LOVE Exclusive: How Special Interests Can Corrupt Oro Valley Politicians

This is the first of a three part series on the influence of developer and contractor donations on Oro Valley politics
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Satish Hiremath introduced big money fundraising in 2010
Satish Hiremath introduced Oro Valley to the power of money in small town elections in 2010, He funded his campaign at a level five times greater than his opponent. Hiremath raised more than $45,000:

$20,000 from personal loans, which his PAC later repaid

$13,000 from special interests contributors

$12,000 from family and individual contributors

Hiremath won the election by less that fifty votes.

2013: First time HSL donates to Hiremath campaign
Many more donation were to follow.

2012: End of Innocence
In 2012, Hiremath got a taste of developer money as Diamond Ventures entered the scene.

In 2013, HSL Properties jumped on board (panel right).

This was the beginning of the end of innocence in Oro Valley fund raising. What was once a very pleasant, peaceful community was about to become a Developer paradise. Every general plan amendment and just about every zoning change was approved by council from 2010 through 2018.

$59,300 in developer money bought the 2014 election
In 2014. Mayor Hiremath and incumbent council members Hornat, Snider and Waters practiced the big money campaign finance model. This time special interest contributors kicked in $59,300. This was a four fold increase from 2010.

2014 Donations to Hiremath Majority

The top five donors (panel left) pumped $59,300 into the campaign of the incumbents. This is 76% of all contributions from individuals.

They did this at a time when these donors had continuing business dealings with the town, dealings that required council approval.

Here's the big one....

August 2014: Hiremath extols concept of community center... HSL becomes a "community partner"
On August 7, 2014, during a 2014 candidate forum, Hiremath extolled the virtue of Oro Valley having a community center.

At that time, LOVE asked if Hiremath had an epiphany. Up to then, the only council member who had even mentioned the need for a community center was current council candidate, then council member Bill Garner.

We reported in 2013: "Council Member Bill Garner has been advocating for a community center for years. His calls have been ignored by the Majority-4. 'I've been investigating a public/private partnership that could put a community center at Steam Pump Ranch,'" 

Now, suddenly, a community center was Hiremath's idea.  According to Hiremath speaking at the forum: "I'm in dialogue with other community partners about maybe doing something of a community center." (Source: Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum) "

The HSL Community Center
The "other community partner" to whom Hiremath had referred was HSL Properties. HSL was negotiating the purchase of the El Conquistador Resort. They needed to shed the golf courses in order to make the deal financially advantageous for them. At the same time, they wanted to retain five-star resort status. This meant that they needed to be able to offer golf.  The deal they cut with the Town of Oro Valley gave them both.

What Hiremath did not say at that forum was that the "community center" was a clubhouse that served the El Conquistador Country Club, that  the country club was part of the deal and that the seller was his biggest campaign contributor. He also failed to share this salient information during LOVE's September interview with him.

The result of all of this was a 2015 Recall Election and even more special interest money. That's our story next time.
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Guest View-Don Bristow's "After Election Thoughts"

Saying thank you hardly seems enough when I think of everything volunteers did for me during my campaign for Council.

Volunteers gave input into and revised my brochures and flyers; they stood on street corners holding signs of support; they walked neighborhoods and delivered thousands of flyers; they talked with, emailed and wrote letters to friends and neighbors about supporting me; they put my signs in their yards and neighbor’s yards; they invited me into their homes to become acquainted with me; they donated money to the campaign; and they called, emailed me, and stopped by with suggestions and encouragement. It really is each of them who make Oro Valley a Community of Excellence.

The election did not end the way I had hoped. However, it was a great honor to run for the Oro Valley Council, and to be supported and encouraged by so many concerned citizens who felt I could be their voice on the Council.

Running with a focus on the residents of Oro Valley, and funding my campaign with only individual donations was an uphill battle to say the least. I was pleased to receive around $2,000 in donations and spend approximately $3,000.

My opponents received significant funding from special interest groups. I worry that these special interests will continue to shape the future of Oro Valley as they have done for the last four year. The incumbents each received between $14,000 and $18,000 in donations, and their final receipts have not yet been reported. Mayor Hiremath, at the last reporting period, had received almost $35,000 and still counting. The four combined their efforts, and so far have reported expenses exceeding $25,000.

Almost all of their donations were from developers, builders, real estate people, car dealers, and others who interface with Town staff and Council. During the last four years, this Council’s ruling majority have catered to these groups and individuals. With the significant funding from these groups during this election, there is every reason to believe the residents’ needs will not receive fair consideration.

I plan to stay very involved, listen to, and speak on behalf of, in the mayor’s words after the election “the whiny minority” who, I believe do NOT distract from the town’s forward momentum. I hope that each of you will also be involved. Let’s move forward together, and make certain the Council hears and acts upon the needs and desires of all concerned citizens.
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Don Bristow is a long-time Oro Valley resident and 2014 candidate for Oro Valley Town Council. Don is a frequent speaker at Oro Valley council meetings and has been a member of various Oro Valley committees.

Extremely Low Voter, Primarily Partisan Turnout Gives Oro Valley Incumbents Win

34% of Oro Valley's 27,113 eligible voters set Oro Valley's leadership course through 2018 by reelecting Oro Valley's 4 incumbent officials to office. 

Voters elected incumbent Mayor Satish Hiremath over challenger Patrick Straney by a 61%-39% margin.

Incumbent Council Member's Hornat, Sniders and Waters outpolled challenger Don Bristow.  Bristow received 17% of votes cast.   His vote total trailed his closest competitor, Council Member Joe Hornat, by 1,900 votes.

We believe that the election result is the result of when the election was held and not because of any sweeping electorate mandate.

The election was remarkable in that voter turnout was exceptionally low.

Only 12% of Oro Valley's 12,769 poll eligible voters voted.  

Only 54% of those who received mail-in ballots bothered to vote.

In the 2010 Mayoral election, 14,766 votes were cast. In this election, 9,263 votes were cast.  That is a difference was 5,503 fewer votes cast.  That is astounding.

Republican voters controlled the election

The election was held coterminous with partisan primary elections as now required by law.

As LOVE had written previously, the requirement by the State that Oro Valley elections be held at such time virtually insured a low voter turnout and one that would be biased toward the town of Oro Valley's partisan voters, who are primarily Republican voters.  This change effectively locked out registered independents from voting since they had to make special effort to get ballots and since they were not in the habit of voting in partisan primaries.

Generally, unless there is some hotly contested partisan race, which there was not, partisan voter turnout is low.  There was a hotly contested race for congress district 1 on the republican side but no race on the democratic side:

We estimate that independents were 8% of the total votes cast.

