Blog for Arizona

I.C.E. out of Tucson for good
2026-01-23 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Phoenix) | 3711 E. Broadway Blvd., 3711 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, Arizona, 85716
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Time

Friday, January 23

12 – 2pm MST

Location

north side of Dodge and Broadway, north of Reid Park

3711 E Broadway BlvdTucson, AZ 85716Map

About this event

“Wednesday, January 7th, an American citizen was killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This killing is part of a broader pattern of unchecked violence, impunity, and abuse carried out by federal immigration enforcement agencies against members of our communities.

A broad coalition of groups across the country is calling for a coordinated Ice Out For Good actions on Friday, January 23rd in solidarity for Minnesota, and to demand accountability, honor the life lost, and make visible the human cost of ICE’s actions.

A core principle behind all ICE Out For Good events is a commitment to nonviolent action and no civil disobedience. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values, and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events. All events should be held in public spaces or on public property. Indivisible is managing data and communications with participants. By registering, you agree to receive info from Indivisible about the event, receive communications via e-mail or SMS message from Indivisible, and receive any other updates and opportunities to take action or support ICE OUT FOR GOOD partner organizations. You also agree to have any data entered in this registration collected by Indivisible. Indivisible will treat your data according to our organization’s applicable privacy policy: https://indivisible.org/privacy-policy”

Protest at Juan Ciscomani’s office
2026-01-24 08:00 - 11:00 | Congressman Juan Ciscomani’s office, 1636 N. Swan Rd., Tucson, Arizona, 85712
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

SATURDAY PROTEST OUTSIDE CISCOMANI’S OFFICE

“January 24 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Join us on Saturdays at 9AM where we be protesting peacefully outside Rep. Ciscomani’s office. With our presence and our signs, we will tell him to properly represent his constituency, and uphold the constitution! We will have extra signs; chillin’ chairs; and a letter-writing station for you to write a letter to Ciscomani and deliver it personally to his office! Indivisible Tucson’s Pressure Ciscomani Team and others will have information tables at these events. Please join us to protest Rep. Ciscomani’s voting record and hypocritical messaging. RSVP if you like, but no need to – just show up any Saturday morning!

Join the FUN – https://youtube.com/shorts/NMwCDwp55aQ

See you there!”

Meet LD 19 Dem candidates for AZ Senate & House
2026-01-24 15:00 - 16:00 | Continental Plaza, 210 W. Continental Road, Green Valley, Arizona, 85614
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

All three Democrats are political newcomers, trying to defeat 3 Republican incumbents, LD 19 State Senator David Gowan, House Reps. Gail Griffin and Lupe Diaz in 2026.

Against the Wall talk
2026-01-25 17:30 - 19:00 | Historic Y, 738 N. 5th Avenue, Tucson, Arizona, 85705
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Against the Wall: From Border Patrol Agent to Immigrant Rights Activist

Location:

The Historic Y

738 N 5th Ave

Tucson, AZ 85705

Map Links:

OSMGoogleApple

Organizer: Goldman Immigration, Libres Fronterizas, Coalición de Derechos Humanos

“Join us as acclaimed author Jenn Budd discusses her journey from Border Patrol Agent to Immigrant Rights Activist. Free admission. This event will be in English with Spanish interpretation.”

Jonathan Treble, candidate for CD 1 at DGT
2026-01-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Please join us for a lively discussion with Jonathan Treble about his campaign for the primary nomination for the Democratic Party to run for the now open seat in Arizona’s CD1.

You Must Register in Advance for this Event:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/npHIyMMaQRqGWWmTrKbX8A

Jonathan Treble is a Democrat, public school dad, and small business owner with middle-class and union roots. After putting himself through college and becoming the first in his family to graduate, Jonathan started a business in his living room and went door to door to scale it into one of the fastest-growing companies in the country, reflecting his commitment to green practices and veteran hiring. After a major health crisis and a battle with insurance, he’s running for Congress to expand access to affordable healthcare, reverse Trump-era cuts, and protect Medicare and Medicaid.”

