Dog Park Recognizes Volunteers, 2022 Projects, and 2023 Board Members

Select members of the 2023 leadership team include (left to right) Cathy Lee, Ron Luning, Merri Westphall, Kris Letterman, Jerry Hedberg, Mel Ingold, and Suzanne Richards. (Photo by Anne Quinn-Diment)

Anne Quinn-Diment

Board members and volunteers were recognized, park improvements were summarized, and the 2023 board was elected at the SaddleBrooke Dog Park Association’s annual membership meeting on Feb. 8.

Newly elected Board President Ron Luning expressed appreciation for the leadership and dedication of last year’s board members and volunteers who worked tirelessly to maintain and improve the park. Luning praised the years of service by former President Susan Williams, Vice President Nadine McAfee, Publicity Coordinator Linda Lyon, and ex-Maintenance Director Jim Vavra. “Their contributions made an incredible difference in the lives of dogs and dog owners in the SaddleBrooke community,” said Luning.

2022 accomplishments included expanding Riley’s Place for senior and other dogs needing less interaction, creating a bridge for safer passage over the monsoon water draining ditch, starting a sprinkler project to expand the park’s sandy side, placing rocks on the slope between the park and softball field, raising funds for the Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter & Rescues, holding fun events for member dogs and their humans, and more.

In 2023 the dog park will be led by President Ron Luning, Vice President Suzanne Richards, Treasurer Kris Letterman, Secretary Pat Tarr, Membership Cathy Lee, Publicity Anne Quinn-Diment, Safety Mel Ingold, Park Maintenance Jerry Hedberg, Database Merri Westphall, and Webmaster Karen Brooks.

The SaddleBrooke Dog Park was created to provide member dogs with a safe space to exercise off-leash and socialize. The member-funded park includes separate areas for small dogs and large dogs, as well as a fenced area for dogs who prefer less interaction. All member dogs must have proof of current rabies vaccination.

The park is located at 39984 S. Sand Crest Drive in SaddleBrooke at the intersection of S. Sand Crest Drive and S. Clubhouse Drive. For more information, visit saddlebrookedogpark.com.