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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
The Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council next public meeting is on Monday,Nov 9th at 9AM at the Tubac
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.
The link to the SCVCC website is below, check it out !
CBP pushing ahead on secretive I-19 checkpoint expansion.
News from tucson.com on the 19 checkpoint major expansion.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has quietly awarded a $63 million contract for a major expansion of the Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 19, near Amado, despite releasing scant details on the secretive project, and without yet conducting required environmental assessments or offering the public a chance to comment.
CBP awarded the contract for the expansion project to Alabama-based Brasfield & Gorrie LLC on Sept. 28, according to a listing on USAspending.gov, which was first reported by the Nogales International.
The award listing, which identifies the checkpoint location as in Nogales, does in fact refer to the I-19 checkpoint project, despite it being located 25 miles north of Nogales, between Amado and Tubac, CBP confirmed to the Arizona Daily Star Friday.
Many residents of the communities near the checkpoint, especially the historic artist town of Tubac, have been pushing back against CBP's plans to expand the temporary tent structure on northbound I-19 into a 17-acre checkpoint facility, east of the highway.
Residents of the communities near the current U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 19, near Amado, say they're strongly opposed to expanding the checkpoint into a permanent facility on 17 acres near the current checkpoint site. Grace Trejo
Locals say the expansion is unnecessary and would devastate Tubac's tourism industry, harm the environment and threaten Tubac's international "dark skies" designation, with the new checkpoint's anticipated lighting structures.
CBP has been unusually secretive about the contract award, and local residents in the Tubac and Amado communities say they're fed up with the lack of transparency from CBP regarding a massive project they believe will permanently alter their community.
Tubac resident Clem Shute is a retired environmental attorney and board member of the 500-member Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council, which for months has been trying to get more information on the project.
Shute said locals support Border Patrol and "generally agree the agents standing there at the checkpoint might be safer with a gatehouse." But residents are upset by the way the project is being carried out, he said.
"People are upset really at two levels. One is the total lack of any transparency about what they're up to, the rush, the inability (of the community) to talk to anybody or find out anything," he said.
Many are also concerned about the expected negative impacts on the local economy, culture and environment, Shute said.
"Generally, there's huge consensus in Tubac that this is not well thought-out," he said. "There’s no justification presented for it, and it's kind of shocking that there's so little that we've learned about it."
CBP: Contract for 'design services'
CBP claims that awarding the contract already doesn't mean the agency is ignoring the public opposition. In an after-hours email sent Friday, an unnamed CBP spokesman said the $63.4 million contract awarded to Brasfield & Gorrie is for "design services," but it includes "an option for future construction."
CBP said officials will comply with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act and "other applicable environmental requirements," according to the statement.
The Department of Homeland Security has not waived environmental laws for the project, so "no construction will begin until the environmental review process is complete," CBP said. "The design work will help identify potential project impacts and inform the environmental review process. ... CBP sent scoping letters to potential stakeholders in July 2026 and has received comments on the proposed project.
"Once preliminary analysis is complete, CBP will publish a draft Environmental Assessment on CBP.gov and provide an additional opportunity for public comment."
The Star has struggled to get details on the project. Contractor Brasfield & Gorrie was told by CBP not to respond to the Star's query about the checkpoint expansion project, said spokeswoman Carla Jean Whitley by phone on Friday.
Whitley said she was restricted from confirming or denying the company's involvement, despite the public listing. Another employee at the company hung up after a Star reporter identified herself.
An official in the office of Border Patrol's Tucson Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Henry Laxdal referred the Star to the agency's community liaison for the I-19 checkpoint project, Agent Jose "Lu" Maheda. But Meheda was on vacation Thursday and unavailable, another CBP media officer said.
Tubac resident Kathleen Vandervoet told the Star that many in Tubac are wondering how CBP's potential contractors could have accurately bid on the project without a detailed plan from CBP.
"No business could submit a bid without knowing how much is required," she said. "So again, we all feel very disgusted and angry that they won't show the community what the plans are, but the builder can see them.”
Replacing 'aging' facilities
CBP has not publicly announced the contract award, nor secured the land to build the proposed 17-acre permanent checkpoint facility.
The I-19 checkpoint project is one of several Border Patrol facility expansions planned or underway across the Southwest. That includes $500 million worth of planned spending in Arizona alone on planned checkpoint expansions and three new Border Patrol stations, as CBP tries to spend down billions allocated by Congress in 2025.
The One Big Beautiful Bill allocated $5 billion for updating and constructing CBP checkpoints and facilities.
