At the March 2 Cottonwood City Council meeting, Mayor Ann Shaw read and presented a proclamation, designating the month of March as “American Red Cross Month.” Receiving the proclamation on behalf of the Northern Arizona Red Cross Chapter were: Janet Dubiel, blood services community volunteer leader, and Dave Dubiel, smoke alarm installer on the Verde Valley’s ‘Sound the Alarm’ team.
The proclamation read: “Whereas, in March we celebrate American Red Cross Month by honoring our neighbors who make its humanitarian mission possible in Cottonwood, Arizona. Every day, their acts of kindness change lives, bringing relief, comfort and hope when help can’t wait. This compassionate spirit runs deep in our community, just as it has for 145 years through the American Red Cross; and
Whereas, today those who serve with the Northern Arizona Chapter of the American Red Cross light the way during emergencies — whether it’s delivering shelter, food and comfort after disasters; providing a safe, lifesaving blood supply for patients facing conditions like cancer treatments, childbirth complications and traumatic injuries; assisting military members, veterans and their families with 24/7 global support; or empowering individuals with skills like first aid and CPR that save lives; and
Whereas, these collective efforts are a powerful reminder that the strength of our community lies in our shared commitment to one another. As we mark Red Cross Month, let’s celebrate our local heroes and resolve to continue lifting each other up, so no one faces an emergency alone.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ann Shaw, Mayor of the City of Cottonwood, and on behalf of the Cottonwood City Council, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as Red Cross Month in the City of Cottonwood, and I encourage all citizens of Cottonwood, Arizona, to reach out and support its humanitarian mission.”
In Dubiel’s remarks, she said, “Red Cross Month is more than a moment of recognition — it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together to care for one another. Here in Cottonwood, ordinary people make an extraordinary difference every day — whether they’re rolling up their sleeves to give blood, opening their hearts to make a generous donation, or giving their time to support neighbors in need. In life’s most difficult moments, this compassion brings relief and hope, strengthening the bonds that unite our community. Please consider this occasion as a symbol and reminder of our promise to the people of Cottonwood that the American Red Cross will always be there in times of need.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities in your community contact Denny Pressier at (928) 606-2634. The next blood drive in Cottonwood is on Saturday, April 25, at the American Legion Post 25 located at 480 S. Calvary Way. March donors will receive a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card. To learn more about donating blood and/or make an appointment to donate blood at any of our blood drives, visit redcross.org/blood or call (800) 733-2767.
