Jim Williams Receives National History Award for "Oro Valley The First Fifty Years"

A prestigious recognition for Oro Valley history

Jim Williams, a longtime Oro Valley resident and past president of the Oro Valley Historical Society, has been awarded the 2024 Award of Excellence by the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) for his book, Oro Valley The First Fifty Years. The AASLH Leadership in History Awards, now in its 80th year, is recognized as one of the highest honors for achievement in preserving and interpreting state and local history.

A career dedicated to education and local history
Williams moved to Oro Valley in 2006 after a career as a social studies educator in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, where he served as a teacher, department chair, and district coordinator. He was recognized in Pennsylvania for his contributions to education. In Arizona, he has written two articles for the Journal of Arizona History. His first book about Oro Valley, Claiming the Desert, was published in 2018 and focuses on the area’s settlers, homesteaders, and ranchers from 1865 to 1965. 

Books that give back to the community
Both Oro Valley The First Fifty Years and Claiming the Desert are available for purchase on Amazon, at the Western National Parks store on North Vistoso Village Drive, and at the Pusch House Museum at historic Steam Pump Ranch. Proceeds from book sales benefit the Oro Valley Historical Society.

Congratulations to Jim Williams
The Oro Valley Historical Society congratulates Jim Williams on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his dedication to keeping Oro Valley’s history alive.

Oro Valley Historical Society celebrates 20 years
The Oro Valley Historical Society, an all-volunteer nonprofit, is celebrating its 20th year of keeping Oro Valley’s history alive. The Society’s mission is to promote research, preservation, education, and the sharing of history related to the greater Oro Valley area.

About the AASLH Award of Excellence
The AASLH Award of Excellence honors projects and individuals in civic engagement, special projects, educational programs, exhibits, publications, and lifetime achievement. Winners represent the best in their field and provide leadership for the future of state and local history.

Learn more at www.ovhistory.org and read LOVE previous reports about Jim here.

Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley's 50th: Join Historian Jim Williams for Two May Celebrations

In celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th birthday (April, 1974), the Oro Valley Historical Society is presenting two talks by Jim Williams, our former President, current historian, and author of the book Oro Valley The First Fifty Years.

On Wednesday, May 8 at 2 p.m. Jim Williams will talk about Oro Valley’s first fifty years at the Western National Parks store on North Vistoso Village Drive in Oro Valley. The making of a town isn’t easy, and it took a long time with many twists and turns. Jim covers that journey and the people who made it happen. 

On Monday, May 13 and Monday 20, Jim Williams will be giving two talks about our history from early settlers to today. The talks will be from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Oro Valley Public Library, and you can attend one or both. You’ll be amazed at what those who came before us endured, why they came here, and how they were important to making Oro Valley the town it is today. Join the Oro Valley Historical Society as we keep Oro Valley history alive!

Amphi School District Reimbursed Oro Valley $90,000 for SRO Support this year

The Oro Valley Police Department "...engages with the Amphitheater School District to seek reimbursement for SRO services on a yearly basis. This request is intended to encompass all Amphitheater schools within the town’s jurisdiction. These schools include: CDO High School, IRHS High School, Innovation Academy, Wilson Elementary School, Copper Creek Elementary School, and Painted Sky Elementary School. 

The requests for reimbursement occur at the conclusion of each school year and is accomplished through direct communication with Superintendent Yeager. It is an open-ended request wherein the district is if asked if they have available funding to augment or replenish the costs of OVPD officers serving in the schools. For fiscal year 23/24, Amphitheater School District reimbursed the Town of Oro Valley in the amount of $90,000. This is the largest such contribution in the last five years." (Source: Jessica Hynd, Town of Oro Valley Constituent Services Coordinator/ Management Assistant)

