march 2015 fence post ths -...
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The Fence PostThree Points/Robles Junction
Community Newsletter
March, 2015
Spring Is Here! Time to Garden!
I Love To GardenBy Trish Hastings-Sargent
I love to Garden. When John and I moved to Arizona from Massachusetts, all our good weather here inspired us to garden. Our first plant purchases either died or were eaten by bunnies.
John and I wanted a garden, and all we seemed to do is waste our money on plants. I read about the U of A Extension Service Master Gardeners program. I attended all their free Wednesday lectures. They were very helpful. I am now on their mailing list.
I thought our readers would be interested in the following is an except from their most current newsletter.
Sonoran Seasons Pima County Master Gardener Newsletter Spring 2015
Helping you become a more successful gardener
Spring Gardening Reminders--For a complete overview of planning, preparing, planting, and caring for a winning vegetable garden, click on Ten Steps to a Successful Vegetable Garden.
March Average last frost date is mid-March. Plant Warm Season Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers,
eggplant, cucumber, summer squash, melon, and sweet corn.
Prune frost-damaged plants such as bougainvillea and lantana.Plant trees and shrubs of all types, including citrus. March is a good time to plant new landscape plants. Check and adjust your irrigation system.
April Protect young plants from wildlife. The best way to keep out critters is to fence them out with poultry or woven wire fencing The wire fencing should be two to three feet high.
Look for aphids feeding on the new growth of vegetable plants, flowers, roses, oleander, fruit trees and shrubs. Please refer to our feature article this month on aphids for more information.
Add color to your landscape with the planting of summer season annual flowers. The best heat tolerant flowers include: zinnia, marigold, portulaca (moss rose), Madagascar periwinkle, celosia (cockscomb), red and blue salvia, dusty miller and cosmos.
Thin fruit of deciduous trees such as apple, peach, plum and apricot. Pick the small fruit off, so that the fruit are spaced 6 inches apart. Plant vegetable seeds of melons, squash, cucumber and sweet corn directly into the garden. Prepare the seed bed by mixing in lots of organic matter such as compost and manure.
Apply chelated iron to plants such as citrus, gardenia, pyracantha, nandina, and bottle brush. Iron deficiency is characterized by a yellowing of the leaf portions between the leaf veins on newer growth.
This is our First Garden Issue. In it you will find useful information and opportunities from local businesses and residents. I want to thank everyone who contributed.
Come and see their Demonstration GardenBecome a member of the Home Gardening Program! Registration is easy and free (donations accepted) and gives you access to: Free vegetable and flower seeds! (2 times/year)Starter plants (when available) Free compost (one time for starting a vegetable garden) Various other helpful garden materials at low cost (shade cloth, bird netting, etc.)Printed material on desert gardening, pest identification, composting, water-saving strategies, raising chickens, native plant harvesting and more! See our planting guide to find out the best time of year to plant your favorite veggies in Tucson!.We Have Garden Basics WorkshopsWe have Technical Assistance, Gardening Co-operativeThe cooperative is a way for you to get help with the work installing a new garden or expanding your existing garden. If you are a home gardener and would like to sell some of your produce, check out our Community Foods Consignment page.
Contact: Luis Herrera Home Garden Coordinator 622-0525 x264
http://extension.arizona.edu/gardening
You can visit the Pima County Cooperative Extension Demonstration Gardens on
4210 N. Campbell Ave. Tucson AZThere are also pamphlets available on a variety of subjects at at
Demonstration gardens or online. If you have a question you can call tier help line Call their Gardening Hotline
(602) 827-8201See Page 7 for more news from the U of A Extension Service
3003 S Country Club Rd, Tucson, AZ 85713
To Get Your Fence Post Delivered Electronically
e-mail [email protected] and we will add you to the distribution list
Calendar of Events Abbreviation Key: CC Community Center, MFC My Friends Closet, SBC Serenity Baptist Church, AVMS Altar Valley Middle School
FORR Friends of Robles Ranch
Events Happening Every Week
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
For Church Services go to
roblesjunction.org
Com Food Bank. 3 to 6 CC
Com Food Bank.10 to 3 CC
Caring Food Min. 12 PM SBC
Com Food Bank.10 to 3 CC
For Church Services go to
roblesjunction.org
Info Referral CC 10 am - 3 pm
MFC CC 1 to 5 PM
Info Referral CC 1 - 6pm
Info Referral CC 8:-10
MFC CC 9AM to 1PM
Joy Seniors 10:30 AM CC
Joy Seniors 10:30 Am CC
Joy Seniors 10:30 Am CC
Stay & Play CC 10 to 11:30 AM
Youth Group SBC 5:30 PM
AA Meeting 2 PM SBC
AA Meeting 7 PM SBC
VFW $1 Hot Dog Monday 4-7
VFW $1 Taco Wednesday 4-7
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 2
Dates on this calendar may change. Please check with the organization to verify.
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
March 1National Pig
Day
2 3
FORR Meeting 6;30 pm CC
4Hug a GI Day
5 6 4-H Robles Ranchers 7PM
SBC
Diamond Bell Garage Sale
VFW Cancer Dinner 5 PM
8International
(Working) Women's Day
9 10
4-H Sierrita Mtn 7 PM SBC
11 Bookmobile 12-1 CC
AVSD School Board Meetings
6PM AVMS
12 Incorporation Meeting 6:30 PM
at Range Pizza
Girl Scouts DayPlant a Flower
Day
13 14 Incorporation Meeting 1 PM at
Range Pizza
Trico Annual Meeting, 10 am Casino del Sol
15Ides of March
16 17 18National
Agriculture Day
19 20
April Newsletter Deadline 5 PM
21National Quilting
Day
22 23 24 26National Spinach
Day
27 28
29National Mom and
Pop Business Owners Day
30 31 April 1 April 2 April 3 4-H Robles
Ranchers 7PM SBC
Good Friday
April 4
Community Calendar
The Holidays on this months calendar that have links are from http://holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/march.htm
International Earth Day
St Patrick’s Day
AVSD Stem Night5 to 8 PM
8th Grade Fundraiser @Kinney & Ajo 5-7
Altar Valley School News
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 3
All Newsletters are online at www.roblesjunction.org
If you do not have a computer, there are computers available at the Community Center call 822-4408 for availability.
