to Pima County’s Northwest Service Center across the street, investing in a region that has been historically underinvested, and providing quality, affordable units that Tucson is in low supply of are just a few reasons on how this property will not only improve future resident’s lives but the community around it.
 Council Member Dahl with Tom Patel, former owner of the Amazon Motel. Once the City bought the Motel, Tom assisted in operations while it was being utilized as a shelter.
The City purchased the former motel in April 2023. In an effort to meet current needs while also working towards a future goal of housing stability, from June 2023 to September 2024 the City’s Housing First Program occupied the space as a low-barrier shelter while preparation for Phase 1 was conducted. During this time, 149 people were temporarily housed and of them, 86 were transitioned to permanent housing. Additionally, 294 people vulnerable to heat-related illnesses utilized the “COOLtainers” on site 230 times over the summer months to find respite and opportunities for outreach and resource navigation.
 The groundbreaking included partners from City of Tucson’s HCD and PDSD, Pima County Board of Supervisors, Poster Mirto McDonald, Old Pueblo Community Services, Arizona Department of Housing, and Gorman & Company.
Now that Phase 1 construction has commenced, the former motel will be renovated to house 30 studio apartments. Later in the pipeline, Phase 2 plans to utilize the proposed Community Corridors Tool to expand the sites capacity which would contribute over 50 additional units for permanent supportive housing. This project was made possible through Arizona Department of Housing’s Hotels to Housing Grant, Pima County gap funding, El Pueblo Housing Development, and partnership with Old Pueblo Community Services to provide wrap around service and case management for future residents.
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 SANTIAGO /ID# A828995
Age: 6 years
Qualities:
Peek-a-boo! Santiago came to PACC along with 20 other dogs, but he’s blossomed at the shelter thanks to staff and volunteers. He’s still a little shy, but he’ll turn into “a real sweetheart” as he gets to know you. This handsome boy loves treats, and he’s a pro at catching them in his mouth. He also enjoys long walks and exploring new surroundings. Based on his progress at PACC, volunteers and staff expect he’ll have a bright future with a patient family.
Fee:
Santiago is free to adopt. He is neutered, up-to-date on vaccines, and microchipped.
Contact:
Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Rd.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 12pm - 7pm.
Wednesday 1:30-7pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm.
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TPD Fort Lowell Corridor Crime and Safety Meeting
Tuesday 2/18, 5:30 - 6:30 pm
AGM Building
3544 E. Fort Lowell Rd.
Samos Neighborhood Association
Tuesday 2/18, 6:30-7:30 pm
1609 N. Spring St.
Sugar Hill Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/20, 6-7:30 pm
Donna Liggins Recreation Center
2160 N 6th Ave.
Amphi Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/20, 6-7 pm
Woods Memorial Library
3455 N 1st Ave.
Keeling Neighborhood Association
Monday 2/24, 7-8:30 pm
Cornerstone Fellowship Church
2902 N Geronimo Ave.
Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/26, 6-7 pm
Ward 3 Community Room
1510 E. Grant Rd.
The Ward 3 office is 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.
Our office will be closed on February 17 for the President's Day Holiday.
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United Way VITA Tax Preparation in Our Ward 3 Community Room on Saturdays 9 AM-1 PM, February 8 - April 12
 Questions? Contact Us!
Email: vita@unitedwaytucson.org
Phone: 520-333-5810
Website: https://unitedwaytucson.org/vita/
The 2025 Holiday Environmental Services Pick up Schedule
 Presidents Day
City offices will be closed on Presidents Day, Monday, February 17, 2025, but trash and recycling collection will remain on schedule in the city limits.
The Los Reales Sustainability Campus (LRSC) and landfill services will be open on Monday.
ES Holidays
Our dedicated Environmental Services equipment operators have chosen to work through most of the city holidays instead of their weekend time. As a result, trash and recycling collection will be delayed on only three holidays in 2025. Please note, city offices will be closed on these holidays and equipment operators will continue working their regular schedule. No changes to trash and recycling collection! Please leave your bins out as usual.
Tucson Parks And Rec Will Host Rec Center Open Houses Throughout The City
 Tucson Parks and Recreation invites the community to explore its recreation centers during a series of open houses throughout the year. These events offer an opportunity for residents to tour the facilities and learn about programs and events.
