tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59959563920119913752024-03-14T12:44:37.813-06:00John Guiliano's Blog From the TamarindoJohn Guiliano's Blog From the Tamarindo - Guarjila, El SalvadorTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-26240235242058637112012-04-03T10:02:00.004-06:002012-04-03T10:09:34.740-06:00Welcome New Board Member Margaret Miller!Margaret Miller Bio<br /><br />I was born in New York and migrated across the country growing up, as my father took a position at Northwestern University then finally at Stanford University when I was in high school. My love for other cultures began when I was a teenager - which is why I majored in Spanish and also earned a SpanishTeaching Credential at the University of the Pacific. I then went on to get a M.A. in Education and a Bilingual/ Cross Cultural Specialist Credential. I began teaching high school in San Francisco at a Catholic girls’ high school and have continued in Catholic education for the last 34 years. I have been passionate about photography and travel and learning about people around the world since as long as I can remember.<br /><br />Working with teens in Catholic education is a gift. I have been at Saint Francis High School since 1982. I arrived as a full-time Spanish teacher. I’ve been the Dean of Students for about 16 years now and still teach one Spanish class. If you’re in trouble at school, you arrive late to class, you can’t figure out where to park, you want to discuss what you did to “earn” Saturday detention, or you’d like to hear about Emergency Planning, I’m the person you go to! I also create programs for parent education especially those focusing on parenting in this crazy digital world. To keep my sanity, I make jewelry, have become obsessed with taking and teaching Zumba classes, and spend my time traveling to new destinations around the world in the summer. <br /><br />My passion for “all things Guarjila, Tamarindo, and El Salvador” began eight years ago when Sal Chávez, Director of Campus Ministry at Saint Francis, and I took our first Campus Ministry Immersion Program trip to El Salvador. Before that trip I had lead 12 student tours with an educational company to different countries in Europe, Costa Rica, and Cuba. The program to El Salvador was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I still look forward to each trip – with the same anticipation I had when I first set foot in Guarjila. I look forward to spending time with the Tamarindo community and John and feel blessed to have the opportunity to travel there each year. Guarjila is truly my second home. I am always anxious to catch up with the families in the Tamarindo, talk about the politics of Guarjila and El Salvador with John and Maria, find out the news from the women who are leaders in theTamarindo, and take advantage of a week of Bety’s good cooking (those pupusas are unreal!). Seeing El Salvador through the eyes of a new group of students each year is invigorating. Our students are transformed by their experience, and I look forward to finding new ways to have all of our students give back to the community in El Salvador. <br /> <br />I am also always in awe watching Tamarindos and John in a good game of hockey in the “Garden.” John has transformed so many young people through sports and all of the other programs that build community.<br /> <br />Each summer we become sports fans in the warm summer night. We surround the walls of the court, poke our fingers through the fencing, cheer on the players, and listening to the loud beat of Credence Cleerwater Revival. <br /><br />I was honored to be selected to serve on the Tamarindo Foundation Board. I will do anything possible to support the work of the Foundation to benefit John’s work and look forward to contributing to future programs in a variety of ways. <br /><br />I have a husband, Chris Bradford, who teaches English and Photography at Saint Francis School and two children. My daughter Jenny is 26 and works for Google in New York City. My son Josh is 22 and is will graduate from the University of South Carolina in May. He and I traveled to Guarjila in December of 2011. He has become passionate about the Tamarindos and will work with us on the planning of John’s August 2012 bike tour across the United States.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-28898470112661533902012-04-03T09:46:00.002-06:002012-04-03T09:51:07.198-06:00Welcome New Board Member Joe Albers!Joe Albers Bio<br /><br />I was born and raised in San Jose, California. I was privileged to attend Catholic schools where I was exposed to social justice values which I did not start taking seriously until my junior year of high school. That was when I attended an immersion trip to Tijuana, Mexico to build houses over spring break. At that point, my values changed drastically and I became dedicated to addressing social justice issues especially related to Latin America and poverty.<br /><br />I chose to attend Santa Clara University because of its mission for social justice. In my sophomore year, I got involved in a student-run community service and activism group called Santa Clara Community Action Program. I served as the leader of a program serving breakfast on Saturday mornings. I had a goal to start the same immersion trip I went on in high school. During that year, I led 40 students down to Tijuana to build houses. Both of those experiences increased my commitment to social justice.<br /><br />Also as a sophomore at SCU, I had learned about the history of El Salvador in my Central American History course and developed a desire to travel there. My friend, Kristin Simms (now Byrnes), introduced me to the Tamarindo youth group where she participated in the summer internship “program”. John Giuliano came for a visit and I became enamored with the mission of the group. He explained that the experience of going for the summer was living in solidarity in the place of doing service and I was hooked. <br /><br />That summer of 2000, I went to Guarjila for the first time. I still remember the trip in from the airport and arriving into a adobe walled, dirt floor meeting place/ boxing ring. I walked in, ducking my head through the door, with music blaring to see teenagers lifting weights and admiring their muscles. I immediately questioned why I traveled so far for this crazy boxing ring. After a few days of being with the group and living with my host family, however, I fell in love with the community and became a Tamarindo. To me that meant always being committed to the Guarjilan community. At 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 145 pounds, I earned the nickname “Petaca” which translates to pot belly. Even though I was skinny as a rail, I still had a little tiny belly. The name has stuck ever since.<br /><br />Upon returning to Santa Clara, Kristin and I started an immersion trip to Guarjila in the Spring. I was so excited to share that experience with 10 of my classmates at SCU. I then committed to return to live there for a year after I graduated in 2002. I worked for the Tamarindo full time and at the local high school teaching English part time. My commitment to the group only grew deeper and I found my favorite activity in the simplicity of visiting houses. <br /><br />Since I left in 2003, I have returned probably about 10 times for visits where I go from house to house visiting my close friends and spending time at the Tamarindo. I always enjoy the hospitality and the relationships that still stay the same in the face of great distance and drastically different day to day lifestyles. <br /><br />SInce settling in San Jose, I have been teaching full time high school in low-income Latino communities. My commitments remain the same and I deeply enjoy pushing students to do their best. I currently work at Overfelt High School and coordinate a program called AVID, which prepares first generation students for college. I have earned my Master’s degree in Education Administration and teaching credential from Santa Clara University. <br /><br />I married my wonderful wife, Karen Dazols, in 2006 here in San Jose, but we had a second wedding celebration in Guarjila where the discoteca was rolled in for a mega party in the Tamarindo. John proved to perhaps have a second career option in wedding planning as it was a fantastic night. We have welcomed into our family our sweet and wild little girl Alicia, who just turned one. <br /><br />This past year, I have rekindled my connection to the group by starting the Jon Cortina Solidarity Scholarship Program through the Tamarindo Foundation. I had a dream of starting a formal scholarship program to help Guarjilan youth continue their education at universities since I had worked at the local high school in Guarjila. I watched almost all of the talented graduates who could work to improve their community emigrate to the USA. <br /><br />With the work of Luis Lopez, John, and the support of the foundation, we have managed to fund 4 scholarships for students to study at universities this fall. Applicants needed to not only demonstrate academic success, but more importantly, a commitment to the Guarjilan community. All four students are doing well with their studies and have begun their community service projects. In establishing this program I began working closely with the foundation and was invited to be a board member this year. I was thrilled at the opportunity to be a part of the foundation, continuing my commitment as a Tamarindo.