NEWS STAFF Editor: Trish Hastings-SargentLayout and Paste Up Artist:
Trish Hastings-Sargent Please e-mail articles to [email protected]
All articles must be written as a positive representation of something that is happening in our community.
Deadline for articles is the 20th of the Month by 5 PM
Send us your article, information or ad in the body of an e-mail or as a “Word” document. We can not accept PDF’s
Business Ads & Classifieds: John Sargent 204-3240 or email them to
[email protected] ads must be paid for in advance of publication.
Ad PricesBusiness Card $10 per month
or prepaid $25 for 3 months with no changes to copyQuarter Page $25 per month Half Page $50 per month
Full Page $100 per monthClassified ads are available $5 for the first 5 lines
approx. 45 words. Additional lines $1 each
Make checks out to Robles Junction Community Council
Mail all checks to Robles Junction Community Council, 11200 S Sierrita Mtn Rd, Box 317, Tucson, AZ 85736
Website & Electronic Information Manager: John Sargent 204-3240 [email protected]
If you have questions please call Trish Hastings-Sargent at Cell # 520-247-8222 or e-mail her
Printed Copies Are Available at the Following Locations
Due to the high cost of printing, the Fence Post is primarily an electronic Newsletter. At this time we print only 100 copies. We distribute the Fence Post on or before
the first of the month to the following locations:
• A Graceful Touch of Beauty Salon and Spa
Email [email protected] to be placed on our e-mail distribution list
• Serenity Baptist Church• Hairy Cactus Salon• Cindy Lou’s Restaurant
• The Giant Store • Kestrel Market• Ace Hardware
Put on your calendar.Diamond Bell Ranch
CommunityReally Big Multi-Family
Yard Sale Saturday, March 7th, 2015
8:00am to 4:00pmEasy Directions:
*Ajo Hwy 86 to Sierrita Mtn Rd to Diamond Bell Ranch Rd. *or Ajo Hwy to Sasabe Hwy #286 to Diamond Bell Ranch Rd.
*Turn onto Stagecoach Rd.*Pick up Map by Bulletin Board to Locate Participating Homes
Community News
VFW 10254 Ladies Auxiliary Cancer Aid and Research Dinner
March 7, 2015 Saturday 5-7pm Silent Auction by Momma V and Jr. Girls
Karaoke Starting at 7Dinner Music by local artist Julie Warren.
Meatloaf dinner $6.00 donation 10 yr. and under $3.00
For more information, call: 822-5047
DESERT HARVESTBy Donna Derosia
Owner of Kestrel Kafe & Market
Spring has sprung for us lucky ones in this part of the country. It seems a strange contrast with what is happening to the millions of people back East. As a
refugee from western upstate New York I can’t even remember it being quite as brutal as they are enduring now. I hope for the well being of everyone there and hope they soon get some sunshine and warmth.
The rattlesnakes are out weeks ahead of time here and all the trees grasses and flowers are popping new growth. We’ve had a wonderful double hit of extra warm weather and good winter rains.
The ground is warm enough to plant but there is still a chance of another good frigid blast that could kill off all the new growth. I guess it’s a gamble we must be able to take. If you use a raised bed method for planting it tends to keep the soil a little bit warmer and makes it easier to cover in the cold but also makes it easier to protect from the extreme summer heat. We also can’t forget how delicious these tender plants will taste to all the other desert critters. The raised bed method makes it easier to make critter proof covers and alleviates the problem of pests getting in underneath. I find small diameter PVC works well for making a cover that is fairly inexpensive and easy to cover and remove. You can make a cover that looks like an arch because the PVC is bendable. I have also used rebar for the same purpose and it works almost as well but is not as easy to modify as your needs change. My garden is covered in chicken wire but be aware many small birds and critters can still pass through. If you have access to a truck Tank’s Green Stuff on Ina Rd. will sell you a truck load of organic compost at dirt cheap prices to fill those garden beds. If you use decomposed manure the soil will probably contain some chemicals that get passed through the animal feed.
Seed Library & ExchangeI will be starting a seed library and exchange at the Kestrel Kafe.
If you have extra seed from last year’s plants that are labeled I will put them in my library. Anybody will be able to participate in the seed exchange with the understanding they produce some seed from their plants and donate back to the library. The idea of the seed library is to provide seeds to those who may just need a little nudge to get going or don't have the means of buying them. It will also create diversity in the produce growing population and species diversity out here.
I also want to do a seedling exchange. I will have a table on my patio with a message board where you can leave plants or let people know of plants you would like to give away or exchange.
You can also leave messages with produce to trade, sell or give away from your gardens excess. You can either leave your own contacts or use the Kestrel Kafe as your exchange point. You can also use this board and ask any gardening related questions.
Extra garden supplies and fencing can also be traded or sold here. It will be an easy way to communicate and sell, barter and trade our
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 4
garden supplies, seeds and bounty locally. Hopefully many friendships and bonds will be nurtured with its existence. I will have it on my patio by the time this newsletter is published. Please stop by and participate!
As you are clearing your yards of debris be sure to take care and not kill the bounty of good plants and grasses that naturally inhabit your yard. If they are not invasive varieties such as buffle grass you may want to consider relocating them instead of killing them. This also pertains to new seedling trees as well. If you put that little baby mesquite somewhere else it may soon provide much neededshade for your hammock in the summer during your siesta time!
REUSE – REPLANT--EDUCATE – PLANT—GROW-- GROW – SHARE!
Get Ready for Spring Planting with Seed and Seedling Exchange At Kestrel Market Come and Check It Out Seed Library Ready March 1st
Kestrel Kafe & Market10390 S Sierrita Mtn Rd - 822-1714
Your local Hometown Cafe & Market
Locally Made Artisan BreadsExpanding Organic Selections
Full Service Deli * Fresh ProduceMeats & Cheeses
Groceries, Beer & WinePatio Dining
We have food you want for a fresh, tastyhealthy meal
Join us from 7 am - 8 pm, 7 Days a Week“Like” us on facebook.com/KestrelKafe&Market
March MadnessSoft Shell Tacos 4 for $5
Check Out Our Expanded Beer Selection and Lower Prices
We Will Carry What YOU Need
Cherokee
St
Sierrita Mountain Nursery & Greenhouse
12220 S Cherokee Lane Hours Wed -Sat 8-6 Sun 9-3 Closed Monday & TuesdayPam & Don Carsella Follow the yellow signs. Call 520-268-1789 for more info.
