Author Archive for Lancaster

Baseball/Softball: Aztecs sign up for a new future

By LYNDAJOE ECHERIVEL

Pima Community College baseball and softball teams had there annual Group Signing event Jan 15.

The baseball team has commitments from 14 student-athletes from Southern Arizona.

PCC picked up seven pitchers Sean Patrick Carroll (Canyon Del Oro High School), Robert Andrew Petty (Rincon/University High School), Troy Kyle Petty (Ironwood Ridge High School), Zachary David Smutzer (Rincon/University High School), Jeremy Mark Timpf (Sabino High School) including two southpaws Benjamin William Skuro (Sabino High School) and Treyton John Stender (Ironwood Ridge High School).

The Aztecs infield gained Devon Miguel Carrillo (Sahuaro High School), Benny Diego Garcia (Sunnyside High School), Tyler James Kimbrogh (Salpointe Catholic High School) and Carlo Alfredo Tacchia (Sunnyside High School).

They also acquired catchers Forest Champan (Cienega High School), Daniel Anthony Peters (Sabino High School) and outfielder Adam Michael Borboa (Sahuaro High School).

The softball team had commitments from seven student-athletes, all from Southern Arizona.

The Aztecs signed catchers Alyssa Guevarra, Cienega High School, and Danielle Stensby, Buena High School.

Pima picked up infielders Hannah Alcocer, Cienega High School, Victoria Mariscal, Douglas High School, and Stacey Ramrez, Benson High School. They also gained outfielder Stephanie Ramirez from Benson High School.

The Pima baseball team practices this week. The Aztecs acquired 14 student-athletes. Aztec Press photo by Mylo Erickson.

Fall 2011 Aztec Press staff

The Fall 2011 Aztec Press staff gathers for a group photo. After a winter break, publication of the student newspaper will resume Jan. 26.

Holthaus earns 100th Aztec women’s basketball win

By JOEL GANTT

The Pima Community College women’s basketball team earned head coach Todd Holthaus career win number 100 when the Aztecs secured a 21-point victory over Phoenix College.

The Aztecs have made three consecutive trips to the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II national tournament under Holthaus, including an appearance in the championship game last season.

“We can’t sneak up on teams any more,” Holthaus said. “We have a bulls-eye on our back now.”

Holthaus is 100-43 in his career as coach of the Pima Aztecs. He attributes Pima’s recent success to his assistants and recruiting athletes from all over Arizona to play for him.

“I can’t take all the credit,” Holthaus said. “I have been fortunate enough to be surrounded with great coaches.”

Point guard and team captain Naderra Carey has played under Holthaus for two and a half seasons after red-shirting in her first season with Pima.

“He gets the most out of us players,” Carey said. “He is the best coach that I have ever had.”

The Aztecs were in action on Saturday, Dec. 3, when they took a three-game winning streak on the road to face Central Arizona College.

Freshman point guard Ashlei Scott led the offense for the Aztecs with 11 points and three assists. Freshman center A’jha Edwards led the team with 11 rebounds to go along with her four points.

Sophomore guard Briaunna Guthrie, sophomore forward Tyahnna Higgs and freshman guard Ebonee Rhymes each scored eight points on the night as Pima lost its first conference game of the season 73-60.

Win number 100 came for Holthaus on Wednesday, Nov. 30, when PCC hosted the Phoenix College Bears.

Pima was led in scoring by freshman forward Desiree’ Phillips, who took advantage of turnovers and solid baseline shooting to score 18 points. Edwards put in her third double-double of the year with 10 points and 12 rebounds in the 88-67 win.

PCC is 4-4 this season, with a 3-1 conference record. The next test will come Saturday, Dec. 10, when Pima hosts No. 8-ranked Mesa Community College at 2 p.m. in the West Campus gym.

Point guard Ashlei Scott elevates and creates contact with a defender. Aztec Press photo by Larry Gaurano.

On Deck

Dec. 10: vs. Mesa CC, 2 p.m.

Dec. 14: vs. LSU Eunice, 6:30 p.m.

Bruce Fleck Classic Tournament hosted by Pima:

Dec. 28: vs. Malcom X College, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29: vs. Snow College, 6 p.m.

Dec. 30: vs. Dawson CC, 4 p.m.

Jan. 4: @ Cochise College, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 7: @ South Mountain CC, 2 p.m.

Jan. 9: vs. South Plains College, 4 p.m.

Jan. 11: vs. Eastern Arizona College, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 14: vs. Glendale CC, 2 p.m.

Jan. 18: @ Arizona Western College, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 21: @ Chandler-Gilbert CC, 2 p.m.

Jan. 25: vs. Scottsdale CC, 5:30 p.m.

All home games are in the West Campus gymnasium.