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-3868680050627634322012-03-28T05:42:00.005-06:002012-03-28T05:54:55.148-06:00University Students' Thank You Letters, December 2011<strong>From Wilber Lopez- Attending National University in San Salvador- Journalism<br />Guarjila, Chalatenango, El Salvador</strong><br /><br />I wish you warm greetings and hope that your days are filled with success and good health. After the short greeting, I want to go ahead and thank you very much for how happy you have made me by giving the opportunity to be one of the beneficiaries of the scholarships that you are offering the young people of Guarjila. Know that my family and I appreciate your support greatly. It is a huge opportunity for me to be able to study for the career I have chosen for myself and enjoy very much, which is to be a journalist. One of my biggest goals in life is to be a journalist in order to help my family and my community. <br /><br />I hope to be very successful in my studies with all of the effort and great care that I can give and more than anything else place myself in the hands of God, knowing that he will never abandon me. I, again, want to tell you how much I appreciate your donation to my university scholarship, which has given me great happiness and motivated me to make all the sacrifice possible to do the best in my studies. I wish you good luck, and again thank you so much.<br /><br />May God bless you,<br />Wilber Alexander López Sosa <br /><br /><br /><strong>From Sonia Palma- attending Monsenor Romero University- Chalatenango- Science Education</strong><br /><br />Dear wonderful scholarship donors:<br />Warm greetings from Sonia Maritza and all of my family. I wish you happiness and joy with your friends and family this season. I want you to know that for me it is an honor to be able to write you and tell you how incredibly grateful I am that you have donated to my scholarship that will allow me to study at the university and achieve my dreams and the dreams of my family.<br /><br />I very much enjoy the major I have chosen: Science Education. I think that education contributes greatly to the productive development of society and at the same time I like to share my education and my gifts with the community. I will be enrolling this month in December to take my orientation course so that I can start by degree in January in the University of Monsenor Oscar Romero. I will dedicate myself fully to my studies to be very successful. <br /><br />I want to thank you again so much for your support before I say farewell. <br />May God bless you and with all my heart I wish you a Merry Christmas,<br />Sonia Maritza Navarro Palma<br /><br /><br /><strong>From Yesica Amaya- attending Andres Bellow University in Chalatenango- Accounting</strong><br /><br />Warm greetings! <br /><br />I hope this letter finds you in good health and surrounded by your family. <br /><br />I am writing to thank all of you who have donated to my scholarship. Thanks to you I will be able to start one of my dreams, which I hope to complete successfully. The news that I received the scholarship filled me with so much joy. I did not know what to say, the happiness had invaded me completely. Moreover, I was sleeping when I got the call and my dreams left quickly. I did not think I was going to get this great news so quickly and it has been the best Christmas gift that I could ever receive. My parents also shared in my joy and are so happy to know that I will start my studies this year. <br /><br />I know that I have taken on a big responsibility and commitment to each one of you. Thank you for believing in me and granting me the opportunity to improve my life, I will always be grateful with all of my heart. I wish you, the people who have believed that the youth can improve their lives, many blessings especially in this time of year. May God fill your life with blessings and a happy new year. It has been a pleasure writing you. Well, take care of yourselves and may God bless you.<br /><br />With much love,<br />Yesica Dinora Amaya<br /><br /><br /><strong>From Rosa Lopez- attending Chalatenango Institute of Technology- Marketing</strong><br /><br />December 19, 2011<br />Guarjila, Chalatenango El Salvador <br /><br />Dear new friends from the United States,<br /><br />I wish you warm greetings for my dear International friends from Rosa Estela Vasquez Lopez and family. I hope that this letter finds you well surrounded by your loved ones. I feel very happy to have friends that I can write to and greet you with so much pride.<br /><br />I want to tell you how I infinitely appreciate that you have donated towards my scholarship. With this support I will be able to continue my post-secondary education and realize my dreams, which is to study in order to work to provide a good living. Moreover, I want to help my family and contribute to the betterment of my community with the knowledge that I gain from my studies.<br /><br />I also thank God for allowing people who show as much solidarity as you helping us improve our lives professionally. In our community, there are not many opportunities like this that you have offered us. I want to let you know that I will begin studying in January of next year and my family is very happy that I will be able to do so. Also my family is very appreciative of you all. I know that it took a lot of effort and work for you to give me this help and for that reason I promise to be a very good student and put all of my effort into having good grades to not disappoint you all.<br /><br />With these few simple words, I will say farewell from you my esteemed friends, wishing you a merry Christmas and a new year filled with many blessings. May God take care of you with great health and peace in your households.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Rosa Estela Vasquez LopezTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-60041623454198578622012-03-21T14:18:00.003-06:002012-03-30T10:23:38.936-06:00Delegation VisitsA typical week with a U.S. student group<br />- by Louis Lopez<br /><br />The first day of a group's arrival in Guarjila is the welcoming and group presentations. The American students pair off and then meet and move into the Tamarindo family's house that they will stay at for the week. That night there is a bonfire and everyone circles around for introductions. We spend a couple of hours telling stories and getting to know each other over dinner and games.<br /><br />The second day we give them a tour of Guarjila, visiting the places and projects that are important to our way of life, so that the students get a better idea of where they are and can familiarize themselves with the area. This day is really about sharing our community with them. The afternoon is usually spent at either the elementary or high school and visiting older family members of the Tamarindos who love to share their stories. <br /><br />The rest of the days vary from group to group but usually include - a night of camping at the Sumpul River (where Salvadorans were massacred trying to escape into Honduras); traveling to the martyr sites throughout the country (including those of the U.S. churchwomen, Romero, Rutilio Grande, the Jesuits, the museum in Morazan, the massacre of Mozote, among others); trips to historical and significant places during the war; competitive game nights; soccer, softball, and kickball games; retreat and reflection nights; and then to wrap up the week, everyone participates by planning a community mass. <br /><br />The time we spend with each group is so memorable that we end up telling stories of delegation visits long after groups have left. I believe that both sides benefit from the immersion experience and it is important to continue these relationships long into the future.<br /><br />-LouisTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-7680288076843012052011-12-08T12:25:00.006-06:002011-12-08T12:52:27.271-06:00Christmas 2011 Appeal Letter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimN1QRfcGTypK_PMsJ-1xr51u69zG5GbNhHoH3nWrYyuJV0DFmou_1uS9eQqbhDM7vzvDw8L5nxHZyzQBQq1EhZt0shlQY8Xv-nOjj4gEL7OHjIqEcShSLyGXorRd-2_5TON6qEVXqiTeF/s1600/holly.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimN1QRfcGTypK_PMsJ-1xr51u69zG5GbNhHoH3nWrYyuJV0DFmou_1uS9eQqbhDM7vzvDw8L5nxHZyzQBQq1EhZt0shlQY8Xv-nOjj4gEL7OHjIqEcShSLyGXorRd-2_5TON6qEVXqiTeF/s200/holly.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683831637530470770" /></a><br />TAMARINDO FOUNDATION, INC.<br /><br /><br />Friends:<br /><br />It will soon be Christmas. As I write to you, cool, dry winds are blowing in from the North, making Guarjila a dust bowl. My Ebenezer Scrooge is working hard on me - Christmas parties... Christmas stockings... Christmas events... Christmas kids... and a thousand Christmas questions. There are Christmas letters to be read and Christmas appeals to be written. I think to myself, not this again! Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. “BAH HUMBUG!”<br /><br />Then, as I’m ready to toss Christmas out the window (even before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade begins), my daughter, Rose, reminds me, “Dad, it’s the Tamarindo... it's the Tamarindo that gives... the Tamarindo gives Christmas.”<br /><br />So I stop, breathe, and realize - the Tamarindo is a place that gives, not only on Christmas, but every day of the year.