Thursday, December 29, 2011

Beyond Tucson Update

We Need Your Help

Dear friends,

The Tucson Trails Tribute fund has been established by Gabe Zimmerman’s family to support the work of a broad coalition working together to pay tribute to the victims of the Jan 8 shooting tragedy. We feel it is important to provide the community an opportunity to come together on this first anniversary to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us and commit to a better future.

To that end, our coalition is planning a community–wide commemorative event called “BEYOND” to take place from sun up to sun down on Jan 7, 2012 and we would like to invite you to help us implement and publicize these activities.

The goal of BEYOND is to reach out and engage the entire community in and around the Tucson area, where the tragedy took place. Thanks to our broad coalition of partners, over 25 events are planned to take place across the region on January 7th to enable members of our community to get outdoors, be active, feel connected to one another and engage in activities that are healing to the mind, body and spirit. We hope you will join us at an event near you.

Our vision is that BEYOND will become the annual tribute event in our region to take place the first Saturday of every New Year that enables members of our community to connect with one another, get some fresh air and exercise, have fun and celebrate the strength, resilience and beauty of our community.

With your generosity we can make this event a reality. Funds donated will help support the coalition’s work year round and cover the costs associated with implementing this commemorative event. To make your tax deductible charitable contribution now, click here.

We hope you will join us in our effort and we look forward to seeing you outdoors on January 7, 2012. Don't forget to register to attend!

Sincerely,

Ross Zimmerman

Gabe's Dad
Tucson Trails Tribute/BEYOND Co-Founder

Michelle Crow
Tucson Trails Tribute/BEYOND Executive Director

Tucson Troop Support Update

Hello everyone and help us spread the word on this wonderful event, It’s for a great cause!

Please visit our website for more information on Mardi Gras, http://tucsontroopsupport.org/index.html

We would love it if you can attend, we also are looking for donations on raffle prizes, beads for the party and if you all know of anyone who has decorations for the hall that would be wonderful! Everyone is welcome and volunteers are always appreciated! Vendor tables are first come, first serve so please reserve your table now for only $20.00. Sponsors are greatly appreciated especially monetary donations to help offset the cost of the Mardi Gras! You can Mail your checks or raffle prizes/certificates to Tucson Troop Support, P.O. Box 26071, Tucson AZ 85726.

Thank you for your Support! This will benefit all local Active Duty Military Branches and their families and all local Veterans.



Strengthening and Supporting our Military


Thank you,

Clarissa Geborkoff

Tucson Troop Support
Executive VP

SR 86 Update

State Route 86 improvement work west of Robles Junction continues next week


The Arizona Department of Transportation will have intermittent lane closures on State Route 86 west of Robles Junction beginning Tuesday (Jan. 3) through Friday (Jan. 6) between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day. The work is part of the four-mile long road improvement project on State Route 86 between San Pedro and Viopuli Road (MP 137 and MP 141) on the Tohono O’odham Nation reservation.


Wednesday, December 28, 2011

USPS Update

Tucson would be the largest city to lose its processing and distribution center if the USPS proposal does go through.

Also, Tucson and Southern Arizona would have the biggest drive to get mail to Phoenix.

http://www.mediafire.com/?tx7t0c9t9wxbi6o,7nc27f4w0sa1fxu,12kdgsjm8ec9v9t,5ipi245jmxiiy9d

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Cherrybell Post Office Being Considered for Closure - Update

USPS Cherrybell Hearing Update - Business and non-profit users of bulk mail are invited to address the Postal Service at 4:00 p.m., with the general public invited starting at 6:00 p.m. The meeting is at the Leo Rich Theater, 260 S. Church.

Sun Tran Holiday Schedule - New Year's Weekend

The following details outline transit service during the holiday weekend.



Sun Tran Service

· Sun Tran Routes 1 through 99 will run on a regular Saturday schedule on New Year’s Eve, Saturday, December 31, 2011.

· Routes 1 through 99 will run on a Sunday schedule on Sunday, January 1 and Monday, January 2, 2012, in observance of the New Year’s holiday.

· There will be no Sun Express service Monday, January 2. Express service resumes Tuesday, January 3.

· Sun Tran’s Customer Service Center will be closed New Year’s Day, but will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 30 and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 31 and Monday, January 2.

· The Administrative Offices and the Lost & Found Department, located at 4220 South Park Avenue, will be closed Monday, January 2. The Administrative Offices will re-open on Tuesday, January 3, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lost & Found will also re-open Tuesday, January 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.


Sun Van Service

· Sun Van service will mirror the service provided by Sun Tran.

· Sun Van’s Customer Service Center will be open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Sun Shuttle’s Holiday Weekend Service:

· Sun Shuttle, which provides transit service in outlying communities, will provide regular service on Friday, December 30, Saturday, December 31 and Monday, January 2. Sun Shuttle routes do not run on Sundays.



Passengers are advised to consult Sun Tran’s Ride Guide, visit www.suntran.com, or call Sun Tran’s Customer Service Center at (520) 792-9222 (for persons with hearing and speech impairments, call TDD: 520-628-1565) for specific route times and bus information.

LULAC Youth Leadership Conference Update

Dear Educators, Friends, and Advocates:

You are cordially invited to attend our annual LULAC Youth Leadership
Conferece Educator's Breakfast on Tuesday, January 10th. A free breakfast
courtesy of Rigo's Restaurant and entertainment will be provided as well as
a presentation highlighting the activities of this year's *23rd Annual
LULAC Youth Leadership Conference * themed
"Education is the Key to Success: Striving for Wellness & Balance". This
year we will be providing new and exciting opportunities for students as
LULAC has partnered with the Metropolitan Education Commission to bring
their *Key to Employement for the 21st Century Symposium* to Pima Community
College the same day!

*Date: Tuesday, January 10th, 2012*
*Time: 7:30 AM - Breakfast, 8:00 AM - Presentation
Location: Pima Community College - West Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Rd.
*
If you plan to attend, please *RSVP* to this email and feel free to share
this email with High School and Middle School Administrators, Teachers and
District Staff. *A save-the-date postcard has been attached*.