Reflecting on two of Oro Valley's 50th Anniversary Celebrations

"On back-to-back Saturdays this month, the Town of Oro Valley celebrated its 50th anniversary with a parade along Naranja Drive on April 6 and a community celebration event at James D. Kriegh Park on April 13. View photos from each event on the Town of Oro Valley’s Facebook page. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Reflecting on 25 Years: Oro Valley's Mayoral Roundtable

25 years of leadership on display
The Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) hosted a roundtable last week with three mayors: Paul Loomis, Satish Hiremath, and Joe Winfield. Collectively, their time in office spans the last 25 years of the town’s 50-year history. The roundtable was the third of four special events hosted by OVHS in celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary. Oro Valley historian Jim Williams moderated the event. Loomis served in office from 1998-2010; Hiremath from 2010-2018; and Winfield from 2018 to the present.

Accomplishments of which they are most proud
Asked about the things they are most proud of accomplishing during their term, Loomis spoke of infrastructure development, including roadways, bridges, and water systems, as well as fostering regional cooperation with neighboring towns. He also highlighted commercial developments and stabilizing town policies, notably transitioning the employee retirement system.

Hiremath highlighted his administration's focus on creating a holistic community environment conducive to living, working, and playing. Key achievements included attracting the state's first veterinary school, facilitating innovation park development, annexations, cultural investments like Tohono Chul, economic growth through private investments, and initiatives supporting veterans, education, and safety. He also mentioned community programs like the Dark House Program and various recreational and educational developments.

Winfield emphasized accomplishments achieved through collective efforts, including hiring key personnel like Chief Riley and Judge Hazel, addressing the police pension shortfall, investing in parks, creating the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, and facilitating mixed-use development.

Things they would have done differently
Loomis discussed two unfinished annexations, particularly one involving Arroyo Grande, land north of Oro Valley up to the Pima County line, which was put on hold due to changes in state administration. He also stressed the need for better public education regarding town regulations and processes, suggesting that increased awareness could lead to less controversy surrounding council decisions.

Hiremath admitted to shortcomings in messaging during his term, particularly regarding misconceptions about projects such as the community center. He acknowledged a failure to effectively defend these initiatives against public scrutiny, highlighting the importance of transparent communication to counteract misinformation and foster understanding among residents.

Winfield focussed on things he wished the town hand done differently. He felt that decisions early in the town's history, which placed responsibility for parks on homeowner associations, may not have been in the best interest of residents. That decision resulted in smaller parks and poor trail connectivity.

Citizen involvement matters
The three mayors characterized citizen involvement as helping to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.

Loomis noted that new ideas and alternatives are often presented by residents. He noted a common challenge: Public engagement tends to occur late in the decision-making process, making it difficult to incorporate changes. He lamented that negativity tends to overshadow positive accomplishments, urging for a more balanced perspective.

Hiremath emphasizes the importance of considering all residents' viewpoints, even if they are single-issue focused. He underscored the necessity for council members to prioritize the broader community's interests over individual preferences.

Winfield encourages continued engagement, particularly in the formulation of the general plan, which serves as a blueprint for the town's future. He urged residents to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping Oro Valley's trajectory through platforms like ovpathforward.com.

Three Mayors…. Three different impacts
The roundtable showcased 25 years of collective leadership in Oro Valley. Each put their mark on the community. Oro Valley expanded its infrastructure under Paul Loomis, bolstered its economic base under Satish Hiremath, and, under Winfield’s current leadership, has further developed its parks and recreational system.

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Oro Valley: The First Fifty Years

James Williams new book takes a unique look at the history of the Town of Oro Valley 

James Williams resides in Oro Valley and is an author. Several years ago, he authored “Claiming the Desert: Settlers, Homesteaders, and Ranchers in Oro Valley, Arizona, from 1965 to 1965.” Then, well over a year ago, he undertook the challenge of documenting Oro Valley’s first 50 years. 

