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Club Information
Welcome to our Club!
Tucson Kino

Dream Big, Have Fun & Get Stuff Done!

We meet In Person
Fridays at 7:00 a.m.
Meeting Online - Not meeting in person.
Mailing Address
PO Box 13725
Tucson, AZ 85732-3725
United States of America
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Home Page Stories
Wreaths Across America
 
On Saturday December 16, Tucson Kino Rotary was represented at the Holy Hope Cemetery by three members, Dennis Bergquist, David and Joan Fawcett.
 
Joan and Dennis prepare to lay some wreaths
 
After a color guard presented the colors, a bugler played Taps along with heartwarming stories before 2,700 wreaths were laid on Veteran's graves by one hundred volunteers.
 
2700 wreaths make quite a pile!
 
This was the 13th year of Wreaths Across America at this location. Wreaths are laid by volunteerrs at over 4,500 locations across the US and at American Cemeteries in Europe.
 
New Information: In 2023, 3,000,000 wreath were placed in over 4,500 location! In Arlington National Cemetery alone, 30,000 volunteers placed 260,000 wreaths!
 
Holy Hope Cemetery Veteran's Section
properly decorated for the holidays
2023 FALL CHARACTER AWARDS
On November 17, the Tucson Kino Rotary Club honored nine area high school students with Character Awards. Awardees are nominated by school administrators, counselors, teachers, or other students.
 
The Tucson Kino Rotary Club established the Spring and Fall Character Awards in 2011 to honor high school students who serve as role models in their schools and in society via service to the community. Also, for their acting in accordance with the Rotary 4-Way Test.
 
Of the things we think, say or do:
  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
This Fall, the 2023 Character Award Recipients are:
  • Adriana Najar, Alta Vista High School
  • Alma Johnson Juan, Baboquivari High School
  • Faye Stiner, Cholla High School
  • Farah Abdulkader Alghaithi, Desert View High School
  • Ann Marie Sida, PPEP TEC High School
  • Maria Campos Tapia, Pueblo Magnet High School
  • Taylor Crouch, Star Academic High School
  • Mia Gonzales, Sunnyside High School
  • Yatsel Lopez, Toltecalli High School
The students were recognized at a community breakfast attended by family and representatives from each school. Each honoree received a Certificate of Recognition, a Rotary 4-Way Test coin, small gifts and a $50 gift card. In addition, Tucson Kino Rotary will donate $50 to a charity of each student’s choice.
 
Learn more about Tucson Kino Rotary at www.kinorotary.org.
 
The 2023 Fall Character Award Recipients
l to r: Committee Chair and Kino Rotary President Emma Carrillo, students Mia Gonzales’ Mother, Taylor Crouch, Farah Abdulkader Alghaithi, Faye Stiner, Yatsel Lopez, Ann Marie Sida, Maria Campos Tapia’s Sister, Alma Johnson Juan and Adriana Najar
 
(Mia Gonzales of Sunnyside High School and Maria Tapia of Pueblo High School could not attend
but their mother and sister respectively accepted their Awards.)
On November 7, 2023, the University of Arizona Rotaract Club held a fundraiser using Bingo games. Several Tucson Kino members attended as well as Rotarians from several other clubs. Several different bingo formats were used. Rotaractors had made prizes to be given to the winners.
 
 
This Editor won twice and selected two potted plants in pots that were hand-decorated by the students. Other prizes included Rotaract Tee-shirts and Rotaract ball point pens. Snacks and beverages were provided by the Rotaract Club. Kino Rotarians agreed that the event was a lot of fun and quite successfull!
Join us at this fun event or help by making a donation. To learn about our 16th Annual Golf Tournament to be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the Randolph Golf Club click on "Golf Tournament" on the left side of this page. We look forward to your participation.
CHARACTER AWARDS
On April 14, the Tucson Kino Rotary Club honored nine area high school students with Character Awards. Awardees are nominated by school administrators, counselors, teachers, or other students.
The Tucson Kino Rotary Club established the Spring and Fall Character Awards in 2011 to honor high school students who serve as role models in their schools and in society via service to the community.
The Spring 2023 the Character Award Recipients are:
 
  • Leya Miranda, Alta Vista High School
  • Arsean James Bozo, Baboquivari High School
  • Jonathan Herrera, Cholla High School
  • Marissa Partida, Desert View High School
  • Yasenia Ulate, Envision High School
  • Jasmin Castro Salazar, PPEP TEC High School
  • Frida Bustamante, Pueblo Magnet High School
  • Jonathan A. Reyes, Star Academic High School
  • Sarai Juarez, Sunnyside High School
The students were recognized at a community breakfast attended by family and representatives from each school. Each honoree received a Certificate of Recognition, a Rotary 4-Way Test coin, and a $50 gift card. In addition, Tucson Kino Rotary will donate $25 to a charity of each student’s choice.
 