We look forward to seeing you!

Sincerely,
--
Javier Herrera, Chair
LULAC Youth Leadership Conference
(520) 245-8124
www.sazlulacylc.org

Cherrybell Post Office Being Considered for Closure

On Wednesday, December 28, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will be holding a public hearing in Tucson on whether to close Tucson mail sorting facility and moving that service to the Phoenix facility.

This hearing will be held at the Leo Rich Theater, 260 South Church, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

At the December 28 meeting, the public will have the opportunity at this meeting to speak to the USPS management in attendance and give their feedback on the proposed shut-down of the Tucson mail sorting facility and moving that service to the Phoenix facility. 

USPS is also inviting their largest local business customers to the meeting so they can hear about the plan and its possible effects on their mailings.

The public may send their comments on this to the USPS.  Comments will be accepted and postmarked by January 12, 2012.  Written comments may be sent to: Management, Consumer and Industry Contact, Arizona District, P.O. Box, 21628, Phoenix, Arizona 85036-1628.

Happy Holidays from President Obama and the First Family

Happy Holidays from the Obama Family

President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama recorded a special video to
wish the American people a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/holidays?utm_source=email141&utm_medium=image&utm_campaign=holidays

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Transit Schedule - Dec. 24-26

Transit schedule for December 24 - 26

Shuttle for Salvation Army Christmas Dinner Provided

TUCSON, Ariz. – The following details outline transit service during the holiday weekend.

COOPERATION BETWEEN CITY AND OCCUPY TUCSON LEADS TO PEACEFUL PARK CLEAN-UP

Due to an increasing number of public safety concerns at Veinte de
Agosto Park, Tucson City Manager Richard Miranda directed Tucson Police
personnel to deploy to the park yesterday evening to clear the Occupy
Tucson encampment. Occupy Tucson protesters have been camping in the
park since October, during which time the City has been enforcing the
10:30 p.m. curfew at the park by issuing citations to those in violation
and then releasing them.

Streetcar Update

Tucson Modern Streetcar Project Update

Here’s the latest information on the Tucson Modern Streetcar project, sent to organizations and individuals who have subscribed to our distribution list.Line Segment Bid Update

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

PIMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE WEST CAMPUS TENNIS COURTS CLOSED FOR IMPROVEMENTS

The Pima Community College (PCC) West Campus Athletic Department has
notified the City of Tucson that all eight tennis courts at the West
Campus facility will be closed from December 29, 2011 through January 6,
2012 to allow works crews to resurface the courts prior to the start of
the 2012 men’s and women’s tennis season in early February.
 
PCC officials planned to systematically close two courts at a time
leaving six other courts open for public use, but inclement weather over
the past month has forced officials to change their plans.
 
The City of Tucson has an inter-governmental agreement (IGA) with PCC
for several facilities making them available for public use. The West
Campus tennis courts are open to the public as a park outside of the
time PCC uses the courts for classes, team practices and meets. The City
of Tucson maintains the nets and lights as part of the IGA.

Council Goes On Record Opposing Proposed Post Office Closure

By a 6 to 0 vote, Tucson's Mayor and Council went on record to oppose the proposed closure of the City's Main Post Office Processing and Distribution Center.

This item was placed on the Council agenda by Councilmember Richard Fimbres.  He expressed his appreciation to the Mayor and fellow Councilmembers for realizing the importance of this and how it could impact Tucson's economy.

Arnold Elias, retired Tucson Postmaster and Connie Sadler-Nelson with the local Postalworkers Union were present to speak about the impact this closure would have on Tucson.

Councilmember Fimbres also urged people to attend the public hearing or to write to get their comments in by January 12.


The meeting will take place at the Leo Rich Theater, which is located in the TCC Complex, and will begin at 6 p.m. At this meeting, the public will have the opportunity at this meeting to speak to the USPS management in attendance and give their feedback.  USPS is also inviting their largest local business customers to the meeting so they can hear about the plan and its possible effects on their mailings.

The public may send their comments on this to the USPS.  Comments will be accepted and postmarked by January 12, 2012.  Written comments may be sent to: Management, Consumer and Industry Contact, Arizona District, P.O. Box, 21628, Phoenix, Arizona 85036-1628.

Pima County Library Helps Non-Profits

My name is Kassy Rodeheaver, and I’m emailing you today to tell you about free services from the Pima County Public Library that you can offer to your constituents who are involved with nonprofits.


ADOT: No state highway construction closures over Christmas and New Year’s weekends

Drivers urged to use caution, be prepared for existing work zones


PHOENIX – Drivers will not face any construction-related closures along state highways and Phoenix area freeways over the Christmas and New Year’s weekends, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.


CITY SERVICES INFORMATION: FURLOUGH/HOLIDAY CLOSURES - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 AND MONDAY, DECEMBER 26 CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY

On Friday, December 23, 2011, city offices, departments, and Council offices will be closed for a furlough day, except as noted below. On Monday, December 26, 2011, all City offices will be closed to observe the Christmas holiday, expect for Tucson City Golf courses.

9-1-1 and fire/medical emergency dispatch services will be maintained on Friday. Other designated City operations and services will continue on Friday by alternating furlough hours for employees. The Planning and Development Services Department will be open for business on Friday; however, there will be no cashier services available. PDSD will closed on Monday.

The Tucson Convention Center (TCC) ticket offices will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, but will be closed on Monday. The Tucson Department of Transportation will have standby crews available on Friday and Monday to respond to emergency situations as needed.