<br /><br />I begin by reflecting on my own life and who I would be without the Tamarindo. This place and these people have been my education, inspiration, and direction since we began in 1992. They continue to feed and challenge my life. "It’s the Tamarindo that gives." <br /><br />There are hundreds of students from around the world that can say the same thing - that the Tamarindo has changed their lives in profound ways. For St.Mary’s, St. Francis, Archbishop Mitty, Bishop Chatard, St. Pius X, DePauw, Xavier, Stanford, Lewis and Clarke, Creighton, UCLA, Harvard, Boston College, Notre Dame, Yale, Arizona State, Cal, Santa Clara (forgive me If I didn’t mention all the schools), the Tamarindo has been your living classroom. It was in that broken down, termite infested and sometimes leaky building in Guarjila where you began to think differently. It was there that you began to consider your own vocations and question your world. “It’s the Tamarindo that gives.”<br /><br />How many of you were inspired here to change your course of study? How many vocational dreams were launched in your time living with the Tamarindos? Many of you took elements and principles learned in the Tamarindo back to your communities, bringing with you new energy and understanding to face the problems of poverty, ignorance and injustice. "It’s the Tamarindo that gives."<br /><br />For parents, how many of you have written to thank the Tamarindo for the ways in which your children grew and changed while here? We have received so many notes thanking us for the gifts that your children took from here to become kinder, gentler, and more generous people. "It’s the Tamarindo that gives." <br /><br />How many of you encountered a living faith in Guarjila for the first time? Was it here you first came to sit before the cross? Was it here in “community” during the breaking of the bread (or pupusa) where you began to consider God, church and hope for a better world? Was it amongst the campesinos (Gio, Jenni, Luis, Rosibel, Noemi) that you came to know the stories of the Jesuit martyrs, Archbishop Romero, and men and women of faith? "It's the Tamarindo that gives."<br /><br />And I write for all the Tamarindos on this end - those that went to school or found a job. For those that learned to ride a bike... learned to read... learned to pray... learned to hit a slap shot... learned to think critically... learned to dream... learned to say thank you... learned how beautiful they truly are. "It's the Tamarindo that gives." <br /><br />For all those that came on hard times and have needed a hand, the Tamarindo has been there. For the countless requests for medical consults, building materials, food, shoes, clothes or any needs – the Tamarindo door has always been open. "It's the Tamarindo that gives." <br /><br />For all of us that have given of our time, money and inspiration to see that the Tamarindo continues to thrive - we know we have been given something back, something very special. Call it grace, joy or just a richer, fuller life, we are so grateful. “It’s the Tamarindo that gives.”<br /><br />So now as we approach Christmas, I would like to invite you to take some time from your busy lives and reflect on the gift that the Tamarindo has been to you. I then hope you will consider giving a gift to the Tamarindo Foundation that will allow us to keep giving. Without you, nothing is possible.<br /><br />Please make us part of your holiday.<br /><br />On behalf of all of us here at the Tamarindo, thank you with all our hearts.<br /><br />Wishing you a blessed Christmas and holiday season,<br /><br />John<br /><br />P.O. Box 90404 Indianapolis, IN 46290-0404 <br />www.tamarindofoundation.orgTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-35449740656393992542011-10-09T19:12:00.002-06:002011-10-09T19:30:05.471-06:00A Day in the Life of a TamarindoA day in the life of a tamarindo – <br /><br />Sundays consist of a community service project out in Guarjila and then mass is attended by the group. The evenings are reserved for a group meal, where the servers and those served switch off. Discussions and Reflections happen this evening, too. <br /><br />Monday evening is IN HOUSE Service - work that needs done in the Tamarindo “Shop” (center) and the Tamarindo Garden, where necessary repairs and maintenance to make things last as long as possible are made.<br /><br />Tuesday is spirituality night. The Gospel passage for the upcoming week is read and discussed or a talk about a particular Feast Day or saint is given.<br /><br />Wednesday is a flex night to be used as needed.<br /><br />Thursday is News Analysis (current events) and Sport night. The News Analysis program is where the smaller groups meet and choose an article from one of 3 newspapers and each group is required to lead a discussion with the entire Tamarindo Community. They all rotate through so each has its turn in presenting. <br /><br />Friday Night is the long running Mandatory Organizational Meeting: This is where weekly goals are set and previous week’s goals are discussed. Often times there are critical topics that are relevant to the town that are discussed. <br /><br />Saturday is a fun recreation night and might consist of games in the Tamarindo Garden or a group movie. <br /><br />In addition, every day after school the “Shop” is flooded with kids looking to play and many others who need tutoring and help with homework.<br /><br />Other times at the center include cultural event planning (each Easter the Tamarindo produces the Stations of the Cross for the Town and in it they highlight the social problems the town has faced in the past 12 months), workshops and seminars about problems the town is facing, individual leadership programs and health programs for women and the elderly. They also hold special events like karate classes, art classes and even gymnastics.<br /><br />The Tamarindo Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A member of the council (made up of 6 tamarindo leaders) spends the night there every night so that it is available to people in the community who need to seek shelter in a safe and secure place. It requires the daily participation of the youth that keep it running every day. This place is living, breathing, teaching and always adapting to the ever-changing needs of Guarjila and the Tamarindos.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-33134713606504333712011-10-06T07:51:00.002-06:002011-10-06T08:01:25.012-06:00Mike Qualters' Ironman Campaign ResultsIRONMAN CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS!<br />By Tamarindo Foundation President, Mike Qualters<br /><br />Even though the recent Ironman race has come and gone, your generosity will benefit the Tamarindo for months to come.<br /><br />As many of you know, I participated in my first Ironman Distance Triathlon on August 28, 2011, in Louisville, Kentucky. While I've been doing Tri's for many years, this particular distance was a new challenge. The Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run. I was happy to dedicate the training, preparation and the race to the Tamarindos, a group who know a thing or two about hard work, difficult circumstances and perseverance. <br /><br />A week before the race, an on-line campaign was created and advertised via e-mail and on the Tamarindo Foundation FaceBook Page - the race was on. In a little over 3 weeks, $6600 was raised. <br /><br />Race day was amazing and I can't thank you enough for your support. The response to the fundraiser was tremendous and the number of you who followed my progress on-line throughout the race, and those who e-mailed, texted and called with well wishes, were all really appreciated. <br /><br />A special thanks to a friend, Rich Doppelfeld, who followed me around the course and supplied updates and pictures to John Guiliano in El Salvador, who, while following along on-line, also created updates for everyone on FaceBook. I also wanted to give a big thank you to another friend, Steve Klipsch, who so generously donated a <strong><em>matching gift</em></strong> for the money raised; and finally, to the Tamarindos, who participated in their own Endurance Day in Guarjila and were with me in solidarity for all 140.6 miles. Thank you for inspiring me everyday.<br /><br />Thank you again for all for your support in this event!Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-8508292703955548272011-09-29T11:00:00.001-06:002011-09-29T11:02:22.044-06:00Fall Update from JohnWe are about to take our hockey team to Guatemala for the Guatemalan National Championship Series. We are taking a very young team who have dedicated themselves to a rigorous month of preparation. They are disciplined and in excellent condition so they should do very well. For most of the guys it’s their first time out of the country; everyone is excited. We are trying to keep the gang focused and relaxed. The guys are so funny, everyone seems cool about playing but nervous about what snacks we’re buying for the trip. <br /><br />I think the Guatemalan’s are intimidated......El Salvador is coming to town. <br /><br />I want to thank Luis Lopez who has done a truly amazing job as team captain helping me prepare the team and get this trip underway. INDES (National Institute of Sport) has also been great helping with travel documents and transportation.<br /><br />In addition to our games, I will be doing a three day clinic there with coaches focusing on player development and team strategy. We will also begin to discuss the creation of a Central American Hockey Union which will help each national federation develop the sport, create a partnership between all of us working in the game in the region, and hopefully create a Central American League where in the future the Central American champion could play in the Pan Am Games and Word Championships (huge goals).