Tucson's Santa Rita Park Neighborhood

Vote Oct 7-Nov 2; 2010 contacts for SRPNA

2010-08-16T22:30:00.005-07:00

TUCSON -- Be sure to VOTE in the important Arizona elections Oct 7-Nov 2.

The skatepark was named for Albert M. Gallego, former SRPNA President.

Keep an eye on proposed 22nd St. widening and 22ndstreet.info

For current info, contact current SRPNA President Angie Quiroz, angiemq(at)cox.net

You may also email State Rep. Daniel Patterson, roundriver(at)gmail.com or follow him on twitter @RepPatterson

Thank you.

New Tucson crime stats released

2009-10-13T21:26:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- New crime stats for last 45 days just posted. Quik Mart at S 4th Av. & E 22nd St. is #3 site in city.

Park updates, 22nd St. process, trash, lights, etc.

2009-09-24T19:25:00.004-07:00

TUCSON -- The 22nd St. widening issue remains hot. Two designs I saw in August had problems that would harm the neighborhood and park. 22nd Street should keep the current alignment and the 6 lane design as narrow and nice as possible. I am watching this as State Rep. for the area and neighborhood/park resident/family man who cares. Go to the meetings and get involved, keep an eye on 22ndstreet.info for official information.

The skatepark seems busy most of the time. Trash remains an issue in the park, especially related to skatepark, feedings and sometimes sports events.

Ball field lights seem often on late and sometimes when no one is playing, wasting money and energy and wrecking the night sky. Tucson Parks & Rec should deal with this and other park issues better.

BMXers take over skatepark; 22nd St. mtg. July 9

2009-06-28T12:13:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- Today at noon a large group of BMX bike riders took over the Santa Rita Park skatepark. I went over there and it seemed peaceful, so I left. They were riding and doing tricks in the bowls, etc.

I don't know all the details here, but it seems they have been asking for some bike time at the new facility and the city has been saying no. It would be nice for Tucson Parks & Recreation to try to work this out so BMXers can have some fair time.

In other news, the 22nd St. widening CoC/RTA will next meet on July 9, with a specific agenda item on Santa Rita Park Neighborhood plan. Follow RTA-run 22ndstreet.info for more info.

Watch 22ndstreet.info; skatepark open and busy

2009-05-26T18:00:00.003-07:00

TUCSON -- Keep an eye on 22ndstreet.info for updates on the City/RTA proposal to widen 22nd St. through south downtown.

The skatepark is done, good size and getting a lot of use. Some minor problems with graffiti and trash some days. Could be a positive long-term for the park, but not sure on wisdom of plans to extend it to east. That spot could be a good one for a nice zocalo for neighbors to gather.

Bertha Gallego has been circulating the petition to name the skatepark after her late husband Albert, who was a long-time neighborhood leader. We all signed.

22nd St. widening and properties meeting Apr 16

2009-04-03T19:20:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- The upcoming COC meeting will be on Thursday, April 16, 2009, at 6:00 p.m., at the Santa Rosa Recreation Center.

This meeting's agenda is available at 22ndstreet.info.

This meeting will mostly address the City of Tucson's Real Estate Procedures as they pertain to acquisition and relocation during projects such as this. Please invite your neighbors who you feel would benefit from the real estate information project managers will present.

from Priscilla Fernandez
community outreach for project consultants
priscilla(at)kaneenpr.com
885.9009

Tucson south downtown skate park progressing

2009-03-06T20:04:00.003-07:00

TUCSON -- The Santa Rita Park skate park is under construction and seems to be nearing completion.

I hope this project succeeds, and other good plans for the park move forward.

I've been told the skate park will be named after the late Albert Gallego, as we requested.

Rep. Patterson at Jan 7 SRPNA mtg.

2009-01-06T19:13:00.003-07:00

SOUTH TUCSON -- I plan to stop by the neighborhood association meeting Wed. to touch base and provide a quick view of the upcoming legislative session at the State Capitol, and what it may mean for neighborhoods.

Contact me at my legislative offices: 398.6000 Tucson, 602.926.5342 Capitol

State Representative Daniel Patterson
Santa Rita Park neighbor, and former president

22ndstreet.info launched for widening project

2008-12-04T21:29:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- New website for RTA controversial 22nd St. widening project.

Recent crime stats for neighborhood and city

2008-11-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Crime report from NSN and TPD for Barrio Santa Rita Park.

Click here for city-wide listings.

Stats at these links are continuously updated.

22nd St. widening committee meets Th. Nov 13

2008-11-11T09:14:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- The newly formed citizens oversight committee will hold its first meeting Thurs. Nov 13, 6pm at the Santa Rosa Center, 1080 S. 10th Av.

22nd St. project info and committee meeting notes should be here.

Everyone concerned or affected by the 22nd St. widening proposal should participate to help protect and improve our quality of life.

Skatepark under construction; 22nd St.; 4th Av.

2008-10-30T10:32:00.009-07:00

UPDATE, 8:20p: The city has responded on skatepark design, and the topic will be discussed at the Nov 5 SRPNA meeting, see Oct 8 post below for time and place.

TUCSON -- The skatepark is finally under construction just east of 3rd Av. and 21st St. Some neighbors are concerned because earlier promises from City Manager Mike Hein's office to involve neighbors in project design have not yet been honored, including possibly naming the facility in honor of Albert Gallego. Recently, Peg Weber of Tucson Parks and Rec. assured us the project manager would be in touch to discuss, but he has not been.

Jim Glock with Tucson Dept. of Transportation and RTA has hand-picked people to serve on the 22nd St. widening proposal's Citizens' Oversight Committee. Although many applied to serve, at this time, it appears only one of our neighbors has been chosen. It seems she has good intentions, but she has not been involved in detail for many years with the proposal, unlike others who also applied.

An improvement project along S. 4th Av. has been delayed by the city. It was supposed to start by the end of this year, but now city officials are saying maybe in the spring. The city wants money from ADoT, but has yet to even ask for it. It could be very hard to get any funding from ADoT now due to the state's very bad budget situation. SRPNA Historic Preservation Chair Demion Clinco is looking in to this.

At this time, it is unclear how new SRPNA President Angie Quiroz, a city employee, will handle existing agreements on the park, 22nd St. widening proposal and other already approved projects. At this time, she has my support, and I've reminded her that the President cannot change any existing agreements without clear support of a majority of neighborhood association members as voted on in an advertised public meeting.

