Scottsdale Firefighters Association hosts Behind the Flames charity dinner
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The 24th annual Behind the Flames Scottsdale Firefighter Charities Dinner is 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, at STK Steakhouse in Scottsdale at 7134 E. Stetson Drive.
The event, organized by the Scottsdale Firefighters Association, is a tradition paying tribute to the bravery and resilience of Scottsdale firefighters and three extraordinary Valley residents who have shown remarkable courage in the face of challenges.
This year’s honorees are Billy Mayfair, Debra Ann Byrd, and Jaysha McClendon.
The evening will commence with a sponsor reception and cocktails at 5 p.m, followed by dinner.
Billy Mayfair, a highly accomplished professional golfer with five PGA Tour victories, will share his inspirational journey, having triumphed over personal adversities, including a battle with testicular cancer in 2006 and a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in 2019.
The following honoree is Debra Ann Byrd, an award-winning classically trained actress and producer, who will be recognized for her significant contributions to theater and her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity.
She has received numerous accolades, including the NAACP Shirley Farmer Woman of Excellence Award and the Josephine Abady Award for Excellence, and was recently named Writer-in-Residence at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and Artist-in-Residence Fellow at the Folger Institute.
Jaysha McClendon became a national champion in gymnastics at just 12-years-old. Hailing from Scottsdale, she has taken her talents nationwide, winning the USA Gymnastics Developmental National Championships in her level. She received gold on the uneven bars and silver on the balance beam.
“We are thrilled that Billy, Debra Ann, and Jaysha will be honored at this year’s Scottsdale Firefighter Charities Dinner,” said Brian Shedlock, of the Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association.
“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and everything we raise this night will go to help numerous Valley charities throughout the year. We know the night is going to be special, and we are so appreciative of everyone and the businesses who come out to support us.”
All proceeds from the event will benefit various Valley charities, making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Single tickets are available to purchase for $150. There are several sponsorship levels and there is also the opportunity to sponsor the attendance of a firefighter for $500.
