Happy 250 America...

America is turning 250! 

LOVE wishes all of our readers a safe, happy and memorable Fourth of July.

Oro Valley will mark the occasion Saturday with America’s Birthday Bash at James D. Kriegh Park. Join friends and neighbors for an evening of community celebration, entertainment and patriotic fun.

Remember to vote. Nothing could be more patriotic.

250 Years and Counting!

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Bits and Pieces

Grant awarded for ADA improvements at Vistoso Trails
The Oro Valley Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-42 in August, authorizing acceptance of a $144,500 grant from Arizona State Parks to fund ADA improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. The project will cover pathway repairs, new safety signage, and the construction of compacted decomposed granite ADA trails. The Town’s contribution is $8,734.36, or about 5.7% of the $153,234 total cost. LOVE reported on this grant application back in March 2024, and now the funding has been awarded.

YouTuber confrontation moves to Sahuarita...with success

In April, we reported that a “YouTuber” had come to Oro Valley to “bait the cops.” We did not name the individual or their website because we did not want to draw traffic to their site.  That person was at it again—this time in Sahuarita. And this time, however, it looks like it worked. In early August, an incident occurred at the Sahuarita Police Department when the individual was forcibly removed and arrested from a public area by the Chief of Police. This in follow up to what appears to be a terribly botched Sahuarita Police welfare check on a home a year earlier. A video of the arrest incident and of the botch welfare check is available online. 

May 2025 Crime Statistics

Town attorney contract renewed
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-35 in August to renew the contract with Mesch Clark Rothschild, P.C. for another year of Town Attorney services. The firm has represented Oro Valley since September 2021, when it was first selected following a competitive process. Since then, the contract has been renewed annually, making this the fourth extension. Under the agreement, the Town pays a fixed rate of $1,025 per council meeting, with additional legal services billed at $200 per hour for attorneys and $120 per hour for paralegals.

School resource officer assigned to Leman Academy
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-40, in August authorizing an agreement with Leman Academy of Excellence to assign an Oro Valley police officer as a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO). Leman was awarded a three-year School Safety Program grant from the Arizona Department of Education in 2023 to cover the cost of salary and benefits. The 2025–26 school year is the third year of this grant cycle. The grant reimburses the Town for salary and employee-related expenses, so this does not add costs beyond what is already budgeted.

Another Fiber right-of-way license granted
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-38 in August, authorizing a right-of-way license agreement with Ripple Fiber Arizona LLC. The license allows Ripple to install and maintain fiber-optic cable within Oro Valley rights-of-way to provide fiber-to-the-premise service. It runs for an initial 10-year term with three optional five-year renewals. Similar agreements were approved with Wyyerd Fiber and Novos Fiber, making Ripple the third provider licensed since June. Ripple will pay the Town $0.89 per linear foot of conduit installed, with annual reporting to verify total footage.

June 2025 Crime Statistics

Town Manager’s August report to Council highlights Fall start of Naranja MUP and more

The August executive report included several notable updates. The Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path, a $3.99 million project that is 91% grant funded, is scheduled to break ground this fall and be completed by March 2026. The Northwest Recharge and Recovery Delivery System is also progressing, with more than seven miles of pipeline under construction and three recovery wells already drilled. When completed in mid-2026, this project will provide long-term water sustainability for more than 115,000 customers across Oro Valley and neighboring communities. The report also highlighted a record crowd of nearly 10,000 people at this year’s Independence Day celebration. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, August 2025)

Oro Valley employee guidance is not binding

Did you know that the town disclaims any information you receive in conversation, email, or a meeting with a Town employee? That such information is only preliminary and not binding? That it may not even be correct? According to the town, only a formal written determination from a Town Administrator is official. Staff comments or responses are not the same as legal documents, and the Town says that it cannot be held liable if informal guidance or information is wrong. As a result, you should independently verify information before relying on it. (Source: Town Disclaimer)

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Bits and Pieces

Unusual fiscal year-end council meeting called to address funding gap for Naranja Drive path project 

The Oro Valley Town Council will hold a special Zoom meeting Monday—the very last day of the fiscal year—to consider an urgent funding amendment for the Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path project. The meeting addresses a $341,000 estimated project shortfall after construction bids came in higher than expected for the project. Council will decide whether to use leftover funds from other 2025 street projects to keep the Naranja path on track for a summer start and early 2026 completion. In order for these monies to be available for use in the next fiscal year, the leftover funds must be designated for multi-use path construction before the end of this fiscal year. Our guess is that the urgent meeting is needed so the funds can be designated for this use before the fiscal year closes.