There were 3,169 votes case for Mayor in Oro Valley's largest 2 largest voting districts (12 and 145).  Using votes cast for congress district 1 as a benchmark, we find that there were 2921 partisan (party related) votes cast in these 2 districts.  That means that only 248 votes were submitted with no party voting.  These are the independent registered voters. So, based on our estimate:

Votes cast by Republican registered voters:  58%
Votes cast by Democrat registered voters:    34%
Votes cast by Independent voters:                   8%

Full election results are available on the Pima.gov web site.

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Tell us your reaction!
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Decision Time Awaits Oro Valley Voters--"Some Final Considerations"

Tomorrow is election day. In just a few hours, Oro Valley voters will decide if they wish the direction of the Town Of Oro Valley to remain unchanged or if they wish Oro Valley to move in a different direction.

One vote for Pat Straney, Mayor, and one vote for Don Bristow, Council, will change Oro Valley's direction.  Voting for the 4 incumbents will keep Oro Valley on its current course.

Many of you reading this will have already voted by mail. Still, you will want to read this posting.

We offer the following analysis for those of you who have not yet voted by mail (and you need to do so now) or for those of you who plan to vote at the polls.

Public Safety Is Not An Issue.  Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed.  

Mayoral candidate Straney and council candidate Don Bristow have repeatedly said that they want a strong, effective Oro Valley police force. Straney and Bristow have said that they will provide oversight to the department as the council is required to do.

An Oro Valley Property Tax Is Not An Issue. Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

No candidate supports the creation of an Oro Valley property tax.  All candidates recognize that Oro Valley was founded on the basis that there would be no property tax.  Based on town financial projections, there is no future need for a property tax.  There is, as challenges Straney and Bristow have noted, a need to examine alternative sources of revenue because of the gigantic increase in spending by the Majority-4.

All Candidates Have Proven Leadership. Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

Pat Straney has demonstrated the management and the financial skills, both in the public and private sector, to be able to put a critical-eye to Oro Valley financial needs.  Together, he and Don Bristow bring a wealth of private sector experience to Oro Valley's council.

Only Pat Straney and Don Bristow can unite Oro Valley. Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

Oro Valley needs leaders who unite us, not divide us.  The Majority-4 have demonstrated that they are not interested in listening to all of us. They have marginalized Council Member Bill Garner's ideas for 4 years. Before that, they marginalized Council Member Barry Gillaspie's ideas. They actively tried to recall Council Member Zinkin. They are now trying to oust Council Member Burns. They are the great dividers.

The Majority-4 represent the interests of the police, the firefighers, the apartment-builders, the developers and the business interests. Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

The only special interest group that Pat Straney and Don Bristow represent are the people of Oro Valley. You are their only endorsement.

Pat Straney and Don Bristow will do the hard work of reaching conclusions based on facts and analysis, not based solely on staff recommendations and briefings. Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

Hard work is no stranger to Straney and Bristow.  Pat Straney does his homework as leader of the Rancho Vistoso HOA.  Don Bristow does his homework in his efforts to have Oro Valley actually enforce its ordinances.

The Majority-4 are on auto-pilot.  The only information they rely on is what they are told in town staff briefings.

Pat Straney and Don Bristow are committed to balancing the needs of all Oro Valley residents.  The Majority-4 have demonstrated that they are not interested in doing so.  Anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed   

More than 25% or Oro Valley's citizens are over 65.  "According to the 2010 Census,  there were actually 37% more people over 65 (10,699) than 18 or under (7,888)" (Source).  Certainly, our seniors deserve attention.  Instead of balancing the needs of all citizens, the Majority-4 have focused primarily on the needs of the town's younger demographic.

• We documented that the Majority-4 eliminated the Oro Valley recreation center, a center for adults, seniors and people of need.
• We documented that the Majority-4 tried to kill Coyote Run, which provided transportation for the most needy in the community. 
• We documented that the Majority-4 eliminated a Parkinsons Disease group exercise program only to have it reinstated once LOVE screamed of how wrong this was.
• We documented that the Majority-4 have supported the young people in our community.  The refurbished aquatic center, which cost twice what it was supposed to cost, and new Naranja ball fields are primarily for our youngsters.  This is a good thing. In fact, the aquatic center was approved by all council members.
• We discussed the lack of any Oro Valley commitment to historic preservation. This commitment has been non-existent for the past 4 years. Just take a look at the condition of Steam Pump Ranch: Dirty, dusty, tired, with a crumbling pump house.

The politics of "division" is never a good thing. The needs of the entire community must always be balanced. For goodness sake: Let's spread the "wealth." No one group should be forgotten.

Now, It's Up To You. Anyone who tells you otherwise is wrong!

Stay the same? Change Direction?

Please be sure to vote.

Stolen Straney and Bristow Signs Are A Sign Of Oro Valley Lawlessness

We wrote Friday that the political signs of candidates Pat Straney and Don Bristow are being stolen.  This is happening while the signs of the incumbents, located in the same areas, have not been touched.

We conclude that some incumbent candidate supporters are absolutely petrified at the thought that 2 of their candidates could they lose the election.

Pat and Don, running bootstrap campaigns, have found a way to combat the insanity:

Leave All Signs Alone!

Destroying a sign is insane. It is also a federal offense.

Pat and Don have filed complaints with the Oro Valley Police Department. Do you think they will ever hear back on their complaint?
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It's Not Too Late To Vote Your Vote-By-Mail Ballot!

Pima County Recorder F. Ann Rodriguez would like to remind Pima County voters that it’s not too late to vote your vote-by-mail ballot. All vote-by-mail ballots must be received by the Recorder’s office no later than 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2014.

Ms. Rodriguez encourages everyone who received a vote-by-mail ballot to vote it by dropping it off at ANY polling location on Election Day, August 26, 2014. You can also drop it off at any of the Recorder’s offices on Monday or at the Recorder’s main office at 115 N. Church Ave. on Election Day.

Anyone who received a vote-by-mail ballot but decides to vote at the polls on Election Day will be required to voter a provisional ballot instead. Ms. Rodriguez recommends that voters drop off their voted vote-by-mail ballots in order to avoid having to complete the paperwork for a provisional ballot.

If you have any questions about your vote-by-mail ballot or your polling location, you can call the Recorder’s office voter line at 520-724-4330.

(Source)
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Constituent Letter: Its Time For A New Mayor

The following letter was sent to the local advertising circular and the Arizona Daily Star. The local advertising circular published in on its Tuesday online edition.  We thought we'd publish it to insure greater Oro Valley coverage.
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At the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum, Mayor Hiremath, said:

“The expectation you should have of your mayor is that you want somebody who is honest, has integrity, is respectful, is responsible and cares for you.” However, his written and spoken comments over the last four years reveal that he is not that person.

This is a direct quote from an e-mail that the mayor sent Councilmember Garner on 4/18/14:

"Your comments were at best very rude, inconsiderate, tasteless, mean-spirited and beneath contempt".

Couple this with the mayor's tirade toward a senior staff member at the 10/16/13 council meeting when he wanted staff to do the council's job. He stated,

"This is a waste of my time!  You are paid professionals. I'm lightly hammering you over the head because I disagree.”