‘DANCE FUSION’ explodes Dec. 9-10

By LYNDAJOE ECHERIVEL

Pima Community College student dancers will present a dance concert, DANCE FUSION, on Dec. 9-10.

The  innovative and unexpected blend of choreography and music will take place at PCC Center for the Arts Proscenium Theatre on West Campus at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Under the direction of Aurora Goncalves-Shaner, Pima students, faculty and guest artists from the University of Arizona will perform various dance styles fused together in a variety of movements from classical to contemporary to cultural.

The performance will include a vibrant blend of physicality and musicality with contrasting music. The diverse selections from the program include the fusion of ballet, jazz, break-dancing, hip-hop and folkorico to music by a string quartet.

Tickets are $10, with discounts available. Tickets are available at the Center for the Arts box office, located on West Campus at 2202 W. Anklam Road. Box-office hours are Tuesday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. and one hour before performances. For more information call 206-6986, email centerforthearts@pima.edu or visit online at pima.edu/cfa.

Photograph by Ed Flores

Backstage at a drag show

BY WHITNEY BILLINGS

Ryan Klenke performs as Regine Ray. Aztec Press photo by Whitney Billings.

Stage lights shine brightly, reflecting the pink sequence of Regine Ray’s meticulously put-together wardrobe.

Two words can be used to describe her… glamorous diva!

You would never know that come daytime this diva is a simple guy, born in Nashville, Tenn., and raised on a farm in Illinois.

Ryan Klenke is a simple down-to-earth student at Pima Community College. After changing his major three times, he decided on sociology.

His two identities are completely separate — very different individuals in one body.

“Regine is glamorous with such a sweet personality,” he says. “Ryan is a chill and laid back all-American guy. He can shoot a gun and all that jazz.”

Klenke moved to Tucson around the age of 14, which was also the same age he came out as gay to his family and friends. His family did not take the news well, which has caused distance.

“It was very difficult,” he said.

After surviving the emotional heartache of coming out to family and friends, a few years later Klenke faced the obstacle of two broken legs, the result of a serious car accident.

“This was by far the biggest obstacle in my life emotionally, physically and financially,” Klenke said.

When he was 19, Klenke found a new sense of belonging performing in a charity drag show.

“I never knew I would keep doing it professionally,” he said. “It just kind of happened.”

While Klenke enjoys the spotlight dressed as a woman, he’s not interested in a sex change.

“The biggest misconception regarding drag is that people think that because the male performers dress like women or vice-versa, we have the desire to be a woman, or in some cases a man,” he said.

Regine Ray started the “New Babies Drag Show” in June to provide a stage for men and women just starting out in drag.

It gives them a chance to test themselves against fierce competition and break into the spotlight. Performers are constantly working, improving their shows and competing for titles and new names.

Miss Ray is admired by many and considered to be the “drag mom” of quite a few performers. She has not only provided them with opportunity but also offered a support system within their family of performers.

Miss Regine Ray, left, helps Prosche du Roche add finishing touches. Aztec Press photo by Whitney Billings.

FYI

What: “The New Babies Drag Show”

Where: Howl at the Moon, 915 W. Prince Road

When: Thursdays at 7pm

Tickets: Free admission

Details: 293-7339

Porsche Du Roche applies makeup before a show. Aztec Press photo by Whitney Billings.

Veterans Center opens at Downtown Campus

PCC officials cut the ribbon for the new Veterans Center at Downtown Campus. Aztec Press photo by Kyle Wasson.

By KYLE WASSON

Partnering with student-veterans, Pima Community College has delivered a Veterans Center to Downtown Campus.

Grand opening ceremonies were held Nov. 10. All veterans who are part of PCC faculty, staff or the student body were invited to attend.

A dedication in the Amethyst Room included an opening ceremony with the Davis Monthan Air Force Base Honor Guard, followed by an official welcome and remarks.

A ribbon cutting and reception took place at 2:45 p.m. in the Veterans Center.

Chancellor Roy Flores makes his first public appearance since undergoing heart surgery. Aztec Press photo by Kyle Wasson.

The website www.gijobs.com deemed PCC one of the country’s “military friendly schools,” acknowledging the nearly 1,400 veterans enrolled each semester.

The Veterans Center, housed in room LB-170, will be open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Among the many amenities are two new computers, a flat-screen TV, desks and places to sit in a quiet room. A refrigerator will soon be installed, accompanying the coffee pot already brewing fresh grounds.

Trained volunteers and work-study students will provide assistance in areas ranging from class registration to job applications.

Volunteer and treasurer of Pima’s Student Veterans Organization, John O’Grady, urged all student-veterans to use the facility.

“We’re not just seeking veterans that need help,” O’Grady said. “We encourage any and all veterans to come relax and feel comfortable using this space.”

Visitors socialize at the grand opening of the Veterans Center at Downtown Campus. Aztec Press photo by Kyle Wasson.