Fourth of July festivities and new shade at the tennis courts

Oro Valley’s annual Fourth of July Celebration returns to James D. Kriegh Park on July 4, featuring live music, food trucks, a beer garden, family games, and fireworks, plus the town’s first-ever hot dog eating contest at 7:30 p.m. In addition, construction is underway on new shaded viewing and seating areas at the Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility, with completion expected in July—giving tennis players and spectators a cooler, more comfortable space for summer matches and community events.  Read even more about what is going on this this weeks's Town of Oro Valley "This Week In Parks and Rec”  bulletin. 

Interested in helping Oro Valley build its tourism base? Apply now for one of five seats on the new Tourism Advisory Commission

Oro Valley is launching a brand new Tourism Advisory Commission and is now accepting applications from residents who want to help shape the town’s future as a top destination for visitors. The five-member commission will advise the Town Council on everything from strategic marketing to special events, resort partnerships, and tourism budget priorities. If you have experience or a strong interest in hospitality, travel, marketing, or events—or just want to make a difference in how the town promotes itself—this is a great way to get involved. Members will serve three-year terms and the group will meet monthly for the first year, then quarterly after that. Applications are open now. Apply here or call by the Town Clerk’s Office at (520) 229-4700 for more information.  Read how all this came about in LOVE. 

 

Park painting project underway in Rancho Vistoso

Rancho Vistoso has started a summer-long painting project at Hohokam and Wildlife Ridge Parks, with crews repainting perimeter walls, restrooms, and ramadas to freshen up these popular community spaces. The work began June 9 and will continue through the season. Residents are encouraged to watch for “Wet Paint” signs and to avoid the areas being painted until the project is complete, helping ensure a safe and smooth update for everyone who uses the parks. (Source) 

Oro Valley Water: Smart water tips and a new bill payment portal now live

The latest Oro Valley Water Utility newsletter is packed with helpful updates for residents this summer. Most notably, the Town has rolled out a new online bill payment portal, making it easier than ever to manage your water account and pay bills securely from home. The newsletter also offers timely water-saving tips to help you conserve during the hottest months, including suggestions for efficient irrigation and reminders about monsoon season preparation. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out the Water Utility website for more details and to explore the new portal—small changes can make a big difference for your bill and the community. (Source:  Town of Oro Valley "Behind The Meter) .

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Bits and Pieces

Help Your Neighbors—Town Seeks Part-Time Shuttle Drivers
The Town of Oro Valley is now hiring part-time drivers for its Sun Shuttle service, offering a flexible, community-focused role that requires no previous experience or commercial license. Drivers provide door-to-door transportation for elderly, disabled, and other residents, helping them stay mobile and independent. Paid training is included, and drivers can work up to three days a week in a low-stress, rewarding environment. If you’re retired, semi-retired, or simply looking to make a difference, visit the Town’s website to apply. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release, June 9, 2025)

Oro Valley’s July 4th Celebration Promises Fun for All Ages
Oro Valley invites residents to its free Independence Day celebration at James D. Kriegh Park (23 W. Calle Concordia) on Friday, July 4, 2025, from 5 to 9:20 p.m. Festivities kick off at 5 p.m. with food trucks, games, and crafts, followed by live music from the Lucky Devils Band, and a fireworks show at 9 p.m. Parking is available at the Aquatic Center and Canyon del Oro High School, with ADA parking at the Aquatic Center east lot. The Aquatic Center offers $1 admission for children and $3 for adults from noon to 5 p.m. before closing for the evening’s events. Attendees are reminded to bring water and sunscreen, and to leave pets, tents, and outside alcohol at home. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release , June 4, 2025)

Crime Stays Low, But Summer Safety Reminders from OVPD 
The latest Oro Valley CrimeFighter newsletter shows that serious crime remains rare in town, with no robberies or violent incidents reported in April, but several car break-ins and minor thefts did occur. As summer approaches, the police are reminding everyone to stay vigilant—lock your vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and watch children closely around water. OVPD also encourages residents to take advantage of free programs like vacation house checks and car seat safety inspections, which can be arranged on the Town website.