Were these remarks civil and respectful?

How about the mayor contacting the County Attorney regarding a councilmember's residency rather than going through the Town Attorney?

What about the mayor instructing the chief of police that he need not respond to a councilmember's e-mail? (9/11/12).

Public disagreement and disrespect at council meetings has become the norm. At the 6/3/14 council meeting, the mayor publicly chastised Councilmembers Burns, Garner, and Zinkin because he did not agree with their vote against the budget...a vote that was taken over a month prior.

As for the mayor’s honesty, at the Sun City Candidate Forum, he claimed that the
councilmembers not currently up for re-election were proposing a vote against Home Rule and
that they desire a property tax. These statements are completely untrue.

Is the mayor responsible? Despite his desire to have the police department report directly to
council, the mayor instructed staff not to include him in the distribution of the OVPD monthly overtime reports. Interestingly, the most recent report indicates that the OVPD spent $86,443.17 more than what the budget allocated. The mayor insists that these expenditures not be questioned.

The payment of overtime for hours scheduled rather than hours worked was approved by the mayor and the three incumbents, despite being told by staff that paying overtime in this fashion will cost the town, at a minimum, an additional $120,000.

Unquestioned spending is the norm. Town employees will get a minimum of a 5.5% raise in an economy where the average raise is 2%.[Ed note: This number is actually .5% (source)] This along with free health insurance, free dental insurance, free vision insurance, and now a free, on-site, health clinic were all approved without question. After all, as Mayor Hiremath says, "We don't want to get into the weeds."

Residents have been complaining about all the new apartments. The mayor's response is that "apartments are noted in the General Plan." However, every apartment complex now
underway on Oracle road required a re-zoning; a vote that was contrary to the established land use noted in the General Plan.

At a candidate forum on 7/24/14, the mayor said that, "civility, integrity, and teamwork are emotional words and political terms." Most people believe that these words represent values, not political rhetoric.

We need a mayor who will promote harmony, teamwork, and civility.

Our current mayor does just the opposite. He even had the audacity to state that if you do not agree with him, then you need to "consider your own judgment and sensibilities." (Explorer 12/27/13).

Mayor Hiremath's actions over the past four years have been neither responsible nor respectful, and show a complete lack of integrity. Do we desire this man to continue as our mayor? The choice is ours. Please join me in voting Pat Straney for Mayor of Oro Valley.

Art Segal
Oro Valley
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Guest View-Art Segal: Vote One For Straney and One For Bristow

It's been a few years since I turned over LOVE totally to Richard, who has done an outstanding job of informing and enlightening the residents of Oro Valley as to the issues confronting us.

About a month ago, Richard sent out an email to those on LOVE's email list that I hope you all read, that discussed our upcoming election. In his message, he suggested ("implored" might be a better word), that if you're concerned about the representation of the mayor and 3 council members up for reelection, you'll vote ONLY for Pat Straney for mayor, and Don Bristow for council.

After 4 1/2 years, doing my best to keep our friends and neighbors in Oro Valley informed, I began to realize that not enough of our fellow citizens either knew, or cared who, or how our local government impacted our daily lives. The election of 2010, in which Mike Zinkin failed to become mayor by a total of 30 votes, in a questionable vote count, left me very disenchanted. Since being elected Mayor, Dr. Hiremath has consistently denigrated publicly anyone who may have an opinion not shared by him. He's not embarrassed by his actions, but he is an embarrassment to the people of Oro Valley.

30 votes could have, and would have changed everything in Oro Valley. You can be sure that a study of the police department's operation would have been done, not "squashed" by the 4 seeking reelection. We wouldn't have the police department working a schedule that requires the citizens to pay for hundreds of hours of overtime. We wouldn't have about 50% of the police, regardless of where they live, driving OUR police cars home on a daily basis. We wouldn't have an escalated "Use Tax" on our necessities of life: our water, gas & electric bills. More than likely, we wouldn't see hundreds of apartments being built, on what seems to be any open parcel in Oro Valley. Look no further than Oracle road, and you'll see 3 major apartment complexes in various stages of construction.

YOU can change the dynamics of Oro Valley. Take Richard's advice, and PLEASE----- VOTE FOR ONLY PAT STRANEY & DON BRISTOW. Things can and will get better in Oro Valley. And, remember----Your vote is critical! Let Oro Valley Excel!
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Art Segal is LOVE's co-founder. He worked tirelessly for years to inform Oro Valley's residents of the happenings in our community.   Known for his sharp insights and  his"no holds barred" writing style, Art kept LOVE moving forward by "telling it like it is."  He helped identify and champion Oro Valley's leaders, like Council Member Bill Garner.  Though retired from LOVE, Art is always with us. And for that we are most appreciative.

Bits and Pieces

A "Criminal Mastermind", A Mom and A Student

By now, you have read about Oro Valley's successful prosecution of Brittany Leigh Underwood, the "criminal mastermind" behind a credit card scam.

"The investigation revealed there were more than 40 people victimized by Underwood and more than $85,000 dollars fraudulently charged by her. " (Source: Oro Valley Police Department)

In 2011, the year that the criminal enterprise probably began, Underwood posted her resume on line.

"Experienced Administrative/Public Relations Assistant," she wrote, "looking for a challenging position working in an administrative, public relations and/or entry level accounting role at a growth-oriented company, which will allow me to both further utilize my skills and acquire new abilities."

Underwoods resume lists a number of skill and efforts to continue her growth and education. It also says she has children.

Caught in a "bad economy" and plagued by the inability to obtain full-time work, she chose to commit identity theft, fraud schemes and forgery.  She exchanged  her freedom and her love of family for an orange suit and 14 years in prison.
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"OV adds 500 acre feet of CAP water to potable water system

Oro Valley, Arizona, (August 11, 2014) - On Wednesday, August 13 at 9 a.m., the Town of Oro Valley will celebrate the completion of a blending facility on Calle Buena Vista, just north of Hardy Road, which will allow the addition of 500 acre feet of Central Arizona Project (CAP) water to be delivered to Oro Valley Water service areas, bringing the Town's total CAP delivery to 2,000 acre feet per year.

The delivery of CAP water first became a reality in January 2012, through a partnership with Tucson Water, when the Town began delivering approximately 1,500 acre feet per year.

One acre foot of water equals 325,851 gallons. For every gallon of CAP water delivered, Oro Valley Water Utility replaces a corresponding gallon of water pumped from the Town's ground water, preserving the aquifer.

"This project will further protect and preserve the Town's groundwater resources in Southern Arizona by delivering our Central Arizona Project water," commented Oro Valley Water Utility Director Philip Saletta. "It is an example of regional cooperation and the commitment between Oro Valley and the City of Tucson that follows through on our existing water agreement."

