Farenga and Farenga

At the annual luncheon last month, the Chamber recognized these 30-year members: Marana Unified School District, Marana Health Center, CalPortland–Rillito Plant, the Town of Marana, Trico Electric Cooperative, Inc., Comcast Business, Hensley Beverage Company, The Planning Center and Marana Stockyards and Livestock Market, Inc.Those organizations signed up when the first Chamber of Commerce in Marana was put together in 1987, a decade after the town itself was incorporated.  “It all started when Billy Schisler, then mayor for the Town of Marana, came up to me and he goes, ‘Would you start a chamber of commerce?’” said Phyllis M. Farenga, founder and first chamber director. “And I said ‘Of course I will, Billy.’ But then I had to figure out what a Chamber of Commerce was.”Schisler eventually involved Farenga in the town’s master plan and planning process, and more businesses got involved.Early marketing materials were basic and low-budget. A yellow and blue bumper sticker sported a large “MARANA” with an up arrow on the N and read “We’re really growing places!” The first business card for what was then called the Greater Marana/Avra Valley Chamber of Commerce featured a rising sun.An early map of the area given to members and visitors was hand-drawn. By contrast, today’s Official Chamber Map is a professionally-produced slick, full-color foldout full of pictures, information and advertising. It is updated and distributed annually.Kelle Maslyn, now director of community relations for Arizona State University, served as director from 1999-2003 when the Chamber had approximately 130 members.Over the years, the membership has grown to more than 550, and we are adding new businesses and organizations every month. I have had the honor of being a part of the growth as the president and CEO for the past 14 years. During that time, I have had the privilege of serving a number of great people, including many who have been a part of our organization for two decades or longer.At the annual lunche... (Inside Tucson Business)

The chief said that the event should help the community understand better the real presence of opioid drugs and the general substance abuse that takes place here. “It’s a major problem,” he said.The chief mentioned the availability of drugs here in New Canaan, which Paul Reinhardt later talked about, and also how so many people in New Canaan hide their troubles and distresses behind a veneer of beautiful outward appearances.If people could get over their false outward impressions “it would be monumental,” Krolikowski said.He mentioned the Aug. 21 arrest of a Pound Ridge man who was found in a Pine Street parking lot with 300 Xanax pills along with $1,400 in cash and marijuana. “Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression. … Misuse of which can cause addiction, overdose or death, according to drugs.com.” Among the charges against the man were sale of a controlled substance and sale of hallucinogen.Further testimony of the local drug abuse problem came when Krolikowski said that his officers recently saved a young man’s life by using Narcan when he was found in an drug overdose condition.The boy’s mother and father had approached the chief with thanks.[For full report from Overdose Awareness Day & Vigil, click here.]Present and showing support at the Overdose Awareness Day & Vigil were New Canaan Police Chief Leon Krolikowski, Capt. John DiFederico, Capt. Andrew Walsh, Ofc. Pollock, and Sgt. Farenga. — Greg Reilly photo... (New Canaan Advertiser)