31 minute read
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
E������� ��� M����� N���, J��� 20, 2022 VOICES
Please save Oro Valley
Editor:
I am writing this letter to implore the Oro Valley voters to cast their votes for any candidate that will preserve Oro Valley and not build, build and build.
In 2016, the voters of Oro Valley voted on a town plan. e prior administration of Hiremath and Co. never met a developer they didn’t like. ose signs that went up for town meetings always ended up changing the town plan and rezoning the master plan. us, it resulted in cookie-cutter houses and more cookie-cutter houses being jammed into small spaces. ere is no mass transit here and the roads are becoming too crowded. We the voters wanted low density to preserve our beautiful desert and wildlife, and now our Oro Valley is becoming Phoenix South or Tucson North.
I came to Oro Valley from a crowded place which was once beautiful, so I know what I am talking about. Oro Valley leaders need to learn the word exclusive. On Long Island, where I am from, you would never block the water view.
Why would you want to jam in highrise apartments to block our views of the mountains? ere are places where apartments are located on Oracle Road. ere is no need to put apartments and little houses near low-density existing homes.
Again, the word “exclusive” comes to mind when developers say they are ful lling a need for lower cost housing with these new small homes and apartments. ere were places I just couldn’t a ord to live on Long Island and, guess what, they had a water view. Please Oro Valley, let’s elect a mayor and a town council who will keep our town beautiful, exclusive, and a home for us and our native wildlife.
Ann M. Rogan
Oro Valley
Transparency needed
but I have been bombarded by unsolicited iers from the Keep Oro Valley Strong Political Action Committee (PAC), attacking our current mayor and council. e PAC says on its webpage: “Our vision for the future is to support a vibrant, prosperous and growing Oro Valley, etc. …”
But the mailings the PAC sends seem to promote the opposite. ey are peppered with hateful attacks on the current mayor, council members and even the town itself. Attacks, as a 10-year Oro Valley resident, I know not to be true.
Further, I found the PAC is run by Tom Plantz, the same person behind the failed 2019 initiative to recall Mayor Win eld and Vice Mayor Barrett. I also found on the town clerk’s website, the PAC’s fourth quarter 2020 initial campaign nance report includes several contributors who supported Mayor Hiremath’s failed 2018 town council reelection, council members who supported big-land developers, rezoning areas favorable to their construction projects and the town’s purchase of the money-losing El Conquistador Golf Course.
It is clear to me the PAC’s real purpose is to elect a town council that is pro-big-city-environment, big-developer friendly, with Danny Sharp as mayor and his running mates Erceg, Hurt and Rodman as new council members. A council with the same governing approach that was overwhelmingly rejected by Oro Valley voters four years ago.
So, Keep OV Strong PAC, Oro Valley voters need a little transparency on what you are really promoting. Stop the hateful attacks and honestly make your case. en let the voters decide.
Steve Denning Oro Valley
A homegrown issue
Editor:
A er a recent Oro Valley Town Council meeting an incident involving Councilman Tim Bohen and another councilmember occurred.
It was heated enough that the OVPD needed to get involved. It ended in a courtroom, and an injunction against harassment was levied against Councilman Bohen. It was a sad day for Oro Valley. It was also avoidable, in my opinion.
Councilman Bohen has, on more than one occasion, in recent months used the days to belittle and criticize town sta . His tirades are sometimes short and sometimes lengthy. But each time these happen, he is allowed to do so by you, Mayor Win eld.
You sit there with a blank look on your face and say nothing. Ms. Jacobs (town manager), you sit there and allow your sta to be ridiculed. Both are unacceptable.
You have known for a couple years the behavioral issues associated with Mr. Bohen. I personally called it to your attention about the time he was sworn in. OVPD detail incident report V19010481 illuminates Bohen’s behavior and its potential outcome. is should have been su cient to keep him on a short leash, in my opinion. Mr. Win eld, you have the authority in Robert’s rules to throttle Councilman Bohen. It’s time you showed some modicum of leadership. Ms. Jacobs, you need to defend your sta . is is just one more vivid example of why, according to a recent mail piece, Oro Valley is a community in decline.