Trebele’s campaign website: https://trebleforaz.com/

Carolyn’s note: CD 1 in Phoenix is represented by long term Republican David Schweikert, who has been in Congress for 15 years. Former Az House Rep. Democrat Dr. Amish Shah is also running for this seat in the Dem primary in 2026. Shah ran for this seat in Nov. 2024, got 48% of the vote then.

CD 1 voter registration stats from Oct. 2025: Dems 144, 250; Republicans 207,357, Others 181,064.

The Water Below: a community dialog
2026-01-29 16:00 - 17:30 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

The Water Below : A Community Dialog

January 29th 4:00 – 5:30 PM

Virtual program via ZOOM

“Curious about current groundwater in communities across the Verde Valley? Concerned about future capacity to serve northern Arizona’s rural cities and towns? Verde Valley relies on groundwater and many private and public wells withdraw from the aquifer.

Join the League of Women Voters of Northern Arizona in a focused conversation to examine the critical issue of groundwater management with guest speakers:

• Chris Kuzdas, Environmental Defense Fund

Nikki Check, Yavapai County Supervisor—District 2

Registration will be available through Yavapai College’s OLLI program and is free.

Course Unique ID: 0741

Class Title: The Water Below- A Community Dialogue

Register

For more information, contact LWVNAZ at lwvnaz@gmail.com.”

AZPM Screening and panel discussion on The Librarians
2026-01-30 18:30 - 20:00 | UA ENR2 Building, 1064 E. Lowell St., Tucson, Arizona, 85721
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Librarians emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and our First Amendment Rights.

This event is free and open to the public. If you are able, we welcome a suggested donation of $10 to help support AZPM community events.

In Texas, the Krause List targets 850 books focused on race and LGBTQia+ stories – triggering sweeping book bans across the U.S. at an unprecedented rate. As tensions escalate, librarians connect the dots from heated school and library board meetings nationwide to lay bare the underpinnings of extremism fueling the censorship efforts. Despite facing harassment, threats, and laws aimed at criminalizing their work – the librarians’ rallying cry for freedom to read is a chilling cautionary tale.

A panel discussion will follow this film.

Panelists include:

Rebecca Ballenger – Associate Director World of Words, College of Education, University of Arizona

Kate DeMeester-Lane – Library Services Manager, Pima County Public Library

Paula Maez – Public Services, Pima County Library

Matthew Landon- Workforce and Economic Development Librarian, Pima County Library

We encourage attendees to bring a new or gently used K–6th grade book to support of the TUSD Educational Enrichment Foundation.”

RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-azpm-for-a-screening-and-panel-discussion-of-the-librarians-tickets-1978317083652?aff=oddtdtcreator

AZ Women in Labor town hall
2026-01-31 14:00 - 15:00 | CWA PHEW Local 7000, 7820 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, Arizona, 85710
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Tucson Peace Center's Vegetarian Feast
2026-01-31 18:00 - 20:00 | Southside Presbyterian Church, 317 W. 23rd St., Tucson, Arizona, 85713
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Join the Tucson Peace Center at a Vegetarian Feast

January 31, 2026 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

January 31, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.Southside Presbyterian Church, 317 W. 23rd St.

“Join Us for Conversation, Good Food, Music, Guest Speaker, and More!Benefits the Tucson Peace CenterMore Info will be posted soon.“

Two virtual RTA Next Q & A sessions
2026-02-03 12:00 - 18:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

RTA Next special election coming up on March 10, to vote for or against 1/2 cents sales tax increase for the continuation of the current 20 year RTA Plan. Will be Propositions 418 and 419 on that ballot.

Two virtual RTA Next Q&A sessions coming up on Feb. 3 to learn more. First is from noon to 1 p.m. Register here. Second is from 5 to 6 p.m. Register here.