Along with a new center comes a change of command at the Student Veterans Organization. Ex-Marine Alfaro Hermosillo has taken command while ex-Navy electrical technician Jason Priddy helms the vice commander position.

Aztec Press photo by Kyle Wasson.

West Campus has also recently dedicated space to student-veterans. Room A-224 on the second floor of the Santa Rita building is open to veterans Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5.p.m.

Although there are no computers or TV, a quiet space has been designated for homework and relaxing.

For more information on the Downtown Campus Veterans Center or Pima’s Student Veterans Organization, call 206-7263.

An Honor Guard from Davis Monthan Air Force Base lead the grand opening ceremonies Nov. 10 at Downtown Campus. Aztec Press photo by Kyle Wasson.

Recovery an ordeal for injured veteran

By KYLE WASSON

Student-veteran Koby Upchurch, 39, has fought back from severe injuries suffered in Iraq and defied odds set by his caregivers.

In 1999, during his third Army deployment, Upchurch was injured in the line of duty. Head trauma left him in a “walking coma” and he spent 18 months shuttling between inpatient and outpatient treatment.

“There were times when I would hug the couch, or talk to my food or even the walls,” Upchurch said. “I could no longer decipher the meaning of anything.”

After the Army medically retired Upchurch in 2001, he began rehabilitation through the Veterans Association and special treatment centers.

“I had to start all over,” he said. “Everything I knew was gone. There was only one way to change and that was re-learn it all.”

Upchurch openly discussed personal struggle and family turmoil, but couldn’t share specifics about the accident.

“You know, it’s just too hard,” he said. “Bad things happen to us and sometimes it can be overwhelming. I just can’t find the strength.”

The beginning

Upchurch was born in the small Arizona town of San Manuel. His father, like many, worked in the local mine. A series of layoffs in 1972 left his father without work, forcing his family of six to move to Tucson.

Shortly after, his parents divorced and his father moved to Lolo, Mont.

He split time between his mother and father, calling both Tucson and Lolo home. When he graduated from Rincon High School in 1990 at age 17, Upchurch sought change through military enlistment.

“My mother signed the papers allowing me to go,” he said.

Upchurch trekked to boot camp in Fort Jackson, SC. Six months of combat communications training accompanied the outbreak of the first Gulf War, packing Upchurch into the first of three deployments.

While enlisted Upchurch found love in a woman eight years older with two kids. The couple married and had two more kids. Neither had any college experience; Upchurch had only known the military.

After his first enlistment, Upchurch joined the Army Reserves and searched for a new civilian life with his family.

“I needed to provide for my family and contribute in some way,” he said. “I wanted to show my kids how to take care of their responsibilities.”

Upchurch held a variety of jobs with employers ranging from the Marana Fire Department to the Arizona Department of Corrections. He was a sheriff in Montana and a policeman in Kearney, Ariz.

The re-enlistment

Jobs were inconsistent, however, and financial survival became a struggle. In 1997, Upchurch traded the freedom of civilian life for a return to the Army.

“It was the only thing I could do for us,” he said.

Upchurch re-enlisted as a sergeant, and served with military police attached to “95 Bravo.” His new duties were entirely different from his previous job in communications.

His injury occurred during that deployment, and Upchurch began his long road to recovery.

When VA doctors conducted evaluations of Upchurch’s mental capacity, they deemed his chances of earning an associate degree impossible due to his injuries.

In 2002, Upchurch’s 11-year marriage ended. The girls and his son left to live with their mother. His stepson John, now 19, stayed with his father.

“The stress from my injuries just became too much to live with,” Upchurch said. “Those four years from 1999-02 were the worst of my life. I lost so much but still had so much to live for.”

Koby Upchurch displays his achievements, ranging from University of Arizona photo contests to his daily work as a photographer for the Daily Wildcat. Aztec Press photo by Leftrick Herd.

The reconstruction

In 2005, Upchurch decided he would no longer sit back and wait for change.

Although he tested at sixth-grade level in some areas, Upchurch disregarded his disability and registered for a Pima photography class with instructor Ann Simmons-Myers.

“Koby came to us with a desire. He wanted to learn so badly but his physical condition really prevented that,” Simmons-Meyers said. “We stuck with him and showed him some patience. He doesn’t give up.”

With countless hours of help from instructors, Upchurch earned associate degrees in both photography and administrative justice at Pima.

“I really wanted to contribute to society in some way,” he said. “I had to feel important, be a part of something again.”

Today, Upchurch and his son attend class at Pima together. Despite the trauma of his father’s accident, John Upchurch graduated at the top of his Desert View High School class while captaining his school’s swim team.

The two currently are enjoying a Spanish class with instructor Agustin Taylor.

