MIDTOWN NEWS
This is your GARDEN DISTRICT NEWSLETTER October 2000
THE VICE PREZ SEZ…
We had a terrific meeting in September—40 or so people were there—and lots of great discussions. Those of you who didn’t make it missed a good one. We have lots of exciting things coming up—in October we have both our annual Halloween party for students in the neighborhood (at Wright School) and our fund raiser at the annual Chili Festival at the Botanical Gardens. We are looking for volunteers to help at either or both events!
SEPTEMBER SUMMARY
Our guest for this month’s meeting was Corina Chavez, Tucson Police Department, Midtown Division. Corina introduced herself as a 15-year veteran of TPD and former patrol officer on the Eastside. She noted that one of her current jobs is to be a liaison between the Crime Prevention Unit in various neighborhoods and the greater Tucson area. She related that reported serious crime in the Midtown area has been quite low over the past six months: One aggravated assault and two larcenies (motor vehicles). She also noted that there were numerous reports of suspicious activities that are an indication of strong neighborhood involvement (Way to go, neighbors!). Corina also works with Neighborhood Watch programs. Brad noted that if anyone wishes to start a new Watch they should contact Officer Frank Domanico or Corina Chavez at 791-4450.
UPDATES
John B. Wright: Lisa Langford reports that John B. Wright has five new teachers and 80-90 new, unplanned students, bringing the total enrollment to over 600 students. Lisa pointed out new reading murals painted on the walls of the cafeteria. These murals are a first step in building what Lisa calls a "Literacy Mansion." They were painted by Catalina High School volunteers. Fry’s receipts will be collected differently this year. Instead of bringing in receipts, the PTA will distribute "credit cards" that are swiped once at Fry’s, and all subsequent purchases from your regular Fry’s VIP card will be credited to John B. Wright. Wright is also collecting pull-tops from soda cans to support the Ronald McDonald House and soup labels to buy equipment for the school.
Computer Club/Bike Club: David Kha noted that the Bike Club has taken over his backyard! David will be working with volunteers from Americorp to build a bike club at Doolen Middle School. When their club is ready, he will donate several bikes to help get them started. David will be working with Mildred Kennedy of St. Vincent de Paul Society to set up a computer club at the SVDP facility. He will teach a six-week training course while training volunteers to take over for him. David is also selling Entertainment Books again this year to help raise money for the Bike Club. If you would like a book, please contact David at 323-8278.
Green Retrofit Program: There is a reward for information leading to the conviction of the vandal who violated the public improvements on Bellevue Street. If you have any information, please call Brad Holland at 327-2558. The police are working with us, and we will continue to work together as a neighborhood to make our homes and streets safer and more beautiful.
ANNOUNCEMENT
2000 Trees by 200l: Margaret Leonard is planning a tree planting for November 11th. If you would like trees for your street please call Margaret ASAP at 323-5049. This is a great way to beautify our neighborhood and it’s cheap! The trees are provided to us by Trees for Tucson and will range in price from $3.00 to $6.00.
Annual John B. Wright Halloween Party: October 27th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. We need volunteers to donate candy, to help in the game booths, and to sell hot dogs. If you would like to help out, please contact Martha Cooper at 327-4733.
Annual Chili Festival at the Botanical Gardens: October 28th and 29th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Flower Angel of the Month Goes to: Ted and Denna Malchow from David Kha and Martha Cooper. David and Martha have noticed what a great job they do to keep the neighborhood looking great!
Next Meeting
October 17, 2000
6:30 p.m. Potluck
7:00 p.m. Meeting
John B. Wright School