Welcome to Cal-Nev-Ha Division 42!

Hello Kiwanians-

November has come and gone; the Holiday Season is off in full speed! November is a month of reflection. The very first day is known as Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead. It is a day of remembrance, celebration, and reflection that is practiced by individuals from Meso-American and Latino backgrounds to honor those who have passed, but most importantly a day where the souls of our loved ones who are no longer with us are invited to spend a day with us through celebrations of life. Altares or alters are constructed to showcase those who have passed with pictures, food, and other objects that represent them and or have been left behind to be shared and remembered. It is important that those honored are provided with the necessities to return to their respective resting after the celebration. It is essential to provide them with the following to help them through their journey. A glass of water, so they don’t go thirsty. Their favorite food, so they don’t go hungry. A candle, so they navigate the dark. Sage, so that they are able to purify and cleanse themselves and their path from bad spirits. Marigold flowers, so they use the petals to mark their path to and from their resting place without getting lost. Honoring those who have come before us allows us to reflect and appreciate the opportunities we have if it weren’t for their place and actions in this Earth.

From Day of the Dead, we honor those who have afforded us our freedoms as Citizens of the Great United States of America. November 11th, Veterans are celebrated and for those who have passed, are remembered through parades and recognitions. THANK YOU to those who have served or are currently serving in order for Us to be able to practice our respective religions, beliefs, and traditions, such as Day of the Dead without fearing any type of retaliation. We will end the month with Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday! A day where we reflect, pay tribute, and give thanks to, _________________, well you fill in the blank. This Thanksgiving, I want to give thanks to everyone who has contributed to me being here today, from my ancestors, to my parents, to my new Wife, Children, Family, Friends, Mentors, and All of You Kiwanis for everything that you do. Your hard work, commitment, and dedication to your communities have assured that individuals in need are able to stay warm this winter, have a meal to eat during the holidays, and most importantly are seen and heard as Humans. THANK YOU!

Wishing you and yours the best Thanksgiving,  

Cuauhtemoc “Temo” Solorio