<br /><br />After Guatemala, the crew (Luis, Gio, Cobra, Rosibel and Noemi) will take over in the Tamarindo as I begin a much needed mini-sabbatical. If you are looking you will be able to find me at johnguiliano@gmail.com. If not there maybe you will find me meditating inside of the Izalco Volcano, or walking the Golden Gate Bridge, or sitting at the oyster bar at the Union Oyster House, or discerning life before a Van Gogh at the Met but most likely I’ll be sitting down the third baseline at Yankee Stadium.<br /><br />I am so grateful to all who have made our trip to Guatemala possible, without you nothing happens.<br /><br />I’m also so thankful for your support of me (I know I am challenging sometimes). I thank you for all your prayers, love and support and look forward to hearing or seeing you soon (somewhere along the line). With great affection,<br /><br />JGTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-28519124033818792562011-09-19T11:24:00.004-06:002011-09-19T11:53:00.543-06:00Tamarindo Band History - by Tom FunkWhen asked about their rise to popularity, have you ever heard a popular artist, actor or public personality say something like: “I didn’t plan for this to happen, it just did!”? Have you ever wondered if it’s really true? Well, to the extent that the Tamarindo Band is popular, in our case, it is true. We didn’t plan for this to happen, it just did!<br /><br />To trace our story, let’s go back to April, 2008. The Tamarindo Foundation was hosting its first “Coffee House Fundraiser” at Fatima Retreat House in Indianapolis. Knowing that there were a large number of musicians (mainly amateur, but more on that later) with involvement in the Foundation, it was decided that we would provide our own entertainment. The “Tamarindo Band” was formed and played for what turned out to be the Foundation’s most successful fundraiser to date. Not that raising money is what the Tamarindo Band is exclusively about. It turns out that the Band members have great fun together, love to play together, and somehow magically transmit that feeling to its audience. <br /><br />After that first fundraiser, we still didn’t consider ourselves “A Band” or anything that concrete. We were a collection of like-minded friends, family and musicians who occasionally came together and then dispersed to our regular lives.<br /><br />As time went on, we were asked to play at more and more events. Typical gigs have included an evening at a few local bar/restaurants, birthday parties, high school faculty Christmas parties, parish fundraisers and, most recently, at a “Tune The Hall” performance at the world-class Palladium in Carmel, Indiana. We always pass on all of the income that we receive to the Foundation, which has totaled about $6,000.00 thus far. We like it that way.<br /><br />A typical performance would include tunes from the likes of Johnny Cash, Elvis, Jimmie Buffet, John Lennon, Willie Nelson, Wayland Jennings, Old Crow Medicine Show and a number of originals by Mary Sukup or John Funk. It is not unusual for folks to sing along and for the occasional guest artist to appear. <br /><br />The Band is composed of:<br /><br />Chris Dietrick - Acoustic and lead guitar; vocals. <br /><br />Chris Funk - Percussion. Brother of Ryan Funk and cousin of John Funk.<br /><br />John Funk - Acoustic and electric guitar; vocals; occasional percussion. Son of Tom Funk.<br /><br />Mary Sukup - Acoustic guitar; lead vocals.<br /><br />Mike Qualters (“Q”) - Lead vocals. Current president of the Tamarindo Foundation. <br /><br />Ryan Funk - Acoustic guitar, vocals.<br /> <br />Tom Funk - Bass guitar, vocals. <br /><br />Many of the band members have traveled to El Salvador and all except Mary Sukup, (who hails from Wyoming) are graduates of Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis. None of the band members are professional musicians except for Mary Sukup, who has been a music teacher for many years and has performed in many venues. Our guest artists have included Jim Funk (father of Ryan and Chris and brother of Tom) and Dawn Sukup (daughter of Mary). At the Palladium in January of this year and at our first Coffehouse Fundraiser, we had the pleasure of being joined by singer/songwriter Liz Fohl who is living and performing in Los Angeles after attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston. <br /><br />So the phenomenon of the Tamarindo Band really is something that “just happened” and continues to happen for the benefit of our friends in El Salvador and our fans here in central Indiana. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Rc4QLfEGEuRdqh10GiGintIJgXrS3Q84VQpguuNS6hIsumMg_slhTIGwDlVnicB2Pm7oG1NKiQe8yY1gG1bkCvPwCvi7RU4M9JYnkeZDAOQrBwYIk-a4y1k1MUhu2MN0zFvWGAWmqRU0/s1600/tamarindo+band+013.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Rc4QLfEGEuRdqh10GiGintIJgXrS3Q84VQpguuNS6hIsumMg_slhTIGwDlVnicB2Pm7oG1NKiQe8yY1gG1bkCvPwCvi7RU4M9JYnkeZDAOQrBwYIk-a4y1k1MUhu2MN0zFvWGAWmqRU0/s320/tamarindo+band+013.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654124697805531122" /></a>Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-49973054857126092002011-09-17T11:11:00.002-06:002011-09-17T11:21:53.316-06:00Agrochemicals in Guarjila and Their Danger to Our CommunityA couple of weeks ago, Fredi Maquina came to the Tamarindo shop limping and his face was as white as a ghost. He moved and spoke very slowly. He explained to me that he had been out in his bean field fumigating the crop with a back pack spray device and the chemicals had dripped down his back and burned the inside of his legs. The next day after working in the fields, Gio came into the shop with the same look as his brother; he was running a high fever, his eyes were somewhat closed and his speech was slurred.<br /><br />We then contacted a poison specialist in San Salvador who told us to bring the guys in immediately. The brothers had been poisoned by a cocktail of agrochemicals used on their crops. The physician treated Fredi for his burns and ordered lab work on both guys.<br /><br />Thank God both tested out fine and there was no damage to either liver or kidneys on this occasion. But every year hundreds of people in our communities get sick by the chemicals that they use to put food on the table. Annually, farm workers die here from exposure to agrochemicals.<br /><br />The farmers use combinations of paraquat, atranex, hedonal, gramoxine and MTD 60 SL (among other things) for a variety of needs. They are used to remove grass and weeds as well as to kill pests and parasites. Talking to Gio about what he uses is like being in a chemistry class - it's "a spoon of this and then a little of that and then a cap full of that. This kills that...but you better be careful with that stuff because a cap of it will take out a whole tree." Gio, like the others, is an "expert", self taught in the fields.<br /><br />Many of the above chemicals are without antidotes, and the warnings on the bottle mention heart, kidney, liver, esophagus and lung damage as well as cancer and birth defects as possible dangers. When I went to the store to research about the products, I found hundreds of warning labels tossed on the ground. Obviously the labels aren't being read.<br /><br />It is interesting that all the chemical products prescribe the use of gloves, protective masks and boots as a requirement to avoid exposure to the danger of the product; all warn about the risk of both short and long term illness as well as death.<br /><br />The macho culture we have here really plays a role in the negligence of the farmers (farmers like Gio and Fredi). So starting this weekend, we will begin a campaign in the TAMARINDO, making protective masks, gloves and boots available free of charge. (I found a guy that has donated masks and gloves).<br /><br />Gio has already given one talk and will continue to spread the message about the serious dangers of using the chemicals. Both Gio and Fredi are fine but we need to make an effort to protect all the young kids from the adverse effects of the agrochemicals that they start toting around at a young age. We need to educate them of the dangers of the products that are potentially life-threatening.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-67636038403065640832011-08-29T21:31:00.017-06:002011-09-03T10:35:53.709-06:00Summer Intern Reflections<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhl9lJwWrDVU68j4rMfloTJMbz8B961FU7ppV_OaJDfhonEs9l28rIxtDe52vyU9uhtoS-6qRY7KnOBqoYV5lVGd-9t065jWAv-759bp_CjYhbVwR3eJ4gWSackdOtd0hoHSo6us5z1cn/s1600/katy+with+kids.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhl9lJwWrDVU68j4rMfloTJMbz8B961FU7ppV_OaJDfhonEs9l28rIxtDe52vyU9uhtoS-6qRY7KnOBqoYV5lVGd-9t065jWAv-759bp_CjYhbVwR3eJ4gWSackdOtd0hoHSo6us5z1cn/s320/katy+with+kids.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648172174528792594" /></a>
<br /><strong>Katy Strader with Tamarindos</strong>
<br />
<br />I feel both excited and overwhelmed at the idea of attempting to write a final reflection on my short time with the Tamarindos. John said to me daily, “You simply cannot put us or this place in a box. We are constantly adjusting to the needs of this ever-changing community”. How do I find the words to describe the immense welcome, love and grace that each and every one of them showed me from the moment Douglas picked me up at the San Salvador airport on July 20th, until my last night in Guarjila, where we celebrated as a community my despedida? We were all hopeful that night saying “see you later”, rather than “goodbye”.