Local author Tim Tarris serves up a fun summer romance
Looking for a relaxing summer read? Check out The Lady and the Locket, a delightful love story written by Oro Valley resident and author Tim Tarris. This charming book has everything you need for summer relaxation—romance, excitement, and a clever twist at the end. Tim’s engaging writing style, featuring short chapters filled with lively dialogue, makes it easy and fun to read. Order your copy now on Amazon, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy!

Stickers and savings: Oro Valley’s summer dining adventure
This summer, the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce invites you to support local eateries with its Locals Eat Local campaign. Running through August, the event challenges residents to visit 20 participating restaurants to collect unique, limited-edition Oro Valley stickers. As an extra incentive, when you spend at least $20 at five different participating locations, you'll qualify for a grand prize from the Chamber. Track your progress using the Explore OV app, and pick up your challenge map at the Chamber office or the Oro Valley Library. Get the details at orovalleychamber.com or by following @OVChamber on Facebook and Instagram (Source: Oro Valley Vista Newsletter, June/July 2025).

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Bridge Repair Funding... Police Communication Staffing... and Other Good News From the August Town Manager Report To Council

The Town Manager’s Report: A Snapshot of Oro Valley’s Progress
The monthly Town Manager’s "Executive Report To Council" is always very informative. It includes a highlight page from the Town Manager, a bunch of statistics, and a report from each of the major departments. Here is a sample of some of the good news from the August report.

Federal funding received for bridge repair
The town received $685,000 in federal funding for the repair of the Honeybee Wash Bridge on Rancho Vistoso Boulevard. This grant allows for much-needed repairs to begin in Spring 2025, ensuring safe travel for residents. While routine, this type of funding is essential for maintaining the town’s infrastructure and addressing key areas that need attention.

Finally, a fully staffed Police communications civision
Another positive development is that the Oro Valley Police Department’s Telecommunications Division is now fully staffed for the first time since 2019. This marks an important recovery in the department’s operations, which had been strained due to long-term staffing shortages. With a full team in place, the department can now better manage workloads and improve response times, leading to more efficient service for residents.

Progress on Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve
In terms of environmental progress, the restoration of Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve is moving forward with partnerships and funding applications. The town is working with organizations like Tucson Audubon to restore native habitats and control invasive species. Although much of this effort is still in its early stages, it reflects a commitment to preserving the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Successful community events and engagement
Community engagement remains a focal point for the town. The Fourth of July event at James D. Kreigh Park saw over 10,000 attendees, making it one of the year’s most significant gatherings. Additionally, as part of the town’s 50th Anniversary celebration, there are plans to rename West Lambert Lane Park with input from local youth. Events like these show the town’s ongoing effort to bring residents together and create shared experiences.

Oro Valley’s steady progress
Overall, the August report offers a snapshot of steady progress in Oro Valley. With infrastructure projects, staffing improvements, and community-driven initiatives underway, the town is taking measured steps to maintain and enhance its services. While no major changes are taking place, these updates reflect consistent efforts to meet the needs of residents and support the town’s future growth.

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Bits and Pieces

Saturday, celebrate Henry King Zipf
Henry King Zipf was a fifth-generation Tucsonan, born to Henry George Zipf and Ann Lourie Zipf, and the great-grandson of George Pusch, for whom Pusch Ridge, Pusch View Lane, Pusch Ridge Golf Course, Pusch Ridge Christian Academy, and many other areas in Oro Valley are named. Henry was also a lifetime active member, Board member, and past President of the Oro Valley Historical Society. He was born on June 15, 1956, and he died on May 7, 2023. 

