Northwest Valley Democrats President Maria Bears welcomed all members and guests to the March 12 Club meeting, after which Treasurer Jan Martinez presented a brief financial report, including a new high total number of paid members for the year.

Bears then provided a brief background as she introduced the night’s guest speaker, Sandy Bahr, director of the Grand Canyon Chapter of the Sierra Club. She has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and many years of experience in working with energy and environmental issues.

Bahr began her presentation by addressing the core mission of the Sierra Club, a national, nonprofit, grass roots organization committed to protecting the environment. It has a history in defending natural resources and protecting undeveloped lands.

Bahr focused on what current activities the Sierra Club is involved with now. It works with state and federal legislators and lobbyists to help ensure adequate legislation is introduced or remains in place to preserve wild natural lands. Much of Arizona is either state or national parks, forests and dedicated national monuments. Sierra Club works to preserve and protect these public lands and their heritage for future generations. She urged everyone to become involved in activities to help influence legislators to better protect the environment, wild lands and areas that are home to Indigenous people. Local rallies are often held outside the offices of our nearby politicians and at the state capitol. Bahr urged people to be present to get their voices heard.

Prior to closing the meeting, Bears again encouraged members to become involved in the political process, as the next elections draw closer each day. Additional information about local positions needing volunteers was available at the meeting.

The Northwest Valley Democrats meet 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month in the Sun City West Foundation Building’s Quail Room. All members and their progressive- minded guests are invited to attend.

Visit northwestvalleydemocrat.com/index.html for more information.