Vote Nov 4; Changes at SRPNA, next mtg. Nov 5

2008-10-08T08:52:00.011-07:00

TUCSON -- Vote & unite for ongoing progress in your Santa Rita Park neighborhood. Next SRPNA meeting: Wed. Nov 5, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Friends & Neighbors – After years of rewarding neighborhood service and progress, I am voluntarily stepping down so new SRPNA President Angie Quiroz can take over all responsibilities. I wish Angie and SRPNA the best, and I hope to stay involved to help quality of life and get ‘in progress’ projects done. Thank you! Daniel Patterson, former SRPNA President.

VOTE Tues. Nov 4, 6a-7p, Santa Rosa Library, 1075 S. 10th Ave (Bring ID), or return your vote-by-mail ballot if you haven’t already. Request your vote-by-mail ballot by Oct 24. Visit recorder.pima.gov or call 740.4330 for all info and help. Voting is a powerful right, so please do it.

Oct 1 officers election meeting. Vote Oct 2 -- Nov 4

2008-09-26T15:10:00.009-07:00

TUCSON -- Next Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association meeting: Wed. Oct 1, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

Friends & Neighbors – Please join us to help improve neighborhood quality of life.

Agenda, main item: Annual election of SRPNA officers.
Short briefings: Healthy Housing project with Drachman Institute; Report and Q&A with TPD; Status of park & neighborhood improvement plans.

VOTE Oct 2 – Nov 4 in the important election. Register to vote (deadline Oct 6) and request your vote-by-mail ballot (deadline Oct 24). Visit recorder.pima.gov or call 740.4330 for all info and help. Voting is a powerful right, so please do it. Your vote is your voice, and it must be heard.

Thank you,
Daniel Patterson
President

Update from Sept meeting; next meeting Oct 1

2008-09-05T11:17:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- At our meeting Sept 3, we approved the widely supported neighborhood tree planting proposal, and will be seeking funding. Demion Clinco is lead on this project for SRPNA.

We also continued to coordinate crime reduction efforts with TPD, and agreed to ask Tucson Parks & Recreation to name the planned skate park after Albert Gallego.

SRPNA welcomes and thanks our new Secretary, Charlotte Speers, for her service.

Our next meeting will be Wed. Oct 1, 5:30-6:45pm at Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

Be sure to register to vote, get on the permanent early voter list and VOTE Oct 2 -- Nov 4. For help or more info, call 740.4330

Thank you,
Daniel Patterson, President
Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association

Agenda for Aug 6 Santa Rita Park NA meeting

2008-08-05T12:17:00.002-07:00

TUCSON -- Agenda for Aug 6 meeting, 5:30-6:45pm at Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av. Oscar Rendon, SRPNA VP, will likely chair this meeting.

-- Moment of silence for Albert Gallego
-- TPD update
-- 22nd St. widening plan update, process and Q&A, with City, RTA and project consultants. (main item).
-- Neighborhood improvement plan update (Demion C. is lead)

Be sure to vote in the primary election Sept 2, or now if you have your early vote by mail ballot.

Albert Gallego dies, long time SRPNA leader

2008-07-25T19:53:00.004-07:00

TUCSON -- Longtime Santa Rita Park Neighborhood resident and activist Albert Gallego died last night. He had long been ill.

Albert was a solid leader for our neighborhood for many years, and he'll be missed. I learned a lot from Albert, and we'll keep his family in our prayers.

SRPNA is sending our condolences and a card to his wife. We may also take up a collection for Albert's family at our upcoming monthly meeting, Aug 6, 5:30-6:45pm at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

One of our upcoming park and our neighborhood/improvement projects, or perhaps the baseball field near 20th St., should be named after Albert.

Read Albert's obituary.

RTA vote was rigged, says former county staffer

2008-07-10T07:18:00.004-07:00

TUCSON -- Reports are coming out claiming the RTA vote may have been rigged by corrupt Pima County elections officials.

The RTA vote is what officials are pointing to for authorization of the very controversial plan to widen 22nd St. through our neighborhood.

There must be an immediate recount of the RTA ballots.

Info for July 2 SRPNA meeting; Vote July 31-Sept 2

2008-07-01T23:51:00.004-07:00

Unite to help your Santa Rita Park neighborhood

Next meeting: Wed. July 2, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Friends & Neighbors – Your neighborhood needs you. Please get involved to help improve quality of life.

Planned agenda for July 2 meeting: Update on park and neighborhood improvement plans; TPD; your questions, ideas and concerns.

VOTE: 2008 is a critical election year. Please register to vote, request your early vote-by-mail ballot, and vote. It’s easy, call 740.4330 or 740.4350. Important primary elections start July 31. Voting is a powerful right, so do it.

Questions? Contact Daniel Patterson, President, SRPNA at 906.2159 or roundriver(at)gmail(dot)com. Thank you.

Next SRPNA meeting July 2; Got (rain) water?

2008-06-16T16:25:00.001-07:00

Water Harvesting for YOU

Water bills are going up. Would you like to catch some of the rain that will run off your roof next month and use it later?

Would you like to have a water harvesting system on your house?

If you qualify, you could have a 500 gallon water harvesting system built by the Teaching & Helping program for only the cost of materials by NEXT WEEK. (You must own your own home, have limited income, and be able to pay for the materials in two payments. Cost is about $400 - $600, including some rain gutters.)

The Teaching & Helping program trains teens and community volunteers to repair and upgrade existing houses. We organize small teams made of an experienced mentor and several volunteers who do important projects on the homes of limited-income families. The homeowner pays for the materials and the labor is free.

Next week, teams from the Volunteer Center's summer youth program will be installing a wheelchair ramp, a water harvesting sytem, installing ceiling fans, repairing electrical and plumbing problems, etc. Your home could get the water harvesting system.

If you are interested and feel you might qualify, contact Tres English, 795-3413 or tres1(at)mindspring(dot)com

Yard sale canceled, sorry; plan to reset for fall

2008-06-06T17:49:00.003-07:00

I just got a call from yard sale leader Kathryn. Due to a personal responsibility that just came up for her all weekend, she's decided to cancel the June 7-8 yard sale.

The plan is to reschedule it for later this summer or fall. Please check back here later for details.

SRPNA apologizes for any inconveniences.