Opponents of the proposed expansion of Border Patrol's I-19 checkpoint say the project's large footprint would cause unnecessary environmental and economic damage, and would also threaten Tubac's international "dark skies" designation. Grace Trejo
Last month a CBP spokesman sent an emailed statement in response to a list of questions from the Star on the I-19 project.
"Funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill will allow CBP to make long-overdue improvements to border security infrastructure. We are in the early planning stages for new and modernized Border Patrol stations and checkpoints across the Southwest border," the statement said. "These investments will replace aging facilities, strengthen operations in key locations, and give our agents the resources they need to stop human and drug smugglers."
CBP still hasn't responded to the Star's September request for any data or studies that demonstrate the need for a major expansion of the I-19 checkpoint.
In response to the Star's Wednesday request for such data, CBP said in the email: "CBP bases the need for an expanded I-19 checkpoint on several factors, including the safety of agents and motorists, projected traffic volume increases, and operational alignment."
The agency intends to widen the inspection lanes, add traffic control and barriers "to make the checkpoint a safer environment for CBP’s operators and the traveling public."
CBP said officials commissioned a traffic analysis in late 2025 "to assess the appropriate number of inspection lanes at the checkpoint based on projected traffic through 2040."
"This study supports an increase in commercial lanes from one to two, and an increase in non-commercial lanes from one to four," the CBP statement said. "The land port of entry in Nogales, which feeds I-19, has been expanded in recent years to accommodate heavier commercial traffic. Aligning port of entry and downstream checkpoint capacities helps to facilitate safe and efficient trade and travel."
The statement didn't address why a 17-acre expansion was necessary to accommodate expected increases in traffic.
Locals call for transparency
Locals say even now, agents operating the checkpoint don't make use of all the existing lanes. The checkpoint has been unmanned often in recent weeks, local residents said.
CBP has approached a private landowner and Santa Cruz County officials about purchasing their land adjacent to the highway.
Both Santa Cruz County officials and the private landowner — longtime rancher Laurinda Oswald — have said they would refuse to sell to CBP and are expecting the federal government to seize the parcels anyway.
Oswald said she would have been willing to sell a couple of acres to CBP to upgrade the current checkpoint. But she refused the agency's request to buy 18 acres from her.
Resources for border security should be focused on the southern border, she said.
"Put your money and your people where it’s necessary," Oswald said. "I just don't think it's necessary at this checkpoint to expand it like that."
Oswald said she's braced for the U.S. government to take steps to seize her land using eminent domain. Eminent domain is a process the government can use to seize private land for public use if it provides fair compensation to the owner.
During a March meeting with CBP officials about the project, Oswald was shown renderings of the project that included multiple traffic lanes, a place for secondary inspections of trucks, kennels for dogs, a holding facility for people who have been detained and "lights all over the place," she said.
Oswald was not allowed to keep the documents. Oswald told the Star she has the resources to hire lawyers and fight any effort to take her land.
On Friday, CBP would not say if the agency planned to seize private or county land against the owners' will. "CBP is continuing to evaluate the project footprint and potential property needs," CBP said in the email. "Because final project boundaries have not been determined and discussions with prospective landowners are ongoing, CBP cannot comment on potential acquisition methods at this time."
In the meantime, residents' frustration is growing, Vandervoet said.
"We feel like we're being taken for children who don't know what’s best for them, whereas of course we have lived here for many decades, and we do know what works in this community," she said.
Contact reporter Emily Bregel at ebregel@tucson.com. On X, formerly Twitter: @EmilyBregel
TAKE ACTION !
CONTACT THE SENATORS BELOW TO VOICE YOUR OPINION IN THE LINKS BELOW AND LET HIM KNOW YOUR CONCERNS ! These links are direct and only take a few minutes- PLEASE do it now least you forget !
MARK KELLY
https://www.kelly.senate.gov/contact/contact-form/
AND SENATOR GALLEGO-
https://www.gallego.senate.gov/connect/get-in-touch/
STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE SCVCC WEBSITE - LINK BELOW
Local History Events
Nov 17th -2pm
This is wonderful weather to get out and Explore. Here is a list of great Museums to explore.