“I’ve known Koby for about two years. At the beginning he was having a lot of problems, but now he’s a lot better, he’s even waking without a cane,” Taylor said. “He tries and tries and always wants to get better.”

The reward

Upchurch says he owes his friends and Pima faculty a big thank you. “I know I don’t fit the learning curve, but I really want to be here,” he said.

He is dual-enrolled as a junior in the University of Arizona School of journalism. A five-year program will allow him to earn his undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Between experiences in combat and at UA, Upchurch confirmed his decision to pursue a career in conflict journalism. “Just like the service, it gives me passion doing something I love,” he said.

His injuries still affect day-to-day life. Eight-hour school days feel like 24-hour military watches. He has replaced late nights with 7 p.m. bedtimes.

Still, he claims his massive injuries provided a sense of purpose.

“The accident, as awkward as it may sound, was one of the best things that has ever happened to my life,” he said.

The slight limp in his step hides behind constant smiles and countless stories.

“Today is a good day,” he said confidently.

All Souls Procession Nov. 6

Tucson’s beloved All Souls Procession takes place Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. The 22nd annual event will begin at Fourth Avenue and University Boulevard, and finish at Mercado San Augustine. Those wishing to participate are encouraged to meet at 5 p.m. at Fourth Avenue. See details at allsoulsprocession.org.

2010 photo by Larry Gaurano

Pima freshman wins cross country conference title

By MEGYN FITZGERALD

On Saturday, the running Aztecs attended the Grand Canyon University Invitational in Tempe where the No. 7 ranked Aztec women finished fourth and the No. 25 ranked Aztec men finished fifth.

With a time of 20:08, freshman Kelsey Montano finished 25th overall. Close on Montano’s heels and finishing in 26th and 29th places, sophomore Heidi Lopez and freshman Mary Cozby had times of 20:09 and 20:25, respectively.

For the men, freshman Lucas Ruiz pulled out all the stops and finished 13th overall with a time of 26:01. Freshmen Fabian Romero and David-Michael Scott were close behind and managed 18th and 28th places.

On Sept. 30, PCC traveled to Casa Grande in hopes of placing first in the 2011 Arizona Community College Athletic Conference championships, hosted by Central Arizona College.

In the men’s competition, Romero led the way for the Aztecs. He finished the 8 kilometer course in 27:02 and placed seventh overall. Freshmen Scott, Caleb Herrera and Aren Maxwell also ran well, placing 13th, 16th and 21st, respectively.

Romero earned All-ACCAC first team honors; Scott earned All-ACCAC second team honors and both Herrera and Maxwell picked up All-ACCAC honorable mention nods.

With the help of “Freshman Sensation” Jamie Shrader, the Aztec women finished second overall behind only Central. Shrader finished with a time of 19:23 in the 5 kilometer race, which earned her first place and an ACCAC individual championship.

Lopez finished close behind Shrader with a time of 19:52, earning her sixth place overall. Freshmen Lucia Hernandez and Cozby rounded out PCC’s top-five finishers, completing the race in 13th and 15th places.

Both Shrader and Lopez got All-ACCAC first team honors, while Montano and Hernandez earned spots on the second team.

The Aztecs will once again lace up their running shoes for competition on Oct. 14 when they take part in the Mt. SAC Invitational. Races are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. in Walnut, Calif.

Jamie Shrader finishes the Dave Murray Invitational, hosted by the University of Arizona. Aztec Press photo by James Kelley.

Aztecs rack up 8-0, 3-0 and 6-0 wins

By LYNDAJOE ECHERIVEL

The Pima Community College men’s soccer team ended its eight-game home stand with a win over GateWay Community College on Oct. 11.

“This was our turnaround point to finishing our problems and our forwards need to get our confidence back,” freshman forward Declan Fulton said. “Our team is the best in the league when we all play to our capabilities.”

The Aztecs (10-6-1 Arizona Community College Athletic Conference) smashed the Geckos, 8-0.

“I feel our season has been misleading, our record doesn’t reflect that,” Fulton said. “We have been playing really good soccer in every game but have been unlucky with our scoring.”

Six Aztecs had multi-point efforts in the conference win.

Sophomore forward Nicholas Peppe and sophomore midfielder Jeff Weiler each scored a pair of goals. Sophomore defender Eric Glad and freshman forward Matt Nagler each scored a goal and assisted on others.

Sophomore defender Alex Anderson and Fulton chipped in with a pair of assists each.

“Overall this season has been a real roller coaster, we score a lot of goals or we don’t score at all,” head coach Dave Cosgrove said.

“We play the best teams pretty well. We just don’t finish our chances and that’s really made things difficult this year.”

The Aztecs lost a double overtime game to No. 8 Arizona Western College on Oct. 8, 1-0. Pima had 13 shots on goal but AWC scored the game’s only goal at the 106 minute mark of the match.

