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Digital Downloads - Your Library on Demand

Library programs and events that you can download!

Authors

Photo of Silviana Wood
Silviana Wood - What's in a Name
3/21/09

Listen now (Running time: 1:21:17)

Silviana Wood, local writer and artist, presented an interactive program at the Nuestras Raices Literary Festival about personal names and nicknames of people who grew up in Tucson's barrios. Origins of nicknames like Güero, Chapa and Chito were explored. How were these names and nicknames chosen? What is the story behind your name or nickname?

Photo of Betty Webb
Betty Webb Introduces Her New Mystery Series
2/28/09

Listen now (Running time: 1:21:17)

Betty Webb, author of the hard-hitting Lena Jones Mystery series, has created a new series that combines her passion for zoos, animals, house boats and humor.

The first book in the new series, Anteater of Death, takes place at the Gunn Zoo in a small harbor town in California. Lucy, the zoo's anteater, at first appears to have killed a visitor! Zookeeper Teddy can not believe her beloved anteater could be capable of such a thing, and is vindicated when a bullet is found in the body. Teddy then goes on a quest to find the doer of the dastardly deed and restore Lucy's good name.

Listen to a fascinating discussion by Betty Webb about life, love and Lucy.

Visit Betty's website.

Photo of Nancy Turner
A Visit with Author Nancy Turner
(4/2/08)

Listen now (Running time: 43:32)

Nancy Turner discussed her book These Is My Words, the 2008 OneBookAZ selection, and answered questions from the audience at Joel D. Valdez Main Library during a Food for Thought presentation. Learn more about OneBookAZ

Photo of Mem Fox
Creating a Community of Readers ...Starting at Birth - featuring Mem Fox
(3/5/08)

Presentation: The Importance of Reading Aloud - Listen now (Running time: 01:11:02)

This presentation looked at the enthusiastic use of books, poems and reading aloud as a way of preparing children in the happiest manner for their entry into the world of literacy. It also explored ways in which teachers in elementary school can ensure these students continue their eager journey on the road to literacy success.

Mem Fox was an Associate Professor in Literacy Studies at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, where she taught teachers for twenty four years until her early retirement in 1996. She has received many civic awards, honours and accolades in Australia, including two honorary doctorates. She has visited the United States ninety seven times, mostly in her role as a literacy expert although she is also a well-known author in America. She is an influential international consultant in literacy, but she pretends to sit around writing full time.

Lawrence Clark Powell Memorial Lecture
Photo of Gary Paul Nabhan
Lectures
Photo of Bunny Fontana
Lifetime Achievement Awards
Inside the Writers Workshops
  • Listen to Shannon Cain and Lucy Corin Shannon Cain, curator and host of Inside the Writers' Workshop, is a creative writing coach and the executive director of Kore Press, an independent publisher of literature by women writers. Lucy Corin is the author of a collection of stories, The Entire Predicament, and a novel, Everyday Psychokillers: A History for Girls. Shannon Cain will talk with Lucy Corin about the process of writing fiction. How do stories start and where do they come from? What actually happens in revision after spellcheck? How do you know when a story is done or when to give up? How do you let go or move on? What's different when you're working on a novel?
    Ms. Corin will also read briefly from her new book The Entire Predicament (Tin House, 2007). The conversation promises to be filled with anecdotes from experience that will enhance your reading life, concrete strategies you can use in your own creative work, plenty of differing opinions, and lots of fun.
OneBookAZ
Photo of Richard Shelton

Going Back to Bisbee, the award-winning memoir by Tucson author Richard Shelton, was chosen as OneBookAZ in 2007. This heart-warming road trip through the desert Southwest is the one book everyone will read and talk about during Arizona's annual celebration of books and reading.

Going Back to Bisbee is a captivating journey of discovery. From behind the wheel of his sturdy blue van, Shelton is an able guide as he navigates through the desert landscape, sharing observations about unique flora and fauna, examining historic sites, and pausing for reflection or refreshment in a cool-running stream. It won the Western States Book Award for Creative Nonfiction in 1992. The judges noted, "If you love the Southwestern deserts you will love this book. If you don�t know them, this book will lead you to them."

SciFi Pros on SciFi Prose
Science Fiction artwork by Liz Danforth
Authors Dennis McKiernan, Emma Bull, and John Vornholt discuss the pros and cons of writers groups, what has worked successfully for them and when groups have turned out badly. Get ideas about how to make a group work for you! (September 2007)

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Poetry

2007 Valencia Teen Poetry Festival
Image of beatnik poet
The 2007 festival categories were Heartfelt, HodgePodge, Festival Favorite and Speak Up (socio-political/cultural themes).
A Celebration of Possibility: Youth Poetry Contest Winners 2006

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That's My Take Teen Trailers

Tucson teens teamed up with PCPL to make trailers out of their favorite books. Getting lost in a book has never been so easy!