The 2023 Spring Character Award Recipients
l to r: Student Leya Miranda, Awards Co-Chair and Club President Emma Carrillo, students Jasmin Castro Salazar, Jonathan A. Reyes, Sarai Juarez, Frida Bustamante, Arsean James Bozo, Jonathan Herrera, Marissa Partida and Yasenia Ulate
 
 
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the students were presented with cupcakes baked by fellow award winner Leya Miranda just for the occasion!
 
Also at the event were two special guests, Isabel Garcia and Esteban Macias, who were given Character Awards last November. They spoke of the great honor they felt when they were selected and how it inspired them to do even more at their school and in other situations.
 
Learn more about Tucson Kino Rotary at www.kinorotary.org.
PEACE POLE DEDICATION AT RINCON COUNTRY WEST RV RESORT
 
Here is a link to a video about the event:
 
 
On a beautiful February 24th, Tucson Kino Rotary helped unveil and dedicate a Peace Pole. It was placed in a Pollinator Garden located in the Rincon Country West RV Resort.
 
One of the founders of the Garden, Kathy Hutson, introduced it's history to Rincon residents and Rotarians not only from Tucson Kino but from several other states who were vacationing in the park.
 
Buck Crouch and David Fawcett
Unloading the Pole
 
 
Members Buck Crouch and Ada Adams Adding Cement and Checking for Plumb a Few Days Before the Dedication
 
President Emma Carrillo emceed the event. Debbie Haddock introduced Rotary District leaders Don Jorgenson, District Governor Elect and Elle Patterson, Past District Governor.
 
Also present was Tohono O'odham member Jesse  Navarro, Governmental Affairs Assistant at Tohono O'odham Nation, who spoke to the group about the significance of their lands and about the mountains which ring our city.
 
Jesse Navarro
 
 
Member David Fawcett told the audience about Rotary International, Tucson Kino Rotary and clubs in southern Arizona. He said Tucson Kino Rotary has installed five peace Poles in Tucson, one in Sells and, now, this newest one in the RV park.
 
Buck and John Palacio spoke about the process in getting the poles painted by the Sunnyside Automotive Class and getting the decals on the finished product.
 
The Peace Pole Has Been Unveiled
l - r Members Debbie Haddock, Dennis Bergquist, John Palacio, Buck Crouch, David Fawcett, Emma Carrillo and Joan Fawcett. Rotarian Dennis Rugg from Washington State is in the Foreground
 
Rincon RV Resort Side One and Two
 
Rincon RV Resort Side Three and Four
 
Tucson Kino Rotary Dedication Plate
 
Joan Fawcett introduced visiting Rotarians from her club in Prior Lake, MN who are here for the dedication and to attend the Rodeo, Dan and Karen Stanley. The Stanley's visited our club right before the pandemic and did a service project with us and Angel Heart Pajama Project at American Eat Company.
RUDY GARCIA PARK CLEAN-UP
 
Due to cold Temperatures on January 21 we postponed the clean-up until 9:00 am, February 11.
 
Park is located at 5001 S. Nogales Highway but enter from Irvington. Coffee, water and treats will be provided.
 
****
 
TUCSON GIRLS CHORUS
CHECK PRESENTATION
 
On January 21st, several Kino members traveled to the headquarters of the Tucson Girls Chorus. After hearing a rehearsal of the Advanced Girls Chorus, Kino Rotary presented a Lend A Hand donation check to Director Dr. Marcel Molina.
 
Members Debbie Haddock and Karen Barrera Presented the Donation Check To Dr. Molina
 
Our donation will support their scholarship program which will help 5 girls with their choir expenses. 
 
Rotarians in the group included Dennis Bergquist, Debbie Haddock, Karen and
Fil Barrera, David and Joan Fawcett
 
Tucson Kino Rotary Member Karen Barrera is a long time Board member of the Tucson Girls Chorus. The Chorus has entertained our club at several  social events.
 