Creating a fifty year history was a daunting task

This task proved to be quite challenging, mainly because there is no single, comprehensive source for the town’s history. Instead, Williams had to do thorough research into town records, conduct numerous interviews, collect photographs, and engage with key individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping the community.

The book focuses on the factors that shaped the community

The 200-page book explores Oro Valley through 14 chapters. Yes. The book does start with the town’s formation in 1974; but i offers more than a mere day-by-day historical account. Instead, it takes a comprehensive view of the factors that have shaped Oro Valley into what it is today. For instance, it delves into the significant roles that golf and growth have played in our town’s development.

There’s “lots to learn”

It is an enjoyable read because there is lots to be learned:

• Early Oro Valley government used volunteer workers to save money (p39,1)
• Most of the streets were dirt or gravel and much of the land was open space when the town incorporated in 1974
• The Sheraton El Conquistador was the financial salvation of the town in 1980
• In 1990, seven water companies served Oro Valley (p68)
• Residents voted to approve the original Oro Valley Marketplace. It was supposed to be an “upscale shopping experience
• Naranja Park was a sand and gravel pit (p108)

A read for all… Available on Amazon

Jim has crafted a true masterpiece of Oro Valley’s history. It is a worthwhile read for everyone, offering a glimpse into how the town evolved into what it is today.  Purchase the book from Amazon.

Bits and Pieces

Celebrate Oro Valley Tomorrow at Steam Pump Ranch

"Come on down to Steam Pump Ranch on Saturday, April 8 for the Town’s annual Celebrate Oro Valley event! This free, family-friendly event runs from 8 a.m. to noon, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you like the monthly Second Saturdays at Steam Pump Ranch events, then you’ll LOVE Celebrate Oro Valley. We’ve got all the great stuff from Second Saturdays...including your favorite farmers market."   Click for more details. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

Jim Williams' Book "Oro Valley-The First 50 years" will be available on Amazon this summer

Oro Valley Historian Jim Williams has created a history of the Town of Oro Valley, from its inception in 1974 to 2020. Author of the book "Claiming the Desert", an early history of the Town of Oro Valley, Williams has been busy interviewing and researching for the past two years. The book is far more than a chronology of events. Rather, Jim chose to focus on topics that were important in each decade and how these issues were resolved.  Jim's latest update to LOVE: "I have formatted the entire book and loaded it into one file. I have added all the pictures but am waiting for release from the owners on a few. It should be all done and printed by Amazon by July."  We will let you know when the book is released.

Can "Council On Your Corner" sessions be done safely?

There was a time when representatives would meet informally with their constituents. All that changed on January 8, 2011. That was the day that Congressperson Gabrielle Giffords was shot about 11am outside of Safeway (Ina and Oracle). The gunman killed six people. There is a plaque there to memorialize that tragic day. 

Giffords was holding a "Meet and Greet" discussion with constituents. Nine year old Christina Taylor Greene was waiting in line to meet her idol when the shooting started. Christina was killed along with the five other victims on that most terrible morning.  Green Field in Kreigh Park is named for her.  No political figure has held such a session since that date.

During the last election, some current Oro Valley council members talked of reinstating our version of "Meet and Greet" called "Council On Your Corner".  Perhaps, with proper security, this can be done. You see. Giffords had no security that day.

(This is a link to a detailed report on this terrible shooting.)

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Bits and Pieces

Pima County has a "solution" to lost dogs
We are astounded by the number of pets that are lost almost daily in Oro Valley.  "Attaching a tag to your pet's collar might seem like a small thing, but it makes a big difference! Lost pets wearing tags return home faster." When you register your pet with the County, as you should annually, your pet becomes part of the "HomeSafe" program. Your pet gets a tag with their name on it and a unique code. When someone finds your pet, all they need to do is go to docupet.com to find you. If you lose your pet, you can go to the same site to let the world know your "baby" is missing. The service comes when you pay your annual fee.