Tucson Parks and Recreation administrative offices and recreation centers will be closed both days; however, the Reid Park Zoo will be open for regular zoo hours on Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a final night of Zoo Lights from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Zoo will close on Sunday, Christmas Day and reopen for regular hours on Monday, December 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. http://www.tucsonzoo.org. The Tucson City Golf courses will operate on regular hours though the weekend with Golf Administration being closed both Friday and Monday. http://www.tucsoncitygolf.com

Environmental Services trash and recycling collection will have regular service on Friday. The Los Reales Landfill and the Household Hazardous Waste Facility will remain open on Friday. The Christmas holiday will be observed on Monday, and residential trash and recycling will not be collected on Monday. City of Tucson residential and commercial customers will have their trash and recycling service delayed by one day. Holiday collection schedules are available online at www.tucsonaz.gov/esd. The Los Reales Landfill will be open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday.

Tucson City Court will be closed on Friday. Its website at www.tucsonaz.gov/courts can be accessed for information including verifying a court date and making a payment online.

Tucson Water offices will be open on Friday. However, cashier stations will be closed on Monday. Cash payments will not be accepted on this day. Customers may pay by check or credit card by calling Customer Service at (520) 791-3242 and pressing option 1, or going online to www.tucsonaz.gov/water/online-account. An account number is required for these options.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Bruker Nano Stays in Tucson

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Kids, Cops and Christmas Update from TPOA

The Tucson Police Officers Association is pleased with the success this year of its annual Kids and Cops Christmas Shopping Event.

The event took place on December 17, 2011 at the Target Store located at 4040 N. Oracle. Approximately 300 children were given the opportunity to shop with close to 100 Police Department volunteer officers. Each child was given a 100 dollar credit to spend in the store. As they did last year, the Tucson Police Officers Association also collected food for the Community Food Bank.

The Tucson Police Officers Association would like to greatly thank Target Stores Inc, volunteers from the Tucson Head Start Program, Keeling Elementary for use of their gym, and Trattoria Pina for catering the luncheon that followed the event as well as our other sponsors (Cyracom, Vantage West Credit Union, Vetrano Investments and Loew’s Ventana Canyon).

The Tucson Police Officers Association would like to thank all of the City Officials that came and helped with the Kids and Cops Christmas Event. As always, the Tucson Police Officers Association is committed to fostering events like these that strengthen community partnerships.

Tucson Means Business Forum

Monday, December 19, 2011

TUCSON’S MAIL SORTING POST OFFICE FACILITY UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR CLOSURE BY USPS; HEARING SET FOR DECEMBER 28

Tucson - On Wednesday, December 28, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will be holding a public hearing in Tucson on whether to close Tucson mail sorting facility and moving that service to the Phoenix facility.

This hearing will be held at the Leo Rich Theater, 260 South Church, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Tucson’s Processing and Distribution Center, located at 1600 South Cherrybell Stravenue is one of many facilities being studied for possible closure under the direction of the current U.S. Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe. 

Currently, more than 1,000,000 pieces of mail a year is being processed by the Cherrybell Post Office.

Up to 400 jobs are in possible jeopardy with this potential closure of this facility by the USPS.

“This would be a substantial setback to the effort to rebuild Tucson’s economy,” said Councilmember Richard Fimbres. “In addition, this would also hurt businesses who rely on the distribution center, the elderly who may pay bills by mail or wait for their Social Security checks and medication,” he added.

Fimbres went on to say that, “If Tucson loses the Processing and Distribution Center, the effort to recruit companies to the area would be severely hampered, since the city would be one of the largest without a Distribution Center.” Tucson is the 33rd largest city in the United States, according to the Census Bureau.

“Government functions involving mailing items, people’s water bill, and electric bills and voting by mail would be impacted by this potential closure,” Fimbres said. “Small, local businesses that rely on mail order service could close if Tucson’s distribution center is moved to Phoenix.”

The proposed closure is only one item being considered by the USPS. The elimination of overnight service in the Tucson metro area as well as all of the 856 zip code areas is also on the table.

“This is not just a Tucson issue, it will affect all of Southern Arizona, its citizens, businesses and their governments,” Fimbres stated. “This would end overnight service as well as cause delays for the mail for Tucson and the Southern Arizona region.”

Councilmember Fimbres will be bringing this item for discussion by the Tucson Mayor and Council, at their meeting, Tuesday, December 20, during the Study Session, which is scheduled to start at 2:00 pm. Former Tucson Postmasters, Alvaro Alvarez and Arnold Elias will be present, as well Local 255 of the American Postal Workers Union.

At the December 28 meeting, The public will have the opportunity at this meeting to speak to the USPS management in attendance and give their feedback on the proposed shut-down of the Tucson mail sorting facility and moving that service to the Phoenix facility. 

USPS is also inviting their largest local business customers to the meeting so they can hear about the plan and its possible effects on their mailings.

The public may send their comments on this to the USPS. Comments will be accepted and postmarked by January 12, 2012. Written comments may be sent to: Management, Consumer and Industry Contact, Arizona District, P.O. Box, 21628, Phoenix, Arizona 85036-1628.

ES Update

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S DAY HOLIDAY
TRASH AND RECYCLING SCHEDULE

The Christmas holiday will be observed on Monday, December 26, 2011 and the New Year’s Day holiday will be observed on Monday, January 2, 2012.  Residential trash and recycling will not be collected on Monday of the holiday weeks. City of Tucson residential and commercial customers will have their trash and recycling service delayed by one day. Holiday collection schedules are available online at www.tucsonaz.gov/esd

The Los Reales Landfill will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on December 26, 2011 and January 2, 2012. For landfill information call 791-5151.

City offices will be closed on Monday, December 26, 2011 and January 2, 2012, however, customers may leave a message for City of Tucson Environmental Services at 791-3171 or submit a service request and they will be contacted no later than the next business day. Customer service representatives will be available on Saturday, December 31, 2011 and January 7, 2012 from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Friday, December 16, 2011

Mission Manor Sports Lighting

The Tucson Parks and Recreation Department is in the process of replacing sports lighting at Mission Manor Park.  Staff wanted you to know that the new lamps need to be run for 24 hours before they hit their designed, stable light levels.  Consequently you may notice or hear from constituents that the sports lighting at Mission Manor field 5 is being left on during the day.  Please note the lamps will be 'burned in' throughout the day for the next 3 days.  This is a required and typical step in building new sports lighting systems.

