Richard Volpe
As we approach the holiday season, our club moves into new challenges with its eyes on the future and continuing trying to help those in need with the support we can provide. Wrapping up the year, it’s time to acknowledge all that has been done over the years in the support of many as we prepare to move on to a new year with a new beginning. One of our final get-togethers for the year will feature a Holiday of Celebration. The club will host our last meeting of the year with its annual Christmas Celebration on Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. at Floridino’s for a few hours of good conversation and fine food. For the current membership, the club will be absorbing the cost of this special occasion, and for an additional $25, a member can add on a guest to enjoy the day. The meals, along with some extras, will be provided, as mentioned above, by the club. Floridino’s does have a full-service bar, and their staff will be available to help if a specialty drink is desired from the bar area.
As a club, one of the Desert Navy’s primary goals is to help support those in need due to an unexpected problem or hardship, and help is only a phone call away. The club continues to store and maintain several warehouse facilities that house an extensive assortment of medical equipment and is happy to help anybody when there is a need. Among the items in storage are a variety of motorized units that are available for those who may have a need. For a more detailed description of what is available if you have an interest, please contact Rich Volpe for that or support, if required. His telephone number is listed below.
There are a few major changes that all members may want to add to their calendar for future reference. These pertain to meeting locations and times for the Tuesday lunches, some of which have already taken place. In all cases, at present, meetings and Tuesday lunches have moved over to the SunBird Community Center. Monthly meetings will continue to be on the third Friday of the month starting at 11 a.m. in the Lakeview Room. They are scheduled throughout the year from September until May. Lunches are now scheduled on each Tuesday, barring conflicts, at 1 p.m. at the SunBird Restaurant located on the upper level of the Community Center. There is an elevator available for those who have a need.
The Desert Navy welcomes all veterans who served time in the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines. New members are always welcome. For additional information regarding membership, medical supplies, and club activities, feel free to call Rich Volpe. He can be reached at 480-802-2532, and I’m sure he would be happy to talk to you. Enjoy this fine time of the year when the weather is so envied by many and the spirit of the holiday season with the new life it brings into the area in so many ways.