We Have Citrus, Trees, Vegetables, Flowers,
Perennials, Fruits, Cactus, Shrubs, Soils We want to be you full service
Garden Center
Specials Sale Only March 1 - 10th
Huge Fruit Trees $15 OFF EACHSome of the biggest and best fruit trees for the money!
Peaches, Cherries, Apple, Nectarine, Figs, Pears and Plum!
While they last! Sale through March 10th
Marigolds Large 6 Packs $1.99 Per Pack! Lowest Price in Tucson!
Many Colors Limit 5 6 Packs
Huge Geraniums -12” PotsThese are stunning Geraniums! Compare anywhere at $15-$25
Now $13.99 8 colors Limit 4
Tomato Plants Buy 1 Get 1 Free! Limit 10
Less than HALF THE Price over Walmart, Lowes and Home Depot!!!
Many Varieties including Roma, Brandywine, Big Beef, Early Girl,
Sweet 100 Cherry and More
• From Ryan Air Field On Ajo Way Travel 6.3 Miles to Sierrita Mtn Rd
• On Sierrita Mtn. Rd Travel 4.5 Miles To W Scotland St
• Rt on W Scotland travel 1/2 Mile then make left on Cherokee St
• The Nursery is 1/2 mile on your Rt.
Ryan Air Field
Ajo Way
Sierrita Mtn. R
d
W Scotland
Sierrita Mountain NurseryPam & Don Carsella Owners
by Trish Hastings-Sargent
Don Carsella is from the North Chicago suburbs, yet he is no stranger to Tucson. His grandparents, like so many of us, moved here to escape the cold in 1970. Some of his fondest memories are working with his grandfather in the Tucson garden since he was 5 years old.
Don moved his family here in 1990. His Mother and sisters live here. He went to work laying flooring and his free time was spent in his own garden. He and his family moved to the Minnesota in 1994 where Don could hunt and fish. It was there he started his own Nursery business and was very successful.
In 2004 he met Pam and she began to work with him in the Nursery.
Winters are hard in Minnesota and the warm climate and family in Tucson, brought Pam and Don back in 2013. They bought a house with land in Three Points and in 2014 and started Sierrita Mountain Nursery.
Don has 50 years of growing experience. He is well versed in the challenges of growing in the desert. He has the knowledge of plant
requirements and the impact of elevation. You can come to him with your questions.
Unlike the Big Box Stores, Sierrita Mountain Nursery carries many plants that will do well here. In many cases their prices and quality are better than the in town Nurseries and Box stores plus you save gas.
This winter Pam & Don put in a green house which right now is filled with vegetable and flower seedlings. Sierrita Mountain Nursery carries a wide selection including flowers, vegetables, fruit trees, shade trees, shrubs, cactus and much more.I love having a Nursery in our neighborhood. I begin to smile just driving in. Follow the map. and when you get close there are yellow signs. They are easy to find. You will be glad you did.
Gardening
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 5
Notes from a Local Gardner
Spring Has Sprung, So It Seems. By Barbara Jimenez
When I was young(er), my Daddy said, “wait until after Easter to plant your garden.” I have always adhered to that advice. Many a friend have planted earlier and suffered unexpected freezes or some such nightmare. Well, with early warm weather this year, I am going to break my own rule. I may live to regret it, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
My dilemma comes in the fact that my winter garden is still producing so well which will limit my planting space. Not to worry, I will prepare the ground around the thriving crops and put down my seeds where appropriate. The remaining seeds can be planted into cups so they will be ready to go when my winter greens have given up the ghost. Since my planting beds are raised, it won’t be a problem to work my 2 inches of aged compost/manure into areas where there is space, plant and then repeat in areas as they come available. It’s a labor of love that keeps on giving!
The number one question people ask me is which plants should be planted when. I just send them to the AZ Extension Garden website for that info which also offers ALL kinds of planting advice and suggestions. Some of my summer favorites are tomatoes, cucumbers, summer squash, garlic, potatoes, bush beans… It’s
important to plant what you love to eat, and always rotate what you plant. My other advice is “do the hard work to prepare the beds once, and then never, never step on them again.” It takes a couple of years to really get your soil where you want it, but once you do, it will be easy sailing (I mean, easy planting) from there.
The Tucson Food Bank offers garden workshops for those that learn better by demonstration and hands on experience. We’ve attended every class they have to offer and have learned so much. Last tip: remember to compost your own scraps so that you don’t end up having to buy compost. Growing a garden costs little and can truly cut your grocery bill. It doesn’t take much space to yield a big return. Oh, I can almost taste those vine ripened tomatoes…
Happy Gardening!!
How to Use Alpaca Manure as Fertilizer?
Generally, you can find bags of alpaca manure available from online retailers or alpaca farmers. Those raising alpacas can even obtain it straight from the source. When using alpaca fertilizer, you can put it on top of the garden soil and then water it or wait and let the rain help soak it in. Alpaca manure breaks down pretty quick.
The Benefits Gained From Using Alpaca Fertilizer Tea?
Alpaca manure tea is another option for fertilizing garden plants. This is especially helpful for giving seedlings a jump start. Simply mix about a third cup of alpaca manure to every 2/3 cup of water and let it sit overnight. Then, use the manure tea to water your plants.
Open Range Alpacas Educational Center & Farm Store has alpaca manure available for a reasonable cost.
March 4th we will be open after renovating. The hours of operation are Wed thru Fri 10AM to 3PM.
Look forward to seeing you and starting our new year!!