PCC defeated the Cougars of South Mountain Community College on Oct. 6 with a win, 3-0.

Freshman forward Matt Nagler and sophomore defender Kolby Jacobson scored the two first half goals while sophomore defender Bryce Parker had the only score of the second half.

Sophomore goalkeeper Daniel Bacon and freshman Ben Eyde split time in the net as Bacon worked the first half, and Eyde finished the game.

No. 5 Yavapai College defeated Pima 2-0 on Oct. 4.

PCC managed six shots on goal but could not find the back of the net on the ACCAC’s top team.

Pima beat Paradise Valley Community College 6-0 Oct. 1.

Bacon earned the shutout in the net with three saves through 90 minutes of gameplay.  Six different Aztecs scored goals with Brennan and sophomore midfielder Marco Carillo leading the way as each scored once and picked up an assist on other goals.

Sophomore midfielder Jann Nash also scored his second goal in his second game.

PCC dropped a double overtime home game, 2-1, to Mesa Community College on Sept. 29.

MCC opened the scoring with five minutes left in the first half.

The Aztecs’ Peppe scored the only goal of the second half, sending the game into overtime. The teams played to a scoreless first overtime. With 3:01 remaining in the second overtime, the Thunderbirds scored.

Carlos Banegas prepares to strike a volley in a 2-0 loss to Yavapai at the West Campus on Oct. 4. Aztec Press photo by James Kelley.

Fall festivals offer fun for all tastes

Compiled by Nina Elliott

EAT, DRINK AND BE (VERY) MERRY

American Indian Feast

Oct. 1

Traditional foods of American Indian nations, entertainment and dinner served at San Xavier Plaza. $50 adv/ $60 at door.

Tickets: 295-1350

Oktoberfest at Café Passé

Oct. 1

Bratwurst and beers served after noon at 415 N. Fourth Ave; entertainment by the Bouncing Czechs, 6:30- 8:30 p.m.

Details: Cafepasse.com

Aztec Press photo by Ryan Tsarsis.

Tucson Oktoberfest

Sept. 29-Oct. 2

Optimist Club fundraiser features German food, beer/wine, artists and music at Hi Corbett Field.

Details: tucsonoktoberfest.org, 241-7730

Mount Lemmon Oktoberfest

Weekends through Oct. 9

German food, beer, music and dancing, 11:30 a.m-5 p.m at Ski Valley, 10300 Ski Run Road. Free, with $4 parking.

Details: skithelemmon.com, 576-1321

Tucson Culinary Festival

Oct. 27-30

Sample gourmet food and spirits from Tucson restaurants at 7000 N. Resort Drive. See website for costs.

Details: Tucsonculinaryfestival.com

Dogtoberfest

Oct. 9

Dog-friendly benefit event with contests, food and a beer garden at Tucson Hebrew Academy, 3888 E. River Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Details: Handi-dogs.org

MUSIC, ART

Fall Club Crawl

Oct.1

Tucson Weekly presents 90 bands performing on 30 stages in downtown Tucson and along Fourth Avenue for audiences ages 21 & over, 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Details: clubcrawl.ning.com, 740-1000

Tucson Film & Music Festival

Oct. 6-10

Upstairs Film presents the annual event, featuring indie film and music downtown. Tickets, starting at $6, available through brownpapertickets.com.

Details: Tucsonfilmandmusicfestival.com

Great Tucson Beer Festival

Oct. 8

Benefit for Sun Sounds of Arizona features beer sampling and live music at Hi Corbett Field. No one under age 21 admitted.

Details: Azbeer.com/Tucson, 296-2400

Southern Arizona Blues Heritage

Oct. 16.

Southern Arizona Blues Heritage Foundation hosts an all-day concert of blues music at the Reid Park bandshell.

Details: Azblues.org

Oro Valley Arts in the Park

Oct. 22-23

Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance stages a fine arts and music festival with 124 artists and food vendors at Riverfront Park, 551 W. Lambert Lane.

Details: 797-3959, Orovalleyfestival.org

Desert Bluegrass Music Festival

Oct. 28-30

Desert Bluegrass Association presents local, regional and national bluegrass bands, workshops and jam sessions, and a Friday night band contest at AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road.

Details: Desertbluegrass.org

CELEBRATING HALLOWEEN AND DAY OF THE DEAD

Fall Pumpkin Celebration, Willcox

Weekends through Oct. 30

Apple Annie’s presents hayrides, pumpkin picking and children’s activities every weekend in October.

Details: appleannies.com, 1-520-384-4685

Buckelew Farm Pumpkin Fest, Maze

Weekends through Oct. 31

Pumpkin festival, corn maze and a haunted cornfield at Buckelew Farm, 17000 W. Ajo Way.