LUZ Posada En El Barrio








Happy Holidays From Access Tucson

Access Tucson Community Media is dedicated to protecting and supporting freedom of speech. Now, more than ever, it is evident that free speech is often far from free. We are proud that our Access Tucson Community Media members, supporters, Board of Directors and staff have faced these challenges head on--creating opportunities while building a sustainable, viable community resource.


Thursday, December 15, 2011

Vote By Mail A Success

The recently held City of Tucson elections for Mayor and the City Council seats for Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 4, showed an increased turnout in the number of Tucson voters, as well as a cost savings to taxpayers.

In a report dated December 2 to Mayor and Council, from the City Clerk’s Office, this election saved $600,000. According to the City Clerk report, the election was budgeted for $2.45 million and the final numbers, according to Roger Randolph, the City Clerk, will have the election come in at $1.85 million. According to the report, these savings were realized through the elimination of traditional polling place equipment, vehicle and polling place rentals, reduction in printing costs for hybrid elections (poll worker manual, signature rosters and early ballot postcards), and the reduction of poll workers.

"When the Mayor and Council were discussing a proposal to change the hybrid system, one of the points my office brought up was to have more people participate in the process by casting their votes," Councilmember Richard Fimbres said. "In addition, the potential question of reducing costs, through less poll workers, renting of voting equipment and locations, were other factors on why this proposal was brought forward. The turnout and this report showed that the vote-by-mail process was successful,” Fimbres went on to say.

The primary election, held August 31, showed that 44,507 ballots were cast for candidates listed on the ballot for Mayor and for the Council seats for Wards 1, 2 and 4 respectively. This was the most votes cast in a primary election since 1999, when 39,365 ballots were cast with contested primary races for both major political parties.

For the general election, held November 8, 85,340 people cast ballots. In 2009, 74,168 people voted; in the last contested Mayor election prior to this year’s, in 2003, 77,857 people voted; and in 1999, 86,180 people voted. In the 1999 election, there was a contested Mayoral election, as well as a controversial water initiative on the ballot.

"This election showed that an all vote-by-mail process is a good start to get more people active, involved and casting their votes, as well as well as the cost savings, which speaks for this system to continue to be used for future City elections," Fimbres added.

Gateway to Tucson



During the December 13, Mayor and Council, Councilmember Richard Fimbres had placed the "Gateway to Tucson" Agenda Item for discussion by the Mayor and Council.  This was not reported in the Arizona Daily Star.

Saying visitors to Tucson get an immediate bad impression, in part because of scraggly medians, a collection of businesses aims to raise private dollars to make a better first impression. With about a half-dozen sponsoring entities signed on, the Tucson Metro Chamber is accepting private donations to spruce up landscaping in medians by Tucson International Airport.

The chamber estimates the six medians directly leading from the airport on Tucson Boulevard to Valencia Road would cost about $50,000 each to clear and grade, update irrigation lines, and plant new trees and shrubs.

"The recurring theme I hear from business people and citizens is that our gateway from the airport is just horrible," said Richard Underwood, the owner of AAA Landscape, who has agreed to do the project at cost. Calling the gateway "embarrassing," he added there's a running joke that companies fly recruits in after dark so they won't see the medians. Underwood said the designs are dated, the plants shabby and the decomposed granite faded. He's envisioning a lush desert environment with big ironwood trees, saguaros, lighting and possibly art. "You've got only one chance to make a first impression," he said.

Councilmember Fimbres thanked Underwood and AAA Landscaping, Bill Holmes of the Tucson Chamber of Commerce, Fletcher McCusker of Providence Corporation, and the other businesses who are helping with this private-public process.  He added that this was a great first step to help with some of the medians along this route and others, during these tough, economic times.

The City of Tucson, Tucson Clean and Beautiful, as well the City Department of Transportation have been assisting the Chamber in this effort.

Fimbres also said that he had been in contact with Sunnyside Unified School District, Pima County, and Los Artes to help in the effort.

Pima Federal Credit Union has also expressed interest in this effort.

For more information about this project, call the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, 792-1212 or go online to http://www.tucsonchamber.org/.

If a business or individuals want to donate, make checks payable to: Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, 465 W. St. Mary's, Tucson, AZ 85701.  Put in the note: First Impressions Project.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Bruker Nano Stays in Tucson

Bruker Nano Surfaces Division had a celebration and ribbon cutting, (on Dec. 6) of their new facilities at 3400 E. Britannia in Ward 5. Present for this event was Mark R. Munch, Ph.D., President of the Bruker Nano Surfaces Division, as well as Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and Ward 5 Councilmember, Richard Fimbres. This was the first ribbon cutting for Tucson’s new Mayor.

Bruker Nano needed to expand their facilities and after considering offers from Oro Valley and Santa Barbara, California, they chose to stay in Tucson. In 2011, Bruker Nano has expanded its workforce from 70 to 90. Most of the employees are local individuals, many had attended and graduated from the University of Arizona (U of A) optical sciences programs.

"As a leading optical metrology company, having the mayor and councilman here for our new building dedication ratifies our commitment to keeping our facility in the Optical Valley. We are pleased to continue to add local jobs and be a part of Tucson's growing high-tech industrial sector."

"I congratulate Bruker Nano on their success and their great new facility. Choosing to stay and grow a business here in Tucson is a smart decision for any high tech company to make. The University of Arizona means we have access to top-level talent, plus we have the kind of lifestyle that makes graduates want to stay here,” Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild said.

“Tucson’s high-tech economy has been growing, thanks to the work of many companies, such as Bruker Nano, as well as the University of Arizona, the companies at the U of A Tech Park and soon, the BioPark located in Ward 5,” Councilmember Richard Fimbres commented. “Thanks to the recent work by the Mayor and Council, the actions taken by Development Services and other city departments, this ribbon cutting and opening is another example that Tucson means business,” Fimbres added. “I want to thank Bruker Nano for their commitment to Tucson, with their work and high paying jobs, and their partnership with Tucson and the University of Arizona.”