DID YOU KNOW? Alpaca Manure Is a
Great Fertilizer?By Debbie Villeneuve & Brenda Clark
Using alpaca manure as fertilizer is beneficial and easy to do. Even with its lower organic content, alpaca manure is considered a rich soil conditioner. Alpaca fertilizer improves the soil quality and its
ability to retain water. It is also good for plants with a fair amount of nitrogen and potassium and about average levels of phosphorus.
Since alpaca manure is mostly found in pellet form and doesn’t have the same components as other livestock feeders, like cows and horses, it does NOT need to be aged or composted before use. You can spread it directly onto garden plants without burning them. Best of all, it does not contain any weed seeds so there’s no worry about plucking sprouts from the garden following application, as with some types of manure.
Coupon Good Only At Open Range Alpacas
Educational Center & Farm Store
10% Off One ItemRe-Open March 4th
Please call Brenda at 520-822-3047REDEEM COUPON AT TIME OF PURCHASE
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 6
Another Article from Sonoran Seasons
Pima County Master Gardener Newsletter Spring 2015 Helping you become a more successful gardener
Ask a Master GardenerPaul Ellis, Master Gardener Coordinator
Weeds Galore! How do I get rid of them? We have had a very warm winter so far, and weeds are starting in
earlier than normal. Those unappreciated plants are only guilty of growing where we don't want them. Most of our weeds are annuals and will not grow back if simply the leafy, above ground portion is killed. So how do you get rid of them?Physical Removal: Pull the buggers out by hand, dig them out with a weeder, level them with a scuffle hoe or let your pet goat eat them. Physically pulling them out is not fun and is best done when the weed is young, something many of us aren't. All these methods are effective to a point, but some weeds are perennial and if you leave any roots on perennials, they will be back. Use systemic herbicides on them.
Herbicides: There are basically two types – contact and systemic. A contact herbicide will kill any part of the plant it touches, but it won’t kill the root and most likely perennials will grow back. It may or may not be selective. Selective means it kills only certain weeds, such as broad leaf plants. Non-selective means it kills anything it touches. Systemic means the herbicide enters the plant through the leaves and translocates through the plant to the roots and kills the entire plant. This is the best choice for perennial weeds.
So, what to use, if applying herbicides? Most big box stores sell specific herbicides for use on broadleaf plants in lawn areas that will not
Gardening harm the lawn, such as Spectracide* with 2,4-D. Perennials need a systemic product such as glyphosate (one brand is Roundup*). It has a bad reputation among some gardeners, particularly organic gardeners. I certainly would not use it near edible plants. It is non-selective and kills anything it touches to the roots so you must be careful when using it. It degrades in the soil in about three days. Glyphosate can also be used to kill any large plant by cutting the stem/trunk about an inch above ground and immediately painting the cut with glyphosate concentrate.
Glyphosate will kill Bermuda grass but the grass needs to be actively growing, as do most weeds. To kill Bermuda, water it, fertilize it, wait a couple of weeks and apply glyphosate. You may have to repeat this process. Always follow directions and wear protective clothing and eye protection.
Never use any vegetation killer such as GroundClear*. They can be spread easily by irrigation or rain.
Pre-emergents stop seeds from germinating but will not kill growing plants. The granular product must be watered in by irrigation or rain. When using an herbicide, always use a pump sprayer dedicated to just herbicides. Don't use it for pesticides later on. It is helpful to add a tablespoon or so of a dish washing liquid to the mix as this helps the chemical stick to the leaves. I can't leave out our organic gardeners. Two organic based weed killers, Avenger* and Soil
Mender* are available. Both are contact herbicides and will have to be applied more often.
*The following brand names are registered trademarks of the respective companies: Spectracide--Spectrum Brands, Inc.; Roundup --Monsanto Co.; Groundclear -- The Scott Co.; Avenger -- Avenger Organics; Soil Mender -- Soil Mender Products. The Pima County Master Gardener Program does not promote or receive any support from specific brand names or companies. Those products and companies indicated are only examples to give the gardener greater knowledge when looking for solutions.
Have a gardening problem/question? Call our U of A Extension Service Hotline at 520-626-5161--
Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.
Or stop by our Plant Clinic at 4210 N Campbell Avenue in Tucson. Master Gardeners are available to answer your gardening questions over the phone, on a walk-in basis or online at https://ask.extension.org/ask. There is no charge for this service. There is also a wall of resources and handouts in the Plant Clinic that are available to the public. Call, stop by or email us today!
Helpful Gardening Links • E-answers: http://e-answers.adec.edu E-answers is a dynamic,
online resource that brings more than 250,000 pages of university information and education to you— when and where you need it. The practical, current, and unbiased information in this site represents the work of Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station professionals at more than 50 Land Grant universities throughout the United States.
• Pima County Master Gardener Website: http://extension.arizona.edu/pima-master-gardeners
• Pima County Master Gardener Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pimamastergardeners
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 7
• Arizona Master Gardener Manual: http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/mg/ A searchable edition of the textbook used to train Master Gardeners.
• Community Gardens of Tucson: http://www.communitygardensoftucson.org/ With 24 gardens in the Tucson area, this organization provides a place to garden, and the knowledge to help you.
• The Rose Society of Tucson: http://www.rosesocietyoftucson.org Plant Sale Saturday, April 11, 2015 8:00-11:00 a.m.
Pima County Cooperative Extension, 4210 N. Campbell Ave.
For more information call: 520-626-5161
The annual Pima County Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2015 from 8:00 am to 11:00 a.m. at the Pima County Cooperative Extension office, located at 4210 N. Campbell Avenue.
Spring is the perfect time to plant blackberries, fortnight lilies,
chuparosa, and red yucca. We have them! The sale will include a variety of shrubs, cacti, succulents, ground covers, vines, and flowering perennial plants grown by local Master Gardeners and offered at reasonable prices.
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 8
My Friends Closet and The Story of a Wild Hair!
Tahnee Jackson-Manager
Here at My Friends Closet we understand that you could donate your clothing and small household items to any organization and we understand that you can sell your items on websites, garage sales or swap meets.
For example, we have a customer who could have sold the beautiful formal dresses that she brought in for a nice amount of money but she chose to help our community. By bringing in those dresses she set off a series of crazy events which led to a Mini Fashion Show!