Don Cox Oro Valley
Trying to steal election
Editor:
In a still-developing story, we are learning about an alleged plan to mislead Oro Valley voters by challenger campaigns colluding with a political action committee to attack the town’s mayor and council.
Here’s what we know so far. Starting in the fourth quarter of 2020, a group of Canada Hills residents and HOA leaders donated to Keep Oro Valley Strong Political Action Committee.
Additional donors included current Councilmember Dr. Harry Greene and former councilmembers Joe Hornat and Bill Rodman, and council critics omas Plantz, Don Cox and James Prunty. Councilmember Steve Solomon joined the team with a donation in the rst quarter of 2021. rough the rst quarter of 2022, this group had raised $15,301 and spent $11,297. eir work product consists of a website, nefarious Nextdoor posts and unsolicited emails to the general population. More recently they have been sending expensive “hit piece” mailings and buying Explorer ads to attack the current mayor and council with lies and half-truths.
A closer look would reveal the challenger campaigns may have also bene ted from inside help. Councilmembers Solomon and Greene — both donors to KOVS — have placed items on the council agenda and seized other agenda items to berate their fellow members creating “nonissue” election sound bites.
Examples are the reinvented years-old community center ADA access issue, Solomon’s passionate support for his contributor Town West’s six-story apartments at OVMP, and the failed attempt to delay the Naranja Park groundbreaking etc.
However, the recent revelation that KOVS and all council challenger candidates have used and paid substantial sums to the same political adviser li s the lid o this operation. In essence, it means KOVS appears to have acted as an unreported fundraising operation to support mayoral challenger Sharp, and council challengers Hurt, Erceg and Rodman. at’s all we know so far, but this negative campaigning by the challengers tells me they don’t have the vision or platform to earn our votes.
Jack Stinnett
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2022 Senior Resource Guide
FOOTHILLS NEWS
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15 Top 10 reasons to have dental care in Mexico
BY COYOTE DENTAL
Why are more Arizonans choosing Mexico for their dental care? e top 10 reasons may surprise you. 1. Huge savings — Patients are saving up to 70% more than in U.S. dentist o ces. A $300 lling here may only cost $55 in Mexico. A $5,000 implant in the States may only cost $1,350 or less in Mexico. With prices rising everywhere, it is a deal that cannot be beat. 2. Amazing technology — e technology in many Mexican dental o ces far exceeds what you’ll nd in the States. e labs are completely state-of-the-art, leading to faster recovery times and higher success rates. 3. Compassionate care — Mexican dentists have a reputation for putting the patient rst. No upselling or unnecessary treatments. ey care about you, your smile and your pocketbook! 4. Cleanliness — Dental o ces in Mexico have the same level of cleanliness you would expect in a U.S. o ce. 5. Safe and secure — e border towns o er safe, tourist-friendly streets. Plus, if you’re still uneasy your rst time going, many o ces will o er to have a sta member meet you at the border and escort you to their o ce. You’ll quickly discover you do not need the help. 6. Dental insurance coverage — Check your plan. Your dental insurance might just cover part of your care. Even in Mexico! You may have to submit the claim yourself, but it will help make your already-massive savings even better. 7. Speaking Spanish is not required — e dental o ce sta is uent in English.
Even when a word gets lost in translation, there is always a dental assistant nearby to help. Plus, there’s not a lot of talking when someone has their hands in your mouth. 8. No passport, no problem — Americans walk across the border to such places as
Nogales and Los Algodones every day.
Many do so with only a government issued photo ID (i.e., enhanced driver’s li-
cense or passport) or only a copy of your birth certi cate if under the age of 16. is has been con rmed with the customs border patrol. ey’ll have no issues getting across the border or coming back. 9. You don’t have to do hours of research to nd the best dentist — Believe it or not, there are U.S. dentists who will refer you to the best dental o ces in Mexico. Companies, such as Coyote Dental in Tucson, have actual U.S. dentists vetting the dental o ces for you. ey make recommendations based on your individual needs and best of all, they are a completely free service! 10. Tacos, tequila, pharmacy and fun — Inexpensive prescriptions, fun shops, outstanding food and even a little alcohol, if you’d like. e border towns are tourist attractions for a reason. ey are fun places to spend a day!
Get answers to your questions and discover whether dentistry in Mexico is right for you, visit coyotedental.com or call 520-355-4800.
