AAMSAZ Updates

October 2024

As we wrapped up August, and Fall into September, and now are here in October…it's clear that our months have been action-packed! From exciting events to meaningful updates, it's been a whirlwind of activity.

I love October! Why do I love October? 

It’s the stunning colors of nature that captivate me. To see the full spectrum, you might need to head to the mountains or the northern or northeastern regions, but the beauty is worth the trip. In Tucson, October brings breathtaking sunsets and a cool breeze at night and early morning, signaling the start of the winter season. Let’s savor the wonders of nature and honor the Earth as it prepares for its next orbit around the sun in just a few months!

You might recall that last year I mentioned a book by journalist Robin Pogrebin, "What Does It Take to Run a Museum? The Job Description is Changing." Well, the job continues to evolve, and as a former educator now back in the volunteer saddle, it’s time for me to gracefully step into retirement again. I’ve drafted a job description for my replacement, and we’ll be advertising soon. Although moving on is bittersweet, I’ve cherished this role immensely—it's been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life… other than my family!

This past year has been a blessing for both the museum and me, and I am deeply grateful. I’ve just finished writing our Annual Report for the 2023–2024 fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and like a kid on Christmas Eve, I’m excited about what the future holds for the museum, a new Executive Director, and our community.

I've also enjoyed writing this newsletter for the past almost 2 years, while Jenny made it look beautiful! Well, Jenny has been helping with writing the past few months and I am so grateful! I hope you’re finding it as enlightening as I do. I often find myself saying,

“I didn’t know that!” To celebrate our learning moments. As a new point of keeping data, we’re adding a bell to the museum.



Whenever someone says, “I didn’t know that!” on a tour, we’ll ring the bell.

It’s a fun way to track how much we’re teaching and inspiring visitors.

Here’s to a wonderful fall season



Happy Fall Y’All!

In Community,

Beverely Elliott, Executive Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

We are a movement, not just a museum!

Hailey, Cyn and Sharley,Thank you so much for honoring us as the recipients of your bi-annual “Making Black History Market” event. We deeply appreciated the opportunity to network with Black-owned businesses during Black Business Month and to introduce the museum to new audiences.

Visit Zemam's!

Your support and the platform you provided were invaluable to us. (August 31, 2024)

On August 31^st , Volunteers Jamie Clark and Rose Taulton, along with curator Jenny Li and Executive Director Beverely Elliott, manned a display table at Zemam’s bi-annual Making Black History Market. This vibrant event highlighted African American culture and featured Black-owned businesses showcasing their products.

We were thrilled to discover and purchase the amazing, chemical-free carpet fresh in lavender and vanilla—it's fantastic! We encouraged friends and family to attend, and were delighted to see at least 20 people who mentioned they read about the event in our newsletter. It was great to catch up with Corky, Tani, Kimberlee, and Carmishun.

My boss, Pete showed up!

Thanks Pete! We truly appreciated you stopping and to all of those of you who attended.

And the food—simply outstanding! If you haven't been to Zemam’s, you’re missing out. We enjoyed a delicious spread of greens, chicken, green beans, and lentils.

We spoke to a few families who promised they’d be back for more… we will too!

The University of Arizona Sports Hall of Fame held its induction ceremony on

Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Westin La Paloma Resort.

Celebrating a Century of Sports Excellence,

the Hall of Fame now includes nearly 360 individuals and over 60 teams who have achieved outstanding success at the collegiate level.

This year’s inductees lived up to the Hall’s prestigious legacy. Dr. Don Porter, honored for his remarkable 30-year tenure as Head Team Physician, was recognized for his exceptional service and expertise. Also inducted was Lawi Lalang, a standout in Indoor Track runner who secured eight NCAA championships and was named Indoor National Men’s Track Athlete of the Year. Nick Ross, was a 9 time All-American in track and field and won PAC -10 honors 3 years in a row, he also won the Pac-10 Freshman of the Year Award.

As a basketball family, we were delighted to see these inductees:

• U of A Alum Andre Iguodala, a 4 time NBA Champion with the Golden State Warriors, All Pac-10, AP All-American, 19 year career in the NBA, and a USA Men’s Basketball Gold Medal Winner! (Pictured with former inductee Bob Elliott)
• U of A Alum and graduate Jason Terry, a member of the 1997 Men’s National Championship team, the 1997 Player of the year, All- American, All Pac 10, 19 years in the NBA, and a NBA Championship with the Dallas Mavericks.
• LaMont Hunley was among many former inductees and Larry Starks and our top volunteer Rose Taulton were on hand to enjoy the ceremony. Jenny, our curator was there too but took these photos! Thanks Jenny!