With this latest addition, 42% of Oro Valley's total water deliveries now come from renewable water resources." (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)
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Buyers Wanted: Lots Of Inventory Of Oro Valley Homes

Oro Valley's housing market continues to be very soft.  This from Long Realty:

"In the Oro Valley area, July 2014 active inventory was 330, a 47% increase from July 2013. There were 60 closings in July 2014, a 22% increase from July 2013. Months of Inventory was 5.5, up from 4.6 in July 2013. Median price of sold homes was $251,000 for the month of July 2014, up 12% from July 2013. The Oro Valley area had 62 new properties under contract in July 2014, down 10% from July 2013." (Source: Long Realty)
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Would You Trust The Leadership Judgment Of These Guys?

They Like The Majority-4

As reported previously, the "North Tucson Firefighters" and the " Oro Valley Police Officer's Association" endorse the Majority-4.   Both organizations did so without even bothering to interview candidates Straney and Bristow.  The Majority-4 mailed an expensive 4-color postcard last week with the astounding announcements.

Here it is.

We wish the public servants would stay our of politics or at least do diligence in endorsing candidates.

For, in taking sides, these organizations are taking arms agains those of us who do not support these candidates.
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Dispose-A-Med Tomorrow

Click here to learn more.

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Majority-4: "We Saved Oro Valley From Financial Ruin" Claim Does Not Square With The Facts

Incumbent candidates Mayor Hiremath and Council Members Hornat, Snider and Waters, the Majority-4,  claim that they inherited a $3.1 million deficit that they fixed. They further claim that what they did was remarkable.  "If you think about what this council has done, it's beyond remarkable," candidate and current Mayor Hiremath boasted at the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum.

We've done our homework.  We've done our research. We've talked to others who were on council at the time. We now present the facts to you. You be the judge. Is what they did remarkable?

Fact Check Summary:

• The recession was over when the Majority-4 took office in 2010.  
• Oro Valley was in excellent financial condition when the Majority-4 took office in June of 2010. 
• A 2011-12 tentative, proposed  budget showed a $3.1 million difference between requested spending and forecasted revenues.  This was the second budget that the Majority-4 were to approve. It was their proposed budget. They did not inherit it from any previous council.
• It is our assertion that the Majority 4 caused any difficulty in balancing the 2011-12 tentative, not yet adopted budget because they refused to consider reasonable spending cut alternatives, alternatives done by many other fiscally responsible communities.
• The Majority-4 partially solved the difficulty they created by reaching into your pocket and raising taxes on you.
• And there's more...

Those are the  headlines. Now here are the details:

Fact: Government statistics show that the recession was over when the Majority-4 took office.

Though some politicians, like Mayor Hiremath, may assert that the recession was not over, US Government Gross Domestic Product ("GDP") data, the only measure of a recession, shows that the recession ended in 2009.

In fairness, the town was still feeling the after effects of the recession until 2102.  For example, it took several years from construction revenues to resume.

In boasting that they saved Oro Valley from financial disaster, Mayor Hiremath also asserts that this recession was the worst in US history. Perhaps the Majority-4 are too young to remember or failed to listen in their school history class. The 2007-2009 recession does not compare in depth or longevity to the 1930-1941 Great Depression or to the depth of 1978-1980 double play recession where the rate of inflation and interest rates were in double digits.  At that time, there was an energy shortage that was so bad that then President Carter urged Americans to lower their thermostat and to wear a sweater to keep warm.

Fact: Oro Valley was in excellent financial condition when the Majority-4 took office in June of 2010.

Barry Gillaspie was a council member when the Majority-4 took office. Bill Garner was also on council at that time.  Their recollection was that the recession hit the Town well before the majority took office in 2010 and that the town successfully worked its way through the difficult recession years.

Council Member Gillaspie told us in a recent email. "Clearly," he observes "the recession hit the Town well before the majority took office in 2010".  He continues:

"I must be clear: The Town was never and has never been in a deficit situation. 

The Town Council successfully worked to achieve a balanced budget and to secure long-term stability for the Town. This has been a constant for all Oro Valley Councils that I am proud to tell you! 

Prior to 2010, the Town Council enacted many measures to lower Town expenditures and stabilize budget projections; staffing reductions through attrition, restructuring of debt, hiring freeze and many other actions.

Oro Valley was never then and has never been since in a deficit situation."

LOVE's research confirm's Barry's recollection.

For example, before the Majority-4 came to office in 2010, there was a projected 2010-2011 tentative, not yet approved, town manager prepared budget that showed a shortfall of spending over revenues of $1.8 million.

In March of that year, while the council was deliberating that budget, the Majority-4, through Council Member Snider, begged that that council to not approve this budget.  Watch Snider's appeal (at right)  She wanted the new council to work on it.

Kinks had already been worked out at that time.

Town Manager Jerene Watson and Town Finance Director Stacey Lemos presented many options for balancing this not yet approved budget. They worked to bring spending in-line with revenue projection.

"Department heads were told early on to cut 3 percent to 5 percent from their budgets and many exceeded those guidelines. That has allowed the town to balance all its funds, with the exception of the transit fund, Lemos said." (Source)

Town staff, and the previous council, had fixed the shortfall and created a balanced budget for 2010-2011.

There was no deficit. There was no crisis.

So where was this possible crisis?

A 2011-12 tentative, proposed  budget showed a $3.1 million difference between requested spending and forecasted revenues. This was Majority-4's budget. They did not inherit it from any previous council.

This is the $3.1 million to which the Majority-4 refer.  This is not a deficit. A deficit only occurs when actual spending exceeds actual revenues. This never happened.  As former Council Member Gillaspie reminded us: "Oro Valley has never experienced a deficit."  

What Oro Valley has experienced and what every business, public or private experiences, is a situation in which the amalgamation of spending requests by departments, called budgets, exceed future revenues.  When this happens, negotiations take place and the budget is brought into balance. It is that budget that is approved.

In March of 2011, a full year after their election, the Majority-4 faced a tentative town manager proposed budget projected shortfall for 2011-2012 of $3.1 million. (source) By this time, they had provided guidance to town staff about what they wanted to see in the budget. It was the Majority-4's budget.  The tentative unbalanced budget that was initially created, the one that showed this difference, was one that they certainly contributed to creating through the guidance they provided during the year.

Long before their budget deliberations, the council, and therefore the Majority-4, were aware that there would be a budgeting challenge in 2010-11. This is because budget projections had been prepared by the town finance director.  "It is true that long-term budget projections showed a budget deficit but a deficit would only occur if the Council did nothing!" according to Gillaspie.

The council did do something.

It LOVE's assertion that the Majority 4 caused any difficulty in balancing the 2011-12 tentative, not yet adopted budget because they refused to consider reasonable spending cut alternatives, alternatives done by many other fiscally responsible communities.