Agenda for June 4 meeting; yard sale June 7-8

2008-06-01T09:16:00.003-07:00

Unite to help your Santa Rita Park neighborhood

Next meeting: Wed. June 4, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Agenda for June 4 meeting: Yard sale; update on neighborhood improvement plans; need Secretary – an executive committee role. Other agenda items proposed at start of meeting may be considered at the discretion of the President.

Neighborhood yard sale: Want to help your neighborhood? Got stuff you want to sell? June 7-8, 121 E. 23rd St., 7a-3p both days. Contact Kathryn, 780.0916

VOTE: 2008 is an important election year. Please register to vote, return or request your early vote-by-mail card, and vote. It’s easy, call 740.4330 or 740.4350

Contact: Daniel Patterson, President, 906.2159, roundriver(at)gmail(dot)com

Next SRPNA meeting June 4; Secretary; you write?

2008-05-07T20:13:00.006-07:00

We'll meet same time and place as always (see below). Check back later for more info.

We still need a Secretary, so please consider joining the executive board and serving in this important position. Thank you.

Also, there is room for more contributors on this blog, so please let us know if you want to write here on neighborhood issues.

Contact President Daniel Patterson with any questions or requests at roundriver(at)gmail(dot)com or 906.2159

May 7 SRPNA meeting; get ready to vote!

2008-04-14T11:15:00.002-07:00

Unite to help your Santa Rita Park neighborhood

Next meeting: Wed. May 7, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Santa Rita Park neighbors – Please participate in our next neighborhood meeting.

Planned agenda: Yard sale/spring clean up; Update on neighborhood improvement plans; SRPNA needs a new Secretary, please consider helping.

VOTE: 2008 is an important election year. Please register to vote, return or request your early vote-by-mail card, and vote. It’s easy, call 740.4330 or 740.4350

Apr 2 SRPNA meeting info

2008-03-18T16:20:00.004-07:00

Unite for your Santa Rita Park neighborhood

Next meeting: Wed. April 2, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Santa Rita Park neighbors – Our next meeting is coming up. Please participate.

Planned main agenda items: 5 Points project, update and consideration of funding request (canceled by city); Final presentation on Healthy Neighborhoods plan.

SRPNA needs a new Secretary, please consider helping in this officer position.

March 5 is next meeting, 5:30pm Sam Lena library

2008-02-08T20:18:00.005-07:00

S. TUCSON -- Please attend the next regular monthly meeting of SRPNA, March 5, 1607 S. 4th Ave., 5:30-6:45pm

Agenda (updated 3/4):

introductions, 5:30pm
selection of new Secretary
TPD briefing (invited)
Ward 5 update
5 points project update
Healthy Neighborhoods planning update
Treasurer update
bylaws review subcommittee
Back to Basics subcommittee
call to audience; adjourn, 6:45pm

Planned for April meeting: UA Drachman Inst. neighborhood planning final presentation; Officer elections for 08.

Agenda for Feb 6 meeting

2008-02-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

Sam Lena library, 5:30-6:45pm, 1607 S 6th Av.

1. introductions, 5:30pm
2. TPD briefing
3. Healthy Neighborhoods planning update*
4. Treasurer update
5. bylaws review subcommittee
6. Back to Basics subcommittee
7. call to audience; adjourn, 6:45pm

*Coming up: Meeting # 2. Presentation of Preliminary Design Ideas: Wednesday Feb 27, 5.30 - 7pm @ Sam Lena Library.

SRP skate park issue covered in local media

2008-01-21T07:51:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- AZ Daily Star skate park article. Also recently covered in the Tucson Weekly.

Next SRPNA meeting is Wed. Feb 6

2008-01-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

SOUTH DOWNTOWN TUCSON -- We had a good meeting last night, and our next regular monthly meeting will be Feb 6, 5:30-6:45pm at Sam Lena Library.

Please be sure to participate in the Jan 30 Healthy Neighborhoods event, see below.

Planned agenda for Jan 9 meeting

2008-01-06T16:53:00.000-07:00

1. introductions, 5:30pm
2. call for new Secretary, pay dues for 08
3. TPD briefing
4. Main meeting topic: 22nd St. widening and related planning
5. quick update on upcoming healthy neighborhoods workshops
6. bylaws review subcommittee
7. Back to Basics subcommittee
8. call to audience; adjourn, 6:45pm

Jan 08 meeting and Healthy Neighborhood events

2007-12-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

SOUTH DOWNTOWN TUCSON -- SRPNA will hold our next regular meeting Wed. Jan 9, 2008 at the Sam Lena Library, 5:30-7pm. 22nd St. widening and related planning are the main planned topic, with presenters from the City of Tucson, and opportunity for community input.

We also have scheduled the following dates for the Building Healthy Neighborhoods planning workshops with the UA Drachman Inst.

Meeting # 1. Design workshop: Wednesday, Jan 30, 5.30 – 7pm @ Sam Lena Library.

Meeting # 2. Presentation of Preliminary Design Ideas: Wednesday Feb 27, 5.30 - 7pm @ Sam Lena Library.

We will discuss walkways, traffic calming, open spaces, community gardens, safe streets and places that support health and physical activity.

Happy holidays.

Daniel Patterson
President

November and December events

2007-11-08T19:58:00.000-07:00

UPDATE, 11/17: Help neighbors finalize plans for Santa Rita Park.

Important meeting: Wed. Dec 5, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

Santa Rita Park neighbors – We’ve now had two park design public workshops with the UA Drachman Institute, and we’ll have another – maybe the last – on Dec 5 to discuss and try to decide on a new neighborhood vision for Santa Rita Park improvements.

Considerations include: skate park, 22nd St. widening, softball fields, pool, parking, dogs, re-vegetation, trees, homeless, gardens, art, benches, ramadas, play areas for kids, traffic control, exercise path and more.

Your review and comments are requested Dec 5. Please be there.

*

Park planning with neighbors and UA Drachman Institute

Nov 17, Santa Rosa Center, 1080 S. 10th Ave., 2-4pm. Visual presentation of community input.

Dec 5, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave., 5:30-6:45pm. Final/more revisions and possible plan approval (at regular SRPNA monthly meeting).

Another Dec 5 agenda item: Consider moving 08 meetings to first Saturdays at 2pm, to increase participation and allow for more meeting time.

Finally, a possible Dec agenda item is 22nd St. widening planning, with TDoT and city consultant planners, but it may be set for Jan to allow for adequate time.