Info at: https://rtanext.com/ for this $2.67 billion plan.

“The Regional Transportation Authority, a state-established taxing district within Pima County, finalized a new 20-year regional transportation plan (RTA Next) to improve the transportation network in the greater Tucson region and enhance our quality of life.

The $2.67 billion investment plan will support reduced congestion, improved mobility, enhanced and expanded transit, environmental protections, bicycle and pedestrian improvements and pavement rehabilitation.”

Early ballots go out on Feb. 11, 2026.

Southern Arizona Heat Summit 2026
2026-02-07 08:00 - 17:00 | UA ENR2 Building, 1064 E. Lowell St., Tucson, Arizona, 85721
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Thank you for your interest in attending the Southern Arizona Heat Summit 2026!

This event will bring together local and regional partners to enhance our community’s resilience to extreme heat.

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

Location: Environment & Natural Resources 2 Building (ENR2), University of Arizona

Registration: Begins at 8:00 a.m.

We are excited to have you join us for this important discussion.

Please complete the following registration form to secure your spot at the Summit.”

https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/65953dec5b5a4d4290c9793b06c023cd

Fighting Voter Supression Efforts with SOS Adrian Fontes
2026-02-09 17:30 - 19:00 | Cottonwood Rec Center, 150 S. 6th St., Cottonwood, Arizona, 86326
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Fighting Voter Suppression Efforts a special Voter Education Program with Secretary of State Adrian Fontes on Monday February 9, 5:30 – 7 PM Cottonwood Rec Center 150 S 6th St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326 Register Now

Adrian Fontes has served as the Arizona Secretary of State since January 2022 (sic 2023). One of his primary duties is the oversight and administration of secure and accurate elections. In that role he has seen increasing efforts to gut early voting. The safety, security and convenience of mail-in voting is something a vast majority of Arizonans can agree upon. Mail in ballots are used by nearly 80% of Arizona Voters. Learn about his efforts to fight this and other forms of voter suppression. “

“The beauty of American democracy is that it levels the playing field. Every eligible voter is given one vote that holds the same weight as everyone else”-SOS Adrian FontesCarolyn’s note: Fontes is up for re-election in 2026, having served for one term as SOS.

Wards 2 & 4 info session on RTA Next
2026-02-09 17:30 - 19:00 | Ward 2 Council office, 7820 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, Arizona, 85710
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“The Regional Transportation Authority invites you to attend an upcoming RTA Next Plan Q&A Session to learn more about the proposed $2.67 billion regional transportation plan and tax that will be on the ballot in March for Pima County voter consideration.

Feb. 9 – Hosted by Ward 2 and Ward 45:30 to 7 p.m.City of Tucson Ward 2 office7820 E. Broadway, TucsonOpen to the public”

Learn about the RTA Next $2.67 billion regional transportation plan

Carolyn’s note: RTA Next will be on the Pima County ballot in a special election on March 10, 2026. Early ballots go out on Feb. 11. Ward 3 forum is scheduled on Jan. 22 by that office.

LWVGT Understanding the 2026 to 2046 Regional Transportation Plan (RTA Next)
2026-02-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Pima County-Understanding the 2026-2046 Regional Transportation Plan

About this event

“The Regional Transportation Plan (RTA) for Pima County will be on the ballot in 2026. John Bernal and Mike Ortega will present information about the plan.

Date and Time

Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 12:00 PM until 1:30 PM

Videoconference information will be provided in an email once registration is complete.

Register Now

Event Contact(s)

Linda L Maccabe

Category

LWVGT Public Event

Registration Info

Registration is required

Registration modifications are permitted until Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Registration cancellations will be accepted until Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Number of People Who Will Attend

Have you previously registered for an event or are you on our mailing list? Click here to search“

Everyone

(No Fee)

Register Now

Carolyn’s note: RTA Next will be on the ballot for a special election on March 10, 2026. Early ballots go out Feb. 11, so be aware as this is a timely forum.