Bruker’s Nano Surfaces Division provides the world’s most complete offering of atomic force microscopes (AFMs), stylus profilers and fast, 3D non-contact optical microscopes to the research and industrial communities.

These enable applications in universities, research facilities and scientific centers around the world in addition to production environments for precision machining, medical device manufacturing, solar cell production and automotive and aerospace industries.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

ADOT Update

The following are updates from the Arizona Department of Transportation on two road projects ongoing on our freeways.

Ward 5 Open House

2011 Holiday Open House

One Can A Week Update

http://onecanaweek.blogspot.com/2011/12/152nd-week-update-miles-neighborhood.html

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

On Sunday, December 18, Dancing in the Streets Arizona (DITSAZ) will present a holiday favorite with a local twist as students, parents and guest artists perform “El Cascanueses,” an adaptation of the ever-popular Nutcracker ballet. Performance is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at the Historic Fox Theater 17 West Congress Street.

2011 Press Release Nutcracker-Red

Sun Tran Update

FREE BUS TRAINING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES AND SENIORS

Sun Tran’s Accessible Rider Training Program


Tucson, Ariz. – Sun Tran is offering free ridership training, designed to help people gain greater independence by learning how to ride the bus. The Sun Tran Accessible Rider Training (START) program helps seniors and individuals with disabilities learn how to utilize Sun Tran services. The next session will be held Friday, December 9, 2011, at Freedom Park Center, 5000 E. 29th Street, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Ward 5 Nov-Dec. Newsletter

Nov-Dec 2011 Newsletter

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Tucson Means Business Forum A Success

Dear Friends:

More than 80 people were in attendance for the Ward 5 Tucson Means Business Forum, held November 30, at the Fred G. Acosta Job Corps Center.

Tucson Means Business Forum A Success


Tucson Means Business Forum


More than 80 people were in attendance for the Ward 5 Tucson Means Business Forum, held November 30, at the Fred G. Acosta Job Corps Center.


This forum provided opportunities to current business owners who want to do business with the City of Tucson and those aspiring owners who want to start their business in the Old Pueblo.


CITY WILL ACCEPT APPLICATIONS FOR SECTION 8 HOUSING; LOTTERY BASED SYSTEM GIVES APPLICANTS EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Families, couples and individuals may now apply for the opportunity to have safe, decent and affordable housing through the City of Tucson/Pima County Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program.

The Section 8 Waiting List will open using a lottery system to ensure that everyone who submits an application within the appropriate timeframes will have an equal opportunity for placement on the list. This eliminates the need for applicants to wait in long lines. The application period runs from Tuesday, December 13, 2011, through Thursday, December 15, 2011.  Once all applications are received, a waiting list number will be assigned to each application using the lottery-based system.

Applications will be available online at http://web2.transview.org/section8 and must be completed and submitted between Tuesday, December 13, 2011 and Thursday, December 15, 2011.

Completed applications that are sent by mail must be postmarked no later than Thursday, December 15, 2011. Applications will also be available beginning Tuesday, December 13, 2011, at the locations indicated below:

Income limits apply, based on household size. Applicants are screened for criminal background history. For more information, call the Section 8 Office at 520-791-4739.

Upcoming League Training (liquor License info.)

*Upcoming Training and Events*

*Of Interest to Cities and Towns*

* *

*League Training*

** **

*Thursday, December 8*

** **

** **

*How Cities and Towns Can Be More Effective in Appearing Before the Liquor
Board*

High winds, blowing dust possible Thursday

PHOENIX — The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Thursday (Dec. 1) that could impact drivers traveling in southwest Arizona.


Strong sustained northern winds from 25 to 35 mph, including wind gusts up to 40 mph, are predicted to reach Yuma and La Paz counties.


The Arizona Department of Transportation urges motorists traveling on Interstate 10, Interstate 8 and US 95/State Route 95 to use extra caution due to possible difficult driving conditions as strong winds over desert areas can result in sudden periods of limited or zero visibility due to blowing dust.


Motorists play in important role in safety when operating their vehicles during a dust storm. ADOT and the Department of Public Safety recommend the following driving tips when encountering a low visibility dust storm.


▪ Check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.

▪ Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.

▪ Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and not near where any vehicles may travel.

▪ Turn off all vehicle lights.

▪ Set your emergency brake and take the foot off the brake.

▪ Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts intact and wait for the storm to pass.


ADOT, along with DPS, will continue to work as a public safety team to support Arizona’s highways and drivers and will closely monitor conditions on the highways while maintaining driver safety.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Roadwork Update

Due to changing weather conditions, the City of Tucson Department of Transportation will temporarily suspend its in-house chip and fog sealing programs. The residential street paving program began in early October 2011 and consisted of crack sealing, pothole filling, chip sealing and fog sealing five different neighborhoods.

Chip sealing is greatly affected by the weather and can only be performed during certain temperatures. Chip sealing should be applied when the pavement temperature is at least 70 degrees and the air temperature is 50 degrees and rising. Transportation Director Jim Glock stated that the residential street paving program will commence next spring when weather conditions are optimal.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Tucson Troop Support Update

Flyer for Registration for Holiday Party Dec 11th 2011

Strengthening Border Ties

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Ward 5 Hosting Business Forum - Nov. 30

Tucson Means Business Ward 5

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Vote By Mail Increased Turnout

For the general election, 85,340 people cast ballots. In 2009, 74,168 people voted; in 2003, 77,857 people voted; and in 1999, 86,180 people voted.  In the 1999 election, in addition to the four political contests, Tucson voters considered an initiative dealing with CAP water.