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ink You Know What to Expect from Senior Living? ink again.
Retirement living is not what it used to be – and thank goodness for that. We’ve transformed the experience to help everyone stay active, engaged, and loving life. e most common words we hear around here: “I should have done this years ago.” Each Watermark community in Tucson is a welcoming neighborhood, where you can live the way you want among friends who feel like family (favorite relatives only!). Unwind by the pool, explore a desert trail, or meet friends for dinner while we take care of all the rest. Farewell to dirty dishes and household chores; your time is all yours!
So what appeals to you? e equine program at e Hacienda at the River will soothe your spirit and open your mind. At e Hacienda at the Canyon, you could join the bocce ball team – no experience needed – and become a Senior Olympian. A movie bu ? Catch your favorite lms in the private theater at e Watermark at Oro Valley, or bask in the beauty of Pusch Ridge. Stay as active or chill as you like while enjoying the many amenities and exciting events at e Watermark at Continental Ranch. Discover new opportunities and interests every day at our agship community, e Fountains at La Cholla. A Time for Growth Your world expands when you live in a community that appreciates and cheers for you. Suddenly it’s easy to get involved in classes, meet new people, and feel connected again. Your old friends are still nearby and new ones are just down the hall, in the dining room, or at tai chi class. Frequent excursions and transportation services give you access to everything you need and enjoy around town. Most of all, being part of a Watermark community means you can spend time with others or be on your own as much you like. You’ll meet people you never would have met before, and you’ll make each other’s lives better.
the beauty of Pusch Ridge. Stay as active or chill as you like while enjoying the many amenities and exciting events at e Watermark at Continental Ranch. Discover new opportunities and interests every day at our agship community, e Fountains at La Cholla. A Time for Growth Your world expands when you live in a community that appreciates and cheers with others or be on your own as much you like. You’ll meet people you never would have met before, and you’ll make each other’s lives better.
– Helen O., Watermark resident
e more you learn, the better it sounds. Start exploring at WatermarkTucson.com
Thinking about Senior Living?
Sometimes people confuse moving to a retirement community with a loss of independence. ut for many it is the exact opposite, they actually gain more free dom. Today’s retirement communities are far different than you might think. They’re for people who want to maintain their independence, expand their hori zons, and make their own decisions. Those who want to enjoy being more of their true self. magine everything you need to ourish and everything you need to ourish for years to come. A wealth of activities. A stylish se ng. abulous cuisine. Attentive service. And supportive healthcare services should the need arise. So, before you say w ’m not ready consider these five things when making a decision about senior living and take a look at our SRG senior living communities.
Explore new interests and meet new friends.
As we age, our social circles can change. A retirement community can offer options to join in with peers as well as those of all ages, allowing you the choice of connecting with someone new or exploring a new interest. Social connections and connections to community are the key to a longer and more vibrant life. t’s scientifically proven. A retirement community can offer a life energized through connection, with an extra hand if you should need it. Ask yourself, are you ready for more connection
Simplify your life.
njoy the convenience of maintenance-free living with less home care and housework. o need to worry about driving, scheduled transportation options are available. njoy restaurant-style dining with delicious made-to-order menu choices. rom comfortable favorites to trying something new, you’ll always find an extensive selection of entrees from which to choose without having to worry about the hassle of shopping or preparing daily meals. And should you want specialized nutritional choices, there are a variety of menu options catering to different needs from low-sodium to plant-based selections. ow is the time to experience the freedom a service-enriched community can offer you. With delicious and expansive dining options, the convenience of housekeeping and trans portation services and so much more, you’ll enjoy the advantages and independence of your lifestyle within a comfortable and maintenance-free environment. Are you ready for more convenience
W hy wait?
Whether downsizing or considering a single level oorplan, most people need to make housing adjustments as they grow older. ou’ve planned ahead your whole life, so don’t wait until you have to make a decision you or your loved ones haven’t prepared for. hoosing a community that meets your preferences and interests as well as your needs offers you the opportunity to expand your horizons. To enjoy your lifestyle and thrive, now rather than later. an you think of a better time to move
W e realize that circumstances can change.
