October 26
Michael Hughes-CEO and Dana Martinez-Chief Director of Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, Sierra Bes - Community Engagement Coordinator from ' CAAFA - A New Leaf ' shared information about the merger of 'CAAFA' with 'A New Leaf' and how the combination of the two organizations has increased their reach and resources, allowing them to assist more individuals and families. The organization offers a wide range of support and services to individuals and families in need - ie housing and shelter services -- sexual and domestic violence services. As all non-profits, the organization is seeing more people with needs as a result of Covid and the difficult economy -- and therefore find they need more donations/support from the community so they can provide help to more individuals and families needing help.
James Wilson, Assistant General Manager of Arizona Water - was inducted as our newest Club member.October 19
Our speaker was Brandi Hunsaker, President of the Apache Junction Little League. Her presentation included memories about many of the Little League players from over the years. She spoke about the challenges and rewards of the program -- and how much the program helps young people in our community. A goal of the program has been to keep the program as low cost as possible for young people to be able to participate and play the sport. Also she shared that the donation made by the Club to the league in February had allowed them to purchase 3 new sets of catchers gear for this coming season. Today the Club was able to surprise her with another donation of $750 to help with needed equipment, funds to assist with 'pay-to-play', and other player needs, which will allow more deserving young people the opportunity to participate in sports. Additional funding is needed to help support the program and various equipment needs. For more information - https://tshq.bluesombrero.com/Default.aspx?tabid=1857166 -- https://www.facebook.com/ajlittleleague/
October 12
David Ramirez, 'Public Information Officer of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport', shared a very informative presentation with photos and facts about all that has been happening at Sky Harbor. Airlines have added more routes. There has been much growth, with more updates and features still planned. David also shared fun info, such as available motorist service, if as example, a person cannot find their car in the parking garage, or they are out of gas, etc -- the sky train which people like a lot -- planning air traffic for the upcoming Super Bowl / many visitors the event will bring to Phoenix -- musical events at the airport -- pet relief areas -- and more.
October 5
Our speaker was Nancy Fassbender, representing Wreaths Across America / Pinal County Veterans Memorial Foundation and author of 'My Fallen Hero'. Nancy has been very active in a variety of activities and events throughout several years which focus on honoring military veterans. She shared information about several upcoming events to honor veterans and military - 'Celebrations of Veterans' on Sun- Nov 13th in Gold Canyon in Gold Canyon , 'National Wreaths Across America Remembrance Day' on Dec 17th in Mesa, and on March 25th, 2023 the '50th Anniversary Welcome Home Veterans Day' also in Mesa. The public is invited to all these events.
She gave lapel pins to veterans who were in attendance, in recognition of their service.