- Mission San Xavier del Bac San Xavier del Bac Mission
1950 W. SAN XAVIER ROAD., TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)Museums
Founded in 1692 by Padre Eusebio Kino, the "White Dove of the Desert" continues to serve the religious life of the surrounding Tohono O'odham community. It is open to the public from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily; free. Free tours are on the half-hour from 9:30 a.m., through 12:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, except during special religious observances. Traditional O'odham food and crafts are available year-round. Call or visit sanxaviermission.org for more information. 294-2624 - Historical Tours Ongoing, 10:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Old Tucson
201 S KINNEY RD, TUCSONNORTHWESTGET TICKETS
$14Museums
Historical Tours are now offered daily at select times at Old Tucson. In this guided hour-long tour you'll learn about the rich history of our famous location. 520-883-0100 - Tucson Gay Museum Museums
A website tracks the history of how the gay community has responded to the political and social environment of Southern Arizona, and welcomes contributions of stories and artifacts. Visit tucsongaymuseum.org for more information. - Tubac Presidio State Historic Park Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
1 BURRUEL ST., TUBACSOUTH TUCSONMuseums
Arizona's first state park preserves the site of the oldest Spanish presidio and the first European settlement in Arizona established in 1752. The park features a museum, underground archaeological exhibit, Arizona's first printing press, an 1885 territorial schoolhouse and other turn-of-the-century structures, and the trailhead for the historic Anza Trail, from which Juan Bautista de Anza departed when he established San Francisco. Giclées of William Ahrendt paintings from the Arizona Highways "Cavalcade of History" collection are displayed in the gallery. Cultural events include Anza Days in October; Spanish Colonial living history; archaeological tours; nature walks; and concerts. Hours are 9… 398-2252 - Acadia Ranch Museum and Oracle Historical Society Oracle Historical Society and Acadia Ranch Museum
825 MOUNT LEMMON ROAD., ORACLECENTRALMuseums
The Oracle Historical Society preserves artifacts and properties to educate and to encourage appreciation of the unique cultural-historical heritage of the community of Oracle and surrounding areas. Collections include the Huggett Family collection of ranching artifacts, a documents archive and many books on local history. Hours are 1 to 5 p.m., each Saturday, with extended hours for special exhibits; free, donations welcome. 896-9609 - UA Science: Flandrau UA Science: Flandrau
1601 E. UNIVERSITY BLVD., TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYMuseums
The museum features a planetarium theater that shows live sky shows and galaxy tours, hands-on exhibits, science demonstrations and viewing through a 16-inch telescope, the largest public telescope in Southern Arizona. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday; 6 to 9 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday; and 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, except Tuesday, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; $7, $5 age 4 to 15, free younger child, $4 Arizona college student with ID. Visit flandrau.org for more information. 621-7827 - UA Mineral Museum UA Mineral Museum
1601 E. UNIVERSITY BLVD., TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYMuseums
The museum is the longest continuously curated mineral museum west of the Mississippi and is recognized as one of the top collections in the country. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday; $7.50, $5 age 4 to 15, free younger child. Visit uamineralmuseum.org for more information. 621-4524 - Arizona History Museum Arizona History Museum
949 E. SECOND ST., TUCSONCENTRALMuseums
The museum focuses on Southern Arizona history from the Spanish colonial through the territorial eras. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday; $5, $4 senior or age 12 to 18, free younger child, member, visitor to the library or the store, 2-for-1 admission the first Tuesday every month. Visit arizonahistoricalsociety.org for more information. 628-5774 - Center for Creative Photography Center for Creative Photography
1030 N. OLIVE ROAD., TUCSONCENTRALMuseums
Focusing on preservation, access and education, the center actively collects, preserves and makes available materials to foster the understanding and appreciation of photography and its history. Featuring archives, collections, education programs, exhibitions and publications, the museum holds the archives of more than 50 great 20th-century photographers, including Ansel Adams, Harry Callahan, Edward Weston and Garry Winograd. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, except Christmas and New Year's Day; free. Visit creativephotography.org for more information. 621-7968 - The Amerind Foundation and Museum The Amerind Foundation and Museum
2100 N. AMERIND ROAD, EXIT 318 OFF INTERSTATE 10., DRAGOONBENSON / DRAGOONMuseums