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Library Presentations

Food For Thought

Food for Thought logo
A Reader's Theatre of The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams, presented by the Arizona Theatre Company.
2/25/10
Listen in as members of the Arizona Theatre Company staff lead a Reader's Theatre event that asked members of our community to take on the exciting challenge of portraying some of America's greatest literary characters with guidance from trained acting professionals..
Twitter 101
2/11/10
What is Twitter and why should you care? Professional communicator Julie Ray will guide you through this social networking phenomenon and demonstrate how to maximize Twitter for business and/or personal use. The workshop will cover setting up an account, developing your Twitter identity, building a follower base, Twitter vocabulary and etiquette, using Twitter for self-promotion, and Twitter trends. Bring a laptop or mobile device and get ready to jump into the fantastic world of micro-blogging.
African Cultural Astronomy
2/04/10
Dr. Jarita Holbrook, Assistant Research Scientist, College of Science, University of Arizona resents an overview of the indigenous astronomy of various ethnic groups in Africa.
The History of Mexican Food
1/28/10
Presented by Tucson Museum of Art docent Corinne Milton.
Learn about the foods that originated in Mexico and how they made an impact on the cuisines of the rest of the world. Explore the foods introduced by Europeans to Mexico in the following centuries and how they changed the Mexican diet. This mixture of the imported foods along with the original Mexican foods have made Mexican food one of the five great cuisines of the world.
This program is part of the library's Nuestras Raices: Celebrating Mexican-American Authors, Arts and Culture program.
Tucson: Little Giant of Contemporary Art
1/14/10
Mike Dominguez, of Davis Dominguez Gallery, presents an insider's look into the vibrant Tucson contemporary art scene, including museums, galleries and artists. Plus answers to the questions, "What is contemporary art, where does it come from and why should I care."
The Changing Nature of Resources on Arizona's Native American Lands
11/12/09
Presented by Barbara Jaquay, Ph.D. While no fence demarcates the boundary between the Native American reservation and a metropolitan area, a sharp boundary is readily apparent on the landscape. Since the legalization of gaming on Native American lands, land as an economic base has changed for those tribal lands in proximity to metropolitan areas. Other tribes must continue to develop their natural resources to attract economic growth to the community and to provide jobs to tribal members. Outdoor recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking will always attract outdoor enthusiasts, but the economic gain is low for tribes near metropolitan areas compared to leasing their land for economic development or building gaming facilities. . This presentation focuses on several Arizona reservations and explore how each has developed their lands for economic gain while trying to maintain their Native cultures.
Gunfight at the OK Corral
10/01/09
Presented by Dr. Jack Ziegler. The OK Corral shootout is shrouded in myth. Through research in legal documents, photographs, diaries, newspapers, and scholarly studies, Ziegler examines the confrontation as it looked in the late fall of 1881, and contends that the gunfight centered on the political and financial control of Tombstone. The shootout marked the climax of a power struggle between the "world unfenced" of the cowboys and the law-and-order world of the town-centered Earps.
Planning for Health, Wellness & Caregiving
9/24/09
Presented by Career Services Unlimited. Learn about your mind-body connection and six practices you can do to improve your health. Learn how to become a partner with your health-care provider, develop a "wellness" mindset and maintain your mental health. Learn where to go for caregiver training and some of the financial consequences of caregiving..
The Role of the Mass Media in our Uncertain and Uncivil Society
9/10/09
Presented by John E. Craft, Ph.D., Professor, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Arizona State University. In our complex and diverse society, most must of us rely on the mass media in order to know and understand events that are happening beyond our immediate environment. But many of us are becoming increasingly distrustful of the images of our world that the media portray for us. This presentation will examine the role that the media is expected to play in our democratic society, and specific incidents of success and failure.
Financial Literacy at Midlife, presented by Career Services Unlimited
8/27/09
Learn ways to manage your income and expenses at midlife. You'll gain basic literacy of financial terms and concepts, such as your insurance needs, stocks, bonds and mutual funds, your "risk tolerance," how taxes affect your investment income and what questions to ask a financial professional. This is a Fit for Life 50+ program. It is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Arizona Department of Library, Archives and Public Records..
Travel to Iran
08/06/2009
Presented by Ingrid Trebisky, Pima County Public Librarian. Travel to Iran: Come hear PCPL librarian Ingrid Trebisky describe her recent travel adventures in the Islamic Republic of Iran, formerly known internationally as Persia until 1935. Get a glimpse of what the real Iran is like today through photos and gain an understanding of this country we label the "Axis of Evil".
Volunteering & Socializing
07/23/2009
Presented by Career Services Unlimited. Using a Wheel of Life, you'll review your passions and preferences and learn how to shift into a post-work identity. Explore social networking and your reasons for wanting to volunteer. Learn the physical and mental benefits of volunteering and socializing. This is a Fit for Life 50+ program. It is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Arizona Department of Library, Archives and Public Records.
History, Hip Hop and American Popular Culture
07/09/2009