Happy holidays.

Daniel Patterson
President

SRPNA Nov meeting this Wed., Nov 7, Sam Lena

2007-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- We will meet again this Wed. Nov 7, 5:30-6:45pm at the Sam Lena Library.

Main agenda:

1. S. 4th Av. street scape improvements project (TDoT).
2. Park planning effort update and discussion (UA Drachman Inst.).

Please be there and bring your neighbors.

City debates Oct 29; park planning; Nov 7 meeting

2007-10-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

UPDATE, Oct 29, 9pm: S. TUCSON -- Participating candidates were Glassman, Romero, Croteau, Spahr and Baker, and yes and no sides of the Prop. 200 tax repeal and water issue.

Voters gained knowledge on candidates and issues. All candidates and advocates there had some good ideas, and showed hard work and commitment by showing up to a neighborhood-sponsored debate.

Fox 11 TV news sent a cameraman.

*

TUCSON, 10/3 -- We have invited all City Council candidates, Mayor candidates, and yes and no sides of the trash tax repeal and water measure, Prop. 200, to a SRPNA sponsored debate on Mon. Oct 29, starting at 5:30pm at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

There will be a neutral moderator.

The public will have a chance to ask questions.

Tentative schedule of debates, 5:30-7:35pm (confirmed in bold):

Ward 4, Scott (D) v. Spahr (R), 5:30-5:55pm

Ward 2, Glassman (D) v. Oien (R), 5:55-6:20pm

Mayor, Crouteau (G) v. Walkup (R), 6:20-6:45pm

Ward 1, Romero (D) v. Baker (G), 6:45-7:10pm

Prop. 200, Yes v. No, 7:10-7:35pm

Order may shift.

Register to VOTE

*

Other upcoming important events:

SPECIAL EVENTS, Park Design and Planning Workshops with the UA Drachman Inst.
Oct 27, Armory Park Center, 3-5pm. Gathering community input for Santa Rita Park improvements.
Nov 17, Santa Rosa Center, 2-4pm. Visual presentation of community input.
Dec 5, Sam Lena Library, 5:30-6:45pm. Final revisions and plan approval.

NEXT SRPNA monthly meeting: Wed. Nov 7, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

SRPNA looks out for night sky above field glare

2007-09-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Tucson's dome of nightly light pollution

TUCSON -- SRPNA today raised concerns about light pollution from ball field lights. The letter below was sent to Peg Weber of Tucson Parks & Rec., and other city officials. DRP

*

Hi, Peg -- We ask Tucson Parks & Rec to please carefully inspect the ballfield lights this week, preferably at night, and consider the best ways to reduce glare and light pollution in to the night sky.

Perhaps we could meet with your staff to investigate and look for solutions?

Right now the lights on the NE field are on, and some are pointing up in to the sky. They may have been rearranged by monsoon winds.

The lights on the west field also shine in to the neighborhood pretty bad. We'd like them redirected, and perhaps dimmed or a few shut off.

We believe these lights may be in violation of Dark Sky rules and goals, and it has been quite a problem for a while. The new white lights have not helped, and even seem brighter.

Have these systems ever been checked for compliance with Dark Sky rules?

Also, sometimes the ballfield lights are on, but no one is playing. Is there a number we may call so they can be shut off? Seems like a lot of wasteful and expensive energy use.

Thank you,

Daniel Patterson
President
Santa Rita Park NA

*

City response from Peg Weber of Parks & Rec., 9/21

Thank you for this e-mail discussion about the lights at Santa Rita Park. We have sent our staff to check the field lights, and early next week, our light contractor will be out to make needed adjustments to the lights...

The Sports Office of our Department has been informed, and will contact the leagues that play on the fields, asking that the lights be turned off when they have completed play, rather than waiting for the timer to shut them off. We are also checking the timer to assure it is operating correctly.

President Patterson talks with high school students

2007-09-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

Daniel Patterson

TUCSON -- I was invited and spoke today about neighborhoods and Santa Rita Park at City High School downtown.

It went well. The students were pretty interested in considering more involvement in their neighborhoods, and curious about the issues and projects of SRPNA.

Menlo Park NA President Mac Hudson also spoke.

'1000 trees' coming to south Santa Rita Park

2007-09-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Kids dig planting trees

UPDATE, 10/28: This project was done and very successful. Let's do more street trees in SRPN.

TUCSON -- On October 27 people all across the city will be planting 1000 trees.

This is a positive and needed effort.

More trees will help beautify and cool Tucson, reducing the urban heat island effect, lowering energy use and related power bills, and provide more shade and habitat for people and wildlife.

Santa Rita Park will be planting at least 33 new community trees along 23rd street, between 4th & 6th avenues, and 5th avenue, between 22nd and 25th streets.

Santa Rita Park neighbors along the area have committed to care for the trees.

We thank '1000 Trees for Tucson' for donating trees to the Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association, and Demion Clinco for helping organize this true 'urban renewal' effort.

Next SRPNA meeting is Wed., Oct 3, 5:30pm

2007-09-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Join us Wed., Oct 3, 5:30-6:45pm for the next monthly meeting of the Santa Rita Park NA at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave. in South Tucson.

Our main item of discussion will be consideration of SRP neighborhood participation in the City's Neighborhood Preservation Zone Pilot program.

Hope to see you and your neighbors there!

SRPNA moves to oppose current skatepark plan

2007-09-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

UPDATE, 10/31: Letter sent today to City leaders.

SANTA RITA PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Oct 2007

Re: Proposed skate plaza in Santa Rita Park.

City leaders -- The Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association has become very concerned about the proposed skate facility planned for the middle of our neighborhood park. Since it was proposed many years have passed and needs have changed.

After many years of delay, and no communication from Parks and Rec. or skate park proponents for many months, neighborhood support for this proposed project has dissipated. It has been replaced by growing concern that a large concrete skate plaza replacing one of the last usable open green-spaces in our historic park is not in the public-interest.

We consider Santa Rita Park our neighborhood's greatest asset. The park is both the geographical and cultural core of our community and its future progress is paramount in the improvement and potential of this area.

Yet, now this park does not serve our neighborhood the way it could or should. Too much of the park has become a void of fenced fields and useless space nearly impossible to traverse. The useless chopped-up fragments are further devalued by an erratic un-planned landscape and no master planning.

The future 22nd Street widening will take even more park space, leaving even less for the neighborhood. This end is not acceptable.