Come and support the African American Legacy Fund (AALF)!

And the Southern Arizona Community Foundation

AAMSAZ would not have started  without AALF

https://cfsaz.org/event/blackayo/

The African American Legacy Fund (AALF) invites you to join us for an evening of drinks, a West African and Sonoran inspired plated dinner, and community connection!

Join Us for the Black Ayo:

African American Legacy Fund

Annual Fundraiser!

Thank you AALF- AAMSAZ

Mark your calendars for an inspiring evening as we celebrate the legacy and impact of the African American Legacy Fund (AALF) in Southern Arizona.

Date & Time:

Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Location:

Downtown Clifton | 485 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

Tickets: 

$75 per person ($24 fair market value, $51 tax-deductible)

The AALF Annual Fundraiser will honor two outstanding community champions

We are thrilled to congratulate Bob and Beverely Elliott, AAMSAZ Board Chair and Executive Director, on receiving the prestigious Dr. Anna Jolivet Community Champion Award. This recognition celebrates their unwavering commitment and leadership within the African American community of Southern Arizona!

Jenny Li

During the event, AALF will also highlight the remarkable achievements of its grant recipients and the success of the African American Leadership Institute of Southern Arizona.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of drinks, a delicious plated dinner inspired by West African and Sonoran flavors, and the chance to connect with fellow community members.

Space is limited, so please complete the form below to purchase your tickets today! 

Artist Bill Singleton has spent the past year researching Tucson's railroad history for his new mural at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum. Titled “Arrival of the Railroad: The Mural That Tells the Multicultural Story.” The mural captures three key periods in the region's railroad history. Singleton notes, “The arrival of the train was pivotal for Tucson, transforming it from a small town into a growing city by making goods more accessible and boosting exports like copper and cotton. The mural, created in collaboration with the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, The African American Museum of Southern Arizona, and the Tohono O’odham Nation, aims to accurately reflect this historical impact.

We were honored to have been asked to participate in this historical art piece. We based some of our information on community people – Sam Newsome – thank you Delano Price, Advisory Board member for your constant community and museum support!



References: Arizona Daily Star /Mamta Popat & Sierra Blaser

Juneteenth

Is a not a moment

but a movement

(we love this movement)

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, Larry Starks, President of the Juneteenth Festival Committee, held his 3^rd annual Sponsor, Donor, Appreciation Reception.

What a beautiful event!

It was held at the YWCA /Laura Banks Center.

We send out a Big Thank you to Board Member Alfredo Prince, and videographerTrevor Davies, for their hard work and dedication to producing a new 2024 PSA video that will be shown everywhere COX is one of our esteemed Legacy Founder Investors; your commitment to supporting the African American Museum of Southern Arizona is truly appreciated. Enjoy the video and see the impact of our efforts in action!

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, is a time to honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino American sisters and brothers. The observance began on September 15, a significant date as it marks the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

This celebratory month also serves as a reminder to promote understanding and appreciation of the traditions and values that enrich our nation. Celebrations often include cultural events, educational programs, and community gatherings.  

Personally, thank you Emma (one of our beloved former interns) I absolutely love El Charro here in Tucson! Just a heads up—I’m married to a foodie, so we’re always on the lookout for new dining experiences. One of the wonderful ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by exploring the delicious Mexican cuisine available in our town, or yours, and across the country.

And let’s not forget the joy of table-side salsa and guacamole!

It’s a perfect way to indulge and appreciate the rich culinary traditions.

We’re excited to announce our partnership with Arizona Theatre Company (ATC) for their upcoming performance of Scrooge! Join us on Wednesday, November 6th at 7:30 PM for a night of fantastic theater and community spirit. AAMSAZ will be there, and we’d love to see you too! Bring your friends, enjoy the show, and support local arts. ATC is proud to offer Community Night for each play in their 2024/2025 season, making theater accessible to all. Don’t miss out on this special evening!

Cleo Robinson, a long time serving official in Southern Arizona, is set to retire after nearly 50 years of officiating. If you've played high school football or basketball in the area, there's a good chance Cleo has officiated one of your games. His many accolades include being named AIA Official of the Year and receiving the Arizona Official of the Year award from the National Federation of Interscholastic Officials Association in 1998. He has officiated Pac-12 games and numerous bowl games, making him a prominent figure in the officiating community. Notably, Cleo was appointed to officiate Pacific 10 football games and Big Sky basketball games, becoming the only Arizona official to work NCAA Division I in two sports. Additionally, a street has been named in honor of his father who worked hard with the community.