<br />
<br />I admit that at first I had no idea what to expect of my time in Guarjila. However, slowly but surely, my role developed into exactly what it was supposed to be, and I was able to do what God intended me to do while I was there. He showed me that it did not mean my English classes at the middle, high school or Tamarindo would go perfectly smoothly. Or that regardless of the fact that Rafa, Jaime, and Carlitos came to the Tamarindo with their beautiful smiles, that life at home was far from it. Life in Guarjila, and especially at the Tamarindo, is a beautiful paradox that is both pleasantly surprising some moments and heart-breaking at others.
<br />
<br />The prayer of St. Francis (…where there is hatred let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon, etc.) that is written on the wall of the Tamarindo reflects this irony that is everywhere in Guarjila – a place, along with much of the world, that is so burdened by abuse, dishonesty, and selfishness, but yet the Tamarindos try to go against what is normal here and do those things that are much more difficult – like love, respect, and serve others. We are all called to be a light in the darkness. The Tamarindos are the light for the community of Guarjila and they encouraged me to be a light in Indianapolis, at Depauw, and everywhere I go. Thank you, Tamarindos - you showed me peace, love, pardon, faith, hope, light, joy, consolation, and understanding.
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsrahjgFC1PxMR_PUorpwvoES3TkneqLxB0bqjy1G3pFLjo9jbeeQgrPmtXf7uLdwZ9zlGrmJOP7kJbXv6oNs5EaWuPSP5OYWbzXeBfncHJ_U2yE3aJhu4K1aUizZhlN8Lqb8nA_gLbik/s1600/Sarah+Schrading%252C+Ingrid%252C+Ana.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsrahjgFC1PxMR_PUorpwvoES3TkneqLxB0bqjy1G3pFLjo9jbeeQgrPmtXf7uLdwZ9zlGrmJOP7kJbXv6oNs5EaWuPSP5OYWbzXeBfncHJ_U2yE3aJhu4K1aUizZhlN8Lqb8nA_gLbik/s320/Sarah+Schrading%252C+Ingrid%252C+Ana.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648172701052131458" /></a>
<br /><strong>Sarah Schrading with Ingrid and Ana</strong>
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<br />This past Summer I took a trip to Guarjila, El Salvador, with my dad for 2 weeks. I planned on doing some sort of travel this summer, and I also wanted to do a service project. I'm a high school student from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a bunch of my friends were going on "service trips" to third world countries, where they would be doing hard labor like building schools and clinics. I asked my dad about these trips and his answer was that they were very expensive, and that we should just take a trip down to El Salvador and visit John Guiliano (My father and John worked together in El Salvador during the civil war). I agreed to go on the trip but I wasn't completely sure what I was getting into. When we arrived in Guarjila, I soon met the two Interns that had come from Stanford to work at the Tamarindo, and they showed me around the town. On my first day there, I already had countless amigos. One thing I quickly noticed was how little some people had, but I never heard them complain. I thought about my world back home and how many people spend $150 on designer jeans and consider the world completely over if they miss a party…
<br />
<br />My trip to El Salvador opened my mind on a whole new level. I'd find myself waking up at 4:30 in the morning to go work on the Milpa with my friend Gio and his brothers, something I'd never do when I was back home. I was also given the opportunity to teach English in a school with Amy and Peter, the other interns. Teaching kids at school was funny because they were my age, and were the same people that I would joke around with in the evenings at the Tamarindo.
<br />
<br />What I found is that the Tamarindo gives the people of Guarjila a chance to dream. Growing up, I remember always saying that I wanted to be a ballerina or a doctor. The Tamarindo gives the youth a sense of confidence, high hopes for the future, and ways to accomplish their dreams.
<br />
<br />Even though I was only down there for two short weeks, I believe that any place where kids have recreation, encouragement, education, and opportunities, that the world would be a better place. I miss everyone dearly and talk to my friends about the Tamarindos constantly since being back home. But John repeatedly told me, "This is your community now, Sarah." And I think he is right. I hope to return to Guarjila and to work and be a part of the Tamarindo next summer for a longer period of time!
<br />
<br /><strong>Peter Salazar</strong>
<br />
<br />As I reflect, I’m forced to confront the reality, frustrating though it may be, that I didn’t complete any great or magnificent works during my month there. What work this gringo did is nothing compared to that which the conscientious individuals of Guarjila carry out in patience and solidarity every day. I realize, now, that it wasn’t my place to give and teach alone, but also to receive and learn, truly learn, what it is to live outside of myself. I hope that I may have planted a few seeds, but I am nonetheless humbled by the goodness of many in this town in the face of trials and adversity.
<br />
<br />More than anything else, my stay taught me what it is to live outside of myself, to be truly concerned and attentive to the needs of others before my own. This was a thing that I learned from observing the work that is done here. That’s why the label of a “community organization” just doesn’t seem appropriate. The Tamarindo is the result of people loving and caring for others, and for that it is at the same time simpler and greater than any organization could ever become. John often spoke of the “revolution”, and only now do I think that I realize what it really means: the work of building the kingdom on earth cannot be left to a particular political or social ideology, but only to the simple and magnificent love of people for their brothers and sisters; in short, seeing the body of Christ in all of His people. This idea, not any organization, has the power to create a revolution in the world in which we live. I thank them for teaching me that, and I hope that I can aid them and your vision in the future.
<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-62500491056569697842011-08-23T13:26:00.003-06:002011-08-23T20:56:40.309-06:00It Is in Giving That We Receive<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLr6mq0RReqjGOb9bkZGqloiLzvlDZm6gCHd21bgGkPpaIC2CU5OI7nu9IINIvaAwkavNGDwlX2aIkMmp7vZ11CD2-KiKDm7HpP2oQLjLKVFapFphoLCqoVf-keUxt12XXCfdX2QKLWuv/s1600/nina+tancho.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLr6mq0RReqjGOb9bkZGqloiLzvlDZm6gCHd21bgGkPpaIC2CU5OI7nu9IINIvaAwkavNGDwlX2aIkMmp7vZ11CD2-KiKDm7HpP2oQLjLKVFapFphoLCqoVf-keUxt12XXCfdX2QKLWuv/s400/nina+tancho.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644250965500059986" /></a>
<br />I woke up this morning thinking about Niña Tancho. Her real name is Transito. An unusual name, even for here. She is always leading her many grandchildren and daughters to the Tamarindo. We sometimes joke, “It’s food night, the Tanchos will be here.” And sure enough, they are.
<br />
<br />They rarely say anything. They are overly polite in the food line. They often (on the sly) fill a bag or two with food to bring home. We never say anything about it. Tancho and her daughter may come with five little ones but we know there are others at home waiting for their return. We know that what they get at the Tamarindo is probably all the food they might get until their next meal (or maybe until the next day).
<br />
<br />You know, as "sophisticated" as Guarjila seems to be getting - with a highway coming, kids with new clothes (not to mention the slicked back hair), crazy new smart phones, Facebook and Twitter pages - there are still those in need, great need.
<br />
<br />So there is Tancho, who almost weekly asks for $25 for food. She speaks really slowly and looks you straight in the eye. How could anyone say no?
<br />
<br />But who is Tancho?
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<br />She is the first person to get up when a stranger walks into the room to greet them with a firm handshake or most probably a huge hug. She is the first person to get up after a community soup or spaghetti night to wash the huge metal pot we have (which is always burnt black from being used over the open fire).
<br />
<br />She is the woman that spends her days not only caring for her own “challenging family”, but also the one who walks the town, house to house, visiting the sick and most in need.
<br />
<br />She is the woman at community prayer who is not challenged by knowing who to pray for; she usually has a list of people she visited that day.
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<br />She is also famous at the Cerro Verde National Park, where she climbed a volcano barefoot (the Park Rangers were amazed at how she was able to do that).