Today, the neighborhood association finds it unwise to endorse projects that further divide the park into special interest projects – resulting in the loss of open space, worsening the urban heat island effect and further limiting usability for the entire surrounding community.

Neighbors have mounting questions regarding the appropriateness of this proposal. Is the location and concept declared suitable years ago still relevant today? Will it serve the surrounding neighborhood? What demographic will this facility serve? Will this investment benefit our neighborhood? Who will manage this space? Who will provide security? Are other areas of the park more appropriate, such as the southeast corner of the park in the paved area between the pool and the railroad tracks?

The Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association requests the skate park project to be placed on immediate hold. We would like to meet with city staff and leaders to discuss alternatives and options. We are currently working on a new park plan with the UA Drachman Institute, which will be done by the end of the year and include exciting new visionary ideas.

Thank you,
Daniel Patterson
President, Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association

*

TUCSON, 9/5 -- Tonight at our monthly meeting SRPNA members voted to oppose the current plans to build a concrete skateboard park within Santa Rita Park near S. 3rd Av. and E. 21st St.

We have requested a meeting with city leaders to discuss possible solutions.

Next Santa Rita Park NA meeting is Wed. Sept 5

2007-09-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

SOUTH TUCSON -- SRPNA will next meet this Wed, Sept 5, 5:30-7pm at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av. See below for some agenda items.

Please attend. Check back here later in the week for a likely update.

This Labor Day, let us all please remember the past and current struggles of workers.

SRPNA says no to Big L Mkt. liquor license (again)

2007-08-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

(copy of email sent)

Hon. Mayor and Council --

The Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association (SRPNA) strongly opposes a liquor license for Big L Mkt., within our neighborhood boundaries.

As you may recall, Big L recently applied, and was denied by the state. Now they are back, and should be denied again. SRPNA opposed it then for good reason, and we still strongly oppose a liquor license for Big L.

Big L's owners, from well outside our neighborhood area, have refused to work with SRPNA to clean up the place and stop selling cheap malt liquor and single cans and bottle of alcohol.

Drunkeness related to Big L is a blight and danger in our neighborhood.

Please again support local citizens and oppose the Big L liquor license request at the hearing before you on Sept 5.

We ask you please to also direct the City Atty. to closely follow and oppose this application at all levels, including in front of state authorities in Phoenix.

Thank you,

Daniel R. Patterson
President
Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association

SRPNA Aug discussion; future agendas; park event

2007-08-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

Image of proposed big concrete skatepark in Santa Rita Park at S 3rd Av and 21st St.

SOUTH TUCSON -- Two SRPNA officers met this eve with two UA reps at the Sam Lena Library about our participation in the Healthy Neighborhoods Program, primarily focused on park-related improvements and historic preservation.

A letter and park map with images from Demion C. was reviewed. The letter focused in part on big concerns about the skatepark proposal.

Some future meeting agenda items:

NEXT SRPNA MEETING, Wed. Sept 5: review and approve July minutes; briefing on Aug 8 informal SRPNA meeting; city censorship of mailings; skatepark; park improvements; Big L update; bike and ped safety actions; fall clean-up. 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave.

FUTURE SRPNA MEETING, Oct 3: 22nd St. widening issues; NPZ pilot project participation.

SPECIAL EVENTS, Park Design and Planning Workshops with the UA Drachman Inst.
Oct 27, Armory Park Senior Center, 3-5pm. Gathering community input for Santa Rita Park improvements.
Nov 17, location and time TBD. Visual presentation of community input.
Dec 5, Sam Lena Library, 5:30-6:45pm. Final revisions and plan approval.

Vote by mail early, mail back your card today

2007-08-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- The city has mailed out easy vote by mail ballot request cards to registered voters. Check the top box to get ballots for both the primary and general elections coming up, sign, and return to the City Clerk for free.

It's very easy, and important. Please do it now. There are some big city issues and races to vote on this political season.

Neighborhood meeting on park improvements 8/8

2007-07-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Next SRPNA meeting is Aug 8, 5:30-7pm at Sam Lena library.

Main topic is park improvements.

SRPNA's historic preservation head in 4th Av. news

2007-07-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

DOWNTOWN TUCSON -- SRPNA's Historic Preservation Committee Chairman Demion Clinco is featured in this week's Tucson Weekly, talking about the new 4th Av. underpass design.

"It looks like Anywhere, USA," said Demion Clinco, a member of the Tucson-Pima County Historical Commission, at the group's June meeting. "We're turning into Glendale, Calif., and losing the authenticity of Tucson."

Surveys; ¿traducción de la necesidad?; 7/11 & 8/8

2007-06-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

SOUTH DOWNTOWN -- Quick SRPNA items:

-- City elections are coming up in Sept and Nov, register to vote / registro al voto

-- SRPNA July meeting is 7/11; August meeting is 8/8, SECOND Wednesday, topic: park improvements, 5:30-7pm, Sam Lena Library.

-- Look for our improved newsletter to hit your mailbox around Aug 1.

-- Contact Daniel Patterson, SRPNA President (roundriver@gmail.com), if you want the full survey results from the May 19 Park Party, or need translation.

-- ¿Traducción de la necesidad? Contacto roundriver@gmail.com

Neighborhood news: 4th Av.; County funds; H2O

2007-06-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Recent news articles you may want to read:

4th Av. underpass closed to all use until 2009 during construction.

Neighborhood requests and Pima County neighborhood improvement spending limits.

Water.

Violence against homeless people a daily threat

2007-06-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Story in the Weekly about violence against homeless people.

Some of it is set at Casa Maria Soup Kitchen, which is in the Santa Rita Park Neighborhood.

July meeting moved to second Wednesday

2007-06-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

SANTA RITA PARK -- To respect the 4th of July holiday, SRPNA will next meet Wed. July 11, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, S. 6th Av., S. Tucson

Great party!; Next meeting 6/6; Truck traffic control

2007-05-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

TUCSON SOUTH DOWNTOWN -- SRPNA had a great event in Santa Rita Park May 19. Big thanks to everyone who helped and was there.

Special big thanks to La Buena restaurant for the great food.

We will review all comments gathered, etc. at our next SRPNA meeting: Wed. June 6, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Av., South Tucson.

SRPNA President Daniel Patterson is working cooperatively with the city, Armory Park NA, and the Ward 5 & 6 offices on a plan to curb and hopefully end heavy truck traffic through the neighborhoods, an on-going and growing problem.

