CELEBRATING LOCAL HEROES
Flagstaff's City Commission on Disability Awareness Presents...

Social hour began at 4:30 p.m. with the Roberto Olivera Band providing music with a sweet Latin Jazz to establish an atmosphere that fit well with the backdrop of mountains and the Elk Lodge nestled into the pines. Individual after individual, couple after couple, and groups after groups began to fill the room where the event was scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. The introduction was given by Dr. Katrina S. Rogers who gave recognition to various individuals in the room that were instrumental in the overall production of this annual banquet and celebration.

The Chapter was recognized not only because of our financial contribution, but also because of our contribution in improving the quality of life for veterans and citizens alike who have disabilities. The Chapter's National Director, Art Hardy, and his wife Kathleen along with the Chapter's Government Relations Director, Michael Roberts, received applause and shouts of appreciation for attending this event which they reported as being a very humbling experience for just the mere act of representing the Chapter.

Immediately preceding some brief remarks by the MC, Bruce Kennedy, accolades were given to the keynote speaker, Heather Urick, Miss Wheelchair Arizona, representing Arizona as a woman of such beauty, grace, intelligence, and giving. Her speech was truly moving. She gave recognition to a local NAU professor who taught her that disability was something that a person is honored with and that if a person with a disability utilizes that recognition by helping others to honor themselves one can become self-actualized or fulfilled. Her moving poem at the end of her presentation prepared the tone for the remainder of the evening of recognizing individuals, families, and organizations who have contributed to improving the quality of life for residents of Flagstaff who have disabilities.

The Chapter would like to extend its appreciation to Vice-Mayor Al White and to the people of Flagstaff for allowing us to be part of this rewarding and enriching experience. We would also like to inform the residents of Flagstaff that we are expanding our programs and services more and more to the outlying rural areas and WE PLAN TO BE INVOLVED MORE AND MORE AS THE NEED ARISES!