VOTE BY MAIL – WARD BREAKDOWN

2009 – Hybrid (Polling and PEVL)
2011 – Vote by mail

Ballots Cast 2009 2011 Increased %

Ward 1 9272 11667 2495        26.9%

Ward 2 20211 22025 1814 8.9%

Ward 3 8908 10448 1540 17.2%

Ward 4 15546 18039 2493 16.0%

Ward 5 5853 7884 2031 34.7%

Ward 6 14378 15294 916 6.4%

Tucson Means Business Forum - Nov. 30

Tucson Means Business Ward 5

Mayor Walkup

Yesterday was Bob Walkup's last formal meeting as Tucson's Mayor. For these past two years, I have had the opportunity to work with Bob on many projects as the Ward 5 Councilmember for my Ward and for our City. His door to his office had always been open and I appreciated his advice, his thoughts and his friendship.

Now, Bob and Beth will be hitting the road in that VW Van he has purchased andwill travel the country when he leaves office Dec. 5. I will miss him as our Mayor, as well as Beth.

He may being leaving office but he won't be leaving Tucson. I look forward to working with him on other projects involving the Tucson-Mexico Task Force, as well as the Global Economic Development District, just to name two.

As was sung last night, "Happy Trails to You" Bob and Beth.

Furlough Day - Friday

CITY SERVICES INFORMATION:
HOLIDAY / FURLOUGH DAY CLOSURES -
THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY AND FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25

With the exception of Tucson City Golf courses, City Hall and City business offices, including all Council offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2011 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Friday, November 18, 2011

22nd St. Construction Update

Two weeks ago Sundt Construction poured concrete at our jobsite at 3434 E.
22nd early in the morning.  This generated complaints from two neighbors
about the unwelcome noise in the early morning hours.  Following that
instance, we directed Sundt to pass out fliers at the co-op housing units
directly behind the county property before any future early morning work
that would be temporarily disruptive.  You will see below that another
early morning concrete pour is planned for tomorrow morning and on Monday
morning.  Sundt made notifications to the neighbors as we had agreed.  I’m
sending this notice to your offices in case you receive complaints.

Sun Tran Thanksgiving Schedule

SUN TRAN BUSES FOLLOW A SUNDAY SCHEDULE ON THANKSGIVING

No Sun Shuttle Service on Thanksgiving

TUCSON, Ariz. - Sun Tran buses will operate on a Sunday schedule and Sun Shuttle routes will not be in operation on Thursday, November 24, in observance of Thanksgiving Day.

 

Thursday, November 24, 2011

·         Sun Tran Express Routes will not be in operation.

·         On Thanksgiving, the Customer Service Center will be open 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. to assist passengers with trip planning needs. 

  • Sun Tran’s Administrative Offices and Lost and Found, located at 4220 S. Park Avenue, will be closed on Thursday, November 24.

Friday, November 25, 2011

·         Sun Tran, Sun Express and Sun Shuttle resume regular schedules.

·         The Customer Service Center will return to regular weekday hours of 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

  • The Administrative Offices will re-open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., while Lost and Found will be open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Passengers are advised to consult Sun Tran’s Ride Guide, visit www.suntran.com, or call Sun Tran’s Customer Service Center at (520) 792-9222 (for persons with hearing and speech impairments, call TDD: 520-628-1565) for specific route times and bus information.   

THANKSGIVING DAY HOLIDAY TRASH & RECYCLING COLLECTION SERVICE CHANGES

The Thanksgiving Day holiday will be observed on Thursday, November 24, 2011.  Residential and commercial trash and recycling will not be collected on Thursday. All City of Tucson residential customers with regular Thursday or Friday service will have their trash and recycling service collection delayed by one day. Holiday collection schedules are available online at www.tucsonaz.gov/esd

The Los Reales Landfill and the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility will be closed.

City offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2011, however, customers may leave a message for Environmental Services Customer Service at 791-3171 or submit a service request at www.tucsonaz.gov/esd and they will be contacted no later than the next business day. Customer Service will be available on Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. of the holiday week.

Blood Drive Announced

The American Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled for Thursday, December 8, 2011 from 8:30 am - 1:30 pm at City Hall.  The bus will be located on the south side of City Hall with registration in the Retirement office located on the first floor.

The Red Cross has seen declining numbers in donors and many no-shows for blood donations from the City.  I would like to remind everyone that donating blood is necessary for our community.  Our hospitals need over 300 pints of blood per day to meet the need of their patients.  As a reminder, the City has an A.D. regarding allowing time off for blood donations.  http://intranet/docs/ad/2-01-7i.pdf

To schedule your appointment today please call 520-230-7295.  If you are not able to keep your appointment please call to cancel your appointment so someone else can fill that time slot.

What would your school do with a $15,000 award from Bookmans Challenge?

Tell Bookmans About the Great Things at Your School!
Bookmans School Challenge 2011
What makes your school unique?
How would $15,000 benefit your school?
Grand Prize: $15,000 to one school
Two Additional Prizes: $3,000 each
Deadline: November 30, 2011

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Eva Carrillo Dong Honored

Congratulations to Eva Dong, besides being a Governing Board member for Sunnyside School District, she also provides oversight for the Juvenile CAPE Program at the Juvenile Courts Center and the Sheriff’s Dept. Corrections Bureau’s Juvenile unit.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE WORK ON INTERSTATE 19 SOUTH OF SAHUARITA ROAD BEGINS

Crews continue to work on improvements as part of a maintenance project to extend the longevity of three bridges and drainage along Interstate 19. The Arizona Department of Transportation is scheduling the following work :

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE WORK ON INTERSTATE 19 SOUTH OF SAHUARITA ROAD BEGINS

Crews continue to work on improvements as part of a maintenance project to extend the longevity of three bridges and drainage along Interstate 19. The Arizona Department of Transportation is scheduling the following work beginning tomorrow:
 
 
 
Wednesday (Nov. 16)
 
From 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., the right lane of northbound I-19 south of Exit 75 -Helmet Peak Sahuarita Road (at Milepost 45 - Quartz Wash Bridge) will be closed.
 