Presented by Dr. Matthew C. Whitaker, Associate Professor of United States History, African and American Studies, and Justice and Social Inquiry at Arizona State University, author of Race Work: The Rise of Civil Rights in the Urban West (2005) and CEO of the Whitaker Group, L.L.C., a human relations, organizational development, and diversity consulting firm. This talk will demonstrate that Hip Hop and Rap is arguably the post Civil Rights Era’s highest form of creative, extemporaneous, ever-evolving form of communication and expression. Indeed, Rap is a form of expression that finds its roots imbedded deep within African, Caribbean, and African American culture and oral tradition. This "signifying" often took on an innocuous, playful tone, but through Hip Hop culture and Rap music, it would become a way of communicating serious objections to racial oppression, police brutality, political isolation, elitism, educational inequalities, war and more. This lecture will argue, therefore, that Hip Hop and Rap "emerged as window into, and critique of, the criminalization, socio-economic isolation, and negative perceptions of black youth, and has evolved into a multi-racial, multi-generational, global critique of rigid structures, class-ism, and representative authority." This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Entrepreneurship & Owning Your Own Business
06/25/2009
Presented by Career Services Unlimited. Increasingly, self-employment is an attractive option to many at midlife. Learn if you have what it takes to be self-employed and whether your idea is feasible. Create a development plan and explore your customer base and how to reach it. Learn to network in Tucson and the options for getting started, including franchising or purchasing an existing business. This is a Fit for Life 50+ program. It is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Arizona Department of Library, Archives and Public records.
Tony Hillerman, Yataalii of the Navajo Way
06/11/2009
Presented by Richard E. Wentz, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, founder of the Religious Studies Department at Arizona State University. Tony Hillerman, the well-known mystery writer, devoted much of a lifetime weaving stories of Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn. Hillerman was a master at moving us inside the geographical and spiritual worlds of the Hopi and Diné (Navajo). Avid readers of Hillerman find themselves at home with the mesas, canyons, and reservation lands of Northern Arizona and New Mexico. Hillerman introduced us to the ceremonial ways of the Navajo, and in doing so, he himself performed a ceremonial role, inviting us into the mysteries of what may be called the Navajo Way. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Tony Hillerman, Yataalii of the Navajo Way
06/11/2009
Presented by Richard E. Wentz, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, founder of the Religious Studies Department at Arizona State University. Tony Hillerman, the well-known mystery writer, devoted much of a lifetime weaving stories of Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn. Hillerman was a master at moving us inside the geographical and spiritual worlds of the Hopi and Diné (Navajo). Avid readers of Hillerman find themselves at home with the mesas, canyons, and reservation lands of Northern Arizona and New Mexico. Hillerman introduced us to the ceremonial ways of the Navajo, and in doing so, he himself performed a ceremonial role, inviting us into the mysteries of what may be called the Navajo Way. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Employment at Midlife
05/28/2009
Changing careers at age 50+ can be challenging. Explore the current job market and assess your skills and interests. Learn about local career change resources and local training and networking opportunities. Develop a resume and cover letter and hone your interviewing skills.
This is a Fit for Life 50+ program. It is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Arizona Department of Library, Archives and Public Records.
Farewell, My Beijing: The long journey from China to Tucson
05/07/09
Presented by Chi Newman. Chi Newman and her identical twin sister Lu were born in Beijing, China into the wealthy family of a high government official. She and Lu were sent away at age thirteen to escape Communist forces. Their parents went into hiding and disappeared. She married an American who worked for the U.S. Department of State. They lived in thirteen countries on five continents and raised two wonderful children. She based her life on the "Yin Yang" philosophy. She knows in each life there are ups and downs, happiness and sorrow, health and sickness. Learn more about Chi Newman and her long journey from Beijing to Tucson. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Planning at Midlife
04/23/09
Presented by Career Services Unlimited. Create a Wheel of Life that demonstrates how eight areas of your life - employment, volunteerism, education, health, housing, transportation & safety, socialization and spirituality - change at midlife. This is a Fit for Life 50+ program. It is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Arizona Department of Library, Archives and Public Records..
Resist Much, Obey Little: Edward Abbey and the Monkey Wrench Gang
04/09/09
Presented by Karyn Riedell, Ph.D., English Professor, Arizona State University and Journalist. Through his novels, essays, and speeches, Edward Abbey was an environmental activist who wrote passionately and eloquently in his defense of the American West. When he died in 1989, the West lost one of its most powerful, brilliant, and controversial advocates. The Walt Whitman quote, "Resist much, obey little," was his motto. In his efforts to defend the land he loved, Abbey mocked the government bureaucracy and corporate forces that he believed were destroying the environment. He wrote twenty-one books, including his comic novel The Monkey Wrench Gang, which has inspired environmental activists ever since. One such group was Earth First!, which was formed in 1980 and advocates eco-sabotage, or "monkeywrenching." Abbey was never an official member of the group, but he did sometimes write for the organization. This presentation will examine the influence of Edward Abbey on other writers and the groups that have been inspired by his writing and environmental activism. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
A Third Country? Cultural and Economic Melding on the Arizona/Sonora Border
03/12/09
Presented by Ed Williams, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Political Science and Latin American Studies, University of Arizona.