****
 
PEACE POLE DEDICATION
 
Friday, February 24, 10:00 am. Rincon Country West RV Resort, 4555 S. Mission Road. Carpool if possible. The Peace Pole will be located in the Pollinator Garden. 
 
****
 
RILLITO RIVER CLEANUP
 
Saturday, March 4, Brandi Fenton Park, 3482 East River Road, 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Members, friends and family are encouraged to help! Invite potential Rotary members to come and see one of our great Service Projects.
 
On January 21st, several Kino members traveled to the headquarters of the Tucson Girls Chorus. After hearing a rehearsal of the Advanced Girls Chorus, Kino Rotary presented a Lend A Hand donation check to Director Dr. Marcel Molina.
 
image
Members Debbie Haddock and Karen Barrera Presented
the Donation Check To Dr. Molina
 
Our donation will support their scholarship program which will help 5 girls with their choir expenses. 
 
image
Rotarians in the group included Dennis Bergquist, Debbie Haddock,
Karen and Fil Barrera, David and Joan Fawcett
 
Tucson Kino Rotary Member Karen Barrera is a long time Board member of the Tucson Girls Chorus. The Chorus has entertained our club at several  social events.
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA
 
Tucson Kino Rotarians were represented at Holy Hope Cemetery in Tucson where almost 900 wreaths were placed on veteran's graves. Kino has been involved in this worthy project for many years.
 
At the ceremony this year were John Palacio, Raul and Chris Bejarano and David and Joan Fawcett.
 
image
Maria Marin
 
The organizer and emcee, Maria Marin, welcomes the volunteers. She and her husband lost their son Martin who was killed twelve years ago in the Middle East.
 
 
image
A Wreath for each branch of the service, and for KIA's and MIA's and the new Space Force
 
 
At the beginning of the ceremony, a TUSD Jr. ROTC unit presented the colors, a TUSD Choir sang the national Anthem and America the Beautiful. A violinist played Amazing Grace.
 
To get started on the wreath laying Maria asked a few of us to place service wreaths on graves one at a time. I was very honored when she asked me to place the Army wreath on her son, Martin Lugo's, grave. 
 
image
Laying  the wreath on the grave of
Sgt. Martin Lugo and saying his name out loud.
 
 
image
John Palacio prepares to place a wreath
 
 
image
Some of the hundreds of volunteers at
Holy Hope Cemetery
 
In all, 2.7 million wreaths were laid at 3,702 cemeteries. At Arlington National Cemetery alone, 257,000 wreaths were laid by 28,000 volunteers!
On Wednesday, December 9, a Peace Pole was dedicated at Elvira Elementary School in Tucson. Four third grade classes had been studying and writing about Peace leading up to the ceremony.
 
Nearly 100 Third Grade Students Paid Close Attention
 
 
Peace Pole Committee Members Buck Crouch and John Palacio Unveiled the Pole
 
Tucson Kino Rotary President, Emma Carrillo, introduced the many visitors to the students and staff.
 
President Emma Carrillo
 
Selected students from each class read what they had written about Peace.
 
Elvira Students will Remember This Day
 
 
Elvira Principal Andy Townsend spoke to the students about the meaning and the special location on the school grounds for the installation. Many trees have been planted in this area commemorating former students and faculty. One was especially poignant on this day -- see below.
 
****
 
Something special was added to this occasion - a check presentation was made to Mike Arias, founder of the Victoria Teresa Arias Foundation. Named for his daughter who passed away just as she was about to start her college career aiming toward a medical degree.
 
Mike had spoken to Tucson Kino Rotary in August of this year and the club decided to make a donation towards the college scholarships the foundation awards each year.
 
Mike Arias Accepts the Check from
President Emma Carrillo and Member Fil Barrera
 
Adding to the reason for holding the presentation, at Elvira, was the fact that Victoria had been a student here and a tree had been planted in this yard in commemoration of her passing five years ago. 
 
The Tree has GROWN!
 
Victoria was a very talented young woman. A portrait of her, wearing her Mariachi costume, is painted on a wall facing the yard.
 
Victoria Teresa Arias
TUCSON KINO ROTARY
CHARACTER AWARDS
On November 18, the Tucson Kino Rotary Club honored nine area high school students with Character Awards. Awardees are nominated by school administrators, counselors, teachers, or other students.
 
The Tucson Kino Rotary Club established the Spring and Fall Character Awards in 2011 to honor high school students who serve as role models in their schools and in society via service to the community.
 