A museum of Native American archaeology, art, history and culture. Potters of Mata Ortiz: Inspired by the Past ... Creating Traditions for the Future and A Pottery Competition continue indefinitely. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday; $8, $7 senior, $5 age 12 to 18 and college student, free younger child. Visit amerind.org for more information. (520) 586-3666 - Titan Missile Museum Titan Missile Museum
1580 W. DUVAL MINE ROAD., SAHUARITASOUTH TUCSONMuseums
The only one of 54 missile silos preserved as a National Historic Landmark, at seven stories underground. Tour includes the launch-control center and missile silo. Displays include an actual Titan II ICBM. Visitors can experience a simulated launch. Open daily from 8:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving and Christmas; $9.50, $8.50 senior or military, $6 ages 7 to 12, free younger child. Visit titanmissilemuseum.org for more information. 625-7736 - Pima Air and Space Museum Pima Air and Space Museum
6000 E. VALENCIA ROAD., TUCSONEAST SIDEMuseums
The museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the world and is the largest non-government funded aviation museum in the United States. The museum maintains a collection of more than 300 aircraft and spacecraft from around the globe and more than 125,000 artifacts in five air-cooled indoor exhibit spaces. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last admittance, 4 p.m.), daily; $12.50, $9 ages 7 to 12, $12.75 senior, military, Pima County resident and AAA from November through May; $7 to $15.50, free for children age 6 and younger. Visit pimaair.org for more information. 574-0462 - Southern Arizona Transportation Museum
414 N. TOOLE AVE., TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYMuseums
The museum features audio and visual interactive elements for youth and adults alike, a diorama with trains and a 1907 depot, a state-of-the-art media wall, knowledgeable docents and a locomotive. Locomotive Saturdays are held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and offer an up-close-and-personal look at a real locomotive. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday; $6, free during Locomotive Saturdays hours. Visit tucsonhistoricdepot.org for more information. 623-2223 - Kitt Peak National Observatory Museums
Located atop the 6,875-foot summit of Kitt Peak, the observatory offers nightly viewing and an advanced overnight program that lets visitors stay on site, use advanced equipment and "explore some of North America's most spectacular night skies." (Stargazing by reservation only.) Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily. Guided tours are at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; a single tour is $5.75, $3 age 7 to 12, free younger child, June through October; $7.75, $4 age 7 to 12, free younger child, November through May. Special rates for three tours are available. Night tours feature four hours… - Fort Lowell Museum Fort Lowell Museum
2900 N. CRAYCROFT ROAD., TUCSONEAST SIDEMuseums
The museum features exhibits about military life on the Arizona frontier. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; free. Visit arizonahistoricalsociety.org for more information. 885-3832 - International Wildlife Museum International Wildlife Museum
4800 W. GATES PASS ROAD., TUCSONWEST SIDEMuseums
The museum highlights more than 400 species of insects, mammals and birds from around the globe. Dioramas depict wild animals in their natural settings. Videos, interactive computers and hands-on exhibits promote wildlife appreciation and conservation. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday; $8, $3 ages 4 to 12, free younger child or member, $6 senior, student or military. Visit thewildlifemuseum.org for more information. 629-0100 - Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
2021 N. KINNEY ROAD., TUCSONNORTHWESTMuseums
A world-renowned botanical garden, zoo and natural-history museum that features a vast collection of native plants and wildlife. Walk into the lush hummingbird and mixed-species aviaries, or learn about the statuesque saguaro and other desert denizens via daily tours and bird walks. Activities for kids include a simulated fossil dig. Open daily 8:30 am - 5:00 pm October - May 7:30 am - 2:00 pm June - September Prices: General Admission (ages 13-64): $29.95 Youth (ages 3-12): $19.95 Children 2 and under, Desert Museum members and Native Americans (with Tribal ID or CIB) receive free admission Seniors (65+ with ID)… 883-2702 - Minor MutinyThursdays, 3:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Tucson
265 S. CHURCH AVE, TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYFreeMuseums
High school students are welcome free at the Museum for Minor Mutiny, a safe, fun, inspiring after-school program. 520-624-5019 
Museum of the Horse SoldierSundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Wednesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Museum of the Horse Soldier
6541 E. TANQUE VERDE ROAD., TUCSONCENTRALAdults: $3.00 Kids(7-18): $2.00 Children 6 and under: FREEMuseums