Let me show you how many community members jumped in to help. It all started about 3 weeks ago...
• We had 5 volunteer teens, Annie, Jesse, Mariah, Emma and Elijah (our official model escort), from Flowing Wells, Marana High School and a graduate from Flowing Wells.
• Lisa from Hairy Cactus Salon graciously offered to do their hair. (She has offered a discount for formal updo's with purchase of a formal dress from MFC *Call Lisa for more details),
Community News
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 9
• One of MFC event volunteers, Jodi Morgan, did the girls makeup.
• Volunteer and Friends of Robles Ranch board member, Toni Schenk, fitted the girls into the dresses.
• Sandy Pedersen, volunteer and Friends of Robles Ranch secretary did the driving, feeding, steaming and anything else that needed to be done.
• Walter Jackson, Friends of Robles Ranch board member, put together runway music.
• And John and Johnda Mahlberg, an incredible couple that volunteer in the community and the church, set up our runway and photo station.
• Lexi Rivas from Flowing Wells High School took the models pictures (see her facebook page at Lexi R Photography) and
• Serenity Baptist Church allowed us to do this fashion show during their Valentines Day dinner Youth fundraiser.
Not only did those dresses spark a giving revolution but the money we may make from the dresses and all that we sell will go back into the community.
So remember, when you choose to donate to MFC we don't take it lightly. In fact we take it with such joy and appreciation that we might get a wild hair and put on a fashion show!!!
Start Your Formal and Prom Shopping Here.These Beautiful Clothes are Available at My Friends Closet
Behind The Scenes Of The My Friends Closet Fashion Show
By Trish Hastings-Sargent
It is so great when members of our community volunteer their time and talent to help another organization achieve success. My Friends Closet has beautiful formal gowns for the young people in our community at great prices. To show them off MFC organized a fashion show during a Valentine Dinner at the Serenity Baptist Church.
I wanted to include some of the back stage photos of this event. For a young lady putting on a beautiful dress is only the first step, having hair and make up done by ladies who know what they are doing, complete their feeling very special.
Jodi Morgan, did the girls makeup. She is one of MFC event volunteers. Lisa Wagner owner and operator of The Hairy Cactus Salon did the girls hair. She has also offered a discount for formal updo's with purchase of a formal dress from MFC . *Call Lisa for more details.
Thank You Backstage Volunteers!
Community Good News
The HairyCACTUSSALON
&
Boutique
For appointment call Lisa 520-861-9230Located in the building to the left of Fred’s Arena
9650 South Avra Road
The Hairy Cactus is now open for Walk-Ins Tuesday thru Saturday 1 PM to 4 PMPlease call for an appointment for all other hours. HAIRCUTTING COLORING AND PERMING
MANICURES & PEDICURES
Get Ready For Sandal SeasonPedicure Special
2 for $30 or 4 for $50Can be shared with a friend
We also have unique handmade gifts by local artists
JewelrySpecial Hand Made SoapsArt Photos and Note Cards
Craft Items
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 10
Phil and Annie MorrisonMarried December 3, 2011
by Linda Jones This is a couple that works very well together. Rarely do I see one without the other.They both belong to VFW Post 10254. Phil is the Men's Auxiliary President and Annie is past President of our Ladies Auxiliary. Also they are both past members of the Sons of AMVETS where they were involved with the food distribution.
Annie is past Administrative Assistant for our fire department and was part of a support group that helped raise money for their various causes.They both have had CERTS training, became part of the community Adopt a Family program at Christmas, and helped with the community newsletter.
Annie takes care of her mother, Jane Pierce, who taught her from a child to jump in and help where needed. "VOLUNTEER" was the word most used in their family. They gathered wood for Momma V and many people in the community who needed it for heat. Momma V had words to say about this couple: "Both Annie and Phil have shown unwavering support for the VFW Junior Girls. Annie donating supplies and Phil teaching them the proper way to fold the flag, explaining the Veteran Memorialand Dog Tag Tree located at our post". Love and appreciate them for their efforts to serve the veterans and community. Thank you!
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 11
Community NewsInformation & Referral
and Food Bank Newsby Dora Dicochea
FOOD BANK: For those of you that can’t remember food bank hours, here they are; Tuesday 3:00 – 6:00PM, Wednesday 10:00AM – 3:00PM, and Friday 10:00AM – 3:00PM, couple of months ago the Robles Elementary school donated a box of food to this local food bank, I am acknowledging now, Thank you!! And please keep up the good work. Trellis your donation helped three families in this community, many thanks to the Holy Way Presbyterian Church that keeps this small food bank location in their list of priorities.
Information and Referral: You don’t need to go to town anymore to obtain your General Educational Development (GED) certificate, just come to the Robles Ranch Community Center and you can do it here, your own pace and no rush. Are you somebody that needs basic support, no problem such support you'll find it here too at the Robles Ranch Community Center, come and talk to Dora, classes start at the beginning of March!
Resurrection Week Activities – Serenity Baptist Church
Once again this year, Serenity Baptist Church will celebrate the week before Resurrection Sunday – Easter Sunday – with a week of prayer that will go on 24 hours each day beginning after worship on Sunday March 29, through Sunday morning April 5. Anyone interested in coming in to the church house during that week to pray is welcome – as always.
That week of prayer will close with the Sunrise Service on April 5 at 7:00 am. The service will be followed by breakfast served by the church family to those attending the Sunrise Service. The service itself will be held in the Prayer Garden on the south side of the main church building.
Zach Vaughan will be bringing the message with music being led by the worship team of the church. Anyone who would like to join the church family for this day of worship celebrating the resurrection of Jesus is invited to attend. There is no charge for the breakfast, and all are welcome.
For more information, contact the church office at 822-2026 or come by the church house at 15501 W. Ajo Hwy right across the road from the Family Dollar Store and The Three Points Day Care Center.