"Borders form more than a dividing line. They define a meeting ground where two peoples interact, where the two influence one another, where a new synthesis emerges from the blending of the two. Cultural, economic, and political interaction pervades the U.S.-Mexican border region. Border dwellers borrow and combine English and Spanish in wondrous ways. Artistic styles like muralism progress from the South. Mexican Northern ballads and American Western music enrich the region. Baseball invades Mexico from the North. Sartorial styles distinguish Mexicano and Gringo borderlanders. Vaqueros and cowboys dress in ways never imagined in New York or Mexico City. The economies and polities of the two nations also interact in the border region – sometimes for the better of both, but sometimes not. Many have studied the special qualities of the border. Mexican social psychologist Rogelio Diaz Guerrero speaks of value convergence. American social historian Oscar Martinez highlights the complexities of border life. And, Mexican sociologist Jorge Bustamante defends the "Mexicaness" of Mexican borderlanders."
This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Beyond the Cotton Fields: Black Migrant Women Building Communities
02/12/09
Presented by Geta LeSeur. This presentation is based on the stories of five women from the Casa Grande Valley towns (Eloy, Randolph, Coolidge, Casa Grande, the Gila Reservation), who despite their busy and oppressive lives of work, family, poor housing, etc., managed to become politicized, self-educated activists. They would then go on to rebuild their lives and create lively communities even after "the cotton machine" took away their job opportunities. This presentation is a tribute to these resilient women.This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Arizona for Newcomers
01/08/09
Presented by Gregory McNamee. What is it that makes Arizona unique, that gives it a different flavor from neighboring New Mexico, California, Utah, and Sonora? In part the answer lies in Arizona's longstanding habit of absorbing influences from its neighbors. Influences such as architecture, music, cuisine, and the arts are continually incorporated into Arizona's already vibrant traditions, and served up in a unique blend of visual arts, literature, and folk life that is unlike any other. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Set in Stone but Not in Meaning: Southwestern Indian Rock Art
12/11/08
Presented by Allen Dart. Ancient Indian pictographs (rock paintings) and petroglyphs (symbols carved or pecked on rocks) are claimed by some to be forms of writing for which have communicate meaning. But are these claims supported by archaeology or Native Americans themselves? Dart discusses southwestern petroglyphs and pictographs, and illustrates how even the same rock art symbol may be interpreted differently from popular, scientific, and modern Native American perspectives. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Early History of Arizona: German Jesuits as Founders of Arizona
11/13/08
Presented by Dr. Albrecht Classen. Contrary to common perception, the early history of Arizona was deeply influenced by German Jesuits. Even Padre Eusebio Kino, though of Italian descent, received his entire schooling in Germany and lived there until his departure for the New World. After his death in 1711, numerous German Jesuits followed him, and until 1767 they manned most Jesuit missions in Southern Arizona. Learn how these Jesuits later wrote highly impressive travelogues and other accounts about their life in Sonora (Pimeria Alta), which shed fascinating light on the early history of our state. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Scare-Izona: A Travel Guide to Arizona's Spookiest Spots
10/30/08
Scare-Izona: A Travel Guide to Arizona's Spookiest Spots, presented by authors Katie Mullaly and J. Patric Ohlde, is an informative discussion about some of the most haunted locations in the state of Arizona, and our findings during our investigations. We will also spend time discussing the basics of paranormal investigation to give first-timers an idea of what to do, what not to do, and what to expect.
Family Secrets: The Uneasy Tradition of Diarists and Their Readers
10/23/08
Presented by Professor Judy Nolte Temple. The long tradition of diary-writing dates from the 17th century, when people like Samuel Pepys described their days-and their deviations into sins. Some argue that this private sort of writing can form a serial autobiography especially suited to women. This talk will trace the history of diaries and the various motives of their writers, famous, infamous, and unknown. How do censorship, self-censorship, and coding make diaries mysteries to be solved? Now that many diaries are published, how are family relations strained when private thoughts become public? How do today's on-line blogs tease the line between privacy and publicity? This presentation will cover such diarists as Anne Frank, Anais Nin, and Overland Trail men and women. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
2008 Ballot Propositions
10/16/08
Presented by The League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson. Hear information about the pros and cons of issues such as marriage laws, payday loans, majority vote, and more. Learn more about the 2008 Ballot Propositions and become an informed voter.
Voter Education
9/18/08
Presented by Shirley Sandelands, Immediate Past President of the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson. Are you prepared for the upcoming elections? Learn more about the process of voting, Arizona legal requirements, and how you can become an informed voter.
Growing up Chicana in Morenci
9/11/08
Presented by Elena Díaz Björkquist. Growing up Chicana in Morenci is a platica (informal talk) about Chicanas who lived in the mining town of Morenci, Arizona. Through a slide presentation of what the town looked like before its destruction in the late 1960s, readings from her books Suffer Smoke and Water from the Moon, and from oral history interviews she conducted for an AHC project, Díaz Björkquist portrays the lives of girls and women of Morenci in their own voices. It is a historically accurate picture of life for Mexican Americans in a segregated copper mining town from the 1920s to the late 1960s.