This Fall, the Character Award Recipients are:
 
  • Samuel Carrillo, PPEP TEC High School
  • Esteban Macias, Desert View High School
  • Hakima Abdulkadir, Sunnyside High School
  • Dominic Ariaza, Alta Vista High School
  • Aritza Monge Morales, Pueblo Magnet High School
  • Isabel Garcia, Star Academic High School
  • Cecilia Antone, Baboquivari High School
  • Serene Matus, Cholla High School*
  • Mark Cordova, Toltecalli High School*
*Schools added for Fall, 2022
 
The students were recognized at a community breakfast attended by family and representatives from each school. Each honoree received a Certificate of Recognition, a Rotary 4-Way Test coin, and a $50 gift card. In addition, Tucson Kino Rotary will donate $25 to a charity of each student’s choice.
 
Learn more about Tucson Kino Rotary at www.kinorotary.org.
 
 
The 2022 Fall Character Award Recipients
l to r: Committee Co-Chairs Maria Patterson and Emma Carrillo, students Isabel Garcia, Serene Matus,
Dominic Ariaza, Mark Cordova, Esteban Macias, Samuel Carrillo, Hakima Abdulkadir,
and Aritza Monge Morales
(Cecelia Antone, Baboquivari High School, could not attend.)
PEACE POLE DEDICATION AND CHECK PRESENTATION
 
On Wednesday, December 9, a Peace Pole was dedicated at Elvira Elementary School in Tucson. Four third grade classes had been studying and writing about Peace leading up to the ceremony.
 
Nearly 100 Third Grade Students Paid Close Attention
 
 
Peace Pole Committee Members Buck Crouch and John Palacio Unveiled the Pole
 
Tucson Kino Rotary President, Emma Carrillo, introduced the many visitors to the students and staff.
 
President Emma Carrillo
 
Selected students from each class read what they had written about Peace.
 
Elvira Students will Remember This Day
 
 
 
Elvira Principal Andy Townsend spoke to the students about the meaning and the special location on the school grounds for the installation. Many trees have been planted in this area commemorating former students and faculty. One was especially poignant on this day -- see below.
 
****
 
Something special was added to this occasion - a check presentation was made to Mike Arias, founder of the Victoria Teresa Arias Foundation. Named for his daughter who passed away just as she was about to start her college career aiming toward a medical degree.
 
Mike had spoken to Tucson Kino Rotary in August of this year and the club decided to make a donation towards the college scholarships the foundation awards each year.
 
Mike Arias Accepts the Check from President Emma Carrillo and Member Fil Barrera
 
Adding to the reason for holding the presentation, here, was the fact that Victoria had been a student at Elvira and a tree had been planted in this yard in commemoration of her passing five years ago. 
 
The Tree has GROWN!
 
Victoria was a very talented young woman. A portrait of her, wearing her Mariachi costume, is painted on a wall facing the yard.
 
Victoria Teresa Arias
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
 
Tucson Kino Rotary held its Anniversary Celebration at the home of members Buck Crouch and Ada Adams. The evening celebrated:
  • Kino Rotary's 21st Anniversary of being accredited as a Club of Rotary International.
  • Dedication of a Peace Pole.
  • Induction of two new members.
  • And, last but not least, seeing each other in-person for one of the few times since the pandemic began
 
Kino Rotarians and the U of A Rotaract Club celebrating the dedication of our latest Peace Pole
 
Come join this happy group of committed volunteers from Rotary and Rotaract who know "Service Above Self " and know how to have a good time doing both! For more information on membership see kinorotary.org
The countdown begins! This charity event for the Tucson Kino Rotary Club which uses the proceeds for wonderful literacy projects that serve almost 2,500 students in and around Tucson. HAVE YOU SIGNED UP YET? There are still a few openings for foursomes in this Saturday, October 29 event. Come joins us in this four person scramble tournament with a lunch, prize drawings, and a silent auction. We have more prizes than ever this year. Look for the sign-up materials at kinorotary.org.

WHO:           Join us for a fun-filled day of golf! The 18-hole four-person, scramble tournament with shotgun start at 8:00 AM. It attracts participants from throughout Southern Arizona and includes contests, hole activities, benefit drawings, and opportunities to win individual and team prizes. The tournament will include a luncheon and a brief Awards Ceremony following the golf round.

WHAT:          15th Annual Rotary Golf Tournament

WHEN:          NEW DATE Saturday, October 29, 8:00 AM Shotgun Start

WHERE:        NEW LOCATION Silverbell Golf Course, 3900 North Silverbell Road, Tucson AZ

REGISTER:   Registration Form appears at bottom of page.

