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7 pages about Life in Tubac!
WELCOME to TUBAC WEEKLY !
See TABS at the top & the bottom of page for the SECTIONS TO EXPLORE.
Tubac Weekly is in its 4th year online . It serves as aCommunity Journal that posts Local news, Events, Classes, Cultural information & Interviews.
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Editor #310-924-0363
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VOTING IN SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
Santa Cruz County Voters: Track Your Ballot and Return It Early
Nogales, AZ, August 27, 2026 - The Santa Cruz County Recorder’s Office is reminding voters to plan ahead for the November General Election by completing their ballot, returning it promptly, tracking it, and using official election resources for accurate information, including BallotTrax sign-up and official ballot drop box locations.
Arizona offers several tools to help voters access reliable election information. BallotBot, available through azsos.gov and Arizona.Vote, provides 24/7 answers to frequently asked election questions in English and Spanish.
BallotBot can help voters find information about:
- Voter registration and deadlines
- Early voting and voting by mail
- Ballot tracking
- Voting locations and hours
- Election dates and deadlines
- Voter identification requirements
- General election procedures
BallotBot is intended to supplement assistance from county election officials and the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office. For questions specific to Santa Cruz County, voters may be directed to the Recorder’s Office for additional assistance.
Voters who plan to vote by mail are encouraged to sign up for BallotTrax to receive notifications as their ballot moves through the process, including the day it mails to them, and after the voter completes the ballot and deposits it in a ballot drop box or with the USPS, and is received by election officials and accepted.
Early voting begins and early ballots will be mailed out on October 7, 2026. If you are registered for an Early Ballot and do not receive your Early Ballot by October 14, 2026, you may contact the Registrar’s Office to discuss your options.
If you do not receive your ballot as expected, contact the Recorder’s Office promptly.
Once you receive your ballot, vote and return it as soon as possible. Voters may return their ballot by mail or use one of Santa Cruz County’s official ballot drop box locations.
PERFORMING at the FOX Theatre in TUCSON
ALTAN
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13
SHOW 7:30PM | DOORS 6:30PM
Celebrating 40 years on the road, Altan has brought Donegal's traditional Irish music to legendary stages including Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and Glastonbury. Their 2024 album "Donegal" (Compass Records) continues a legacy that began when they became the first Irish traditional band signed to a major label, Virgin Records, in 1995. Founding members Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Ciaran Curran, and Mark Kelly are joined by accordionist Martin Tourish and newest member Clare Friel. Having collaborated with artists like Dolly Parton and John Prine, Altan remains a defining force in Celtic music.
Sign up SOON !
oct 24th
Oct 22
The Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council next public meeting is on Monday,Oct 12, at 9AM (@ TCC)
TUBAC WEEKLY RECOMMENDS ALL CITIZENS TO JOIN ($15- YEAR)
https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/G57jpwlbjzDlfL3aNoxbOg
ABOUT THE SANTA CRUZ VALLWY CITIZENS COUNCIL
The Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council (SCVCC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to informing and educating its members about local and regional issues that impact the interests of the community. The Council also advocates on behalf of its members regarding these concerns, striving to ensure their voices are heard and their interests protected.
Established in 1984, the SCVCC has been a vigilant watchdog group for the citizens of Tubac and its surrounding areas. The organization depends on the commitment of its Board of Directors, District Representatives, and members to safeguard the local environment and preserve the unique qualities that make the area an exceptional place to live.
Over the years, the Citizens Council has made a lasting impact on the character and
future of the community. Through its active participation and advocacy, the Council has successfully addressed a variety of important issues, helping to influence decisions and outcomes that benefit residents. Key initiatives and projects include:
Tubac Dark Skies Initiative
Wildland Fire Management Plan
Sinclair Gas Station
Tubac Entrance Park
Unisource Santa Cruz County Redundancy Plan
Santa Cruz County Candidate Forum
New Tubac Barrio Development
Membership and Participation
The SCVCC meets on the second Monday of every month at 9:00 AM at the Tubac
Community Center. While attendance is not required, it is strongly encouraged. At these meetings, attendees receive monthly reports from county officials and hear from guest speakers on topics vital to Tubac’s well-being.
