Veterans, Neighbors, Friends
By Ventura W. Tounsel (“Ace”)
It is January and on this month we will take out a day to celebrate the accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. King left an indelible mark on the U.S. military by putting his life on the line to ensure the real promise of democracy for all Americans.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was born on January 15, 1929. It is a date honored nationwide on the third Monday in January. He was one of the most important figures in American civil rights history. The celebration of Dr. King’s birthday has been sadly marked by some of the discrimination he fought so hard against. King’s birthday was not officially honored in all 50 states until the year 2000. Prior to that, some states combined his birthday in ways that would be quite controversial and unacceptable today.
You can see Dr. King’s fingerprint on today’s military. I can recall conversations that I have had with Veterans where they shared how they experienced more racism while home on leave than when they were on base because military leaders always took swift action whenever it raised its ugly head through the Uniform Code of Military Justice. King’s perseverance in the face of discrimination, racism and hatred ensured the real promise of democracy for all Americans. This month let us take time to reflect on King’s achievements and to educate the next generation. I must give credit to the Air Force and my family for pushing me into service and for my own ability to persevere.
The accomplishments of Dr. King gave me the same opportunities as every American to serve in the military alongside other Americans from all parts of the country and world, and a large part of my life success is because of the United States Air Force. I was a kid who thought I knew everything in the world and my mother was right; I did not. The Air Force made me grow up and be a man and taught me teamwork. Service, Excellence, and Integrity were the words I grew up on.
Thank you, Dr. Martin Luther King, a true American hero.
Here comes 2021 and goodbye 2020
By Charlotte Herdliska
Let’s make 2021 the best it can be! Happy New Year Everyone
Super Bowl Sunday is the United States’ second biggest day for food consumption. Now with COVID19 at its peak it seems that some of us have been spending a lot of time in the kitchen or ordering take-out (check the scales).
Sadly, because of Covid many are going without things we used to take for granted: a paycheck, housing, family, friends and just normal times. With social distancing and folks having to forgo large gatherings this year we find ourselves wondering what to do, how to do, where to do and just plain unable to do. I’ve spoken to many of our district residents over the last 11 months and hear very often “how can I help?” and “where can I get assistance?” Well, how about some of these suggestions?
How can I help? Volunteer!
Many non-profits are always looking for volunteers, usually as little or as much time as you can spare.
How can I help? Donate!
You can donate food, clothing, and hygiene items. By cleaning out your pantry, grabbing items on sale at the supermarket and other holiday sales events, even a few dollars spent can pack a punch! Even old towels and blankets can be donated to Animal Shelters! Many non-profit organizations always accept donations, offer assistance and need volunteers. The Food Banks are especially in need of food donations this time of year and you can drop off donations locally at the Corona de Tucson Fire Stations or any of the various Food Bank around the county.
If you need assistance or want to donate here’s a list of just a few of the resources available at local non-profits:
Corona Cares- supports our district residents, with COVID there are some restrictions now, but they still offer prescription pick-ups, errands and grocery shopping done for you (sorry no rides at this time). Wheelchairs, transport chairs, shower stools and walkers are available on loan for as long as you need. Call Ellie at Corona Cares 520-395-9327.
Passion 4 PAWS -is a 501c3 charity and is always looking for foster homes, kennels and unopened food. You can contact Andrea at: passion4pawssoaz@outlook.com, or on facebook – passion4Paws.SouthernArizona.
ReSources Vail Food Bank (you can also volunteer) at 13105 E Colossal Cave Rd #6775, Vail, AZ 85641. Tue., Wed, Friday: 11:00 – 2:00pm serves zip codes 85641 and 85747. ReSources Vail Food Bank partners with the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona to distribute emergency food bags each month to low-income seniors, individuals and families in need. For more information, please go to: resourcesvail.org
Other close by non-profits:
Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona (you can also volunteer). Food Distribution hours and location: Currently distributing food at Kino Sports Complex at 2500 E. Ajo Way on the South side of the road next to Banner South Hospital. This is a drive-through food distribution. Open on Tuesdays and Thursday from 8:00am – 11:00am.
Diaper Bank of Southern Arizona (you can also volunteer). 1050 S Plumer Ave. (520) 325-1400, Tucson, AZ 85719. In need of Diapers (sizes 5 & 6) and Adult– you can drop off donations locally at the Corona de Tucson Fire stations or the Diaper Bank.
YOTO (Youth on their own): YOTO.org (you can also volunteer). 1660 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712, 520-293-1136. Accepting donations and offering assistance to our school age youths that find themselves on their own.
Gospel Rescue Mission, 4550 S Palo Verde Rd, Tucson AZ 85717, 520-740-1501. Programs include shelter, recovery, employment, housing, and outreach. Will gladly accept non-perishable food items, (clean) clothing, hygiene and baby items, complete bed sets and other and much more. Give them a call.
Safety message for 2021: If your home is over 10 years old, your smoke detectors are too. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years. Please contact your Fire Marshal for assistance and recommendations on how and when to replace.
Happy New Year Everyone, Stay Safe Out There!
For fire safety and burn prevention information, please contact your local fire marshal:
Corona de Tucson Fire Marshal: Charlotte Herdliska at 520-762-9370, cherdliska@coronafire.org
Rincon Valley Fire: 520-647-3760, tmooney@rinconvalleyfd.org