Environmental Day at AZ Capitol 2026
2026-02-11 08:30 - 14:00 | Arizona State Capitol, 1700 W Washington St., Phoenix, AZ, 85007, United States
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Please join Sierra Club, Chispa Arizona, Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, AZ Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Advocates, Poder Latinx, AZ Youth Climate Coalition, Arizona Interfaith Power and Light, Mi Familia en Acción, Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE), and many other groups for our annual lobby day at the Arizona Capitol. Meet with your legislators, hear from great speakers, and connect with others who are doing advocacy work both inside and outside the Arizona Legislature. RSVP so we have enough materials, can put you in a team for legislative meetings, and can plan for food. This year’s theme is “People Power for the Planet!”

Registration begins at 8:30 AM. The program will run from 9:30 AM – 11:45 AM. Meetings with legislators will be throughout the day. There will be informational tables and opportunities for action as well. Please check those out in the morning and during the lunch break. At 12:30 PM, we will go inside the Legislature and sit in the galleries for introductions from the floor.

We will be holding some trainings and briefings prior to the day. Let us know if there is something in particular that you would like to learn.

Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.

Thank you!

Signup Instructions: Sign up to get more information.”

https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?id=701Po00001HpjTvIAJ&formcampaignid=701Po000019vMfuIAE&data=4bbebe5e68e2f13fad8d3844f74508e662a07051ec591d6fa342a2876396ffa0691088d0423458d69b8a43984973e8e5

Event Organizers:Sandy Bahr sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org

AZ Statehood Day open house
2026-02-14 10:00 - 15:00 | Arizona History Mueum, 949 E. 2nd St., Tucson, Arizona, 85719
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Join the Arizona Historical Society on Saturday, February 14, 2026 for an open house 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Arizona History Museum in Tucson to commemorate Arizona’s Statehood Day. The museum will offer free admission and activities–fun for history lovers of all ages! No need to register!”

Carolyn’s note: trivia question, what year on Feb. 14 did Arizona become a state? scroll down for answer.

Answer: 1912.

Community Sing
2026-02-15 14:30 - 16:00 | Pima Friends Meeting House, 931 N. 5th Avenue, Tucson, Arizona, 85706
By Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Dear song lovers

You may argue that all songs are songs of love of one sort or another.

Valentine’s Day focuses on the need of humans to express their love to and for each other. Keeping lines of communication alive with possibility,

So the Free Community SING for February will explore the different ways love is sung about… the funny and foolish, the careless and helpless, the false and true. All reaching for the truest love of all.

I look forward to sing with you with all our heart.

Keep the beat,”

Ted

FREE COMMUNITY SING

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

2:30-4 PM

PIMA FRIENDS MEETING ROOM

931 N 5TH AVE

info:520 628 9616 – ITZABOUTIME

Ward 6 Council open house
2026-02-17 16:00 - 19:00 | Ward 6 Council office, 3202 E. 1st St., Tucson, Arizona, 85716
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Save the Date! Ward 6 Open House

Join us at the Ward 6 Office (3202 E 1st St.) on Tuesday, February 17th, 4-7pm for an informal Open House and celebration of the Lunar Year! More details to come…

Carolyn’s note: Ward 6 office is on the SE corner of Anderson Blvd. x E. 1st St. in Miramonte neighborhood in Tucson. New Councilmember for Ward 6 is half Chinese American Miranda Schubert, who was elected in Nov. 2025.

Happy New Year of the Horse.

Tucson Ward 6 City Councilmember Miranda Schubert

”What the River Knows” film
2026-02-17 19:00 - 21:30 | Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85716, United States
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 AT 7:00PM

GENERAL ADMISSION: $10

PASSES NOT ACCEPTED

“Following the film screening, the event will conclude with a panel discussion and audience Q+A.