There were  plenty of alternatives to fix the shortfall by further reducing spending.   This could have included reducing the police budget without any change in public safety.  Oro Valley has always been a very safe town.

We have  always asserted that the Majority-4 did not want to touch the police budget because the police then, and now, support them. The council minority had lost a battle to control spending.

The Majority-4 partially solved the difficulty they created by reaching into your pocket and raising taxes on you.

So, the Majority-4 refused to do what other councils from 1974 to 2010 had done: Reduce spending.

Instead, unlike what was done by all but one prior council, the Majority-4 chose to reach into your pocket.  They doubled the utility tax (source) to fix part of the shortfall.

The Majority-4 had promised to not increase taxes during their 2010 campaign. So much for truthful electioneering.  

This was not the first time the utility tax was used to help the police. It had been enacted in 2007 to pay for six police officers and it was supposed to sunset in 2009.  But politicians love taxes.  They call taxes: "Sustained revenue sources." And once a tax is enacted, it never goes away.
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And there' more. 
Fact: Garner and Gillaspie saved Coyote Run

Today, the Majority-4 want credit for saving Oro Valley money by turning Coyote Run over to RTA.  They want you to think they created a win for everyone.  Do you remember the events surrounding Coyote Run? LOVE does.

Fact:  As reported by LOVE , the Majority-4 (plus Council Member Solomon) voted to eliminate Coyote Run in 2011 and to not make provision for most of those, Oro Valley's most needy, who use the service.

It was Council Member's Gillaspie and Garner who led the fight to sustain existing service levels for Oro Valley's most needy, using Coyote Run as an asset to negotiate for the county. It was also the appearance of 100 of Oro Valley's most needy at a council meeting that also made a difference. The Majority-4, then the majority 5, "blinked." (Source)

Garner and Gillaspie saved Coyote Run: "A surprise motion was made by Council Member Garner and seconded by Councilmember Gillaspie to maintain Coyote Run service as is and to direct the funding to come from the Bed Tax fund for FY2011/2012.." They found the money to sustain it.

Eventually, the Majority-4, realizing that they had made a really bad decision, voted to further study the Coyote Run situation and work with the RTA.  Mayor Hiremath, by the way, voted against even doing this!

Council Member Garner remembers what happened quite well.  "Barry and I had met with the Coyote Run people many times, early on.  We did our best to represent them. We turned it around in council.  We must have done such a good job that Mayor Hiremath decided to move us to the side and put Council Member Solomon and Waters in the drivers seat. It would have been nice to have even been asked to help out at that point. We did the work. Then Mayor Hiremath disrespected us."
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Who are the heroes? Who did remarkable things?
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Are Majority-4 Oro Valley's heroes?
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Bits and Pieces

Solomon For The Incumbents

Former Oro Valley Appointed Council Member Steve Solomon was soundly defeated in the 2012 election by the minority-3.  Solomon had been appointed to council by Majority-4.  Tuesday, Solomon sent an email to his mailing list endorsing the Majority-4.
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You Did "Request" An Early Ballot, Right?

Ballots went out yesterday. You should be getting your's very shortly assuming that you did ask for one. (see right panel)

Nearly 16,000 Independents in Pima County have requested early ballots. This is a record, acceding to the recorder's office. (Source)  This is not surprising to us given that the State of Arizona (foolishly) required no chartered cities, like Oro Valley, to mix partisan primaries with non partisan elections, like the Oro Valley Mayoral and Council elections.
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Roseanne Roseannadana

"Its So Funny I Forgot To Laugh"

The Arizona Daily Star's uber-liberal cartoonist David Fitzpatrick likes to poke fun at Oro Valley:

"Oro Valley. 10,000 Seniors, 3 Safeways, and a speed trap. Oro Valley needs the speed trap. The ticket revenues fund the Viagra Overdose Hotline."

"Oro Valley. It’s so new. The only thing built in the last century are the residents. And they’re constantly having to repair their plumbing."

"Oro Valley. Oro is spanish for gold. Where’s the gold? All 327 Urology clinics."

And how about this knee-slapper:

"Oro Valley is a gold mine for traffic cops. The number one excuse? “I’m late for my colonoscopy.” The number two excuse? “Number two.” I’ll give the motorcycle cops credit. They’ve learned to write tickets fast. (Source)

Obviously, "Fitz" has a fixation with human plumbing!

As Roseanne Roseannadana (Gildner Rander of SNL) use to say: "It's so funny I forgot to laugh."
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High Visibility Enforcement (HiVE) August Deployments - Oracle Road at Magee and Suffolk

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (July 28, 2014) - The Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) will continue with its High Visibility Enforcement (HiVE) efforts during the month of August on Oracle Road at the Magee and Suffolk intersections. OVPD hopes to increase awareness and reduce collisions related to inattention, following too closely and failing to yield to other drivers. The Pima County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) will continue to participate and support the education/enforcement efforts.

OVPD and PCSD will deploy motorcycle officers on the following dates:

• Aug. 7, 2014:   7 - 10 a.m. 
• Aug. 12, 2014: 4 - 7 p.m. 
• Aug. 19, 2014: 7 - 10 a.m. 
• Aug. 21, 2014: 4 - 7 p.m. 
• Aug. 27, 2014: 4 - 7 p.m.

Motorists are asked to be aware of the additional enforcement activity and drive safely.
(Source: Oro Valley Police Department)
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8.62 Acres For A Cool $2.4 Million

Do you have your checkbook ready?

The Southwest Corner of Linda Vista and Oracle is for sale for $2.4 million, $356,000 per acre.  The land is across from the GFRD station. "Also can be sold with adjacent parcel of 5.51 acres located at the SW Corner of Linda Vista and Oracle Rd". (source with pictures)
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"UPDATE: Melissa Ann Gordy sentenced for sexual exploitation of a minor

A Real Sweetheart, This One

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (July 29, 2014) - On July 28, 2014, Melissa Ann Gordy, 44 years old, was sentenced for crimes that occurred in Oro Valley beginning in March 2012. Gordy accepted a plea agreement and was sentenced to 40 years in prison and a lifetime of probation for the following crimes: Two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor under the age of 15 (Class 2 felony); One count of sexual exploitation of a minor under fifteen in 2nd degree. (Class 3 felony)."

In 2012, "the grand jury indicted Melissa Gordy on the following charges: 11 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor under the age of 15 (class 2 felony); child abuse (class 4 felony) and one count of evidence tampering (class 6 felony). " (Source: Oro Valley Police Department; KGUN 9)
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Separate Fact from Spin At Tonight's Candidate Forum

Tonight, the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce and the local advertising circular  will host a candidate forum (See right panel for details).  It is the 3rd of 4 forums.  Both sponsoring organizations have been heavy supporters of the incumbents. The local advertising circular, for example, ran a recall Zinkin ad next to a posting by Zinkin explaining his position.  And the Chamber lives off the largess of the town.  So, really, we don't expect the challengers to be given much of a chance.