Pima County Sports Hall of Fame

Inducted Class of 2016

Cleo graduated from Marana High School in 1965, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. During his senior year, he earned several athletic honors, including 1st Team All-State Linebacker, 2nd Team All-Conference in basketball, and top finishes in the state for both high and low hurdles, as well as a first-place finish in the 880 relay. He attended NAU for college. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Marana Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.

By the way, he raised and is the grandfather of Southern Arizonan, Salpointe Alum, and now Atlanta Falcon Bijan Robinson!

Get ready for the 25th Annual Days of Caring, happening on Friday, November 1st & Saturday, November 2nd. This is the largest volunteer event in Arizona, and we want YOU to be a part of this milestone celebration!

Volunteers will roll up their sleeves to complete projects to make a positive impact in our community. Don't miss the chance to make your impact during this historic event! Check out some of these wonderful opportunities!

https://daysofcaring.goldenvolunteer.com/

The State of Black Arizona Virtual event Wednesday 10/2/24 5:30 – 7:00 virtual event

Learn about Financial literacy, role of local government, intergenerational wealth, etc.

Voters Are Advised to Return Their Ballots Early Because of Mail Delay Concerns.

How to Become More Findable in the Marketplace / Available on Amazon

By UA Alum Ms. Jenelle Lewis

In today’s competitive market, it’s challenging for businesses to stand out and reach the right audience. You might have an outstanding product or service, but if people don’t know about it, your growth will stall, and potential customers will miss out. This book explores the crucial issue of visibility and how essential it is for boosting sales. Entrepreneurs need to harness their inner superhero to overcome these challenges, increase revenue, and grow their businesses.

Each winter....Yes, it is coming! That’s when Tucson transforms into a dazzling hub for gem enthusiasts, jewelry lovers, mineral collectors, and fossil fans during the world-renowned 

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase!

 This year, more than 65,000 visitors from around the world will flock to Tucson, for an immersive experience that spans three weeks. Tucson's Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Showcase is coming back to town February 1 - February 16, 2025. 

Visit Tucson will be producing, in partnership with Madden Media, the Official Gem Guide for 2025.The Guide will be formatted in a handy pocket size and will include a quick reference map and chart to help visitors easily find shows and vendors.

There are over 40 gem show locations scattered across the city, and the showcase offers an opportunity to buy, sell, and trade rare and mesmerizing gems, minerals, and fossils. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone !

Planning to visit Tucson? Mark your calendar for this not-to-be-missed event. Alongside the main shows, you'll find related events, educational talks, great food, and even a Free day at the Gem & Mineral Museum; founder Mr. Alan Norville and director Violette Wolf have organized a wonderful place to learn and enjoy pure beauty! It's the perfect chance to explore Tucson's vibrant gem and mineral scene while enjoying the city's warm hospitality.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary extravaganza.

Thank you Henry Breen of the Arizona Daily Star… You always take care of history!

After its customary summer closure, the Fort Lowell Museum has reopened with a host of exciting updates. The 61-year-old landmark, located at 2900 N. Craycroft Road in Fort Lowell Park, had been closed since July 1 for enhancements.

During this break, the museum staff worked on several improvements, including the creation of a new introductory space that features a timeline covering the region from the present day back to the Hohokam era, over 1,500 years ago. The museum also introduced a fresh exhibit on the Buffalo Soldiers and expanded its Apache history and culture display into a dedicated room.

To make room for these new features, several existing displays have been repositioned to better align with the museum's overarching narrative. While Fort Lowell served as a military supply post from 1873 to 1891, the area's rich history stretches back centuries, with human activity centered around the lush riparian zone where Tanque Verde Creek and Pantano Wash merge to form the Rillito River. The updates come as part of a $335,000 renovation funded by city bond revenue. Congratulations!

2024 Loft Film Fest tickets on sale now!

Do you love the movies?

Unstoppable - Wednesday, October 16 @ 7:00 PM

This is an inspiring true story about Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome, Moonlight), who was born with one leg but whose spirit and unbreakable resolve empowered him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams of becoming a champion wrestler.

Dusty Stone - Friday, October 18 @ 7:30 PM 

This is a rousing documentary chronicles the remarkable ride of cousins Gazi “Dusty” Simelane and Linda “Stone” Msibi, a determined duo of struggling country singers from the tiny African Kingdom of Swaziland who long for their big break.