CONTACT:    Dr. Raul Bejarano, Chair, 520-481-5710, rbejarano64@gmail.com

WHY:             Our goal is to raise $18,000 to benefit the Tucson Kino Rotary Club's literacy and youth development activities. Proceeds raised from the golf tournament help:

1. To provide books and school supplies to kindergartners.

2. To provide dictionaries to third grade students.

3. To provide library books to elementary school libraries.

4. To provide Tucson Kino Rotary Character Awards to local high school students.

HOW:  The Tucson Kino Rotary Club presents one of the community’s best loved events, the 15th Annual Golf Tournament.

As a sponsor, you will receive widespread publicity through advertising, printed materials and signage at the golf course in addition to a fun-filled day of golf with games and contests featured on many of the holes.

There are ways in which your business can invest in literacy and youth development activities and support Tucson Kino Rotary’s 15th Annual Rotary Golf Tournament on October 29, 2022.

Corporate and individual sponsorship opportunities range from:

  • Pure Gold Sponsor at $1,000 includes prominent company ad recognition on all promotional materials and welcome banner. (100% tax deductible)
  • Gold Sponsor at $1,000 includes prominent company ad recognition on all promotional materials and welcome banner, and a golf foursome. ($764 is tax deductible)
  • Super Silver Sponsor at $500 includes company ad recognition on all promotional materials and welcome banner. (100% tax deductible)
  • Silver Sponsor at $500 includes company ad recognition on all promotional materials and a golf foursome. ($264 is tax deductible)
  • Copper Sponsor at $300 includes company ad recognition. (100% tax deductible)
  • Hole Sponsor at $100 per hole includes acknowledgment of your company’s name on a sign placed at a tee box. (100% tax deductible)
  • Cart Sponsor at $25 per golf cart includes company’s name placed on a golf cart. (100% tax deductible)
  • Foursome Golf Sponsor at $380. ($144 tax deductible)
  • Individual Golf Sponsor at $95. ($36 tax deductible)
  • Silent Auction and Raffle donation—your donations of prizes, admission tickets or gift certificates will be prominently recognized by Tucson Kino Rotary.
  • Golfer’s Goodie Bag donation- items with company logo items, golf tees, golf balls, hats, bags, and towels, sunscreen, bottled water, granola bars, pens, logo note pads, plus business cards or literature.
All sponsors, golfers, and donors are publicly recognized during the Awards Ceremony.
 

GOLF REGISTRATION FORM

Team Leader Contact Name:

Company Name: (as it should appear on signage)

Address: 

City:                                                                   Zip: 

Phone: 

Email:

Please select:

____ $1,000 Pure Gold Sponsor
____ $1,000 Gold Sponsor (includes 4-some golf)
____ $   500 Super Silver Sponsor
____ $   500 Silver Sponsor (includes 4-some golf)
____ $   300 Copper Sponsor
____ $   100 Hole Sponsor
____ $     25 Cart Sponsor
____ $   380 Foursome Golf Sponsor
____ $     95 Individual Golf Sponsor
 
Total Amount Enclosed: $ _________
 
____ I am not able to participate, but I would like to make a contribution to the Tucson Kino Rotary Club in support of its literacy programs.
____ Enclosed, you will find a donation for $ ___________.
____ I would like to donate an auction item.  Please contact me.

____ Check payable to Tucson Kino Rotary Club mailed to 5011 W. Paseo de las Estrellas, Tucson, AZ 85745

____ An invoice emailed to you that will allow you to pay electronically from your home or business (3% charge) 

____ For a tax deduction, check payable to ProvisionBridge, memo to Rotary Club of Tucson Kino Charitable Fund #15493.

Please send registration and check payable to Tucson Kino Rotary Club by October 19, 2022 to:

Raul Bejarano

Tucson Kino Rotary Club

5011 W Paseo de la Estrellas

Tucson, AZ 85745

Foursome Registration: Please fill out the registration form completely and print clearly.