Still, we think that is it important to set the record straight regarding assertions made by candidates at last week's SunCity Oro Valley Forum since we may hear these again:

False Assertion: There Is No Division On Council Because Most Votes Have Been 7-0
Fact: One Measures Disharmony By Displayed Actions and Attitudes, Not By Votes. Besides,  Most Council Votes Are "No Brainers"

Whether or not there is divisiveness and a lack of civility on the part of the Majority-4 can not be measure by "vote counts."   Divisiveness is measured by actions. The actions of the Majority-4 for the past 2 years demonstrates an effort to divide and not harmonize the council.  They think that there are no consequences when they try to recall Council Member Zinkin, marginalize the ideas of Council Member Garner, and intimidate Council Member Burns with impunity.

The only ideas the Majority-4 accept are their own. They never consider ideas of the minority.  For example, the minority, seeking to understand options for future revenue sources, and there are many options beyond a property tax, sought to put the item up for discussion. They were voted down by the Majority-4.  Something is wrong when only some of the ideas are considered.

The Majority-4 wants to convince you to measure "divisiveness" by votes cast at council meetings.  They asserted this at the SunCity Forum.  According to them, 59% of the votes cast in council meetings from June 2012 to July 2014 were 7-0 votes.

There have been 15, 4-3 votes.  If the vote count has any validity as a measure of division, it is not only in the number of 4-3 votes.  It is in the quality of the no votes. The no votes concerned important matters like:

• Approval of a Master Sign Plan for El Dorado 
• Reappointment to CDRB (was this the Gil Alexander hearing?) 
• Reimbursement from the general fund for TEP underground lines 
• A Platt amendment for single family home 
• Changing the Chief of Police Reporting Structure 
• General Plan Amendment for Vistoso Highlands 
• Election of Vice Mayor Waters
• Oro Valley Personnel Policy 
• 2014/2015 Budget Adoption of Final Budget

The "3" no-votes are all of the minority.  

Division? You think? Repeat: All the no votes are always those of the minority.

We conclude that, by any, measure, qualitative or quantitative, there is great division on this council. As a result, the voices of those who support the minority are never heard.

False Assertion: Minority Council Members Voted Against Home Rule
Fact: All  7 Council Members Voted To Put Home Rule On The Ballot

Incumbent candidate Mayor Satish Hiremath dropped this one at last weeks SunCity Oro Valley Forum:

"Keep in mind, there are members of this council, who are not up for reelection who voted 'no' on home rule." 

You will vote on Home Rule in November. Its passage allows Oro Valley to spend considerably more that the amount that would be allotted by state limits. Oro Valley residents have approve home rule ballot measures every time the measure has been on the ballot.

Mayor Hiremath is wrong. All 7 council members voted to put "home rule" on the ballot

False Assertion: Candidate Bristow Is Against The Development of Parks
Fact: Candidate Bristow Is For The Planned, Not Haphazard, Development of Parks

At this same forum, Council Member Lou Waters alluded to a lack of support on the part of Candidate Don Bristow regarding parks.   "I find it most difficult to find that Mr. Bristow is on the "your Voice our Future" committee."  Waters made this assertion after Bristow had observed that Oro Valley moved ahead with building 2 ball fields at Naranja Park before completing a current town-sponsored study on what to put at the park.  Bristow stated that the plan should be developed before the project begins.

Bristow has never said he was against Parks. He is against haphazard, one-off, unplanned adventures.

False Assertion: Oro Valley "...Does Not Have A Lot of Challenges"
Fact: Oro Valley Has Many Challenges Facing It, Including Protecting Our Lifestyle

Council Member Joe Hornat measures Oro Valley's challenges in "dollars and cents."  He, like Mayor Hiremath, see no other challenges facing Oro Valley.

So, we present a list of some of the items put forth by the challengers and others:

• Oro Valley moves forward on building things without a plan, such as the ball fields at Naranja Park;
• Oro Valley moves forward with a flawed "remodeling" plan for the pool. Then, after being told that the initial drawings were not sufficient to produce a world-class pool, it raids the bed tax and contingency funds to fund twice what it planned to spend on the Oro Valley Aquatic Center;  
• Oro Valley fails to move forward on items that were agreed upon when there was a plan, such as Steam Pump Ranch;
• Oro Valley still does not have a Community Center, despite paying "lip service" to the need for one for 4 years;
• "Civility, Integrity and Teamwork" has been replaced with "arrogance and dismissiveness" on the part of the Majority-4. Our community is divided. Bringing Oro Valley together is a big challenge.
• Oro Valley must consistently work to do things things smarter: "Less money does not mean less services," according to Mayoral Candidate Pat Straney. 

And what of our "quality of life?"  Shouldn't that be in the mind of every Oro Valley elected official?

Today, Oracle Road is becoming like Ina Road in Marana: Traffic lights, heavy vehicular traffic, shopping centers and schlock signs.  800 new apartments will increase population density along Oracle Road, disproportionately burdening the need for town services.  Dark Skies ordinances need to be created to eliminate huge illumination signs like the 2 LA Fitness signs,.  How about our views and hillsides?  These certainly must be protected against the onslaught of requested general plan and zoning amendments.

We could go on and on, but we think you get the gist.
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Read the Arizona Daily Star's Fact Check of the Rancho Vistoso Forum.
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Bits and Pieces

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Sun City Oro Valley Forum Has No "Shockers"

There were no "shockers" at this week's Sun City Oro Valley Forum.  8 questions were asked and answered.  Each candidate presented a 2-minute opening and a 2-minute closing remark.  We parsed the opening remarks into 6 clips, one for each candidate.  There is one clip in total for the closing remarks. And one clip for each question.  Watch some or all of the forum on the Zeeman Channel.

Could Unaccompanied Alien Children Be Coming To Live In Oro Valley?

It is possible that Oro Valley, like Oracle, will be required to house Unaccompanied Alien Children ("UAC")?

 One of our readers sent us this article: "New Obama Rule Could Force Cities To House Illegals." Oro Valley could be impacted because Oro Valley signed on to Pima County's request for HUD grants.

We suspect that the Obama Administration will tell Oro Valley that it needs to house the people because of this, even though Oro Valley never actually gets HUD funding, the town did sign an Intergovernmental Agreement ("IGA") with Pima County to do so.  The agreement was signed by town attorney Joe Andrews on 7-13-13 of last year.

On the positive side, housing UAC's would immediately fill the  occupancy of the 800 plus "luxury apartments" that are coming on stream soon.
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Generous Oro Valley Residents, the ULS, help Vail Teacher

You will want to read this article about how an Oro Valley couple, Steve and Diane Uhl, are funding a Vail District school teacher's Arizona teaching license.  Their act is a generous response of kindness to a foolish State regulation.
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How Lake Mead's Water Shortage Could Affect Oro Valley

We have extolled the excellent work done by the Town Of Oro Valley in water conservation.  We've discussed steps such as recharging CAP Water, golf course use of reclaimed water, and getting a free home water audit.  In May, Heather's Corner suggested ways that each of us can conserve water.  All have resulted in putting Oro Valley in a safe water quality and water quantity position.