Winner of the Golden Bear Award, Berlin International Film Festival 2024

Lecture Series:

Discover the Fascinating History of the Buffalo Soldiers!

Buffalo Soldiers and the Mystery of the Wham Robbery

AAMSAZ was filming a historical project with Dr. Michael Engs at Traildust Town. Executive Director Beverely Elliott and volunteer Jamie are discussing the script.

Saturday, October 26 from 10-1 pm / Ft Lowell Museum

Fort Lowell Park /2900 N. Craycroft Rd.

https://tucsonpresidio.com/fort-lowell/

The Wham Payroll Robbery

This audacious robbery in May 1889 pitted the Buffalo Soldiers against white residents of southern Arizona. Two Buffalo soldiers received the Medal of Honor for their bravery through the robbers and were exonerated by a Tucson jury. What happened to the $28,000? Come and find out.

Support provided by the Presidio Trust for Historic Preservation and the GSAAC Buffalo Soldiers. 

Biking Through History: The Buffalo Soldiers' 1897 Ride

Saturday, November 16, 2024 / 2 – 3PM

JoJo's Restaurant

76 W Washington Street

https://www.jojostucson.com/

Mountain Bikers of the Western Plains: 25th Infantry Buffalo Soldier Bicycle Corps

This presentation will highlight the exploits of the 1897 bike ride of these United States Army Buffalo soldiers from Missoula, Montana, to St. Louis, Missouri. This inspirational journey has inspired numerous modern recreational and professional bicyclists, including the Tour de Tucson and the Tucson Police Bicycle Corps.

October 25-27, 2024, at the West Valley Event Complex, Glendale, Arizona. Single day tickets and three day passes are on-sale now at www.azjazzfest.com or call 602-244-8444.

October 25, 2024 - Erykah Badu, KEM, Stokely, Gerald Albright, Tony Toni Tone, Mike Phillips, Julian Vaughn, Rebecca Jade, J White

October 26, 2024 - The Isley Brothers, Joe, Sheila E., Raheem DeVaughn, Eric Roberson, Jeff Bradshaw, Justin Lee Schultz, J White

October 27, 2024 - Fantasia, The O’Jays, Musiq Soulchild, Michael Lington & Nathan Mitchell, Kevin Ross, J. Brown & LeVelle, Paul Taylor, Adam Hawley, Lin Rountree & Algebra Blessett, J White.

https://tickets.azjazzfest.com/event?e=gYg

Shadows of the ’60s: A Holiday Tribute to Motown

Save the Date and buy your tickets NOW!

December 14, 2024 7:30

Get ready for a night of Motown magic with Shadows of the 60s! Celebrate the legendary hits of The Four Tops, The Temptations, and more, plus classic Christmas favorites with a Motown twist! From “Silent Night” to “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” experience the festive cheer in this stunning tribute. Get ready for soulful voices, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable choreography. Join us for a holiday show that will have you dancing all night long!  Thank you Phoebe Chalk Wadsworth!

National Day of Racial Healing: A Call for Unity and Collective Action

• National Fire Prevention Month: Raise awareness about fire safety and prevention to protect lives and property.
• National Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Support research, raise awareness, and honor survivors of breast cancer.
• National Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrate the vibrant culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
• Vegetarian Month: Explore plant-based meals and embrace a healthier, eco-friendly lifestyle.
• National Women in AI Month: Recognize and uplift the achievements of women in artificial intelligence, driving innovation and equality.

October: A Month to Celebrate Diversity, Innovation, and Wellness!

• October 1st — International Coffee Day: Brew up some joy and celebrate your favorite cup!
• October 1st — National Pumpkin Spice Day: Embrace the seasonal flavor of pumpkin spice!
• October 4th — National Cinnamon Roll Day: Treat yourself to a warm, gooey cinnamon roll!
• October 7th — National Inner Beauty Day: Recognize and celebrate your inner beauty.
• October 10th — World Mental Health Day: Raise awareness about mental health and community resources.
• October 16th — Dictionary Day: Share fun, little-known words with others!
• October 18th — Loud Shirt Day: Raise money for children with hearing loss by wearing a loud shirt.
• October 25th — International Artist Day: Support a local artist or art gallery. Check out Blue Lotus Gallery!
• October 31st — Halloween, National Caramel Apple Day, and Magic Day: So anyone who knows me… you know I LOVE Caramel Apples! Yummy. Thanks, Brenton and Jeremy, for always remembering how I love them!