 
Thursday (Nov.17)
 
From 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., the right lane of southbound I-19 south of Exit 75 -Helmet Peak Sahuarita Road (Milepost 45 - Quartz Wash Bridge) will be closed.
From approximately 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the right lane of northbound I-19 south of Exit 75 -Helmet Peak Sahuarita Road (at Milepost 45 - Quartz Wash Bridge) will be closed. 
 
 
The speed limit will be reduced to 45 miles per hour in the construction zone and drivers can anticipate delays of up to ten minutes during peak hours.
 
 
 
The $596,000 improvement project will reinforce the three bridges by pouring concrete beneath the structures. Work will occur on two bridges located near Arivaca Road: Old Junction Wash Bridge at milepost 30.7 and Tinaja Bridge at milepost 31, plus Quartz Wash Bridge near El Toro Road at milepost 45.1.  Additionally a new outlet will be added to a drainage pipe on northbound I-19 near Rock Corral Road at milepost 19.3 to assist with drainage. The project is expected to be completed by December 2011. 
 
 
 
The construction schedule is subject to change due to a variety of reasons, including weather, material availability and mechanical difficulties. ADOT advises drivers to proceed through or near work zones with caution, slow down, and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Most Votes Cast In Tucson Election Since 1999; Vote By Mail “A Good Start”


TUCSON - The recently held City of Tucson elections for Mayor and the City Council seats for Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 4, showed an increased turnout in the number of Tucson voters.

These elections were the first to use an all-mail ballot system, a proposal brought forward by Ward 5 Councilmember Richard Fimbres.

“When the Mayor and Council were discussing a proposal to change the hybrid system (voting by mail and polling place) of casting ballots in a city election to an all-mail ballot process, one of the points my office brought up was to have more people participate in the process by casting their votes,” Councilmember Richard Fimbres said. 

“In addition, the potential question of reducing costs, through less poll workers, renting of voting equipment and locations, were other factors on why this proposal was brought forward,” Fimbres added.

The primary election, held August 31, showed that 44,507 ballots were cast for candidates listed on the ballot for Mayor and for the Council seats for Wards 1, 2 and 4 respectively.  This was the most votes cast in a primary election since 1999, when 39,365 ballots were cast with contested primary races for both major political parties.

For the general election, 85,340 people cast ballots. In 2009, 74,168 people voted; in 2003, 77,857 people voted; and in 1999, 86,180 people voted.  In the 1999 election, in addition to the four political contests, Tucson voters considered an initiative dealing with CAP water.

"This election showed that an all vote-by-mail process is a good start to get more people active, involved and casting their votes for City of Tucson elections," Councilmember Richard Fimbres said.  "The increase in the numbers of ballots cast speak for this system to continue to be used for future City elections."

Tucson Means Business Forum - Nov. 30

 The Tucson Means Business Forum, will take place Wednesday, November 30, 6 to 8 pm, at the Fred G. Acosta Job Corp Center, 901 S. Campbell.  This event is sponsored by the City of Tucson, Ward 5 Council Office and Councilmember Richard Fimbres.

This is free to all current and aspiring business owners who want to do business with the City of Tucson or in the City of Tucson.  In addition, access to business capital and employer services will be a forum topic, with information from the Small Business Administration, Microbusiness Advancement Center, Business Development Finance Corporation and Pima County One Stop.

For more information and to RSVP, call the Ward 5 Council Office, 791-4231 or Email to Ward5@tucsonaz.gov.

Monday, November 14, 2011

I-19 Update

Ramp maintenance work on Interstate 19 in southern Arizona next week

The Arizona Department of Transportation will be working to seal cracks in the pavement of the ramps along Interstate 19 .

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

November 11 - Veterans Day

Dear Friends:

This is a very special week for us because we are celebrating Veteran's Day this Friday, and I am proud to say I am a 28 year veteran of the active Army, Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves.

We celebrate Veterans Day so we can never forget the price that has been paid by our Women and Men in the Military for the Freedom we have today.

For more than two hundred years, men and women of faith and courage have laid down their lives to secure freedom for this country.  Blood was shed-- and continues to be shed-- so that Americans no matter what color they are can enjoy liberty, democracy, and freedom without fear of reprisal. "Remember Freedom isn't Free, You have to Pay a Price and Sacrifice for our Liberty."

To our Women and Men serving in our Armed Forces lets us say a prayer for their safety:

"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands, Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. We ask this in the name of our Lord and Savior, Amen"

Thank You and please let a Veteran or a Active Duty Military person know that you appreciate the sacrifices they have made for us so we can enjoy our freedom.

God Bless.

Richard Fimbres
U.S. Army Vietnam Era Veteran

American Adds An Addition LAX Flight

American Eagle, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, plans to add a fourth daily roundtrip flight between Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on February 9, 2012 . The airline is now taking reservations for the additional service.



Veteran's Day Parade

Starts at 10 AM - More information here.

Election Day is Today

Today is Election Day. If you have not already done so, go VOTE!
Please remember to sign and date the affidavit portion of your ballot envelope.
Political-CampaignAll vote-by-mail ballots must be in the possession of the City Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order for your ballot to be counted.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Rothschild for Mayor, Romero, Cunningham and Scott for Tucson City Council, Daniel Hernandez for SUSD, Yes for SUSD Bonds

Dear Friends:

I just wanted to drop you a note on why I am voting for Jonathan Rothschild for Mayor, Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham and Shirley Scott for the Tucson City Council.  I am also writing to you to express my support for Daniel Hernandez for the Sunnyside School District Board and for the bond proposals on Sunnyside’s ballot too.

White House Latino Update

¡Buenas Tardes!