Glen Canyon Institute, in collaboration with Watershed Management Group, presents What the River Knows, a Good Intentions Paving Co. documentary exploring the reemergence of Glen Canyon from the receding waters of Lake Powell reservoir. At the same time that we are met with the need to redesign our systems of water management in the West, we are presented with the opportunity to restore one of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.What the River Knows explores this unique reflection point in a centuries-long history, weaving together past and present to reveal a new way forward for the Colorado River. (Dir. by Diego Riley & Will Buckley, 2025, USA, 35 mins., Not Rated)

This is a Community Rental by the Glen Canyon Institute.“

2 HR 0 MIN | NR

Released 2025

What The River Knows

Asian Lunar New Year festival
2026-02-21 10:00 - 18:00 | Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Rd., Tucson, Arizona, 85704
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Carolyn’s note: This Asian Lunar New Year is celebrated in February by Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, but we Japanese celebrate on January 1st like most other people. It’s the Year of the Horse for all of us in the Asian zodiac world (12 year cycles).

I was a member of the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center for over 16 years, from 2008 to 2025, where I played Hong Kong Simplified mah jong. I also took classes in tai chi, line dancing, exercise.

All info at tucsonchinese.org.

Pageant to the People with Comedian Corinne Fisher
2026-02-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St., Tucson, Arizona, 85701
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Join comedian & former NYC Mayoral Candidate Corinne Fisher for a town hall, talent show & pageant featuring local Tucson elected officials Mayor Regina Romero, Councilmember Paul Cunningham & Councilmember Miranda Schubert.Bring your questions about local issues & get ready to see who the most talented member of our city government is. All proceeds benefitting the Pima County Democratic Party. This event will sell out so make sure you get your tickets ASAP at the link below!”

Click Here to Get Your Tickets!

The Rule of Law in Arizona with attorney Amelia Craig Cramer
2026-02-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

February 27, 2026 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Amelia Craig Cramer: Criminal Prosecutions and the Rule of Law In Arizona

Webinar

“Join us on February 27 at noon (MST) for special guest Amelia Craig Cramer for a discussion of the state of the rule of law in Arizona and the U.S.

Amelia Craig Cramer is past President of the State Bar of Arizona and retired Chief Deputy Pima County Attorney. Following her retirement, Ms. Cramer served on the Arizona Supreme Court’s Task Force on Ethics for Government Lawyers and on the APAAC Public Law Practice Work Group. Before joining the Pima County Attorney’s Office, during the first half of her legal career, Ms. Cramer was a civil litigator at large, private law firms: Baker & Hostetler in Washington D.C.; Heller, Ehrman in San Francisco, and Brown & Bain in Tucson. Additionally, she was a leader of two nonprofit legal organizations dedicated to LGBT civil rights: managing attorney of the western regional office of Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund in Los Angeles; and executive director of GLBT Advocates and Defenders in Boston. Also, Ms. Cramer taught law briefly as an adjunct professor at U.C. Berkeley’s School of Law and as a guest lecturer at other law schools. Following her retirement, Ms. Cramer volunteered for four years with the NAACP, serving as its Arizona State lobbyist and vice president and criminal justice committee chair of its Tucson Branch. Ms. Cramer is a graduate of Dartmouth College and Stanford Law School.”

To sign up for this webinar: https://secularaz.org/single-event/craig-cramer/

Arizona List Annual event in Tucson & Phoenix
2026-02-28 10:30 - 18:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Arizona List 22nd Annual Event

Celebrating 22 Years of Electing Progressive Women

“Join us on Saturday, February 28, 2026, for Arizona List’s 22nd Annual Event, a statewide celebration of the women changing Arizona’s future. This year we’re proud to welcome María Teresa Kumar, founding president of Voto Latino and a national leader in civic engagement, along with other special guests.

Come together with allies, candidates, and community leaders as we honor over two decades of progress.” Tickets are on sale now!