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Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 12
IS IT TIME TO INCORPORATE OUR COMMUNITY? Part 3
By Phyl LenziniThe idea for Incorporation started with a rumor. A local citizen
decided to start a light industrial company in the area and Pima County denied them permits for the improvements necessary on the land they purchased for the project. The reasons were many and did not make much sense. This did not surprise any of us that have had dealings with the county over the years. The flood zoning adopted for our area by the county that makes most of our properties worthless, the trash transfer station closure that rises every two years and the buying of the local wells by the City of Tucson have raised questions and more than once provoked anger many times over the lack of common sense. Have you ever been to a public meeting planned by our county leaders on any subject? Some of us have. A good suggestion if you plan to attend one is to not expect either to be listened to or your opinions to be respected. The plain truth is it is obvious most of our county supervisors have held their offices too long. Most citizens adopt the attitude that you cannot fight city hall and stopped attending any meeting on any issue. This apathy, though understandable, has made matters worse. We are now not only at the mercy of a board of supervisors that obviously do not care about our needs or our own visions for our area’s future, we are also at the mercy of the City of Tucson’s elected officials. We all chose to live in this area for many reasons, not the least of which was choosing not to be included in the politics of Tucson.
For some of us, rumors lead to research to either establish the validity of the rumor or dismiss it. The research we did on this issue lead to more questions than answers. Our research resulted in many facts concerning our area specifically that were a surprise to us all. The water issue was huge when the fact came to light that we sit on the largest aquifer in the state. As Tucson quietly bought up wells already in existence, we learned that their plans are much broader in the future based on water needs for Tucson. They also purchased large tracts of land to improve their prospects of future water needs. The rates on the wells they purchased increased on the local families using them with no recourse available. Property taxes increasing 16% for our area only added to the difficulty of many folks in our area. The scarcity of jobs coupled with Pima County denying any new business setting up shop compounds the problem. This is only one issue. There are many more such as the proposed freeway running down Sandario between Taylor Lane and Sierrita Mountain, the proposed expansion of Ryan’s Field, and the state of our roads that are supposed to be county maintained and the lack of interest on the part of the county to maintain more without significant sacrifice by the property owner’s that live on them. Our research makes it even
more understandable why our fellow citizens have become increasingly apathetic.
After several more discussions, it was decided that we would research options for improving the situation rather than just being depressed over the facts we have found. The only answer that made sense was the process of incorporation. This process would result in the only measure of control available to our area residents. One resident’s comment was if you can’t fight city hall, then maybe we should make our own. We researched the process and collectively started holding public meetings to discuss the idea with our fellow residents to see if there was any support for such a notion. We are pleased to report that after 7 meetings publically announced and fairly well attended, that the results were positive. We are moving forward with a bid for incorporation and need the help of our fellow citizens to help with this endeavor. The course is clear and the road map to incorporation is fairly simple, but it will take a few creative and dedicated folks to move a community to improving itself for our kids. We all have busy lives.
Can you imagine our area with local companies being hired to maintain our roads, weekly garbage service to prevent garbage being dumped in the desert or local folks voting on issues before they are passed into law? We can imagine these things and many more. What can you imagine?
On Thursday March 12 at 6:30pm and again on Saturday March 14, 2015 at 1pm we will be meeting again at Open Range Pizza off Sierrita Mountain Rd to discuss committees and divide volunteers into those groups.
Every volunteer can work in whatever committee they feel best suited. Once the process has begun we will have a timeline that must be followed and steps that must be taken in order to accomplish this. We are optimistic based on the support we have found thus far and look forward to working with all of you to improve our community.
Thank you. Visit us at www.incorporateroblesjunction.com or
Email: [email protected]
Community News
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News From Our Sheriff ’s Department
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 13
IRS Scam By Tracy A. Suitt
I recently received a call from a concerned friend because his wife received a call from the Internal Revenue Service. The person on the phone said they owed an undisclosed amount of money and a warrant would be issued for their arrest if it was not paid immediately. My friend called the person back and something didn’t seem right so he called me. I informed him it’s tax time and the scammers are up to their old tricks.
This is how the scam usually works; the victim receives a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, informing them they are behind on their taxes. The suspects tell the potential victims that
they must pay now or a warrant will be issued for their arrest. The victims are told to go to Wal-Mart and purchase a Green Dot card for the amount owed. Once the card is purchased, the victims contact the suspect and provide the number on the back of the card. Here are a few tips to prevent you from becoming a victim:•The IRS will not call and advise you of back taxes
owed. You will receive a letter in the mail.• The IRS will not threaten you over the phone.• Do not give your personal information to someone who calls you.• Call the IRS to see if you actually owe back taxes. • Call 9-1-1 and make a report if you are a victim of the scam.
Your Local Fire Department
by Steve Knode Many have asked me, what's going on at the fire station on Sasabe Rd., Hwy. 286? Folks, this is a new Fire Station provided to Three Points through a generous bond election. The station should be completed by October 2015. Last year your Fire Department was involved in several fund raising events that were most beneficial to Three Points. These funds assisted the Altar Valley School District with $500 and $250 for Path Way of Excellence. They provided a wonderful Halloween Haunted House
and participated in Tucson Chili Cook-Off. From these efforts 20 families were adopted for Christmas with a total of 286 children being supported with love and the joy of presents from Santa. I must add a gracious thank you to Family Dollar for their generous gifts in supporting Santa, which I failed to acknowledge in my last article. BURN PERMITS, please everyone, come by the
fire station and file for a burn permit, or call the station 822-1086. Then the fire personnel will come by and inspect the area before you burn. Burning without a permit could cost you a $20,000 fine! Thank you for your safety!
VolunteeringBy Steve Knode
Volunteering is such fun in my opinion, giving to my community helps in so many ways. Pablo Picasso stated, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” I love giving to the elementary school and to hear the
children say hello Mr. Steve it is so heart warming! I know this community needs volunteers, don't question yourself, just go and try!
There are no restrictions to volunteer the Robles Community Support organization and you will find new friends and a great way to smile!
The elementary school would love committed adults to assist teachers and then there are many other needs for the school too! In the photo I am reading to the students, if you would like to read to the students, or assist, please contact the elementary school principle, Mrs. Young.
I know the Robles Community Support also needs assistance! Contact Karen, 822-3154 or on line at www.roblescommunitysupport.org.