This inspirational presentation pays tribute to four generations of Chicanas who, in spite of discrimination, persevered and showed that si se puede (it can be done). Morenci Chicanas were the glue that kept the family unit together with their unique cultural spirit, demonstrating courage and strength. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Landscaping for Birds and Butterflies
9/4/08
Presented by Meg Quinn, Environmental Educator, Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation. Learn which plants will attract butterflies and birds and how to have a succession of blooming species.
Archaeology and Cultures of Arizona
8/28/08
Presented by archaeologist Allen Dart, Executive Director of Tucson's nonprofit Old Pueblo Archaeology Center. In this program, Dart summarizes and interprets the archaeology of Arizona from the earliest human occupations through the late prehistoric period. Please join him for a discussion of Arizona archaeology, connections between archaeology and history, and how the earliest peoples relate to the Native American, European, Mexican, African, and Asian peoples who have formed our state's more recent history.

This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council, funded by the Arizona Humanities Council Speakers Bureau. Through the Arizona Humanities Council's support for programs like this one, the people of Arizona benefit from federal funds allocated through the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Relive Tucson's film and TV history
8/21/08
Presented by Actor Don Collier & Arizona Daily Star film critic Phil Villarreal. Join us as we get a peek into Tucson's film and TV history. Hear stories about The High Chaparral, The Young Riders, and other significant shows in Tucson television history. You'll enjoy a live dialogue between legendary Tucson actor, Don Collier, and Arizona Daily Star film critic, Phil Villarreal.
Philately With A Sonoran Twist
8/14/08
Presented by Kelly McClear of the Postal History Foundation. Experience the magic and fun of postage stamps and postal history. Representatives from one of the most unique small museums in the West will take you on a powerpoint tour and send you home with a new appreciation of one of our smallest treasures - the postage stamp!
Sonoran Desert Wildlife
8/7/08
Presented by Sandy Reith, Environmental Education Program Coordinator, Pima County Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation. In this informal program, Reith discusses a variety of interesting animals that inhabit the Sonoran Desert and explore their adaptations by examining skulls and pelts.
Jazz and the American Identity
7/31/08
Presented by Janice Jarrett, a jazz musician, journalist, educator, and ethnomusicologist. The history of jazz goes back over 100 years and is intimately interwoven with a number of historical events and cultural traditions unique to America. A self-invented country, the United States broke from the European mold, and jazz, for decades the popular music of America, improvisatory and based on individual expression, closely reflects many of the attributes associated with this nation. Jazz is also highly regarded internationally as a valuable art form, and is, like America, closely associated with the concepts of freedom and democracy. Learn how a musical genre can be a window into profound national issues, controversies, and contradictions, and a means of deepening understanding of American history as a whole. Hear the music and stories of a great art that America invented. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Travel to China
7/24/08
Presented by Ingrid Trebisky and Sharon Yang-McNeil, Pima County Public Librarians. The eyes of the world will be focused on Beijing, China for the 28th Olympic Games this August 8-24. Get a sneak preview of Beijing through slides and stories from Ingrid Trebisky who ran the Beijing Marathon this past October and Sharon Yang-McNeil, who was raised in China and lived a year in Beijing.
Dance, Sensuality, and Culture
7/17/08
Presented by Dr. Adair Landborn, performer, educator, choreographer, and scholar specializing in Spanish flamenco and American modern dance.
Beneath every human culture, there exists an underpinning of unconscious cultural knowledge and sensual experience that emerges through its dances. The sensual living experiences, the values celebrated within a culture, and the communal and personal needs unique to each culture find expression through the reiteration of rhythmic movement patterns known as 'dance.' The qualities most intrinsic to a world dance form are often taken for granted by the people of that culture; some performers may never verbally articulate the values that motivate their movements. Dance scholars agree: dance is not a universal language. Rather, like language, dance is a human universal and many relationships exist between its variant forms. This presentation attempts to decode the human significance of world dance forms, exploring cultures through cross-cultural dance experience. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Change Your Life . . . From Flying Fish to Giant Chairs, Men on Horseback to Magic Carpets: Public Art in Tucson