So, we offer vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle options from ndependent iving to Assisted iving to Memory are. n addition, you’ll find access to preemptive and pre ventative wellness strategies to keep feeling fit and strong, rehabilitative services to help you heal and feel better, faster, and even onsite health and wellbeing clinics. A full range of health care options, from help with minor tasks to daily assistance and care. ut most importantly assistance is personalized and can be adjusted up or down as you need allowing you to be ready for whatever happens.
row away yo r co c o a o r r
There’s hardly anything more invigorating than trying something for the first time-whether it’s the first time ever, or the first time in ages. t’s all about living life with real zest and finding new ways to enjoy it. xplore the possibilities with a calendar of inspirations all curated by a full-time activities concierge. magine dining on exceptional cuisine, prepared by a chef who knows your tastes. ree yourself from daily concerns maintenance-free lifestyle and enjoy an empowered life filled with new friends and new opportunities. We invite you to learn more about the many exciting experiences waiting to be discovered at our communities.
Amber Lights
2 1 orth Montebella Rd., Tucson, A 0 20. . www.Amber ightsRetirement.com
Silver Springs
00 West amino ncanto, Green Valley, A 1 20. 2 . 12 www.SilverSpringsRetirement.com
Villa Hermosa
00 ast Speedway lvd., Tucson, A 10 20. 0 . 1 www.Villa ermosaSenior iving.com
Gift Card Payment Scams
Gift cards are popular and convenient…and not just as gifts. �on artists Gift cards are popular and convenient…and not just as gifts. �on artists continue to usegift cards as a convenient form of payment in their scams. Gift cards are popular and convenient…and not just as gifts. �on artists continue to usegift cards as a convenient form of payment in their scams. Gift cards are popular and convenient…and not just as gifts. �on artists continue to usegift cards as a convenient form of payment in their scams. continue to usegift cards as a convenient form of payment in their �ow these scams wor���ow these scams wor�� scams.
�ow these scams wor�� • �ou are contacted about an urgent financial matter� and are told the �uic�est way to address • �ou are contacted about an urgent financial matter� and are told the �uic�est way to address �ow these scams wor��the issue is to buy one or more gift cards –often referred to as “electronic vouchers.” the issue is to buy one or more gift cards –often referred to as “electronic vouchers.” • �ou are contacted about an urgent financial matter� and are told the �uic�est way to address • �ouaretold to share the numbers on the bac� of the gift cards either by reading them over • �ouaretold to share the numbers on the bac� of the gift cards either by reading them over • • • �ou are contacted about an urgent financial matter� and are told the �uic�est way to address the issue is to buy one or more gift cards –often referred to as “electronic vouchers.” • �ouaretold to share the numbers on the bac� of the gift cards either by reading them over the phone or ta�ing and sending a picture. the issue is to buy one or more gift cards –often referred to as “electronic vouchers.” �ouaretold to share the numbers on the bac� of the gift cards either by reading them over the phone or ta�ing and sending a picture. �he scammer is able to �uic�ly convert the card balance into cash and then disappear. the phone or ta�ing and sending a picture. • �he scammer is able to �uic�ly convert the card balance into cash and then disappear. • �his tactic is common in impostor scams –a call from �ocial �ecurity warns of a problem with your account; a utility company call warns of an imminent shutoff; you’ve won big in a lottery and just need to pay some fees upfront; your grandchild faces a financial emergency. the phone or ta�ing and sending a picture. • �he scammer is able to �uic�ly convert the card balance into cash and then disappear. • �his tactic is common in impostor scams –a call from �ocial �ecurity warns of a problem with your account; a utility company call warns of an imminent shutoff; you’ve won big in a lottery and just need to pay some fees upfront; your grandchild faces a financial emergency. • • �he scammer is able to �uic�ly convert the card balance into cash and then disappear. • �his tactic is common in impostor scams –a call from �ocial �ecurity warns of a problem with your account; a utility company call warns of an imminent shutoff; you’ve won big in a lottery �his tactic is common in impostor scams –a call from �ocial �ecurity warns of a problem with your account; a utility company call warns of an imminent shutoff; you’ve won big in a lottery and just need to pay some fees upfront; your grandchild faces a financial emergency. �hat you should �now� • ������� you are directed to pay some fee or obligation by purchasing a gift card and �hat you should �now� • ������� you are directed to pay some fee or obligation by purchasing a gift card and sharing the numbers off the bac�� it is a scam. and just need to pay some fees upfront; your grandchild faces a financial emergency.sharing the numbers off the bac�� it is a scam. • �f you are confronted by someone directing you to buy gift cards for some obligation� • �f you are confronted by someone directing you to buy gift cards for some obligation� disengage immediately. �hat you should �now��hat you should �now�disengage immediately. • �eport it to the �ederal �rade �ommission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. �he data are used to identify trends and build cases against criminals. • �eport it to the �ederal �rade �ommission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. �he data are used to identify trends and build cases against criminals. • ������� you are directed to pay some fee or obligation by purchasing a gift card and • • • ������� you are directed to pay some fee or obligation by purchasing a gift card and sharing the numbers off the bac�� it is a scam. • �f you are confronted by someone directing you to buy gift cards for some obligation� disengage immediately. • �eport it to the �ederal �rade �ommission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. �he data are used to identify trends and build cases against criminals. sharing the numbers off the bac�� it is a scam. �f you are confronted by someone directing you to buy gift cards for some obligation� disengage immediately. �eport it to the �ederal �rade �ommission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. �he data are used to identify trends and build cases against criminals.
