Very Successful 2019 Historymakers Gala

It was a wonderful Historymaker Gala honoring six distinguished Arizonans Saturday, Feb 23, 2019 at the AZ Biltmore Resort in the Grand Ballroom. 
Such inspiring, heart-felt speeches. 
Such Turquoise and Western outfits. 
Such delicious food. 
Such a crowd. 
Such an outstanding, well-organized event!
Congratulations to Betsey Bayless, Dr. Arthur DeCabooter, Michael J. Fox, Alfredo Gutierrez, Merrill Mahaffey and Vernon D. Swaback.

Co-chairs Diana Smith and Pat Faur

Co-chairs Pat Faur and Diana Smith did a marvelous job!

Silent Auction co-ordinator Carolyn Hartman and Historical League President Mary Garbaciak

Cathy Shumard and Ruth Mcleod

Mary and Bill Parker, Lee Rogers, Al McLeod

Mary and Rob Ward with Greeter Renee Donnelly

Historymaker Jim Bruner to be honored Feb 8 at Gala

Jim Bruner, Scottsdale Charro for Life member since 1976, is receiving one of the biggest awards in his Lifetime-The Historical League of Arizona is honoring him as an Arizona History Maker at its 2014 Arizona History Makers “Turquoise and Tuxedos” Gala on Feb 8 at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa.

Among Jim’s peers also being recognized include former Arizona Governor Raúl Castro; former ASU President Lattie Coor; healthcare Philanthropists Joan and David Lincoln; ranchers Maxine and Chuck Lakin; artist Bill Owen and Arizona’s official state historian, Marshall Trimble.

The Scottsdale Charros commented, "We’re especially proud of Jim, and we’re delighted he is being recognized for his more than four decades of leadership that has made a dramatic impact on Scottsdale, the Valley of the Sun, and the State of Arizona.

Our Compadre Jim has a unique, strategic, and effective leadership style.  He’s a “go-to guy” who makes things happen. He’s unconcerned with who gets the credit; he’s just focused on the results. That’s why he’s so special, respected, and admired.

Jim has generously volunteered his leadership energies to policy-making boards and organizations that include his church, as well as healthcare, cultural, and philanthropic endeavors. An attorney and banker by profession, he also serves on a variety of governmental policy-making boards in non-elective positions.

Among his many affiliations, Jim has served as Chairman of the Arizona State Retirement System, Chairman of the Maricopa Board of Supervisors, member of the Scottsdale City Council, Chairman of the Scottsdale Healthcare Systems Board, Chairman of the Dioceses of Phoenix Finance Committee, Campaign Chairman of the Valley of the Sun United Way, President of the Scottsdale Boys & Girls Club, Chairman of the Scottsdale Museum of the West, board member of the Scottsdale Railroad and Mechanical Society (McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park).

Jim was also a founding board member for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) and the Scottsdale Cultural Council. Currently, Jim is a Trustee of the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, a member of the Board of Trustees at his alma mater Drake University, and member of the Fiesta Bowl Board of Directors."

Historymakers Gala meeting

Everything is coming together for the Historymakers Gala XI Turquoise and Tuxedos. It will be held Saturday, Feb 8 at Westin Kierland Resort in Scottsdale with 9 wonderful new inductees. Chairs Jeannine Moyle and Mary Parker presided over yesterdays Gala meeting.