Past events in Arizona:

Spring Picnic in Tucson

 Date: April 27, 2003
 Place: Udall Park, Tucson, Arizona

One week after Easter it was well into the 90's under the bright sun and azure skies of Tucson. The Lithuanian flag was flying high, ramadas 8 and 9 were washed, the picnic tables were covered, cheerful Lithuanian music was coming out of the loudspeakers, refreshments were on ice, coffee was made, kugelis with sausages and sauerkraut were steaming, and desserts were laid out - 50 southern Arizona Lithuanians and their friends were ready to picnic. The ramadas were surrounded by a large area of green lawn - not too common in the desert - with enough room to play games. The mood was friendly and conducive to conversation with new acquaintances and old friends. It was great to see a number of new faces among the guests: despite the efforts of Lithuanian-American Community of Arizona to reach Arizonans of Lithuanian descent, there are many about whom we have no information. In this regard we are especially grateful to Dan Babich, the host of the "Radio International" hour (11AM - noon, Saturdays and Sundays) on KSAZ AM580 radio, who informed his listeners about this picnic. A number of people showed up as a direct result of Dan's radio announcements.

The picnic was hosted by the Lithuanian-American Community of Arizona and was organized by Edith Balceris and Aldona Vaitkus. Hot food was prepared and served by Edith Balceris, Aldona Katilius, Maryte Tallat-Kelpsa and Rasa Vaiciulis. Desserts were supplied by Aldona Vaitkus. The picnic area was prepared by Edith Balceris, Rimtis Tallat-Kelpsa, Aldona and Rimas Vaitkus. The refreshments and music were supplied by Rimas Vaitkus. The bar was tended by Rimtis Tallat-Kelpsa. Aldona Vaitkus was the cashier and sold the lottery tickets. Kestutis Eidukonis and Edith Balceris conducted the lottery. The Lithuanian-American Community of Arizona thanks all the volunteers for their help and all the guests for coming and bringing lottery prizes.