"The AZ Insider" with Kathy Shayna Shocket: Get the inside scoop on Arizona's social scene and celebrity news.
This week: Party at the Air Center with Scottsdale Charros and fly away private like a VIP.
The Scottsdale Charros volunteer organization has quite the charity party planned at the Scottsdale Air Center. Not only will partygoers have the chance to enjoy dinner, the libations and the music as they mingle amidst the private planes, but they’ll be able to step inside and tour two of the private jets. Both the luxurious planes being flown in for the big bash are also part of the silent auction. So for those who want to get onboard for the affair with an affordable $150 per person ticket, here’s the scoop...
Flight Options has donated five hours of flying time for six people for a trip in the silent auction to the winner’s choice destination. And AvantAir has donated a jet for a Napa Valley trip for four people. There’s also a helicopter ride scheduled that night for two guests. It’s the raffle prize. They’ll be whisked away during the party in style for an aerial tour of Phoenix, Scottsdale and the majestic McDowell Mountain Preserve. (The Preserve is one of this year’s beneficiaries of the event.)
Scottsdale Charros Craig Curtis, Mike Dickens and Bill Aust
I snapped this photo as some of the event committee members were toasting the upcoming event on Saturday, February 26, 2011. Scottsdale Charro David Westra is chairman of the fundraising event. It’s all part of the Scottsdale Charros’ 50th anniversary celebration, the San Francisco Giants’ World Championship, and the opening of Spring Training Baseball at Scottsdale Stadium. Often referred to as Scottsdale’s Goodwill Ambassadors, the Scottsdale Charros’ membership is made up of 40 civic and business leaders and more than 150 Life and Honorary Members.
The Scottsdale Charros organization has a long history of community service and close ties with major league baseball. Founded in March of 1961 as a special activity organization of the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, The Charros were specifically created “to promote special events in the City of Scottsdale.”
Attending a past fundraiser are Scottsdale Charros Ed Reading, Craig Curtis and Kevin Bollinger with former Scottsdale Mayor, Mary Manross
Each member makes a commitment to serve the group and the community for at least seven years, volunteering more than 240 hours per year. After serving out their seven-year commitment, active Charros have the option to go “life.” “Life” members continue to remain involved in the group’s activities. Currently there are over 150 Life and Honorary Charros.
It’s the first time the “First Pitch” fundraiser has been held at the hanger (in years past it was at Westworld). And by the way, congratulations to Bill Aust and his family. His grandchild, Catherine Rose Clancey was born on Valentine’s Day!
So, if you want to join the hundreds of partygoers, grab your boots, put on your blue jeans and cowboy hat and saddle up to enjoy the music by Mogollon. The monies raised will support the Miracle League of Arizona, Sonoran Preserve at McDowell Mountain and Scottsdale Charros Charities. For more information you can call 480-990-2977 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Coming UP:
The Scottsdale Charros are also partnering with Every Kid Counts to raise money for the 4th Annual Spring Training Charity Poker Tournament & Casino Night on March 28 at The White House in Old Town Scottsdale. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Scottsdale Charros Charities and Every Kid Counts.
Kathy Shayna Shocket is a Phoenix based writer. If you have a good item for The AZ Insider, you can email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