As a first step, SRPNA will petition for new speed bumps, which heavy trucks try to avoid, on 19th & 20th Sts. between 4th Av. and Jacobus, within SRPNA boundaries.

APNA will petition for speed bumps on 18th, 17th and 16th Sts.

May 19 walk in the park block party in AZ Daily Star

2007-05-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Arizona Daily Star

Santa Rita Park association party

The Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association presents the Walk in the Park Neighborhood Block Party 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Santa Rita Park, 400 E. 22nd St. The event is free.

The party will include a "polka walk," bike safety and other activities for kids, music and refreshments. Information about receiving a free tree from Trees for Tucson, composting and gardening will be available as will health screenings.

Block Party at Santa Rita Park May 19, 4-7pm

2007-05-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

SE DOWNTOWN/SANTA RITA PARK -- Fun event is coming up soon. Free good food, prizes, info, kids, etc. Meet neighbors and help plan to improve our neighborhoods. People from Armory Park and other adjacent barrios also welcome.

Santa Rita Park

Next block party planning meeting is May 17, 5:30-6:30pm, Santa Rita Park (near 3rd Av. & 20th St.)

Next SRPNA meeting is May 2 at Sam Lena library

2007-04-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

S. TUCSON -- Please join us Wed., May 2, 5:30-6:45pm at Sam Lena library, 1607 S. 6th Av.

There is a special short meeting starting at 5pm about the upcoming: WALK IN THE PARK BLOCK PARTY, MAY 19.

Park party planning Thurs. Apr. 19; No on Big L

2007-04-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Help us plan the great upcoming May 19 Walk in the Park event.

Planning meeting: Thursday, Apr 19, 4pm, Santa Rita Park, 3rd Av. & 20th St.

We're happy to report that Armory Park NA has agreed to join us in the May 19 event.

GOOD NEWS UPDATE: The State of Arizona agreed with SRPNA and the City and denied the liquor license for the Big L Mkt. on S. 4th Av. Special thanks to Councilman Leal and aide Abe Marques for help here.

SRPNA pushes for responsible mosquito control

2007-04-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Today we inquired with Pima Cty. and the city about recently announced mosquito control plans.

Our short letter to responsible officials in Pima County and the City of Tucson is below.

How does the county plan to 'treat' standing water?

If pesticides will be used, has the county considered health concerns, and kill of other species besides mosquitos?

We are concerned that the fight against West Nile could lead to other problems created by pesticides and clearing of vegetation.

Daniel Patterson
President, Santa Rita Park NA

Pima Council on Aging guest at Wed. SRPNA mtg.

2007-04-02T12:04:00.001-07:00

TUCSON -- Carol Ostrander of the Pima Council on Aging will discuss the Neighbors Care program, a community volunteer effort to help older residents continue to live in their homes as long as possible.

This Wednesday, Apr 4, 5:30pm, Sam Lena Library.

Walk in the (Santa Rita) Park Block Party, May 19!

2007-03-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Special party planning meeting Wed. Apr 4, 5pm, Sam Lena Library.

Walk in the (Santa Rita) Park Block Party, May 19!

¡Caminar en el Partido del Bloque del Parque, 19 de mayo!

What do you want in your Santa Rita Park neighborhood? ¿Qué deseas en tu vecindad?

Next meeting/planning/planeamiento: Wed., Apr 4, 5:30-6:45pm. Sam Lena Library/Biblioteca, 1607 S. 6th Av., S. Tucson

projects/proyectos: fun public events, park improvements, healthy neighborhoods, traffic control, safety; acontecimientos del público de la diversión, mejoras del parque, vecindades sanas, control de tráfico, seguridad

Unite for quality of life. Unir para la calidad de la vida.

Help plan 5/19 Santa Rita Park fiesta; Tues. 2:30pm

2007-03-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Meet with neighbors and the Drachman Inst. to plan the spring fiesta.

Meet this Tues. 3/13 at 2:30pm, Historic Y, 738 N. 5th Av., first floor conference room.

Next regular meeting of SRPNA is Wed. Apr 4, 5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library. We will discuss adding 'Barrio' to the front of our name.

Drachman Inst. at tonight's SRPNA meeting

2007-03-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

Topic: Healthy Neighborhoods program and planning for Santa Rita Park.

5:30-6:45pm, Sam Lena Library, S. 6th Av., S. Tucson

Future guests: April, Pima Council on Aging. May, Tucson-Pima Public Libraries

Spring fiesta in Santa Rita Park planned for May 19

2007-02-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Spring fiesta planning will happen at the Mar 7 meeting (info below).

Plan to be there for a fun Sunday afternoon in the park May 19.

Homeowners 60+ can get $4k for home repairs

2007-02-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Homeowners in Pima County 60 years and older can apply for up to $4,000 in home repair assistance.

Deadline for applications is April 14.

Healthy Neighborhoods update -- Drachman Inst.

2007-02-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association Members,

We appreciated your time and interest in the Building Healthy Neighborhoods Project and were excited about the discussion we had at your February 7th meeting. Our Building Healthy Neighborhood Project team came away with a sense of how the Neighborhood Association wanted to proceed.

In the meeting we attended, there was a lot of discussion about neighborhood improvements, including considerable focus on Santa Rita Park.

One of the suggestions for how to gather general information and improve communication within the neighborhood, was to hold a community / Health Festival in Santa Rita Park.

This event could have booths for raising health awareness; screenings, games, activities and prizes, information sharing, gardening sign up, Neighborhood Watch or safe neighborhood sign up, a neighborhood / park improvements Table..etc.

If that is step one, then things for the neighborhood to consider are:

1.) If a Community Meet & Greet event was to take place, what months would draw a larger audience? (April/ May/June/July/August...?)

2.) What specific focus would Santa Rita Park Neighborhood like to see at this event?

3.) Who are neighborhood leaders that could head up planning & coordination?

The Neighborhood Association also sought assistance with getting a newsletter going instead, of the simple card that goes to residents currently.

Our Building Health Neighborhoods team would like to attend another Neighborhood Association meeting, to gather more information and help plan the next step.