The Council’s effectiveness depends largely on the strength of its membership. If you are not yet a member, you are encouraged to join. Membership dues are
affordable—$15.00 for individuals and $25.00 for two-person households. Joining is simple; visit our website at yourscvcc.org to learn more about the Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council and to become a member.
2026. Board Members are:
President – Dr. Mary Vanis
First Vice President – Gayle Thomssen
Second Vice President – Andrea Miritello
Secretary – Jim Karp
Treasurer – Teresa Potter
Director at Large – Rich Bohman
Director at Large – Clem Shute
District Representatives and Alternates:
District 1 – Pat Hudson
District 2 – Mindy Maddock
District 3 – Claire McJunkin
District 4 – Steve Page
District 5 – Nancy Valentine and Sally McMahon (Alternate)
District 6 – Jennifer Tougas and Colleen Bathe (Alternate)
District 7 –Barbara Hill and Dennis Eshelman (Alternate)
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News from the County
You can sign up for this newsletter to go into your inbox on the county website-or call Shannon and ask her to add you.
Proposition 417: The Key Facts
Proposition 417 addresses Santa Cruz County’s Annual Expenditure Limitation, a state-established limit on how much the County can legally spend each year. Voters will decide whether to approve a permanent adjustment to the County’s expenditure base.
Key points:
- Arizona’s expenditure limitation formula uses a spending base established in 1979-80.
- Proposition 417 proposes a $1.5 million adjustment to the County’s 1979-80 base used to calculate its annual expenditure limit.
- The measure does not increase property tax rates or sales tax rates and does not create new fees.
- The adjustment would increase the amount of existing County revenues the County is legally permitted to spend, subject to the annual budget process.
- County revenues and expenditures would continue to be reviewed and approved through the County’s regular public budget process.
- A YES vote approves the permanent base adjustment. A NO vote keeps the County’s current expenditure base in place.
Know the Facts about What's on the Ballot
Watch the presentation: https://www.youtube.com/live/pemJ8EbUds0?si=48V27Zqi_gVoEbqi
Visit the website:https://www.santacruzcountyaz.gov/1099/Expenditure-Limitation
Watch the Spanish presentation on We Love Nogales: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AzVhwowdq/
November General Election: What Voters Need to Know
Planning to vote in the November General Election? Learn about important dates, ballot tracking, official drop box locations, and trusted resources to help you prepare and return your ballot on time.
November Election Info & Resources
What's on the November Ballot?
Santa Cruz County voters may see several local measures on their November General Election ballot, depending on where they live. Here is a brief overview:
Santa Cruz County Permanent Base Adjustment
Voters will decide whether Santa Cruz County may permanently adjust its 1979-80 base expenditure limit. A “yes” vote allows the adjustment. A “no” vote keeps the current base expenditure limit in place.
Pima County Joint Technical Education District No. 11 Bonds
Voters within the district will decide whether to authorize $250 million in general obligation bonds. The bonds would be repaid through secondary property taxes. A “yes” vote authorizes the bonds. A “no” vote does not authorize them.
City of Nogales Alternative Expenditure Limitation
Nogales voters will decide whether to extend the City’s alternative expenditure limitation for four fiscal years beginning in fiscal year 2027-28. A “yes” vote continues the alternative limitation based on the City’s budgeted expenditures and available revenues. A “no” vote returns the City to the state-imposed expenditure limitation.
The measures appearing on an individual voter’s ballot will depend on the voter’s residence and applicable voting districts.
For more information, including official ballot language, voting locations, and other important election updates, visit the Santa Cruz County Elections Website.