7/10/08
Presented by Carol Lehrman, a Tucson Museum of Art Docent. Call them quirky, bizarre and unconventional or stately, monumental and grand. Tucson - the gallery that's open 24/7 - is home to a rich and diverse collection of public sculptural art.
Change Your Life . . . Explore Nature by Journaling
7/3/08
Nature journaling has become a popular way for people to explore the natural world while exploring their own creative abilities. You don't have to be a world-renowned artist to try your hand at nature journaling. Learn to use writing and sketching to record your reflections about the Sonoran Desert around you. Presented by Carol Tepper, Environmental Educator, Pima County Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation.
Change Your Life...Travel to Alaska
6/26/08
Come to the land where bald eagles breed like alleycats. See a dozen whales break the harbor's surface in a feeding frenzy. Eat lots of fish. Join us for a cruise up the placid waters of the Alaskan panhandle. John Howley, Pima County Public Librarian will share photos and stories of his travel from Vancouver to Anchorage via ship, floatplane and locomotive. View John's Photos on Flickr
Change Your Life...ALTCS Overview: Learn about the Arizona Long Term Care System
6/19/08
Learn about the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) which is Arizona's long term care program for those who are elderly or blind, physically disabled or have a developmental disability, presented by Irma Sierra, Human Service Specialist, Arizona Long Term Care System. ALTCS helps pay for nursing home care or special need care that allows you to remain in your own home. The program is administered under the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, or AHCCCS.
Change Your Life Through History...Corbett House: A Pioneer Home Then and Now
6/12/08
The Corbett House is a good example of how the railroad changed the architecture in Tucson. Tucson Museum of Art Docent Sandy Cord discusses the history of the family that built the house and its later transition into a museum of the Arts and Craft Movement.
Change Your Life...Explore Orienteering
6/5/08
Carol Tepper, Environmental Educator with Pima County Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation presents about how the natural world around us can contribute to our physical and mental health. But what would you do if you got lost out there? This short introduction to using a compass will increase your confidence about being out in the wild, and help you travel safely in unfamiliar terrain.
Change Your Life...Volunteer
(5/29/08)
Linda Krause, Senior Manager of Community Involvement from the Volunteer Center of Southern Arizona shares information on how to get involved in your community and provides an introduction to the Volunteer Center website to locate volunteer opportunities.
Change Your Life...Fit to a T
(5/22/08)
Do you know your T Score? It's not about golf. It's about your bone's ability to keep you moving. If you are between the ages of 40 and 60, find out what you can do to prevent or slow osteoporosis, the most prevalent bone condition among Americans, effecting nearly one in two women, and one in four men. Physical therapist Mark Roberts, PT, of MDR Spine and Sports Physical Therapy, strive to enhance health, function, mobility and quality of life through wellness education and exercise.
Saving the Last Great Places on Earth
(5/15/08)
Is global climate change real? If so, how might it affect you? Is there anything you can do about it? Come hear about The Nature Conservancy's projects. Sharon Olbert, longtime volunteer, public speaker and representative to Sustainable Tucson for The Nature Conservancy, will speak on how TNC is out to save the last great places on Earth.
Tohono O'odham Nation with Melvin Ortega
(5/8/08)
Filmmaker Melvin Ortega joined us for a film presentation of Tohono O'odham Nation and Native American events, profiles and interviews.
Tucson Symphony Orchestra Preview with Robert Reed
(5/1/08)
Robert Reed, Tucson Symphony Orchestra's Orchestra Manager/Artistic Administrator, discussed the Tucson Symphony Orchestra's first commercial recording in its nearly 80 year history. The recording will be made during the final Classic Series performances of the 2007/08 season. The performances and subsequent CD will contain three works by French Canadian composer André Mathieu and will be released by the Canadian-based label, Analekta in the fall of this year.

