September President's Message

September, 2025

Here we are entering a new month once again…… September. We recently returned from a short visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Our original reservations were made months ago with the intent of visiting the North

Rim, one of our favorite places. But, as you are aware, the Dragon Bravo fire destroyed over 145,000 acres of beautiful country along with the North Rim Lodge, Campground and nearby cabins. Hence, a change in reservations was necessitated. Unfortunately, even the South Rim was devoid of many visitors, even though it has not been severely impacted by the devastation across the canyon. Many businesses are suffering due to lack of visitors, and we can only hope and pray that this area can recover, although it may be quite a while before we see restoration. Our hearts go out to those impacted along with the fire fighters who continue to battle this relenting blaze. Thankfully, at this point in time, the fire is 80% contained.

While doing research this past week (a diversion from the ongoing political disruptions that normally occur), some interesting facts about the State of Arizona caught my attention. Are you aware that Arizona has a State Seal? Our Seal is an official symbol of the State of Arizona, as defined in the state constitution. The Arizona State Seal symbolizes the state's key economic and natural features, including:

· Mountain Range with Rising Sun: Represents the state's dry, sunny climate and vast landscapes.

· Reservoir and Dam: Symbolizes Arizona's water resources and infrastructure.

· Irrigated Fields and Orchards: Represents the importance of farming and agriculture.

· Miner with Pick and Shovel: Highlights the state's mining industry.

· Grazing Cattle: Symbolizes the state's ranching and livestock enterprises.

Most notable is the Inscription above the design on the State Seal representing the State Motto – “Ditat Deus” – Latin for “God Enriches. ” The motto was coined by Richard Cunningham Mccormick in the 19th century, the first secretary and second governor of the Arizona Territory appointed by President Abraham Lincoln, and adopted as a motto in 1864. The motto’s significance lies in reflecting the historical importance of natural resources and divine providence in the development of Arizona, emphasizing the theme of wealth and sustenance derived from the land through human effort and divine blessing. “God Enriches" serves as a spiritual and historical statement, indicating that the riches found in the land are a gift from a higher power.

The Motto's Significance is described as:

· Divine Blessing: The motto acknowledges the divine role in providing the state's resources, suggesting that the wealth of Arizona is a gift to be.appreciated.

· Economic Development: "God Enriches" also reflects the economic prosperity brought about by the discovery and extraction of natural resources like minerals and precious metals, enriching the state and its people.

· Enduring Legacy: The continued use of "Ditat Deus" on the state seal signifies its lasting importance in the state's history and identity, connecting its past to its present.

The Grand Canyon National Park is one example of the value the State of Arizona provides to our nation and to the world as a lasting legacy. A segment of the visitors we encountered this past week were from foreign nations, who are taking advantage of a visit to this great state! While an overwhelming effort. is before us to rejuvenate the land damaged by the fire, we are encouraged that the land will heal, and God will continue to enrich our great state of Arizona.

This month also signifies the remembrance of the events that occurred on 9/11/2001. The Prescott Valley Healing Field of Northern Arizona provides a visible tribute to all of the victims and their families and friends. We will be featuring the PV Healing Field as our Caring for America organization for September at this month’s luncheon. To find out more about it, check out their website at https://www.healingfieldpv.com/.

Finally, we’d like to acknowledge the recent shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School on August 27th in Minneapolis by extending our heartfelt prayers to all who have been impacted and are suffering emotionally and physically. Our National Federation of Republican Women President, Julie Harris, has published a noteworthy response to this event and the impact of prayer at this crucial time. Please take a moment to read it below.

The Power of Prayer Under Attack