In honor of him, on the anniversary of his birthday, the Oro Valley Historical Society will hold a commemorative gathering at the Pusch House Museum on the historic Steam Pump Ranch at 10901 North Oracle Road on June 15 at 10 a.m.

Henry and his father loved riding horses through the Catalina Mountains (before it became a state park). With donations made in Henry’s honor from friends, members of the Society, and family members, the Society has purchased and will dedicate a memorial bench that will sit in front of the Pusch House, facing his beloved mountains and his great-grandfather’s home. The Society welcomes all who visit the Ranch to enjoy the view from this site, which contributed significantly to the early development of the Tucson region.

Before and after the dedication, enjoy the Saturday Heirloom Farmers’ Market and tour the Pusch House Museum from 9 a.m. to noon. Docents will be available to answer questions and provide additional information about the Oro Valley Historical Society, formed to keep Oro Valley history alive. Join us – history loves company! (Source; OVHistory.org)

Oro Valley celebrates July 4

"Join the Town of Oro Valley at James D. Kriegh Park for its annual July 4th Celebration. This free, family-friendly event begins at 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, with live entertainment and fun activities throughout the night. Then, at 9 p.m., we’ll light up the sky with fireworks!"  (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Key council election dates

Just a reminder to act now to make sure you vote in the July 30 election.  Here are the key dates:

• July 1: Last day to register for the election
• July 3: Mail in ballots sent and mail in voting begins
• July 19: Deadline for getting a mail in ballot
• July 23: Get you mail in ballot in...
• July 30: Vote in person or bring your mail in ballot to the polls if you have one and did not mail it. 

Questions: Call the Pima County Recorder's office: 520-74-4330.

Bits and Pieces

Round Up at the Ranch 5K run/walk on June 18

“If you’re looking for a fun opportunity to get moving while supporting a great cause, join the Town of Oro Valley on Sunday, June 18 for the eighth annual Round Up at the Ranch 5K Run/Walk! Proceeds from this event will benefit the Town’s Rounds Up For Youth Recreation Scholarship Program, which makes fee-based recreation programs accessible to Oro Valley youth who reside in financially constrained households…Registration is $30 in advance or $40 on race day. Children 12 and under race for free with a paying adult." Register here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Real Fireworks this year

The town is hosting a July 4 fireworks event at Kreigh Park! “The free, family-friendly event begins at 5 p.m. with live entertainment and fun activities throughout the night. Then, at 9 p.m., we’ll light up the sky with fireworks! "

Schedule of Events

• 5 p.m. Event begins at JDK Park (or cool off at the OV Aquatic Center) 
• 6:15 – 7 p.m. Live music by Heart & Soul 
• 7:15 – 7:45 p.m. Entertainment by Frank!Powers
• 8:00-8:50 p.m. Live music by Heart & Soul 
• 9:00 – 9:20 p.m. Fireworks show

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Happy Birthday America!

Happy Independence Day!

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LOVE returns July 8th

Bits and Pieces

Daily public access to Steam Pump Ranch in the offing
Town Manager Mary Jacobs is hopeful that the Steam Pump Ranch will be daily Oro Valley attraction. This after the town renovates once renovation of the garage on the property is done. She has included $550,000 for that. Once completed, staff will work from the facility. You can read more about this and other items in the TMRB here.

July 4th fireworks at Community Center
The town has cancelled its July 4 celebration but not the fireworks. “The good news is that we are still planning an epic fireworks show from the Community and Recreation Center. We will be using larger shells that will soar higher into the night sky,” said Parks and Recreation Director Kristy Diaz-Trahan. “We really wanted to host a July 4th celebration this year. This community needs it, but ultimately the decision is about public safety.” (Source)

Need sandbags for the monsoon?
"Beginning Monday, June 15, the Town of Oro Valley will provide free sandbags to residents who may need to protect areas of their homes from storm runoff during monsoon. Sandbags can be picked up [at Naranja Park] beginning Monday June 15, through the duration of the 2020 monsoon. Due to a limited number of supplies, only Town of Oro Valley residents are eligible, and there is a limit of 10 sandbags per vehicle. Sandbags are self-service; you will need to bag and load your own sand." (source)

Community Center and Aquatic Centers open Monday
"The Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center and Oro Valley Aquatic Center will be reopening on Monday, June 1, 2020." Doing this safely will be of primary importance. The town will be following county reopening rules.