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of
others." Mahatma Gandhi
Robles Community Support, Inc.www.roblescommunitysupport.org
Info: 9 am – 4 pm (520) 822 3154
2015/2016 THREE POINTS PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE:Preparation has started for the publication of the 2015-2016 Three Points Program & Activity guide. This booklet is mailed out late August to over 2500 households and business' in the Three Points and surrounding rural area. An excellent opportunity to reach everyone in the area with your information, at one time.
The deadline for information is May 31, 2015. Any club, group, organization, non profit, human service or program that is active in this area and would like information to be included in the guide
please submit your write up to [email protected] before the deadline. There is no charge for non profits, community organizations, youth groups, human services organizations or support groups. Your write up should include the name, current contact information, hours of operation, location if desired and a general description. If you have special events or programs, that benefit those living in this area, being held between Sept 2015 and Aug 2016, be sure to include dates and specific information.
This is not a business directory, but limited advertising space is available for those who would like to place an ad for their fee based business or service. Please call Caron at RCS to find out more information regarding advertising space and cost. The 2015/2016 guide is a project of Robles Community Support, Inc and is funded wholly by our non profit, donations from the public and advertising revenue. If you would like to contribute please visit the donations page on our website.
SHUTTLE NEWS & SCHEDULE: call (520) 822-3154 between 8 am and 4 pm M-F only.
Thank you! Area residents have been very supportive and making good use of the shuttle service, our ridership is growing every day. We have been able to expand our service to include limited runs to town. All RCS programs, including the shuttle, are operated by volunteers and funded through our non profit and
donations received from the public, this is not a government funded service. Only your support keeps us on the road!
Monday , Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – Early Morning to Laos Station - Must call before 4 pm, the day before to arrange pickup, between 7:45 – 8:30 am depending on passenger pick up route for that day. A RETURN RIDE is available from the Laos station at 5 pm, let us know either by phone (before 4 pm) or with the driver at drop off that you need the return ride. If there are no return rides booked, we do not go in.
Monday, Tuesday and Friday - Noon LOCAL run only 10:30 am – 12:30 pm, no city destinations. We will pick up and drop off in the Three Points area. Call before 10 am for same day. This includes Fuller area, Taylor area, Diamond Bell area, as long as the roads are in fair condition we will try to get as close as possible. We drop off and pick up based on the schedule, there is no “to town” during the noon runs. We can not wait while you do shopping and errands, as we have other passengers to attend to. Please keep this in mind when calling in to make arrangements. Example – we pick you up at 11 am and take you to the cafe. Make arrangements with the driver to return and pick you up before 12:30 pm to take you back home. The driver will confirm the return ride and continue to attend to other riders while you enjoy your meal.
Thursday – extended regular local run only, to accommodate Food Service 10:30 am – service finished
Wednesday ONLY – Shopping Day – limit to 6 reserved seats, pickup between 9 – 9:30 am to go down Valencia, dropping at Walmart, Safeway etc. Laos hub if requested. Return pickups starts at 12:30 pm from Walmart. For those dropped at Laos station, arrange a 5 pm pickup if needed. Book early, our first 2 runs were full.
Community News
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 14
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A recent national study shows there’s good news and challenges when it comes to families reading daily with infants, toddlers and preschoolers.
The good news is parents recognize that reading with young children is important in developing language and literacy skills. The challenge is families aren’t starting early enough.
Scholastic recently released the Kids and Family Reading Report, its annual survey of children’s reading. The report shows that while 73 percent of parents say they started reading aloud to their child before age 1, more than 50 percent say they didn’t start until their baby was 6 months old.
First Things First reminds Arizona families that 90 percent of a child’s critical brain development happens by age 5 and daily interactions with caregivers have a huge impact on building vocabulary and language. When infants hear and use language, their brains develop the connections needed to learn how to read.
Families can help foster early language and literacy skills in various ways. Read with young children from the day they are born. Even
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 15
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very young babies respond to the warmth of a lap and the soothing sound of a book being read aloud. And, no matter your child's age, help their vocabulary grow through your daily interactions: describe what you're doing; read signs and labels aloud; sing songs; and, make up rhymes.
There are several resources to help families instill a love of reading in their children. First Things First’s YouTube page hosts videos that demonstrate how to read with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. And, Read On Arizona, an FTF partner that engages communities in supporting early literacy for kids birth to 8 years old, has an early literacy guide and book suggestions for every developmental stage on their website, readonarizona.org.
Maybe it is fitting that First Things First is sharing this information close to beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss’ birthday (March 2). The good doctor said it best, “You're never too old, too wacky, or too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.” And to add a different twist, a child is never too young, either.
###About First Things First – First Things First is a voter-
created, statewide organization that funds early education and health programs to help kids be successful once they enter kindergarten. Decisions about how those funds are spent are made by local councils staffed by community volunteers. To learn more, visit azftf.gov.
Community NewsBabies and toddlers
need more reading time
JUNCTION CONNECTION Are you over 55?
Do you need transportation to town?
Junction Connection may be the answer for you. It is a free service offered to senior residents of Robles Junction/Three Points area. We service the area bordered on the north by Mile Wide Rd, south to Britten Ranch Rd. (Los Caballos RV Park), east to Kinney Rd., West to Kitt Peak Rd.
It was formed 8 years ago to help seniors keep their doctors appointments, do their grocery shopping, do their banking, pickup prescriptions, or various other trips that need to be done.
It is part of Neighbors Care Alliance which is part of PCOA, (Pima Council on Aging). Our drivers are volunteers that provide a ride for our clients or if needed, run errands for them.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, we are in need of more drivers for our community. You must be 18 or over to drive for us. You must have a safe,reliable, insured vehicle. You must have a current license and a clean record. This is an opportunity to serve our neighbors, meet new people, and help our seniors maintain a lifestyle of staying in their own home as long as possible.
You can stop by our office located in the Robles Ranch Community Center on the west end of the building: Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday: 1:30-2:30 PM
You can become a client or volunteer by calling: Patzi Hughes 520-429-7843Connie German 520-240-2579Phyllis Laczny 520-405-2671
Altar Valley School District News
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 16
Altar Valley Middle SchoolDear Altar Valley Middle School Families,
Always being prepared is imperative not only when looking at the weather or if we need to fill up our gas tanks, but also as students grasp new concepts and explain their thinking in mathematics.