Water use, however, is not entirely in Oro Valley's hands. Oro Valley is also at the mercy of cities like Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas because Oro Valley does use CAP water to recharge its aquifer.

We have been following and reporting to you the steady decline of water levels in Lake Mead. It is now at 39% capacity.  Las Vegas is the primary user of Lake Mead water.  However, if Lake Mead gets lower, Las Vegas, a huge water hog, will draw from the entire CAP system.  This, together with other restrictions, will reduce Arizona's take from the system and, therefore, the take Oro Valley will get.

(Other information; Previous LOVE water postings)
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Oro Valley Republicans Host: "Meet The Candidates" Forget To Invite Straney and Bristow

The Oro Valley Republican group held a "meet the candidates" session last week. They invited Oro Valley's Majority-4. They did not invite challengers Pat Straney or Don Bristow.  Mayor Hiremath was invited.  Candidate Waters said the Hiremath did not attend because he had a "dental emergency."  Visit the Zeeman Channel to watch Hornat, Snider and Waters' remarks.
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Star Compares Straney-Hiremath Leadership Styles

This week, a article in the Star compared Pat Straneys' leadership style to that of Satish Hiremath.  It is easy to tell the leadership styles apart.  Straney guy listens. Hiremath lectures.  Straney unites. Hiremath takes up arms against a fellow council member. End of story.
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Tucson Realtors Endorse Incumbents or "Be Still My Heart"

This week, The Tucson Realtors Association endorsed Oro Valley's incumbents. (Source)
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Guest View-Patrick Straney: Why I Want To Be Your Mayor

As we approach the high energy season of the 2014 election cycle, several thoughts come to mind. I realize how fortunate I am to be a citizen of the United States of America, with all of our freedoms and inalienable rights. Along with this freedom comes responsibility and accountability.

I decided to seek office as Your Mayor for many reasons. Foremost, as a resident of this extraordinary community - which is the Town of Oro Valley - I consider it an honor as a responsible citizen to have the opportunity to provide the leadership, integrity, vision, and commitment required to help guide Oro Valley to a sustainable higher level of excellence in community services while preserving the history, culture and uniqueness that define Oro Valley. A key component of this leadership is the consideration of the needs of all residents, well beyond a focus on special interest segments of our Town. I hold the position of Mayor in high regard and will work to ensure that important key issues for the Town of Oro Valley are fully vetted I believe that energetic debate, discussion and consideration of alternate points of view will lead us toward a shared vision where important issues can be resolved through compromise, cooperation and teamwork. I look forward to a lively “Community Conversation.”

I have had the pleasure of serving as the President of the Rancho Vistoso HOA Board for the past seven years. During this time, I have learned a lot about community management and governance. Rancho Vistoso has witnessed exceptional growth centered on a solid fiscal policy. This was achieved, in large part – because of the commitment of many volunteers who gave unselfishly of their time and talents. I will work to implement that cohesiveness for the entire Town of Oro Valley. A community is stronger because of its citizen’s active involvement.

Although my management experience was honed in a large corporate structure, I fully understand the needs of small business and will seek “value added” opportunities that empower and expand the capabilities and success of our small and large business community in a consistent and mutually beneficial way. In addition, I believe that my extensive and proven “large organization” business skills have direct application to on-going development of excellence in municipal government.

Please join me in making Oro valley the best that it can be for all residents and businesses alike. “The Place to Live, Work and Play” in Southern Arizona.

I appreciate your consideration in this election. Please visit my website at www.VotePatStraneyMayor.com for more information.

Thank you for your support!

Patrick (Pat) Straney
Candidate for Mayor – Oro Valley, AZ.

The Stuff Of Movies: You Will Write The Ending On August 26

We don't think that we could find a better cast of characters and a plot for a movie about Oro Valley than that presented by the current "proven leadership" in Oro Valley.  It is the stuff of which movies are made.

Here's the movie:

"The 4 Bots"

The first characters are "The 4 Bots. "The 4 Bots"are not a 50's singing group.

"The 4 Bots" are four members of the council.

They are "The 4 Bots" because their behavior is entirely predictable and entirely the same at all times.  They have demonstrated this behavior for 4-plus years.  "The 4 Bots" approve whatever they are given by another character, "The Man With The Iron Fist".  Their knowledge source about town management is given to them by him. "The 4 Bots" always vote the same.  The only time they rise to action is when another set of characters, "The Citizen Centrics" offer an idea. Then, "The 4 Bots" knee-jerk a "NO"response, in unison and proceed, as a team, to attack the idea.

"The Man With The Iron Fist"

"The Man With The Iron Fist" runs the town.  In the old west, "The Man With The Iron Fist" would be the person who had the biggest cattle ranch. Today, he's the person to whom most (not the police) Oro Valley employees ultimately report.  All communications in Oro Valley must, under his rule, and do, under is rule, filter through "The Man With The Iron Fist".

"The Man With The Iron Fist" runs the town with an Iron Fist. He gets loyalty from his employees by more than adequately compensating them.  He has control of "The 4 Bots" because "The 4 Bots" are simply too lazy to prepare for each decision.  "The Man With The Iron Fist" makes life easy for "The 4 Bots."

"The Citizen Centrics"

Finally, we have the heroes of our story, "The Citizen Centrics."  "The Citizen Centrics" are council members like the "The 4 Bots".  Unlike the "The 4 Bots", the "The Citizen Centrics" read the materials they are given by "The Man With The Iron Fist".  Then they investigate. They then consider all factors. They think.

The Story Line

The thinking of the "The Citizen Centrics" is dangerous to "The 4 Bots" and "The Man With The Iron Fist." Thinking means that "The Citizen Centrics" might challenge something.  "The Man With The Iron Fist" knows that challenge, of course, is futile because "The 4 Bots" will always support him. "The Man With The Iron Fist" knows that "The 4 Bots" will never support any idea that is proposed by "The Citizen Centrics." So, "The Man With The Iron Fist" plays politics as he wishes.

The problem for "The Man With The Iron Fist" and "The 4 Bots" is that the "The Citizen Centrics"  know that they represent only one special interest group, the citizens Oro Valley.  "The Citizen Centrics" know that their job is not to simply approve what they are given. "The Citizen Centrics" know that their job is do more than merely to go to town events and smile. "The Citizen Centrics" know that it is their job to think. Think they must!

Challenge they do.

Conflict occurs.

How will the story end?

Will the ideas and concepts presented by "The Citizen Centrics" ever be considered?  Or will "The 4 Bots" and "The Man With The Iron Fist" continue to reign supreme control of Oro Valley?