Details: buckelewfarm.com, 822-2277

Nightfall at Old Tucson

Sept. 30-Oct. 31

The award-winning haunted town returns for Halloween terror. See website for dates, times. Admission: $25 adults.

Details: oldtucson.com, 883-0100

The Slaughterhouse

Sept. 30-Oct. 31

The haunted house on Grant Road at I-10 vows to show no mercy. See website for dates, times. General admission costs $21.

Details: slaughterhousetucson.com

Day of the Dead Exhibit-La Pilita

Oct. 10-Nov. 5

Diá de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) community altar created by schoolchildren, a shop offering icons, holiday-related items.

Details: 882-7454, Lapilita.com.

Haunted Ruins at Valley of the Moon

Oct. 13-30

The historical fantasy garden hosts costumed Halloween events for all ages Thursdays-Sundays. Admission $8.

Details: Tucsonvalleyofthemoon.com

The Great Pumpkin Race

Oct. 16

Southern Arizona Roadrunners hosts a cross-country-style 5K run through Buckelew Farm, including thr corn maze.

Details: Azroadrunners.org/races

Day of the Dead Exhibit

Oct. 18-Nov. 20

Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. alvernon Way, will showcase Dia de los Muertos artwork. Call for admission prices.

Details: Tucsonbotanical.org, 326-9686

TUCSON CULTURE, PRIDE

Mexican Baseball Fiesta

Oct. 7-9

Three Pacific League of Mexico teams and a team of future San Diego Padres players will play exhibition doubleheaders at Kino Stadium.

Details: Kinosportscomplex.com

Pride on Parade, Pride in the Desert

Oct. 8-9

The annual gay pride weekend includes a parade and block party on Saturday, and all-day events at Reid Park on Sunday.

Details: tucsonpride.org

Get Moving Tucson Half-Marathon

Oct. 9

Half-marathon traverses “A” Mountain. Companion 5K walk/run.

Details: Azroadrunners.org/races

Tucson Meet Yourself

Oct. 14-16

The folklife festival celebrates Southern Arizona’s diverse ethnic communities with performances, demonstrations, food vendors and children’s activities in downtown Tucson. Tucsonans in the know flock to the food samples and call the popular gathering “Tucson Eat Yourself.”

Details: tucsonmeetyourself.org

Festival of Flight

Oct. 14-16

Wings over the Desert at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum celebrates all winged creatures with raptor programs, live bat encounters and lectures, hummingbirds, live bugs, hands-on science and a tequila tasting.

Details: Desertmuseum.org, 883-2702

Blown in by Katrina – Part 2

Editor’s note: This is the second in a two-part series about Tucson resident Jerome Hubbard’s ordeal during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Part 1 told of the Hubbard family’s experiences when the storm struck. Family members became separated after the storm, and Hubbard spent time at the infamous New Orleans overpass where storm victims gathered to await aid.

By MYLO ERICKSON

In the middle of the night, Jerome Hubbard felt something tugging at his feet and saw a man trying to steal his boots. They fought and Hubbard won, but his pants got ripped in the brawl.

On Sept. 2, more people were brought to the Causeway Overpass where hurricane victims had gathered, and some were bused out.

At midday, activists Jesse Jackson and Cleo Fields showed up.

“They came up like a parade,” Hubbard said. “He’s using those big words that nobody cares to understand and doing his whole song and dance in front of the camera.”

During his time at the overpass, Hubbard constantly heard a woman’s hungry baby crying non-stop. She kept telling herself that the baby would be OK.

One evening, Hubbard noticed the baby was no longer crying. He saw the woman rocking the baby in her arms, and asked how it was doing. She told him it was asleep.

Hubbard took a peek and saw the baby was dead. When he saw dried tears on her face, he decided to move on and let the lady be alone.

He saw two other people die that night. One who was killed by another man after an all-night brawl. Hubbard said the other man “went crazy” and military personnel were forced to intervene.

At one point during the night, Hubbard and others broke into a ration truck to get food for people. After they unloaded a couple of boxes, they were stopped at gunpoint.

As soon as day broke, buses started coming in. Hubbard managed to jump on a bus that was headed toward Texas.

They arrived at a rest stop on the Louisiana-Texas border and got out to stretch their legs. State troopers pulled up to their spot and told everybody to get back on the bus.

Hubbard’s bus was supposed to go to Houston, but was diverted to Dallas. Before they arrived, they were told they were unwelcome in Dallas as well. People previously brought in by bus had caused too much trouble in the area.

As they headed out of town, Hubbard asked the driver where they were heading. The driver said he was just told to drive, and was awaiting instructions via CB radio.

Hubbard fell asleep. When he awoke, he saw amber lights and men running around with guns.

They had stopped at Fort Smith, Ark. People were now told to get off the bus and line up. Still half-asleep, Hubbard felt lost but did as he was told.

