Rosie Epler, Jon Quinn, Carol Michels, Karen Conroy
Carole Berg, Publicity Chair
Every Quail Creek unit has its own flavor, and Unit 15 says it best in their unofficial motto: “Once a Unit 15er, always a Unit 15er,” even if you move to another unit. Tucked east of Quail Crossing Boulevard along the south side of Quail Range Loop, this 120-home neighborhood proves that when neighbors lean in, good things multiply.
At the helm is Unit Rep Jon Quinn who stepped into leadership in 2023. A New York native, Jon moved to North Tucson in 2004 before joining the QC community in 2010. His desire to give back sparked something remarkable: the Unit 15 annual Food Bank Party. What began with modest donations has grown into an extraordinary legacy, raising $61,364 and collecting 6,717 pounds of food since the first party in 2011. Another neighbor has since stepped forward to continue this meaningful tradition. That is how community works.
Jon is also a master at gathering good people around him. “I’ve got my helpers,” he says, and he certainly does. Rosie, Carol, and Karen may not claim official co-rep titles, but they are the heartbeat behind countless activities. When asked to meet for a quick photo, they arrived with enthusiasm and shared props in hand. Need ideas? Spend five minutes at their table, and inspiration starts flowing.
With Jon’s travel schedule, Unit 15 would welcome someone willing to serve as co-rep, lending a hand with meetings and votes when needed. It is a wonderful way to stay connected and contribute.
Now, meet the quiet social spark plugs and their short list of activities, with many more beyond: Canasta since 2008, Mah Jongg, Book Club, Happy Hour meets, Biking Club, Men Who Do Nothing, and the many holiday gatherings that fill the calendar.
Rosie Epler, originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, has called Unit 15 home for 19 years. Alongside Karen and Carol, she helps spark creative events and uses GroupSpot to rally neighbors. Her favorite? Coordinating a 60-person outing to The Gaslight Theatre followed by dinner at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse. Events like that run on cooperation and a generous sprinkle of joy.
Carol Michels journeyed from Oshkosh, Wis., through Durango, Colo., before landing in Arizona in 2010. She thrives on gathering neighbors and welcoming input. Her favorite tradition is biking with the Unit 15 ladies to Empty Bowls for the past seven years. Soup tastes better when shared for a cause.
Karen Conroy arrived in 2020 from the Twin Cities, Minn. She especially loves the Holiday Potluck Food Bank Parties where generosity fills every table. She encourages others to step in to help shape future activities. Many hands truly do make light work.
Remember, some units are still seeking reps and co-reps. If you feel the nudge, contact Unit Chair Bobbi Gordon at ogbg@sbcglobal.net. Our next meeting is Tuesday, March 17, at 3 p.m. in the Silver Room at the Madera clubhouse.