Museum of the Horse Soldier showcases items used by the United States Military’s mounted services and recognize the horses’ contributions to U.S. Military history. Visit www.museumofthehorsesoldier.com for more information. 520-722-2706- The Jewish History Museum The Jewish History Museum
564 S. STONE AVE., TUCSONCENTRALMuseums
The museum is housed in the oldest Jewish house of worship in Arizona and features the history of Jewish pioneers in exhibits, artifacts, research, genealogy and story-telling. Hours are 1 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday; and noon to 3 p.m., Friday; $5, free age 17 and younger. Visit jewishhistorymuseum.org for more information. 670-9073 - MOCA Minor MutinyThursdays, 3:30-5 p.m.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Tucson
265 S. CHURCH AVE, TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYHigh school students with valid ID are welcome freeMuseums
Minor Mutiny is a safe, fun, inspiring afterschool program. Hangout, make a zine, watch an art video, get homework help – this unstructured “lounge” is supervised by artist / mentors with a wide range of expertise to offer teens. 520.624.5019 - The Need to Keep: Works by Amanda KellyThrough April 11, 2027, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
4455 EAST CAMP LOWELL DRIVE, TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)$15 adults; discounted admission availableMuseums
Artist Amanda Kelly uses meticulously crafted miniature scenes to explore memory, identity, accumulation and the emotional significance of everyday objects. On view through April 11, 2027. 520-881-0606 - Ara Bentley Exhibition: The Beetlejuice House & Addams Family Mini Mansion Through Nov. 5, 2028
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
4455 EAST CAMP LOWELL DRIVE, TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)GET TICKETS
15Museums
See Ara Bentley’s miniature masterpieces, including the 16-room Addams Family Mansion and upcoming Beetlejuice House. Handmade details, custom builds, and whimsical pop culture charm bring these tiny worlds to life. 5208810606 - Peruvian Retablos Exhibition by Claudio Jimenez Quispe Through March 21, 2027
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
4455 EAST CAMP LOWELL DRIVE, TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)GET TICKETS
15Museums
Experience 16 handcrafted Peruvian retablos by Claudio Jimenez Quispe, depicting culture, history, and politics. These wooden boxes celebrate Andean heritage, storytelling, and artistry. 5208810606 - Memory Lane: Traditions in Motion Exhibition from the Arizona State Museum Through Jan. 10, 2027
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
4455 EAST CAMP LOWELL DRIVE, TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)GET TICKETS
15Museums
Discover hand-painted miniature vehicles by Native artists in Memory Lane: Traditions in Motion. Cars, bikes, and skateboards showcase Indigenous heritage and contemporary culture, with select displays and hands-on activities. 5208810606 - Interactive Exhibit - "I am Tucson" Saturdays, Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesdays-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Mondays, Fridays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Arizona History Museum
949 E. SECOND ST., TUCSONCENTRALFree - $8, depending on age.Museums
I am Tucson is an exhibit that invites you to share your impressions and experiences of living in Southern Arizona. This non-traditional exhibit tells the story of Tucson in the words and drawings of those who live here both past and present. Add your voice to this exhibit today! 520-628-5774 - UA Science: Mirror Lab Tours UA Steward Observatory
933 N. CHERRY ST., TUCSONCENTRALMuseums
Learn how the lab melds scientific research with manufacturing techniques to change the way we explore the universe at 1 and 3 p.m., weekdays; $15, $8 for ages 7 through 22. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how giant mirrors are made for telescopes that will probe the limits of outer space and allow astronomers to discover the edges of the universe. Visit mirrorlab.as.arizona.edu/tours for more information. 621-2288 - La Pilita Museum La Pilita Museum
420 S. MAIN AVE., TUCSONCENTRALMuseums
The museum exhibits the written and photographed history of Barrio Viejo and El Hoyo. The permanent exhibit is Who Walked Here Before You, a collection of photos of Carrillo Gardens and Elysian Grove of the 1890s to 1920s. Hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday; free, $2 requested donation. Call or visit lapilita.org for more information. 882-7454 - Easy to View HistorySat., Nov. 7, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Steam Pump Ranch
10901 N ORACLE RD, ORO VALLEYORO VALLEYFreeMuseums
The Oro Valley Historical Society is making it easier than ever to explore local history. Visit the Pusch House Museum to see what we pulled from the vault. - A Museum, A Hike, A Donation, and ArchaeologySat., Nov. 14, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Steam Pump Ranch
10901 N ORACLE RD, ORO VALLEYORO VALLEYFreeMuseums
Tour the Pusch House Museum, take a guided one-hour gentle hike around the Ranch, see Old Pueblo Archaeology in the Heritage Garden, donate to Gap Ministries for foster kids. - See History, Take A Hike, ContributeSat., Nov. 14, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Steam Pump Ranch