Jean McClelland, Kirsten Hoak & Lauve Metcalfe
Drachman Institute
University of Arizona

*

SRPNA thanks the Drachman Inst. We will meet again with them in Mar or Apr to continue planning on this and more. DRP

Action planning Feb 24; Monthly meeting March 7

2007-02-08T18:37:00.000-07:00

What do you want in the neighborhood? ¿Qué deseas en la vecindad?

planning/planeamiento: Sat., Feb 24, 2-4pm, Santa Rita Park, SE corner of 4th Av. & 21st St.
Wed., Mar 7, 5:30-6:30pm. Sam Lena Library/ Biblioteca, 1607 S. 6th Av., S. Tucson

Unite for quality of life. Unir para la calidad de la vida.

projects/proyectos: healthy neighborhoods, fun public events, park improvements, traffic control, safety; vecindades sanas, acontecimientos del público de la diversión, mejoras del parque, control de tráfico, seguridad

Contact: Daniel R. Patterson, President, 906.2159; Oscar Rendon, VP, 882.0616

SRP picked for UA Healthy Neighborhoods plan

2007-02-02T14:12:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- It's just been learned that the Drachman Institute's HUD project "Building Healthy Neighborhoods" (BHN) will work with the Santa Rita Park Neighborhood to explore ways to pursue healthy lifestyles, healthy homes, and a healthy neighborhood for our residents.

Be a part of this exciting project's first strategy session: Wed. Feb 7, 6pm, Sam Lena Library

Big thanks to Viki Rambo, SRPNA Secretary for working hard on this.

Santa Rita Park petitions for 4th Av. speed tables

2007-01-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- The Barrio Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association has filed an official city petition with resident signatures in support of speed tables on S. 4th Av. between 20th & 19th Sts., and 17th & 16th Sts. Armory Park NA is also in support.

Speeds now in this residential stretch are well above the posted 25 mph limit.

Next SRPNA mtg. is 1st Wed Feb 7 at Sam Lena

2007-01-14T13:41:00.000-07:00

5:30-6:45pm at Sam Lena library on S. 6th Av. in South Tucson.

Neighborhood Day at Capitol, Jan 24, RSVP now

2007-01-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

PHOENIX -- Neighborhood leaders should sign up now for this free trip to promote neighborhood interests at the State Capitol.

RSVP by Jan 10 by calling 791.4605.

Tucson Water at next SRPNA mtg. Jan 10

2007-01-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

to discuss rates, growth, and future water quality. 6pm.

Next SRPNA mtg. is Jan 10, help make 07 great

2006-12-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

S. TUCSON -- Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association meeting: Wed., Jan 10, 5:30-6:45pm at the Sam Lena Library on S. 6th Av.

SRPNA may protest Big L Mkt. liquor license

2006-12-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

UPDATE, Dec 21: SRPNA did protest the requested liquor license with a letter this week to the City and State from VP Oscar Rendon.

S. 4th Av. & 24th St. -- The Big L is a 'ghetto mart' specializing in selling high alcohol cheap malt liquor 40s and other junk. It is not helpful to our quality of life. Protest is due Dec 31.

View on why big freeways can harm quality of life

2006-12-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Read: LA-style freeway plans & sprawl will choke Arizona

Traffic control meeting Friday Dec 15, 10am

2006-12-08T18:13:00.000-07:00

UPDATE, Dec 21: The meeting went well with reps. from SRPNA, APNA, TDOT, and Councilwoman Nina Trasoff's office. TDOT is drawing up a proposal for speed tables on S. 4th Av., and other traffic control at S. 5th Av. & 21st St. There should be a draft to review in Jan.

SRPN -- Meet with neighborhood leaders and Tucson Dept. of Transportation staff to help plan traffic and semi-truck control near S. 4th Av. and the park.

Meet on the NE corner of S. 4th Av. and 21st St.

We need someone from Armory Park Neighborhood Association too.

Jan 10 next neighborhood meeting, please come

2006-12-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- The next meeting of the Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association will be Wed., Jan 10, 5:30-6:45pm at the Sam Lena Library on S. 6th Av. in South Tucson.

Help us plan a great spring event in the park.

We are looking for other neighborhood residents to write about area issues for this website. Please post a comment here if interested.

SRPNA helps kids get bikes for holidays

2006-12-01T15:32:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Two neighborhood/Ward 5 kids were selected by SRPNA to get bikes this season from the Latin American Social Club. Steve Leal helped extend the offer. Thanks to both.

Healthy neighborhood effort in Santa Rita Park

2006-11-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT MEETING on this: Mon, Nov 27, Sam Lena Library, 6-7:30pm. Also Wed., Dec 6, Woods Library, 3455 N. 1st Av.

More info: 626.5293

“Building Healthy Neighborhoods” in Tucson

How is your health and the health of your family impacted by your home and your neighborhood?

What makes a “healthy home” or a “healthy neighborhood” or a “healthy lifestyle”?

The Drachman Institute’s Community Outreach Planning and Design Center (COPC) has received a grant to explore these questions with the residents and neighborhoods of the Tucson Empowerment Zone and selected neighborhoods to the north and south of the University of Arizona.

The Building Healthy Neighborhood team includes students, staff, and affiliated faculty at the Drachman Institute and College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, and partners in the Colleges of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Management, Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Medicine. This team will work with target area neighborhood residents to provide information and assistance to improve the health of neighborhood families and individuals, their homes and their neighborhoods.

This project effort will build on existing partnerships between the Drachman Institute and other team members and the target area neighborhoods, non-profit organizations, area businesses, and the governments of the City of South Tucson, City of Tucson, and Pima County.

Specific project activities will be determined by the interests of the participants but may include:

Activities to address chronic diseases associated with obesity, poor nutrition, and unhealthy lifestyle choices;

Activities to address the design, affordability, sustainability, and health impacts associated with housing;

Screening mechanisms for chronic diseases associated with obesity, poor nutrition, and unhealthy lifestyle choices;

Designing infrastructure (greenways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, parks, etc.) in neighborhoods and connecting neighborhoods to promote exercise and healthy lifestyles among children and adults;

Developing policies and strategies to improve, support, and maintain the quality, design, affordability, and health-enhancing attributes of regionally-appropriate housing and neighborhood development.

While the team will work directly with neighborhoods that will be selected based on a demonstrated interest in establishing a neighborhood project, the team’s effort will also include a continuing series of workshops and other events in the target area over the next two years. Contact the Drachman Institute for more information, 626-5293.

“Edificando Vecindades Sanas” en Tucsón

¿Qué impacto tiene su hogar y su vecindad en su salud y la de su familia?

