Local opinion: In appreciation of the Arizona Inn

An Open Letter to Patty Doar of the Arizona Inn:

It was lunchtime, one day soon after Covid vaccinations were available, and the Arizona Inn was opened to the public again. I was in the Audubon Bar, sitting on one of those sofas you sink into that skirt the tables in the middle of the room. The cheese plate and glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc I ordered were on the table in front of me. I glanced up for a moment, and just by chance, saw you walk in from the patio entrance with a man — possibly your son Will.

I was not sure it was you as I had not seen you since the mid-90s. Then I saw you stop in front of the piece of artwork on the north wall behind the piano. You were pointing toward the left bottom corner, with a forlorn look on your face, as if saddened by a flaw or wear and tear on the art piece. I knew it had to be you at that moment. Who else would pay that close attention to detail?

When I left that day, I walked across the room to see what it was you saw. It was indeed a tiny chip in that work of art.

I was shocked and saddened to hear the news that the Arizona Inn is up for sale. However, my fears were somewhat allayed when I came to the Arizona Inn for lunch with a friend this past Saturday. I stopped by the front desk, told the staff behind the counter about how I worked at the Inn from 77-78 while in college, and then again when I moved back to Tucson briefly from the greater Los Angeles area in the mid-90s. That was when you were running the Inn.

They told me not to worry. I asked if you were in on the decision. They said that you are very much involved.

I told these two young staff about how Jack Greenway was such a nice man. Always so kind to all his young — and old — staff.

Mr. Greenway was still alive when I was working there, in 77-78. There was an old woman, maybe late 70s, named Esther who wore a mint-green uniform and hat — much like what nurses wore. Esther was tall and thin, well-kept.

She seemed to be losing her memory as she never knew where she parked her car at the end of the day. One of us would walk the back streets of Blenman Elm to help find her car.

There was a small dining room off to the right of the African and Safari room that served lunch for the executives. There were not many executives, but Esther served lunch to Mr. Minerich, the general manager, daily. She would also fold the cloth napkins used in the dining rooms and for catering events. I always loved this. Especially years later when I could appreciate how truly great it was that this woman was not let go, but was able to keep her job, dignity, and independence.

I told these two young staff about how I was the poolside waitress. How I waited on Lillian Hellman. I do not think they knew who she was. I shared that while standing at the front desk, I turned to look behind me. There was Bette Davis with her big eyes in a Chanel suit, looking glamorous. She saw me give a double take. I turned to face the front again but could not resist turning around to stare at her. Bette Davis looked up toward the ceiling and turned ever so slightly to ensure I would not engage in a conversation.

The library room is one of my favorite rooms. We always go for a drink during the holiday season. The tree and fireplace make for a special evening.

I hope you do not allow the Arizona Inn fall into the wrong hands.

Your forlorn look when noticing the chip in that art piece in the Audubon Bar by the piano that day long ago, makes me believe you will not let it get into the wrong hands.

Respectfully,

Mary