The evacuees entered a processing center and were handed a form to fill out.

Soldiers informed Hubbard that he was in a processing station for refugees, and the form would be his identity number. They also said the form would strip him of his citizenship.

Hubbard folded the form and walked away.

He and a few other men headed to a barracks, but quickly decided in the barracks that they weren’t going to stay. Military personnel informed them they could leave but said the exit was two miles away.

A couple of medics overheard the conversation, and told the men they were headed toward the exit. If people wanted to escape, there was nothing they could do.

Hubbard and his group took the hint. They hitched a ride in a medical vehicle, and jumped out near the exit.

After Hubbard climbed a fence, a Good Samaritan picked him up. The man bought Hubbard socks, a shirt and food, then dropped him off at the nearest bus station.

When Hubbard learned the cheapest one-way ticket was about $400, he decided to try the airport. When he arrived there, he learned a one-way ticked would cost about $580.

He called some of this friends and asked them to call his dad to let his father know that he was OK.

After taking a seat at the airport to think about his next move, Hubbard overheard a man talking on the phone about his family in Lafayette, La.

Two men dressed in scrubs walked by, and one stopped to ask Hubbard where he was from and where he was trying to get to. Hubbard said he would like to get to Houston.

The man told Hubbard he would be back. When he returned a few minutes later,  he told Hubbard that he and his cousin were trying to rent a car but couldn’t afford it. If Hubbard had $200, they could all leave.

Hubbard only had $100, but remembered the man on the phone trying to get to Lafayette. He found the man, who agreed to pitch in for the rental car.

At a stop along the way, Hubbard called his friends again and learned that his mom and dad met up and were in New Iberia, La.

The group dropped off one passenger in Houston, then headed east. Hubbard called his father, and asked him to pick him up in Lafayette. They arranged to meet at a mile post marker.

When they got to that mile marker, his dad was standing there.

Hubbard can’t describe his feelings at that moment. He walked over to his dad and said, “You ain’t mad at me, huh?”

They hugged, and Hubbard broke down. After a bit, they got into the car and drove to New Iberia. When they reached the house where his parents were staying, his dad said his mother was in the back of the house.

Hubbard felt a moment of panic, but headed to the back room. The room was dark.

When he opened the door, his mother looked up but didn’t realize who it was. She recognized him when he asked her how she was doing, and held out her arms for a hug.

Hubbard told her he was sorry, and they embraced in a moment of joy and relief. His long ordeal was over.

Jerome Hubbard. Aztec Press photo by Mylo Erickson.

PROLOGUE:

Once people were allowed to go back into New Orleans, Hubbard and his family got back into their house in October 2005.

They began a cleanup that took months. Hubbard’s father told him he needed to decide what to do. He didn’t want him to stay, as there would be no opportunities for some time.

Hubbard decided to move to Arizona, since he had relatives living in the state. He relocated to Tucson, and will receive a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts from the Art Institute of Tucson in December.

Back from the brink: Soccer player returns to playing field

BY LYNDAJOE ECHERIVEL

Pima Community College men’s soccer player Declan Fulton cheated death a year ago after a hiking trip turned awry.

Fulton and a few friends were hiking the Tanque Verde Falls in Sabino Canyon in late August 2010. They spotted waterfalls and started to jump from above into a big pool of water.

Further downstream, another waterfall spilled over a ledge. That waterfall dropped 50 feet drop into a pool that was no deeper than 10 feet. After a shouted conversation with people below the falls, Fulton decided to slide down the ledge into a closer pool of water.

“I went to grab my friend’s hand and slipped,” Fulton said. “I knew I was going to fall, so I just threw myself off anyway. That saved my life because I would have landed on the rock at the bottom.”

The people below witnessed the fall and pulled Fulton into the shade. An off-duty paramedic who happened to be nearby helped him until a helicopter arrived.

“I remember hearing the helicopter come and I had to get airlifted out of there,” Fulton said. “Apparently it took two hours to get to the hospital.”

His parents, who live in Sierra Vista, met him at the hospital. Fulton had broken his pelvis, his elbow, a vertebrae in his back and some teeth, and punctured a lung.

His head would have suffered much more damage if he hadn’t covered it with his elbow.

“My elbow pretty much took the full impact of the fall,” Fulton said.

The following morning, Fulton woke up with his hands attached to the hospital bed. He had just one worry.

“I was trying to ask everyone, would I be able to play again,” he said.

After multiple surgeries, he finally got the answer he wanted. He could play soccer again despite having initial surgery on his elbow and a seven-hour pelvis surgery.

Fulton was in a wheelchair for almost three months and had in-house rehabilitation treatment.

“He’s a good kid, a very resilient kid,” men’s soccer head coach David Cosgrove said. “It’s truly remarkable.”

