We begin with a brief history of the Mariachi tradition, addressing questions such as: What is the tradition? Why is dance part of the tradition? Most importantly, where does Tucson fit into the mariachi tradition? The majority of the presentation will focus on the Tucson International Mariachi Conference (TIMC), a non-profit entity of La Frontera Arizona. We’ll discuss how the Conference has evolved over the years and the impact it’s had at the local, national and international levels, including on thousands, perhaps millions, of students. The Conference began downtown and with its return to downtown in 2021, and in the context of a new, highly developed and vibrant downtown environment, there’s an opportunity to partner with various organizations, such as the Rotary Club of Tucson, Rio Nuevo, City of Tucson, and the business community, to develop an annual week-long mariachi festival that can help brand Tucson, much like the Riverwalk has branded San Antonio. Indeed, Mariachi can be integrated into all other Tucson cultural and athletic events throughout the year. The presentation will conclude with a video on the Conference and a Q&A session with Drs. Ranieri and Fernández and Dan Buckley.

 

 

Dr. Celestino Fernández served as Professor of Sociology at the University of Arizona for 39 years (retired July 2015), where he also served in several administrative positions, including as Vice President for Academic Outreach and International Affairs. He taught courses and conducted research on various topics pertaining to culture, including happiness and Mexican music. He has published over 50 articles and book chapters. Dr. Fernández continues to consult and lecture throughout the world. He completed both the M.A. and Ph.D. at Stanford University.  For 35 years, Dr. Fernández served on the Board of the Tucson International Mariachi Conference and now serves on the Board of La Frontera Arizona.

This Mystery Editor is going to write in the first person.  I was personally welcomed with mask on and normal temperature by PRESIDENT JEN HOFFMAN. I felt it a privilege to attend a very informative and inspiring Rotary meeting at Hacienda del Sol Resort in the “era” of the Covid-19 challenge.

 

Our Moment of Silence for the passing of member PETER BEAHAN’S wife, Marjie, sent our respect and love to the BEAHAN family.

 

PHIL ACEDO, with Tucson Environment Services, led us in our patriotic pledge and song.  PRESIDENT JEN introduced us in video to “4 year-old super hero” Austin who distributed food to those in need on the streets of Birmingham, Alabama, always with the admonition, “don’t forget to show love.”  PRESIDENT JEN welcomed all Rotarians and the unknown number of “viewers watching virtually.”

 

I get pretty charged up when PAST PRESIDENT BOB LOGAN takes the dais.  He never fails to bring out our best.  His introduction of Lindsey Parsons’ virtual program “Natural Ways to Boost Your Immunity” got us to look up and listen to a most informative presentation.  Lindsey, as a Certified Health Coach and head of High Desert Health, encouraged all of us to commit to a better diet, more exercise and more contemplative time—even more sleep-- which will boost immunity and lessen our stress.  “It is never too late to change.”  Lindsey offered a free 1-hr. Breakthrough Session.  Thank you, Lindsey, for helping us cope with COVID.

 

Happy birthday, ART ALLIS, who rejoined RCoT in 1992 and has been invaluable to our club.

 

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS GARY OLSEN, you were great with your 6-ft. mic wand!  We now know that Rotary advocates Peace Through Water Education worldwide.  PRESIDENT JEN ran 78 miles in August and thanked those who are sponsoring her run.  BRUCE JACOBS: “consider a replacement social mixer on 9/30.”  PRESIDENT ELECT MARK IRVIN showed us how to sell large quantities of TCCS raffle tickets online.  JOE DANISZEWSKI reports we have exceeded ticket sales by 3,000 over last year. 

 

PAST PRESIDENT CHUCK SAWYER presented a Blue Badge to new member, WES WIGGINS.  WES is Director for the Zillow Group and will be a great asset to our Rotary.  Congratulations WES!

 

Looking forward to a presentation on Tucson’s International Mariachi Conference next week!!

My fellow Rotarians,

 

I have laced up my running shoes and started #runningforrotary. I usually run 12-18 miles per week or 48-72 miles per month. You can find a form on our website www.tucsonrotary.org, under the “Member Area” tab, top right corner of the home page, or request one from Dorinna or Kari. You can sponsor me mile for mile for a month, a few months or the entire year. Your donations will go to the area of your choice for our Rotary Club Foundation or even Rotary International. How far do you think I will go #runningforrotary this year?  I would like to thank those members who have already signed up and pledged a donation.

 

Thank you for your support,

 

President Jen

2020-2021