Clean Air Days

Green Home Building
(4/24/08)
Listen to Susan E. Buchan, Green Building Program Manager from the Pima County Development Services Department. This presentation covered green building concepts and technologies that can be introduced into new and existing homes. Learn about energy efficiency, renewable power, environmentally-responsible materials, and lifestyle changes that can reduce your carbon footprint, save you money and make your home a healthier place to live. Audio courtesy of Chuck Simms of KLPX.
Landscaping for Water Conservation
(4/17/08)
Kathryn Hahne, Program Coordinator of the SmartScape Program at the the Pima County Cooperative Extension presented Water Conservation. Discover tips for efficient proactive outdoor water conservation for residential and commercial use. Hear about techniques to save water, money and time. This workshop was taught by a horticulturalist through the SmartScape Program - which was picked as a "Best of Tucson" by the Tucson Weekly.
Bike Commuting
(4/10/08)
Donna Lewandowski, Safe Routes to School Coordinator from the Pima County Department of Transportation presented Bike Commuting. Listen to this fun presentation on avoiding bicycle crashes and other bike safety topics for bike commuting and pleasure rides. This presentation was a Clean Air Days and Food For Thought event.
Green Commuting
(4/3/08)
Ruth Reiman, Travel Demand Management Manager from the Pima Association of Governments (PAG) presented Green Commuting. Learn how to make your trip to work environmentally friendly and save money too. PAG's newly expanded RideShare program has something for everyone. Learn about the commute options available, including Sun Tran, that reduce pollution, congestion, and energy consumption. This presentation was a Clean Air Days and Food For Thought event.

Solar Power 101

Photo of solar panels

Resources discussed are available on Congresswoman Giffords' web site.

Topics for (02/25/10)
  • Solar Path
    As a local installer, Solar Path presents an overview of residential photovoltaic solar energy system choices and installation steps.
  • Solar Energy International
    SEI is a non-profit educational organization that trains contractors to use renewable energy resources and sustainable building technologies. They will spoke on the trainings they offer and national solar energy trends.
  • Town of Oro Valley
    Town of Oro Valley Representatives from Oro Valley speak on how the town is moving ahead with solar energy, energy efficiency and conservation.
  • A short film of Congresswoman Gifford's home solar energy system installation.

Listen now (1:42:35)

Topics for (01/06/10)
  • PV Recycling
    Jennifer Woolwich, CEO of PV Recycling, LLC, presents on working with PV module manufacturersto develop take-back processes, manage module registries, oversee collection, perform testing and recycle modules.
  • Solar Energy Products
    Presented by Robert Wanless of Solon Corporation. Solon Corporation was established in Tucson in January 2007 to focus on manufacturing solar modules and systems for the North American market. Representatives from Solon give an overview of their products and projects, both in the Tucson area and globally.
  • Solar Power for the Home - Getting Started
    Considering the installation of solar equipment to your home? Sara H Rajca, staff member from the office of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, covers some basic information.

Listen now (1:27:28)

Topics for (12/09/09)
  • The Basics of Solar Hot Water and PV
    Joseph DiMatteo, Managing Partner of Sunpower of Arizona presents on the basics of solar hot water heaters and pool heating systems. He also elaborates on the cost breakdown for solar energy vs. electric or gas energy.
  • Utility Update
    Eddie Williams, Key Account Marketing Director at Trico Electric Cooperative presents on their initiatives in solar energy and their rebate program for residential and commercial PV and hot water.
  • Solar Power for the Home: Getting Started
    Sara Hummel Rajca of the Office of Congresswoman Giffords discusses the basics of solar energy residential systems.

Listen now (1:26:44)

Solar Power at the University of Arizona Presented by AzRISE
(05/04/09)
  • Learn about AzRISE, the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy, based at the UA. It is involved with many solar research projects, including energy storage, large scale solar demonstration projects, solar energy teaching materials, upcoming events, and more.
  • Solar Decathlon & Solar Racing Team: The UA Solar Decathlon team and Solar Racing team presents information about their activities.
  • Dr. Alex Cronin: The UA physics professor presents information on his research on photovoltaics (PV) at the TEP solar testing yard, as well as his personal experiences with PV on his own home and how this has affected his life.