10901 N ORACLE RD, ORO VALLEYORO VALLEYFreeMuseums
Tour the Pusch House Museum, take a guided one-hour gentle hike around the Ranch, visit the Heirloom Farmers' Market, donate to Gap Ministries for foster kids. What a great Saturday! - History in the Park Sat., Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fort Lowell Museum
2900 N. CRAYCROFT ROAD., TUCSONEAST SIDEGET TICKETS
$5.00Museums
History in the Park at Fort Lowell Museum with demonstrations, displays, and hands-on family activities, featuring a November scavenger hunt themed around the Wham payroll robbery. 520-622-0594 - Barrio Viejo (Old Neighborhood) Third Sunday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Continues through Jan. 17
Rosendo S. Perez Park
424 S MAIN AVE, TUCSONTUCSON (GENERAL)GET TICKETS
$35.00Museums
Explore Tucson’s oldest neighborhood and the largest collection of Sonoran row houses in the United States. For over a century, Barrio Viejo (Old Neighborhood) was the heart of Tucson’s social, 520-622-0594 - Explore Our PastSat., Nov. 21, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Steam Pump Ranch
10901 N ORACLE RD, ORO VALLEYORO VALLEYFreeMuseums
Visit the Pusch House Museum at historic Steam Pump Ranch to learn about Southern Arizona history. We are open for you to explore our mutual past. - Murals & More in the 4th Avenue DistrictFourth Sunday of every month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Continues through Jan. 24
CORBETT'S
340 NORTH 6TH AVENUE, TUCSONDOWNTOWN / 4TH AVE / UNIVERSITYGET TICKETS
$35.00Museums
Explore the unique blend of art, culture, and history painted in the murals of Tucson’s historic 4th Avenue District. This walking tour winds through alleyways filled with striking murals, 520-622-0594
Thriving in the Desert: Creating Wildlife-Friendly Spaces in Southern Arizona. Sat. Nov 7th @11 am.
What if your yard, patio, or even a few containers could help protect local wildlife?
Join AZPM for our next Thriving in Our Desert discussion to explore how we can support biodiversity right in our own outdoor spaces.
Paul and Alice Baker Center for Public Media
Join us to learn about:
- Creating wildlife-friendly spaces in Southern Arizona
- Choosing native plants that support local wildlife
- Providing food and shelter for pollinators, birds, butterflies, reptiles, and more
- Simple, practical ways to make a difference at home and in our communities
Moderated by Arizona Illustrated producer Tony Paniagua. Panelists include:
- Nolan Bade, PLA — Lecturer and Landscape Architect, University of Arizona
- Carrianne Funicelli — Founder, Strategic Habitats Enhancements
- Trica Oshant Hawkins — Arizona Wildlife Federation
Discover how even small spaces can make a meaningful difference for wildlife in our desert community!
Arizona Illustrated airs Sundays at 6:30 p.m. on PBS 6. Watch full episodes on the PBS App.
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.
A new border wall is under construction at San Rafael Ranch
Arizona rancher says double border wall is ‘political folly’.
TO HEAR OR READ THIS STORY USE THE LINK BELOW-
https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2026/10/23/arizona-rancher-against-wall
EVENTS at the HISTORIC LOWE HOUSE
OCT 24-Nov 7 @ 10AM-4pm
ACROSS FROM THE PRESIDIO
Nov 13-15
ACROSS FROM THE PRESIDIO
News from the County
You can sign up for this newsletter to go into your inbox on the county website-or call Shannon Hall at 520. 375.7643 to subscribe to the County Newsletter.
Low Cost Rabies Clinic
9:00 am - 11:00 am, November 7, Tubac Community Center
9:00 am - 1:00 pm, November 14, City of Nogales Public Works parking lot
9:00 am - 1:00 pm, November 21, Rio Rico Swim and Racquet Club
Rabies shots for $10; licenses also available. For more information, contact Animal Care & Control at (520) 375-7860.
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](
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
TUBAC POST OFFICE, Fernando 520-398-3379
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
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
GREAT CLASSIC ROCK, ALL DAY, NO COMMERCIALS. THANK YOU COCHISE BROADCASTING.
TUBAC TRANSFER & RECYCLE STATION
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.
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 !
TCA ~Opening Reception—TONIGHT ! November 6 @ 5 PM
Tubac Center of the Arts (TCA) will be exhibiting its first international show in collaboration with the International Society of Experimental Artists (ISEA). For the first time, the International Society of Experimental Artists (ISEA) will host its annual INNOVATIONS Exhibition and Symposium in the state. Artists from across the United States and around the world will partake in a juried exhibition at the Tubac Center of the Arts. The Members’ Open winners exhibit features outstanding works by 5 award winners from The Members’ Open Exhibit. Dive into artist Shay Lopez: Homegrown Eclectic Exhibition! A diverse installation of mobiles, paintings, sculptures, and wearables.
website for more information https://www.tubacarts.org