Protecting Your Tax Dollars
In 2024, former Santa Cruz County Treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr embezzled public funds, prompting a comprehensive review of the County’s financial controls, auditing practices, and internal procedures. Since then, Santa Cruz County has implemented additional safeguards to strengthen oversight, improve transparency, and better protect public funds.
These measures include stronger payment controls, restricted access to financial systems, enhanced banking security, additional reconciliation procedures, independent audits and recurring reviews of internal controls. The County continues to evaluate its financial practices and identify opportunities to strengthen accountability and protect taxpayer dollars.
For a full list of safeguards and controls:
- View these safeguards and controls online.
- Download the pamphlet or pick one up at the County Complex.
New Fuel Facility to Modernize Nogales International Airport
Major improvements are underway at Nogales International Airport on the Patagonia Highway. A new Jet and general aviation fuel storage and bulk dispensing facility is being built. The old fuel “farm” was built many, many years ago with, rumor has it, used tanks and equipment. The new fuel farm will be fully 21st-century, with double-walled tanks to prevent spills, brand-new pumps and meters, and other safety features not even imagined when the old system was installed.
I-19 Frontage Road Project: Public Comments Open Through October 6
Santa Cruz County and the Arizona Department of Transportation recently held a public open house to share information and gather feedback on proposed improvements to the Interstate 19 frontage roads between Ruby Road and Rio Rico Drive.
The project is currently in the design phase and is intended to improve traffic flow and access to businesses, residences, Calabasas School, and emergency services along the corridor.
You still have time to provide input. Public comments will be accepted through October 6. Visit the ADOT Project website to view open house materials, submit a comment, and learn more about the project.
Babocamari Bridge Project Comments Open Through October 14
Santa Cruz County continues to evaluate options for the Babocamari Bridge following a community open house held September 1 in Elgin.
During the open house, residents reviewed project information, learned about the alternatives under consideration, spoke with County staff, and shared comments. The County is considering the public comments received as it continues its project evaluation.
A Partnership That Supports Our Schools
Santa Cruz County Public Works employees were recently recognized by Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District No. 35 for their continued partnership and support of the District.
During a recent Governing Board meeting, Superintendent David Verdugo and the SCV35 Governing Board recognized Public Works team members Howdy Aguilar, Ramon Ibarra, Luis Acedo and Lysette Sanchez for their dedication and service.
Thank you to SCV35 for taking the time to recognize our employees, and to our Public Works team for their hard work and commitment to supporting our schools, students and community.
A Fresh Look for Fall
Fall is bringing a little more color to the Santa Cruz County Complex as crews continue painting the building's exterior. The project is giving the Complex an updated look while helping maintain and protect the facility for years to come.
Thank you to our residents and visitors for your patience and understanding while crews complete the work. We appreciate your cooperation as County offices and services remain accessible throughout the project.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Job Fair & Community Resource Expo
9:00 am - 2:00 pm, October 14, 1500 N. Hohokam Dr., Nogales
ARIZONA@WORK Santa Cruz County will host a free Job Fair & Community Resource Expo to connect job seekers with employment opportunities and community resources. Free round-trip transportation will be available from the Primera Alta Museum, with service beginning at 8:30 a.m.
For more information, call 520-375-7670 or visit santacruzonestop.org.
OCTOBER 5
Last Day to register to vote.
OCTOBER 27
Deadline to mail back your ballot.
OCTOBER 7
Early Voting Begins / Early Ballots are mailed.
OCTOBER 30
Last Day to Vote Early In Person at 7:00 pm.
OCTOBER 23
Last Day to request a Mail in Ballot.
NOVEMBER 3
Election Day
Vote in person or drop off your ballot by 7:00 pm.