The bad guys are back
One of things Chief Riley told us in our interview a few weeks back was that she expected shoplifting to be center state as retailers re-opened. KGUN9 showed a video of bad guys doing just that at Walmart this week. Take a look. Call the cops if you know these guys. Crime never takes a break.

Ben Coronado, Oro Valley resident, appointed Civilian Aid to the US Secretary of the Army
He was appointed on May 14 at Ft. Huachuca. "CASAs, a vital part of the Army, promote good relations between the Army and the public and advise the secretary on regional issues." Read about him here.

Another Opportunity to Meet the Town Council Challengers

Candidates Host Voter Registration Drives at Oro Valley Parks on July 4th

PRESS RELEASE:  In celebration of our country’s independence and right to elect a representative government, the candidates for Oro Valley Mayor and Town Council will be hosting voter registration drives at parks around Oro Valley.

Candidate Joe Winfield explained their reasons for doing this, stating that “Registering to vote, being informed about community issues, and voting for the best qualified candidates are the responsibility of good citizenship.” Joyce Jones-Ivey elaborated further: “We want to listen to and respond to the citizens of Oro Valley, not special interests. We want to represent the people, including new residents that have not yet registered to vote.”

Winfield and Town Council candidates Melanie Barrett, Josh Nicolson, and Joyce Jones-Ivey will spend the morning of the 4th of July at Riverfront park talking to community members and encouraging voter registration. Later in the evening, they will host a booth with registration materials during the 4th of July event at Naranja Park.

The slate of candidates will also hold an informational meeting on July 9th at 6:30 pm at the Community Center.

More information can be found at JoeWinfieldmayor.com; MelanieBarrett.org; JJonesIvey4OV.org, JoshforOroValley.com

LOVE is on vacation for the remainder of the week.

Happy July 4

LOVE wishes you a happy July 4. It's America's Birthday!

Enjoy the freedom we all share.

LOVE will return next Monday, July 11

Oro Valley Celebrates July 4

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Tomorrow, Oro Valley celebrates Independence Day.  Here's more on town events at Kreigh Park tomorrow.  The following was excerpted from the official Oro Valley press release.
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"The Town of Oro Valley is proud to announce that on Thursday, July 4, 2013, beginning at 3 p.m., it will host an afternoon of activities for the whole family. Then at 9 p.m., festivities culminate with a spectacular fireworks display, sponsored by the Hilton El Conquistador Golf and Tennis Resort. All the fun takes place at James D. Kriegh Park, 23 W. Calle Concordia, in Oro Valley.

Live Entertainment
3 - 5:30 p.m. Brian Dean Trio
5:45 - 8:30 p.m. Little House of Funk
8:45 p.m. National Anthem, sung by Tucson Desert Harmony
9:00 p.m. Fireworks, sponsored by the Hilton El Conquistador

For The Kids
A variety of activities and arts and crafts projects will be available at Green Field, including: bounce house, rock-climbing wall, tie-dye t-shirts, face painting, make patriotic necklaces, decorate a visor.

Aquatic Center Hours of Operatoin
5 a.m. - noon Regular admission
Noon - 3 p.m. CLOSED
3 - 8:30 p.m. Reduced admission: $1 children, $2 adultsnd more! Please visit the Aquatic Center for additional activities.

Parking
The main lot at James D. Kriegh Park, just off Calle Concordia, will be reserved for ADA/handicapped parking only. General parking is available at Canyon del Oro High School, just west of James D. Kriegh Park, and along Calle Concordia.

Restrictions
No pets, no alcohol, no weapons, no glass."
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We will next post on Monday, July 8.  Have a great holiday weekend.  
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