How will the story end?

You will write the ending on August 26.
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Heather's Corner: The Bristow's Inspire Others Living With Diabetes

Did you know one of out nine Arizonans is affected by diabetes and one out of three children born after the year 2000, have been affected in some way.

According to the latest Arizona Diabetes Burden Report in 2011, there has been an 80% increase from 1995-2010 with people diagnosed with diabetes and due to those that go undetected it is reasonable to conclude there are more than 600,000 people living with diabetes here in our state. Chances are very high that you or someone you know is managing diabetes right now. (Source)

There is a steadfast national organization called the American Diabetes Association ("ADA"). The ADA local chapters in Arizona. These are dedicated to "...prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes." (Source) The ADA does this through funding research, providing services to communities, providing objective and credible information, and providing a voice for those living with diabetes that have been denied their rights.

Don Bristow, current Oro Valley Councilmember candidate, and his wife Diane, have long been volunteers for the ADA Southern Arizona Chapter for a number of years.  Diane has "lived as an insulin-dependent diabetic for 51+ years." Their intentions have always been to provide inspiration and hope for those living with diabetes and encourage them to know that it is possible to "celebrate 25, 50, 75 years or more of a life well-lived with diabetes."

Along with volunteering, they are both co-Chairs for the Rest Stops at the nationally held annual event, ADA Tour de Cure. The Tour de Cure is a 10k, 50k and 100k bike ride held each March. Its purpose is to "raise money and awareness for diabetes; provide community-based education programs; protect the rights of those with diabetes and fund research for a cure. This is one of two major fund-raising events for the Diabetic Association."

Source: Boston Museum of Science

Don and Diane Bristow's work with the ADA is of particular importance to Southern Arizona.

Diabetes is an extraordinary challenge for Southern Arizona's Tohono O'Odham Nation. It is so significant that the Nation, itself, identifies it as an epidemic.  "The Diabetes Epidemic: Until the 1960’s, no tribal member had ever suffered from type-2 (adult onset) diabetes. Today, more than 50% of all Tohono O’odham adults have the disease, the highest rate in the world." (Source)

"Many cultures that have lived in the Southwest deserts carry a gene that appears to help them adapt to cycles of food availability and scarcity that regularly occur in this environment," observers an exhibit at Boston's Museum of Science. This gene is common among the Tohono O'Odham people.

"People who carry this "feast or famine gene" generally have a lower metabolic rate."   Abundance of food, as in today's times, can lead to excessive weight gain.  Excessive weight is a major contributor to diabetes.

The ADA Southern Arizona chapter also helps advocate on federal, state, and local levels for the rights of individuals with diabetes and for setting the standards for care in hospitals and clinics. Some of their local events and programs consist of: Camp AZDA, family connection and support groups, quarterly "fun activities" designed to engage and educate children with diabetes and their families, and health fairs.

As always Oro Valley, there is room for you to get involved. Think about volunteering your time or resources to this cause. Chances are it is an organization that hits home closer than we'd like to appreciate.
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Heather Nenadovich has lived in Oro Valley a total of five years. She has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Arizona. Her husband is Canadian so she is a hockey fan by default and so are her two very clever children. When not being a mommy, she enjoys hiking in Catalina State Park, hand building pottery, and gardening. Her favorite things about living in Oro Valley are the towns recognition of art and culture, their commitment to preserving nature and the Christmas parade. (Also anything from GMG Chinese Bistro.)

Bits and Pieces- One Day Early

We're printing "Bits", our usual Friday feature, today, because tomorrow is the July 4 holiday.  Enjoy!
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READ: Key LOVE Election 2014 Email, Published By Southern Arizona News Examiner

Last Saturday, we sent an important Election 2014 email to our LOVE email list. We are pleased that the Southern Arizona News Examiner  published it.  Please take a moment to read the posting. The August 26 election is critical to Oro Valley's future.
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July HiVE Deployments

These is the schedule for this month's Oro Valley Police High Visibility Enforcement on Oracle Road, between Magee and Suffolk. Be aware. Be careful!

• July 9, 2014 4 - 7 p.m.
• July 15, 2014 7 - 10 a.m.
• July 22, 2014 4 - 7 p.m. 
• July 30, 2014 4 - 7 p.m.

(Source: Oro Valley Police Department Press Release)

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PLEASE DO NOT TAMPER WITH CAMPAIGN SIGNS

We have received reports of sign tampering of signs of the Don Bristow and Patrick Straney. In some cases, the signs were stolen. In other cases, the signs were moved or deliberately covered by a Majority-4 sign. As we have reported previously, tampering with a sign is a felony. Please leave the campaigns signs as they are placed. And please do not tamper with them in any manner.

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Oro Valley Shows Continued Slow Business Development

The Oro Valley  economic development report  lists new businesses coming to Oro Valley. Yet again, this month's report shows that there is nothing of any significance in terms of new businesses.  The only significant item, as reported last month, is that Chuy's is coming to the Capin Car Center. Chuy's will be located where 2 other restaurants have already failed.  The report lists yet another nail salon, "Art of Nails", coming to town. This one at First and Tangerine where Ace Hardware is located.

We wonder: Have they ordered their A-frame sign yet?
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What Me Worry?  Oro Valley High Paying Jobs

Speaking of economic development, click here for another example of "high paying" Oro Valley job opportunities.  Its a job as a produce clerk at Sprouts.
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Your Oro Valley Neighbor: World Class "Air Racer" Jon Sharp

Source: Nemesis NXT Web Site

"Nemisis Air Racing (Oro Valley, Ariz.) is an air racing team owned and operated by Jon and Patricia Sharp. Formerly a composites engineer at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works (Palmdale, Calif.), Jon Sharp is a legendary [and retired] air racer: He won the Reno Air Racing National Championships nine consecutive times in a tiny International Formula 1 racing aircraft, dubbed Nemesis, which he and his team developed and fabricated in the early 1990s. The most successful aircraft in air-racing history, the original Nemesis is on display in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (Washington, D.C.)." (Source).

His company is Nemesis NXT.
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Lots To Do At The Oro Valley Library

Looking for something to do? Look no further than the Oro Valley Branch of the Pima County Library.  Here's a link to their many events.
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No Time Left For Photo Opportunities 

One of LOVE's  Facebook friends noted that some of the Majority-4 show up for town photo opportunities ("Events") while the Minority-3 don't always show up.  Council Members Hornat, Snider and Waters are retired.  Apparently, they have the time to show up for photo opportunities. Mayor Hiremath loves photo opportunities. He would never miss one.

The Minority-3, on the other hand, did not seek council seats to build their ego.  Council Members Bill Garner and Brendan Burns have jobs. They are not retired nor do they own their own business.  They work for "the man."  Council Member Zinkin spends his time preparing for council meetings or helping residents.  None of these 3 have much time left over for photo ops.
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