Patagonia Fall Festival
9 am, Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11, 325 McKeown Ave, Patagonia
Celebrate 37 years of art, music, and small-town charm at the Patagonia Fall Festival — Arizona’s largest small-town celebration. Under the canopy of cottonwoods, browse 120+ artisan booths, enjoy live music, and savor local food, wine, and family fun in one of Arizona’s most scenic communities. Explore hands-on activities in the South32 Family Zone. To learn more, visit https://www.patagoniafallfestival.org/
Photo courtesy of the Sky Islands Tourism Association
12th Annual Motor Classic Car Show
9:00 am - 2:00 pm, October 31, 1060 Yavapai Dr., Rio Rico
Stop by the Motor Classic Car Show to see more than 60 cars on display, with food, vendors, a costume contest, and trunk-or-treat!.
Trunk or Treat
6:00pm - 8:00pm, Saturday, October 31, Rio Rico Community Center, 391 Avenida Coatimundi, Rio Rico
Join Santa Cruz County, Rio Rico Medical & Fire District, and the Rio Rico Community Center for a night of family fun featuring food, music, and a Trunk or Treat!
Bring the family, wear your favorite costume, and enjoy a fun evening with the community.
Trunk or Treat spots are limited, if you would like to participate, please Sign Up Here.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
Regular Board of Supervisors Meeting
9:30 am, Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 2150 N. Congress Dr. Ste 120, Nogales
The meeting can also be viewed on the Santa Cruz County YouTube Channel. The latest agenda is available in the Agenda Center.
Regular Board of Supervisors Meeting
9:30 am, Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 2150 N. Congress Dr. Ste 120, Nogales
The meeting can also be viewed on the Santa Cruz County YouTube Channel. The latest agenda is available in the Agenda Center.
Reminder
Early voting begins, and early ballots will be mailed out on October 7, 2026. If you are registered for an Early Ballot and do not receive your Early Ballot by October 14, 2026, you may contact the Registrar’s Office to discuss your options. (520) 375-7990.
An important message from the Tubac Chamber of Commerce
Amado Checkpoint Expansion
Dear Tubac Business Community,
The Tubac Chamber of Commerce has released a statement regarding the proposed expansion of the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 19 near Amado.
We believe it is important for the Chamber to clearly represent the interests of our business community on a project that could affect Tubac’s tourism, economy, accessibility, and character.
We have shared the statement with several media outlets, as well as our federal and state representatives, to ensure Tubac’s business community and concerns are part of the conversation.
We encourage you to read the full statement below and stay informed as this process moves forward.
Thank you for your continued support of Tubac.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tubac is a welcoming destination where Arizona’s history, art, culture, hospitality, outdoor recreation, and exceptional night skies come together. Located just 45 minutes south of Tucson along Interstate 19, Tubac welcomes visitors from Arizona, across the country, and around the world. Its galleries, restaurants, lodging, historic attractions, festivals, and cultural experiences support businesses and jobs throughout Santa Cruz County. Each February, the Tubac Festival of the Arts brings thousands of visitors to the region and generates significant economic activity.
Tubac is also an International Dark Sky Community, and the surrounding region is home to world-class astronomical research, including the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory on Mount Hopkins. Protecting the accessibility, character, and night skies of this region is important not only to Tubac, but to the broader Santa Cruz County economy.
The Tubac Chamber of Commerce supports effective border security and recognizes the important role of the U.S. Border Patrol in protecting our communities and our nation. We also support reasonable improvements to the existing I-19 checkpoint that improve safety, efficiency, and traffic flow.
However, the Chamber opposes the proposed 17.4-acre expansion of the checkpoint near Amado as it is currently conceived and disclosed.
A federal project of this size and scope should be proportional to a clearly demonstrated operational need, and the communities and businesses affected by it should have a clear understanding of what is being proposed. Recent reporting has raised significant questions about the scope of the project, including an account from the affected property owner that plans presented to her by CBP contained facilities and functions that have not been publicly disclosed. CBP should clarify the full scope of the proposal.