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<br />She is the woman who believes when most of us just wonder.
<br />
<br />There is a painting on one of our walls which says, <span style="font-weight:bold;">“It is in giving that we receive...” </span>
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<br />As the oldest Tamarindo (no one really knows her age), Niña Tancho is the woman that gives. And hopefully from all of us, she gets something in return.
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<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-63483992876754644252011-08-22T19:53:00.003-06:002011-08-22T20:22:55.123-06:00Tamarindo Band Fundraiser at the Claddagh Pub!The Tamarindo Cover Band (Mary Sukup, Chris Dietrick, Tom Funk, Mike Qualters, Chris Funk, JT Funk, Alexa Sifuentes, Ryan Funk), composed of board members and those who love the Tamarindos, played last Friday at the Claddagh in Indianapolis.
<br />It was a fun night at an outdoor venue with great music, food, and friends of the Tamarindo and they were able to raise money!
<br />Thanks to all who donated and sang along to the classic songs! :)
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzgO2BWN2_rkX926lE0Rj7xlJcR3vko0kjj3D-6PhDGIK6GLqUm7J5jI9oWYHZjivvOGsA-M8BDlhS9OfIVXg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-26201851543823355082011-08-22T10:04:00.001-06:002011-08-22T10:07:04.820-06:00Mike Qualter's Ironman FundraiserMike Qualters, president of the foundation, is doing an IRONMAN this upcoming weekend to raise money for the Tamarindos! Click the link below if you'd like to make a donation and see his campaign! What a great thing to do - a 140 mile triathlon!
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<br />http://www.imathlete.com/donate/MikeQualtersIronmanForTheTamarindoFoundationInc?z=1314028589861
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<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-40924514593669129172011-08-16T20:18:00.004-06:002011-08-16T20:26:36.951-06:00Sports Save Lives<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvim-4gQ7VYBbO1OacQ9eJlyg6zBcxK34S8mAMj9aoCvZW2wzvdh07dZiB2xm2mdiTy0lCEIL7hIdEBC_eMRy8tMmNNueNO0p1m4AKH8-Ej9Al3BPaF0Cv67-7r92N9KWQ7sv1ZaNQiZc/s1600/johnny+hockey.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvim-4gQ7VYBbO1OacQ9eJlyg6zBcxK34S8mAMj9aoCvZW2wzvdh07dZiB2xm2mdiTy0lCEIL7hIdEBC_eMRy8tMmNNueNO0p1m4AKH8-Ej9Al3BPaF0Cv67-7r92N9KWQ7sv1ZaNQiZc/s320/johnny+hockey.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641645362458248130" /></a>
<br />We received the news that Mauricio Funes, President of El Salvador, will begin a draft into the military for kids ages 16+ that are at risk of falling into gangs. He will begin this program looking for 5000 recruits in 25 counties that are most effected by gangs.
<br />
<br />I’m concerned that we are falling back into the days when the army would stop buses and pull “strong looking boys” off the buses and send them off to the military barracks (“you are in the army now”)....without even contacting their families.
<br />
<br />What set of criteria will they use? What constitutes a potential gang member? Someone with a tattoo or a piercing? A kid who is just hanging out on a corner?
<br />
<br />When will this "solution" spread to places like Guarjila? How many of our kids will be taken away as they will be judged to be a potential public safety problem? (I’m sure a few of my hockey players could be judged by authorities to be a threat to society)
<br />
<br />This news motivates me more to create the new <em><strong>Tamarindo Center</strong></em> where we will engage kids 24 hours a day if necessary. Sport can change a life!
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<br />As all this news comes in, our “kids” continue to prepare for a series of hockey exhibitions in San Salvador and a date with the Guatemalan National Inline hockey team. (Margaret Miller and the students at St. Francis have been so generous, helping us get new skates for our players).
<br />
<br />What we do may seem small and insignificant, but sports are a powerful tool. I know that it can pull kids off the street at night. I know it can keep them away from a joint, a bottle, or a needle. I know it can motivate kids to aspire to greater things. I know it can make a kid that hates himself find self worth.
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<br />So when it’s night time in Guarjila and the authorities are in search of new recruits, let them follow our kids to the Tamarindo. Let them see what can be done. Let them know that kids at risk have an alternative to a military barracks, a penitentiary or the cemetery.
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<br />Please pray with me today for these kids in El Salvador (the one’s that look good, and the one’s with tattoos), and let’s pray for the resources to build a new Tamarindo Center. These kids need us.
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<br />With great thanks,
<br />
<br />jg
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdKt2MZfzsFrVotM-jg8kxtOfndyMez49wQnRVdW5Z-Oeh9d4V8vORkTW2oCNefbzp1lvGnCznE0fID8-WZkEZYUYP13NTZ2r8eYf0uVdKr5dIoyLyAWsP6TFqwHPLy9AKQ2Qh-qys4-c/s1600/girls+cycling+group.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdKt2MZfzsFrVotM-jg8kxtOfndyMez49wQnRVdW5Z-Oeh9d4V8vORkTW2oCNefbzp1lvGnCznE0fID8-WZkEZYUYP13NTZ2r8eYf0uVdKr5dIoyLyAWsP6TFqwHPLy9AKQ2Qh-qys4-c/s400/girls+cycling+group.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641645571819630130" /></a>
<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-88719040952564325442011-08-16T20:00:00.003-06:002011-08-16T20:15:48.638-06:00Pray for Fr. Dean Brackley, SJ<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiishjCAs0jcZ6D98jwNEqu7NpV4OEWzrHRSZGP20CB9iT7az0D-mMRONL-Ly3oPki8rjzeBL2995w1mCGDayvOiXPuXCdQVc5TU9wDWnVRqTYtVIpMFNft9xs66XEgNOIEcKgRu2fZBHJH/s1600/dean+brackley.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiishjCAs0jcZ6D98jwNEqu7NpV4OEWzrHRSZGP20CB9iT7az0D-mMRONL-Ly3oPki8rjzeBL2995w1mCGDayvOiXPuXCdQVc5TU9wDWnVRqTYtVIpMFNft9xs66XEgNOIEcKgRu2fZBHJH/s400/dean+brackley.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641642819324035426" /></a>
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<br />Friends,
<br />
<br />I just received a note about Fr. Dean Brackley, SJ, who was diagnosed
<br />with cancer in his liver. Dean is a Jesuit priest at the UCA who came here in
<br />1990 after the murder of the Jesuits at the University. What good thing can’t be said about him? What hasn’t he done?
<br />
<br />He is theologian...writer....spiritual director....retreat
<br />master...pastor...inspiration...public speaker...community
<br />organizer....priest...friend. He is so many things to so many people.
<br />
<br />He will be receiving treatment here in El Salvador and his doctor says he can be treated. I know that cancer isn’t a death sentence. I know that Dean will continue to
<br />be a witness to life and to love, as he has done so year after year (in El
<br />Salvador, the South Bronx, and other places).
<br />
<br />I ask that our Tamarindo Community around the United States pray with
<br />Dean....for holy indifference, as St. Ignatius would say, “... not
<br />preferring health to sickness, riches to poverty, honor to
<br />humiliation, long life to a short one.” May he be given the grace to
<br />continue his witness and to be given the strength to deal with
<br />whatever special circumstances that may come his way.
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<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-39691365310889826552011-08-12T14:01:00.003-06:002011-08-12T14:13:37.572-06:00With Confidence We ASKLast night we reflected on the persistence of a woman. She had a sick daughter and went to Jesus and begged for his help. The companions of Jesus felt that this women was very annoying and they wanted to send her off. Despite the difficulty, she kept asking. Eventually, her cry was heard and her daughter was healed. It's a beautiful story about the persistance to keep asking.
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<br />Jaime said that he felt that the beauty of the story was that she wasn't asking for herself but for her daughter. It made me think of Fr. Dean Brackely who is struggling with cancer and writes to all of us to pray for the people of Somalia.