Listen now (1:21:57)

 
Topics for (04/16/09)
  • Solar at Davis-Monthan: A presentation on plans to install a large solar array at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Margaret Bowman, DMAFB).
  • Utility-scale Solar: A presentation on current technologies, trends and issues (Jake Stephens, US Solar).
  • Commercial-scale Solar and Your Utility: A presentation on TEP's commercial solar program and Arizona's Renewable Energy Standard (Marc Romito, Tucson Electric Power).

Listen now (1:46:49)

Topics for (03/11/09)
  • Renewable energy aspects of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009. (Tamarack Little, from the office of Representative Gabrielle Giffords)
  • Residential solar water heating, passive and active. (Katherine Kent, MS in Nuclear and Energy Engineering, President of the Solar Store)
  • Energy efficiency, small scale and large scale, and how large industrial energy users can conserve through design. (Mark Taylor, Westland Resources)

Listen now (1:49:42)

Topics for (02/17/09)
  • Residential Solar Electric: Includes installation procedures, photovoltaic technology and tax credits.
  • Solar Hot Water: Solar hot water for the home, including installation procedures, technology and rebates.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: How to collect rainwater for use on landscaping, gardens and other outdoor uses.
  • Federal Renewable Energy Update: An update on pending legislation by a member of Congresswoman Giffords' staff.

Listen now (1:52:58)

Local Solar Energy Programs
(12/16/08)
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, speak about the new solar tax credits and Arizona's potential as a national leader in solar energy. Other presentations include:
  • Trico's SunWatts Program - Learn how you can work with your local utility to save money on photovoltaic and solar hot water systems.
  • Marana's Green Building Program - Town of Marana Fellow Rebecca Kunsberg and Building Official John Huntley and will present plans for a new Green Building Program, and take comments and suggestions from the audience.
  • Solar Power for the Home: Getting Started - This is a presentation on the basics of financing and installing residential solar energy systems by a member of Congresswoman Giffords' staff.

Listen now (1:42:32)

The Potential of the Solar Industry
(5/14/08)
Solar-energy advocates Valerie Rauluk and Tom Alston speak about economic and technological opportunities and obstacles, as well as policy issues and hurdles.
Utilities and the Arizona Corporation Commission
(4/16/08)
This presentation was about statewide regulations currently being developed by the Arizona Corporation Commission that will dramatically affect the both the solar industry and utility companies in Arizona, featuring:
University of Arizona's Solar Research Program, AZRISE
(3/13/08)
A presentation about the new Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy, solar energy research at the University of Arizona, and the U of A Solar Decathlon Team, featuring Dr. Joe Simmons, Director of the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy, and Dale Clifford, U of A Solar Decathlon Team.
Solar America Initiative
(2/13/08)
A presentation about the City of Tucson's new grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop our solar energy infrastructure. An overview of the grant, a look at existing City of Tucson solar systems and plans for the implementation of the grant was discussed Doug Crockett, Energy Manager for the City of Tucson.
The Economics of Solar
(1/23/08)
A presentation about residential and commercial solar energy markets, tax credits, and important economic issues affecting Arizona
Solar Energy Technology
(12/17/07)
 
 

Readers Theatre Project

Book cover of Letters from Rifka
Local Students Perform Letters from Rifka
Students from Montessori Khalsa School performed Letters from Rifka as part of the library's Becoming American Readers Theatre Project. Over 90 students around Tucson participated in the project, working with drama coach Paul Fisher and visual artist Michelle Williams for eight weeks to create the sets and practice for the performances. (May 2007)

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Tucson Memories

In celebration of Tucson's birthday in August 2007, we invited members of the community to share their memories of Tucson.

  • Pima County Supervisor Richard Elías shares his memory of the Pioneer Hotel Fire. Listen to his memory
  • Pima County Supervisor Richard Elías recently shared this memory of meeting César Chávez. Listen to his memory
  • Bonnie Henry, columnist for the Arizona Daily Star, shared memories of growing up in Tucson at our Tucson, Tell Us Your Story event on July 26, 2007. Listen to her memories
  • Tucson resident Robert Sleight shared his family's first impressions with us. Listen to his memory
  • City Council Member Nina Trasoff shared her first impressions of Tucson with us. Listen here
  • Council Member Nina Trasoff shares her memories of being a reporter here in Tucson. Listen to her story
  • Deputy County Administrator John Bernal shares his memories of being a paperboy downtown. Listen here
  • Council Member Trasoff shares her memories of working at the Arizona Health Sciences Center when the first artificial heart transplant was done. Listen to her memory

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