Player #1

Name 

Address

City                                                     State                           Zip

Daytime Phone

Email 

 

Player #2

Name 

Address 

City                                                       State                          Zip 

Daytime Phone 

Email 

 

Player #3

Name 

Address 

City                                                        State                       Zip 

Daytime Phone 

Email

 

Player #4

Name 

Address 

City                                                       State                      Zip 

Daytime Phone 

Email 

OCOTILLO LEARNING CENTER BACKPACK DISTRIBUTION
 
On May 17th, six members of Tucson Kino Rotary presented backpacks containing school supplies and books to 150 students of the Ocotillo Learning Center. These students will move on to Kindergarten next fall. This is an annual event for the club.
 
Monique Soria, President Dennis Bergquist and Chris Bejarano Distribute Backpacks in A Classroom
 
Some of the Presentations Were Made Outdoors
 
Patti Lopez Helps Chris Bejarano
With The Backpacks
 
Monique Soria, Micky Ulrich and Chris Bejarano
Explain What the Students Will Find in Their New Backpacks
 
 
Thanks to Debbie Haddock who obtained all the items and packed the backpacks but could not be at the event this year. Also present but not pictured, was John Palacio who delivered all the items to the learning center.
ROTARACT DENTAL PROJECT
 
Ten members of the U of A Rotaract Club distributed over 400 Dental Hygiene packets to the students of the Santa Clara Elementary School.
 
The Rotaractor Club with School Staff
 
The project was supported by Tucson Kino Rotary and two other clubs. Four members of Tucson Kino Rotary were present to support the effort, Joan and David Fawcett, Chris Bejarano and Monique Soria.
 
 
The Package
 
Rotaract President Andy Le and Treasurer Ben Karls conducted the program instructing the students on proper dental hygiene.
 
The Students Were Active Participants Answering Questions About Dental Hygiene
 
Most of the Rotaractors Wore These Shirts.
 
Tucson Kino Rotary and the U of A Rotaract Club With Certificate of Appreciation from
Santa Clara Elementary School
Recently, Tucson Kino Rotary toured the wonderful facility on the campus. Here is some history of the lab:
 
"In 1937, the scientific study of tree-rings in America was formalized by the creation of the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research (LTRR) here at the University of Arizona in Tucson. By that time, founder Andrew Ellicott Douglass had been working with wood for over 30 years and so the tradition of dendrochronology here in Tucson is older than the Lab itself.
 
The LTRR has long since given up the distinction of being the nation's only dendrochronology lab, but we have helped to found many dendrochronology labs around the world.
 
Our unique heritage is still a source of pride, and it encourages us today to remain dedicated to our ideals: excellence in research, excellence in teaching, and excellence in outreach."
 
image
l - r, Joan FawcettChris Bejarano and her grandsons Elias and Noah,
Tree-Ring Docent Larry Allen, Monique Soria
and David Fawcett. Not pictured Raul Bejarano behind the camera.
 
Docent Larry talked about the history of the science, the construction of the present facility and let us see samples of tree slices, borings and photos of famous or unique trees.
 
image
Great Basin Bristlecone Pine
 
The Great Basin Bristlecone Pine (Pinus Longaeva) has been deemed the oldest tree in existence, reaching an age of over 5,000 years old. The Bristlecone pines' success in living a long life can be attributed to the harsh conditions it lives in.
 
In the lobby was this cross section of a Sequoia which was blown down in 1912. It started growing in the 3rd century CE (common era or AD).
 
image
Joan Fawcett is dwarfed by this
Wonderful Feat of Nature
 
Then we toured the facility including using a microscope to examine a boring, seeing photos taken by students and faculty, and learning more about the science. It was a very interesting morning and we highly recommend the tour.
 
For more information visit:
 
Members of Tucson Kino Rotary Took a Guided Tour of the Mission Gardens
 
Tucson Kino Rotarians visited and learned about Mission Gardens. The site was a mission, convent and agricultural center founded by Father Kino in the 1500's. But it had been occupied and farmed as long as 4,000 years ago.
 
Our tour was led by docent Jerome West, a very knowledgeable and personable guide.
 
Docent Jerome West Shows an Artist Conception
of the Site Before the Europeans Came
 
Jerome led us to the various sections of the Gardens describing how the Native Americans first came as hunter/gatherers and started planting crops such as corn which they may have left to grow on its own and returned later. They eventually settled on the land and grew corn, beans and squash.
 
l - r: David Fawcett, Monique Soria, Joan Fawcett,
Dennis Bergquist, Chris Bejarano, Odette Koffi,
Raul Bejarano, John Palacio and John's brother Duane
 
When the first Europeans arrived they brought new crops which were "winter" crops meaning the natives could have a steady supply of food year round. These included citrus, fruits, other vegetables and grapes. The only animal which the natives had domesticated were dogs and, perhaps, turkeys. Soon, horses and more types of fowl were commonly raised.
 