Interstate 19 is the primary gateway to Tubac and a critical transportation corridor for Santa Cruz County, tourism, businesses, and international commerce. A large permanent federal facility involving substantial infrastructure, lighting, fencing, and traffic controls could affect the region’s visual and historic character, night skies, visitor experience, and access to Tubac. Those impacts deserve careful evaluation before the project moves forward.
The Tubac Chamber of Commerce calls on CBP to:
• Publicly disclose the proposed facility’s design, footprint, functions, lighting, traffic capacity, and operational plans.
• Demonstrate the operational need for a facility of this scale.
• Provide a comprehensive assessment of potential tourism, economic, traffic, environmental, and community impacts.
• Specifically evaluate potential impacts to Tubac’s International Dark Sky designation and the region’s night sky resources.
• Hold meaningful public meetings and provide opportunities for community input.
• Evaluate less intrusive alternatives that could address legitimate safety and operational needs without creating an unnecessarily large permanent facility.
Border security, international commerce, tourism, and quality of life are not mutually exclusive. We believe necessary security and infrastructure improvements can be accomplished while protecting Tubac’s accessibility, economy, environment, character, and visitor experience.
Tubac has thrived for generations as a place of history, culture, commerce, and hospitality. We intend for it to remain open, welcoming, and easy to visit for generations to come.
Until the scope and necessity of this proposed expansion are fully disclosed and justified, the Tubac Chamber of Commerce cannot support the project as proposed.
Arizona Daily Star Coverage
The Arizona Daily Star recently reported on the proposed expansion of the I-19 Border Patrol checkpoint near Amado, including concerns raised by Santa Cruz County officials, residents, the agricultural industry, and the local tourism community.
READ THE FULL ARIZONA DAILY STAR ARTICLE
https://tucson.com/news/local/border/article_69e1814a-96d6-4aa5-8b3b-ecc8881966c9.html
New Development Plans from Gary Brasher in the Barrio
Stay informed with tubacweekly.com
For anyone who missed the presentations Gary Brasher has made recently regarding his intention for a high-density housing development just across from De Anza Park, you can see his plan below. It includes 18 homes on 2.745 acres immediately west of the park. Heads-up Tubaqueños!
[Barrio Concept E.jpg - Google Drive](
Mesquite Bosque Academy Foundation
New Children's enrichment program here at the Tubac Community Center.
Mesquite Bosque Academy Foundation began with a simple challenge: when our local school moved from a five-day to a four-day week, we wondered what we could create for our children on Fridays. What started as a small idea quickly grew—from our eight-week Seedlings program to Trailhead Summer Camp, with families from across Southern Arizona joining us along the way. Founded by Marla Helena Bitterlin and Viviana Delgadillo, Mesquite Bosque is now a Tubac-based nonprofit creating Montessori-inspired, nature-based and bilingual experiences rooted in the landscape and culture of the Borderlands. Through Rooted Fridays, children ages 5–10 learn by doing—exploring STEM, art, cooking and practical life, practicing Tai Chi and movement, and learning about the native plants, wildlife, waterways and cultural heritage of our region. Fridays extend beyond the classroom through experiences with community partners such as the Tubac Nature Center, local artists, educators and other community guides. This fall, we are excited to welcome Amy Maddox as our Enrichment Lead, bringing 11 years of teaching experience and a lifelong connection to Southern Arizona and Sinaloa, Mexico.
At the heart of our vision is the belief that everyone has something to teach, and every generation has something to offer. We are growing a multigenerational community of guides, volunteers and mentors—from retirees, grandparents and high school students to artists, makers, naturalists, farmers, musicians and neighbors. There are many ways to contribute: share a craft or skill, lead an activity, tell a story, bring your knowledge of the desert, or simply spend time alongside children. Beyond Fridays, our community gatherings and seasonal celebrations bring families and neighbors together and deepen our connection to this place we call home. Want to become part of our roots? Volunteer, share your gifts, or make a donation. We need your support and donations to continue growing and enriching these opportunities for our children. Please visit mesquitebosqueacademy.org to get involved. Every contribution, whether time, talent or financial support, helps us grow this community around our children.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate, thanks to a partnership with Best Friends Animal Society and local rescues. The county received a $100,000 grant in 2024 to expand care and is now focusing on finding a new, larger facility to accommodate the growing needs. While the new facility is on hold pending funding, the county is committed to investing in resources to support and enhance animal control operations.