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Tucson Annual Event10:30 AM – 12:00 PMFox Tucson Theatre17 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701

TUCSON TICKETS

Phoenix Annual Event4:30 PM – 6:00 PMOrpheum Theatre Phoenix203 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003

PHOENIX TICKETS

42nd Annual Tucson Peace Fair & Music Festival 2026
2026-02-28 11:00 - 16:00 | Reid Park, 900 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, AZ, 85716, United States
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“The 42nd Annual Tucson Peace Fair & Music Festival will take placeon Saturday, February 28, 2026from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.in Reid Park

This free event is Arizona’s largest gathering of Peace, Social Justice, and Environmental groups.

There will be member group tables, live music, food, entertainment, children’s activities, and much more.”

42nd Annual Tucson Peace Fair & Music Festival

13th Annual LWVGT Issues and Eggs breakfast forum
2026-03-06 08:00 - 10:30 | Doubletree by Hilton – Reid Park, 445 S. Alvernon Way, Tucson, Arizona, 85711
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Issues & Eggs

About this event

Issues & Eggs is the LWV of Greater Tucson’s Annual Fundraiser. A panel of experts will discuss Truth and Trust in Media:Navigating Today’s News and Information while breakfast is served. Registration will open soon.

Please consider making a Donation!

Interested in being a Sponsor? Download and complete the 2026 LWVGT Issues Eggs Sponsorship Form

Date and Time

Friday, March 6, 2026, 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM

Location

DoubleTree Hotel445 S Alvernon WayTucson, AZ 85711USA(520) 881-4200

For more details and to register visit:https://www.lwvtucson.org/issuesandeggs

PROGRAM“13th Annual LWVGT Issues & Eggs Breakfast Forum.Ticket includes an informative panel discussion, delicious hot buffet breakfast, and your first raffle ticket.

RAFFLEBring your cash to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win great prizes including golf, local art, books, wine, and more!

GUEST PANELTim Steller, Moderator – Columnist, Arizona Daily StarChelsea Curtis – Reporter, AZ LuminariaDiana Daley – Associate Dean, U of A College of Information ScienceMaritza Felix – Founder, Connecta AZPatty Machelor – Assist. Professor of Practice, U of A School of Journalism

Proceeds from this event help support the League’s work to increase understanding of major public policy issues through education and advocacy, registering voters, and providing voters with election information through voter guides and candidate forums.”

Event Contact(s)

Cheri SprengerChair

Category

LWVGT Public Event

Registration Info

Registration is required and it opens Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Registration cancellations will be accepted until Friday, February 27, 2026 at 5:00 PM

Empty Bowls 2026
2026-03-07 11:00 - 14:00 | Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Rd., Tucson, Arizona, 85704
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Event by Interfaith Community Services

Tucson Chinese Cultural Center

Duration: 3 hr

Public · Anyone on or off Facebook

Join us for Empty Bowls 2026, Interfaith Community Services’ biggest community fundraiser, on Saturday, March 7, at the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center (1288 W. River Road). This inspiring event brings the community together to support those in need. Tickets go on sale in January 2026. For more information, visit https://icstucson.org/emptybowls/

RTA Next special election
2026-03-10 06:00 - 19:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“The public is invited to review the Regional Transportation Authority’s $2.67 billion regional transportation plan, approved by the RTA Board on Aug. 25, 2025, for future voter consideration. The final RTA Next plan was completed with input from RTA members and the public gathered through surveys, open houses, meetings, and submitted comments.

The board has set an election date of March 10, 2026, when voters in Pima County will have the ultimate say on the plan.

The 20-year plan includes five elements:

Roadway (multimodal) Corridor

Arterial Reconstruction

Transit

Safety, ADA and Active Transportation

Environmental

The RTA is a state-established taxing district within the boundaries of Pima County. The RTA’s current 20-year plan is funded by a half-cent sales tax. Both were approved by voters in 2006. The new plan and funding investment for another 20 years will require voter approval for both to go into effect.