Fulton moved to Sierra Vista while recovering from his injuries.

“I was living in a house with stairs, so I moved back in with my family for the rest of the year,” he said.

While rehabbing, he started walking again. He also began playing soccer with friends, but was in pain while playing.

“I was trying to do too much, so I just gave it some time while I was in a men’s league,” he said. “I was starting to get some speed back and picked up the game back.”

It was “kind of a wakeup call” when he returned to Tucson for preseason training with his Pima team.

“Everyone was in better shape than I was,” he said. “I was behind everything.”

Declan Fulton makes his 10th appearance after last year's hiking accident. Aztec Press photo by Larry Gaurano.

Fulton and Cosgrove agree that he isn’t back to 100 percent yet but has made significant strides in improving his game.

“Everyone knows that I’ve still got what it takes and it’s just going to take time for it to come back,” Fulton said.

“It’s amazing, he went from being in a wheelchair to scoring goals,” teammate Jordan Benson said.

Cosgrove is grateful to have Fulton back in the lineup.

“He’s getting better and better and considering where he was about this time last year, it’s a remarkable story,” Cosgrove said. “He does play every game and he logs significant time. He is a key component of the team right now.”

Fulton is currently the Pima men’s top scorer, with more than six goals and four assists.

“Declan is scoring the most goals and playing the best for us,” Cosgrove said.

Aztecs finish 4th, 6th at UA

By MEGYN FITZGERALD

The Pima Community College women’s cross country team retained its place in the top 10 while participating in the Dave Murray Invitational, hosted by the University of Arizona, on Sept. 16.

The Aztec men finished third among junior colleges and the No. 7 women finished second.

“It was a mix of good and bad,” head coach Greg Wenneborg said. “The men found out how talented our region is and held their own.”

Jamie Shrader runs in a pack of NCAA Division I athletes on Sept. 16. Aztec Press photo by James Kelley.

The men raced to sixth place overall out of nine teams.

Freshman Luis Ruiz was top performer for the PCC men with a time of 22:53 on the 4.25 mile course. He placed 27th overall and eighth among junior college participants.

“I think I just raced smarter,” Ruiz said about the difference between this meet and the last. “I’m happy with our performance, but I know we’re capable of a lot better.”

Freshmen Fabian Romero and David-Michael Scott also ran well, snagging 33rd and 38th places.

The Aztec women finished second among junior college teams, losing to No. 1 Central Arizona College.

“The women came within 10 points of the No. 1 ranked team in the country,” Wenneborg said.

Pima finished fourth overall at the meet, behind the UA, Northern Arizona University and Central Arizona.

Freshman Jamie Shrader led the way as she ran the three-mile course in 18:29. She finished first among junior college competitors, 21st overall.

Freshman Kelsey Montano and sophomore Heidi Lopez both finished just behind Shrader in the top 10 with times of 19:14 and 19:49. They finished 29th and 35th overall.

The men's cross country team begins the Dave Murray Invitational, a meet hosted by the University of Arizona at the Del Urich Golf Course on Sept. 16. Aztec Press photo by James Kelley.

Sept. 27 lecture series talk to explore world of dance

By LaBREAL YOUNG

Pima Community College dance instructor Aurora Gonçalves-Shaner will share the history of dance Sept. 27 at the first Speakers’ Series lecture for fall semester.

“I want people to have a better understanding of how dance is a part of humanity,”  she said. “I want to take them on a journey through primitive dance to today.”

The free “Dance Origins” talk will begin at 6 p.m. in the PCC District Office Community Board Room (Building C), 4905 E. Broadway Blvd.

In addition to discussing the historical background of tribal, ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary and ballroom dance styles, Gonçalves-Shaner will share her experiences as a choreographer, performer and dance instructor for PCC and the University of Arizona.

“Everyone is born with the ability to dance and move to the beat,” she said. “I want people to walk away with an appreciation and to be inspired. I want them to want to take a dance class and have a sense of creativity.”

Gonçalves -Shaner developed her own love of dance at a young age. She studied classical ballet and modern dance techniques in Bahia, Brazil, then performed internationally with a professional dance company.

Her passion is ballet, but she loves ballroom dancing and has won national titles in ballroom competitions.

She holds a Bachelor of Art degree in dance from Brigham Young University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Arizona.

The Speakers’ Series is co-sponsored by the provost and the faculty senate. Two other presentations will be held this fall.

On Oct. 25, counseling faculty member Amy C. Davis will discuss “Storytelling and the Art of Helping.” She will explain how storytelling can serve as a powerful medium for learning and for overcoming academic and personal concerns.

The final talk will be Nov. 15, when music faculty member Mark A. Nelson discusses “The tuba as a Solo Instrument: A 75-Year Retrospective.”

Photo courtesy of Ed Flores.