Tubac Community Center needs your ideas and concerns.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate.
Santa Cruz County Animal Care and Control achieved no-kill status in 2025 with a 90% save rate.
The Tubac Community Center Foundation is inviting the community to take a survey so we can learn about your experience at the Community Center. Your feedback is important and will help us improve the Center and plan for the future. Please follow this link to the online survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7CYF3P9
We appreciate your time! Please share the survey link with your friends and neighbors in Santa Cruz County.
Tubac Fire District Board Meeting
Wed Sept 30th - 4:30pmCommunityfire districtTubac Community Center, Long Room, 50 Bridge Road, Tubac, AZ 85646, USA 
Monthly meeting of the Tubac Fire District Board. The public is invited to attend. More info: www.TubacFireDistrict.org.
Tubac Weekly's 5 STARS BUSINESS AWARD goes to ALEX and his TEAM at MEGA WRENCH!
Absolutely NO TIRES on the highway or our river - Recycle @ Rio Rico Landfill or call 310-924-0363
Absolutely NO TIRES on the highway or our river - Recycle @ Rio Rico Landfill or call 310-924-0363
Alex just fixed my auto in 3 hours and his charge was less than $1000 from another mechanic. My personal local hero ! Thank you Alex, I know you don't need the promotion because we all know and trust you, but you sure have my gratitude !!!
Susanna, Editor of Tubac Weekly.
1967 E Frontage Rd Tumacacori, AZ
-Open until 5:00 PM-
# 520-891-0108
Absolutely NO TIRES on the highway or our river - Recycle @ Rio Rico Landfill or call 310-924-0363
Absolutely NO TIRES on the highway or our river - Recycle @ Rio Rico Landfill or call 310-924-0363
Absolutely NO TIRES on the highway or our river - Recycle @ Rio Rico Landfill or call 310-924-0363
TUBAC POST OFFICE, Fernando 520-398-3379
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
MON-FRI 9 to 4 CLOSED for LUNCH. 12 to 1 SATURDAY 9 to 1 & CLOSED SUNDAY
FYI _ ALWAYS ADD YOUR PO BOX NUMBER TO YOUR STREET ADDRESS OR ITEMS WILL BE RETURNED TO SENDER.
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
MON-FRI 8 to 4 CLOSED for LUNCH. 1 to 2 CLOSED SATURDAY & SUNDAY
FYI _ ALWAYS ADD YOUR PO BOX NUMBER TO YOUR STREET ADDRESS OR ITEMS WILL BE RETURNED TO SENDER.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
GREAT CLASSIC ROCK, ALL DAY, NO COMMERCIALS. THANK YOU COCHISE BROADCASTING.
TUBAC TRANSFER & RECYCLE STATION
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
Located west of the border check point on West Frontage Rd.- at the end-
SAT SUN & MON 8 -4 closed 12-1 for lunch
Please only recycle clean items.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
We're a community of people who share a passion for the environment. We thank you Alexandra Humbree for doing home and business pick-ups !
Beware Neighbors-Scammers are on the uprise here in Tubac !
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline
877-908-3360
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m-8 p.m. ET
If you’ve been affected by a scam, you are not alone. We are here to help.
When to Call the Helpline:
1. Have you spotted a scam and want to report it?
2. Do you need help deciding if something is a scam?
3. Have you or a loved one been a victim of a scam?
Note: We offer guidance and support for your situation, not investigation or case recovery.
Call 877-908-3360