The RTA, which was established in 2004, has invested more than $1.6 billion in more than 1,000 transportation improvements across the greater Tucson region.”

RTA Next Final Plan (pdf) – Approved Aug. 25, 2025

RTA Next Plan Comment Form

Carolyn’s note: RTA brought changes to this region, with passage of this original 20 year plan in May, 2006, funded by a half cent sales increase. RTA Next wants an extension of that same sales tax. The biggest projects in Tucson were the 4 mile Sun link streetcar, widening of E. Broadway Blvd. and the continued widening of E. Grant Rd.

Prop 418 and 419 on the March 10 ballot.

“Proposition 418 – RTA PlanSubmission deadline: December 10, 2025Do you approve the regional transportation plan for Pima County?

A “YES” vote indicates your approval of the proposed regional transportation plan as developed by the Regional Transportation Authority of Pima County and described in the election materials.

A “NO” vote indicates your disapproval of the proposed regional transportation plan.

Proposition 419 – RTA TaxSubmission deadline: December 10, 2025Do you favor the levy of a transaction privilege (sales) tax for regional transportation purposes in Pima County?

A “YES” vote has the effect of imposing a transaction privilege (sales) tax in Pima County for twenty years to provide funding for the transportation projects contained in the regional transportation plan.

A “NO” vote has the effect of rejecting the transaction privilege (sales) tax for transportation purposes in Pima County.

View the full text of Proposition 418 PDF and Proposition 419 PDF.”

Early ballots go out on Feb. 11.

Tucson Japanese Festival 2026
2026-03-21 10:00 - 16:00 | Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Rd., Tucson, Arizona, 85704
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Our Southern Arizona Japanese Cultural Coalition festival, which started in January 2014 (as a New Year’s mochi pounding event), continued to 2020 till the Covid-19 pandemic came to town. We took a 3 year hiatus, then started up again in 2024 and 2025, moving the festival to March.

I’m the Editor of the website, www.southernazjapan.org (since January 2013) and publicity chair of this festival. Join us again in March 2026 for all things Japanese in Southern Arizona. Admission is still only $5 for adults, free for children 5 years and younger. Celebrate the Year of the Horse!

Spring Cyclovia Tucson 2026
2026-04-12 09:00 - 15:00 | Arizona
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

Save The Date!

“Thank you all for such a car-free carefree Cyclovia this Fall! Save the datefor our next Cyclovia on April 12th, 2026.

Join us in April as we activate three miles of car-free city streets, open to people of all ages and abilities. Walk, bike, roll, skate, and enjoy neighborhoods, participate in free activities, support local businesses, and connect with one another. During Cyclovia the streets are yours!“

Next Cyclovia: April 12th, 2026

https://www.cycloviatucson.org

Stay tuned for route.

Tucson Juneteenth celebration 2026
2026-06-20 18:00 - 22:00 | Kino Sports Complex, 2500 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, Arizona, 85713
by Carolyn Classen, blogger

“Tucson, we’re calling in the helpers, the do-ers, the legacy builders.

The Tucson Juneteenth Festival is growing, blooming, and stepping into a new season — and we can’t do it without community hands guiding the way.

If your spirit pulls you toward service… if you believe in honoring our history while shaping tomorrow… if you’re ready to be part of something bigger than yourself…

we want you on the team.

We’re recruiting volunteers across every committee — from education to logistics, entertainment to fundraising, vendors to social media. Whether you love teaching, organizing, uplifting artists, welcoming guests, or just making sure things run smooth, there’s a place for you.

Your time becomes tradition. Your service becomes legacy.

Join us, and let’s build the 2025 Festival together.

To sign up or learn more, drop a comment or message us directly.

The gates are open, fam — come be part of the movement.

email info@tucsonjune19.org or go to:

https://forms.gle/TqMy3T87DtNmakdd8 to sign up.”