This film shows us the life of 5 NBA Superstars

Athletes are not only reshaping the sports media landscape with their own podcasts but are now venturing into documentaries as well.

Netflix has announced a new

NBA docuseries, "Starting 5"

set to premiere on October 9.

This series will offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at NBA stars LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, Jimmy Butler, and Domantas Sabonis throughout the 2023-24 season.

The 10-part series promises to dive deep into the demanding world of professional basketball, showcasing the intense 82-game grind and how these elite athletes manage their physical and personal lives. According to Netflix's press release, Starting 5 aims to reveal the secrets behind how these top players maintain their performance and balance amidst the pressures of a rigorous NBA season.

Just a note: The show boasts an impressive lineup of producers, including LeBron James’ UNINTERRUPTED, The Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions, and Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions.

The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) has acquired a significant collection of Charleston Slave Badges. Introduced in 1783, this system required enslaved African Americans, whose labor was leased out, to wear registered identification. South Carolina, a major entry point for enslaved people in Colonial North America, profited greatly from the trade and labor of enslaved individuals.

Charleston slave badge for Porter No.165,1805. Smithsonian Collection

In Charleston, enslavers who rented out their enslaved workers had to register them to prevent them from passing as free African American/Black individuals. The badge system also required free African American people to register and wear a badge, subjecting all Black residents to stringent government oversight. 

(from the Smithsonian)

The Army's first Black three-star general, Retired Lt. Gen. Arthur Gregg, has passed away at 96. Gregg, who retired in 1981, was a pioneering leader with a distinguished career that spanned from post-Vietnam to the development of the Army and Air Force Exchange System (AAFES). He was also the first Black general in the quartermaster corps and the first Black deputy chief of staff for Army logistics.

The Army honored Gregg and Lt. Col. Charity Adams, of the 6888th Postal Battalion, and the highest-ranking Black female officer in World War II, by renaming Fort Lee in Virginia to Fort Gregg-Adams. At the renaming ceremony, Gregg expressed hope that the new name would inspire pride among Soldiers.

Kid of the Year! - Time Magazine

TIME Magazine reveals the 2024

Kid of the Year, recognizing one exceptional young person—and five honorees—giving hope for the future.  

This year’s recipient is 15-year-old scientist Heman Bekele from Fairfax, Virginia. He is recognized for developing an affordable compound-based bar of soap that could in the future be a new and more accessible way to deliver medication to treat skin cancers, including melanoma. 

Bekele tells TIME: “I’m really passionate about skin-cancer research…. whether it’s my own research or what’s happening in the field. It’s absolutely incredible to think that one day my bar of soap will be able to make a direct impact on somebody else’s life. That’s the reason I started this all in the first place.” 



(from Time Magazine)

Carl Weathers Honored Posthumously with a Star on Walk of Fame:

Carl Weathers was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, receiving the second Sports Entertainment Walk of Fame star, following Michael Strahan’s in 2023. Raiders owner Mark Davis, along with friends LeVar Burton and Bryce Dallas Howard, spoke at the ceremony honoring Weathers, who passed away on February 2 at age 76.

Actor Carl Weathers at the Explosion Jones press room, where that animated TV series was being promoted, on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, Day 1 of the 2017 New York Comic Con.

Are you registered?

How to confirm your voter registration status

Check your voter registration online to confirm your voter registration number and if you are still registered. Verify your name, address, political party, and polling place.

How to check if you are registered to vote

1.    Visit Can I Vote and select "voter registration status." (https://www.nass.org/can-I-vote)

2.    Choose your state. You will be taken to a page on your state's election website.

3.    Check to see if you are registered.

This is the link above (Can I Vote): https://www.nass.org/can-I-vote

Our Legacy Founder Investors

Our Legacy Founder Investors (LFI)

COX,

TEP,

Elliott Family Charity,

Zuckerman Family Foundation,

Tucson Foundation

Thank you for your

unwavering support! 

Our Website:

AAMSAZ.org

Join our team of volunteers!

Join the effort to preserve African American history and culture in Southern Arizona. AAMSAZ welcomes volunteers. Background checks will be conducted. We are committed to finding meaningful ways for you to contribute. Please contact us at AAMuseumofSouthernAZ@gmail.com to learn how you can volunteer.

General Admission to the museum is free. 

Please consider Making a Donation in any amount. Thank you!

Please know that we do not share or distribute emails that we receive.