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<br />Then Luis brought up the story of our very own Dr. Carlos Alfaro (who is an orthopedic surgeon). When scholarships were made available to study abroad to study medicine, Carlos went everyday to the office where the scholarships were being administered. I don't think the secretary liked him (nor the scholarship committee); he couldn't even get in the door. But everyday he went; and everyday he was told, "NO". The first year went by and he was rejected. The second year he continued - this kid went everyday. He asked and asked. Finally, the director granted him the scholarship (he probably just wanted to get him out of the country at that point)! Because he persisted, today he is a doctor.
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<br />So what's the point here? Under this tin roof (our crumbling Tamarindo Shop), we have the confidence to ask for help... we need God and each other. We are not deterred by difficulty, failure, fear, trouble. We are like that woman who kept asking. We will keep asking... and keep working, keep loving, keep creating, keep giving.
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<br />.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-21606193710844004852011-08-08T11:03:00.002-06:002011-08-08T11:08:04.601-06:00Thoughts on MediocrityYesterday at 5:30am, our hockey team loaded the truck with bags of equipment, sticks, goals and all other necessary "stuff" we need for our workouts. It's not easy moving a whole hockey team for a trip to the city, but it's something we do every week because we want to play and we want to get better. By 6:20am, with all our gear loaded, we filled up our bus with players and managers and we were on our way to San Salvador's National Sports Palace for practice.
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<br />When we arrived two hours later, we learned that we had been bumped from the facility for the HSBC International Table Tennis Tournament (meaning no practice for the national team yesterday). So we climbed back onto the bus and started to head back home when we were stopped by the police.
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<br />The cop wanted to know where we had gone (he saw us on the other side of the road on the way in earlier that morning) and wondered where we were headed with two hockey nets on a Saturday morning. After I explained the whole hockey-table tennis mix up, he began asking me questions: "So no practice today coach? No big deal for you right? They pay you the same if you practice or not?"
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<br /><em>No practice....they pay the same</em>. I was troubled by those questions he posed, and so began a morning reflection on living in the realm of the mediocre.
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<br />Obviously for that officer, what he does, or how he does it, really doesn't matter to him. Eight hours (or ten or twelve) of work are just that - hours to work, time to be filled. What seemed more important for that mediocre cop was his salary; not his performance. A good job or a bad job brings in the same result.
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<br />So the same goes for a mediocre athlete - having practice or not, training to get better, winning or losing, has little importance. Similarly, a grade of an A or a C is the same for the mediocre student. For mediocre governments or political systems - providing the basics is enough; with little room for the soul, for beauty, for creativity, for real human development. In other words, just do the minimum. Fill your quota. Do just what you have to do. Just get "it" done are the mottos of those who chose to be mediocre.
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<br />Here is the essential problem we face in Guarjila, in the rest of this country (and in many places around the world) - institutions and people who have no real investment in their jobs or how they do them. To them, a job is a job, a shift is something to "get through." The only question asked is, “What's in it for me?”
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<br />In the Tamarindo, one of our goals has to be to destroy this culture of mediocrity. Kids can't just show up here to fill their weekly obligations. A body in a seat just isn't enough. The Tamarindo isn't a "drop in center". It's a group of people, a community, committed to changing themselves, each other, their town, their country...and the world.
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<br />Here we have more than just a responsibility to show up. Here we are required to give of ourselves and commit to excellence. Here, "love is the measure," and success is equated by one's ability to be generous.
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<br />So we thank that cop for this week’s reflection point. <em>Yes, it does matter </em>if we practice or not. <em>Yes, it does matter </em>what we do and how we do it. And yes, being a Tamarindo means that we always strive to be more than just mediocre, but rather strive to give our BEST.
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<br />Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-20879993872865474082011-08-05T09:08:00.001-06:002011-08-05T09:10:41.856-06:00Peter Salazar's Reflection on the TamarindosSpending the last month in the constant company of the Tamarindos, I find myself thinking a lot about the true nature of what we in the States so loosely call an “organization”. Whenever I begin to tell anyone about my time spent there, I find that the only way to give them a satisfactory answer is to say that I was working (or even, I shudder to think, “interning”) at a community organization that provides opportunities for disadvantaged youth. And the people are generally happy with that explanation, and continue along their merry way with the thought that someone they know was helping the poor in a backwards, Central American country. And yet it greatly saddens me to do this, since it doesn’t even come close to being able to explain my stay. That month spent amongst you was much more than my giving my time as a teacher or organizer. The true value of those days, I have come to realize, lies in the time spent – though it was much too short – living in your midst, growing closer in friendship and understanding with people of a background radically different from my own.<br /><br /> As I reflect I’m forced to confront the reality, frustrating though it may be, that I didn’t complete any great or magnificent works during my month there. What work this gringo did is nothing compared to that which the conscientious individuals of Guarjila carry out in patience and solidarity every day. I realize, now, that it wasn’t my place to give and teach alone, but also to receive and learn, truly learn, what it is to live outside of myself. I hope that I may have planted a few seeds, but I am nonetheless humbled by the goodness of many in this town in the face of trials and adversity.<br /><br /> Before I left, I asked John a question that had been bouncing around in my head for a good part of the month, namely, why it is that he had never expanded the Tamarindo to other locations in an effort to spread its benefits elsewhere. To an extent, I think that I now understand why it hasn’t, and why the Tamarindo wasn’t a foundation from the start. More than anything else, my stay taught me what it is to live outside of myself, to be truly concerned and attentive to the needs of others before my own. This was a thing that I learned from observing the work that is done here. That’s why the label of a “community organization” just doesn’t seem appropriate. There is no faith here in the apparatus of an organization and its ability to attain funding or expand. The Tamarindo is the result of people loving and caring for people, and for that it is at the same time simpler and greater than any organization could ever become. John often spoke of the “revolution”, and only now do I think that I realize what it really means: the work of building the kingdom on earth cannot be left to a particular political or social ideology, but only to the simple and magnificent love of people for their brothers and sisters, in short, seeing the body of Christ in all of his people. This idea, not any organization, has the power to create a revolution in the world in which we live. I thank you for teaching me that, and I hope that I can aid you and your vision in the future. <br /> <br /><br />Love,<br />Peter SalazarTamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-74934593554781762502011-08-04T19:29:00.002-06:002011-08-04T20:14:19.665-06:00Quitters Never Win and Winners Never QuitCompanions,<br /><br />At last night’s weekly Friday night meeting, we discussed the difference between winning and losing (in life, studies, work, family and sport). And it all came down to giving up or pushing through.<br /><br />It was just a few days ago when I watched three women quit during a soccer game. They just stopped playing. They were behind by a score of 3-1 with a half still to play and just walked off the field.<br /><br />There was something really disturbing for me about watching that happen - as if it was just ok for them to give up - as if it was out of habit - <em>things get tough, walk away.</em> <br /><br />What was it that made them give up so easily? Was it that same voice in the heads of many of our kids who frequently give up so easily? The ones who hear: “You can’t...” “Why try?” “You must be kidding, ...” “Loser.” “You’re from Guarjila, what can you do?”<br /><br />I have seen it many times before. Things get started with good intentions but then are left behind out of laziness, fear, apathy, not enough support, or lack of self-confidence. Kids quit teams; community projects are started and then just left unfinished; dreams never take root... Life goes on from a street corner, but without the feeling of accomplishment or self-love, waiting for another day to end.<br /><br />So we asked the question last night - <em>What is the difference between winning and losing?