One of the newest areas in Mission Gardens will be an African garden. When Africans arrived, mostly as slaves, they brought seeds with them from their home countries. Garden personnel are trying to locate 400 year-old seed stock to plant.
 
Plaque By The Pomegranate Tree
 
A highlight of the tour was visiting the Pomegranate tree donated by Tucson Kino Rotary and Tucson Sunrise Rotary ten years ago. It is THRIVING!
 
 
Odette and Joan are Mystified by the
Never-before-seen Bottle Tree!
 
The tour finished with a visit to the Gift Shop!
 
For more information please visit:
On April 8, members of Tucson Kino Rotary presented dictionaries to third-grade students at the Southside Community School. Ms. Takara is the teacher.
 
Southside is the 23rd school we have donated dictionaries to this school year.
 
 
The Students Showing Off Their New Books!
In the back of the room are l - r: Kino Members David Fawcett, President Dennis Bergquist, Debbie Haddock, Liberkis Paulino (also on the staff of the school) and Joan Fawcett
 
The dictionaries are bought using proceeds from the Kino Rotary Golf Tournament, donations from Long Realty Cares, and donations from friends of Kino Rotary.
KINO ROTARY CHARACTER AWARDS
On April 8, the Tucson Kino Rotary Club honored seven area high school students with Character Awards. Awardees are nominated by school administrators, counselors, teachers, or other students.
 
The Tucson Kino Rotary Club established the Spring and Fall Character Awards in 2011 to honor high school students who serve as role models in their schools and in society via service to the community.
This spring, the Character Award Recipients are:
 
  • Stephanie Celaya, PPEP TEC High School
  • Jaquelyn Duarte, Desert View High School
  • Ricardo Echanove, Sunnyside High School
  • Kimberly Hernandez Guerrero, Alta Vista High School
  • Carlos Laphond Moreno, Pueblo Magnet High School
  • Victor Jesus Paraza, Star Academic High School
  • Stanislaus Venego, Baboquivari High School
 
The students were recognized at a community breakfast attended by family and representatives from each school. Each honoree received a Certificate of Recognition, a Rotary commemorative coin, and a $50 gift card. In addition, Tucson Kino Rotary will donate $25 to a charity of each student’s choice.
 
Learn more about Tucson Kino Rotary at www.kinorotary.org.
 
 
The 2022 Spring Character Awards Honorees:
l to r: Victor Jesus Peraza, Ricardo Echanove, Stephanie Celaya,
Jaquelyn Duarte, Stanislaus Venego, Carlos Laphond Moreno, and Kimberly Hernandez Guerrero
SITE VISIT -
GOSPEL RESCUE MISSION
 
Jim Brown, Outreach and Event Coordinator for Gospel Rescue Mission, Tucson, welcomed our group of nine Kino Rotarians at the H. S. Lopez Family Foundation Center of Opportunity.
 
Kino Rotarians were treated to a beautiful breakfast in the center's dining room, where 200 meals are served three times a day. Meals are served at the table, never in a line.
 
                                                             Sharing the Breakfast
 
The Gospel Rescue Mission complex has more than 30 community partners, including onsite offices for El Rio Health and the Department of Economic Security. La Frontera recently purchased an adjacent building to be used for low-income housing. 
 
The complex has a playground for children, prayer garden, chapel, library, computer lab and an athletic training room, where one of the quotes on the wall says "If it doesn't challenge you it won't change you." Planning is underway for a raised bed garden.
 
           Touring the Library
 
The housing, adapted from the previous use as a hotel, accommodates four people per double room, known as casitas. Rooms have plaques on the door to thank the room's sponsoring organization. Children also live onsite.
 
Gospel Rescue Mission Programs and Activities:
  • GRM's Shelter Program and Recovery Program have a total bed capacity for the two facilities of 409 beds. During the pandemic, the center was at half capacity but never closed.
  • Smart Schools for people to obtain high school diplomas.
  • A new partnership will bring Pima Community College classes onsite for culinary skills training.
  • The Donation Center provides clothing and furniture for people who are moving into places of their own.
  • Classes, group sessions and ministering are available for residents, who are often off-site for school and jobs.
  • The Genesis Process for recovery looks at why people choose destructive behaviors and how brain processes affect choices.
  • Every GRM guest is assigned an advocate to work with, to achieve recovery and get out of homelessness.
  • Women in recovery are at GRM's Women's Recovery Center on the north side of Tucson. Women commit to a year-long recovery program. 
 