�o learn more aboutgift card payment scams� visitaarp.org�giftcards. �o learn more aboutgift card payment scams� visitaarp.org�giftcards. �or help determining if something is legitimate� or if you have e�perienced a �or help determining if something is legitimate� or if you have e�perienced a scam�call the���� �raud �atch �etwor� �elpline at ��������������. scam�call the���� �raud �atch �etwor� �elpline at ��������������. ���� �raud �atch �etwor�
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Hospice:
Is the time right?
Hospice care is comprehensive, person-centered care provided by an interdisciplinary care team in the comfort of your own home. For those who qualify, hospice is 100% covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and Hospice care is comprehensive, person-centered care provided by most private insurances. an interdisciplinary care team in the comfort of your own home. We understand that making decisions about the care that’s right for you or your loved ones may be For those who qualify, hospice is 100% covered by Medicare, difficult. Our team is here to help. Use the questions below to help guide your decision making. If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, it may be time to connect with our team to learn Medicaid, and most private insurances. more about how we support families through their healthcare journey. We understand that making decisions about the care that’s right •Have they been hospitalized multiple times in the last six months? •Have they increased the frequency or dosage of medication to ease their physical pain? for you or your loved ones may be di cult. Our team is here to •Have they been frequently seeking physician’s assistance either by phone or in person visits? help. Use the questions below to help guide your decision •Have they started to become less active and more sedentary for most of the day? making. If you answer yes to one or more of the following •Have they grown weaker or noticeably more tired? questions, it may be time to connect with our team to learn more •Have they had recent weight loss or begun eating less? about how we support families through their healthcare journey. •Have they become short of breath, even while rested or relaxed? •Have they been diagnosed with a chronic progressive or life limiting illness?
Hospice: Is the time right?
• Have they been hospitalized multiple times in the last six months? • Have they increased the frequency or dosage of medication to ease their physical pain? • Have they been frequently seeking physician’s assistance either by phone or in person visits? • Have they started to become less active and more sedentary for most of the day? • Have they grown weaker or noticeably more tired? • Have they had recent weight loss or begun eating less? • Have they become short of breath, even while rested or relaxed? • Have they been diagnosed with a chronic progressive or life limiting illness?
Wewanttohelpguideyouandyourlovedonesalongyourhealthcarejourney. Hospice care is comprehensive, person-centered care provided by an interdisciplinary care team in the comfort of your own home. For those who qualify, hospice is 100% covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and We’llbetherewhenthetimeisright. most private insurances. We understand that making decisions about the care that’s right for you or your loved ones may be difficult. Our team is here to help. Use the questions below to help guide your decision making. If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, it may be time to connect with our team to learn more about how we support families through their healthcare journey. •Have they been hospitalized multiple times in the last six months? •Have they increased the frequency or dosage of medication to ease their physical pain? •Have they been frequently seeking physician’s assistance either by phone or in person visits? •Have they started to become less active and more sedentary for most of the day? •Have they grown weaker or noticeably more tired? •Have they had recent weight loss or begun eating less? •Have they become short of breath, even while rested or relaxed? •Have they been diagnosed with a chronic progressive or life limiting illness?