The President’s efforts to help put Americans back to work and strengthen the economy took him to Colorado and Nevada this past week where he delivered a strong message, that “we can’t wait” for Congress to act as Republicans continue to stand in the way of the American Jobs Act. The President highlighted executive actions his Administration is taking without help from Republicans in Congress, making it clear that our problems are too serious, the stakes are too high, and that the issues facing Americans require serious bipartisan solutions.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Ward 5 October Newsletter

Oct 2011 Newsletter

Ward 5 Newsletter - October (Text)

YOUR VOICE, YOUR VOTE

All registered voters in the City of Tucson have received their ballot from the City Clerk’s Office for the 2011 City of Tucson general election on November 8. On this ballot are the candidates for the respective political parties, running for the posts of Mayor, and for the Council seats in Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 4. This is a citywide election, the voters across the City of Tucson can cast their ballots for these four political offices up for consideration this year. Earlier this year, my office brought forward a proposal to have the 2011 Tucson elections conducted through an all-mail ballot. This was done to increase participation while reducing costs. For previous elections, the City Clerk had to run two elections simultaneously, a mail in/early voting ballot election, as well as having polling places – resulting in an increased cost to the taxpayers.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

WARD 5 WINS GRANT FOR CAR BOOSTER SEATS AND BIKE HELMETS

During the October 25, Mayor and Council meeting, an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Tucson and the Tohono O’odham Nation was approved, for a grant of more than $30,000 for a car booster seat and bike helmet initiative.

This grant proposal selected by the Nation and approved by the Mayor and Council, was researched and submitted by Ward 5 Councilmember Richard Fimbres office.

“I want to thank the Tohono O’odham Nation on this grant,” Councilmember Richard Fimbres said. “This will really assist the City of Tucson and its children during these hard, economic times.

Melinda Jacobs and John Ferra, aides to Councilmember Richard Fimbres, had put the grant proposal together.

“Thanks to the efforts of Melinda Jacobs and John Ferra,” Councilmember Richard Fimbres added, “Families in our community who are most in need, will be able to get 500 car booster seats and 500 bike helmets.”

Arizona law requires that all child passengers under age 5 must be secured in a car seat. The seat must meet appropriate height and weight specifications for the child. Arizona does not have a statewide bicycle helmet law, but in 1993, the City of Tucson passed an ordinance requiring anyone under the age of 18 to wear an approved bicycle helmet on city streets.

Councilmember Fimbres wants to distribute the bike helmets and car booster seats to those in need, city wide. Further information on this initiative will be coming in the near future.

Sun Tran Report for September 2011

SEP_11_FINAL


Sun Tran’s purpose is to provide those who can’t afford a car, transportation to get to and from work, to school, to a doctor’s appointment and to be able to survive in our City.

More than 90% of the Sun Tran routes service the City of Tucson, which provides more than 80% of the funds to operate the system, in addition to what Tucson citizens are paying at the fare box.

The facts speak about Sun Tran’s purpose.

According to the Sun Tran Report of September 2011, the average passengers per hour was 31.2, of which the top ten routes of passengers per hour, five of the routes, #8, #7, #24, #6 and #29 service Ward 5. The bottom 13 are the express routes.

(Route 8 – 40.5, Route 7 – 39.9, Route 24 – 38.2, Route 6 – 34.7 and Route 29 – 34.7)

This is a pattern that continues for the following:

The total ridership was 1,777,419, according to the September Sun Tran Report, of which 30%, or 534,540, were from these five routes.

(Route 8 – 278,442, Route 6 - 116,148, Route 7 – 72,574, Route 29 – 42,871 and Route 24 – 24,505)

The average revenue per hour for Sun Tran was $18.68, for which these five routes above average.

(Route 8 - $21.64, Route 6 - $21.66, Route 7 - $24.43, Route 29 - $20.75 and Route 24 - $23.00)

The average cost per pass was $2.86, for which these five routes that service my Ward were below average.

(Route 8 - $2.14, Route 6 - $2.53, Route 7 - $2.28, Route 29 - $2.62 and Route 24 - $2.27()

The average subsidy per pass was $2.27, for which these five routes that service my Ward were below average.

(Route 8 - $1.61, Route 6 - $1.90, Route 7 - $1.67, Route 29 - $2.02 and Route 24 - $1.67)

For all of these, the bottom 13 again were the express routes.

Tucson will be facing tough decisions in the forthcoming year and it is important that those who ride Sun Tran’s buses, and most importantly, speak to the Mayor and their Councilmember.

Friday, October 21, 2011

STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS HONORED BY WARD 5 AND DISTRICT 2

More than 40 students, from Sunnyside, Desert View and Sahuarita High School, as well as eighteen community leaders, were honored for their achievements by Pima County Supervisor Ramon Valadez and Ward 5 Councilmember Richard Fimbres.

These awards were presented at the Kino Community Center, with more than 200 in attendance.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

NEIGHBORHOOD PARKING RESTRICTIONS LIFTED FOR UA FOOTBALL GAME

City of Tucson parking enforcement agents will not ticket motorists in
the neighborhoods surrounding the University of Arizona for the
University of Arizona football game. Neighborhood parking restrictions
will be lifted beginning at 2 p.m. and will last throughout the night.


City of Tucson parking enforcement agents who are on duty tomorrow will
ticket motorists for safety violations such as parking in the wrong
direction (facing oncoming traffic) on a residential street, parking on
a sidewalk, parking within 5 feet of driveway, parking within 10 feet of
alley and parking within 30 feet of an intersection, and parking in
front of a fire hydrant or in a red zone.

Vote in 2011 Tucson General Election


Tucson City Council General Election: Vote-by-mail ballots were dropped in the mail on October 19. Voters will begin receiving their ballots today.
Early Voting location: Tucson City Clerk Election Center, 800 E. 12th Street, open October 20-November 7, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.)
All vote-by-mail ballots must be in the possession of the City Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order for your ballot to be counted. The final day to vote (Election Day) is Tuesday, November 8. For a list of voting locations on Election Day seehttp://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/sites/default/files/clerks/Ballot%20Replacement%20Sites.pdf.
Please remember to sign and date the affidavit portion of your ballot envelope.
The sooner you return your vote-by-mail ballot, the sooner the phone calls to your home reminding you to vote will stop. So do it today!