Oro Valley Town Council voted 5-2 to approve the town’s $93.9 million budget on Wednesday evening.

Northwest Fire District’s governing board approved a contract for Michael J. Brandt to become its fire chief, dropping the “interim” from his current title when the two-year contract kicks in on May 28.

Pima Animal Care Center thanks the veterans who have made it possible for the rest of us to have the freedom to support community causes that matter to us, such as addressing the problem of homeless pets.

(BPT) - The sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and pollen counts are soaring ... and that means millions of Americans are dealing with the sneezing and wheezing that comes with seasonal allergies. While allergies are sometimes considered an uncomfortable nuisance, for the 25 million Americans with asthma, seasonal allergies can trigger serious attacks that if not managed properly could lead to a visit to the ER. In fact, asthma is responsible for half a million hospitalizations each year – 60 percent of which are caused by patients not taking their medication as prescribed.

(BPT) - Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new puppy. Whether Chihuahua or Great Dane, a pup’s playful antics delight people of all ages. Having a dog can bring many years of companionship and precious memories, but before you ask, “How much is that doggie in the window?” consider a few expert tips for positive housetraining.

(BPT) - New jobs, first jobs, relationships and looking for a change in weather – these are just a few reasons people have for moving. Most families move during the warmer months, and many choose to move to warmer locations.

(BPT) - Warm weather is here, bringing barbecues, picnics and more time spent outdoors. Everyone should be able to enjoy these popular pastimes, including the up to six million Americans at risk for a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. For these people, a bee sting, shrimp on the barbecue or a latex balloon may lead to a life-threatening emergency. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place to help avoid allergens and be prepared if accidental contact occurs.

(BPT) - Imagine what it’s like to slowly lose your vision over time - until one day you no longer can read, see the faces of loved ones or participate in your favorite hobbies. While most people accept achy joints or muscle weakness as part of the aging process, eyesight is a critical factor in maintaining a high quality of life and independence.

(BPT) - Often, we don’t think about heroism until we see it in action - when disaster strikes and ordinary people exhibit extraordinary courage and compassion to help victims in their time of need. The truth is, however, that the best of human nature is on display every day in the lives of millions of Americans who work in public service jobs across the country. Sometimes all it takes to tap that inner hero is an opportunity – and the education – to serve others.

(NewsUSA) - For those parents who never imagined their ailing babies and toddlers could be helped by chiropractic care, it may be time for some rethinking.

(NewsUSA) - Many of the key provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act -- better known as ObamaCare -- are already coming into effect this year.

(NAPSI)—You may have more in common with a race car driver than you realize. Consider this: When he’s not busy at the racetrack, NASCAR star Greg Biffle likes to slow down and unwind at home. Like other homeowners, Biffle and his wife Nicole are eager to create a warm, welcoming environment for guests while protecting their investment.

(NAPSI)—If you or someone you care about is among the one in five people affected by dyslexia-a disability that makes reading difficult-there may be good news for you.

(NAPSI)—While some think of North Africa as a region of turmoil and unrest half a world away, one nation has emerged as a leader, demonstrating a commitment to cooperation and regional security that can ultimately benefit the interests of the U.S.

When Ironwood Ridge sophomore Brandon McKay decided to learn Japanese to carry on his mother’s heritage, he wasn’t expecting an award to come with it.

After 14-year-old Austin Thacker, of Legacy Traditional School , was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Diffused Mature B Cell Lymphoma, fellow students and the community have come together to make things a little easier on the family. 

Several months back, I wrote an editorial on bad customer service, and the trials and tribulations we go through with automated services, a lack of caring from certain businesses, and the trouble we sometimes go through to get quality service.

Century Theatres

(BPT) - Learning that you have a disease or medical condition can be overwhelming. You need to learn more about your condition. You may get advice from all directions – from well-meaning friends and family, the Internet, magazines, newspapers and television. But in the end, you want to understand your treatment options so that you can discuss your choices with your health care provider.

(BPT) - Today, the majority of adults have a mobile phone, and we’re using it for far more things than simply making phone calls. According to a 2012 report from The Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project, of the 85 percent of American adults who own a cellphone, 85 percent use their cellphones to take photos.

MR. CARNEY:  Thanks for joining us on this quick trip to New York City.  You heard, obviously, the President today in his press conference with the Prime Minister.  So I hope that you found that helpful and useful, but I am here also to take your questions.  Anybody have anything?

Nurses are often the first health care provider a patient meets. Whether they’re helping someone during a health crisis, involving the family in a patient’s care, or assisting with a medical treatment, nurses bring a wealth of medical knowledge, compassion and dedication to their jobs every day. The importance of nurses cannot be overstated, yet there is a shortage of nursing professionals in this country.

(BPT) - Every day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Not everyone will sign up, but it’s important to understand the importance of early choices when enrolling in Medicare for the first time.