</em> The Tamarindos’ response was: preparation, discipline, love, sacrifice, attitude, hard work. This is what it takes to be a winner.<br /><br />I once read somewhere that, “The difference between the winner and the loser is the winner’s willingness to do the things the loser refuses to do.” So we refuse to accept “losing” here in the Tamarindo. We reject others’ sympathy or any excuse to not try. We reject the labels given to us like poor, disadvantaged, third world, second rate....<br /><br />We decide that we won’t make excuses. We stand up. We sweat. We work harder. We study harder. We play harder. We do all that we are capable of doing to win – in school, on the field, at home, as a Tamarindo.<br /><br />Like Phil Pepe (a sports writer) found on a locker room wall, “Quitters never win and winners never quit;” we refuse to quit, although sometimes the clock will run out on us, and sometimes the score will be against us. <em>Bien.</em> We go on. And we come back for another day as winners.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-13567249290516159122010-11-04T18:45:00.000-06:002010-11-04T18:50:54.089-06:00Time to Build the KingdomHere it is cool and “fall” like. We have had a sudden weather changeand it has been a shock to the agriculture of the region. The rainjust ended….weeks before it was supposed to. People watch as theirbeans just dry out by both wind and October sun. Life of thefarmer…..life in Latin America (live today because disaster alwayslurks around the corner). Now the weather “experts” say we will be struck with the effects oftwo hurricanes colliding somewhere, which will bring twenty days ofrain and wind. All predict disaster is coming. It is such a fear thatthe school is doing final exams next week and will close for the yearbefore the rains begin. Does anyone have experience at arc building?Does anyone know how long “300 cubits by 50 cubits by 30 cubits” is? Today my co-worker Luis Lopez left at 4:30 am for his audience withthe US embassy (it seems all journeys from El Salvador begin in thedark). A trip to the embassy is reminiscent of a trip to see theWizard of Oz. When Luis is called he will enter a room with mirrorsfor walls. He will slide his VISA application, passport and TamarindoFoundation letter (signed by our very own chairmen of the board Mr.Bud Frutkin) into a hole in the wall as a voice (the Wizardhimself?)” will begin to ask him questions. Imagine this voice coming from out of the glass, serious andefficient with no wasted emotion (like a scene from a Stanley Kubrickfilm); “What is your motive for traveling to the United States of America?” “How much money do you have in the bank?” “Do you own property?” “Who is this Bud Frutkin guy…? “ The “Wizard” doesn’t miss a trick. We hope that it will go well and wecan send him north on the 25th of October. His journey to four USstates will have five goals (with an extra three for fun): 1) invite new people to become part of our Tamarindo Community(organize local events, find new interns for the summer of 2011,discover new support in every creative way possible)2) meet and energize all of you on your home turf3) inspire much needed financial support4) enjoy the experience of being with all of you5) say thank you from all of us (for all that you do)6) skate on ice7) see an NHL hockey game8) in California visit the house of John Fogherty (Credence Clearwater Revival) The Tamarindo Community goes well with much emphasis these days oncommunity life and reflection. The work of analysis, understandingand prayer is paramount to everything that we do. We just completed afabulous theatrical presentation “The Voice of God: Calling Us”.Special effects included a chain saw, a mini forest and a lovelyperformance by David Petete as God. The central theme was ourresponsibility in “God’s Revolution”……building the kingdom. Thequestion to our community was; What are YOU doing today to build the“New Society” (change the world) ?Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-19710173969922192062010-07-10T20:12:00.000-06:002010-07-13T20:13:14.335-06:00Wellness in GuarjilaWellness in Guarjila<br /><br />Over the past couple of months my morning hours have been occupied<br />with many visit from mom’s and dad’s who come to the office just to<br />talk about stress related issues. Many of the issues are related to<br />the fear of the new highway and losing their homes, economics, health<br />care concerns, and some depression related to children being so far<br />away in the Unites States. According to Dr. Dagaberto he is also<br />seeing the same kind of issues with his patients in the clinic here in<br />Guarjila.<br /><br />This has led us to develop with Santos Alfaro spaces for adult<br />recreation and exercise. The programs include walking, hiking,<br />swimming, indoor soccer and exercise classes which are being made<br />available to all adults in Guarjila. There is no question how<br />important these programs will become as part of an overall wellness<br />program for the people of this town. Like in the US there are still<br />skeptics that would still prefer expensive prescription medicine to<br />exercise and diet. We hope individual success will inspire others to<br />try on “wellness”.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-88492561150409874892010-07-05T21:11:00.000-06:002010-07-13T20:12:23.157-06:00Organic FoodOrganic Food<br /><br />In the past, April in Guarjila was all about preparing the land for<br />the planting of corn. April conversation was centered on when would<br />the rain begins so the work could begin. This year there seems very<br />little movement toward the land. Every year it seems that less and<br />less people are growing their own food. Luis Lopez told me he thinks<br />that only 50 % of the population in Guarjila will actually grow their<br />own food this year. This of course will have tremendous impact not<br />only on the health and well being of our people but will have a<br />tremendous effect on the culture of what was once campesino and rural.<br />It has become clear that the youth have little affinity to the land<br />which their mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters fought and died<br />on. There is also little appreciation for the agriculture of their<br />parents.<br /><br />Our response to this has been to create an organic gardening space<br />here in the Tamarindo where Tamarindo’s can grow food, learn about<br />organic farming and even have fun doing it. The community has been<br />organized into four teams which will grow organic vegetables. The<br />teams will compete for the next five months, the length of the growing<br />season.<br /><br />Weather permitting the organic farming groups will be able to come to<br />the Tamarindo and work the garden at night under lights. Each team has<br />been given the same area to farm. Each team will also receive the same<br />seeds. The only rule is to use no chemical fertilizers or<br />insecticides. We have asked experienced members of the community to<br />come and give us technical advice and other assistance. Prizes will be<br />awarded at the end of the growing season to each team. Tamarindo hands<br />are going back into the soil.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-79184448099741325322010-06-28T17:10:00.000-06:002010-07-13T20:11:11.511-06:00We Invite You to Help Us Plant TreesWe Invite You to Help Us Plant Trees<br /><br />In response to the highway destruction which will soon happen all<br />around us we in the Tamarindo have decided to start a reforestation<br />project with the people of Guarjila. It is our goal to plant 1750<br />trees (a tree for every person in Guarjila) over the summer months<br />inviting every sector of the community to get involved and plant<br />trees. We will also incorporate all our summer volunteers/interns as<br />well as our summer groups from California. With the help of our<br />community council we will begin to purchase trees over the next few<br />weeks.<br /><br />We also want to announce this campaign to all our friends and friends<br />of the environment. We would like to give you the opportunity to be a<br />part of our project by sponsoring a tree. Each tree sponsorship will<br />be $5 which will guarantee the purchase of a tree and it’s planting<br />here in Guarjila or in the hills that surround us.<br /><br />We will be planting wood bearing trees (for construction and cooking<br />fuel) in the hills and fruit trees for family plots inside the<br />community. The highway construction will eliminate thousands of trees<br />so we invite you to stand with us and plant.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5995956392011991375.post-4801582855845926122010-06-13T20:09:00.000-06:002010-07-13T20:10:10.297-06:00The Highway to Divide GuarjilaThe Highway to Divide Guarjila<br /><br />Our big issue these days and (months) has been the construction of<br />this major highway that will link Chalatenango with Morazán. There are<br />already two major highways that run east to west, the Pan American<br />highway (Pan Americano) which stretches across the middle of the<br />country, and the Southern Highway (“Carretera El Literal”) which runs<br />along the southern coast. Now we see the beginning of the northern<br />highway being built with Millennium Funds from the United States which<br />is being called “La Longitudinal del Norte”. Our argument here is not<br />if the road should be built. The road will unquestionable benefit the<br />region and is a necessary part of development. The issue here is why<br />it has to be built right through Guarjila.<br /><br />We have exhausted ourselves in meetings and conferences with<br />representatives from the Salvadoran government and private business.<br />We have heard promises about the benefits to Guarjila. We have seen<br />slick presentations showing the “new” Guarjila. Bottom line is the<br />road is coming. A road which will divide the Guarjila we know, take<br />out many houses (maybe my own), make walking in Guarjila a hazard for<br />elderly and children, and finally destroy thousands of trees which<br />Guarjila and El Salvador desperately need.Tamarindo Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18130641221801543542noreply@blogger.com0