¿Qué es lo que constituye un “hogar saludable” o una “vecindad sana” o una “manera de vivir sanamente”?

El Centro de Extensión a la Comunidad de Planificación y Diseño del Instituto Drachman (Drachman Institute’s Community Outreach Planning and Design Center) (COPC) ha recibido una dádiva para explorar estas preguntas con los residentes y las vecindades de la Zona de Otorgamiento de Poderes de Tucsón y seleccionó vecindades al norte y al sur de la Universidad de Arizona.

Los colaboradores de Edificando Vecindades Saludables incluyen estudiantes, personal, y a docentes afiliados con el Instituto Drachman y el Colegio de Arquitectura y Arquitectura de Jardinería Ornamental, y socios en el Colegio de Salud Pública, Ciencias Sociales y de Conductismo, Administración, Ciencias Agrícolas y de Vida, y Medicina. Estos colaboradores trabajarán con residentes en la zona-objetivo para proveer información y asistencia para mejorar la salud de las familias e individuos, sus hogares y sus vecindades.

Este esfuerzo del proyecto edificará en compañerismos existentes entre el Instituto Drachman y otros miembros de la colaboración y las vecindades de la zona-objetivo, agencias sin fines de lucro, negocios en el área, y los cuerpos gubernamentales de la Ciudad de Sur Tucson, Ciudad de Tucson, and el Condado Pima.

Actividades Específicas del Proyecto serán determinadas por los intereses de los participantes pero podrían incluir:

Actividades para poner atención a enfermedades crónicas asociadas con la obesidad, la mala nutrición, y decisiones insalubres de la vida cotidiana;

Actividades para poner atención al diseño, poder afrontar los gastos, poder sostenerse, e impactos a la salud asociados con las viviendas;

Técnicas para selección de enfermedades crónicas asociadas con la obesidad, la mala nutrición, y decisiones insalubres de la vida cotidiana;

Diseñar infraestructura (vías frondosos, senderos para peatones y ciclistas, parques, etc.) en vecindades y vecindades anexas para promover ejercicio y maneras de vivir saludablemente entre los niños y los adultos;

Desarrollar políticas y estrategias para mejorar, apoyar, y mantener la calidad, el diseño, poder afrontar los gastos, y atributos que ayuden a la salud de viviendas apropiadas a la región y desarrollo de la vecindad.

Mientras los colaboradores trabajan directamente con las vecindades que serán seleccionadas y demostraron interés en establecer un proyecto en la vecindad, el esfuerzo de los colaboradores incluirá una serie continua de talleres y otros eventos en la zona-objetivo en el paso de los siguientes dos años. Comuníquese con el Instituto Drachman para más información, al 626-5293.

Next neighborhood meeting is Dec. 6

2006-11-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

SOUTH TUCSON -- The next meeting of the Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Assoc. will be Wed., Dec 6, 5:30-6:45pm at the Sam Lena library on S. 6th Av.

We'll be discussing current plans, needs and actions.

Meetings are first Wed., same time and place each month.

Secs. minutes from Nov. SRPNA meeting

2006-11-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

1 NOVEMBER 2006
SANTA RITA PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETING
Location: Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ

MINUTES:

Six person quorum present of SRPNA members, and sign-in sheet passed. New officers elected:
PRESIDENT: Mr. Daniel Patterson

VICE-PRESIDENT: Mr. Oscar Rendon
SECRETARY: Ms. Viki Rambo
TREASURER: Mrs. Margaret Roomes

Meeting called to order by our newly elected President, Mr. Daniel Patterson.

GUEST SPEAKER: Sergeant Zimmerling, Tucson Police reported "successes" and continued efforts to rid our neighborhood of drug dealers and "non- neighborly" conduct within the boundaries of: 22nd St., to the North; I-10, the West; 26th St., the South; and the Railroad tracks, the East boundary.

The Southside Presbyterian Church, Primavera Foundation and Soup Kitchen who deal with the homeless are participating successfully: introducing a Lottery System for Workers at the Pres.Church and a proposed fence to appease neighbor to the South. Evictions: focused at 201 and 216 E. 25th St. and the apartments at 1300 S. 2nd. Reported: officers are "educating" to address our specific needs.

Sergeant Webster, present, will assume Sgt. Zimerling's duties within this area after the press conference at the Southside Presbyterian Church, November 4, 2006, at 3:00pm.

GUEST SPEAKER: Mrs. Marilyn Robinson, Associate Director of the Drachman Institute, announced: "Building Healthy Neighborhoods." SRPN is eligible for this granted assistance. Selection will be based on need and involvement of the members of the community. Three neighborhoods will be selected City-wide. Hand-outs were provided with meeting times and locations for us to attend: Monday, Nov. 20; Monday, Nov. 27, and Wed., Dec. 6, 2006. SRPNA members present plan participation at one of the above meeting. More information is available at www.DrachmanInstitute.org.

SPEAKER: Mr. Abe Gonzalez Marques, Council Aide to Steve Leal, Ward 5, reported the clean-up of the Arroyo south of 22nd St. is put on hold until the "hot- spots" are dealt with; areas defined by human infections and dead birds found with the West Nile Virus.

It was reported by Sgt. Zimmerling, a 10 yr. old playing with Roman Candles from Ochoa School is responsible for setting ablaze the just installed playground equipment at 9th Ave. and 25th St. Investigation of the use of the "fire-retardant bark", the fire, at this Pocket Park is on-going.

Semi-trucks traveling West of the railroad tracks on 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th St. is addressed by Mr. Daniel Patterson; presented to Mr. Jim Glock, Director of the Transportation Department of Tucson; resulting with TDOT making maps to resolve this issue in the Millville, Armory Park, and Santa Rita Park neighborhoods. Maps are anticipated for review in 1-2 months.

Article II., Officers, of the Bylaws of the SRPNA read by Mr. Oscar Rendon, and the need for a Neighborhood Watch Leader (NWL) presented.

Meeting was adjourned with a round of applause for the newly elected Executive Board of SRPNA.

New site for Santa Rita Park neighborhood

2006-11-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

TUCSON -- Santa Rita Park is just south of downtown, between 19th & 25th Sts. and 6th Av. & Nogales line railroad tracks.

It is my intention to make this an interactive site for our neighborhood.

Daniel R. Patterson
President
Santa Rita Park Neighborhood Association