Kino Members Tour a Converted Room
 
When asked what kind of help GRM needs, Mr. Brown said friends could, first of all, pray; donate funds since GRM is funded entirely by private donations; and volunteer - it could be once a week, once a month, or as a group to serve and clean up after meals. 
 
For more information:
MULCAHY YMCA PEACE POLES
 
A Peace Pole was presented to the Mulcahy YMCA Early Learning Center in a ceremony on April 21, 2021.
 
Eight members of the Tucson Kino Rotary Peace Pole Committee, chaired by member and President-Elect Dennis Bergquist, dedicated countless hours into the preparation and presentation of the Celebration of Peace Ceremony. Other Committee Members are Emma Carrillo, Buck Crouch, Debbie Haddock, Ralph Nickl, John Palacio, Maria Patterson, and Daniel Stringham.
 
Dennis Bergquist Emceed the Event
 
The stage was set with a long table upon which stood a mysterious three-foot tall item under wraps as the children marched out and a group of Rotarians and YMCA of Southern Arizona Metro Board Members stood by in anticipation.  Dennis began the celebration with an inspirational moment on Peace.
 
Debbie Haddock recognized Carolyn Schwartz, the Director of Youth Development for the YMCA of Southern Arizona, with a Paul Harris Fellow (an award given by Rotarians to outstanding community members) for her dedication to youth.  Emma Carrillo shared the history of the Peace Pole and Maria Patterson read the poem “Recipe for Peace” from the book Peaceful Pieces, by Anna Grossnickle Hines.
 
The Peace Pole was then revealed to the children and awaiting adults. Debbie presented 16 peace-themed books to the YMCA which will enhance their future peace discussions.  Beki Quintero, author of In the Peace Garden and the creator of the Peace Garden located in the Manuel Herrera Jr. Park, donated four copies of her book, and gave each child a packet of “Peace Seeds” to take home and plant. 
 
Carolyn Schwartz Received her Paul Harris Pin
 
Two children, Anabell Estrada and Zayleigh Clark, came forward and shared their thoughts on peace. 
 
About 60 Children Attended the Event
 
The traveling pole, constructed by John Palacio and Buck Crouch, is made of a light plastic on a wooden base.  This Peace Pole will go from room to room, and from YMCA to YMCA, and be the focal point of the peace lessons and activities developed by Emma Carrillo. Group leaders will use the pole to expand the children’s understanding of peace far into the future.  Debbie, Emma, and Maria hope to work with the YMCA students once Covid restrictions are lifted.  Fifteen proud members of the Tucson Kino Rotary Club were in attendance along with Past District Governor Ellie Patterson, District Peace Pole Chair Joe Daniszewski, and Rotarian Kurtis Dawson who is the CEO of the YMCA of Southern Arizona.  KGUN9 and KVOA4 news channels were there to record the event.  A short news piece with interviews appeared on KVOA4 at 4:25 and 5:25 pm that night.

 
 
Another taller, permanent pole, constructed out of metal to increase its durability, will be installed outside the Mulcahy YMCA entrance.  The message on the Peace Poles’ is in four languages -- English, Spanish, Yaqui, and Tohono O’odham, which represent the languages spoken most often in the Sunnyside School District. 
 
As a finale, all present recited the Peace Pledge and signed a Peace Poster:
 
PEACE PLEDGE
  • I pledge to treat everyone around me with respect, honor, dignity, and with an open mind
  • I will refrain from both physical violence and violence of the heart and mind
  • I will treat others as I want to be treated, so we all may reach our fullest potential
 
For more information, visit kinorotary.org.
 
On April 13, Tucson Kino Rotary, the Tucson Cyber Lions Club, and other community partners assembled and distributed over 130 Food and Toiletry Boxes that served 225 adults, 129 seniors, and 318 children. The event happened at the Opportunity Center at Los Ranchitos Annex of the Sunnyside Unified School District.
 
A Pop-Up Food Stand was also available for SNAP clients to purchase food and vegetables at reduced prices.
 
Araceli Mendoza, SUSD’s Homeless Liaison and ESSA Foster Care Point of Contact said, ”Way to go team! Thank you so much volunteers and community partners!”
 
The Bags are Ready
 
A Rewarding Experience for all the Volunteers