Gnome for the Holidays

Eileen J. Snearly

On Dec. 13 “Jerome the Gnome” welcomed the MountainView Preserve Lady Niners (MPLN) to a wonderful “Holly Jolly” celebration of the Christmas holiday. There were the popular “gnomes” this year everywhere.

Even though many of the ladies couldn’t be “gnome” this Christmas, and because of the weather, there was no golf, it was still a warm sisterhood gathering with golf bingo and word games. The delicious luncheon was served at the MountainView Bar & Grill, and accordion music was played by President Caryl Dowell.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern Arizona was chosen as the designated charity this Christmas. Originally started by Dr. A. Evans, the first house was made possible in 1974 because of a Philadelphia Eagles pro football player who saw the need for a house.

The MPLN organization opened their hearts and donated $1,800 to the Ronald McDonald House this Christmas.

Two of our SaddleBrooke neighbors, Bill and Pat Ford, have been volunteering at “The Room” at Banner as part of the Ronald McDonald House mission for 10 years.

This nonprofit facility is not funded by the McDonald’s restaurants, as some might think, and solely operates with fundraising campaigns by businesses and individual donations.

President and CEO Kate Jensen and Director of Philanthropy Nancy Kirk were very surprised and thankful for the generous donation.

Some of the committee members toured the Ronald McDonald House and were very impressed with the facilities, including a putting green donated by the PGA and all that is available to the families. “Planting Seeds of Kindness” is truly what they do.

Consider a visit and tour of the facility at 2155 E. Allen Road, Tucson, and you’ll be thoroughly impressed as well.