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BY LAURA LATZKO
Caregiving is personal for Tina Gillette of Senior HomeCare of Tucson.
She was schooled in hospice when her mother was visited by a nurse twice weekly. Still, the caregiving largely fell on Gillette and her sister.
She had two small children at the time, but with the help of her husband and his family she could care for her mom. It was challenging but rewarding at the same time because she could sit with her mother.
She parlayed her knowledge into Senior HomeCare of Tucson 10 years ago a er working as a medical transcriber, an o ce manager for a sports medicine clinic and an admin for an orthopedic surgeon.
Caregivers provide a range of services, including assisting with bathing, showering or visiting the restroom; going to doctors’ appointments or the store; taking care of skin or oral needs; housekeeping; preparing meals and caring for pets. ey also provide respite breaks for family members caring for their loved ones.
e level of care needed can range from 12 hours a week to 24 hours a day.
Based in Oro Valley, Senior HomeCare of Tucson serves Tucson, Sun City Oro Valley, Marana, Casas Adobes, Catalina, Dove Mountain, SaddleBrooke, the Catalina Foothills, Rancho Vistoso and Sabino Canyon.
“ is is a business that started in a 10-by-10 room in my home,” she said. “It’s woman-owned and has been for 10 years. I grew it from the ground up, with no help from a franchise.” ree years ago, the company was a nalist in the Better Business Bureau of Southern Arizona’s Torch Awards. In 2018, they were named Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year and were honored as one of the nalists in the outstanding senior care/hospice category at the In uential Health and Medical Leaders Awards.
Gillette is a member of two national organizations that provide guidelines for caregiving businesses, the Homecare Association of America and the Independent Home Care Alliance.
When Gillette founded the business, it was important to align with reputable national caregiving organizations because ethics are important to her.
Gillette will o en share information with families about available resources, such as government programs that provide assistance for equipment or supplies.
Many senior clients have family members who live out of the area. Gillette said in this type of situation, it is important to keep their families informed on their care.
“We pride ourselves on communication with the families,” she said.
Gillette learned rsthand the mental, emotional and physical toll of caregiving and the need for self-care.
“You have to make sure you receive adequate rest and relief from others, otherwise you will not be able to give your all to that person,” Gillette said.
Being able to be there for her mother during her last few months was meaningful for Gillette. She said while this stage is o en emotional, it is important to celebrate their lives and accomplishments.
“Your words may be their last, so always express what you feel,” Gillette advised.
The founder of Senior HomeCare of Tucson, Tina Gillette has found that many caregivers develop special relationships with longtime
clients. (Tina Gillette/Submitted)
Senior HomeCare of Tucson
1171 E. Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, Suite 155, Oro Valley 520-355-4787 seniorhomecareo ucson.com
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Our Story
Gary Ross
Gary and Dan Ross are no strangers to mobility challenges. Gary injured his back while on acti ve duty and underwent back surgery in 2010. While the surgery was a success, Gary routi nely suff ers from low back pain and spasms, which oft en require the use of a mobility device. Gary’s mother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and Dan’s mother required two knee replacement surgeries. These experiences led to the realizati on that there was a huge need for local mobility stores across the United States with trained mobility consultants who understand mobility challenges and can off er mobility soluti ons. Aft er researching business opportuniti es for over a year, Gary and Dan decided to open several Mobility Plus franchises in the Tucson area where you can get your scooter or powerchair batt eries tested for free, talk to friendly mobility consultants about your unique challenges, rent mobility equipment for short-term soluti ons, purchase mobility equipment for long-term soluti ons, and receive quality service and repairs by trained technicians.
“We exist to improve lives,” says Gary Ross, Mobility Consultant and Co-Owner. Please call us to ask questi ons, share your concerns, or to schedule a private consultati on. We invite you to visit our showrooms in Tucson and Oro Valley. We are here for you and we would love to meet you and help you fi nd the mobility soluti ons to meet your individual needs. “ ” “Maintaining your independence while aging in place is what we aim to off er all of our clients,” says Dan Ross, Mobility Consultant and Co-Owner.
