On January 8, 2011, my life—and Tucson’s—changed forever. At the time, I was publishing several local newspapers, including the Marana Weekly News. My reporter Chuck Barth was supposed to be covering a “Congress on Your Corner” event with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords at the Safeway at Ina and Oracle. Then came the call. There had been a shooting at the event. Chuck wasn’t answering his phone.
I grabbed my keys, loaded my bike onto the car, and drove toward the scene. Arriving 15 minutes after the tragedy, I found the area locked down tight. My press credentials and bike allowed me to get closer than most, right to the intersection where six people had lost their lives, and many others, including Congresswoman Giffords, had been gravely injured.
That day, Tucson became a national symbol of heartbreak—but also resilience. When President Obama visited in the aftermath, the words Together We Thrive became a rallying cry. Those words still guide me. Every year on January 8, I lead a ride to that Safeway to honor those we lost and to reflect on how I can help Southern Arizona thrive.
This year, I considered skipping the ride. The family of Christina-Taylor Green, the youngest victim, has asked to step back from public remembrances, which I deeply respect. Grief is personal, and their willingness to share their journey for so many years is something I’ll always admire. Despite my hesitation, I decided to continue the tradition on a chilly, windy morning. Though it wasn’t widely publicized, Kevin, Jorge, and I showed up and rode.
A Ride Filled with Reflection
The ride wasn’t just about remembering—it was about finding ways to move forward. We talked about solutions to community challenges, like homelessness along The Loop and how groups like El Tour de Tucson could partner with Tucson Clean and Beautiful to make a difference. We discussed the Hundred Acre Wood Bike Park, a promising project in an underserved area that’s now grappling with a large unhoused population. These issues require action, collaboration, and creativity, not just complaints.
We also dove into Arizona’s unique tax credit system, which allows residents to direct their taxes to charitable causes they’re passionate about. This is one of my favorite ways to empower individuals to support local organizations. From helping foster children to providing scholarships, it’s a tool for real change. I’m inspired to find even more ways to amplify its impact this year.
Introducing Ambaggadors
At the Safeway stop, I ran into Max Morris, founder of The Endurance Project. Our conversation led to the creation of a new initiative: Ambaggadors—cyclists who will distribute 1,000 backpacks filled with essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and more to Tucson’s unhoused population during the summer. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make a difference. To fund this effort, we’re forming a team for the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo race and launching a fundraiser. It’s exciting to see such a meaningful project come to life, and I’ll be writing more about this soon.
Accountability Through Action
As we pedaled back to the University Medical Center, where Gabrielle Giffords’ life was saved, we reflected on how to create a more connected and thriving Tucson. Craig, a fellow rider, shared his vision for nonprofits pooling resources to tackle shared challenges. Imagine multiple charities sharing equipment like barricades or even vehicles to maximize impact.
Accountability is central to my 2025 goals. Whether it’s advocating for safer bike lanes, raising awareness about community programs, or creating a Kindness Film Festival to support Ben’s Bells, I want to be part of the solution. Complaining without action is easy, but committing to change requires showing up, taking risks, and leading by example.
Why the Ride Matters
The Ride to Renew and Remember isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward. It’s about honoring those we lost by working toward a better, kinder, more connected Tucson. The conversations we had this year reminded me that change begins with small, intentional steps, whether it’s repainting lines on a road to make biking safer, handing out backpacks to those in need, or simply thanking local leaders for what’s working while constructively addressing what’s not.
As I move forward with my goals for 2025, I’m inspired by the ride’s message: we thrive when we work together. Let’s commit to being part of the solution this year—on and off the bike.