The current mathematics curriculum requires children to master skills across mathematical understandings as well. Math requires that our students not only understand the basic facts and concepts of mathematics, but are literate in their ability to express this understanding as well. They are expected not only to use mathematical notation-numbers to explain thinking, but also use oral and written words to convey understanding of concepts and processes. So many times, children find unique ways to solve a problem that is mathematically sound. When this occurs it is a powerful force in their learning careers and should be celebrated.
I wanted to take some time and share with you some questions that have recently come up, along with some strategies to use with your children as they tackle math problems at home.
Is getting the correct answer still the most important part of the problem solving process?
Getting the correct answer is important, but being able to explain how the solution was derived and makes sense is equally important.
Dear Robles Families,
March is here and that means that we are getting ready for our new state standardized test, AZ Merit. Your child will be reviewing all of the skills taught this year. Check with your child's teacher to see what you can do to help review at home. The students have been working hard all year and I know they will do well.
Fourth graders are getting ready for their trip to Mt. Lemmon. Watch for more information about parent meetings and volunteering to be sent home. We would love your help with fundraisers, needed items for the trip and helping during the trip. The fourth graders are challenged to earn their way to Mt. Lemmon through completing their classwork, having positive behavior in class
Can parents read math homework problems to their child, if the child is having difficulty reading them?
Although the goal is for students to develop independence in solving math problems, some students may need assistance reading the problems. A parent may read the problems to their child if he/she is having difficulty, just be sure to communicate this with your child’s teacher.
What should a parent do if the child tries to solve a problem in a different way than the parent learned it or in a way that doesn’t seem efficient?
If a child’s reasoning is logical, that is an important step in solving the problem. Let the child explain his/her thinking orally, and the parent should do the same. Determining different ways to solve a problem is strongly encouraged in your child’s classrooms.
What are some ways I can help my child with their homework?• Have your child explain to you their thinking when solving a
problem• Ask your child frequently about math problems solved at school• If your child is stuck on a problem ask questions that will help
him/her to figure it out in their own way• Ask your child to re-state math problems and questions in their
own wordsI hope these suggestions will be helpful as you work with your
child at home and thank you for all of your support.
Sincerely, Josh Peebles Principal Altar Valley Middle School
and turning in homework. Check with the teachers for more detailed information.
Thanks for helping your child with reading and math facts. Their scores are continuing to rise as we check their progress and award Paws each month. Each student that reaches the end of the year benchmarks, will get their name entered into a drawing to win an E-Reader. We will be giving away two E-Readers in May. Ask your child how close they are to reaching the end of the year goal.
The Preschool students have been learning their letters and sounds and are beginning to read! They have been taking home books to read with their families. Parents, ask your child to show you what they have learned and let them read their books to you. The students are doing an awesome job!
Thanks for your continued support and the staff and I are working to help all students reach their educational potential.
Chandra Young, Principal Robles Elementary
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Altar Valley School District News
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 17
STEM ClubBy Mary C. Miller, ESEA Coordinator/Staff Development Specialist
Robles Elementary fourth grade students are enjoying STEM Club with Ms. Wallace, Ms. Nicholas, and Elizabeth Nyugen from the University of Arizona as part of a special STEM grant received through the Arizona Science Center and the 21st Century after school program. Every Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons the classroom is converted into a science lab where students can be seen using balloons to create static electricity, exploring how batteries work, conducting experiments involving motion, or analyzing the characteristics of different types of rocks.
This program is an exciting way for our students to experience learning with a hands-on, collaborative approach while answering questions and solving problems that lead to more rigorous thinking. Through this program and others like it in our district students are having fun and are being exposed to 21st Century skills that will prepare them for a successful future.
Sixth Grade is Working Hard!
AZ Merit TestBy Lorie Wallace
The sixth grade is preparing for the AZ Merit test to be administered in the spring. We have taken three Galileo tests throughout the year and we are now analyzing the data to ensure we are well prepared.
In Language Arts we are working hard on improving our typing skills since we are taking the tests on a computer. This test is a new test to Arizona and we are excited to dive in and show everyone what we know!
Please remember to encourage your child/children to get a good night’s rest and eat a good breakfast each morning. Since we begin with a new slate each day, having a well-balanced, healthy breakfast is the first opportunity to provide a body with important nutrients. Please check with your child for information on upcoming preparations and testing news.
Mammograms Here In Three Points/Robles Junction
As a convenience to our employees and the community, Altar Valley will be offering On-site Mammograms on Friday March 20!
This is being offered to anyone with insurance, so please let your friends and neighbors know too!
Call 888-233.6121 to schedule your appointment today.
Sixth Grade Life Science Lab Comes Aliveby Julie Venglarcik
Spring semester of sixth grade science is built on a backdrop of learning about life.
“In science class we learn about about microscopes and the water cycle and types of clouds and organisms,” explains sixth grader Asher Bankhead, new to the Altar Valley School district this year. “My favorite part of science class is using the microscopes because everything is at a different perspective.”
Sixth grader Emma Fennimore echoes the same sentiment, “I like using the microscopes because you see things that you really wouldn’t think you would until you do.”
The AVSD uses FOSS kits in each grade level as a springboard for teaching science in a hands-on fashion. Sixth graders studied Weather and Water in the fall and are exploring the Diversity of Life kit now. Science teachers who participate in the STEM pilot program also meet regularly to expand our existing FOSS kit resources into a larger STEM initiative, ultimately to encourage students to connect with the concepts and habits of those who practice Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in the workplace.
“Right now we’re talking about the differences between living and non-living things, especially with the microscopes,” mentions Ethan Wilton, another sixth grader who is enjoying science lab learning in preparation for a marine life field trip to San Diego in April.
Sixth graders who register and raise their own funds have the opportunity for an over-the-road and overnight field trip to the Scripps Institute of Oceanography as well as a floating lab and a visit to Sea World in San Diego, CA. For more information, check with Mrs. Wallace or Mrs. Venglarcik.
Newsletter available at www.roblesjunction.org Community News Page 18