Oro Valley wins 27th consecutive annual finance award

Oro Valley, Arizona (October 19, 2021) –– 

For the 27th year in a row, the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the Town of Oro Valley by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment for the Town. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

Jim Williams is writing "Oro Valley History"

Oro Valley resident Jim Williams, author of "Claiming the Desert" is in the process of creating a history of the Town of Oro Valley, from incorporation in 1974 to present. "I got bored during covid and I already researched some early parts of life in the sixties and seventies, I thought: 'Well, I'll keep going." Williams is in the process of interviewing and gathering information. If you have and interesting story you would like to share with Jim please send it to us a letorovalleyexcel@yahoo.com. We will forward it to him.

Next town council meeting will be November 3

This week's council meeting had a consent agenda item that would have cancelled the November 3 meeting. This cancellation would have followed two consecutive council meetings in which there were no regular agenda items. That is: Nothing of any substance discussed.  After much confusion about what no vote would me, the council decided to not approve the cancellation. In other words, there will be a November 3 town council meeting. 

Speaking in favor of holding the meeting, Council Member Bohen said he had identified five items that ought to have regular meeting session attention. For some very odd and unknown reason, Bohen was not allowed to mention the five because the outside legal council said it would be a violation of the "open meeting laws." We believe that mentioning what the five were would not be a violation. Discussing and deciding upon them would have been because there would have been no public notice that such a discussion would take place.

Mural unveiling Monday at Kreigh Park

"The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, the Town of Oro Valley, Visit Tucson, and the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce will officially debut a new vibrant mural by local artist Ashley White at the James D. Kriegh Park at 23 W Calle Concordia, Oro Valley, AZ 85704. The celebration marks the first ever community mural project in Oro Valley, AZ." (Source: SAACA)

Jim Williams: When Homesteaders Came To Oro Valley

From time to time, LOVE is featuring Oro Valley author Jim Williams and his book Claiming the Desert: Settlers, Homesteaders and Ranchers in Oro Valley, Arizona, 1865-1965. This is an excerpt from his book.
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Individuals from Tucson and other locales claimed homesteads in four townships that roughly correspond to the Town of Oro Valley today. These grantees were a group of hardy pioneers who braved many difficulties. 

Everyday life was challenging. Some of them prospered, but not all.

Homesteaders came to this area from a variety of locales. Some came to Tucson via the Southern Pacific Railroad. Train travel was preferred because the highways in Arizona and neighboring states were barely functional for interstate travel before the late 1940s.

Gene Magee, who owned a homestead in what became Oro Valley, remembered traveling three days by rail from Oklahoma to reach Tucson.

Most homesteaders already lived in Tucson for some years before applying for a homestead. After arriving in Tucson, homesteaders traveled by wagon or automobile to their claim. 

Buster Bailey, a resident from 1927 onward, remembered that the Oracle Road “was always rough,” consisting of unpaved highway with some gravel. Robert Wilson visited his father Lawrence Wilson’s homestead near Oracle Road in the Thirties and remembered a rough road of packed dirt. Orange Grove Road and La Cholla Boulevard were established by 1930, both county roads but in worse condition than Oracle Road (then called the Tucson-Florence Highway). Maps of the period 1900-1940 indicate many other unnamed and virtually unimproved roads in the area.

The difficult roads presented significant problems for homesteaders.

When the Jim Reidy homestead dwelling was under construction, he and several laborers finished work on the building for the day and started back to Tucson in his 1928 Chevrolet. A flash flood hit as they crossed the Cañada del Oro, and one worker was swept away. He was later found one-half mile downstream, clinging to a Palo Verde tree. The Chevy was destroyed by the flood. Betty Chester Dreyfuss, who lived in what is now Catalina State Park, recalled that her family was isolated when the Cañada del Oro flooded. For days, food and other supplies had to be brought in via a cable strung between two poles on opposite sides of the wash.
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"Claiming the Desert" is available at the Western National Parks Association and through Amazon.com.