Attendees can enjoy special perks, including free limited-edition water bottles and stickers (collect them all by visiting multiple open houses). Additionally, those who attend can take advantage of a 50% discount on universal memberships, which must be purchased during the event to qualify for the promotion.
“Tucson Parks and Recreation is committed to providing spaces where everyone feels welcome,” said Director Lara Hamwey. “These open houses are a great way for the community to see all the opportunities we have to offer for connection, fitness, and fun.”
Explore the facilities, meet staff, and discover all the ways Tucson Parks and Recreation supports a healthy and active lifestyle. For more information, visit Tucsonaz.gov/parks.
One Billion Rising Esperanza Dance Project Flash Mob On February 14 At 4:30 PM
Esperanza Dance Project, founded 2011 in Tucson by Beth Braun, is a community-based collaboration that uses dance performances to educate about the issue of childhood sexual trauma and deliver a message of hope, strength and empowerment. Esperanza Dance Project welcomes community advocates and allies to come together and join One Billion Rising, happening 2/14/25 on the UA Mall at 4:30pm, a global day of action to end gender-based violence. To learn more about Esperanza Dance Project visit their website at: https://www.esperanzadanceproject.org/
 One Billion Rising is the biggest mass action to end violence against women (along with marginalized identities that are subject to gender-based violence) in human history. The campaign, which launched on Valentine’s Day 2012, began as a call to action based on the staggering statistic that 1 in 3 women on the planet will experience gender-based violence during her lifetime. With the world population at 7 billion, this adds up to more than ONE BILLION WOMEN AND GIRLS. You can learn more about One Billion Rising at onebillionrising.org
Food 4 Life Free Food Distribution Saturday February 15 At 8 AM
Community Visioning Workshop For Roger Rd.
No Address: The Movie Thursday, February 27 At Park Place Mall At 6:30 PM
Team Up To Clean Up Your Neighborhood
What is Team Up To Clean Up?
The City of Tucson, along with community partners, is organizing a citywide clean-up effort. Residents, families, students, community groups, and businesses are invited to join forces to clean and enhance our neighborhood.
For more details on events dates and times, visit: Team Up To Clean Up.
No Tools Needed!
The city provides all necessary materials and will handle trash disposal.
Want to Clean at Your Own Pace?
You can get recycled 55-gallon bags from your local ward office, courtesy of our local breweries.
For questions, email Steven at steven.laturco@tucsonaz.gov
Schedule for Tucson Home Sharing Events
Tucson Home Sharing will be concluding its activities and programs after Feb. 20th
Robo Rumble Family Edition
TEEN: Art of Spring - Immersion Camp at the Drawing Studio March 10-14
For ages 13 - 17.
This day camp is designed to develop the technical skill and technique of young artists in drawing and painting, with the instruction by 2 distinct master teaching artists. There will also be opportunity to explore art practice in non traditional crafts, providing a safe studio space of play and discovery.
Free lunch and snacks are provided.
Tucson Japanese Festival Saturday March 15 From 10 AM - 4 PM At The Tucson Chinese Cultural Center
More Than a Bed Needs Donations
 More Than a Bed provides essentials to children in foster, adoptive and kinship care to alleviate the financial burden on the families caring for them because every child deserves to feel valued.
More Than a Bed collects anything a child needs; clothing, toys, bedding, beds (not mattresses), housewares, bikes, new or used for redistribution at no cost to the families.
Our drop off hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:30-1:30 and the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 8:30-1:30.
Our website is www.morethanabed.org [morethanabed.org]
Free Hot Soup From November 12- March 14
Ready, Set, REC! in February
Grocery Sharing at Tucson Food Share - 2500 N. Stone Ave.
Groceries are shared Mondays 4:30 - 6 pm, Thursdays 6 - 7:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8 - 9:30am. https://tucsonfoodshare.org/ has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.
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We welcome your feedback!
Please feel free to email us at Ward3@tucsonaz.gov
Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.tucsonaz.gov/ward-3
Did You Know? Plastic can take a minimum of 500 years to bio degrade. It pollutes our oceans, sits in our landfills, and breaks down into microplastics that end up in our food chain.
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